Electronic panel and electronic device including the same

Abstract

An electronic panel and an electronic device including the same are provided. The electronic panel includes a base substrate including a front surface, a rear surface opposite the front surface, and a plurality of side surfaces connecting the front surface and the rear surface to each other; a pixel definition layer on the front surface of the base substrate and having a plurality of openings defined therein; a plurality of emission elements in the plurality of openings; and a spacer on the pixel definition layer and spaced apart from the plurality of openings, wherein a thickness of the spacer is equal to or greater than a thickness of the pixel definition layer.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2019-0028410, filed on March 12, 2019, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] Aspects of some example embodiments of the present inventive concepts relate to an electronic panel and an electronic device including the same, for example, to an electronic panel having improved visibility and an electronic device including the same. BACKGROUND

[0003] Electronic devices are activated by electrical signals. Electronic devices can include various electronic components such as electronic panels and electronic modules. Electronic panels include a plurality of light emitting devices configured to generate or display images. The light emitting devices define corresponding emission areas and can generate images through light displayed at the emission areas.

[0004] A display surface can display images, while the display surface can be exposed to external light. The external light can travel into the electronic panel through the display surface. Light incident into the electronic panel can be reflected from various components that make up the electronic panel.

[0005] The above information disclosed in this Background section is only for enhancing the understanding of the background of the present disclosure, and therefore, it can include information that does not constitute prior art. SUMMARY

[0006] Some example embodiments of the present inventive concepts include an electronic panel configured to prevent a decrease in visibility or display quality that can otherwise be caused by internal light leakage and an electronic device including the same.

[0007] According to some example embodiments of the present inventive concepts, an electronic panel includes a base substrate including a front surface, a rear surface opposite the front surface, and a plurality of side surfaces connecting the front surface and the rear surface to each other, a pixel definition layer on the front surface of the base substrate and having a plurality of openings defined therein, a plurality of emission elements in the plurality of openings, and a spacer on the pixel definition layer and spaced apart from the plurality of openings. A thickness of the spacer can be equal to or greater than a thickness of the pixel definition layer.

[0008] According to some example embodiments, the pixel definition layer and the spacer can have an integrated shape.

[0009] According to some example embodiments, a ratio of a thickness of the pixel definition layer to a sum of the thickness of the pixel definition layer and a thickness of the spacer can be equal to or less than 0.3.

[0010] According to some example embodiments, each of the plurality of openings can include a first side surface extending in a direction inclined at a first angle with respect to an extension direction of a first side surface among the plurality of side surfaces when viewed from the front surface, and a second side surface connected to the first side surface and extending in a direction inclined at a second angle with respect to the extension direction of the first side surface. One or more of the first angle and the second angle can be in a range of 45°±15° or 135°±15°.

[0011] According to some example embodiments, the spacer can include a first side wall extending in a direction inclined at a first angle with respect to an extension direction of a first side surface among the plurality of side surfaces when viewed from the front surface, and a second side wall connected to the first side wall and extending in a direction inclined at a second angle with respect to the extension direction of the first side surface. One or more of the first angle and the second angle can be in a range of 45°±15° or 135°±15°.

[0012] According to some example embodiments, the spacer can further include a third side wall extending in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the first side surface when viewed from the front surface, and connected to the first side wall or connected to the second side wall.

[0013] According to some example embodiments, the electronic panel can further include a plurality of signal lines located between the base substrate and the pixel definition layer. The plurality of signal lines can be electrically connected to the plurality of emission elements. An angle between an extension direction of a first side surface among the plurality of side surfaces and an extension direction of each of the plurality of signal lines can be in a range of 45°±15° or 135°±15° when viewed from the front surface.

[0014] According to some example embodiments, the plurality of signal lines can be stacked with the pixel definition layer when viewed in a plane.

[0015] According to some example embodiments, the electronic panel can further include a plurality of mesh lines located on the pixel definition layer and having a plurality of mesh openings defined therein. The plurality of mesh openings can correspond to the plurality of openings of the pixel definition layer. The plurality of mesh lines can include first mesh lines extending in a single direction and second mesh lines extending in a direction intersecting the single direction. An angle between an extension direction of a first side surface among the plurality of side surfaces and each of the single direction and the intersecting direction can be in a range of 45°±15° or 135°±15° when viewed from the front surface.

[0016] According to some example embodiments, an electronic device includes an electronic panel including a plurality of emission areas, and a housing unit accommodating the electronic panel. The electronic panel can include a base substrate including a front surface, a rear surface opposite the front surface, and first, second, third, and fourth side surfaces connecting the front and rear surfaces to each other, a pixel definition layer on the front surface and having a plurality of openings defined therein, the plurality of openings corresponding to the plurality of emission areas and including first and second sides connected to each other, a plurality of emission elements in the plurality of openings, a plurality of thin film transistors between the base substrate and the pixel definition layer, the plurality of thin film transistors connected to corresponding emission elements, and a plurality of signal lines between the pixel definition layer and the base substrate, the plurality of signal lines connected to corresponding thin film transistors. When viewed from the front surface, the first side, the second side, and one or more of the plurality of signal lines can extend at an inclined angle with respect to the first side surface. A minimum value of the inclined angle can be in a range of 45° ± 15°.

[0017] According to some example embodiments, each of the plurality of emission elements can include a first electrode, a second electrode on the first electrode and covering the pixel definition layer, and an emission pattern between the first electrode and the second electrode. The first and second sides can be portions of the pixel definition layer in contact with the first electrode.

[0018] According to some example embodiments, the electronic device can further include a spacer on the pixel definition layer and spaced apart from the plurality of openings.

[0019] According to some example embodiments, the spacer can be covered by the second electrode.

[0020] According to some example embodiments, a thickness of the spacer can be equal to or greater than a thickness of the pixel definition layer on an area where the spacer is positioned.

[0021] According to some example embodiments, the spacer and the pixel definition layer can have an integrated shape.

[0022] According to some example embodiments, a ratio of a thickness of the pixel definition layer to a sum of the thickness of the pixel definition layer and the thickness of the spacer can be equal to or less than 0.3.

[0023] According to some example embodiments, when viewed from the front surface, the spacer can include a first side wall having a first inclined angle with respect to the first side surface, and a second side wall having a second inclined angle with respect to the first side surface. The second side wall can be connected to the first side wall. Each of the first and second inclined angles can have a range of 45° ± 15°.

[0024] According to some example embodiments, the first side wall and the second side wall of the spacer can be adjacent to the first side surface.

[0025] According to some example embodiments, the electronic device can further include a plurality of grid lines located on the pixel-defining layer and having a plurality of grid openings defined therein. The plurality of grid openings can correspond to the plurality of emission regions. When viewed from the front surface, an extension direction of each of the plurality of grid lines can be inclined at a certain angle with respect to the first side surface. A minimum value of the certain angle can be in a range of 45° ± 15°.

[0026] According to some example embodiments, the housing unit can be a motor vehicle. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0027] FIG. 1 A perspective view showing a portion of an electronic device according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept is shown.

[0028] FIG. 2 A perspective view showing another portion of the electronic device depicted in FIG. 1 is shown.

[0029] FIG. 3 A perspective view showing an electronic panel according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept is shown.

[0030] FIG. 4A A plan view showing a portion of FIG. 3 is shown.

[0031] FIG. 4B A cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' of FIG. 4A is shown.

[0032] FIG. 5 A cross-sectional view showing a portion of an electronic panel according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept is shown.

[0033] FIG. 6A A graph showing a surface inclination angle of a pixel-defining layer versus distance is shown.

[0034] FIG. 6B A graph showing a relationship between an emission angle and a surface inclination angle is shown.

[0035] FIG. 7A to FIG. 7C A graph showing an intensity of scattered light versus a light reception angle on a pixel-defining layer according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept is shown.

[0036] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B A graph showing a change in luminance according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept is shown.

[0037] FIG. 9 A plan view showing a portion of an electronic panel is shown.

[0038] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10D A graph showing luminance of scattered light versus azimuth angle of a pixel is shown.

[0039] FIG. 11A A plan view partially showing a comparative example is shown.

[0040] FIG. 11B A plan view showing a portion of an electronic panel is shown.

[0041] FIG. 11C An image of a comparative example is shown.

[0042] FIG. 11D An image of an electronic panel according to some example embodiments of inventive concepts is shown.

[0043] FIG. 12A A plan view partially showing a comparative example is shown.

[0044] FIG. 12B A plan view partially showing an electronic panel according to some example embodiments of inventive concepts is shown.

[0045] FIG. 12C An image of a comparative example is shown.

[0046] FIG. 12D An image of an electronic panel according to some example embodiments of inventive concepts is shown.

[0047] FIG. 13A A plan view partially showing a comparative example is shown.

[0048] FIG. 13B A plan view partially showing an electronic panel according to some example embodiments of inventive concepts is shown.

[0049] FIG. 13C An image of a comparative example is shown.

[0050] FIG. 13D An image of an electronic panel according to some example embodiments of inventive concepts is shown.

[0051] FIG. 14A A plan view partially showing a comparative example is shown.

[0052] FIG. 14BA plan view of an electronic panel is shown, partly illustrating some example embodiments according to the inventive concept.

[0053] FIG. 14C An image is captured of a contrast example.

[0054] FIG. 14D An image is captured of an electronic panel according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] Aspects of some example embodiments of the inventive concept will now be described, in the following text, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0056] FIG. 1 A perspective view is shown illustrating a portion of an electronic device according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept. FIG. 2 A perspective view is shown illustrating FIG. 1 A perspective view is shown illustrating another portion of the electronic device depicted in the figure below. In the following, reference will be made to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 Aspects of some example embodiments of the inventive concept will now be described, in the following text, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0057] With reference to FIG. 1 , the electronic device EA comprises an electronic panel EPP. The electronic panel EPP displays an image IM on a display surface FS in correspondence with an electrical signal. The image IM can comprise a static image or a dynamic image.

[0058] According to some example embodiments, the electronic device EA comprises the electronic panel EPP and a housing unit. The electronic device EA can house the electronic panel EPP in a suitable position for the user to easily recognize the image IM displayed on the electronic panel EPP. According to some example embodiments, a motor vehicle is shown as an example to represent the housing unit of the electronic device EA. The electronic panel EPP can be housed within the motor vehicle and can be located below a front window.

[0059] With reference to FIG. 2 , a portion of the external light is incident into the motor vehicle through a side window. When the external light is directed towards the electronic panel EPP, a first light LS can be incident at a first angle AG1 with respect to the display surface FS and can then exit as a second light LR reflected from the display surface FS at a second angle AG2, which travels towards the eyes of the user US, in particular the driver. The second light LR can cause glare to the eyes of the user US and thus reduce the visibility of the image IM to the user US.

[0060] According to some example embodiments, the first angle AG1 can be 45° with respect to the reference line VL, and the second angle AG2 can be 30° with respect to the reference line VL. The closer the angle of light with respect to the display surface FS to 30°, the more the user US can experience glare. When light is directed with an inclination angle close to 45° with respect to the display surface FS, there is a high likelihood that light is reflected at an angle close to 30°. As a result, the electronic device EA according to some example embodiments of the present inventive concept can reduce the distribution of the second light LR among the light emitted from the electronic panel EPP, or can reduce the amount of light emitted at an angle close to 30°, which can result in preventing glare and improving the visibility of the image IM.

[0061] FIG. 3 A perspective view showing an electronic panel according to some example embodiments of the present inventive concept is illustrated. FIG. 4A A plan view showing a portion of FIG. 3 is illustrated. FIG. 4B A cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' of FIG. 4A is illustrated. Hereinafter, aspects of some example embodiments of the present inventive concept will be described with reference to FIG. 3 , FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B .

[0062] As illustrated in FIG. 3 , the electronic panel EPP is illustrated as having a hexahedral plate shape including a display surface FS, a rear surface, and a plurality of side surfaces S1, S2, S3, and S4. The display surface FS can be divided into an active area AA and a non-active area NAA on a plane defined by a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2. The display surface FS displays an image IM toward a third direction DR3.

[0063] The side surfaces S1, S2, S3, and S4 can include a first side surface S1, a second side surface S2, a third side surface S3, and a fourth side surface S4. The first side surface S1, the second side surface S2, the third side surface S3, and the fourth side surface S4 connect the display surface FS and the rear surface to each other.

[0064] The first side surface S1 and the second side surface S2 can extend along the first direction DR1, and can be parallel and opposite to each other in the second direction DR2. The third side surface S3 and the fourth side surface S4 can extend along the second direction DR2, and can be parallel and opposite to each other in the first direction DR1.

[0065] According to some example embodiments, external light (see LS of FIG. 2 ) can be incident in a direction perpendicular to one or more of the first side surface S1, the second side surface S2, the third side surface S3, and the fourth side surface S4 on a plane.

[0066] On the plane, the display surface FS can receive external light LS traveling along a direction perpendicular to one or more of the first side surface S1, the second side surface S2, the third side surface S3, and the fourth side surface S4. According to some example embodiments, the external light LS is shown to travel along a direction perpendicular to the third side surface S3 or the fourth side surface S4.

[0067] The active area AA can include a non-emission area NEA and a plurality of emission areas EA. The emission areas EA can be positioned to be spaced apart from each other. Each of the emission areas EA emits light. The emission areas EA can be independently driven from each other.

[0068] FIG. 4A A unit emission area EA_P is disclosed. The unit emission area EA_P can include a first emission area EA_R, a second emission area EA_G, and a third emission area EA_B. The first emission area EA_R, the second emission area EA_G, and the third emission area EA_B emit light having colors different from each other. According to some example embodiments, as an example, the first emission area EA_R is shown to emit red light, the second emission area EA_G is shown to emit green light, and the third emission area EA_B is shown to emit blue light, but embodiments according to the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

[0069] The non-emission area NEA is adjacent to the emission area EA. The non-emission area NEA can have a lattice shape on the plane. The non-emission area NEA defines spaces located between the emission areas EA.

[0070] The electronic panel EPP can include a base substrate BS, a thin film transistor TR, an emission element EE, a plurality of dielectric layers 10, 20, and 30, a plurality of signal lines SLa and SLb, a pixel definition layer PDL, and a spacer SP. As an example, the dielectric layers 10, 20, and 30 are shown to include a first dielectric layer 10, a second dielectric layer 20, and a third dielectric layer 30.

[0071] The base substrate BS can be a dielectric substrate. For example, the base substrate BS can include a plastic substrate or a glass substrate.

[0072] The thin film transistor TR is located on the base substrate BS. The thin film transistor TR includes a semiconductor pattern AP, a control electrode CE, an input electrode IE, and an output electrode OE.

[0073] The semiconductor pattern AP is disposed between the base substrate BS and the first dielectric layer 10. The semiconductor pattern AP can include a semiconductor material. The control electrode CE is spaced apart from the semiconductor pattern AP across the first dielectric layer 10.

[0074] The input electrode IE and the output electrode OE are provided on the second dielectric layer 20 and are spaced apart from each other in a plan view. The input electrode IE and the output electrode OE penetrate the first dielectric layer 10 and the second dielectric layer 20 and are coupled to one side and the other side of the semiconductor pattern AP, respectively.

[0075] The third dielectric layer 30 is provided on the second dielectric layer 20 to cover the input electrode IE and the output electrode OE. For another example, the semiconductor pattern AP can be provided on the control electrode CE with respect to the thin film transistor TR. For another example, the semiconductor pattern AP can be provided on the input electrode IE and the output electrode OE. For another example, the input electrode IE and the output electrode OE can be provided on the same layer on which the semiconductor pattern AP is provided, and thus the input electrode IE and the output electrode OE can be directly coupled to the semiconductor pattern AP. The thin film transistor TR according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept can be formed to have various structures, and the configuration of the thin film transistor TR is not limited to a specific embodiment.

[0076] The signal lines SLa and SLb can be provided between the base substrate BS and the pixel definition layer PDL. The signal lines SLa and SLb can include a conductive material. For example, the signal lines SLa and SLb can include the same material as that of the control electrode CE, the input electrode IE, or the output electrode OE.

[0077] The signal lines SLa and SLb can be connected to the thin film transistor TR or the emission element EE and can provide an electrical signal to the thin film transistor TR or the emission element EE. The signal lines SLa and SLb can include a gate line, a data line, a power line, or any other line that transmits an electrical signal to the thin film transistor TR or the emission element EE.

[0078] According to some example embodiments, the signal lines SLa and SLb are illustrated as including two signal lines (or a first signal line SLa and a second signal line SLb) provided between the first dielectric layer 10 and the second dielectric layer 20, as an example. The first signal line SLa and the second signal line SLb can be spaced apart from each other on the same layer. The first signal line SLa and the second signal line SLb can transmit electrical signals independent of each other.

[0079] However, the configuration discussed above is merely illustrative, and the first signal line SLa and the second signal line SLb can be provided at various or different positions without being limited to a specific embodiment when the first signal line SLa and the second signal line SLb are capable of providing an electrical signal to the thin film transistor TR or the emission element EE.

[0080] The emission element EE can generate light or control the amount of light according to an electrical signal. For example, the emission element EE can include an organic light emitting device, a quantum dot light emitting device, an electrophoretic device, or an electrowetting device.

[0081] The emission element EE can comprise the first electrode E1, the second electrode E2 and the emission pattern EP. For the emission element EE, a potential difference between the first electrode E1 and the second electrode E2 is used to excite the emission pattern EP to generate light. Thus, each emission area EA can emit light.

[0082] The first electrode E1 can penetrate the third dielectric layer 30 and can be electrically coupled to the thin film transistor TR. According to some example embodiments, the electronic panel EPP can further comprise an interconnect electrode located between the first electrode E1 and the thin film transistor TR, and in this case, the first electrode E1 can be electrically coupled to the thin film transistor TR through the interconnect electrode.

[0083] The emission pattern EP is disposed between the first electrode E1 and the second electrode E2. The emission pattern EP can comprise a light emitting material. For example, the emission pattern EP can be formed by one or more of a material emitting red light, a material emitting green light and a material emitting blue light, and can comprise a fluorescent material or a phosphorescent material. The emission pattern EP can comprise an inorganic light emitting material or an organic light emitting material. The emission pattern EP can emit light in response to a potential difference between the first electrode E1 and the second electrode E2.

[0084] The second electrode E2 is located on the emission pattern EP. The second electrode E2 can face the first electrode E1. The second electrode E2 can have any other shape that overlaps the plurality of emission areas EA in the active area AA. The second electrode E2 can be commonly disposed for a plurality of pixels. The emission element EE disposed with respect to each pixel receives a common voltage supply through the second electrode E2.

[0085] The pixel defining layer PDL is disposed on the third dielectric layer 30. The pixel defining layer PDL can comprise a plurality of openings OP. The openings OP can be formed to penetrate the pixel defining layer PDL. Each opening OP exposes at least a portion of the first electrode E1. The openings OP can define corresponding emission areas EA.

[0086] The spacers SP are disposed on the pixel defining layer PDL. The spacers SP can be used to support a mask when forming the emission pattern EP. Thus, the areas in which the spacers SP are located can protrude more towards the third direction DR3 compared to other areas.

[0087] The spacers SP can be provided in plural, and the plural spacers SP can be provided to be spaced apart from each other on a plane. According to some example embodiments, the spacers SP are located in an area surrounded by two third emission areas EA_B, two second emission areas EA_G, and two first emission areas EA_R. However, the arrangement of the spacers SP is merely illustrative, and the spacers SP can be located in various positions and provided in a greater number when the spacers SP are capable of residing between the emission areas EA_R, EA_G, and EA_B, without being limited to a specific embodiment.

[0088] According to some example embodiments, the spacers SP and the pixel definition layer PDL can be connected to have an integrated shape. The spacers SP and the pixel definition layer PDL can be formed of the same material, and can be formed in a single process using one half-tone mask. Thus, it can be possible to omit a separate process for forming the spacers SP. However, the above discussion is merely illustrative, and the spacers SP can be formed to have a configuration separately from the pixel definition layer PDL, without being limited to a specific embodiment.

[0089] According to some example embodiments, the spacers SP can be designed to have a thickness T1 (hereinafter referred to as a first thickness) equal to or greater than a thickness T2 (hereinafter referred to as a second thickness) of the pixel definition layer PDL. For example, a ratio of the first thickness T1 to a total thickness TT (T1+T2) of the spacers SP and the pixel definition layer PDL can be equal to or greater than 0.5. In certain embodiments, when a reasonable portion of the first thickness T1 is controlled, a degree of bending can be easily designed for a top surface SP_S of the spacers SP or a top surface PDL_S of the pixel definition layer PDL. A more detailed description thereof will be further discussed below.

[0090] According to some example embodiments, the electronic panel EPP can further include the spacers SP, and thus can prevent damage to the pixel definition layer PDL caused by a mask when forming the emission pattern EP. In addition, control of the thicknesses of the spacers SP and the pixel definition layer PDL can easily adjust a reflection angle of external light (see FIG. 2 LS). Thus, generation of reflected light capable of causing glare to the eyes of a user can be reduced, thereby improving display characteristics of the electronic panel EPP.

[0091] FIG. 5 A cross-sectional view showing a portion of an electronic panel according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept is illustrated. FIG. 6A A graph showing a surface inclination angle of a pixel definition layer with respect to a distance is illustrated. FIG. 6B A graph showing a relationship between an emission angle and a surface inclination angle is illustrated. For ease of description, FIG. 5 A graph showing a relationship between a surface inclination angle and a distance is illustrated. FIG. 4BThe image shows an enlarged view of the selected pixel-defining layer (PDL) and spacer (SP) regions depicted in the components, and also shows arrows representing incident and reflected light. FIG. 6A The distance shown in the figure means relative to FIG. 5 The spacing between points PP is shown in the figure.

[0092] In the following text, reference will be made to FIG. 5 , FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B Some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are described below. (Refer to...) FIG. 1 to FIG. 3 , FIG. 4A as well as FIG. 4B Components that are substantially the same as those discussed are assigned the same reference numerals, and their repeated explanations will be omitted.

[0093] Each of the incident beams L1, L2, L3, and L4 can interact with external light (see...) FIG. 2 The corresponding LS). FIG. 5 Incident beams L1, L2, L3, and L4 are shown to be incident at the same incident angle A0. As an example, incident beams L1, L2, L3, and L4 are shown as including a first incident beam L1, a second incident beam L2, a third incident beam L3, and a fourth incident beam L4.

[0094] The first incident light L1 can be light incident on the pixel defining layer PDL and the second electrode E2. The first incident light L1 can be incident on the surface of the second electrode E2 covering the pixel defining layer PDL and at a position spaced apart from the spacer SP.

[0095] The first incident light L1 can be incident on the second electrode E2 and can generate a first reflected light LR1 reflected from the second electrode E2. The first reflected light LR1 can have an exit angle (or a first angle) A1 that is smaller than the incident angle A0.

[0096] The second incident light L2 can be light incident on the spacer SP. Depending on the reflection position, the second incident light L2 can generate a second reflected light LR2 or a third reflected light LR3. The second reflected light LR2 can be light reflected from the second electrode E2. The second reflected light LR2 can have an exit angle (or a second angle) A2.

[0097] The third reflected light LR3 can be light reflected from the first signal line SLa. At least a portion of the second incident light L2 can penetrate the second electrode E2, and then sequentially pass through the spacer SP, the pixel definition layer PDL, the third dielectric layer 30, and the second dielectric layer 20, thereby reaching the first signal line SLa. Light reflected from a side surface of the first signal line SLa can sequentially pass through the second dielectric layer 20, the third dielectric layer 30, the pixel definition layer PDL, and the spacer SP, and then pass through the second electrode E2, thereby being emitted as the third reflected light LR3. The third reflected light LR3 can have an emission angle (or a third angle) A3.

[0098] The third incident light L3 can be light incident on the pixel definition layer PDL, which then generates the fourth reflected light LR4 reflected from the second signal line SLb. The third incident light L3 can penetrate the second electrode E2 after being incident on a position spaced apart from the spacer SP, and then pass through the pixel definition layer PDL, the third dielectric layer 30, and the second dielectric layer 20, thereby reaching the second signal line SLb. The fourth reflected light LR4 can have an emission angle (or a fourth angle) A4.

[0099] The fourth incident light L4 can be light incident on the pixel definition layer PDL, which then generates the fifth reflected light LR5 reflected from the first electrode E1. The fourth incident light L4 is incident on the first electrode E1 after passing through the pixel definition layer PDL. Light reflected from the first electrode E1 can have an emission angle (or a fifth angle) A5 on a surface of the second electrode E2.

[0100] According to some example embodiments, when the incident angle A0 is 45°, each of the first angle A1, the second angle A2, the third angle A3, the fourth angle A4, and the fifth angle A5 can be less than 30°. As discussed above, reflected light emitted at an angle of 30° can cause visibility errors, such as glare to the user's eyes. According to some example embodiments, the reflected light LR1, LR2, LR3, LR4, and LR5 originating from the incident light L1, L2, L3, and L4 can be controlled to have a reflection angle (or an emission angle) different from or less than 30°, and thus the electronic panel EPP can be improved in visibility.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 6A The pixel definition layer PDL can have a surface inclination angle that is different based on a position. For ease of description, FIG. 6AThe curves PL-S1 and PL-P1 representative of the surface tilt angle at the representative distance are shown for the example in which the pixel-defining layer PDL has an average thickness of 2.1 pm, the curves PL-S2 and PL-P2 representative of the surface tilt angle at the representative distance are shown for the example in which the pixel-defining layer PDL has an average thickness of 2.5 pm, and the numbers indicating the surface tilt angle at the corresponding position are shown. The shapes of the curves PL-S1, PL-P1, PL-S2 and PL-P2 can all correspond to the surface curvature of the pixel-defining layer PDL according to some example embodiments of the present inventive concept.

[0102] FIG. 6B The relationship between the surface tilt angle and the emission angle is shown. A surface tilt angle greater than 0° means a convex curvature, a surface tilt angle less than 0° means a concave curvature. Referring to FIG. 6B It can be found that when the emission angle is 30°, the surface tilt angle is about 4°.

[0103] Returning to FIG. 6A As shown by the curves PL-S1 and PL-P1 for the example in which the pixel-defining layer PDL has an average thickness of 2.1 pm, the region of which the surface tilt angle is 4° exists in the distance range between 7 pm and 8 pm away from the distal end (0.0 pm) (average about 7.4 pm). As shown by the curves PL-S2 and PL-P2 for the example in which the pixel-defining layer PDL has an average thickness of 2.5 pm, the region of which the surface tilt angle is 4° exists in the distance range between 10.5 pm and 12 pm away from the distal end (0.0 pm) (average about 11.1 pm). The distal end (0.0 pm) can be a portion of the pixel-defining layer PDL that corresponds to the side of the opening OP and that adjoins the first electrode E1 to form a boundary between the portion and the first electrode E1.

[0104] Referring to the curves PL-S1, PL-P1, PL-S2 and PL-P2, it can be found that for the example in which the pixel-defining layer PDL has a relatively large average thickness of 2.5 pm, the region of which the surface tilt angle is 4° exists in a wider distance range on the curves PL-S2 and PL-P2. That is, the increase in the thickness of the pixel-defining layer PDL increases the range of the region of which the surface tilt angle is 4°, and also increases the reasonable portion of the reflected light that is emitted at an angle of 30° with respect to the light that is incident at an angle of 45°. Therefore, according to some example embodiments of the present inventive concept, a relative decrease in the thickness of the pixel-defining layer PDL can reduce the reasonable portion of the reflected light that is emitted at an angle of 30°, and can suppress the visibility defect caused by the reflection of the external light (see FIG. 2 LS).

[0105] FIG. 7A to FIG. 7C A graph showing intensity of scattered light against light receiving angle on a pixel defining layer according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept is shown. The light receiving angle can substantially correspond to an exit angle of the reflected light. FIG. 7A A graph related to a pixel defining layer PDL whose thickness is 1.2 pm is shown, FIG. 7B A graph related to a pixel defining layer PDL whose thickness is 1.5 pm is shown, FIG. 7C A graph related to a pixel defining layer PDL whose thickness is 1.8 pm is shown. Hereinafter, a description will be made with reference to FIG. 7A to FIG. 7C Aspects of some example embodiments of the inventive concept are described.

[0106] FIG. 7A A first curve PL-A1 showing intensity of scattered light against light receiving angle is shown for two examples whose pixel azimuth angle is 0°, and a second curve PL-A2 showing intensity of scattered light against light receiving angle is also shown for two examples whose pixel azimuth angle is 90°. As FIG. 7A As shown in FIG. 6A, each of the first curve PL-A1 and the second curve PL-A2 shows a tendency that intensity of scattered light rapidly increases at a light receiving angle of 30°.

[0107] The first curve PL-A1 shows that intensity of scattered light is about 3.8 cd / m 2 at a point PA1 where the light receiving angle is 30°, and shows that intensity of scattered light increases with a steep slope as the light receiving angle becomes greater than 30°. The second curve PL-A2 shows that intensity of scattered light is about 2.8 cd / m 2 at a point PA2 where the light receiving angle is 30°, and shows that intensity of scattered light increases with a steep slope as the light receiving angle becomes greater than 30°. It can thus be found that intensity of scattered light increases when the light receiving angle becomes equal to or greater than 30°, while a light leakage defect is likely to occur.

[0108] FIG. 7B A third curve PL-A3 showing intensity of scattered light against light receiving angle is shown for two examples whose pixel azimuth angle is 0°, and a fourth curve PL-A4 showing intensity of scattered light against light receiving angle is also shown for two examples whose pixel azimuth angle is 90°. As FIG. 7B As shown in FIG. 7A, each of the third curve PL-A3 and the fourth curve PL-A4 shows a tendency that intensity of scattered light sharply increases at a light receiving angle of 30°.

[0109] The third curve PL-A3 shows that intensity of scattered light is about 4.9 cd / m 2Furthermore, it shows that the intensity of the scattered light increases sharply with a steep slope when the light receiving angle becomes greater than 30°. The fourth curve, PL-A4, shows that the intensity of the scattered light at point PA4, where the light receiving angle is 30°, is approximately 3.4 cd / m². 2 Furthermore, it was shown that the intensity of the scattered light increases sharply when the light receiving angle becomes greater than 30°. Therefore, it can be observed that when the light receiving angle becomes equal to or greater than 30°, the intensity of the scattered light increases, making light leakage defects more likely to occur.

[0110] FIG. 7C The fifth curve PL-A5, showing the intensity of scattered light against the light-receiving angle, is shown for two examples with a pixel orientation angle of 0°. A sixth curve PL-A6, showing the intensity of scattered light against the light-receiving angle, is also shown for two examples with a pixel orientation angle of 90°. FIG. 7C As shown, each of the fifth curve PL-A5 and the sixth curve PL-A6 illustrates the trend of a sharp increase in the intensity of scattered light at a light reception angle of 30°.

[0111] The fifth curve, PL-A5, shows that the intensity of the scattered light at point PA5, with a light-receiving angle of 30°, is approximately 6.3 cd / m². 2 Furthermore, it shows that the intensity of the scattered light increases sharply with a steep slope when the light receiving angle becomes greater than 30°. Curve PL-A6 shows that the intensity of the scattered light at point PA6, where the light receiving angle is 30°, is approximately 4.2 cd / m². 2 Furthermore, it was shown that the intensity of the scattered light increases sharply when the light receiving angle becomes greater than 30°. Therefore, it can be observed that when the light receiving angle becomes equal to or greater than 30°, the intensity of the scattered light increases, making light leakage defects more likely to occur.

[0112] Reference FIG. 7A to FIG. 7C It can be observed that, such as FIG. 7A As shown, an example where the pixel-defining layer (PDL) has a relatively small thickness of 1.2 μm exhibits relatively low scattered light intensity at the same 30° light reception angle. According to some exemplary embodiments conceived in this invention, the smaller the thickness of the PDL, the lower the intensity of reflected light at its emission angle of 30°, which produces visibility errors. Therefore, the visibility of the electronic panel (EPP) can be improved.

[0113] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B A graph illustrating the changes in brightness according to some example embodiments of the concept according to the present invention is shown. FIG. 8A The brightness of the scattered light in each of the first example EX-A, the second example EX-B, and the third example EX-C is shown. FIG. 8BThe luminance ratio of the scattered light in each of the first example EX-A, the second example EX-B, and the third example EX-C is shown. FIG. 8B The luminance ratio shown in the middle is obtained when the luminance of the first example EX-A is used as a reference value of 1.

[0114] The first example EX-A, the second example EX-B, and the third example EX-C can have different thickness ratios between the pixel defining layer PDL and the spacer SP. According to some example embodiments, the first example EX-A, the second example EX-B, and the third example EX-C can be designed to have the same total thickness (see FIG. 4B of the TT), but designed to have different first thicknesses (see FIG. 4B of the T1) or second thicknesses (see FIG. 4B of the T2).

[0115] For example, the first example EX-A, which has a total thickness TT of 3.94 pm, can include a pixel defining layer PDL having a thickness of 1.8 pm and a spacer SP having a thickness of 2.14 pm. In this case, the ratio of the first thickness T1 to the total thickness TT can be 0.54.

[0116] The second example EX-B, which has a total thickness TT of 3.94 pm, can include a pixel defining layer PDL having a thickness of 1.50 pm and a spacer SP having a thickness of 2.44 pm. In this case, the ratio of the first thickness T1 to the total thickness TT can be 0.62.

[0117] The third example EX-C, which has a total thickness TT of 3.94 pm, can include a pixel defining layer PDL having a thickness of 1.20 pm and a spacer SP having a thickness of 2.74 pm. In this case, the ratio of the first thickness T1 to the total thickness TT can be 0.70.

[0118] Referring to FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B When the thickness of the spacer SP becomes relatively larger and the thickness of the pixel defining layer PDL becomes relatively smaller, the luminance of the scattered light can become reduced. For example, the greater the ratio of the thickness of the spacer SP to the thickness of the pixel defining layer PDL, the greater the reduction in the luminance of the scattered light. In some example embodiments, the ratio of the thickness of the pixel defining layer PDL to the total thickness of the pixel defining layer PDL and the spacer SP can be equal to or less than 0.3.

[0119] According to some example embodiments, compared to the third curve PL-B2 shown in FIG. 8A and the fourth curve PL-B3 shown in FIG. 8B of FIG. 8A the first curve PL-B1 shown inFIG. 8B The second curve PL-B4 shown in the middle can be related to an example in which a reasonable portion of the spacer SP is relatively small. For example, each of the first curve PL-B1 and the second curve PL-B4 can relate to an example in which the ratio of the length of the pixel-defining layer PDL to the total length of the pixel-defining layer PDL and the spacer SP is 0.81 (where these lengths extend in one direction in the unit area), and each of the third curve PL-B2 and the fourth curve PL-B3 can relate to an example in which the length ratio is 0.88. According to some example embodiments, an effect of brightness improvement can be observed on the third curve PL-B2 and the fourth curve PL-B3 in which the pixel-defining layer PDL has a reasonable portion in which its length is relatively large.

[0120] According to some example embodiments, when the ratio of the thickness of the spacer SP to the total thickness of the pixel-defining layer PDL and the spacer SP is designed to be equal to or greater than 0.5, or when the thickness of the spacer SP is designed to be greater than the thickness of the pixel-defining layer PDL, the brightness of the scattered light can be reduced. Thus, the electronic panel EPP can be improved in visibility.

[0121] FIG. 9 A plan view showing a portion of an electronic panel according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept is shown. FIG. 10A to FIG. 10D A graph showing the brightness of scattered light against the azimuth angle of a pixel according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept is shown. Hereinafter, reference will be made to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10A to FIG. 10D Aspects of some example embodiments of the inventive concept are described. Those components substantially the same as those discussed with reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 8B those components are assigned the same reference numerals, and a repeated explanation thereof will be omitted.

[0122] FIG. 9 An opening OP defining one emission area EA is shown. The opening OP can include a first side surface OP_1, a second side surface OP_2, a third side surface OP_3, and a fourth side surface OP_4. According to some example embodiments, the first side surface OP_1 and the third side surface OP_3 can be parallel and opposite to each other. The second side surface OP_2 and the fourth side surface OP_4 can be parallel and opposite to each other.

[0123] Each of the first side surface OP_1, the second side surface OP_2, the third side surface OP_3, and the fourth side surface OP_4 can be inclined with respect to a reference line RX. The reference line RX can be an imaginary line extending in a direction parallel to one of the first side surface, the second side surface, the third side surface, and the fourth side surface (see S1, S2, S3, and S4 of FIG. 1). FIG. 3 The reference line RX can extend in a direction parallel to one of the first side surface, the second side surface, the third side surface, and the fourth side surface (see S1, S2, S3, and S4 of FIG. 1).FIG. 3 external light (see FIG. 2 LS) is extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the external light (see

[0124] The extension line EXL1 of the first side OP_1 can be inclined with respect to the reference line RX with a first acute angle AG11 and a first obtuse angle AG12. In certain embodiments, the first acute angle AG11 can be designed to have a range of 45° ± 15°, and the first obtuse angle AG12 can be designed to have a range of 135° ± 15°. For example, the first acute angle AG11 can have a range between 30° and 60°, and the first obtuse angle AG12 can have a range between 120° and 150°.

[0125] The extension line EXL2 of the second side OP_2 can be inclined with respect to the reference line RX with a second acute angle AG21 and a second obtuse angle AG22. In certain embodiments, the second acute angle AG21 can be designed to have a range of 45° ± 15°, and the second obtuse angle AG22 can be designed to have a range of 135° ± 15°. For example, the second acute angle AG21 can have a range between 30° and 60°, and the second obtuse angle AG22 can have a range between 120° and 150°. According to some example embodiments, the sum of the first acute angle AG11 and the second acute angle AG21 can be 90°.

[0126] The third side OP_3 can extend in the same direction as the first side OP_1, and can have the first acute angle AG11 and the first obtuse angle AG12 with respect to the reference line RX. Similarly, the fourth side OP_4 can extend in the same direction as the second side OP_2, and can have the second acute angle AG21 and the second obtuse angle AG22 with respect to the reference line RX.

[0127] Referring to FIG. 10A to FIG. 10D , it can be determined how the brightness of the scattered light changes with the azimuth angle. In FIG. 10A to FIG. 10D , different electronic panels are used respectively. For example, in FIG. 10A to FIG. 10D , sample 1, sample 2, sample 3 and sample 4 are used respectively. Sample 1 and sample 2 can be rigid type electronic panels. Sample 3 and sample 4 can be flexible type electronic panels. Sample 1 and sample 2 can have slight differences occurring in the manufacturing process. Similarly, sample 3 and sample 4 can also have slight differences. The azimuth angle can correspond to the first acute angle AG11 (or the angle of the first side OP_1 with respect to the reference line RX). For ease of description, in FIG. 10A to FIG. 10D , circles are drawn to indicate the azimuth angles of 0°, 45°, 90°, 135° and 180°.

[0128] In FIG. 10A , the first curve PL-C1 shows the luminance of the scattered light whose light receiving angle is 30°, and the second curve PL-C2 shows the luminance of the scattered light whose light receiving angle is 15°. Referring to FIG. 10A , the luminance of the scattered light is relatively low within the first range Rla and the second range R2a. For example, within the first range Rla and the second range R2a, a light leakage defect can be suppressed, and the intensity of the reflected light that causes glare can be reduced. In this case, the first range Rla falls within a range of 45° ± 15°, and the second range R2a falls within a range of 135° ± 15°.

[0129] In FIG. 10B , the third curve PL-C3 shows the luminance of the scattered light whose light receiving angle is 30°, and the fourth curve PL-C4 shows the luminance of the scattered light whose light receiving angle is 15°. Referring to FIG. 10B , the luminance of the scattered light is relatively low within the first range Rlb and the second range R2b. For example, within the first range Rlb and the second range R2b, a light leakage defect can be suppressed, and the intensity of the reflected light that causes glare can be reduced. In this case, the first range Rlb falls within a range of 45° ± 15°, and the second range R2b falls within a range of 135° ± 15°.

[0130] In FIG. 10C , the fifth curve PL-C5 shows the luminance of the scattered light whose light receiving angle is 30°, and the sixth curve PL-C6 shows the luminance of the scattered light whose light receiving angle is 15°. Referring to FIG. 10C , compared to the first curve PL-C1, the second curve PL-C2, the third curve PL-C3, and the fourth curve PL-C4, the fifth curve PL-C5 has a relatively high luminance of the scattered light at the azimuthal angles of 0°, 90°, and 180°.

[0131] Further, the luminance of the scattered light is relatively low within the first range Rlc and the second range R2c. For example, within the first range Rlc and the second range R2c, a light leakage defect can be suppressed, and the intensity of the reflected light that causes glare can be reduced. In this case, the first range Rlc falls within a range of 45° ± 15°, and the second range R2c falls within a range of 135° ± 15°.

[0132] In FIG. 10D , the seventh curve PL-C7 shows the luminance of the scattered light whose light receiving angle is 30°, and the eighth curve PL-C8 shows the luminance of the scattered light whose light receiving angle is 15°. Referring to FIG. 10DThe seventh curve PL-C7 has a relatively high scattered light luminance at an azimuth angle of 0°, 90°, and 180°, compared to the first curve PL-C1, the second curve PL-C2, the third curve PL-C3, and the fourth curve PL-C4.

[0133] Further, the luminance of the scattered light is relatively low within the first range R1d and the second range R2d. For example, within the first range R1d and the second range R2d, a light leakage defect can be suppressed, and the intensity of the reflected light causing glare can be reduced. In this case, the first range R1d falls within a range of 45°±15°, and the second range R2d falls within a range of 135°±15°.

[0134] According to some example embodiments, when the first acute angle AG11 is designed to fall within a range of 45°±15° or 135°±15°, it can be possible to reduce the generation of reflected light causing glare that is reflected at an emission angle of 30°. Accordingly, the electronic panel EPP can be provided with an improvement in visibility and display characteristics.

[0135] FIG. 11A A plan view partially showing a comparative example is shown. FIG. 11B A plan view showing a portion of an electronic panel according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept is shown. FIG. 11C An image capturing a comparative example is shown. FIG. 11D An image capturing an electronic panel according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept is shown. FIG. 11C and FIG. 11D Images capturing a light leakage defect on an electronic panel shown in FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B are shown. Hereinafter, aspects of some example embodiments of the inventive concept will be described with reference to FIG. 11A to FIG. 11D The same components as those discussed with reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 10D are substantially the same, and some repetitive explanations thereof will be omitted.

[0136] With reference to FIG. 11A , each of the emission areas EA_R1, EA_G1, and EA_B1 can have a side surface inclined at an angle of 0° or 90° with respect to the reference line.

[0137] For example, the first side surfaces OP_R1A, OP_G1A, and OP_B1A can extend at an angle of 0° with respect to a direction (hereinafter, referred to as a reference line direction DRb) perpendicular to the incident direction DRa of the external light LS. For example, the first side surfaces OP_R1A, OP_G1A, and OP_B1A can extend along a direction parallel to the reference line direction DRb, and can be parallel to the reference line direction DRb. Also, the second side surfaces OP_R2A, OP_G2A, and OP_B2A can extend at an angle of 90° with respect to the reference line direction DRb.

[0138] In contrast, referring to FIG. 2B, FIG. 11B According to some example embodiments of the inventive concept, each of the emission areas EA_R2, EA_G2, and EA_B2 can have side surfaces inclined at an angle with respect to the reference line direction DRb. The inclination angle can satisfy a range of 45° ± 15° or 135° ± 15°.

[0139] For example, the first side surfaces OP_R1B, OP_G1B, and OP_B1B can be inclined at an angle of 45° ± 15° with respect to the reference line direction DRb of the external light LS. Also, the second side surfaces OP_R2B, OP_G2B, and OP_B2B can extend at an angle of 135° ± 15° with respect to the reference line direction DRb.

[0140] Referring to FIG. 2B, FIG. 11C Among the reflected light originating from the external light LS, light reflected at an exit angle of 30° is shown by a plurality of straight lines. As shown in FIG. 11C , the reflected light can be substantially identified as a light leakage defect. In FIG. 11C , a dotted line is drawn to indicate scattered light generated from one of the first side surfaces OP_R1A, OP_G1A, and OP_B1A shown in FIG. 11A

[0141] In contrast, referring to FIG. 2B, FIG. 11D Among the reflected light originating from the external light LS, light reflected at an exit angle of 30° is shown by a plurality of points. In contrast to FIG. 11C , the light leakage defect shown in FIG. 11D is relatively less identified. In FIG. 11D , a dotted line is drawn to indicate scattered light generated from one of the vertices of the emission areas EA_R2, EA_G2, and EA_B2 shown in FIG. 11B

[0142] According to some example embodiments, an electronic panel (see FIG. 3 ​​The electronic panel EPP) can include first side surfaces OP_R1B, OP_G1B and OP_B1B inclined at an angle of 45°±15° or second side surfaces OP_R2B, OP_G2B and OP_B2B inclined at an angle of 135°±15°, which can cause a light leakage defect occurring on the emission areas EA_R2, EA_G2 and EA_B2 to be reduced. Accordingly, the electronic panel EPP can be improved in visibility.

[0143] FIG. 12A A plan view partially showing a comparative example is shown. FIG. 12B A plan view showing a portion of an electronic panel according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept is shown. FIG. 12C An image capturing a comparative example is shown. FIG. 12D An image capturing an electronic panel according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept is shown. FIG. 12C and FIG. 12D An image capturing a light leakage defect on an electronic panel shown in FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B An image capturing a light leakage defect on an electronic panel shown in FIG. 12A to FIG. 12D Aspects of some example embodiments of the inventive concept will now be described with reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 11D Those components that are substantially the same as those discussed with reference to

[0144] With reference to FIG. 12A , the comparative example includes emission areas EA_R3, EA_G3 and EA_B3 and a spacer SP_A. The emission areas EA_R3, EA_G3 and EA_B3 can include first side surfaces OP_R1C, OP_G1C and OP_B1C extending at an angle of 0° with respect to the reference line direction DRb, and can further include second side surfaces OP_R2C, OP_G2C and OP_B2C extending at an angle of 90° with respect to the reference line direction DRb. The spacer SP_A can include a first side wall P1A extending at an angle of 0° with respect to the reference line direction DRb, a second side wall P2A inclined to the reference line direction DRb, and a third side wall P3A.

[0145] The second side wall P2A can be inclined at an angle of 135°±15° with respect to the reference line direction DRb. The third side wall P3A can be inclined at an angle of 45°±15° with respect to the reference line direction DRb.

[0146] With reference to FIG. 14B , an electronic panel according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept (see FIG. 3The emission area EA_R4, EA_G4, and EA_B4 can include first side surfaces OP_R1D, OP_G1D, and OP_B1D extending at an angle of 0° with respect to the reference line direction DRb, and can further include second side surfaces OP_R2D, OP_G2D, and OP_B2D extending at an angle of 90° with respect to the reference line direction DRb. The spacer SP_B can include a first side wall P1B extending at an angle of 90° with respect to the reference line direction DRb, a second side wall P2B inclined with respect to the reference line direction DRb, and a third side wall P3B.

[0147] The second side wall P2B can be inclined at an angle of 45°±15° with respect to the reference line direction DRb. The third side wall P3B can be inclined at an angle of 135°±15° with respect to the reference line direction DRb.

[0148] Referring to FIG. 12C It can be found that a light leakage defect is generated by the first side wall P1A of the spacer SP_A according to the comparative example. The first side wall P1A extends along a direction substantially perpendicular to the external light LS. Since the intensity of the scattered light is high at the first side wall P1A inclined at an angle of 0° with respect to the reference line direction DRb, the light leakage defect can significantly occur.

[0149] On the contrary, referring to FIG. 12D It can be found that a light leakage defect occurring at one or more of the vertices of the spacer SP_B according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept is relatively smaller than the light leakage defect shown in FIG. 12C For example, among the dotted circles, the circle placed on the relatively left side indicates the scattered light generated at a vertex between the second side wall P2B and the third side wall P3B of the spacer SP_B, which is a position first contacted with the external light LS.

[0150] According to some example embodiments, when the side walls P2B and P3B of the spacer SP_B first receiving the external light LS are designed to be inclined with respect to the reference line direction DRb, it can be possible to reduce the light leakage defect caused by the spacer SP_B. In this case, the side walls P2B and P3B of the spacer SP_B can be designed to have an inclination angle of 45°±15° or 135°±15° with respect to the reference line direction DRb. Accordingly, the electronic panel EPP can be provided to have improved visibility.

[0151] FIG. 13A A plan view partially showing a comparative example is illustrated. FIG. 13B A plan view partially showing an electronic panel according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept is illustrated. FIG. 13CAn image of capturing a comparative example is shown. FIG. 13D An image of capturing an electronic panel according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept is shown. FIG. 13C and FIG. 13D An image of capturing FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B a light leakage defect on the electronic panel shown in FIG. 13A to FIG. 13D Aspects of some example embodiments of the inventive concept will now be described with reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 12D Those components that are substantially the same as those discussed with reference to

[0152] With reference to FIG. 13A , the comparative example includes emission areas EA_Ra, EA_Ga, and EA_Ba, and further includes a mesh line MSL_A. The mesh line MSL_A is disposed on a pixel definition layer PDL. According to some example embodiments, a specific dielectric layer can be located between the emission element (see, for example, EE of FIG. 4B and the mesh line MSL_A. Thus, an electrical connection can be prevented between the emission element EE and the mesh line MSL_A.

[0153] The mesh line MSL_A can be a sensor that detects an external pressure. The external pressure can mean a pressure caused by a user’s hand, a conductor, heat, light, etc., and can further include a contact, a proximity, a press, etc., with respect to a display surface (see FS of FIG. 1 .

[0154] The mesh line MSL_A can include a first mesh line MS1A and a second mesh line MS2A. Each of the first mesh line MS1A and the second mesh line MS2A can be formed of a conductive material. The first mesh line MS1A and the second mesh line MS2A can be connected to define an opening. The opening can overlap with the corresponding emission areas EA_Ra, EA_Ga, and EA_Ba.

[0155] The first mesh line MS1A extends along an incident direction DRa of external light LS, and the second mesh line MS2A extends along a reference line direction DRb. The first mesh line MS1A can be inclined at an angle of 90° with respect to the reference line direction DRb, and the second mesh line MS2A can extend at an angle of 0° with respect to the reference line direction DRb.

[0156] With reference to FIG. 13B , an electronic panel (see FIG. 3The EPP of FIG. 10B includes emission areas EA_Rb, EA_Gb, and EA_Bb, and further includes a mesh line MSL_B. The emission areas EA_Rb, EA_Gb, and EA_Bb include their side surfaces oblique to the reference line direction DRb. The side surfaces of the emission areas EA_Rb, EA_Gb, and EA_Bb can extend in directions corresponding to the side surfaces (see FIG. 10A) of OP_R1B, OP_G1B, and OP_B1B and OP_R2B, OP_G2B, and OP_B2B in FIG. 10A. Repetitive descriptions will be omitted below. FIG. 11B FIG. 11B

[0157] The mesh line MSL_B is located on the pixel definition layer PDL. The mesh line MSL_B includes a first mesh line MS1B and a second mesh line MS2B. The first mesh line MS1B and the second mesh line MS2B are connected to define an opening. The opening exposes the corresponding emission areas EA_Rb, EA_Gb, and EA_Bb.

[0158] Each of the first mesh line MS1B and the second mesh line MS2B can be oblique to the reference line direction DRb. The first mesh line MS1B and the second mesh line MS2B can be oblique to the reference line direction DRb at an angle of 45° ± 15° or 135° ± 15°. For example, the first mesh line MS1B can be oblique to the reference line direction DRb at an angle of 45° ± 15°. The second mesh line MS2B can be oblique to the reference line direction DRb at an angle of 135° ± 15°.

[0159] Referring to FIG. 10B, FIG. 13C the dotted line can represent a light leakage defect caused by the second mesh line MS2A among the mesh lines MSL_A according to a comparative example. Since the second mesh line MS2A extends along a direction perpendicular to the external light LS, the second mesh line MS2A causes high-intensity scattered light. Thus, the mesh lines MSL_A can significantly generate the light leakage defect.

[0160] In contrast, referring to FIG. 10B, FIG. 13D the dotted line can represent a light leakage defect occurring at a vertex of the mesh line MSL_B according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept. For example, the vertex can correspond to a point at which the first mesh line MS1B and the second mesh line MS2B meet. In comparison with FIG. 13C it can be found that the light leakage defect is relatively reduced.

[0161] ​​According to some example embodiments, the first mesh line MS1B and the second mesh line MS2B constituting the mesh line MSL_B can be designed to be inclined to the reference line direction DRb, which can make light leakage defects caused by the mesh line MSL_B reduced. In this case, the first mesh line MS1B and the second mesh line MS2B can be designed to have an inclination angle of 45°±15° or 135°±15° with respect to the reference line direction DRb. Accordingly, the electronic panel EPP can be provided to have improved visibility.

[0162] FIG. 14A A plan view partially showing a comparative example is illustrated. FIG. 14B A plan view partially showing an electronic panel according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept is illustrated. FIG. 14C An image capturing a comparative example is illustrated. FIG. 14D An image capturing an electronic panel according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept is illustrated. FIG. 14C and FIG. 14D Images capturing light leakage defects on the electronic panel illustrated in FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B are illustrated. Hereinafter, aspects of some example embodiments of the inventive concept will be described with reference to FIG. 14A to FIG. 14D The aspects of some example embodiments of the inventive concept will be described with reference to those components which are substantially the same as those discussed with reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 13D Those components which are substantially the same as those discussed with reference to those components which are substantially the same as those discussed with reference to

[0163] In FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B , a dotted line is drawn to indicate the signal lines SL_A and SL_B. As discussed above, the signal lines SL_A and SL_B can be disposed under the pixel definition layer PDL. As FIG. 14A illustrated in , the signal line SL_A according to the comparative example can extend along a direction parallel to the reference line direction DRb. According to the comparative example, an inclination angle of 0° can be formed between the reference line direction DRb and the signal line SL_A.

[0164] FIG. 14B On the contrary, as illustrated in , the signal line SL_B according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept can extend along a direction inclined to the reference line direction DRb. The signal line SL_B according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept can be inclined at an angle of 45°±15° or 135°±15° with respect to the reference line direction DRb. According to some example embodiments, the signal line SL_B is illustrated to have an inclination angle of 135°±15° with respect to the reference line direction DRb.

[0165] FIG. 14C, the dotted line can represent a light leakage defect caused by a portion of the signal line SL_A according to the comparative example. Because the signal line SL_A according to the comparative example extends along a direction perpendicular to the external light LS, the intensity of the scattered light is high at the signal line SL_A. Thus, the signal line SL_A can significantly generate a light leakage defect.

[0166] In contrast, referring to FIG. 14D , the dotted line can represent a light leakage defect occurring at one end of the signal line SL_B according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept. Compared to FIG. 14C , it can be found that the light leakage defect is relatively reduced at the electronic panel (see FIG. 3 EPP) according to some example embodiments of the inventive concept.

[0167] According to some example embodiments, when the signal line SL_B is designed to extend obliquely to the reference line direction DRb, it can be possible to reduce a light leakage defect caused by the signal line SL_B. In this case, the signal line SL_B can be designed to have an oblique angle of 45° ± 15° or 135° ± 15° with respect to the reference line direction DRb. Thus, the electronic panel EPP can be provided to have improved visibility.

[0168] According to some example embodiments, since the occurrence of reflected light that causes a defect such as glare caused by external light is reduced, the visibility of the electronic panel can be improved. In addition, since the occurrence of internal light leakage defects is reduced, the visibility of the electronic panel can also be improved. Furthermore, the electronic panel having improved visibility can provide an electronic device that is easily operated by a user.

[0169] Although aspects of some example embodiments have been described with reference to a few illustrative examples, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that various changes in form and details can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the inventive concept as set forth in the following claims and their equivalents.

[0170] Accordingly, the technical scope of the inventive concept is not limited to the above-described embodiments and examples, but is defined by the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An electronic panel comprising: a base substrate including a front surface, a rear surface opposite to the front surface, and a plurality of side surfaces connecting the front surface and the rear surface to each other; a pixel-defining layer on the front surface of the base substrate and having a plurality of openings defined therein; a plurality of emission elements including a plurality of first electrodes respectively in the plurality of openings; a spacer on the pixel-defining layer and spaced apart from the plurality of openings, wherein the spacer is configured to control a reflection angle of light incident on the spacer to be different from or less than 30°; a plurality of signal lines between the base substrate and the pixel-defining layer and including a first signal line and a second signal line spaced apart from the plurality of first electrodes in a plan view, wherein the spacer is superposed on one of the first signal line and the second signal line, wherein a thickness of the spacer is equal to or greater than a thickness of the pixel-defining layer, and wherein the spacer includes a first sidewall extending in a direction inclined at a first angle with respect to an extension direction of a first side surface among the plurality of side surfaces when viewed from the front surface, wherein the first angle is within a range of 45°±15° or 135°±15°, and a second sidewall extending in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the first side surface when viewed from the front surface.

2. The electronic panel of claim 1, wherein, The pixel-defining layer and the spacer have an integrated shape.

3. The electronic panel of claim 2, wherein, A ratio of the thickness of the pixel-defining layer to a sum of thicknesses of the pixel-defining layer and the spacer is equal to or less than 0.

3.

4. The electronic panel of claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of openings includes: a first side extending in a direction inclined at a first angle with respect to the extension direction of the first side surface among the plurality of side surfaces when viewed from the front surface, and a second side connected to the first side and extending in a direction inclined at a second angle with respect to the extension direction of the first side surface, wherein one or more of the first angle and the second angle is within a range of 45°±15° or 135°±15°.

5. The electronic panel of claim 1, wherein, The spacer further includes: a third sidewall connected to the first sidewall and extending in a direction inclined at a second angle with respect to the extension direction of the first side surface, wherein the second angle is within a range of 45°±15° or 135°±15°.

6. The electronic panel of claim 1, wherein, An angle between the extension direction of the first side surface among the plurality of side surfaces and an extension direction of each of the plurality of signal lines is within a range of 45°±15° or 135°±15° when viewed from the front surface.

7. The electronic panel of claim 6, wherein, The plurality of signal lines are superposed on the pixel-defining layer when viewed in a plan. 8.The electronic panel of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of grid lines on the pixel-defining layer and having a plurality of grid openings defined therein, the plurality of grid openings corresponding to the plurality of openings of the pixel-defining layer, wherein, The plurality of grid lines includes first grid lines extending along one direction and second grid lines extending along an intersecting direction intersecting the one direction, wherein, when viewed from the front surface, an angle between the extending direction of the first side surface among the plurality of side surfaces and each of the one direction and the intersecting direction is within a range of 45° ± 15° or 135° ± 15°. 9.An electronic device comprising the electronic panel according to claim 1 and a housing unit accommodating the electronic panel, wherein in the electronic panel, the plurality of side surfaces includes the first side surface, a second side surface, a third side surface, and a fourth side surface; the plurality of openings in the pixel-defining layer correspond to the plurality of emission regions and include first and second sides connected to each other; a plurality of thin-film transistors is located between the base substrate and the pixel-defining layer, the plurality of thin-film transistors being connected to corresponding emission elements; the plurality of signal lines is connected to corresponding thin-film transistors; wherein, when viewed from the front surface, the first side, the second side, and at least one of the first and second signal lines extend at an inclined angle with respect to the first side surface, and wherein a minimum value of the inclined angle is within a range of 45° ± 15°.

10. The electronic device of claim 9, wherein, each of the plurality of emission elements further includes: a second electrode located on the first electrode and covering the pixel-defining layer; and an emission pattern located between the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein the first and second sides are portions of the pixel-defining layer in contact with the first electrode.

11. The electronic device of claim 10, wherein, the spacer is covered by the second electrode.

12. The electronic device of claim 9, wherein, the spacer and the pixel-defining layer have an integrated shape.

13. The electronic device of claim 9, wherein, a ratio of the thickness of the pixel-defining layer to a sum of thicknesses of the pixel-defining layer and the spacer is equal to or less than 0.

3.

14. The electronic device of claim 9, wherein, when viewed from the front surface, the spacer further includes: a third side wall having a second angle with respect to the first side surface, the third side wall being connected to the first side wall, wherein each of the first and second angles has a range of 45° ± 15°.

15. The electronic device of claim 14, wherein, the first and third side walls of the spacer face the first side surface among the first and second side surfaces opposite to each other. 16.The electronic device according to claim 9, further comprising a plurality of grid lines located on the pixel-defining layer and having a plurality of grid openings defined therein, the plurality of grid openings corresponding to the plurality of emission regions, wherein when viewed from the front surface, an extending direction of each of the plurality of grid lines is inclined at a certain angle with respect to the first side surface, wherein a minimum value of the certain angle is within a range of 45° ± 15°.

17. The electronic device of claim 9, wherein, the housing unit is a motor vehicle.

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