Display devices

Abstract

The present application relates to a display device. The display device includes: a base layer; a first electrode on the base layer; a pixel-defining layer on the base layer, the pixel-defining layer including a display opening exposing the first electrode; a light-emitting pattern on the first electrode; a second electrode on the light-emitting pattern; a separation pattern on the second electrode, the separation pattern including a separation opening overlapping the display opening; and a color filter in the separation opening. The second electrode includes an electrode opening that overlaps the separation opening and is spaced apart from the display opening.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2019-0168966, filed on December 17, 2019, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The disclosure herein relates to displays, and to a display panel having improved reliability and a method of manufacturing the same. Background Art

[0004] Various display devices have been developed for use in multimedia devices such as televisions, mobile phones, tablet computers, navigation units, and game consoles. When external light is incident on the display device during use, the incident external light is reflected by electrodes in the display panel, etc., and may degrade the display quality of the display device.

[0005] Therefore, research on improving the display quality of a display device by reducing reflectivity caused by external light is required.

[0006] It should be understood that this technical background section is intended, in part, to provide a useful background for understanding the technology. However, this technical background section may also include ideas, concepts, or realizations that were not known or understood by those skilled in the relevant art before the corresponding effective filing date of the subject matter disclosed herein. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present disclosure provides a display device that reduces external light reflectivity.

[0008] Embodiments provide a display device that may include: a base layer; a first electrode disposed on the base layer; a pixel-defining layer disposed on the base layer, the pixel-defining layer including a display opening exposing the first electrode; a light-emitting pattern disposed on the first electrode; a second electrode disposed on the light-emitting pattern, the second electrode including an electrode opening; a partition pattern disposed on the second electrode, the partition pattern including a partition opening overlapping the display opening; and a color filter disposed in the partition opening. The electrode opening may overlap the partition opening and may be spaced apart from the display opening.

[0009] In an embodiment, the second electrode may include a first portion overlapping the light emitting pattern, a second portion overlapping the separation pattern, and a third portion extending from the first portion to the second portion.

[0010] In an embodiment, an area of ​​the first portion may be greater than an area of ​​the third portion.

[0011] In an embodiment, a plurality of third portions may be provided in a region overlapping the partition opening.

[0012] In an embodiment, a plurality of electrode openings may be provided in a region overlapping with the separation opening.

[0013] In an embodiment, the display device may further include at least one of a hole transport region disposed between the first electrode and the light emitting pattern and an electron transport region disposed between the light emitting pattern and the second electrode.

[0014] In an embodiment, the electrode opening of the second electrode may expose a portion of one of the hole transport region, the electron transport region, and the pixel defining layer in a region overlapping the separation opening.

[0015] In an embodiment, the area of ​​the partition opening may be larger than the area of ​​the display opening.

[0016] In an embodiment, the pixel defining layer may have a black pixel defining layer.

[0017] In an embodiment, the display device may further include an encapsulation member disposed between the pixel defining layer and the color filter and overlapping the second electrode. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The accompanying drawings illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure. In the drawings:

[0019] Figure 1A is a perspective view showing a display device according to an embodiment;

[0020] Figure 1B is a perspective view showing a state in which the display device according to the embodiment is folded;

[0021] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a display device according to an embodiment;

[0022] Figure 3A is a plan view showing a display area of ​​a display panel according to an embodiment;

[0023] Figure 3B It shows Figure 3A an enlarged plan view of a region of a display area of ​​a display panel;

[0024] Figure 4 is a plan view showing one configuration of a display device according to an embodiment;

[0025] Figure 5 It is along Figure 3AA schematic cross-sectional view taken along line II';

[0026] Figure 6A is a plan view showing a display area of ​​a display panel according to an embodiment;

[0027] Figure 6B It shows Figure 6A an enlarged plan view of a region of a display area of ​​a display panel;

[0028] Figure 7 is a plan view showing a display area of ​​a display panel according to an embodiment;

[0029] Figure 8 is a plan view showing a display area of ​​a display panel according to an embodiment;

[0030] Figure 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a display device according to an embodiment;

[0031] Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment;

[0032] Figure 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an organic electroluminescent light-emitting element according to an embodiment; and

[0033] Figure 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a color filter member according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] The present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments are shown. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0035] For the purpose of describing the embodiments of the present disclosure, some parts irrelevant to the description may not be provided, and the same reference numerals denote the same elements throughout the specification.

[0036] As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Throughout this disclosure, the expression "at least one of a, b, and c" means only a, only b, only c, both a and b, both a and c, both b and c, or all of a, b, and c.

[0037] The terms "and" and "or" can be used in conjunction or disjunction and can be understood as equivalent to "and / or". In the specification and claims, for the purpose of its meaning and interpretation, the phrase "at least one of..." is intended to include the meaning of "at least one selected from the group of..." For example, "at least one of A and B" can be understood to mean "A, B, or A and B".

[0038] It should be understood that although terms such as "first" and "second" are used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. It should be understood that although terms such as "first" and "second" are used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. For example, an element referred to as a first element in one embodiment may be referred to as a second element in another embodiment without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

[0039] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0040] It should also be understood that when the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” “have,” and / or “having” are used in this specification, they or it may specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or any combination thereof.

[0041] When a layer, film, zone, substrate, region, or element is referred to as being "on" another layer, film, zone, substrate, region, or element, it may be directly on the other layer, film, zone, substrate, region, or element, or there may be an intervening layer, film, zone, substrate, region, or element between them. Conversely, when a layer, film, zone, substrate, region, or element is referred to as being "directly" "on" another layer, film, zone, substrate, region, or element, there may not be an intervening layer, film, zone, substrate, region, or element between them. In addition, when a layer, film, zone, substrate, region, or element is referred to as being "below" another layer, film, zone, substrate, region, or element, it may be directly below the other layer, film, zone, substrate, region, or element, or there may be an intervening layer, film, zone, substrate, region, or element between them. In contrast, when a layer, film, region, substrate, area, or element is referred to as being "directly below" another layer, film, region, substrate, area, or element, there may be no intervening layers, films, regions, substrates, areas, or elements therebetween. Furthermore, "above" or "over" can include positioning above or below an object and does not necessarily imply a direction based on gravity.

[0042] For ease of description, spatially relative terms such as "below," "beneath," "below," "above," "upper," etc. may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element or component and another element or component as shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the accompanying drawings. For example, where the device shown in the figures is flipped, a device positioned "below" or "below" another device can be placed "above" the other device. Thus, the illustrative term "below" can include both a lower position and an upper position. The device may also be oriented in other directions, and thus the spatially relative terms may be interpreted differently depending on the orientation.

[0043] In the accompanying drawings, the sizes and thicknesses of elements may be exaggerated for better understanding, clarity, and ease of description. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the sizes and thicknesses shown. In the accompanying drawings, the thicknesses of layers, films, panels, regions, and other elements may be exaggerated for clarity. In the accompanying drawings, the thicknesses of some layers and regions may be exaggerated for better understanding and ease of description.

[0044] In addition, the term "overlap" or "overlapping" means that the first object can be above or below the second object, or on one side of the second object, and vice versa. In addition, the term "overlap" can include layers, stacks, facing or facing, extending coverage, covering or partially covering, or any other suitable term as will be appreciated and understood by those of ordinary skill in the art. The terms "facing" and "facing" mean that the first element can be directly or indirectly opposite to the second element. In the case where a third element is inserted between the first element and the second element, the first element and the second element can be understood to be indirectly opposite to each other, but still facing each other. When an element is described as "not overlapping" or "not overlapping" with another element, this can include elements being spaced apart from each other, offset from each other, or arranged side by side with each other, or any other suitable term as will be appreciated and understood by those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0045] Furthermore, in this specification, the phrase “in a plan view” means that a subject portion is viewed from above, and the phrase “in a schematic sectional view” means that a schematic cross section taken by vertically cutting the subject portion is viewed from the side.

[0046] It should be understood that when a layer, region, or component is referred to as being “connected” or “coupled” to another layer, region, or component, it may be “directly connected” or “directly coupled” to the other layer, region, or component and / or may be “indirectly connected” or “indirectly coupled” to the other layer, region, or component with other layers, regions, or components interposed therebetween. For example, it should be understood that when a layer, region, or component is referred to as being “electrically connected” or “electrically coupled” to another layer, region, or component, it may be “directly electrically connected” or “directly electrically coupled” to the other layer, region, or component, and may be “indirectly electrically connected” or “indirectly electrically coupled” to the other layer, region, or component with other layers, regions, or components interposed therebetween.

[0047] In addition, when an element is referred to as being “in contact” or “contacted” with another element, the element may be “electrically in contact” or “physically in contact” with the other element, or “indirectly in contact” or “directly in contact” with the other element.

[0048] As used herein, "about" or "approximately" includes the stated value and the mean within an acceptable deviation range for the particular value determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, taking into account the measurement in question and the errors associated with the measurement of the particular quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system). For example, "about" can mean within one or more standard deviations of the stated value, or within ±30%, ±20%, ±10%, ±5% of the stated value.

[0049] In the following examples, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis are not limited to the three axes of the rectangular coordinate system and can be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis can be perpendicular to each other, or can represent different directions that are not perpendicular to each other.

[0050] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the embodiments pertain. In addition, it will be further understood that 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 will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined as such herein.

[0051] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0052] Figure 1A is a perspective view showing a display device according to an embodiment. Figure 1B is a perspective view illustrating a state in which the display apparatus according to the embodiment is folded. Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a display device according to an embodiment.

[0053] refer to Figure 1A , the display device DS can display one or more images IM via the display surface IS. Figure 1A In the embodiment, the display surface IS may be parallel to a surface defined by the first direction axis DR1 and the second direction axis DR2 intersecting the first direction axis DR1. However, this is merely an example. In an embodiment, the display surface IS of the display device DS may have a substantially curved shape.

[0054] The normal direction of the display surface IS (for example, the thickness direction of the display device DS) represents the third directional axis DR3. The front surface (or top surface) and the rear surface (or bottom surface) of each of the components can be distinguished by the third directional axis DR3. However, the directions indicated by the first directional axis DR1, the second directional axis DR2, and the third directional axis DR3 may be relative concepts and may be replaced with each other. Hereinafter, the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction may be defined as directions indicated by the first directional axis DR1, the second directional axis DR2, and the third directional axis DR3, respectively, and represented by the same reference numerals.

[0055] exist Figure 1AIn the present disclosure, a portable electronic device is shown as an example of the display device DS. However, as non-limiting examples, the display device DS can be used in large electronic devices such as televisions, monitors, or indoor / outdoor advertising boards, as well as small and medium-sized electronic devices such as personal computers, notebook computers, personal digital assistants, vehicle navigation units, game consoles, smartphones, tablet computers, and cameras. The above devices are merely examples of implementations, and therefore, the display device DS can be applied to other electronic devices within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0056] The display surface IS may include a display area DA on which an image IM may be displayed and a non-display area NDA disposed adjacent to the display area DA. The non-display area NDA may be an area on which no image may be displayed. Figure 1A , a clock window and application icons are shown as examples of the image IM.

[0057] The display area DA may be arranged as a plane defined by a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2. The non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA or be adjacent to the display area DA. However, embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the shapes of the display area DA and the non-display area NDA may be designed relative to each other. As an example, the non-display area NDA may not exist on the front surface of the display device DS.

[0058] Reference Figure 1B , the display device DS according to the embodiment can be folded along one direction. For example, the display device DS can be folded along a virtual folding axis FX extending in the first direction DR1 with a predetermined curvature. Figure 1B In the embodiment, the display device DS can illustratively be transformed into an inwardly folded state in which the display surfaces IS can face each other.

[0059] However, embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the display device DS may be deformed into an outwardly folded state in which the rear surface of the display device DS, which may be opposite to the display surface IS, may face each other, or the display device DS may be folded about two or more folding axes. Although the display device DS may have a region curved with a predetermined curvature, embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0060] Reference Figure 2 According to an embodiment, a display device DS may include a display panel DP and a color filter member CFP. The display device DS may include a grayscale display layer that can generate an image. Depending on the type of display panel DP, the grayscale display layer may include a liquid crystal display panel, an organic electroluminescent display panel, or an electrophoretic display panel. It should be understood that a "member" may include a layer. Therefore, the color filter member CFP may be a color filter layer within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0061] In an embodiment, the display panel DP may include a base layer BL and a circuit layer DP-CL and a display element layer DP-OEL that may be provided or disposed on the base layer BL. In an embodiment, the base layer BL, the circuit layer DP-CL, and the display element layer DP-OEL may be sequentially stacked in the direction of the third directional axis DR3.

[0062] The base layer BL may be a member that provides a base surface on which the circuit layer DP-CL may be disposed. The base layer BL may include a glass substrate, a metal substrate, a plastic substrate, or other materials within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. However, embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the base layer BL may include at least one of an organic layer, an inorganic layer, and a composite layer that may contain polyimide.

[0063] In an embodiment, the circuit layer DP-CL may be disposed on the base layer BL and may include transistors (not shown). Each of the transistors (not shown) may include a control electrode, an input electrode, and an output electrode. For example, the circuit layer DP-CL may include a driving transistor and a switching transistor that may drive an organic electroluminescent element. Therefore, in an embodiment, the display panel DP, which may be a grayscale display layer, may be an organic electroluminescent display panel.

[0064] In an embodiment, the display element layer DP-OEL may include an organic light emitting element electrically connected to the circuit layer DP-CL and a sealing member covering or overlapping the organic light emitting element. Therefore, since the organic light emitting element can be sealed by the sealing member to block moisture and oxygen introduced into the organic light emitting element, the display device DS can have improved reliability.

[0065] A color filter member CFP may be provided on the display panel DP. The color filter member CFP may be an anti-reflection member that can minimize reflection caused by light incident from the outside. For example, the color filter member CFP may block a portion of external light. The color filter member CFP may be provided on the display panel DP and can reduce reflection caused by external light and minimize brightness degradation.

[0066] Figure 3A is a plan view showing a display area of ​​a display panel according to an embodiment. Figure 3B It shows Figure 3A An enlarged plan view of an area of ​​the display area of ​​the display panel. Figure 4 is a plan view showing a configuration of a display device according to an embodiment. Figure 5 It is along Figure 3A A schematic cross-sectional view taken along line II'. Figures 1A to 2Components identical or similar to those described in will be denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, respectively, and their repeated description will be omitted.

[0067] refer to Figure 3A 、 Figure 3B and Figure 5 The display panel DP according to the embodiment may include a base layer BL, a circuit layer DP-CL, and a display element layer DP-OEL. Although not shown, the organic electroluminescent element OEL of the display element layer DP-OEL may be electrically connected to the transistor (not shown) of the circuit layer DP-CL.

[0068] Each of the organic electroluminescent elements OEL according to the embodiment may include a first electrode EL1, a hole transport region HTR disposed on the first electrode EL1, a light emitting pattern EML disposed on the hole transport region HTR, an electron transport region ETR disposed on the light emitting pattern EML, and a second electrode EL2 disposed on the electron transport region ETR. The light emitting pattern EML may be divided by a pixel defining layer PDL.

[0069] The pixel defining layer (PDL) may be disposed on the circuit layer DP-CL. A display opening (D-OP) exposing at least a portion of the first electrode EL1 may be defined in the pixel defining layer (PDL). The pixel defining layer (PDL) may be made of a polymer resin. For example, the pixel defining layer (PDL) may include a polyacrylate-based resin or a polyimide-based resin. In addition to polymer resins, the pixel defining layer (PDL) may include an inorganic material.

[0070] The first electrode EL1 may be disposed on the circuit layer DP-CL. The first electrode EL1 may be exposed from the pixel defining layer PDL through the display opening D-OP. The first electrode EL1 may be electrically connected to a transistor (not shown) of the circuit layer DP-CL through a contact hole (not shown) defined in the circuit layer DP-CL.

[0071] The light-emitting pattern EML may be disposed in the display opening D-OP defined in the pixel defining layer PDL. The light-emitting pattern EML may include a light-emitting material. For example, the light-emitting pattern EML may be made of at least one of materials that emit red light, green light, and blue light, respectively, and may include a fluorescent material or a phosphorescent material. The light-emitting pattern EML may include an organic light-emitting material or an inorganic light-emitting material. The light-emitting pattern EML may emit light in response to a potential difference between the first electrode EL1 and the second electrode EL2.

[0072] The second electrode EL2 may be disposed on the light emitting pattern EML. The second electrode EL2 may face the first electrode EL1. The second electrode EL2 may be shared by the organic electroluminescent elements OEL. The light emitting pattern EML disposed in each of the organic electroluminescent elements OEL may receive a common power supply voltage through the second electrode EL2.

[0073] The second electrode EL2 may include a transmissive conductive material or a semi-transmissive conductive material. Therefore, light emitted from the light emitting pattern EML may be emitted in the third direction DR3 through the second electrode EL2.

[0074] However, this is merely an example. For example, depending on the design, the organic electroluminescent element OEL may be driven by a rear-emission method, in which the first electrode EL1 may include a transmissive conductive material or a semi-transmissive conductive material, or the organic electroluminescent element OEL may be driven by a dual-surface emission method that emits light to both the front and rear surfaces. However, embodiments are not limited thereto. The light-emitting pattern EML may be included in each of the organic electroluminescent elements OEL, or when a plurality of light-emitting patterns EML are provided, the plurality of light-emitting patterns EML may be included in the organic electroluminescent element OEL, respectively. On the other hand, the second electrode EL2 may have an integrated shape provided on the front surface of the circuit layer DP-CL. Therefore, the organic electroluminescent element OEL can receive a common voltage via the second electrode EL2 having an integrated shape.

[0075] Although not shown in the drawings, in embodiments, the organic electroluminescent element OEL may include at least one auxiliary layer (not shown) between the first electrode EL1 and the second electrode EL2. Whether the auxiliary layer (not shown) is provided, the thickness of the auxiliary layer (not shown), and the number of auxiliary layers (not shown) may vary depending on the wavelength range of the emitted light. The auxiliary layer (not shown) may be an organic layer that can adjust the resonance distance in the organic electroluminescent element OEL.

[0076] The encapsulation member TFE may be disposed on the organic electroluminescent element OEL. The encapsulation member TFE may be disposed on the second electrode EL2. The encapsulation member TFE may be disposed directly on the second electrode EL2. The encapsulation member TFE may be a single layer or a stacked layer. For example, the encapsulation member TFE may have a stacked structure including an inorganic layer and an organic layer sealed by the inorganic layer. The encapsulation member TFE may be a thin film encapsulation layer. The encapsulation member TFE may protect the organic electroluminescent element OEL from moisture and oxygen introduced from the outside.

[0077] The display device DS may include a color filter member CFP disposed on the display panel DP. The color filter member CFP may include color filters CCF1, CCF2, and CCF3. The color filters CCF1, CCF2, and CCF3 may be spaced apart from each other in a plan view. The color filters CCF1, CCF2, and CCF3 may not overlap with each other.

[0078] The color filters CCF1 , CCF2 , and CCF3 may be spaced apart from each other in a plan view, and the color filters CCF1 , CCF2 , and CCF3 may be disposed to correspond to the light emitting regions PXA-B, PXA-G, and PXA-R, respectively.

[0079] In an embodiment, the first color filter CCF1 may be a blue filter emitting blue light, the second color filter CCF2 may be a green filter emitting green light, and the third color filter CCF3 may be a red filter emitting red light.

[0080] Each of the color filters CCF1, CCF2, and CCF3 may include a polymer photosensitive resin and a pigment or dye. The first color filter CCF1 may include a blue pigment or dye, the second color filter CCF2 may include a green pigment or dye, and the third color filter CCF3 may include a red pigment or dye.

[0081] However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the first color filter CCF1 may not contain a pigment or dye. The first color filter CCF1 may contain a polymer photosensitive resin and may not contain a pigment or dye. The first color filter CCF1 may be transparent. The first color filter CCF1 may be made of a transparent photosensitive resin.

[0082] In an implementation, the color filter member CFP may include a separation pattern BW and an organic layer OC.

[0083] In an embodiment, the partition pattern BW may be provided on the encapsulation member TFE. The partition pattern BW may overlap with the pixel defining layer PDL. Therefore, the partition pattern BW may not overlap with the display opening D-OP defined in the pixel defining layer PDL. The partition pattern BW may not overlap with the light emitting pattern EML. The partition opening BW-OP overlapping with the display opening D-OP may be defined in the partition pattern BW.

[0084] The area of ​​the partition opening BW-OP can be defined as the maximum area from which light generated from one organic electroluminescent element OEL can be emitted without mixing with light emitted from another organic electroluminescent element disposed adjacent thereto. Therefore, in a plan view, the region in which the partition pattern BW can be disposed can be defined as a non-luminescent region NPXA, and the region corresponding to the partition opening BW-OP can be defined as luminescent regions PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B, to which light generated from the organic electroluminescent element OEL can be supplied.

[0085] The separation pattern BW, which may be a pattern having a black color, may be a black matrix. The separation pattern BW may include a black colorant. The black colorant may include a black pigment and / or a black dye. The black colorant may include a metal such as chromium and carbon black or an oxide thereof.

[0086] The partition openings BW-OP defined in the partition pattern BW may be defined differently depending on the optical characteristics of the partition pattern BW. As in the embodiment, the partition openings BW-OP corresponding to the light-emitting regions PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B, respectively, may be defined in the partition pattern BW that blocks visible light rays of substantially the entire wavelength range. However, a smaller number of partition openings BW-OP may be defined in the partition pattern BW that may allow at least one of specific color lights (e.g., red, green, or blue light) to transmit therethrough.

[0087] An organic layer OC may be provided on the color filters CCF1, CCF2, and CCF3. The organic layer OC may surround an uneven portion of each of the color filters CCF1, CCF2, and CCF3. For example, the organic layer OC may be a planarization layer in the color filter member CFP. The organic layer OC may be filled between the color filters CCF1, CCF2, and CCF3 and the separation pattern BW, and may flatten the top surface of the color filter member CFP that may be exposed to the outside.

[0088] The organic layer OC may be a protective layer that may protect the color filters CCF1, CCF2, and CCF3. The organic layer OC may be transparent. The organic layer OC may be made of a polymer resin. In addition to the polymer resin, the organic layer OC may include functional materials. For example, the organic layer OC may include functional materials such as a light absorber and an antioxidant. In an embodiment, the organic layer OC may include a scattering agent.

[0089] According to an embodiment, the emission area of ​​light provided from the organic electroluminescent element OEL can be determined by the area of ​​the partition opening BW-OP defined in the partition pattern BW. Therefore, since the interference between the light provided from the organic electroluminescent element OEL and the partition pattern BW is minimized, the luminous efficiency can be increased.

[0090] According to an embodiment, the partition opening BW-OP may have an area larger than the display opening D-OP defined in the pixel defining layer PDL. Therefore, a defect may occur in which the second electrode EL2 that overlaps with the light-emitting areas PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B and that may not overlap with the light-emitting pattern EML reflects external light and is therefore visible to the user.

[0091] Figure 4 The relationship between the partition pattern BW of the color filter member CFP and the light-emitting regions PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B and the non-light-emitting region NPXA is shown. The region in which the partition pattern BW can be provided can be defined as the non-light-emitting region NPXA, and the partition opening BW-OP defined in the partition pattern BW can be defined as the light-emitting regions PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B.

[0092] Reference again Figure 3A and Figure 3B The second electrode EL2 according to an embodiment may have a shape in which a portion that may not overlap with the light emitting pattern EML among portions overlapping with the light emitting regions PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B may be patterned.

[0093] In an embodiment, the second electrode EL2 may include an electrode opening EL2-OP, and the electrode opening EL2-OP may overlap with the partition opening BW-OP and may not overlap with the display opening D-OP. The electrode opening EL2-OP may be provided in each of the light-emitting regions PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B. Therefore, the second electrode EL2 may overlap with at least a portion of the partition pattern BW and at least a portion of the light-emitting pattern EML in a plan view. Figure 5 As shown in FIG, a portion of the electron transport region ETR may be exposed from the second electrode EL2 through the electrode opening EL2-OP in a region overlapping with the light emitting regions PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B (eg, a region overlapping with the separation opening BW-OP).

[0094] However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. Although a portion of one of the hole transport region HTR and the pixel defining layer PDL may be exposed from the second electrode EL2 through the electrode opening EL2-OP in the region overlapping with the light emitting regions PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B (for example, the region overlapping with the partition opening BW-OP) (because components provided above the hole transport region HTR and the pixel defining layer PDL may be omitted), the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0095] exist Figure 3A and Figure 3B In the figure, for the convenience of description, the area overlapping with the second electrode EL2 in the plan view can be indicated by a dotted line.

[0096] Reference Figure 3B In an embodiment, the second electrode EL2 may include a first portion CE-P, a second portion CE-W, and a third portion CE-C. The first portion CE-P, the second portion CE-W, and the third portion CE-C are components that may substantially constitute one second electrode EL2 and may be distinguished for convenience of description.

[0097] The first portion CE-P may overlap at least a portion of the light emitting pattern EML. The first portion CE-P of the second electrode EL2 (which may be a portion that can provide an electric field to the light emitting pattern EML in conjunction with the corresponding first electrode EL1) may be a necessary portion necessary for generating light. The first portion CE-P may be provided in each of the light emitting regions PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B.

[0098] The second portion CE-W may overlap at least a portion of the partition pattern BW. Since the second electrode EL2 may be disposed on the front surface of the circuit layer DP-CL, the second portion CE-W of the second electrode EL2 may overlap the non-emission area NPXA in which the partition pattern BW adjacent thereto may be disposed.

[0099] The third portion CE-C may extend from the first portion CE-P to the second portion CE-W. The third portion CE-C may connect the second portion CE-W, which may overlap with the non-light-emitting area NPXA, to the first portion CE-P overlapping with the light-emitting areas PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B, so as to apply a common voltage to the first portion CE-P overlapping with the light-emitting areas PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B.

[0100] In an embodiment, the area of ​​the first portion CE-P may be greater than the area of ​​the third portion CE-C. The electrode opening EL2-OP may be provided by removing the remaining portion of the second electrode EL2 disposed in the light emitting regions PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B except for the first portion CE-P and the third portion CE-C.

[0101] According to an embodiment, since the remaining portions of the second electrode EL2, which overlap with the light-emitting regions PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B, except for a predetermined portion (which may be necessary for generating light), are removed, a defect in which light incident on the light-emitting regions PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B is reflected by an unnecessary portion of the second electrode EL2 and viewed by a user can be minimized. Therefore, a display device with improved visibility can be provided.

[0102] Figure 6A is a plan view showing a display area of ​​a display panel according to an embodiment. Figure 6B It shows Figure 6A An enlarged plan view of a region of the display area of ​​the display panel. Figures 1A to 5 The same or similar components in the drawings will be denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, respectively, and repeated description thereof will be omitted.

[0103] Reference Figure 6A and Figure 6B In an embodiment, the second electrode EL2 - 1 may include a first portion CE-P1 , a second portion CE-W1 , and a third portion CE-C1 .

[0104] The first portion CE-P1 may be disposed in each of the emission regions PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B. The second portion CE-W1 may overlap the non-emission region NPXA. The third portion CE-C1 may extend from the first portion CE-P1 to the second portion CE-W1.

[0105] In an embodiment, a plurality of third portions CE-C1 may be provided in a single light-emitting region. For example, the third portion CE-C1 may include a first connection portion C1, a second connection portion C2, a third connection portion C3, and a fourth connection portion C4. The first connection portion C1, the second connection portion C2, the third connection portion C3, and the fourth connection portion C4 may be spaced apart from one another in the single light-emitting region and each may extend from a different portion of the first portion CE-P1 to the second portion CE-W1.

[0106] Since the third portion CE-C1 can be provided in plurality, the electrode opening EL2-OP can also be provided in plurality accordingly. Therefore, a plurality of electrode openings EL2-OP can be provided in one light emitting region.

[0107] In an embodiment, since the third portion CE-C1 may include the first connection portion C1, the second connection portion C2, the third connection portion C3, and the fourth connection portion C4, although one of the first connection portion C1, the second connection portion C2, the third connection portion C3, and the fourth connection portion C4 may be disconnected from the first portion CE-P1, the first portion CE-P1 may still be electrically connected to the second portion CE-W1 to further stably drive the organic electroluminescent element OEL (refer to Figure 5 ).

[0108] Figure 7 is a plan view showing a display area of ​​a display panel according to an embodiment. Figures 1A to 5 The same or similar components in the drawings will be denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, respectively, and repeated description thereof will be omitted.

[0109] Reference Figure 7 In an embodiment, the second electrode EL2 - 2 may include a first portion CE-P2 , a second portion CE-W2 , and a third portion CE-C2 .

[0110] The first portion CE-P2 may be disposed in each of the emission regions PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B. The second portion CE-W2 may overlap the non-emission region NPXA. The third portion CE-C2 may extend from the first portion CE-P2 to the second portion CE-W2.

[0111] In an embodiment, the third portion CE-C2 may include a first connection portion C1 and a second connection portion C2, the first connection portion C1 and the second connection portion C2 may be spaced apart from each other, and the first portion CE-P2 is between the first connection portion C1 and the second connection portion C2 in the second direction DR2. However, this is merely an example, and the embodiment is not limited to the number and shape of the third portions CE-C2, as long as the third portion CE-C2 connects the first portion CE-P2 to the second portion CE-W2.

[0112] In an embodiment, the first portion CE-P2 may have a dimension in the first direction DR1 that may be different from a dimension in the second direction DR2. For example, the first portion CE-P2 may extend in the second direction DR2.

[0113] In an embodiment, the areas of the light emitting regions PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B corresponding to the partition opening BW-OP may vary according to purpose, and the area of ​​each of the display opening D-OP and the first portion CE-P2 may also vary accordingly.

[0114] Figure 8 is a plan view showing a display area of ​​a display panel according to an embodiment. Figures 1A to 5 The same or similar components in the drawings will be denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, respectively, and repeated description thereof will be omitted.

[0115] Reference Figure 8 The light emitting regions PXA-1, PXA-2, and PXA-3 corresponding to the partition opening BW-OP may have a pentile structure. The pentile structure may be defined such that the light emitting regions PXA-1, PXA-2, and PXA-3 having different areas may be arranged or disposed in a substantially diamond shape.

[0116] Therefore, the second electrodes EL2-3 that may be respectively disposed in the light-emitting regions PXA-1, PXA-2, and PXA-3 may have different areas from each other. Therefore, for each of the light-emitting regions PXA-1, PXA-2, and PXA-3, each of the partition openings BW-OP and the display openings D-OP may also have different areas.

[0117] although Figure 8 The light emitting areas PXA-1, PXA-2, PXA-3, the partition openings BW-OP1, BW-OP2, and BW-OP3, the display openings D-OP1, D-OP2, and D-OP3, and the electrode openings EL2-OP1, EL2-OP2, and EL2-OP3 are shown arranged as shown and include the fourth direction DR4 and the fifth direction DR5, but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0118] Figure 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a display device according to an embodiment. Figures 1A to 5 The same or similar components in the drawings will be denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, respectively, and repeated descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0119] The display device DS-A according to the embodiment may include a base layer BL, a circuit layer DP-CL, a display element layer DP-OEL, a detection sensor TSU, and a color filter member CFP.

[0120] The detecting sensor TSU may be disposed between the display element layer DP-OEL and the color filter member CFP. The detecting sensor TSU may detect an external input.

[0121] External input may include various types of input provided from outside the display device DS-A. External input applied from the outside may be provided in various types. For example, external input may include contact through a part of the user's body (such as a hand) and external input (e.g., hovering) that may be applied adjacent to the display device DS-A or set to a predetermined distance adjacent to the display device DS-A. External input may be of various types, such as force, pressure, and light. However, embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0122] The detection sensor TSU may include insulating layers (not shown) and conductive layers (not shown) disposed between the insulating layers. The insulating layers (not shown) may include organic and / or inorganic materials.

[0123] For example, the conductive layer can detect external input through a self-capacitance method or a mutual capacitance method. As long as the conductive layer can detect external input, the conductive layer can be appropriately deformed differently according to the method to be set and connected. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0124] Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment. Figures 1A to 5 The same or similar components in the drawings will be denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, respectively, and repeated description thereof will be omitted.

[0125] The display device DS-B according to the embodiment may include a base layer BL, a circuit layer DP-CL, a display element layer DP-OEL, and a color filter member CFP.

[0126] In an embodiment, the pixel defining layer PDL-B may have a black color. The pixel defining layer PDL-B may include a light absorbing material or a black pigment or dye. The pixel defining layer PDL-B including the black pigment or dye may realize a black pixel defining layer. Although carbon black may be used as the black pigment or dye of the pixel defining layer PDL-B, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0127] Figure 11 : is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an organic electroluminescent element according to an embodiment. Figures 1A to 5 The same or similar components in the drawings will be denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, respectively, and repeated description thereof will be omitted.

[0128] Figure 11 It shows Figure 5 Schematic cross-sectional view of the layer structure of the organic electroluminescent element OEL.

[0129] The organic electroluminescent element OEL may include a first electrode EL1, a hole transport region HTR disposed on the first electrode EL1, a light emitting pattern EML disposed on the hole transport region HTR, an electron transport region ETR disposed on the light emitting pattern EML, and a second electrode EL2 disposed on the electron transport region ETR. Here, the hole transport region HTR may include a hole injection layer HIL and a hole transport layer HTL, and the electron transport region ETR may include an electron injection layer EIL and an electron transport layer ETL. Figure 5 As shown in , the layer OL may include a hole transport region HTR, a light emitting pattern EML, and an electron transport region ETR.

[0130] The first electrode EL1 of the organic electroluminescent element OEL may have conductivity. The first electrode EL1 may be made of a metal alloy or a conductive compound. The first electrode EL1 may be an anode. The first electrode EL1 may be a pixel electrode.

[0131] The first electrode EL1 may be a reflective electrode in the organic electroluminescent element OEL according to an embodiment. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the first electrode EL1 may be a transmissive electrode or a semi-transmissive electrode. When the first electrode EL1 is a semi-transmissive electrode or a reflective electrode, the first electrode EL1 may include Ag, Mg, Cu, Al, Pt, Pd, Au, Ni, Nd, Ir, Cr, Li, Ca, LiF / Ca, LiF / Al, Mo, Ti, or a compound or mixture thereof (e.g., a mixture of Ag and Mg). Alternatively, the first electrode EL1 may have a multilayer structure including a reflective layer or a semi-transmissive layer and a transparent conductive layer, the reflective layer or the semi-transmissive layer may be made of the above materials, and the transparent conductive layer may be made of indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), or indium tin zinc oxide (ITZO). For example, the first electrode EL1 may be a plurality of metal layers or have a structure having a metal layer in which ITO / Ag / ITO may be stacked.

[0132] The hole transport region HTR may have a single layer made of a single material, a single layer made of different materials, or a multilayer structure including layers made of different materials. For example, the hole transport region HTR may have a structure including a single layer made of different materials, or a structure in which a hole injection layer HIL / hole transport layer HTL, a hole injection layer HIL / hole transport layer HTL / buffer layer (not shown), a hole injection layer HIL / buffer layer (not shown), a hole transport layer HTL / buffer layer (not shown), or a hole injection layer HIL / hole transport layer HTL / electron blocking layer (not shown) may be stacked in sequence from the first electrode EL1. However, embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0133] For example, the hole transport region HTR may include a hole injection layer HIL and a hole transport layer HTL, and a hole injection material and a hole transport material may be used for the hole injection layer HIL and the hole transport layer HTL, respectively.

[0134] The hole transport region HTR may be disposed on the first electrode EL1 in the opening defined in the pixel defining layer PDL and extend to the upper portion of the pixel defining layer PDL. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the hole transport region HTR may be patterned to be disposed in the opening.

[0135] The light emitting pattern EML may be disposed on the hole transport region HTR. The light emitting pattern EML may have a single layer made of a single material, a single layer made of different materials, or a multi-layer structure including layers made of different materials.

[0136] However, the embodiment is not limited to the material of the light emitting pattern EML, as long as the material within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure is used. For example, the light emitting pattern EML may be made of a material that emits red light, green light, and blue light, or include a phosphorescent material or a fluorescent material. The light emitting pattern EML may include a host or a dopant. For example, referring to Figure 5 , the light emitting pattern EML may be provided in the display opening D-OP defined in the pixel defining layer PDL. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0137] The electron transport region ETR may be disposed on the emission pattern EML. Although the electron transport region ETR may include at least one of a hole blocking layer (not shown), an electron transport layer ETL, and an electron injection layer EIL, embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0138] When the electron transport region ETR includes the electron injection layer EIL and the electron transport layer ETL, electron injection materials and electron transport materials may be used for the electron injection layer EIL and the electron transport layer ETL, respectively.

[0139] The second electrode EL2 may be disposed on the electron transport region ETR. The second electrode EL2 may be a common electrode or a cathode. The second electrode EL2 may be made of a metal alloy or a conductive compound. The second electrode EL2 may be a transmissive electrode, a semi-transmissive electrode, or a reflective electrode. When the second electrode EL2 is a transmissive electrode, the second electrode EL2 may be made of a transparent metal oxide, such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), or indium tin zinc oxide (ITZO).

[0140] When the second electrode EL2 is a semi-transmissive electrode or a reflective electrode, the second electrode EL2 may include Ag, Mg, Cu, Al, Pt, Pd, Au, Ni, Nd, Ir, Cr, Li, Ca, LiF / Ca, LiF / Al, Mo, Ti, or a compound or mixture thereof (e.g., a mixture of Ag and Mg). Alternatively, the second electrode EL2 may have a multilayer structure including a reflective layer or a semi-transmissive layer and a transparent conductive layer. The reflective layer or the semi-transmissive layer may be made of the above materials, and the transparent conductive layer may be made of indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), or indium tin zinc oxide (ITZO).

[0141] According to an embodiment, since the remaining portion except for the portion that may generate light in the region overlapping the light emitting region is removed, external light reflectivity caused by external light may be minimized even when the second electrode EL2 includes a semi-transmissive electrode or a reflective electrode.

[0142] Figure 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a color filter member according to an embodiment. Figures 1A to 5 The same or similar components in the drawings will be denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, respectively, and repeated description thereof will be omitted.

[0143] Figure 12 It shows Figure 5 Schematic cross-sectional view of a color filter member CFP of a display device DS in FIG. The color filter member CFP may include color filters CCF1, CCF2, and CCF3, and at least one of the color filters CCF1, CCF2, and CCF3 may include a scattering agent SP.

[0144] Reference Figure 12 In an embodiment, each of the second color filter CCF2 and the third color filter CCF3 may include a scattering agent SP, and the first color filter CCF1 may not include the scattering agent SP. Although not shown in the drawings, in an embodiment, the third color filter CCF3 may include a scattering agent SP, and each of the first color filter CCF1 and the second color filter CCF2 may not include the scattering agent SP.

[0145] Color filters CCF1, CCF2, and CCF3 may include a matrix portion MR made of a polymer photosensitive resin. A scattering agent SP may be dispersed in the matrix portion MR. In addition to the polymer photosensitive resin, the matrix portion MR may also include a pigment or dye. In an embodiment, the matrix portion MR of each of the second color filter CCF2 and the third color filter CCF3 may include a pigment or dye, and the first color filter CCF1 may include a polymer photosensitive resin without including a pigment or dye. In an embodiment, the first color filter CCF1 may include a matrix portion MR containing a polymer photosensitive resin and a pigment or dye.

[0146] The scattering agent SP may include at least one of TiO2, ZnO, Al2O3, SiO2, hollow silica, and polystyrene particles. The scattering agent SP may include at least one of TiO2, ZnO, Al2O3, SiO2, hollow silica, and polystyrene particles, or may include a mixture of at least two selected from the group consisting of TiO2, ZnO, Al2O3, SiO2, hollow silica, and polystyrene particles (which are made of polystyrene resin). For example, the color filter member CFP according to an embodiment may include TiO2 as the scattering agent SP. The scattering agent SP may be spherical particles. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the scattering agent SP may have an ellipsoidal spherical shape or an amorphous shape.

[0147] According to embodiments, since the remaining portion of the electrode included in the organic electroluminescent element except for the necessary portion that can generate light is removed, the defect in which the electrode reflects light incident on the light-emitting area and is visible to the user can be minimized. Therefore, a display device with improved visibility can be provided.

[0148] Although the embodiments have been described, it should be understood that the present disclosure should not be limited to these embodiments, but various changes and modifications may be made by one skilled in the art within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as claimed in the appended claims.

[0149] Therefore, the scope of the disclosure should be determined from the following claims.

Claims

1. Display devices, including: base layer; a first electrode, disposed on the base layer; a pixel defining layer, disposed on the base layer, the pixel defining layer comprising a display opening exposing the first electrode; a light-emitting pattern, disposed on the first electrode; a second electrode disposed on the light-emitting pattern, wherein the second electrode includes an electrode opening that completely penetrates the second electrode; a separation pattern disposed on the second electrode, the separation pattern comprising a separation opening overlapping the display opening; as well as a color filter disposed in the partition opening, The electrode opening overlaps with the separation opening and is spaced apart from the display opening.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The second electrode comprises: a first portion, overlapping the luminous pattern; a second portion overlapping the partition pattern; and A third portion extends from the first portion to the second portion.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein An area of ​​the first portion is greater than an area of ​​the third portion.

4. The display device according to claim 2, wherein A plurality of the third portions are provided in a region overlapping the partition opening.

5. The display device according to claim 4, wherein A plurality of the electrode openings are provided in a region overlapping the partition opening.

6. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising at least one of the following: a hole transport region disposed between the first electrode and the light emitting pattern; and The electron transport region is arranged between the light-emitting pattern and the second electrode.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein The electrode opening of the second electrode exposes a portion of one of the hole transport region, the electron transport region, and the pixel defining layer in a region overlapping the separation opening.

8. The display device according to claim 1, wherein An area of ​​the partition opening is larger than an area of ​​the display opening.

9. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The pixel defining layer is a black pixel defining layer.

10. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: An encapsulation member is disposed between the pixel defining layer and the color filter and overlaps the second electrode.

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