Display device

Abstract

A display device is disclosed, the display device comprising: a display panel including a light emitting element and an encapsulation layer covering the light emitting element; and an input sensing unit disposed on the display panel. The input sensing unit comprises: a first conductive pattern disposed on the encapsulation layer and including a first portion and a second portion extending from the first portion; an insulating layer covering the first conductive pattern; and a second conductive pattern disposed on the insulating layer and including a third portion overlapping at least a portion of the first portion of the first conductive pattern and a fourth portion extending from the third portion. The width of the first portion is smaller than the width of the second portion.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2018-0124670, filed on October 18, 2018, which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes as if fully set forth herein. Technical Field

[0002] Exemplary embodiments of the invention relate generally to a display device, and more particularly, to an input sensing unit and a display device including the same. Background Art

[0003] Recently, display devices have been developed in the direction of having an information input function in addition to an image display function. The information input function of the display device may be implemented as an input sensing unit for receiving a user's touch or a touch by a predetermined tool.

[0004] An input sensing unit (such as a touch sensor) may be attached to one side of the display panel that implements the function of displaying an image, or may be formed integrally with the display panel. A user may input information by pressing or touching the input sensing unit while viewing an image implemented in the display panel.

[0005] The input sensing unit can be applied not only to flat panel displays but also to flexible display devices, curved display devices, foldable display devices, bendable display devices, and the like.

[0006] Research is being conducted to reduce the thickness of a display panel and a touch sensor and prevent the occurrence of micro resistance and short circuits between upper and lower conductive lines that cause malfunction of an input sensing unit, reduced sensitivity, and thereby freely deform the shape of a display device.

[0007] The above information disclosed in this Background section is only for understanding the background of the inventive concept and therefore it may contain information that does not constitute prior art. Summary of the invention

[0008] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention provide a display device that reduces an overlapped area between a first conductive pattern and a second conductive pattern.

[0009] Additional features of the inventive concepts will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the inventive concepts.

[0010] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a display device, which includes: a display panel including a light-emitting element and an encapsulation layer covering the light-emitting element; and an input sensing unit disposed on the display panel. The input sensing unit includes: a first conductive pattern disposed on the encapsulation layer, the first conductive pattern including a first portion and a second portion extending from the first portion; an insulating layer covering the first conductive pattern; and a second conductive pattern disposed on the insulating layer, the second conductive pattern including a third portion overlapping at least a portion of the first portion of the first conductive pattern and a fourth portion extending from the third portion. The width of the first portion is smaller than the width of the second portion.

[0011] The width of the third portion may be smaller than the width of the fourth portion.

[0012] The second portion may not overlap the second conductive pattern, and the fourth portion may not overlap the first conductive pattern.

[0013] The first conductive pattern and the second conductive pattern may correspond to a plurality of mesh lines defining a plurality of mesh holes.

[0014] The first portion and the third portion may be defined as an area included in an intersection region where the first conductive pattern and the second conductive pattern intersect, and an area of ​​the first portion of the first conductive pattern included in the intersection region may be smaller than an area of ​​the second portion included in a unit region having the same size as the intersection region.

[0015] An area of ​​a third portion of the second conductive pattern included in the intersection region may be smaller than an area of ​​a fourth portion included in the cell region.

[0016] The second conductive pattern may include a first sensing electrode including first sensing cells and a first connection member connecting the first sensing cells adjacent to each other, the first sensing electrode extending in a first direction; and second sensing cells arranged in a second direction crossing the first direction.

[0017] The first conductive pattern may include a second connection part connecting the second sensing cells adjacent to each other to form a second sensing electrode, wherein the second sensing cells and the second connection part are connected through a contact hole passing through the insulating layer.

[0018] A portion of the second connection member overlaps a portion of the first sensing unit adjacent to the second connection member.

[0019] The second connection member may include a first portion and a second portion. The first sensing unit overlapping the second connection member may include a third portion overlapping the second connection member and a fourth portion not overlapping the second connection member.

[0020] A width of a portion of the second connection member overlapping the second sensing unit may be greater than a width of the first portion.

[0021] A width of a portion of the second connection member overlapping the second sensing unit may be equal to a width of the second portion.

[0022] A portion of the second connection member may overlap a portion of the first connection member.

[0023] The second connection member may include a first portion and a second portion, and the first connection member may include a third portion overlapping the first portion of the second connection member and a fourth portion not overlapping the second connection member.

[0024] The width of the third portion may be smaller than the width of the fourth portion.

[0025] Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a display device, which includes: a display panel including a light-emitting element and an encapsulation layer covering the light-emitting element; and an input sensing unit disposed on the display panel. The input sensing unit may include: a first conductive pattern disposed on the encapsulation layer, the first conductive pattern including a first portion and a second portion extending from the first portion; an insulating layer covering the first conductive pattern; and a second conductive pattern disposed on the insulating layer, the second conductive pattern including a third portion overlapping at least a portion of the first portion of the first conductive pattern and a fourth portion extending from the third portion. The width of the third portion is smaller than the width of the fourth portion.

[0026] The width of the first portion may be smaller than the width of the second portion.

[0027] The second conductive pattern may include: a first sensing electrode including first sensing units and a first connecting part connecting the first sensing units adjacent to each other and extending in a first direction; and second sensing units arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The first conductive pattern may include a second connecting part connecting the second sensing units adjacent to each other to form a second sensing electrode, and the second sensing unit is connected to the second connecting part through a contact hole passing through the insulating layer.

[0028] A portion of the second connection member may overlap a portion of the first sensing unit adjacent to the second connection member.

[0029] A portion of the second connection member may overlap a portion of the first connection member.

[0030] Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a display device, which includes: a display panel including a light-emitting element and an encapsulation layer covering the light-emitting element; and an input sensing unit disposed on the display panel. The input sensing unit may include: a second connection component disposed on the encapsulation layer; an insulating layer covering the second connection component; a first sensing electrode disposed on the insulating layer, including a first sensing unit and a first connection component connecting the first sensing units adjacent to each other, and extending in a first direction; and a second sensing electrode disposed on the same layer as the first sensing electrode, and including a second sensing unit arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction and not contacting the first sensing electrode. The second sensing electrode may be formed by connecting the second sensing units adjacent to each other via a second connection component, and the width of the first portion of the second connection component including a portion overlapping the first sensing electrode is smaller than the width of the second portion extending from the first portion.

[0031] Each of the first sensing electrode and the second sensing electrode may include a plurality of grid lines defining a plurality of grid holes.

[0032] The first portion of the second connecting member may overlap the first connecting member.

[0033] The first connection member may include a third portion overlapping the first portion of the second connection member and a fourth portion extending from the third portion, and a width of the third portion may be smaller than a width of the fourth portion.

[0034] The first portion of the second connection member may overlap the first sensing unit adjacent to the second connection member.

[0035] The adjacent first sensing unit may include a third portion overlapping the first portion and a fourth portion extending from the third portion, and a width of the third portion may be smaller than a width of the fourth portion.

[0036] A width of a portion of the second connection part overlapping the second sensing electrode may be greater than a width of a first portion of the second connection part overlapping the first sensing electrode.

[0037] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. They illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention and together with the description serve to explain the inventive concept.

[0039] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2C is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an example of a display panel included in a display device.

[0042] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 1 A plan view of an example of an input sensing unit included in a display device.

[0043] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 4 An enlarged view of an example of the AA portion of the input sensing unit.

[0044] Figure 6 It is schematically shown Figure 5 FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an example of an II' portion of an input sensing unit.

[0045] Fig. 7A , Figure 7B , Figure 7C and Fig.7D It is schematically shown Figure 5 FIG. 1 is an enlarged view of an example of the BB portion of the input sensing unit.

[0046] Figure 8 It is schematically shown Figure 5 FIG. 1 is an enlarged view of an example of the BB portion of the input sensing unit.

[0047] Fig.9A and Fig. 9B It is schematically shown Figure 5 FIG. 1 is an enlarged view of an example of the BB portion of the input sensing unit.

[0048] Fig.10 It is shown Figure 4 An enlarged view of an example of the AA portion of the input sensing unit.

[0049] Fig.11A , Fig. 11B and Fig. 11C It is schematically shown Fig.10 An enlarged view of an example of the CC portion of the input sensing unit.

[0050] Fig.12 It is shown Figure 1 A plan view of an example of an input sensing unit included in a display device.

[0051] Fig.13 and Fig.14 It is schematically shown Fig.12 FIG. 1 is an enlarged view of an example of a DD portion of an input sensing unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] In the following description, for the purpose of explanation, many specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of various exemplary embodiments of the invention. "Embodiment" as used herein is a non-limiting example of a device or method using one or more inventive concepts disclosed herein. However, it is apparent that various exemplary embodiments may be practiced without these specific details or in the case of one or more equivalent arrangements. In other cases, in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring various exemplary embodiments, known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form. In addition, various exemplary embodiments may be different, but need not be exclusive. For example, without departing from the inventive concept, the specific shape, construction and characteristics of the exemplary embodiment may be used or implemented in another exemplary embodiment.

[0053] Unless otherwise specified, the exemplary embodiments shown will be understood as providing exemplary features of details that may be varied in some ways in which the inventive concept may be implemented in practice. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the features, components, modules, layers, films, panels, regions and / or aspects, etc. (hereinafter, individually or collectively referred to as "elements") of the various embodiments may be further combined, separated, interchanged and / or rearranged without departing from the inventive concept.

[0054] The use of cross hatching and / or shading is usually provided in the drawings to make the boundaries between adjacent elements clear. Thus, unless otherwise specified, the presence and absence of cross hatching or shading do not express or indicate any preference or requirement for the specific material, material properties, size, ratio, commonality between the elements shown and / or any other characteristics, attributes, properties, etc. of the elements. In addition, in the drawings, the size and relative size of the elements may be exaggerated for clarity and / or descriptive purposes. When the exemplary embodiments may be implemented differently, the specific process sequence may be performed differently from the described sequence. For example, two continuously described processes may be performed substantially simultaneously or in an order opposite to the described sequence. In addition, the same reference numerals represent the same elements.

[0055] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on" another element or layer, "connected to" or "bonded to" another element or layer, the element or layer may be directly on, directly connected to or directly bonded to the other element or layer, or there may be an intermediate element or layer. However, when an element or layer is referred to as being "directly on" another element or layer, "directly connected to" or "directly bonded to" another element or layer, there is no intermediate element or layer. For this reason, the term "connection" may refer to a physical connection, an electrical connection and / or a fluid connection with or without an intermediate element. In addition, the D1 axis, the D2 axis and the D3 axis are not limited to the three axes of a rectangular coordinate system (such as an x-axis, a y-axis and a z-axis), but may be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the D1 axis, the D2 axis and the D3 axis may be perpendicular to each other, or may represent different directions that are not perpendicular to each other. For the purpose of this disclosure, "at least one of X, Y, and Z" and "at least one selected from the group consisting of X, Y, and Z" may be interpreted as any combination of only X, only Y, only Z, or two or more of X, Y, and Z, such as XYZ, XYY, YZ, and ZZ. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the relevant listed items.

[0056] Although the terms "first", "second", etc. may be used herein to describe various types of elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element from another element. Therefore, the first element discussed below may be named as the second element without departing from the disclosed teachings.

[0057] For descriptive purposes, spatially relative terms such as "under," "below," "below," "down," "above," "up," "above," "higher," and "side" (e.g., as in "sidewall") may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element to another element as shown in the accompanying drawings. Spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use, operation, and / or manufacture in addition to the orientation depicted in the accompanying drawings. For example, if the device in the accompanying drawings is flipped, an element described as "under" or "beneath" other elements or features will subsequently be positioned as "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "under" may encompass both above and below orientations. In addition, the device may be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations), and as such, the spatially relative descriptors used herein are interpreted accordingly.

[0058] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments, and are not intended to be limited. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "one", "one (kind / person)" and "said (the)" are also intended to include plural forms. In addition, when the term "comprises" and its variations and / or "includes" and its variations are used in this specification, it is explained that there are stated features, integral bodies, steps, operations, elements, components and / or their groups, but it is not excluded that there are or add one or more other features, integral bodies, steps, operations, elements, components and / or their groups. It should also be noted that, as used herein, the terms "substantially", "approximately" and other similar terms are used as approximate terms rather than as terms of degree, so that they are used to explain the inherent deviations of measured values, calculated values ​​and / or provided values ​​that will be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0059] Various exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional illustrations and / or exploded illustrations that are schematic diagrams of idealized exemplary embodiments and / or intermediate structures. As such, variations in the shapes of the illustrations, such as those caused by manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances, are expected to occur. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein should not necessarily be interpreted as being limited to the shapes of the specifically illustrated regions, but will include deviations in shape caused by, for example, manufacturing. In this manner, the regions shown in the drawings may be schematic in nature, and the shapes of these regions may not reflect the actual shapes of the regions of the device, and as such, are not necessarily intended to be limiting.

[0060] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure is a part. Terms (such as those defined in general dictionaries) should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and should not be interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined as such herein.

[0061] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail. The same reference numerals are used for the same constituent elements in the drawings, and repeated descriptions of the same constituent elements are omitted.

[0062] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Reference Figure 1, the display device DD may display the image IM by using the display surface DD-IS. The display surface DD-IS may be parallel to a plane defined by the first direction axis DR1 and the second direction axis DR2. The normal direction of the display surface DD-IS (ie, the thickness direction of the display device DD) may be indicated by the third direction axis DR3.

[0064] The front (or top) and the back (or bottom) of each component, layer or unit described below can be distinguished by the third directional axis DR3. However, the first directional axis to the third directional axis DR1, DR2 and DR3 are only examples, and the directions indicated by the first directional axis to the third directional axis DR1, DR2 and DR3 are only relative concepts and can be converted into other directions. Hereinafter, the first direction to the third direction may be the directions indicated by the first directional axis to the third directional axis DR1, DR2 and DR3, respectively, and may refer to the same reference numerals as the reference numerals of the first directional axis to the third directional axis DR1, DR2 and DR3.

[0065] exist Figure 1 The display device DD shown in the figure may have a flat display surface. The inventive concept is not limited thereto, and the display device DD according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention may have various types of display surfaces capable of displaying images, such as a curved display surface or a stereoscopic display surface. In the case where the display device DD according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention has a stereoscopic display surface, as an example, the stereoscopic display surface may include a plurality of display areas positioned in different directions. The stereoscopic display surface may be implemented as a polygonal column display surface.

[0066] The display device DD may be a flexible display device. For example, the display device DD may be applied to a foldable display device, a bendable display device, a rollable display device, etc. The inventive concept is not limited thereto, and the display device DD may be a rigid display device.

[0067] exist Figure 1 The display device DD shown in FIG. 1 shows a display device DD that can be applied to a mobile phone device. However, this is an example, and the display device DD can be applied not only to large electronic devices such as televisions, monitors, and electronic billboards, but also to small electronic devices such as tablet computers, navigation devices, game devices, and smart watches. In addition, the display device DD can be applied to wearable electronic devices such as head-mounted displays.

[0068] like Figure 1As shown in , the display surface DD-IS of the display device DD may include a display area DD-DA displaying an image IM and a non-display area DD-NDA adjacent to the display area DD-DA. The non-display area DD-NDA is an area where the image IM is not displayed. The non-display area DD-NDA may be disposed outside the display area DD-DA.

[0069] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C The stacking relationship of the functional panels and / or functional units constituting the display device DD is simply shown.

[0071] Reference FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C , the display device DD may include a display panel DP, input sensing units ISL and ISL-1, and window units WL and WP. The display device DD may further include an anti-reflection panel RPP.

[0072] At least some of the display panel DP, the input sensing units ISL and ISL-1, and the window units WL and WP may be formed by a continuous process, or may be bonded together by using an adhesive member. The adhesive member may include a conventional glue or adhesive. Figure 2A and Figure 2C The bonding member shown in may be, for example, an optically transparent bonding member ("optically clear adhesive" or "OCA").

[0073] In an exemplary embodiment, the input sensing units ISL and ISL- 1 may sense a contact or input to the display surface DD-IS of the display device DD by an external medium such as a hand or a pen.

[0074] exist FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C , the corresponding configuration formed by a continuous process with the input sensing units ISL and ISL-1 and the other configurations of the window units WL and WP is represented as a "layer". The corresponding configuration combined with the other configurations of the touch sensor and the window unit by an adhesive member is represented as a "panel". The panel may include a substrate layer providing a substrate surface, for example, a synthetic resin film, a composite material film, a glass substrate, etc., but the "layer" may not include the substrate layer. In other words, the unit represented as a "layer" may be arranged on a substrate plane provided by other units.

[0075] The input sensing units ISL and ISL- 1 and the window units WL and WP are represented by an input sensing panel ISL- 1 and a window panel WP or an input sensing layer ISL and a window layer WL, respectively, according to the presence or absence of a base layer.

[0076] like Figure 2AAs shown in , the display device DD may include a display panel DP, an input sensing layer ISL, an anti-reflection panel RPP and a window panel WP.

[0077] In an exemplary embodiment, the input sensing layer ISL may be directly disposed on the display panel DP. In this specification, "B structure is directly disposed on A structure" means that no separate adhesive layer or adhesive member is disposed between A structure and B structure. The B structure may be formed on the substrate surface provided by the A structure through a continuous process after the A structure is formed.

[0078] The display panel DP and the input sensing layer ISL disposed on the display panel DP may be defined together as a display module DM. An optically transparent adhesive member OCA may be disposed between the display module DM and the anti-reflection panel RPP and between the anti-reflection panel RPP and the window panel WP, respectively.

[0079] The input sensing layer ISL may be disposed inside the display panel DP, or disposed on the display panel DP.

[0080] In an exemplary embodiment, the display panel DP may be a light emitting display panel, but the display panel DP is not particularly limited thereto. For example, the display panel DP may be an organic light emitting display panel or a quantum dot light emitting display panel.

[0081] The anti-reflection panel RPP reduces reflection of external light incident from above the window panel WP. In an exemplary embodiment, the anti-reflection panel RPP may include a retarder and a polarizer. The retarder may be a film type or a liquid crystal coating type, and may include a λ / 2 retarder and / or a λ / 4 retarder. The polarizer may also be a film type or a liquid crystal coating type.

[0082] In an exemplary embodiment, the anti-reflection panel RPP may include a color filter. The color filter has a predetermined arrangement. The arrangement of the color filter may be determined in consideration of the luminous color of the pixels included in the display panel DP. The anti-reflection panel RPP may further include a black matrix adjacent to the color filter.

[0083] In an exemplary embodiment, the anti-reflection panel RPP may include a destructive structure. For example, the destructive structure may include a first reflective layer and a second reflective layer disposed on different layers. The first reflected light reflected from the first reflective layer and the second reflected light reflected from the second reflective layer may offset each other, thereby reducing the external light reflectance.

[0084] In an exemplary embodiment, the window panel WP may include a base film WP-BS and a light blocking pattern WP-BZ. The base film WP-BS may include a glass substrate or a synthetic resin film, etc. The base film WP-BS is not limited to a single layer. The base film WP-BS may include two or more films combined with an adhesive member.

[0085] The light blocking pattern WP-BZ partially overlaps the base film WP-BS. The light blocking pattern WP-BZ may be disposed on the rear side of the base film WP-BS to define a frame area of ​​the display device DD, that is, a non-display area DD-NDA (see FIG. Figure 1 ).

[0086] Although not shown separately, the window panel WP may further include a functional coating layer disposed on the top surface of the base film WP-BS. The functional coating layer may include an anti-fingerprint layer, an anti-reflection layer, and / or a hard coating layer, and the like.

[0087] As in Figure 2B As shown in , the display device DD may include a display panel DP, an input sensing layer ISL, an anti-reflection layer RPL, and a window layer WL. The bonding member may be omitted from the display device DD, and then the input sensing layer ISL, the anti-reflection layer RPL, and the window layer WL may be formed on a substrate surface provided by the display panel DP in a continuous process. The stacking order of the input sensing layer ISL and the anti-reflection layer RPL may be changed.

[0088] like Figure 2C As shown in , the display device DD may not include a separate anti-reflection unit. In an exemplary embodiment, the display device DD may include a display panel DP, an input sensing panel ISL-1, and a window panel WP. Here, the input sensing panel ISL-1 may also have an anti-reflection function.

[0089] exist FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C , the input sensing unit is shown as being overlapped with the display panel DP as a whole. However, this is an example, and the input sensing unit may instead overlap only a portion of the display area DD-DA, or may overlap only the non-display area DD-NDA. The input sensing unit may be a touch sensing panel for sensing the touch of a user, or a fingerprint sensing panel for sensing fingerprint information of a user's finger. The pitch or width of the sensing electrodes described below may vary depending on the use of the input sensing unit.

[0090] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an example of a display panel included in a display device.

[0091] Reference Figures 1 to 3 , the display panel DP may include a base layer BL, a circuit element layer DP-CL, a display element layer DP-OLED and an encapsulation layer TFE.

[0092] The base layer BL may include a synthetic resin film. The synthetic resin film may be a polyimide resin film, and the material of the synthetic resin film is not particularly limited. In addition, the base layer BL may include a glass substrate, a metal substrate, or an organic / inorganic composite material substrate.

[0093] The circuit element layer DP-CL may include a circuit element and at least one insulating layer. Hereinafter, the insulating layer included in the circuit element layer DP-CL is referred to as an intermediate insulating layer. The intermediate insulating layer may include at least one intermediate inorganic layer and at least one intermediate organic layer. The circuit element may include a signal line and a pixel driving circuit, etc.

[0094] The circuit element layer DP-CL may include a buffer layer BFL, a first intermediate inorganic layer 10, a second intermediate inorganic layer 20, and an intermediate organic layer 30, each of which is an inorganic layer, and the intermediate organic layer 30 is an organic layer. The materials of the inorganic layer and the organic layer are not particularly limited. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the buffer layer BFL may be provided or omitted.

[0095] The semiconductor pattern of the first transistor T1 (hereinafter, the first semiconductor pattern OSP1) and the semiconductor pattern of the second transistor T2 (hereinafter, the second semiconductor pattern OSP2) are disposed on the buffer layer BFL. The first semiconductor pattern OSP1 and the second semiconductor pattern OSP2 may be formed of at least one selected from amorphous silicon, polysilicon, and metal oxide semiconductor.

[0096] The first intermediate inorganic layer 10 is disposed on the first and second semiconductor patterns OSP1 and OSP2 . The control electrode of the first transistor T1 (hereinafter, the first control electrode GE1 ) and the control electrode of the second transistor T2 (hereinafter, the second control electrode GE2 ) are disposed on the first intermediate inorganic layer 10 .

[0097] The second intermediate inorganic layer 20 covering the first control electrode GE1 and the second control electrode GE2 may be disposed on the first intermediate inorganic layer 10. An input electrode (hereinafter, first input electrode DE1) and an output electrode (hereinafter, first output electrode SE1) of the first transistor T1 and an input electrode (hereinafter, second input electrode DE2) and an output electrode (hereinafter, second output electrode SE2) of the second transistor T2 are disposed on the second intermediate inorganic layer 20.

[0098] The first input electrode DE1 and the first output electrode SE1 may be connected to the first semiconductor pattern OSP1 through the first and second contact holes CH1 and CH2 passing through the first and second intermediate inorganic layers 10 and 20, respectively. The second input electrode DE2 and the second output electrode SE2 may be connected to the second semiconductor pattern OSP2 through the third and fourth contact holes CH3 and CH4 passing through the first and second intermediate inorganic layers 10 and 20, respectively. In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the first transistor T1 and the second transistor T2 may be transformed into a bottom gate structure.

[0099] The intermediate organic layer 30 covering the first input electrode DE1, the second input electrode DE2, the first output electrode SE1, and the second output electrode SE2 is disposed on the second intermediate inorganic layer 20. The intermediate organic layer 30 may provide a flat surface.

[0100] The display element layer DP-OLED is disposed on the middle organic layer 30. The display element layer DP-OLED may include a light emitting element. For example, the light emitting element may include an organic light emitting diode OLED.

[0101] The display element layer DP-OLED may include a pixel defining layer PDL and an organic light emitting diode OLED. The pixel defining layer PDL may include an organic material. The first electrode AE ​​may be disposed on the intermediate organic layer 30. The first electrode AE ​​may be connected to the second output electrode SE2 through a fifth contact hole CH5 passing through the intermediate organic layer 30. An opening area OP is formed in the pixel defining layer PDL. The opening area OP of the pixel defining layer PDL may expose at least a portion of the first electrode AE. In an exemplary embodiment, the first electrode AE ​​may be an anode of the organic light emitting diode OLED. However, this is an example, and the first electrode AE ​​may be a cathode.

[0102] The pixel may be arranged in the display area DD-DA. The display area DD-DA may include a light emitting area PXA and a non-light emitting area NPXA adjacent to the light emitting area PXA. The non-light emitting area NPXA may surround the light emitting area PXA. The light emitting area PXA may correspond to an opening area OP of a pixel defining layer PDL. The non-light emitting area NPXA may correspond to the pixel defining layer PDL.

[0103] The hole control layer HCL may be provided in common for the light emitting area PXA and the non-light emitting area NPXA. Although not separately shown, a common layer such as the hole control layer HCL may be formed in common for pixels.

[0104] The emission layer EML may be disposed on the hole control layer HCL. The emission layer EML may be disposed in a region corresponding to the open region OP. The emission layer EML may generate light of a predetermined color.

[0105] In an exemplary embodiment, the emission layer EML may be commonly provided for each pixel. At this time, the emission layer EML may generate white light. In addition, the emission layer EML may have a multi-layer structure called a series connection.

[0106] The electron control layer ECL may be disposed on the emission layer EML. Although not separately shown, the electron control layer ECL may be commonly formed for the pixels.

[0107] The second electrode CE is disposed on the electron control layer ECL. The second electrode CE is commonly disposed for the pixels. In an exemplary embodiment, the second electrode CE may be a cathode.

[0108] The encapsulation layer TFE may be disposed on the second electrode CE. The encapsulation layer TFE is disposed commonly for the pixels. The encapsulation layer TFE may seal the display element layer DP-OLED. The encapsulation layer TFE may include at least one insulating layer. The encapsulation layer TFE according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention may include at least one inorganic layer (hereinafter, encapsulation inorganic layer). In an exemplary embodiment, the encapsulation layer TFE may include at least one organic layer (hereinafter, encapsulation organic layer) and at least one encapsulation inorganic layer.

[0109] The encapsulated inorganic layer can protect the display element layer DP-OLED from moisture or oxygen, and the encapsulated organic layer can protect the display element layer DP-OLED from foreign substances such as dust particles. The encapsulated inorganic layer may include a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer, etc., but the inventive concept is not limited thereto, and the encapsulated inorganic layer may be formed of an inorganic material capable of protecting the display element layer DP-OLED from moisture or oxygen. The encapsulated organic layer may include an acryl organic layer, but the inventive concept is not limited thereto, and the encapsulated organic layer may be formed of an organic material capable of protecting the display element layer DP-OLED from foreign substances such as dust particles.

[0110] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 1 A plan view of an example of an input sensing unit included in a display device.

[0111] Reference Figure 4 The input sensing unit ISL may include first sensing electrodes IE1-1 to IE1-5, first signal lines SL1-1 to SL1-5 connected to the first sensing electrodes IE1-1 to IE1-5, second sensing electrodes IE2-1 to IE2-4, and second signal lines SL2-1 to SL2-4 connected to the second sensing electrodes IE2-1 to IE2-4.

[0112] In an exemplary embodiment, the input sensing unit ISL may further include an optical dummy electrode disposed in a boundary region between the first sensing electrodes IE1 - 1 to IE1 - 5 and the second sensing electrodes IE2 - 1 to IE2 - 4 .

[0113] The first sensing electrodes IE1-1 to IE1-5 and the second sensing electrodes IE2-1 to IE2-4 may cross each other. The first sensing electrodes IE1-1 to IE1-5 are arranged in the second direction DR2, and each of the first sensing electrodes IE1-1 to IE1-5 has a shape extending in the first direction DR1.

[0114] Each of the first sensing electrodes IE1-1 to IE1-5 includes a first sensing unit SP1 and a first connection part CP1. Each of the second sensing electrodes IE2-1 to IE2-4 includes a second sensing unit SP2 and a second connection part CP2.

[0115] In an exemplary embodiment, if Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 , the first sensing electrodes IE1-1 to IE1-5 and the second sensing electrodes IE2-1 to IE2-4 may be formed in a mesh pattern. Therefore, the distance between these electrodes and the display panel DP (see FIG. 1 ) may be reduced. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C )’s parasitic capacitance between the electrodes.

[0116] Since the first sensing electrodes IE1-1 to IE1-5 and the second sensing electrodes IE2-1 to IE2-4 do not overlap the light emitting region PXA, the first sensing electrodes IE1-1 to IE1-5 and the second sensing electrodes IE2-1 to IE2-4 are not visible to a user of the display device DD.

[0117] The first sensing electrodes IE1-1 to IE1-5 and the second sensing electrodes IE2-1 to IE2-4 having a mesh shape may include silver, aluminum, copper, chromium, nickel, titanium, or the like, but the inventive concept is not limited thereto.

[0118] In one first sensing electrode, the first sensing cells SP1 may be arranged in the first direction DR1, and in one second sensing electrode, the second sensing cells SP2 may be arranged in the second direction DR2. Each of the first connection parts CP1 may be connected to an adjacent first sensing cell SP1, and each of the second connection parts CP2 may be connected to an adjacent second sensing cell SP2.

[0119] In an exemplary embodiment, the first connection part CP1, the first sensing unit SP1, and the second sensing unit SP2 may be disposed on the same layer, and the second connection part CP2 may be disposed at a layer different from the first connection part CP1, the first sensing unit SP1, and the second sensing unit SP2. Therefore, the first sensing electrodes IE1-1 to IE1-5 and the second sensing electrodes IE2-1 to IE2-4 are not short-circuited to each other.

[0120] Each of the first signal lines SL1-1 to SL1-5 may be connected to one end of each of the first sensing electrodes IE1-1 to IE1-5, respectively. The second signal lines SL2-1 to SL2-4 may be connected to both ends of the second sensing electrodes IE2-1 to IE2-4. In an exemplary embodiment, the first signal lines SL1-1 to SL1-5 may be connected to both ends of the first sensing electrodes IE1-1 to IE1-5. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the second signal lines SL2-1 to SL2-4 may be connected to only one end of each of the second sensing electrodes IE2-1 to IE2-4, respectively.

[0121] The first signal lines SL1-1 to SL1-5 and the second signal lines SL2-1 to SL2-4 may include a line portion SL-L and a pad portion SL-P. The pad portion SL-P may be arranged to the pad area NDA-PD.

[0122] The input sensing unit ISL may include a signal pad DP-PD. The signal pad DP-PD may be arranged to the pad area NDA-PD.

[0123] However, this is merely an example, and the planar shape of the input sensing unit ISL is not limited thereto.

[0124] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 4 An enlarged view of an example of the AA portion of the input sensing unit.

[0125] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 , each of the first sensing unit SP1, the second sensing unit SP2, the first connection part CP1, and the second connection part CP2 may include a plurality of mesh lines ML defining a plurality of mesh holes MH.

[0126] The line width of each of the grid lines ML may be several micrometers. The intersection portion of each of the grid lines ML may have a line width smaller than the line width of other portions. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the first sensing unit SP1, the second sensing unit SP2, the first connection part CP1, and the second connection part CP2 may be connected to a non-luminous area of ​​the display panel DP (such as Figure 3 NPXA in FIG.

[0127] In an exemplary embodiment, the first signal lines SL1 - 1 to SL1 - 5 and the second signal lines SL2 - 1 to SL2 - 4 may also have a mesh shape.

[0128] Each of the mesh holes MH can be connected to the light emitting area (such as Figure 3 The mesh holes MH may have different areas as required.

[0129] The first sensing cell SP1 and the second sensing cell SP2 may be formed not to contact each other.

[0130] In an exemplary embodiment, the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 may cross each other. For example, the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 may cross each other while being insulated from each other, and an insulating layer is interposed between the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2. Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , there is a portion where the mesh lines ML of the first connection part CP1 and the mesh lines ML of the second connection part CP2 cross (or overlap) each other. For clarity, the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 are shown in FIG. Figure 5 , but the arrangement of the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 is not limited thereto. For example, the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 may not cross each other.

[0131] Figure 6 It is schematically shown Figure 5 FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an example of an II' portion of an input sensing unit.

[0132] Reference Figures 1 to 6 , the input sensing unit ISL may include a sensing unit base layer TBL, a first conductive pattern CD1, a second conductive pattern CD2, a first insulating layer IL1, and a second insulating layer IL2.

[0133] In an exemplary embodiment, the display panel DP may be disposed under the input sensing unit ISL.

[0134] In an exemplary embodiment, the sensing unit base layer TBL may be a top layer of the encapsulation layer TFE of the display panel DP. For example, the sensing unit base layer TBL may be an inorganic layer (or an inorganic insulating layer) as the top layer of the encapsulation layer TFE. In an exemplary embodiment, the sensing unit base layer TBL may be an inorganic layer (or an inorganic buffer layer) additionally disposed on the encapsulation layer TFE. For example, the sensing unit base layer TBL may include a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, an aluminum oxide layer, or the like.

[0135] The first conductive pattern CD1 may be disposed directly on the sensing unit base layer TBL. In an exemplary embodiment, the first conductive pattern CD1 may be disposed overlapping the pixel defining layer PDL.

[0136] In an exemplary embodiment, the first conductive pattern CD1 may form the second connection part CP2. In this case, the second conductive pattern CD2 may form the first sensing cell SP1, the first connection part CP1, and the second sensing cell SP2.

[0137] In an exemplary embodiment, the first conductive pattern CD1 may form the first sensing cell SP1, the first connection part CP1, and the second sensing cell SP2. In this case, the second conductive pattern CD2 may form the second connection part CP2.

[0138] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described under the condition that the second connection part CP2 is formed in the first conductive pattern CD1.

[0139] The first conductive pattern CD1 may have a mesh pattern with a plurality of mesh holes. In an exemplary embodiment, the first conductive pattern CD1 may be formed overlapping the pixel defining layer PDL by patterning using a mask.

[0140] The first insulating layer IL1 covers the first conductive pattern CD1 and may be disposed on the sensing cell base layer TBL. The first insulating layer IL1 may have a single layer structure or a multi-layer structure. The first insulating layer IL1 may include an inorganic material or an organic material or a composite material.

[0141] A contact hole CNT partially exposing the first conductive pattern CD1 may be formed in the first insulating layer IL1 .

[0142] In exemplary embodiments, the first insulating layer IL1 may include a color filter and a black matrix.

[0143] The second conductive pattern CD2 may be disposed on the first insulating layer IL1. A portion of the second conductive pattern CD2 may be connected to the first conductive pattern CD1 through the contact hole CNT. The second conductive pattern CD2 connected to the first conductive pattern CD1 may be defined as a second sensing unit SP2.

[0144] A portion of the second conductive pattern CD2 may cross the first conductive pattern CD1. The second conductive pattern CD2 crossing or overlapping the first conductive pattern CD1 may be defined as a first connection part CP1.

[0145] The area where the first conductive pattern CD1 and the second conductive pattern CD2 intersect each other may be defined as an intersection area ITS. In the intersection area ITS, the first conductive pattern CD1 and the second conductive pattern CD2 are not connected. That is, the intersection area ITS is an area where the first conductive pattern CD1 and the second conductive pattern CD2 are not connected. For example, the intersection area ITS may include a first connection component CP1 and a second connection component CP2.

[0146] In an exemplary embodiment, if Figure 6As shown in , the line width of the first conductive pattern CD1 included in the intersection region ITS may be smaller than the line width in another region. In addition, the line width of the first conductive pattern CD1 (i.e., the second connection part CP2) included in the intersection region ITS may be smaller than the line width of the second conductive pattern CD2 (i.e., the first connection part CP1).

[0147] In the process of forming each of the conductive lines and / or electrodes included in the display panel DP located below the input sensing unit ISL, conductive particles such as silver (Ag) are precipitated and deposited, thereby contaminating the upper deposition structure. For example, conductive particles generated during the line removal process may be unintentionally deposited on the first conductive pattern CD1 and / or the second conductive pattern CD2 included in the intersection region ITS.

[0148] Therefore, a micro resistance is formed between the first and second conductive patterns CD1 and CD2 in the intersection region ITS, which effectively reduces the sensitivity of the input sensing unit ISL, or the first and second conductive patterns CD1 and CD2 may be short-circuited, and a detection failure may occur.

[0149] The display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention can prevent contamination from conductive particles by minimizing the overlap area between the first conductive pattern CD1 and the second conductive pattern CD2 in the intersection area ITS. Fig. 7A The following figures describe this in detail.

[0150] In an exemplary embodiment, the second conductive pattern CD2 may have a mesh pattern with a plurality of mesh holes. The second conductive pattern CD2 may be formed on the first insulating layer IL1 by patterning using a mask.

[0151] Each of the first conductive pattern CD1 and the second conductive pattern CD2 may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure. The conductive pattern of the single-layer structure may include a metal layer or a transparent conductive layer. The metal layer may include at least one selected from molybdenum, silver, titanium, copper, aluminum and their alloys. The transparent conductive layer may include a transparent conductive oxide such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), indium tin zinc oxide (ITZO). In addition, the transparent conductive layer may include a conductive polymer such as PEDOT, a metal nanowire or graphene, etc. The multi-layer metal layer may have a three-layer structure, for example, titanium / aluminum / titanium.

[0152] The second insulating layer IL2 may be disposed on the first insulating layer IL1 to cover the second conductive pattern CD2. The second insulating layer IL2 may have a single layer structure or a multi-layer structure. The second insulating layer IL2 may include an inorganic material or an organic material or a composite material.

[0153] In exemplary embodiments, at least one of the first insulating layer IL1 and the second insulating layer IL2 may be a polymer layer (eg, an acrylic polymer layer) to improve flexibility.

[0154] In exemplary embodiments, the second insulating layer IL2 may include a black matrix and a color filter for an anti-reflection function.

[0155] 7A to 7D It is schematically shown Figure 5 FIG. 1 is an enlarged view of an example of the BB portion of the input sensing unit.

[0156] Reference Figures 3 to 7D , the input sensing unit ISL may include a first conductive pattern CD1 and a second conductive pattern CD2 overlapping each other. In an exemplary embodiment, the first conductive pattern CD1 may include a second connection part CP2, and the second conductive pattern CD2 may include a first sensing unit SP1, a second sensing unit SP2, and the first connection part CP1. That is, the second connection part CP2 may be disposed below the first connection part CP1.

[0157] 7A to 7D Each of the first and second conductive patterns CD1 and CD2 shown in FIG. 5 may be a portion of the mesh line ML.

[0158] In an exemplary embodiment, the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 may overlap in the intersection area ITS.

[0159] The first conductive pattern CD1 (i.e., the second connection part CP2) may include a first portion PO1 and a second portion PO2 extending from the first portion PO1. The first portion PO1 may be included in the intersection region ITS, and the second portion PO2 may be formed outside the intersection region ITS. Similarly, the second conductive pattern CD2 (i.e., the first connection part CP1) may include a third portion PO3 and a fourth portion PO4 extending from the third portion PO3. The third portion PO3 may be included in the intersection region ITS, and the fourth portion PO4 may be formed outside the intersection region ITS. In the following, 7A to 9B In the embodiment, the first conductive pattern CD1 is the second connecting part CP2, and the second conductive pattern CD2 is the first connecting part CP1.

[0160] In an exemplary embodiment, the second portion PO2 of the second connection part CP2 does not overlap the second conductive pattern CD2 including the first connection part CP1. In addition, the fourth portion PO4 of the first connection part CP1 does not overlap the first conductive pattern CD1 (ie, the second connection part CP2).

[0161] In an exemplary embodiment, the area of ​​the portion where the second connection part CP2 overlaps the second sensing unit SP2 may be the same as the area of ​​the other portion. Since the second connection part CP2 and the second sensing unit SP2 are electrically connected, even if a portion connected to each other by the generated conductive particles is added, there is no significant effect on the input sensing drive.

[0162] In an exemplary embodiment, the width W1 of the first portion PO1 of the second connection part CP2 may be smaller than the width W2 of the second portion PO2. 7A to 7D As shown in , each of the widths of the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 may be defined as a width (distance) in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the grid lines extend. For example, the second width W2 may be about 4 μm, and the first width W1 may be about 1 μm to about 2.5 μm.

[0163] Here, the first width W1 may be a width of a portion where the second connection part CP2 overlaps the first connection part CP1. The second width W2 may be a width of the second connection part CP2 outside the intersection area ITS.

[0164] The second width W2 may be about 4 μm, and the first width W1 may be about 2 μm. However, the width (or line width) of the grid lines of the second connection part CP2 is not limited thereto. The ratio between the first width W1 and the second width W2 may be set to a predetermined critical ratio range. For example, the first width W1 may be in the range of about 30% to about 60% of the second width W2.

[0165] The width of the second portion PO2 of the second connection part CP2 may be substantially uniform. For example, a portion of the second portion PO2 may overlap the second sensing cell SP2. The width of the second connection part CP2 overlapping the second sensing cell SP2 may be substantially equal to the second width W2.

[0166] In an exemplary embodiment, the width of the third portion PO3 and the width of the fourth portion PO4 of the first connection part CP1 may be substantially equal. For example, the first connection part CP1 may have a width equal to the second width W2, and the first width W1 may be smaller than the second width W2. If the width of the second connection part CP2 overlapping the first connection part CP1 is reduced to half of the normal width of the second connection part CP2, the area of ​​the overlapping region of the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 may be reduced to half.

[0167] like Fig. 7AAs shown in , the second connection part CP2 may have a notch shape in the first part PO1. For example, the notch may be formed at at least one side boundary of the second connection part CP2 and in the direction along which the grid lines of the second connection part CP2 extend. That is, the second connection part CP2 may include an inclined boundary in the direction along which the grid lines of the second connection part CP2 extend in the first part PO1. Here, the width of the area of ​​the first part PO1 overlapping with the first connection part CP1 may be substantially uniform. Therefore, the planar shape of the area where the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 overlap may be substantially a quadrilateral shape.

[0168] In an exemplary embodiment, the area of ​​the first portion PO1 of the second connection part CP2 included in the intersection region ITS may be smaller than the area of ​​the second portion PO2 included in the unit region ITS1 having the same size as the intersection region ITS. Therefore, the overlapping area of ​​the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 in the intersection region ITS may be reduced.

[0169] Therefore, the possibility of conductive particles being deposited on the first and second connection parts CP1 and CP2 can be reduced, and the microresistance and short circuit occurrence rate due to the conductive particles can be reduced. Therefore, the process failure rate of the input sensing unit ISL and the display device DD can be improved.

[0170] In an exemplary embodiment, the width W1 of the first portion PO1 of the second connection part CP2 may become smaller toward the center of the intersection area ITS. Figure 7B As shown in , the second connection part CP2 may have a concave shape toward the center of the intersection area ITS in the first portion PO1. For example, the boundary of the second connection part CP2 in the intersection area ITS may have a predetermined curvature that is concave toward the center of the intersection area ITS. Alternatively, in an exemplary embodiment, as Figure 7C As shown in FIG. 1 , a side boundary of the second connection part CP2 in the intersection area ITS may be in a “V” shape having a predetermined angle.

[0171] exist FIG. 7A to FIG. 7C , the opposite boundaries of the first portion PO1 are shown as symmetrical, but the shape of the boundaries of the first portion PO1 is not limited thereto. Fig.7D As shown in FIG. 1 , one side boundary of the first portion PO1 may be formed in a straight line parallel to a boundary of the second portion PO2 , but the other side boundary of the first portion PO1 may be formed in a predetermined curvature.

[0172] However, this is only an example, and the planar shape of the first portion PO1 is not limited thereto. The first portion PO1 may be any planar shape capable of minimizing an area overlapped with the first connection part CP1.

[0173] Therefore, the area of ​​the first portion PO1 of the second connection part CP2 included in the intersection region ITS may be smaller than the area of ​​the second portion PO2 included in the unit region ITS1 having the same size as the intersection region ITS. Therefore, the overlapping area of ​​the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 in the intersection region ITS may be reduced.

[0174] Figure 8 It is schematically shown Figure 5 An enlarged view of an example of the BB portion of the input sensing unit, Fig.9A and Fig. 9B It is schematically shown Figure 5 FIG. 1 is an enlarged view of an example of the BB portion of the input sensing unit.

[0175] exist Figures 8 to 9B For reference Fig. 7A The components described use the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions of these components will be omitted. In addition, in addition to the shapes of the first connection component CP1 and the second connection component CP2 in the intersection area ITS, Figures 8 to 9B The input sensing unit ISL may basically have Figure 4 The input sensing unit ISL has the same or similar structure.

[0176] Reference Figures 6 to 9B The input sensing unit ISL may include a first conductive pattern CD1 and a second conductive pattern CD2 overlapping each other. The first conductive pattern CD1 may include a second connection part CP2, and the second conductive pattern CD2 may include a first sensing unit SP1, a second sensing unit SP2, and a first connection part CP1.

[0177] Figures 8 to 9B Each of the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 shown in FIG. 5 is a part of the grid line and may overlap each other in the intersection area ITS.

[0178] like Figure 8 As shown in , the width of the first portion PO1 of the second connection part CP2 may be the same as the width of the second portion PO2, and the width W3 of the third portion PO3 of the first connection part CP1 may be smaller than the width W4 of the fourth portion PO4. In an exemplary embodiment, the side boundary of the third portion PO3 of the first connection part CP1 may have a notch shape. For example, the notch may be formed at at least one side boundary of the first connection part CP1 and in the direction along which the grid lines of the first connection part CP1 extend.

[0179] However, this is only an example, and the planar shape of the third portion PO3 is not limited thereto. The third portion PO3 may be any planar shape capable of minimizing the area overlapped with the second connection part CP2.

[0180] The fourth width W4 may be about 4 μm, and the third width W3 may be about 1 μm to about 2.5 μm. However, the width (or line width) of the grid line of the first connection part CP1 is not limited thereto. The ratio between the third width W3 and the fourth width W4 may be set to a predetermined critical ratio range. For example, the third width W3 may be in the range of about 30% to about 60% of the fourth width W4.

[0181] Here, the third width W3 may be a width of a portion of the first connection part CP1 overlapping the second connection part CP2. The fourth width W4 may be a width of the first connection part CP1 outside the intersection area ITS.

[0182] The width of the fourth portion PO4 of the first connection part CP1 may be substantially uniform. In an exemplary embodiment, the width of the first portion PO1 and the width of the second portion PO2 of the second connection part CP2 may be substantially equal. For example, the second connection part CP2 may have a width equal to the fourth width W4, and the third width W3 may be smaller than the fourth width W4.

[0183] The third portion PO3 of the first connection part CP1 included in the intersection region ITS may have a smaller area than the fourth portion PO4 included in the unit region ITS1 having the same size as the intersection region ITS. Therefore, the overlapping area of ​​the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 in the intersection region ITS may be reduced.

[0184] If the width of the first connection part CP1 overlapping the second connection part CP2 (ie, the third width W3) is reduced to half of the normal width of the first connection part CP1, the area of ​​the overlapping region of the first and second connection parts CP1 and CP2 may be reduced to half of their normal areas.

[0185] like Fig.9A and Fig. 9B As shown in FIG. 1 , a width of the first portion PO1 of the second connection part CP2 may be smaller than a width W2 of the second portion PO2 , and a width W3 of the third portion PO3 of the first connection part CP1 may be smaller than a width W4 of the fourth portion PO4 .

[0186] In an exemplary embodiment, each of the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 may have a notch shape in the intersection area ITS. At the portion where the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 overlap, the width W3 of the first connection part CP1 (i.e., the third portion PO3) and the width W1 of the second connection part CP2 (i.e., the first portion PO1) may be uniform, respectively. Therefore, the planar shape of the area where the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 overlap may be substantially a quadrilateral shape.

[0187] The area of ​​the first portion PO1 of the second connection part CP2 included in the intersection area ITS or the area of ​​the third portion PO3 of the first connection part CP1 included in the intersection area ITS may be smaller than the area of ​​the second portion PO2 included in the unit area ITS1 having the same size as the intersection area ITS. Therefore, the overlapping area of ​​the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 in the intersection area ITS may be reduced.

[0188] For example, if the width of the second connection part CP2 and the width of the first connection part CP1 are reduced to half of their normal widths, the area of ​​the overlapping region of the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 can be reduced to about 1 / 4 of their normal areas. FIG. 7A to FIG. 8 More than twice the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG.

[0189] Therefore, the possibility of conductive particles being deposited on the first and second connection parts CP1 and CP2 can be reduced, and the microresistance and short circuit occurrence rate due to the conductive particles can be reduced. Therefore, the process failure rate of the input sensing unit ISL and the display device DD can be improved.

[0190] When the width of the second connection part CP2 and the width of the first connection part CP1 are reduced in the intersection area ITS, the area of ​​the overlapping region of the first and second connection parts CP1 and CP2 can be reduced, and the possibility of conductive particles being deposited on the overlapping region of the first and second connection parts CP1 and CP2 can be reduced.

[0191] In an exemplary embodiment, the width of the first portion PO1 of the second connection part CP2 and the width of the third portion PO3 of the first connection part CP1 may become smaller toward the center of the intersection area ITS. Fig. 9B As shown in FIG. 1 , a side boundary of the second connection part CP2 in the intersection area ITS may be in a “V” shape having a predetermined angle.

[0192] However, this is only an example, and the planar shapes of the first portion PO1 and the third portion PO3 are not limited thereto. The first portion PO1 and the third portion PO3 may be any planar shapes capable of minimizing the area overlapped with each other.

[0193] As described above, the overlapping area of ​​the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 in the intersection area ITS can be reduced, so that the micro resistance and short circuit occurrence rate caused by the conductive particles generated in the manufacturing process of the display panel DP in the input sensing unit ISL can be reduced. Therefore, the process failure rate of the input sensing unit ISL and the display device DD can be improved.

[0194] Fig.10 It is shown Figure 4 An enlarged view of an example of the AA portion of the input sensing unit.

[0195] exist Fig.10 For reference Figure 5 The components described use the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions of these components will be omitted. In addition, except for the treatment of the second connecting component CP2, Fig.10 The input sensing unit ISL may have Figure 5 The configuration of the input sensing unit ISL is substantially the same or similar to that of the input sensing unit ISL.

[0196] Reference Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Fig.10 , each of the first sensing unit SP1, the second sensing unit SP2, the first connection part CP1, and the second connection part CP2 may include a plurality of mesh lines ML defining a plurality of mesh holes MH.

[0197] The line width of each of the mesh lines ML may be several micrometers. A crossing portion of each of the mesh lines ML may have a line width smaller than that of other portions.

[0198] The first sensing cell SP1 and the second sensing cell SP2 may be formed not to contact each other.

[0199] In an exemplary embodiment, the second connection part CP2 and the first sensing unit SP1 may cross (or overlap) each other. In addition, the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 may not cross each other. For example, the first sensing unit SP1 and the second connection part CP2 may cross each other while being insulated from each other, and an insulating layer is placed between the first sensing unit SP1 and the second connection part CP2.

[0200] like Fig.10As shown in FIG. 1 , there is a portion where the grid lines ML of the first sensing unit SP1 and the grid lines ML of the second connection part CP2 cross (or overlap) each other. For clarity, the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 are Fig.10 2 is shown in bold, but the arrangement of the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 is not limited thereto.

[0201] FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C It is schematically shown Fig.10 An enlarged view of an example of the CC portion of the input sensing unit.

[0202] Reference Figure 6 as well as Figures 10 to 11C The input sensing unit ISL may include first and second conductive patterns CD1 and CD2 overlapping each other. In an exemplary embodiment, the first conductive pattern CD1 may include a second connection part CP2, and the second conductive pattern CD2 may include first and second sensing units SP1 and SP2 and the first connection part CP1.

[0203] The second connection part CP2 may be disposed under the first sensing cell SP1. Thus, a crossing region ITS in which the second connection part CP2 and the first sensing cell SP1 cross each other may be formed.

[0204] Hereinafter, description will be made under the condition that the first conductive pattern CD1 forms the mesh lines of the second connection parts CP2 and the second conductive pattern CD2 forms the mesh lines of the first sensing units SP1. FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C .

[0205] like Fig.11A As shown in, in an exemplary embodiment, the first width W1 of the first portion PO1 of the second connection part CP2 may be smaller than the second width W2 of the second portion PO2. The width of the grid lines constituting the first sensing unit SP1 may be substantially uniform. In an exemplary embodiment, the first portion PO1 of the second connection part CP2 may include a notch. The area of ​​the second connection part CP2 included in the intersection region ITS may be smaller than the area of ​​the second portion PO2 included in the unit region having the same size. Therefore, the overlapping area of ​​the first sensing unit SP1 and the second connection part CP2 in the intersection region ITS may be reduced.

[0206] like Fig. 11BAs shown in , the third width W3 of the third portion PO3 of the first sensing unit SP1 may be smaller than the fourth width W4 of the fourth portion PO4. The width of the grid lines constituting the second connection part CP2 may be substantially uniform. That is, the width of the portion of the first sensing unit SP1 included in the intersection area ITS may be smaller than the width of the other portions. The area of ​​the first sensing unit SP1 included in the intersection area ITS may be smaller than the area of ​​the fourth portion PO4 included in the unit area having the same size. Therefore, the overlapping area of ​​the first sensing unit SP1 and the second connection part CP2 in the intersection area ITS may be reduced.

[0207] like Fig. 11C As shown in , the width of the first portion PO1 of the second connection part CP2 may be smaller than the width of the second portion PO2, and the width of the third portion PO3 of the first sensing unit SP1 may be smaller than the width of the fourth portion PO4. That is, the area of ​​the first sensing unit SP1 and the area of ​​the second connection part CP2 included in the intersection region ITS may be smaller than the area of ​​the fourth portion PO4 and the area of ​​the second portion PO2 included in the unit region having the same size, respectively. Therefore, the overlapping area of ​​the first sensing unit SP1 and the second connection part CP2 in the intersection region ITS may be reduced.

[0208] Therefore, the possibility of conductive particles being deposited on the first sensing unit SP1 and the second connection part CP2 can be reduced, and the microresistance and short circuit occurrence rate due to the conductive particles can be reduced. Therefore, the process failure rate of the input sensing unit ISL and the display device DD can be improved.

[0209] Fig.12 It is shown Figure 1 A plan view of an example of an input sensing unit included in a display device.

[0210] exist Fig.12 For reference Figure 4 The components described use the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions of these components will be omitted. In addition, except for the shape of the sensing electrode, Fig.12 The input sensing unit ISL1 may have Figure 4 The configuration of the input sensing unit ISL is substantially the same or similar to that of the input sensing unit ISL.

[0211] Reference Fig.12 The input sensing unit ISL1 may include first sensing electrodes IE1-1 to IE1-5, first signal lines SL1-1 to SL1-5 connected to the first sensing electrodes IE1-1 to IE1-5, second sensing electrodes IE2-1 to IE2-4, and second signal lines SL2-1 to SL2-4 connected to the second sensing electrodes IE2-1 to IE2-4.

[0212] In an exemplary embodiment, the input sensing unit ISL1 may further include an optical dummy electrode disposed in a boundary region between the first sensing electrodes IE1 - 1 to IE1 - 5 and the second sensing electrodes IE2 - 1 to IE2 - 4 .

[0213] In an exemplary embodiment, the first sensing electrodes IE1-1 to IE1-5 and the second sensing electrodes IE2-1 to IE2-4 may have a rhombus shape. In an exemplary embodiment, the first sensing electrodes IE1-1 to IE1-5 and the second sensing electrodes IE2-1 to IE2-4 may have a shape (e.g., a rod shape) that does not distinguish between a sensing unit and a connection part. The first sensing unit SP1 and the second sensing unit SP2 having a rhombus shape are shown, but the inventive concept is not limited thereto, and the first sensing unit SP1 and the second sensing unit SP2 may have other quadrilateral shapes.

[0214] In an exemplary embodiment, the first connection part CP1, the first sensing unit SP1, and the second sensing unit SP2 may be disposed on the same layer, and the second connection part CP2 may be disposed on a layer different from the layer of the first connection part CP1, the first sensing unit SP1, and the second sensing unit SP2. Therefore, the first sensing electrodes IE1-1 to IE1-5 and the second sensing electrodes IE2-1 to IE2-4 are not short-circuited to each other. For example, the second connection part CP2 may be disposed below the first connection part CP1, the first sensing unit SP1, and the second sensing unit SP2, and an insulating layer is placed between the second connection part CP2 and the first connection part CP1, the first sensing unit SP1, and the second sensing unit SP2.

[0215] Fig.13 and Fig.14 It is schematically shown Fig.12 FIG. 1 is an enlarged view of an example of a DD portion of an input sensing unit.

[0216] Reference Fig.13 and Fig.14 , the input sensing unit ISL1 may include a first conductive pattern and a second conductive pattern, and an insulating layer is interposed between the first conductive pattern and the second conductive pattern.

[0217] In an exemplary embodiment, the first conductive pattern may include the second connection part CP2, and the second conductive pattern may include the first sensing unit SP1, the second sensing unit SP2, and the first connection part CP1. For example, the second connection part CP2 may be disposed under the first connection part CP1.

[0218] The second sensing cells SP2 adjacent to each other may be connected to the second connection part CP2 through the contact holes CNT penetrating the insulating layer. Therefore, the second sensing cells SP2 arranged in the second direction DR2 may be electrically connected to each other.

[0219] like Fig.13 As shown in , the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 may overlap each other in the intersection area ITS. In an exemplary embodiment, the width of the first portion PO1 of the second connection part CP2 corresponding to the intersection area ITS may be narrower than the width of the second portion PO2 of the second connection part CP2 outside the intersection area ITS. In addition, the width of the third portion PO3 of the first connection part CP1 corresponding to the intersection area ITS may be narrower than the width of the fourth portion PO4 of the first connection part CP1 outside the intersection area ITS. Therefore, the overlapping area of ​​the first connection part CP1 and the second connection part CP2 in the intersection area ITS can be reduced.

[0220] like Fig.14 As shown in , the first sensing unit SP1 and the second connecting parts CP2-1 and CP2-2 may overlap each other. Two second connecting parts CP2-1 and CP2-2 (or collectively referred to as CP2) may connect the second sensing units SP2 adjacent to each other. However, this is only an example, and the number of second connecting parts CP2 connecting the second sensing units SP2 adjacent to each other is not limited thereto.

[0221] In an exemplary embodiment, the width of the first portion PO1 of the second connection part CP2 overlapping the first sensing cell SP1 may be smaller than the width of the second portion PO2 of the second connection part CP2 not overlapping the first sensing cell SP1. Therefore, the area of ​​the overlapping region of the first sensing cell SP1 and the second connection part CP2 may be reduced.

[0222] As described above, the width of the conductive pattern of the portion where the second connection part CP2 overlaps with the first sensing unit SP1 or the width of the conductive pattern of the portion where the second connection part CP2 overlaps with the first connection part CP1 can be smaller than the width of the other portions of the conductive pattern. Therefore, the area where the second connection part CP2 overlaps with the first sensing unit SP1 or the area where the second connection part CP2 overlaps with the first connection part CP1 can be reduced to less than half of the conventional area. Therefore, the possibility of conductive particles being deposited on the first conductive pattern and / or the second conductive pattern can be reduced, so that the micro-resistance and short circuit occurrence rate caused by the conductive particles in the input sensing units ISL and ISL1 can be reduced. Therefore, the process failure rate of the input sensing units ISL and ISL1 and the display device DD can be improved.

[0223] The input sensing unit and the display device including the input sensing unit according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention may have a width of a portion smaller than the width of other portions, and portions of the second connection part and the first sensing electrode formed by the first conductive pattern and the second conductive pattern respectively overlap and intersect each other. Therefore, the overlapping area between the second connection part and the first sensing electrode can be reduced to less than half of the conventional overlapping area.

[0224] Therefore, the possibility of conductive particles being deposited on the first conductive pattern and / or the second conductive pattern can be reduced, so that the micro-resistance and short circuit occurrence rate caused by the conductive particles in the input sensing unit can be reduced. Therefore, the process inferiority rate of the input sensing unit and the display device can be improved.

[0225] Although exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to the drawings, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: A display panel comprising a light emitting element and an encapsulation layer covering the light emitting element; as well as An input sensing unit is disposed on the display panel. in: The input sensing unit includes: a first conductive pattern disposed on the encapsulation layer, the first conductive pattern including a first portion and a second portion extending from the first portion; an insulating layer covering the first conductive pattern; and a second conductive pattern disposed on the insulating layer, the second conductive pattern including a third portion overlapping at least a portion of the first portion of the first conductive pattern and a fourth portion extending from the third portion; and The width of the first portion is smaller than the width of the second portion, and wherein each of the first conductive pattern and the second conductive pattern has a mesh pattern including a plurality of mesh lines defining a plurality of mesh holes, The second conductive pattern includes: a first sensing electrode including a first sensing unit and a first connecting member connecting the first sensing units adjacent to each other, the first sensing electrode extending in a first direction; and a second sensing unit arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction, The first conductive pattern includes a second connection member connecting the second sensing units adjacent to each other to form a second sensing electrode, The second connecting member includes the first portion and the second portion, The second sensing unit and the second connecting member are connected through a contact hole passing through the insulating layer, and Each of the first connection member and the second connection member includes a plurality of grid lines.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The width of the third portion is smaller than the width of the fourth portion.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The second portion does not overlap the second conductive pattern, and the fourth portion does not overlap the first conductive pattern.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first portion and the third portion are located in a region included in an intersection region where the first conductive pattern and the second conductive pattern intersect; and The first portion of the first conductive pattern included in the intersection region has an area smaller than that of the second portion included in a unit region having the same size as the intersection region.

5. The display device according to claim 4, wherein: The area of ​​the third portion of the second conductive pattern included in the intersection region is smaller than the area of ​​the fourth portion included in the cell region.

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: A portion of the second connection member overlaps a portion of the first sensing unit adjacent to the second connection member.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein: The first sensing unit overlapping the second connection member includes the third portion overlapping the second connection member and the fourth portion not overlapping the second connection member.

8. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: A width of a portion of the second connection member overlapping the second sensing unit is greater than the width of the first portion.

9. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: A width of a portion of the second connection member overlapping the second sensing unit is equal to the width of the second portion.

10. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first connecting member includes the third portion and the fourth portion, and the first portion of the second connecting member overlaps the third portion of the first connecting member.

11. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first connecting member includes the third portion overlapping the first portion of the second connecting member and the fourth portion not overlapping the second connecting member.

12. The display device according to claim 11, wherein: The width of the third portion is smaller than the width of the fourth portion.

13. A display device, comprising: A display panel comprising a light emitting element and an encapsulation layer covering the light emitting element; as well as An input sensing unit is disposed on the display panel. in: The input sensing unit includes: a first conductive pattern disposed on the encapsulation layer, the first conductive pattern including a first portion and a second portion extending from the first portion; an insulating layer covering the first conductive pattern; and a second conductive pattern disposed on the insulating layer, the second conductive pattern including a third portion overlapping at least a portion of the first portion of the first conductive pattern and a fourth portion extending from the third portion; and The width of the third portion is smaller than the width of the fourth portion, and wherein each of the first conductive pattern and the second conductive pattern has a mesh pattern including a plurality of mesh lines defining a plurality of mesh holes, The second conductive pattern includes: a first sensing electrode including first sensing units and a first connecting member connecting the first sensing units adjacent to each other, and the first sensing electrode extends in a first direction; and second sensing units arranged in a second direction crossing the first direction, The first conductive pattern includes a second connection member connecting the second sensing units adjacent to each other to form a second sensing electrode, The first connecting member includes the third portion and the fourth portion, or the first sensing unit includes the third portion and the fourth portion, The second sensing unit is connected to the second connecting member through a contact hole passing through the insulating layer, and Each of the first connection member and the second connection member includes a plurality of grid lines.

14. The display device according to claim 13, wherein: The width of the first portion is smaller than the width of the second portion.

15. The display device according to claim 13, wherein: The first portion of the second connection member overlaps the third portion of the first sensing unit adjacent to the second connection member.

16. The display device according to claim 13, wherein: The first portion of the second connecting member overlaps the third portion of the first connecting member.

Images