Sensing unit and display device having the same

By designing a specific sensing unit structure in the display device and utilizing the first conductive layer, the insulating layer and the second conductive layer to avoid sensing lines from crossing, the problem that the sensing lines are prone to short circuit in the prior art is solved, and a more efficient solution is achieved. High reliability and stability.

CN112909048BActive Publication Date: 2025-01-21SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202011387086.X
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2019-12-04
Filing Date
2020-12-01
Publication Date
2025-01-21
Estimated Expiration
2040-12-01

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In the conventional display device, sensing lines are prone to cross in the plan view, which increases the possibility of short circuits and is difficult to effectively prevent.

Method used

A sensing unit is designed, including a first conductive layer, an insulating layer and a second conductive layer. Through a specific line structure and connection method, the sensing lines are prevented from crossing in the plan view, thereby reducing the risk of short circuit.

Benefits of technology

This effectively prevents short circuits between sensing lines and improves the reliability and stability of the display device.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

A sensing unit and a display device having the sensing unit are provided. The sensing unit includes a first conductive layer, an insulating layer, and a second conductive layer disposed on the insulating layer, the first conductive layer includes a first line portion, the first line portion includes a first auxiliary sensing line, a second auxiliary sensing line, and a connecting line. The second conductive layer includes an electrode portion and a second line portion, the electrode portion includes a first sensing pattern and a second sensing pattern, the second line portion includes a first sensing line overlapping with the first auxiliary sensing line and electrically connected to the first sensing pattern, and a second sensing line overlapping with the second auxiliary sensing line. The first sensing line is disposed between the second sensing pattern and the second sensing line, the connecting line does not overlap with the first auxiliary sensing line, the connecting line crosses the first sensing line in a plan view, and the second sensing line is electrically connected to the second sensing pattern through a contact hole defined through the insulating layer.
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Description

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2019-0159958, filed on Dec. 4, 2019, which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes as if fully set forth herein. Technical Field

[0002] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate to a display device, and more particularly, to a sensing unit and a display device having the same. Background Art

[0003] The display device includes a display panel that displays an image and a sensing unit that senses an external input. The display panel includes a display area in which an image is actually viewed from the outside. The sensing unit includes a sensing area in which the external input is sensed and a peripheral area defined as being adjacent to the sensing area and provided with a signal line arranged therein. The signal lines arranged in the peripheral area are respectively connected to the sensing electrodes arranged in the sensing area.

[0004] The display device displays an image through a display area having various shapes and sizes. The sensing area and the peripheral area of ​​the sensing unit are defined in consideration of the shape of the display area. In recent years, due to various shapes of the display area, some of the sensing lines arranged in the peripheral area cross each other in a plan view, which increases the possibility of a short circuit.

[0005] 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

[0006] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are directed to a sensing unit capable of preventing a short circuit between sensing lines crossing each other in a plan view among sensing lines.

[0007] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate to a display device having a sensing unit.

[0008] 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.

[0009] An exemplary embodiment of the inventive concept provides a sensing unit, the sensing unit including a first conductive layer, an insulating layer, and a second conductive layer, the first conductive layer including a first line portion, the first line portion including a first auxiliary sensing line, a second auxiliary sensing line, and a connecting line, one end of the connecting line is connected to the second auxiliary sensing line, the insulating layer covers the first conductive layer, and the second conductive layer is disposed on the insulating layer. The second conductive layer includes an electrode portion and a second line portion, the electrode portion includes a first sensing pattern and a second sensing pattern spaced apart from the first sensing pattern in a plan view, the second line portion includes a first sensing line overlapping the first auxiliary sensing line and electrically connected to the first sensing pattern, and a second sensing line overlapping the second auxiliary sensing line and spaced apart from the first sensing line. The first sensing line is disposed between the second sensing pattern and the second sensing line, and the connecting line does not overlap the first auxiliary sensing line, the connecting line crosses the first sensing line in a plan view, and the second sensing line is electrically connected to the second sensing pattern through a contact hole defined through the insulating layer.

[0010] The second conductive layer may further include a connection electrode connected to an end of the second sensing pattern, and the first conductive layer may further include an auxiliary connection electrode electrically connected to the connection electrode through a first contact hole among the contact holes and connected to the other end of the connection line.

[0011] The second sensing line is electrically connected to the second auxiliary sensing line through a second contact hole among the contact holes.

[0012] The first sensing line may include a first line portion having a first line width and a second line portion having a second line width greater than the first line width, and the connection line crosses the second line portion in a plan view.

[0013] A line width of the second line portion of the first sensing line may be greater than a line width of the second sensing line.

[0014] The opening may be defined to pass through the second line portion of the first sensing line and to extend in a longitudinal direction of the first sensing line, and the connection line may overlap the opening.

[0015] The first auxiliary sensing line may include a first auxiliary portion overlapping the first line portion and a second auxiliary portion overlapping the second line portion and spaced apart from the first auxiliary portion, and the connection line may be disposed in a space between the first auxiliary portion and the second auxiliary portion.

[0016] The second sensing line may include a first line region and a second line region having line widths different from each other, and the connection line may be connected to the second auxiliary sensing line overlapping the second line region having a line width greater than that of the first line region.

[0017] The connection line may include a first connection line crossing the first sensing line and electrically connecting the second sensing line and the second sensing pattern; and a second connection line spaced apart from the first connection line, crossing the first sensing line and electrically connecting the second sensing line and the second sensing pattern.

[0018] Each of the first and second connection lines may include a plurality of sub-connection lines crossing the first sensing line and spaced apart from each other.

[0019] The electrode portion may further include a plurality of first sensing electrodes and a plurality of second sensing electrodes, the plurality of first sensing electrodes extending in a first direction and arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the plurality of second sensing electrodes arranged in the first direction and extending in the second direction. Each of the first sensing electrodes may include a plurality of first sensing patterns and a first connection pattern connecting the first sensing patterns, and each of the plurality of second sensing electrodes may include a plurality of second sensing patterns. The second line portion may include a plurality of first sensing lines respectively connected to the first sensing electrodes and a plurality of second sensing lines respectively connected to the second sensing electrodes.

[0020] The first sensing line may be one of the first sensing lines that is closest to the second sensing line, and the second sensing line may be one of the second sensing lines that is closest to the first sensing line.

[0021] The second sensing line may include a first sub-sensing line and a second sub-sensing line spaced apart from the first sub-sensing line, with the second sensing electrode interposed between the first sub-sensing line and the second sub-sensing line, the first sub-sensing lines being respectively connected to one end of corresponding second sensing electrodes among the second sensing electrodes, and the second sub-sensing lines being respectively connected to the other ends of other corresponding second sensing electrodes among the second sensing electrodes.

[0022] The first conductive layer may include second connection patterns electrically connecting the second sensing patterns to each other.

[0023] Another exemplary embodiment of the inventive concept provides a display device, the display device including a display panel and a sensing unit, the sensing unit being disposed on the display panel and including a sensing region and a peripheral region adjacent to the sensing region, the sensing region and the peripheral region being defined in the sensing unit. The sensing unit includes: an electrode portion overlapping the sensing region and including a first sensing electrode and a second sensing electrode spaced apart from the first sensing electrode in a plan view; a line portion overlapping the peripheral region and including a first sensing line connected to the first sensing electrode and a second sensing line spaced apart from the first sensing line; and a connection portion being disposed on a different layer from the first sensing line and a second sensing line disposed on the same layer as the first sensing line, and electrically connecting the second sensing line and the second sensing electrode. The connection line crosses the first sensing line disposed between the second sensing electrode and the second sensing line in a plan view, and is insulated from the first sensing line.

[0024] The display device may further include a connection electrode connected to an end portion of the second sensing electrode. One end of the connection line may be electrically connected to the connection electrode, and the other end of the connection line may be electrically connected to the second sensing line.

[0025] The sensing unit may include a first insulating layer disposed on the display panel, a second insulating layer covering the connection line disposed on the first insulating layer, and a third insulating layer covering the electrode portion and the line portion disposed on the second insulating layer.

[0026] Each of the first and second sensing lines may include: a first line disposed on the first insulating layer; and a second line overlapping the first line, disposed on the second insulating layer, and electrically connected to the first line through a plurality of contact holes defined through the second insulating layer.

[0027] Another exemplary embodiment of the inventive concept provides a sensing unit, the sensing unit comprising: a first insulating layer including a sensing region and a peripheral region adjacent to the sensing region; a first conductive layer disposed on the first insulating layer and including a connecting line overlapping the peripheral region and a first electrode portion overlapping the sensing region; a second insulating layer disposed on the first conductive layer; and a line portion disposed on the second insulating layer and including a second electrode portion, a first sensing line and a second sensing line, the second electrode portion including a first sensing electrode and a second sensing electrode overlapping the sensing region and spaced apart from each other, the first sensing line overlapping the peripheral region and connected to the first sensing electrode, the second sensing line spaced apart from the second sensing electrode and the first sensing line interposed between the second sensing line and the second sensing electrode. The connecting line crosses the first sensing line in a plan view, and electrically connects the second sensing electrode and the second sensing line through a contact hole defined through the second insulating layer.

[0028] The contact hole may include a first contact hole and a second contact hole, the second sensing electrode is electrically connected to one end of the connection line through the first contact hole, the second sensing line is electrically connected to the other end of the connection line through the second contact hole, and the first sensing line may overlap with a space between the first contact hole and the second contact hole.

[0029] 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

[0030] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention and together with the description serve to explain the inventive concept.

[0031] Figure 1 is an assembled perspective view showing an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view illustrating an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 4A is a plan view showing a display panel according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 4B It is shown Figure 2 An enlarged view of the region XX' shown in FIG.

[0036] Figure 4C is a cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a display panel overlapping a display area according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a sensing unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 6 is a plan view illustrating a sensing unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Fig. 7A is a diagram showing an exemplary embodiment according to the present invention Figure 6 Magnified view of area AA shown in FIG.

[0040] Figure 7B It is shown Fig. 7A Magnified view of the area XX" shown in FIG.

[0041] Fig. 8A is a diagram showing an exemplary embodiment according to the present invention Figure 6 A plan view of the sensing lines shown in FIG.

[0042] Figure 8B According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 8A A cross-sectional view taken along line II' shown in FIG.

[0043] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an exemplary embodiment according to the present invention Figure 6 An enlarged view of area BB is shown in FIG.

[0044] Fig.10 According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' shown in FIG.

[0045] Fig.11 is a diagram showing an exemplary embodiment according to the present invention Fig. 9 An exploded perspective view of the first sensing line and the first auxiliary sensing line shown in FIG.

[0046] Fig.12 Another exemplary embodiment according to the present invention is shown Figure 6 An enlarged view of area BB is shown in FIG.

[0047] Fig.13 According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Fig.12 A cross-sectional view taken along line III-III' shown in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] In the following description, for the purpose of explanation, many specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various exemplary embodiments of the invention. As used herein, an "embodiment" is a non-limiting example of a device or method that adopts one or more of the inventive concepts disclosed herein. However, it is apparent that various exemplary embodiments can be practiced without these specific details or with one or more equivalent arrangements. In other examples, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to avoid various exemplary embodiments that are unnecessarily ambiguous. 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.

[0049] Unless otherwise stated, the exemplary embodiments shown will be understood as providing exemplary features of varying details of some ways in which the inventive concept can be implemented in practice. Therefore, without departing from the inventive concept, unless otherwise stated, 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.

[0050] The use of cross hatching and / or shading in the accompanying drawings is generally provided to clarify the boundaries between adjacent elements. Thus, unless otherwise specified, the presence or absence of cross hatching or shading does not convey or indicate any preference or demand for the specific material, material properties, size, ratio, commonality between the elements shown and / or any other characteristics, attributes, properties, etc. of the element. In addition, in the accompanying drawings, the size and relative size of the elements may be exaggerated for clarity and / or descriptive purposes. When the exemplary embodiments can be implemented differently, a specific process sequence can be performed differently from the described sequence. For example, two processes described in succession can be performed substantially simultaneously or in an order opposite to the described sequence. In addition, the same reference numerals represent the same elements.

[0051] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on", "connected to" or "bound to" another element or layer, the element or layer may be directly on, directly connected to or directly bound to the other element or layer, or there may be intervening elements or layers. However, when an element or layer is referred to as being "directly on", "directly connected to" or "directly bound to" another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers. For this purpose, the term "connected" may refer to a physical connection, an electrical connection and / or a fluid connection with or without intervening elements. In addition, the DR1 axis, the DR2 axis and the DR3 axis are not limited to the three axes of a rectangular coordinate system (such as the x-axis, the y-axis and the z-axis) and may be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the DR1 axis, the DR2 axis and the DR3 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 only X, only Y, only Z, or any combination of two or more of X, Y, and Z, such as XYZ, XYY, YZ, and ZZ for example. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0052] 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. Therefore, the first element discussed below may be referred to as the second element without departing from the disclosed teachings.

[0053] Spatially relative terms such as "under," "below," "below," "down," "above," "up," "above," "higher," "side" (e.g., as in "sidewall"), and the like may be used herein for descriptive purposes to describe the relationship of one element to another (or other) element(s) 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 turned over, elements described as "under" or "beneath" other elements or features would subsequently be positioned as "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "under" may encompass both above and below orientations. Furthermore, the device may be otherwise positioned (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations), and as such, the spatially relative descriptors used herein are interpreted accordingly.

[0054] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments, and are not intended to be limiting. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular "one (kind / person)" and "the (described)" are also intended to include plural forms. In addition, when the term "comprising" and its variations, "including" and / or 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 one or more other features, integral bodies, steps, operations, elements, components and / or their groups are not excluded from existence or addition. It is also noted that, as used herein, the terms "substantially", "about" and other similar terms are used as approximate terms rather than degree terms, and 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.

[0055] Various exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional illustrations and / or exploded illustrations as schematic illustrations of idealized exemplary embodiments and / or intermediate structures. As such, variations in the shapes of the illustrations caused by, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances are expected. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein should not necessarily be interpreted as being limited to the specific illustrated shapes of the regions, but rather include deviations in shapes 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.

[0056] 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 commonly used 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 idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0057] Hereinafter, the inventive concept will be explained in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0058] Figure 1 is an assembled perspective view showing an electronic device EA according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view showing an electronic device EA according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] The electronic device EA may be a device activated in response to an electrical signal. The electronic device EA may include various embodiments. The electronic device EA may be a tablet computer, a notebook computer, a computer, or a smart TV. In this exemplary embodiment, a smart phone will be described as a representative example of the electronic device EA.

[0060] Reference Figure 1 , the electronic device EA may display an image IM through the front surface FS. The front surface FS may include a transmission area TA and a bezel area BZA defined adjacent to the transmission area TA.

[0061] The front surface FS is defined as a surface substantially parallel to that defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The normal direction of the front surface FS (i.e., the thickness direction of the electronic device EA) may indicate a third direction DR3. In the following description, the expression "when viewed in a plan view" may mean a state viewed in the third direction DR3. The front (or upper) surface and the rear (or lower) surface of each layer or each unit are distinguished from each other in the third direction DR3. However, the directions indicated by the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3 are relative to each other, and therefore, the directions indicated by the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3 may be changed to other directions (e.g., the reverse direction).

[0062] The electronic device EA may display an image IM through the transmissive area TA. The image IM may include a still image and a moving image. Figure 1 A clock widget and application icons are shown as representative examples of the image IM.

[0063] The transmission area TA may have a quadrilateral shape parallel to each of the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. However, this is merely exemplary. The transmission area TA may have various shapes, and the inventive concept should not be particularly limited.

[0064] The frame area BZA may surround the transmission area TA. However, this is merely exemplary. The frame area BZA may be disposed adjacent to only one side of the transmission area TA or may be completely omitted. The electronic device EA according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention may include various embodiments, and it should not be specifically limited.

[0065] The electronic device EA can sense a user input (or external input) TC applied thereto from the outside. The user input TC may include various forms of external input (such as a part of the user's body, light, heat, or pressure). In addition, the electronic device EA can sense an external input (e.g., a close-range input) applied when in close proximity to or adjacent to the electronic device EA, as well as a touch input.

[0066] In the present exemplary embodiment, the user input TC is shown as a touch operation using the user's hand applied to the front surface FS. However, this is only exemplary. As described above, the user input TC can be provided in various forms, and the electronic device EA can sense the user input TC applied to the side surface or rear surface of the electronic device EA according to the structure of the electronic device EA, and it should not be limited to a specific embodiment.

[0067] Reference Figure 2 , the electronic device EA may include a window 100, a display module 200, a circuit board 300, an electronic module 400, and a housing 500. The window 100 and the housing 500 are combined with each other to define the exterior of the electronic device EA.

[0068] The window 100 may be provided on the display module 200 and may cover the front surface IS of the display module 200. The window 100 may include an optically transparent insulating material. For example, the window 100 may include glass or plastic. The window 100 may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure. For example, the window 100 may have a stacked structure of a plurality of plastic films attached to each other by an adhesive or may have a glass substrate and a stacked structure of a plastic film attached to the glass substrate by an adhesive.

[0069] The window 100 may include a front surface FS exposed to the outside. The front surface FS of the electronic device EA may be defined by the front surface FS of the window 100. The transmission area TA may be an optically transparent area. The transmission area TA may have a shape corresponding to the active area AA defined in the display module 200. For example, the transmission area TA may overlap the entire surface or at least a portion of the active area AA. The image IM displayed through the active area AA of the display module 200 may be viewed from the outside through the transmission area TA.

[0070] The bezel area BZA may have a relatively lower transmittance than that of the transmission area TA. The bezel area BZA may define the shape of the transmission area TA. The bezel area BZA may be defined to be adjacent to the transmission area TA and may surround the transmission area TA.

[0071] The frame area BZA may have a predetermined color. When the window 100 includes a glass substrate or a plastic substrate, the frame area BZA may be a color layer printed or deposited on one surface of the glass substrate or the plastic substrate. Alternatively, the frame area BZA may be formed by coloring a corresponding area of ​​the glass substrate or the plastic substrate.

[0072] The bezel area BZA may cover the non-active area NAA of the display module 200 to prevent the non-active area NAA from being viewed from the outside. However, this is merely exemplary. In the window 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the bezel area BZA may be omitted.

[0073] The display module 200 may include a reference Figure 3 The display panel DP and the sensing unit ISU described. The display panel DP may include a configuration suitable for generating an image IM. The image IM generated by the display panel DP may be viewed from the outside by a user through the transmission area TA. The sensing unit ISU may sense an external input TC applied thereto. As described above, the sensing unit ISU may sense an external input TC provided to the window 100. In this exemplary embodiment, the sensing unit ISU may be described as an input sensing layer.

[0074] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the front surface IS of the display module 200 may include a first area and a second area adjacent to the first area. The first area may correspond to the module area MA and the active area AA surrounding the module area MA, and the second area may correspond to the non-active area NAA. The active area AA may be activated in response to an electrical signal. The module area MA and the second area may be defined as a non-display area in which the image IM is not displayed.

[0075] The active area AA may be a display area through which the image IM is displayed, and may be a sensing area in which the external input TC is sensed. The transmissive area TA may overlap at least the active area AA. For example, the transmissive area TA may overlap the entire surface or at least a portion of the active area AA. Therefore, the user may view the image IM through the transmissive area TA or may provide the external input TC through the transmissive area TA. However, this is merely exemplary. In the active area AA, the area through which the image IM is displayed and the area in which the external input TC is sensed may be separated from each other. However, the inventive concept should not be limited to or thereby.

[0076] The non-active area NAA may be covered by the border area BZA. The non-active area NAA may be disposed adjacent to the active area AA. The non-active area NAA may surround the active area AA. A driving circuit or a driving wiring may be disposed in the non-active area NAA to drive the active area AA.

[0077] Various signal lines, pads (also called "pads" or "solder pads") PD or electronic devices that provide electrical signals to the active area AA may be disposed in the non-active area NAA. The non-active area NAA may be covered by the border area BZA, and therefore, the non-active area NAA may not be visible from the outside.

[0078] In the present exemplary embodiment, the display module 200 may be assembled in a flat state so that the active area AA and the non-active area NAA face the window 100. However, this is merely exemplary. A portion of the non-active area NAA of the display module 200 may be curved. In this case, a portion of the non-active area NAA may be bent toward the rear surface of the electronic device EA, and thus, the area of ​​the border area BZA is reduced on the front side of the electronic device EA. Alternatively, the display module 200 may have a partially curved shape in the active area AA. In addition, the non-active area NAA may be omitted from the display module 200 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] The module area MA may have a relatively high transmittance with respect to the same area compared to the active area AA. When viewed in a plan view, the module area MA may be defined at a position overlapping an electronic module 400 described later.

[0080] At least a portion of the module area MA may be surrounded by the active area AA. In the present exemplary embodiment, the module area MA may be spaced apart from the non-active area NAA. The module area MA may be defined in the active area AA so that the entire edge of the module area MA is surrounded by the active area AA.

[0081] The display module 200 may include a panel hole MH defined through the display module 200 in the module area MA. The panel hole MH may penetrate at least one of the display panel DP and the sensing unit ISU. An edge of the module area MA may be spaced apart from an edge of the panel hole MH and may extend along the edge of the panel hole MH. The edge of the module area MA may have a shape corresponding to the panel hole MH.

[0082] The circuit board 300 may be connected to the display module 200. The circuit board 300 may include a flexible board CF and a main board MB. The flexible board CF may include an insulating film and a conductive wire mounted on the insulating film. The conductive wire may be connected to the pad PD to electrically connect the circuit board 300 to the display module 200.

[0083] In the present exemplary embodiment, the flexible board CF may be bent when assembled. Therefore, the main board MB may be disposed on the rear surface of the display module 200 and may be stably accommodated in the space provided by the housing 500. In the present exemplary embodiment, the flexible board CF may be omitted, and in this case, the main board MB may be directly connected to the display module 200.

[0084] The main board MB may include signal lines and electronic devices not shown. The electronic devices may be connected to the signal lines and may be electrically connected to the display module 200. The electronic devices may generate various electrical signals (e.g., signals used to generate an image IM or signals used to sense an external input TC), or may process sensed signals. A plurality of main boards MB may be provided to correspond to electrical signals to be generated or processed, respectively. However, the inventive concept should not be specifically limited.

[0085] In the electronic device EA according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a driving circuit that provides an electrical signal to the active area AA may be directly mounted on the display module 200. In this case, the driving circuit may be mounted in a chip form or may be coupled to the pixel PX (see FIG. Figure 4A ) are formed together. In this case, the area of ​​the circuit board 300 can be reduced, or the circuit board 300 can be completely omitted. The electronic device EA according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention may include various embodiments, and the electronic device EA should not be particularly limited.

[0086] The electronic module 400 may be disposed under the window 100. The electronic module 400 may overlap the panel hole MH defined in the module area MA. The electronic module 400 may receive an external input TC transmitted through the module area MA or may provide an output through the module area MA.

[0087] Among the components of the electronic module 400, a receiving unit that receives an external input or an output unit that provides an output may overlap with the module area MA in a plan view. All or a portion of the electronic module 400 may be accommodated in the module area MA or the panel hole MH. According to this exemplary embodiment, since the electronic module 400 is arranged to overlap with the active area AA, the size of the bezel area BZA may be reduced.

[0088] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display module 200 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] Reference Figure 3 , the display panel DP may include a base substrate BS, a circuit element layer DP-CL disposed on the base substrate BS, a display element layer DP-OLED, and an insulating layer TFL.

[0090] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the display panel DP may be a light-emitting display panel, however, it should not be specifically limited. For example, the display panel DP may be an organic light-emitting display panel or a quantum dot light-emitting display panel. The light-emitting layer of the organic light-emitting display panel may include an organic light-emitting material. The light-emitting layer of the quantum dot light-emitting display panel may include quantum dots and quantum rods. Hereinafter, the organic light-emitting display panel will be described as a representative example of the display panel DP.

[0091] The display panel DP may include a display area DP-DA and a non-display area DP-NDA. The display area DP-DA of the display panel DP may correspond to Figure 2 , and the non-display area DP-NDA of the display panel DP may correspond to Figure 2 The non-active area NAA is shown in FIG.

[0092] The base substrate BS may include at least one plastic film.The base substrate BS may be a flexible substrate and may include a plastic substrate, a glass substrate, a metal substrate, or an organic / inorganic composite substrate.

[0093] The circuit element layer DP-CL may include at least one intermediate insulating layer and a circuit element. The intermediate insulating layer may include at least one intermediate inorganic layer and at least one organic layer. The circuit element may include a signal line and a pixel driving circuit.

[0094] The display element layer DP-OLED may include a plurality of display elements. As an example, the display element layer DP-OLED may be an organic light emitting diode. The display element layer DP-OLED may also include an organic layer such as a pixel defining layer.

[0095] The insulating layer TFL may encapsulate the display element layer DP-OLED. As an example, the insulating layer TFL may be a thin film encapsulation layer. The insulating layer TFL may protect the display element layer DP-OLED from moisture, oxygen, and foreign substances such as dust particles.

[0096] The sensing unit ISU may be directly disposed on the display panel DP to sense an input applied thereto from the outside. The input from the outside may be a reference Figure 1 Described user input TC. In this specification, the expression "component "A" is directly disposed on component "B"" means that there is no intermediate element (such as an adhesive layer) between component "A" and component "B". In this exemplary embodiment, the sensing unit ISU can be formed together with the display panel DP through a continuous process.

[0097] Figure 4A is a plan view showing a display panel DP according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4B It is shown Figure 2 An enlarged view of the region XX' shown in FIG. Figure 4C is a cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of the display panel DP overlapping the display area DP-DA according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0098] Reference Figure 4A , the display panel DP may include a base substrate BS, pixels PX, signal lines GL, DL and PL, and pads PD. The base substrate BS may include an insulating substrate. For example, the base substrate BS may include a glass substrate, a plastic substrate, or a combination thereof.

[0099] The signal lines GL, DL, and PL may be connected to the pixels PX and may transmit electrical signals to the pixels PX. Among the signal lines included in the display panel DP, the scan lines GL, the data lines DL, and the power lines PL are shown as representative examples. However, these are only exemplary. The display panel DP may further include at least one of a power line, an initialization voltage line, and a light emitting control line, and the inventive concept should not be limited to the specific embodiments.

[0100] The pixels PX may be arranged in the display area DP-DA. In the present exemplary embodiment, a signal circuit diagram of one pixel PX among the pixels PX is enlarged and shown. The pixel PX may include a first transistor T1, a capacitor CP, a second transistor T2, and an organic light emitting diode OLED. The first transistor T1 may be a switching device that controls the on / off of the pixel PX. The first transistor T1 may transmit or block a data signal applied to it through a data line DL in response to a scan signal applied thereto through a scan line GL.

[0101] The capacitor CP may be connected to the first transistor T1 and the power line PL. The capacitor CP may be charged with charges corresponding to a potential difference between the data signal provided from the first transistor T1 and the first power signal applied to the power line PL.

[0102] The second transistor T2 may be connected to the first transistor T1, the capacitor CP, and the organic light emitting diode OLED. The second transistor T2 may control the driving current flowing through the organic light emitting diode OLED in response to the amount of charge charged in the capacitor CP. The on-time of the second transistor T2 may be determined by the amount of charge charged in the capacitor CP. The second transistor T2 may apply the first power signal provided by the power line PL to the organic light emitting diode OLED during its on-time.

[0103] The organic light emitting diode OLED may generate light in response to an electrical signal or may control the amount of light. For example, the organic light emitting diode OLED may include an organic light emitting device, a quantum dot light emitting device, an electrophoretic device, or an electrowetting device.

[0104] The organic light emitting diode OLED may receive a first power supply voltage ELVDD provided from the power line PL, and may receive a second power supply voltage ELVSS from a power electrode (not shown). The first power supply voltage ELVDD may be applied to a first electrode of the organic light emitting diode OLED through a second transistor T2, and the second power supply voltage ELVSS may be applied to a second electrode of the organic light emitting diode OLED through a power electrode (not shown). The second power supply voltage ELVSS may be lower than the first power supply voltage ELVDD.

[0105] A driving current corresponding to the difference between the first power supply voltage ELVDD and the second power supply voltage ELVSS provided from the second transistor T2 may flow through the organic light emitting diode OLED, and the organic light emitting diode OLED may generate light corresponding to the driving current. However, this is merely exemplary, and each of the pixels PX may include electronic devices having various configurations and arrangements, and the inventive concept should not be particularly limited.

[0106] In a plan view, the pixels PX may be arranged around the panel hole MH, and may surround the panel hole MH.

[0107] The pad PD may include a first pad P1 and a second pad P2. The first pad P1 may be provided in plural and may be connected to the data lines DL, respectively. The second pad P2 may be connected to the power pattern VDD to be electrically connected to the power line PL. The display panel DP may apply an electrical signal provided thereto from the outside to the pixel PX through the pad PD. In addition to the first pad P1 and the second pad P2, the pad PD may further include a pad for receiving other electrical signals. However, the pad PD should not be limited thereto or thereby.

[0108] exist Figure 4B middle, Figure 2 The module area MA shown in FIG. 1 is indicated by a dotted line. The area XX′ includes an area in which a panel hole MH is defined. Figure 4B The display panel DP in the region in which the panel hole MH is defined is described in detail.

[0109] As described above, the panel hole MH may be defined in the display area DP-DA. Therefore, at least some of the pixels PX may be arranged adjacent to the panel hole MH. Some of the pixels PX may surround the panel hole MH.

[0110] The groove pattern GV may be defined in the module area MA. The groove pattern GV may be arranged along the edge of the panel hole MH in a plan view, and in the present exemplary embodiment, the groove pattern GV may have a ring shape surrounding the panel hole MH. However, this is only exemplary. The groove pattern GV may have a shape different from the shape of the panel hole MH (e.g., a polygonal shape, an oval shape, a closed line shape provided with at least a curve, or a shape including a plurality of patterns that are partially cut), and the inventive concept should not be limited to a specific embodiment.

[0111] The groove pattern GV may correspond to a portion recessed from the front surface IS of the display panel DP, and may block a path through which moisture and oxygen penetrating the panel hole MH flow into the pixel PX.

[0112] A plurality of signal lines SL1 and SL2 connected to the pixels PX may be disposed in the module area MA. The signal lines SL1 and SL2 may be connected to the pixels PX through the module area MA. For ease of explanation, Figure 4B A first signal line SL1 and a second signal line SL2 among signal lines connected to the pixel PX are shown as a representative example.

[0113] The first signal line SL1 may extend in the first direction DR1. The first signal line SL1 may be connected to pixels arranged in the same row along the first direction DR1 among the pixels PX. The first signal line SL1 will be described as corresponding to the scan line GL.

[0114] Some of the pixels PX connected to the first signal line SL1 may be arranged at the left side relative to the panel hole MH, and the other pixels may be arranged at the right side relative to the panel hole MH. Therefore, even if some pixels are omitted relative to the panel hole MH, the pixels PX arranged in the same row and connected to the first signal line SL1 may be turned on / off by the same gate signal.

[0115] The second signal line SL2 may extend in the second direction DR2. The second signal line SL2 may be connected to pixels arranged in the same column along the second direction DR2 among the pixels PX. The second signal line SL2 will be described as corresponding to the data line DL.

[0116] Some of the pixels PX connected to the second signal line SL2 may be arranged at the upper side relative to the panel hole MH, and other pixels may be provided at the lower side relative to the panel hole MH. Therefore, even if some pixels are omitted relative to the panel hole MH, the pixels PX arranged in the same column and connected to the second signal line SL2 may receive data signals through the same data line.

[0117] Reference Figure 4C , the display panel DP may include a plurality of insulating layers, semiconductor patterns, conductive patterns, and signal lines. The insulating layers, semiconductor layers, and conductive layers may be formed by a coating process or a deposition process. Then, the insulating layers, semiconductor layers, and conductive layers may be selectively patterned by a photolithography process. The semiconductor patterns, conductive patterns, and signal lines included in the circuit element layer DP-CL and the display element layer DP-OLED may be formed. When Figure 4B When the first transistor T1 and the second transistor T2 of the pixel PX shown in FIG. Figure 4C The display panel DP shown in FIG. 1 will be described as including additional elements.

[0118] The base substrate BS may include a synthetic resin film. The synthetic resin film may include a thermosetting resin. The base substrate BS may have a multilayer structure. For example, the base substrate BS may have a three-layer structure of a synthetic resin layer, an adhesive layer and a synthetic resin layer. Specifically, the synthetic resin layer may be a polyimide resin layer, and the material used for the synthetic resin layer should not be specifically limited. The synthetic resin layer may include at least one of acrylic resin, methacrylic resin, polyisoprene, vinyl resin, epoxy resin, polyurethane resin, cellulose resin, siloxane resin, polyamide resin and perylene resin. The base substrate BS may include a glass substrate, a metal substrate or an organic / inorganic composite substrate.

[0119] At least one inorganic layer may be formed on the upper surface of the base substrate BS. The inorganic layer may include at least one of aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, silicon oxide, silicon oxynitride, zirconium oxide, and hafnium oxide. The inorganic layer may be formed into a plurality of layers. The inorganic layer may form a barrier layer and / or a buffer layer. In the present exemplary embodiment, the display panel DP may include a buffer layer BFL.

[0120] The buffer layer BFL may increase the bonding force between the base substrate BS and the semiconductor pattern. The buffer layer BFL may include a silicon oxide layer and a silicon nitride layer, and the silicon oxide layer and the silicon nitride layer may be alternately stacked with each other.

[0121] The semiconductor pattern may be disposed on the buffer layer BFL. The semiconductor pattern may include polycrystalline silicon. However, the inventive concept should not be limited thereto or thereby. The semiconductor pattern may include amorphous silicon or metal oxide.

[0122] Figure 4C Only a portion of the semiconductor pattern is shown, and the semiconductor pattern may be further arranged in other areas of the pixel PX in the plan view. The semiconductor pattern may be arranged throughout the pixel PX in a specific rule. The semiconductor pattern may have different electrical properties depending on whether it is doped. The semiconductor pattern may include a doped region and a non-doped region. The doped region may be doped with an N-type dopant or a P-type dopant. The P-type transistor may include a doped region doped with a P-type dopant.

[0123] The doped region may have a conductivity greater than that of the non-doped region and may be substantially used as an electrode or a signal line. The non-doped region may substantially correspond to an active region (or a channel). In other words, a portion of the semiconductor pattern may be an active region of a transistor, another portion of the semiconductor pattern may be a source or drain of the transistor, and yet another portion of the semiconductor pattern may be a connecting electrode or a connecting signal line.

[0124] like Figure 4C As shown in , the source S1, active area A1 and drain D1 of the first transistor T1 may be formed of a semiconductor pattern, and the source S2, active area A2 and drain D2 of the second transistor T2 may be formed of a semiconductor pattern. The source S1 and the drain D1 may extend from the active area A1 in directions opposite to each other, and the source S2 and the drain D2 may extend from the active area A2 in directions opposite to each other. Figure 4C A portion of a connection signal line SCL formed by a semiconductor pattern is shown. Although not shown in the drawings, the connection signal line SCL may be connected to the drain D2 of the second transistor T2 in a plan view. In an exemplary embodiment, the source and source region of the transistor are integrated, and therefore, the source may also be referred to as the source region. Similarly, the drain and drain region of the transistor are also integrated, and therefore, the drain may also be referred to as the drain region.

[0125] The first insulating layer 10 may be disposed on the buffer layer BFL. The first insulating layer 10 may be stacked with the pixel PX and may cover the semiconductor pattern. The first insulating layer 10 may be an inorganic layer and / or an organic layer and may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure. The first insulating layer 10 may include at least one of aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, silicon oxide, silicon oxynitride, zirconium oxide, and hafnium oxide. In the present exemplary embodiment, the first insulating layer 10 may have a single-layer structure of a silicon oxide layer. Not only the first insulating layer 10, but also the insulating layer of the circuit element layer DP-CL described later may be an inorganic layer and / or an organic layer and may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure. The inorganic layer may include at least one of the materials mentioned above.

[0126] The gates G1 and G2 may be disposed on the first insulating layer 10. The gates G1 and G2 may be parts of a metal pattern. The gates G1 and G2 may overlap the active areas A1 and A2, respectively. The gates G1 and G2 may be used as masks in a process of doping a semiconductor pattern.

[0127] The second insulating layer 20 may be disposed on the first insulating layer 10 and may cover the gates G1 and G2. The second insulating layer 20 may be stacked together with the pixel PX. The second insulating layer 20 may be an inorganic layer and / or an organic layer and may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure. In the present exemplary embodiment, the second insulating layer 20 may have a single-layer structure of silicon oxide.

[0128] The upper electrode UE may be disposed on the second insulating layer 20. The upper electrode UE may overlap the gate G2 of the second transistor T2. The upper electrode UE may be a portion of the metal pattern. A portion of the gate G2 and the upper electrode UE overlapping a portion of the gate G2 may define a capacitor CP (refer to Figure 4A ).

[0129] The third insulating layer 30 may be disposed on the second insulating layer 20 and may cover the upper electrode UE. In the present exemplary embodiment, the third insulating layer 30 may have a single-layer structure of a silicon oxide layer. The first connection electrode CNE1 may be disposed on the third insulating layer 30. The first connection electrode CNE1 may be connected to the connection signal line SCL through a contact hole CNT-1 defined through the first insulating layer 10, the second insulating layer 20, and the third insulating layer 30.

[0130] The fourth insulating layer 40 may be disposed on the third insulating layer 30 to cover the first connection electrode CNE1. The fourth insulating layer 40 may have a single-layer structure of a silicon oxide layer. The fifth insulating layer 50 may be disposed on the fourth insulating layer 40. The fifth insulating layer 50 may be an organic layer. The second connection electrode CNE2 may be disposed on the fifth insulating layer 50. The second connection electrode CNE2 may be connected to the first connection electrode CNE1 through a contact hole CNT-2 defined through the fourth insulating layer 40 and the fifth insulating layer 50.

[0131] The sixth insulating layer 60 may be disposed on the fifth insulating layer 50 and may cover the second connection electrode CNE2. The sixth insulating layer 60 may be an organic layer. The first electrode AE ​​may be disposed on the sixth insulating layer 60. The first electrode AE ​​may be connected to the second connection electrode CNE2 through a contact hole CNT-3 defined through the sixth insulating layer 60. The opening OP may be defined by the pixel defining layer PDL. At least a portion of the first electrode AE ​​may be exposed through the opening OP of the pixel defining layer PDL.

[0132] like Figure 4C As shown in , the display area DP-DA may include a pixel area PXA and a light blocking area NPXA defined adjacent to the pixel area PXA. The light blocking area NPXA may surround the pixel area PXA. In the present exemplary embodiment, the pixel area PXA may be defined to correspond to a portion of the first electrode AE ​​exposed by the opening OP.

[0133] The hole control layer HCL may be disposed in common in the pixel region PXA and the light blocking region NPXA. The hole control layer HCL may include a hole transport layer and may further include a hole injection layer. The light emitting layer EML may be disposed on the hole control layer HCL. The light emitting layer EML may be disposed in a region corresponding to the opening OP. That is, the light emitting layer EML may be formed in each of the pixels PX after being divided into a plurality of parts.

[0134] The electron control layer ECL may be disposed on the light emitting layer EML. The electron control layer ECL may include an electron transport layer and may further include an electron injection layer. The hole control layer HCL and the electron control layer ECL may be formed together in a plurality of pixels PX using an open mask. The second electrode CE may be disposed on the electron control layer ECL. The second electrode CE may have an integral shape and may be disposed together in the pixel PX.

[0135] The insulating layer TFL may be disposed on the second electrode CE. According to the present disclosure, the insulating layer TFL may include a plurality of thin layers. For example, although not shown in the drawings, the insulating layer TFL may have a structure in which an inorganic layer and an organic layer are stacked.

[0136] Figure 5is a cross-sectional view illustrating a sensing unit ISU according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0137] Reference Figure 5 , the sensing unit ISU may include a first sensing insulating layer IS-IL1, a first conductive layer IS-CL1, a second sensing insulating layer IS-IL2, a second conductive layer IS-CL2, and a third sensing insulating layer IS-IL3. The first sensing insulating layer IS-IL1 may be directly disposed on the insulating layer TFL. However, the inventive concept should not be limited thereto or thereby. The first sensing insulating layer IS-IL1 may be omitted, and in this case, the first conductive layer IS-CL1 may be directly disposed on the insulating layer TFL.

[0138] Each of the first conductive layer IS-CL1 and the second conductive layer IS-CL2 may have a single layer structure or a multilayer structure of layers stacked in the third direction DR3. The conductive layer having the multilayer structure may include at least two layers among a transparent conductive layer and a metal layer. The conductive layer having the multilayer structure may include a metal layer including metals different from each other.

[0139] The transparent conductive layer may include indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), indium tin zinc oxide (ITZO), PEDOT, metal nanowires, or graphene. The metal layer may include molybdenum, silver, titanium, copper, aluminum, or an alloy thereof. For example, each of the first conductive layer IS-CL1 and the second conductive layer IS-CL2 may have a three-layer structure of titanium / aluminum / titanium. A metal layer with relatively high durability and relatively low reflectivity may be applied as an outer layer, and a metal layer with high conductivity may be applied as an inner layer.

[0140] According to the present exemplary embodiment, each of the first conductive layer IS-CL1 and the second conductive layer IS-CL2 may include a conductive pattern. For example, the first conductive layer IS-CL1 may include a first conductive pattern including a first electrode portion and a first line portion, and the second conductive layer IS-CL2 may include a second conductive pattern including a second electrode portion and a second line portion.

[0141] Each of the first sensing insulating layer IS-IL1, the second sensing insulating layer IS-IL2, and the third sensing insulating layer IS-IL3 may include an inorganic layer or an organic layer. In the present exemplary embodiment, the first sensing insulating layer IS-IL1 may be an inorganic layer. However, the inventive concept should not be limited thereto or thereby. For example, the first sensing insulating layer IS-IL1 and the second sensing insulating layer IS-IL2 may be inorganic layers, and the third sensing insulating layer IS-IL3 may be an organic layer.

[0142] Figure 6is a plan view showing a sensing unit ISU according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 7A is a diagram showing an exemplary embodiment according to the present invention Figure 6 Magnified view of area AA shown in FIG. Figure 7B It is shown Fig. 7A Magnified view of the area XX" shown in FIG.

[0143] Reference Figure 6 , the sensing unit ISU may include a sensing area AR and a peripheral area NAR defined therein. The sensing area AR and the peripheral area NAR of the sensing unit ISU may correspond to Figure 2 The active area AA and the non-active area NAA of the display module 200 shown in FIG. The sensing area AR may be activated in response to an electrical signal. For example, the sensing area AR may be an area in which an input is sensed. The peripheral area NAR may surround the sensing area AR.

[0144] Despite Figure 6 Not shown, but related to Figure 2 The hole area corresponding to the panel hole MH shown in FIG. 4 may be defined in the sensing area AR of the sensing unit ISU. The hole area may be defined by removing all or at least a portion of the components forming the sensing unit ISU.

[0145] For details, refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 , the sensing unit ISU may include a first sensing electrode E1, a second sensing electrode E2, a dummy pattern DMP, sensing lines SL-T, SL-R1, and SL-R2, and pad portions PD1, PD2a, and PD2b. The first sensing electrode E1, the second sensing electrode E2, and the dummy pattern DMP may be disposed in the sensing region AR, and the sensing lines SL-T, SL-R1, and SL-R2 may be disposed in the peripheral region NAR.

[0146] The sensing unit ISU may obtain information about the external input TC based on a change in capacitance between the first sensing electrode E1 and the second sensing electrode E2. The first sensing electrodes E1 may be arranged in the first direction DR1 and may extend in the second direction DR2. Each of the first sensing electrodes E1 may include a first sensing pattern SP1 and a first connection pattern BP1. The first connection pattern BP1 may electrically connect two first sensing patterns SP1 adjacent to each other.

[0147] The second sensing electrodes E2 may extend along the first direction DR1 and may be arranged in the second direction DR2. Each of the second sensing electrodes E2 may include a second sensing pattern SP2 and a second connection pattern BP2. The second connection pattern BP2 may electrically connect two second sensing patterns SP2 adjacent to each other. Two adjacent second sensing patterns SP2 may be connected to each other through two second connection patterns BP2. However, the inventive concept should not be limited thereto or thereby.

[0148] According to the present exemplary embodiment, the first sensing pattern SP1, the first connection pattern BP1 and the second sensing pattern SP2 may be included in the second conductive layer IS-CL2. The first sensing pattern SP1, the second sensing pattern SP2 and the first connection pattern BP1 may be formed on the second sensing insulating layer IS-IL2 by the same process and may be defined as a second electrode portion of the second conductive layer IS-CL2.

[0149] The second connection pattern BP2 may be included in the first conductive layer IS-CL1. The second connection pattern BP2 may be disposed on the first sensing insulating layer IS-IL1 and may be defined as a first electrode portion of the first conductive layer IS-CL1.

[0150] Each of the first sensing patterns SP1 may include a first portion SP1 a , a second portion SP1 b , and a third portion SP1 c .

[0151] The first portion SP1a may extend in the second direction DR2. One end of the first portion SP1a may be connected to one first connection pattern BP1, and the other end of the first portion SP1a may be connected to another first connection pattern BP1. The first portion SP1a may be referred to as a trunk portion. Since the first connection pattern BP1 and the first sensing pattern SP1 have a single connected structure, the first connection pattern BP1 may be defined as part of the first portion SP1a.

[0152] The second portion SP1b may protrude from the first portion SP1a toward the first direction DR1. For example, the second portion SP1b may protrude in a direction away from a central area of ​​the first portion SP1a. The second portion SP1b may be referred to as a protruding portion.

[0153] A plurality of third portions SP1c may be provided. The third portion SP1c may extend from the first portion SP1a in the fourth direction DR4 or the fifth direction DR5. Some portions of the third portion SP1c may extend in the fourth direction DR4, and other portions of the third portion SP1c may extend in the fifth direction DR5. Each of the third portions SP1c may be referred to as a "branch portion".

[0154] The fourth direction DR4 may be a direction crossing the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. For example, the fourth direction DR4 may be a direction between the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The fifth direction DR5 may be a direction crossing the fourth direction DR4. For example, the fourth direction DR4 and the fifth direction DR5 may be substantially perpendicular to each other.

[0155] Each of the second sensing patterns SP2 may have a shape corresponding to that of the first sensing patterns SP1 adjacent thereto. Each of the second sensing patterns SP2 may surround at least two third portions SP1c of each of the first sensing patterns SP1 adjacent thereto.

[0156] The sensing lines SL-T, SL-R1, and SL-R2 may overlap the peripheral region NAR and may be disposed on the second sensing insulating layer IS-IL2. The sensing lines SL-T, SL-R1, and SL-R2 may be formed on the second sensing insulating layer IS-IL2 by the same process as that of the first sensing electrode E1 and the second sensing electrode E2.

[0157] The sensing lines SL-T, SL-R1, and SL-R2 may include first sensing lines SL-T and second sensing lines SL-R1 and SL-R2. The pad portions PD1, PD2a, and PD2b may overlap the peripheral region NAR and may include a first sensing pad PD1, a first sub-sensing pad PD2a, and a second sub-sensing pad PD2b. The first sensing pad PD1 may be disposed between the first sub-sensing pad PD2a and the second sub-sensing pad PD2b.

[0158] One ends of the first sensing lines SL-T may be electrically connected to the first sensing electrodes E1 , respectively, and the other ends of the first sensing lines SL-T may be electrically connected to the first sensing pads PD1 , respectively.

[0159] The second sensing lines SL-R1 and SL-R2 may include a first sub-sensing line SL-R1 disposed at a left side relative to the second sensing electrode E2 and a second sub-sensing line SL-R2 disposed at a right side relative to the second sensing electrode E2. The first sensing line SL-T may be disposed between the first sub-sensing line SL-R1 and the second sub-sensing line SL-R2.

[0160] One ends of the first sub sensing lines SL- R1 may be electrically connected to some of the second sensing electrodes E2 , respectively, and the other ends of the first sub sensing lines SL- R1 may be electrically connected to the first sub sensing pads PD2 a , respectively.

[0161] One ends of the second sub sensing lines SL-R2 may be electrically connected to the other second sensing electrodes among the second sensing electrodes E2, respectively, and the other ends of the second sub sensing lines SL-R2 may be electrically connected to the second sub sensing pads PD2b, respectively.

[0162] However, the connection structure of the sensing lines SL-T, SL-R1, and SL-R2 should not be limited to Figure 6 The exemplary embodiments shown in FIG. 1 and may be changed to have various shapes.

[0163] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, each of the sensing lines SL-T, SL-R1, and SL-R2 may have a double-layer structure. Each of the sensing lines SL-T, SL-R1, and SL-R2 may be electrically contacted with an auxiliary sensing line (not shown) disposed on the first sensing insulating layer IS-IL1 through at least one contact hole defined through the second sensing insulating layer IS-IL2. The sensing lines SL-T, SL-R1, and SL-R2 may correspond to a second line portion of the second conductive layer IS-CL2.

[0164] A plurality of auxiliary sensing lines may be disposed to correspond to the sensing lines SL-T, SL-R1, and SL-R2, respectively, and may be disposed on the first sensing insulating layer IS-IL1. The auxiliary sensing lines may correspond to the first line portion of the first conductive layer IS-CL1.

[0165] As described above, since the sensing lines SL-T, SL-R1, and SL-R2 are respectively electrically in contact with the auxiliary sensing lines disposed on different layers from each other, the reliability of the electrical signals transmitted to the sensing electrodes E1 and E2 can be improved. For example, although some of the sensing lines SL-T, SL-R1, and SL-R2 are disconnected, the electrical signals can be transmitted to the sensing electrodes E1 and E2 through the auxiliary sensing lines electrically in contact with the sensing lines SL-T, SL-R1, and SL-R2. Fig. 8A and Figure 8B Describe the details about the above.

[0166] The dummy pattern DMP may be spaced apart from the first sensing pattern SP1 and the second sensing pattern SP2. The dummy pattern DMP may be formed on the second sensing insulating layer IS-IL2 by the same process as that of the first sensing pattern SP1 and the second sensing pattern SP2. Therefore, the dummy pattern DMP may include the same material as that of the first sensing pattern SP1, the second sensing pattern SP2, and the sensing lines SL-T, SL-R1, and SL-R2 and may have the same stacking structure as that of the first sensing pattern SP1, the second sensing pattern SP2, and the sensing lines SL-T, SL-R1, and SL-R2. The dummy pattern DMP may be referred to as an "auxiliary pattern", "additional pattern", "sub-pattern", or "boundary pattern".

[0167] The dummy pattern DMP may include a first pattern DMPa and a second pattern DMPb. The first pattern DMPa may be disposed between the first sensing pattern SP1 and the second sensing pattern SP2. The second pattern DMPb may be disposed between the second sensing patterns SP2. For example, the second pattern DMPb may be disposed between two second sensing patterns SP2 adjacent to each other along the second direction DR2, and thus, the two second sensing patterns SP2 may be spaced apart from each other.

[0168] The second pattern DMPb may include a first boundary pattern MP1 and a second boundary pattern MP2. The first boundary pattern MP1 may have a rhombus shape in a plan view. The second boundary patterns MP2 may be spaced apart from each other and the first boundary pattern MP1 may be interposed between the second boundary patterns MP2. Each of the second boundary patterns MP2 may extend along the first direction DR1. Each of the second boundary patterns MP2 may be connected to the first boundary pattern MP1 and the first pattern DMPa.

[0169] When the first pattern DMPa is disposed between the first sensing pattern SP1 and the second sensing pattern SP2 and the second pattern DMPb is disposed between the second sensing patterns SP2, visibility of boundary regions between the first sensing patterns SP1 and the second sensing patterns SP2 and boundary regions between the second sensing patterns SP2 may be reduced.

[0170] Some of the dummy patterns DMP may be floating electrodes that are not electrically connected to the first sensing pattern SP1 and the second sensing pattern SP2. Alternatively, some of the dummy patterns DMP may be grounded. Other dummy patterns of the dummy patterns DMP may be connected to the first sensing pattern SP1 or the second sensing pattern SP2 to improve the sensitivity of the sensing unit ISU.

[0171] Reference Fig. 7A and Figure 7B , each of the first sensing pattern SP1, the first connection pattern BP1, the second sensing pattern SP2, the second connection pattern BP2, and the dummy pattern DMP may have a mesh structure. A boundary BD between the first sensing pattern SP1, the second sensing pattern SP2, and the dummy pattern DMP may be defined by removing a portion of the mesh structure. Fig. 7A , the boundary BD is indicated by a solid line to clearly show the boundary BD. Figure 7B The removed portion of the mesh structure shown in may correspond to the boundary BD. In addition, a disconnection portion CTP defined by removing a portion of the mesh structure may be further provided to prevent the boundary from being viewed.

[0172] Fig. 8A is a diagram showing an exemplary embodiment according to the present invention Figure 62 is a plan view of the sensing lines SL-T, SL-R1 and SL-R2 shown in FIG. Figure 8B According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 8A A cross-sectional view taken along line II' shown in FIG.

[0173] As reference Figure 6 As described, each of the sensing lines SL-T, SL-R1, and SL-R2 may have a double-layer structure. That is, the sensing lines SL-T, SL-R1, and SL-R2 may be electrically contacted with auxiliary sensing lines disposed on different layers from each other, respectively. According to the present exemplary embodiment, each of the sensing lines SL-T, SL-R1, and SL-R2 may have substantially the same double-layer structure.

[0174] Reference Fig. 8A and Figure 8B , in a plan view, each of the first sensing lines SL-T may be electrically contacted with the first auxiliary sensing line SL-Td through a plurality of first contact holes CH1 spaced apart from each other.

[0175] A plurality of first auxiliary sensing lines SL-Td may be provided to correspond to the number of the first sensing lines SL-T and may be provided on the first sensing insulating layer IS-IL1. The first sensing lines SL-T may overlap with the first auxiliary sensing lines SL-Td and may be provided on the second sensing insulating layer IS-IL2. The first sensing lines SL-T may be electrically contacted with the first auxiliary sensing lines SL-Td through first contact holes CH1 defined through the second sensing insulating layer IS-IL2, respectively.

[0176] In a plan view, each of the first sub-sensing lines SL-R1 may be electrically contacted with the second auxiliary sensing line SL-R1d through a plurality of second contact holes CH2 spaced apart from each other. Similarly, the first sub-sensing lines SL-R1 may be electrically contacted with the second auxiliary sensing lines SL-R1d through the second contact holes CH2 defined through the second sensing insulating layer IS-IL2, respectively.

[0177] In a plan view, each of the second sub-sensing lines SL-R2 may be electrically contacted with the third auxiliary sensing line SL-R2d through a plurality of third contact holes CH3 spaced apart from each other. Similarly, the second sub-sensing lines SL-R2 may be electrically contacted with the third auxiliary sensing lines SL-R2d through the third contact holes CH3 defined through the second sensing insulating layer IS-IL2, respectively.

[0178] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an exemplary embodiment according to the present invention Figure 6 An enlarged view of area BB is shown in FIG. Fig.10 According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 9A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' shown in FIG.

[0179] Reference Figure 6 and Fig. 9 , the sensing unit ISU may further include first connection electrodes CNE-T respectively connected to ends of the first sensing pattern SP1 and second connection electrodes CNE-R respectively connected to ends of the second sensing pattern SP2. The first connection electrodes CNE-T may be spaced apart from each other and may be formed on the second sensing insulating layer IS-IL2 by the same process as that of the first sensing pattern SP1. The second connection electrodes CNE-R may be spaced apart from each other and may be formed on the second sensing insulating layer IS-IL2 by the same process as that of the second sensing pattern SP2. According to the present exemplary embodiment, the first connection electrode CNE-T and the second connection electrode CNE-R may be formed on the second sensing insulating layer IS-IL2 by the same process.

[0180] Each of the first and second connection electrodes CNE-T and CNE-R may be connected to an end of a corresponding one of the sensing patterns SP1 and SP2 having a mesh structure at at least two points. In this case, the ends of the sensing patterns SP1 and SP2 may mean portions adjacent to the peripheral area NAR.

[0181] According to the present invention, each of the first connection electrode CNE-T and the second connection electrode CNE-R may have a double-layer structure. For example, the first connection electrode CNE-T may be electrically contacted with the first auxiliary connection electrode (not shown) through the contact hole defined through the second sensing insulating layer IS-IL2. The second connection electrode CNE-R may be electrically contacted with the second auxiliary connection electrode CNE-Rd through the contact hole CH1a defined through the second sensing insulating layer IS-IL2. The first auxiliary connection electrode and the second auxiliary connection electrode CNE-Rd may be formed on the first sensing insulating layer IS-IL1.

[0182] In detail, Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , the first sensing line SL-T may be disposed between the first sub-sensing line SL-R1 and the second sub-sensing line SL-R2 and may be electrically connected to one end of the first sensing electrode E1. One end of the first sensing electrode E1 may be connected to the pad portions PD1, PD2a, and PD2b (refer to FIG. 1 ). Figure 6 ) adjacent areas.

[0183] like Fig. 9As shown in , the first sensing line SL-T may include a first sensing line SL-Ta, and the second sub-sensing line SL-R2 may include a second sub-sensing line SL-R2a. The first sensing line SL-Ta may be a first sensing line closest to the second sub-sensing line SL-R2 among the plurality of first sensing lines SL-T, and the second sub-sensing line SL-R2a may be a second sub-sensing line closest to the first sensing line SL-T among the plurality of second sub-sensing lines SL-R2.

[0184] The first sensing line SL-Ta may be electrically connected to a corresponding first connection electrode CNE-T among the first connection electrodes CNE-T. The first connection electrode CNE-T may be connected to one end of one first sensing electrode E1 among the first sensing electrodes E1. The first connection electrode CNE-T may be directly connected to the first sensing pattern SP1 of the first sensing electrode E1. The first sensing line SL-Ta may be disposed on the same layer as the first connection electrode CNE-T.

[0185] The second sub-sensing line SL-R2a may be electrically connected to one second connection electrode CNE-R among the second connection electrodes CNE-R. The second connection electrode CNE-R may be connected to one end of one second sensing electrode E2 adjacent to the one end of the first sensing electrode E1 among the second sensing electrodes E2. The second connection electrode CNE-R may be directly connected to the second sensing pattern SP2 of the second sensing electrode E2. The second sub-sensing line SL-R2a may be disposed on the same layer as the second connection electrode CNE-R and may be formed by the same process as that of the first sensing line SL-Ta and the first connection electrode CNE-T.

[0186] In a plan view, the first sensing line SL-Ta according to the present invention may be disposed between the second connection electrode CNE-R and the second sub-sensing line SL-R2a. Specifically, one end of the second sub-sensing line SL-R2a may be spaced apart from the second connection electrode CNE-R and the first sensing line SL-Ta may be interposed between the one end of the second sub-sensing line SL-R2a and the second connection electrode CNE-R. As a result, the second sub-sensing line SL-R2a may be electrically separated from the second connection electrode CNE-R by the first sensing line SL-Ta.

[0187] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the sensing unit ISU may include a connection portion BRE disposed on a layer different from the first sensing line SL-Ta and the second sub-sensing line SL-R2a. The connection portion BRE may be formed on the first sensing insulating layer IS-IL1 and may correspond to the first line portion of the first conductive layer IS-CL1. The connection portion BRE may electrically connect the second sub-sensing line SL-R2a to the second connection electrode CNE-R through a contact hole defined through the second sensing insulating layer IS-IL2. As a result, an electrical signal transmitted through the second sub-sensing line SL-R2a may be applied to the second sensing pattern SP2 through the connection portion BRE and the second connection electrode CNE-R.

[0188] Specifically, according to the present invention, the second sub sensing line SL-R2a may include first and second line regions LR1 and LR2 having different line widths from each other. The connection portion BRE may be connected to the third auxiliary sensing line SL-R2d overlapping the second line region LR2 having a greater line width than the first line region LR1.

[0189] The connection portion BRE may include a first connection wire BREa and a second connection wire BREb. Each of the first connection wire BREa and the second connection wire BREb may be disposed on the first sensing insulating layer IS-IL1 corresponding to the first conductive layer IS-CL1.

[0190] According to the present invention, in a plan view, the first connection line BREa may cross the first sensing line SL-Ta disposed on another layer. In addition, the first connection line BREa may not cross the first sensing line SL-Ta disposed on another layer. Fig.11 The first auxiliary sensing line SL-Tda described as being in electrical contact with the first sensing line SL-Ta overlaps. The first auxiliary sensing line SL-Tda may be a first auxiliary sensing line in electrical contact with the first sensing line SL-Ta among the plurality of first auxiliary sensing lines SL-Td.

[0191] That is, the first connection line BREa may be spaced apart from the first auxiliary sensing line SL-Tda, and may include one end electrically connected to the second connection electrode CNE-R and the other end electrically connected to the second sub sensing line SL-R2a.

[0192] For details, refer to Fig.10, the second sensing insulating layer IS-IL2 may define a first contact hole CH1a and a second contact hole CH2a. The second connection electrode CNE-R may be electrically connected to the second auxiliary connection electrode CNE-Rd through the first contact hole CH1a. The second sub-sensing line SL-R2a may be electrically connected to the third auxiliary sensing line SL-R2ad through the second contact hole CH2a. The third auxiliary sensing line SL-R2ad may be a third auxiliary sensing line among the plurality of third auxiliary sensing lines SL-R2d that is electrically in contact with the second sub-sensing line SL-R2a.

[0193] One end of the first connection wire BREa may be connected to the second auxiliary connection electrode CNE-Rd, and the other end of the first connection wire BREa may be connected to the third auxiliary sensing line SL-R2ad. According to the present invention, the first connection wire BREa, the second auxiliary connection electrode CNE-Rd, and the third auxiliary sensing line SL-R2ad may be formed in an integral shape on the first sensing insulating layer IS-IL1 by the same process.

[0194] The electric signal transmitted through the second sub sensing line SL-R2a may be applied to the second connection electrode CNE-R through the third auxiliary sensing line SL-R2ad, the first connection line BREa and the second auxiliary connection electrode CNE-Rd. As a result, the electric signal may be transmitted to the second sensing pattern SP2 connected to the second connection electrode CNE-R.

[0195] The first sensing line SL-Ta may overlap at least a portion of the first connection line BREa and may be disposed on the second sensing insulating layer IS-IL2. When viewed in a plan view, the first connection line BREa may cross the first sensing line SL-Ta.

[0196] Specifically, the first sensing line SL-Ta may overlap the first connection line BREa and may include a first portion Ta1, a second portion Ta2, and a third portion Ta3 that are spaced apart from each other in a plan view. The first portion Ta1, the second portion Ta2, and the third portion Ta3 may be disposed between the second connection electrode CNE-R and the second sub-sensing line SL-R2a. In other words, the first sensing line SL-T may be disposed between the second sensing pattern SP2 and the second sensing lines SL-R1 and SL-R2.

[0197] Refer again Fig. 9 , the second connection line BREb may be spaced apart from the first connection line BREa and may cross the first sensing line SL-Ta. In addition, the second connection line BREb may not be spaced apart from the first sensing line SL-Ta. Fig.11The first auxiliary sensing line SL-Tda described as being in electrical contact with the first sensing line SL-Ta overlaps. When viewed in a plan view, the second connection line BREb may be spaced apart from the first auxiliary sensing line SL-Tda and may include one end electrically connected to the second connection electrode CNE-R and the other end electrically connected to the second sub-sensing line SL-R2a.

[0198] In addition, although not shown, the second connection line BREb may have Fig.10 For example, one end of the second connection line BREb may be connected to the second auxiliary connection electrode CNE-Rd, and the other end of the second connection line BREb may be connected to the third auxiliary sensing line SL-R2ad.

[0199] The electric signal transmitted through the second sub sensing line SL-R2a may be applied to the second connection electrode CNE-R through the third auxiliary sensing line SL-R2ad, the second connection line BREb and the second auxiliary connection electrode CNE-Rd. As a result, the electric signal may be transmitted to the second sensing pattern SP2 connected to the second connection electrode CNE-R.

[0200] As described above, the second sub sensing line SL-R2a according to the present invention may be separated from the second connection electrode CNE-R by the first sensing line SL-Ta. However, the second sub sensing line SL-R2a and the second connection electrode CNE-R may be electrically connected to each other through the connection portion BRE. Fig. 9 The connection portion BRE including two connection lines BREa and BREb is shown. However, the inventive concept should not be limited thereto. That is, the connection portion BRE may include at least one connection line connecting the second sub-sensing line SL-R2a and the second connection electrode CNE-R.

[0201] Fig.11 is a diagram showing an exemplary embodiment according to the present invention Fig. 9 2 is an exploded perspective view of the first sensing line SL-Ta and the first auxiliary sensing line SL-Tda shown in FIG.

[0202] Reference Fig. 9 and Fig.11 The first sensing line SL-Ta among the first sensing lines SL-T may include a first line portion SA1, a second line portion SA2, and a third line portion SA3, the first line portion SA1 and the second line portion SA2 each having a first line width DS1, and the third line portion SA3 having a second line width DS2 greater than the first line width DS1. The third line portion SA3 may be disposed between the first line portion SA1 and the second line portion SA2.

[0203] One end of the first line portion SA1 may be connected to a corresponding first sensing pad among the first sensing pads PD1, and the other end of the first line portion SA1 may be connected to one end of the third line portion SA3. One end of the second line portion SA2 may be connected to the first connection electrode CNE-T, and the other end of the second line portion SA2 may be connected to the other end of the third line portion SA3. The first line portion SA1, the second line portion SA2, and the third line portion SA3 may be formed integrally with each other.

[0204] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the third line portion SA3 may be provided with at least one opening OPk defined to pass through the third line portion SA3 and to extend in a longitudinal direction of the first sensing line SL-Ta. Fig.11 Two openings OPk are shown as representative examples.

[0205] The third line portion SA3 may include Fig.10 1 , and a first portion Ta1, a second portion Ta2, and a third portion Ta3 are spaced apart from each other in a plan view shown in . Each of the first portion Ta1, the second portion Ta2, and the third portion Ta3 may have a line width smaller than a line width of each of the first sensing lines SL-T except the first sensing line SL-Ta.

[0206] Specifically, in a plan view, the first connection wire BREa and the second connection wire BREb may cross the third line portion SA3. The first connection wire BREa and the third line portion SA3 crossing each other may be reduced in combination by passing through the opening OPk defined by the third line portion SA3. Similarly, the second connection wire BREb and the third line portion SA3 crossing each other may be reduced in combination by passing through the opening OPk defined by the third line portion SA3.

[0207] In addition, if Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 2 , the second line width DS2 of the third line portion SA3 may be greater than the line width of the second sub-sensing line SL-R2a.

[0208] The first auxiliary sensing line SL-Tda may include first auxiliary portions TP1a and TP1b overlapping the first and second line portions SA1 and SA2, respectively, and a second auxiliary portion TP2 overlapping the third line portion SA3. The second auxiliary portion TP2 may be disposed between the first auxiliary portions TP1a and TP1b and may be spaced apart from the first auxiliary portions TP1a and TP1b.

[0209] According to the present invention, the first connection wire BREa and the second connection wire BREb may be disposed in the spaces OPa and OPb between the second auxiliary portion TP2 and the first auxiliary portion TP1a and between the second auxiliary portion TP2 and the first auxiliary portion TP1b, respectively. The first connection wire BREa and the second connection wire BREb may be electrically separated from the first auxiliary sensing line SL-Tda by the spaces OPa and OPb.

[0210] Fig.12 is a diagram showing another exemplary embodiment according to the present invention Figure 6 An enlarged view of area BB is shown in FIG. Fig.13 According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Fig.12 A cross-sectional view taken along line III-III' shown in FIG.

[0211] Reference Fig.12 and Fig.13 , the first sensing lines SL-Ta1 may have a constant line width. That is, the first sensing lines SL-T may have the same line width as each other.

[0212] The connection portion BRE-1 may correspond to a first line portion of the first conductive layer IS-CL1 and may include a first connection wire BRE1 and a second connection wire BRE2. Fig.12 As described, each of the first and second connection lines BRE1 and BRE2 may electrically connect the second connection electrode CNE-R and the second sub-sensing line SL-R2a.

[0213] Each of the first connection line BRE1 and the second connection line BRE2 of the connection part BRE-1 may include at least one sub-connection line crossing the first sensing line SL-Ta1. According to the present invention, each of the first connection line BRE1 and the second connection line BRE2 may include three sub-connection lines. However, the number of sub-connection lines may vary.

[0214] like Fig.13 As shown in FIG. 1 , in a plan view, the first connection line BRE1 may include three sub-connection lines BRE1a, BRE1b, and BRE1c spaced apart from each other. At least a portion of each of the three sub-connection lines BRE1a, BRE1b, and BRE1c may overlap the first sensing line SL-Ta1.

[0215] In addition, the three sub-connection lines BRE1a, BRE1b, and BRE1c may not overlap with the first auxiliary sensing line SL-Tda1. For example, the three sub-connection lines BRE1a, BRE1b, and BRE1c may be disposed at a reference position. Fig.11 Described in the space OPa and OPb.

[0216] According to the above, the input sensing layer includes a first sensing line connected to a first sensing pattern and a second sensing line connected to a second sensing pattern spaced apart from the first sensing pattern. In a plan view, the first sensing line is disposed between the connection electrode and the second sensing line.

[0217] In a plan view, the connection portion crosses the first sensing line, is disposed on the first insulating layer, and electrically connects the second sensing line to the connection electrode through a contact hole defined through the second insulating layer. As a result, the electrical signal transmitted through the second sensing line is transmitted to the sensing pattern through the connection portion and the connection electrode.

[0218] Although certain exemplary embodiments and implementations have been described herein, other embodiments and modifications will be apparent from this specification. Therefore, the inventive concept is not limited to such embodiments, but to the broader scope of the appended claims and various obvious modifications and equivalent arrangements as will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

Claims

1. A sensing unit, comprising: a first conductive layer including a first line portion including a first auxiliary sensing line, a second auxiliary sensing line, and a connecting line having one end connected to the second auxiliary sensing line; an insulating layer, disposed on the first conductive layer; as well as a second conductive layer disposed on the insulating layer, the second conductive layer comprising: an electrode portion including a first sensing pattern and a second sensing pattern spaced apart from the first sensing pattern in a plan view; and a second line portion including a first sensing line overlapping the first auxiliary sensing line and electrically connected to the first sensing pattern and a second sensing line overlapping the second auxiliary sensing line and spaced apart from the first sensing line, The first sensing line is arranged between the second sensing pattern and the second sensing line, and the connecting line does not overlap with the first auxiliary sensing line, the connecting line crosses the first sensing line in the plan view, and the second sensing line is electrically connected to the second sensing pattern through a contact hole defined by passing through the insulating layer.

2. The sensing unit according to claim 1, wherein: The second conductive layer further includes a connection electrode connected to an end of the second sensing pattern, and the first conductive layer further includes an auxiliary connection electrode electrically connected to the connection electrode through a first contact hole among the contact holes and connected to the other end of the connection line.

3. The sensing unit according to claim 2, wherein: The second sensing line is electrically connected to the second auxiliary sensing line through a second contact hole among the contact holes.

4. The sensing unit according to claim 1, wherein: The first sensing line includes a first line portion having a first line width and a second line portion having a second line width greater than the first line width, and the connection line crosses the second line portion in the plan view.

5. The sensing unit according to claim 4, wherein: A line width of the second line portion of the first sensing line is greater than a line width of the second sensing line.

6. The sensing unit according to claim 4, wherein: An opening is defined to pass through the second line portion of the first sensing line and to extend in a longitudinal direction of the first sensing line, and the connection line overlaps the opening.

7. The sensing unit according to claim 4, wherein: The first auxiliary sensing line includes a first auxiliary portion overlapping the first line portion and a second auxiliary portion overlapping the second line portion and spaced apart from the first auxiliary portion, and the connection line is disposed in a space between the first auxiliary portion and the second auxiliary portion.

8. The sensing unit according to claim 1, wherein: The second sensing line includes a first line region and a second line region having line widths different from each other, and the connection line is connected to the second auxiliary sensing line overlapping the second line region having a line width greater than that of the first line region.

9. The sensing unit according to claim 1, wherein: The connecting line comprises: a first connection line crossing the first sensing line and electrically connecting the second sensing line and the second sensing pattern; and The second connection line, which is spaced apart from the first connection line, crosses the first sensing line and electrically connects the second sensing line and the second sensing pattern.

10. The sensing unit according to claim 9, wherein: Each of the first connection line and the second connection line includes a plurality of sub-connection lines crossing the first sensing line and spaced apart from each other.

11. The sensing unit according to claim 1, wherein: The electrode portion further comprises: a plurality of first sensing electrodes extending along a first direction and arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, each of the plurality of first sensing electrodes comprising a plurality of first sensing patterns and a first connection pattern connecting the plurality of first sensing patterns; and A plurality of second sensing electrodes are arranged in the first direction and extend along the second direction, each of the plurality of second sensing electrodes includes a plurality of second sensing patterns, and the second line portion includes a plurality of first sensing lines respectively connected to the plurality of first sensing electrodes and a plurality of second sensing lines respectively connected to the plurality of second sensing electrodes.

12. The sensing unit according to claim 11, wherein: The first sensing line is one first sensing line among the plurality of first sensing lines that is closest to the plurality of second sensing lines, and the second sensing line is one second sensing line among the plurality of second sensing lines that is closest to the plurality of first sensing lines.

13. The sensing unit according to claim 11, wherein: The plurality of second sensing lines include a first sub-sensing line and a second sub-sensing line spaced apart from the first sub-sensing line, and the plurality of second sensing electrodes are interposed between the first sub-sensing line and the second sub-sensing line, the first sub-sensing line is respectively connected to one end of a corresponding second sensing electrode among the plurality of second sensing electrodes, and the second sub-sensing line is respectively connected to the other end of other corresponding second sensing electrodes among the plurality of second sensing electrodes.

14. The sensing unit according to claim 11, wherein: The first conductive layer includes second connection patterns electrically connecting the second sensing patterns to each other.

15. A display device, comprising: Display panel; as well as a sensing unit disposed on the display panel and including a sensing area and a peripheral area adjacent to the sensing area, the sensing area and the peripheral area being defined in the sensing unit, the sensing unit including: an electrode portion disposed in the sensing area and including a first sensing electrode and a second sensing electrode spaced apart from the first sensing electrode in a plan view; a line portion overlapping the peripheral area and including a first sensing line connected to the first sensing electrode and a second sensing line spaced apart from the first sensing line; and a connecting line disposed on a different layer from the first sensing line and the second sensing line, the connecting line electrically connecting the second sensing line and the second sensing electrode, The connecting line crosses the first sensing line disposed between the second sensing electrode and the second sensing line in the plan view and is insulated from the first sensing line, and The sensing unit includes: a first insulating layer disposed on the display panel; a second insulating layer covering the connecting line disposed on the first insulating layer; and a third insulating layer covering the electrode portion and the line portion disposed on the second insulating layer.

16. The display device according to claim 15, further comprising a connection electrode connected to an end portion of the second sensing electrode, in, One end of the connection line is electrically connected to the connection electrode, and the other end of the connection line is electrically connected to the second sensing line.

17. The display device according to claim 15, wherein: Each of the first sensing line and the second sensing line includes: A first line is disposed on the first insulating layer; and A second line, overlapping the first line, is disposed on the second insulating layer and is electrically connected to the first line through a plurality of contact holes defined through the second insulating layer.

18. A sensing unit, comprising: a first insulating layer, comprising a sensing region and a peripheral region adjacent to the sensing region; a first conductive layer disposed on the first insulating layer and comprising a connection line overlapping the peripheral region and a first electrode portion disposed in the sensing region; a second insulating layer, disposed on the first conductive layer; as well as a line portion disposed on the second insulating layer and including a second electrode portion, a first sensing line, and a second sensing line, the second electrode portion including a first sensing electrode and a second sensing electrode disposed in the sensing region and spaced apart from each other, the first sensing line overlapping the peripheral region and connected to the first sensing electrode, the second sensing line being spaced apart from the second sensing electrode and the first sensing line being interposed between the second sensing line and the second sensing electrode, The connection line crosses the first sensing line in a plan view, and electrically connects the second sensing electrode and the second sensing line through a contact hole defined by passing through the second insulating layer.

19. The sensing unit according to claim 18, wherein: The contact holes include a first contact hole and a second contact hole, the second sensing electrode is electrically connected to one end of the connection line through the first contact hole, the second sensing line is electrically connected to the other end of the connection line through the second contact hole, and the first sensing line overlaps with a space between the first contact hole and the second contact hole.

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