Display device

Abstract

A display device includes a first substrate, a first electrode provided over the first substrate, a light-emitting layer provided over the first electrode, a second electrode provided over the light-emitting layer, a high-refractive-index member provided over the second electrode, overlapping with the light-emitting layer, and having a first refractive index, a low-refractive-index member provided between the high-refractive-index member and the light-emitting layer, and having a second refractive index smaller than the first refractive index, a cover member provided between the low-refractive-index member and the light-emitting layer, and a second substrate provided over the high-refractive-index member, and facing the first substrate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to display devices. More specifically, this invention relates to display devices with improved light extraction efficiency. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, a display device includes a light-emitting element that emits light and an upper structure disposed on the light-emitting element. For example, the upper structure may be a packaging substrate, a polarizing plate, a window, etc. The light-emitting element can emit light along various paths, and a user can identify the light transmitted through the upper structure in the vertical direction. Therefore, the greater the proportion of light transmitted through the upper structure in the vertical direction, the higher the light extraction efficiency of the display device can be. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide a display device with improved light extraction efficiency.

[0004] However, the purpose of this invention is not limited to the above-described purpose, and various extensions can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this invention.

[0005] To achieve the objectives of this invention, an embodiment of the display device may include: a first substrate; a first electrode disposed on the first substrate; a light-emitting layer disposed on the first electrode; a second electrode disposed on the light-emitting layer; a high-refractive-index component disposed on the second electrode, overlapping the light-emitting layer, and having a first refractive index; a low-refractive-index component disposed between the high-refractive-index component and the light-emitting layer, and having a second refractive index smaller than the first refractive index; a cover component disposed between the low-refractive-index component and the light-emitting layer; and a second substrate opposite to the first substrate and disposed on the high-refractive-index component.

[0006] According to one embodiment, the high refractive index component may have a refractive index between 1.5 and 1.6, and the second substrate may have a refractive index between 1.5 and 1.6.

[0007] According to one embodiment, the high refractive index component may include: a first surface in contact with the second substrate; a second surface opposite to the first surface and having a second length shorter than a first length of the first surface; and a side surface connecting the first surface and the second surface.

[0008] According to one embodiment, the low-refractive-index component may be in contact with the second surface and the side surface.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the low-refractive-index component may overlap with the light-emitting layer.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the light-emitting layer may overlap with the second surface and the side surface.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the length of the light-emitting layer may be shorter than the first length of the first surface and longer than the second length of the second surface.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the display device may further include: a plurality of auxiliary components disposed on the second electrode and not overlapping with the light-emitting layer.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the shape of each of the plurality of auxiliary components may be the same as that of the high refractive index component.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the plurality of auxiliary components may comprise the same material as the high refractive index component.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the size of each of the plurality of auxiliary components may be smaller than the size of the high refractive index component.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the high refractive index component may comprise an organic material.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the high refractive index component may comprise a siloxane-based resin.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the cover component may comprise an inorganic material.

[0019] To achieve the objectives of this invention, other embodiments of the display device may include: a first substrate; a first electrode disposed on the first substrate; a light-emitting layer disposed on the first electrode; a second electrode disposed on the light-emitting layer; a low-refractive-index component disposed on the second electrode, overlapping the light-emitting layer, and having a first refractive index; a high-refractive-index component disposed between the low-refractive-index component and the light-emitting layer, and having a second refractive index greater than the first refractive index; and a second substrate opposite to the first substrate and disposed on the low-refractive-index component, the low-refractive-index component including: a first surface in contact with the second substrate; a second surface opposite to the first surface and having a second length longer than a first length of the first surface; and a side surface connecting the first surface and the second surface.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the high refractive index component may be in contact with the second surface and the side surface.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the low-refractive-index component may overlap with the light-emitting layer.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the display device may further include a cover component disposed between the high refractive index component and the light-emitting layer.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the low-refractive-index component may have a refractive index between 1.5 and 1.6, and the second substrate may have a refractive index between 1.5 and 1.6.

[0024] To achieve the objectives of this invention, another embodiment of the display device may include: a first substrate; a first electrode disposed on the first substrate; a light-emitting layer disposed on the first electrode; a second electrode disposed on the light-emitting layer; a high-refractive-index component disposed on the second electrode, overlapping the light-emitting layer, and having a refractive index between 1.5 and 1.6; a low-refractive-index component disposed between the high-refractive-index component and the light-emitting layer, and having a refractive index between 1 and 1.4; and a second substrate opposite to the first substrate, disposed on the high-refractive-index component, and having a refractive index between 1.5 and 1.6, wherein the high-refractive-index component includes: a first surface in contact with the second substrate; a second surface opposite to the first surface and having a second length shorter than a first length of the first surface; and a side surface connecting the first surface and the second surface, the side surface having an angle between 60 degrees and 75 degrees relative to the first surface.

[0025] (Invention Effects)

[0026] The display devices according to various embodiments of the present invention include a refractive layer disposed on a light-emitting layer, thereby refracting light emitted from the light-emitting layer so that the light passes through the second substrate in a direction perpendicular to the second substrate. This improves the light extraction efficiency of the display device. Furthermore, the refractive layer includes a high-refractive-index component, a low-refractive-index component surrounding the high-refractive-index component, and a cover component, thereby preventing the release of organic matter included in the high-refractive-index component. This prevents damage to the light-emitting layer, thus improving the reliability of the display device.

[0027] However, the effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and various extensions can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Figure 1 This is a perspective view illustrating the display device according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 2 It means Figure 1 A plan view of the display device.

[0030] Figure 3 It means Figure 1A cross-sectional view of the display device.

[0031] Figure 4 It is used for explanation Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of an example of a refractive layer included in a display device.

[0032] Figure 5 It is used for explanation Figure 3 Cross-sectional view of other examples of the refractive layer included in the display device.

[0033] Figure 6 This is an explanation Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of another example of a refractive layer included in a display device.

[0034] Figures 7 to 11 It is used to describe the manufacturing process, including Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a method for displaying a refractive layer.

[0035] Figures 12 to 15 It is used to describe the manufacturing process, including Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a method for displaying a refractive layer.

[0036] Symbol explanation:

[0037] 10: Display device; 100: First substrate; DA: Display area; NDA: Non-display area; EA: Light-emitting area; NEA: Non-light-emitting area; 200: Driving element layer; PDL: Pixel definition film; 300a, 300b, 300c: First to third light-emitting elements; 500: Cover component; 600, 600-1, 600-2: Refractive layer; 610: Low refractive index component; 620: High refractive index component; 630a, 630b: First and second auxiliary components; 640a, 640b, 640c, 640d: First to fourth auxiliary components; 650: High refractive index component; 660: Low refractive index component. Detailed Implementation

[0038] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals are used for the same constituent elements in the drawings, and repeated descriptions of the same constituent elements are omitted.

[0039] Figure 1 This is a perspective view illustrating the display device according to various embodiments of the present invention. Figure 2 It means Figure 1 A plan view of the display device.

[0040] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The display device 10 involved in the various embodiments of the present invention may include a first substrate 100, a second substrate 700, a printed circuit board 120, a flexible film 130, and a data driving unit 140.

[0041] The first substrate 100 may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA. An image may be displayed in the display area DA, and the non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA on a plane.

[0042] Multiple light-emitting elements 300a, 300b, and 300c can be configured in the display area DA. The light-emitting elements 300a, 300b, and 300c can be arranged at predetermined distances. For example, the light-emitting elements 300a, 300b, and 300c may include a first light-emitting element 300a, a second light-emitting element 300b, and a third light-emitting element 300c. The first light-emitting element 300a to the third light-emitting element 300c can be arranged along a first direction D1. The first light-emitting element 300a can emit red light, the second light-emitting element 300b can emit green light, and the third light-emitting element 300c can emit blue light.

[0043] Additionally, the display area DA may also be configured with a plurality of gate wirings and a plurality of data wirings for driving the light-emitting elements 300a, 300b, and 300c. For example, the plurality of gate wirings may extend along the first direction D1, and the plurality of data wirings may extend along a second direction D2 orthogonal to the first direction D1. The light-emitting elements 300a, 300b, and 300c may be formed in the region where the plurality of gate wirings and the plurality of data wirings intersect.

[0044] The gate drive section and pads can be configured in the non-display area NDA.

[0045] The gate driving section can provide gate signals through the plurality of gate wirings. For example, the gate driving section may include a plurality of transistors and may be mounted on one or both sides of the non-display area NDA.

[0046] The data driving unit 140 can provide data voltage through the data wiring. For example, the data driving unit 140 can be formed by a driver chip and can be mounted on the flexible film 130 in a COF (chip on film) manner.

[0047] Multiple circuits formed by driver chips can be mounted on the printed circuit board 120. For example, a timing control unit can be mounted on the printed circuit board 120. The timing control unit can control the gate driving unit and the data driving unit 140.

[0048] The printed circuit board 120 can be attached to the flexible film 130 and can be electrically connected to the first substrate 100 through the flexible film 130. For example, the printed circuit board 120 can be a printed circuit board (PCB) or a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB).

[0049] The flexible film 130 can electrically connect the pads and the printed circuit board 120. For example, the flexible film 130 can be attached to the pads and the printed circuit board using an anisotropic conducting film. Multiple wirings can be configured on the flexible film 130, through which the printed circuit board 120 can be electrically connected to the pads.

[0050] Additionally, a sealing member SL can be configured in the non-display area NDA. The sealing member SL can be configured to surround the display area DA on a plane, and the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 700 can be joined through the sealing member SL. Furthermore, the sealing member SL can prevent foreign matter or moisture from penetrating into the interior of the display device 10.

[0051] The second substrate 700 may be opposite to the first substrate 100. For example, the second substrate 700 may be an encapsulation substrate. For example, the first substrate 100 may be a glass substrate, a plastic substrate, etc., and the second substrate 700 may be a glass substrate, a plastic substrate, an encapsulation film, etc.

[0052] The second substrate 700 may comprise the same material as the first substrate 100. For example, both the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 700 may be glass substrates. Additionally, the second substrate 700 may have a rectangular shape that is substantially the same as the shape of the first substrate 100. Furthermore, the second substrate 700 may have an area smaller than that of the first substrate 100, thereby allowing a portion of the first substrate 100 to be left uncovered by the second substrate 700. However, the constituent materials, shapes, and areas of the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 700 are not limited thereto.

[0053] Figure 3 It means Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the display device, that is, along... Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line I-I'. Figure 4 It is used for explanation Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of an example of a refractive layer included in a display device. For example, Figure 4It could be enlarged. Figure 3 An enlarged view of region A.

[0054] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The display device 10 may include a first substrate 100, a driving element layer 200, a light-emitting element layer, a filling layer 400, a sealing member SL, a cover member 500, a refractive layer 600, a second substrate 700, a functional layer 800, and a window portion 900. The light-emitting element layer may include light-emitting elements 300a, 300b, 300c, and a pixel definition film (PDL). The refractive layer 600 may include a low-refractive-index member 610, a high-refractive-index member 620, a first auxiliary member 630a, and a second auxiliary member 630b.

[0055] A buffer layer 110 may be disposed on the first substrate 100. The buffer layer 110 can prevent metal atoms or impurities from diffusing from the first substrate 100 to the driving element layer 200. In addition, the buffer layer 110 can regulate the heat transfer rate during the crystallization process for forming the driving element layer 200, thereby uniformly forming the driving element layer 200.

[0056] The driving element layer 200 can receive the gate signal and the data voltage to drive the light-emitting element layer. For example, the driving element layer 200 may include a thin-film transistor (TFT) and multiple insulating layers. The TFT may include an active pattern ACT, a gate electrode GE, a source electrode SE, and a drain electrode DE. The multiple insulating layers may include a gate insulating layer GI, an interlayer insulating layer ILD, and a via insulating layer VIA.

[0057] The active pattern ACT can be disposed on the buffer layer 110. For example, the active pattern ACT can include silicon semiconductor or oxide semiconductor. For example, the silicon semiconductor can include amorphous silicon, polycrystalline silicon, etc. The active pattern ACT can include a source region, a drain region, and a channel region located between the source region and the drain region. Ions can be implanted into the source region and the drain region.

[0058] The gate insulating layer GI may cover the active pattern ACT and be disposed on the buffer layer 110. The gate insulating layer GI may include an insulating material. In one embodiment, the gate insulating layer GI may have a substantially flat upper surface. In other embodiments, the gate insulating layer GI may have the same thickness and be disposed along the contour of the active pattern ACT. For example, the gate insulating layer GI may include silicon oxide, silicon nitride, titanium oxide, tantalum oxide, etc.

[0059] The gate electrode GE can be disposed on the gate insulating layer GI. The gate electrode GE can overlap with the channel region of the active pattern ACT. The gate signal can be provided to the gate electrode GE, and the thin-film transistor TFT can be turned on or off in response to the gate signal.

[0060] The interlayer insulating layer (ILD) may cover the gate electrode GE and be disposed on the gate insulating layer GI. The ILD may include an insulating material. In one embodiment, the ILD may have a substantially flat upper surface. In other embodiments, the ILD may have the same thickness and be disposed along the contour of the gate electrode GE.

[0061] The source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE can be disposed on the interlayer insulating layer ILD. The source electrode SE can contact the source region of the active pattern ACT, and the drain electrode DE can contact the drain region of the active pattern ACT. For example, the voltage for driving the light-emitting elements 300a, 300b, and 300c can be provided to the source electrode SE and then transmitted to the drain electrode DE through the active pattern ACT.

[0062] The via insulating layer VIA may cover the source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE and be disposed on the interlayer insulating layer ILD. The via insulating layer VIA may include an insulating material. In one embodiment, the via insulating layer VIA may have a substantially flat upper surface. For example, the via insulating layer VIA may include a photoresist, a polyacrylamide resin, a polyimide resin, an acrylic resin, etc. In other embodiments, the via insulating layer VIA may have the same thickness and be disposed along the contours of the source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE.

[0063] The light-emitting elements 300a, 300b, and 300c may each include a first electrode, a light-emitting layer, and a second electrode. For example, the first light-emitting element 300a may include a first electrode 310a, a first light-emitting layer 320a, and a second electrode 330. The second light-emitting element 300b may include a first electrode, a second light-emitting layer, and a second electrode 330. The third light-emitting element 300c may include a first electrode, a third light-emitting layer, and a second electrode 330. The first electrodes of the first light-emitting elements 300a to 300c may be spaced apart from each other.

[0064] The first electrode 310a may be disposed on the through-hole insulating layer VIA. The first electrode 310a can contact the drain electrode DE by removing a portion of the through-hole insulating layer VIA to form a contact hole. The first electrode 310a may include metals, alloys, conductive metal oxides, etc. For example, the first electrode 310a may include gold (Au), silver (Ag), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), aluminum (Al), tungsten (W), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tantalum (Ta), indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), and alloys thereof. In one embodiment, the first electrode 310a may include a reflective electrode. For example, the first electrode 310a may include silver (Ag), silver-containing alloys, aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), platinum (Pt), etc.

[0065] The pixel definition film (PDL) can be disposed on the through-hole insulating layer (VIA). For example, the PDL may include an opening that exposes a portion of the upper surface of the first electrode 310a. Any one of a plurality of light-emitting layers can be disposed within this opening. Thus, the PDL defines the area where the light-emitting layers are disposed. Additionally, the PDL can also function as a light-shielding component. For this purpose, the PDL may include black pigment or black dye.

[0066] As described above, any one of the first to the third light-emitting layers can be disposed within the opening. For example, the first light-emitting layer 320a can be disposed within the first opening, the second light-emitting layer can be disposed within a second opening spaced apart from the first opening, and the third light-emitting layer can be disposed within a third opening spaced apart from both the first and second openings.

[0067] In one embodiment, the display area DA may include a light-emitting area EA and a non-light-emitting area NEA. The light-emitting area EA may be the area where the light-emitting layer is disposed. For example, the light-emitting area EA may be the area where the first light-emitting layer 320a is disposed. Alternatively, the light-emitting area EA may be the area where the upper surface of the first electrode 310a is exposed through the opening. The non-light-emitting area NEA may be the area where the light-emitting layer is not disposed. Alternatively, the non-light-emitting area NEA may be the area where the pixel definition film PDL remains.

[0068] The second electrode 330 can be disposed on the light-emitting layer and the pixel definition film (PDL). The second electrode 330 can include metals, alloys, conductive metal oxides, etc. For example, the second electrode 330 can include gold (Au), silver (Ag), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), aluminum (Al), tungsten (W), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tantalum (Ta), indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), and alloys thereof. In one embodiment, the second electrode 330 can include a transparent electrode. For example, the second electrode 330 can include nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), titanium (Ti), indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), etc.

[0069] The filling layer 400 can be disposed on the second electrode 330. The filling layer 400 can be filled with a filler material. For example, the filler material can be air, organic polymers, resin, etc. The filling layer 400 can improve the high-temperature stability and shock absorption of the display device 10.

[0070] The sealing member SL can be disposed in the non-display area NDA. For example, one side of the sealing member SL is attached to the first substrate 100, and the other side of the sealing member SL can be attached to the second substrate 700. The sealing member SL can prevent leakage of the filling material filled into the filling layer 400. In addition, the sealing member SL can prevent foreign objects or moisture from penetrating into the interior of the display device 10 from the outside.

[0071] The cover member 500 can be configured to surround the refractive layer 600. In one embodiment, the cover member 500 can be formed on the side and lower surfaces of the refractive layer 600 after the refractive layer 600 is formed on the lower portion of the second substrate 700. In one embodiment, the cover member 500 may include silicon nitride (SiN). x ), silicon oxide (SiO) x Inorganic substances such as Alq3. Alternatively, the cover component 500 may include organometallic complexes such as Alq3.

[0072] The cover member 500 prevents leakage from the low-refractive-index component 610 of the refractive layer 600. Additionally, the cover member 500 can guide enhanced light interference to increase the light extraction efficiency of the display device 10. Furthermore, the cover member 500 prevents the outgassing of organic materials included in the high-refractive-index component 620, the first auxiliary component 630a, and the second auxiliary component 630b. These will be explained in detail later.

[0073] The low-refractive-index component 610 can be disposed on the cover component 500 and supported by the cover component 500. Additionally, the low-refractive-index component 610 can be configured to surround the high-refractive-index component 620, the first auxiliary component 630a, and the second auxiliary component 630b. In one embodiment, the low-refractive-index component 610 can be integrally disposed within the space defined by the cover component 500. For example, the low-refractive-index component 610 can overlap with the first light-emitting layer 320a. In other embodiments, the low-refractive-index component 610 can be selectively disposed within the space defined by the cover component 500. For example, the low-refractive-index component 610 can overlap with the pixel definition film (PDL) but not with the first light-emitting layer 320a.

[0074] The low-refractive-index component 610 may include a low-refractive-index material. In one embodiment, the low-refractive-index component 610 may include air. In other embodiments, the low-refractive-index component 610 may include organic or inorganic materials. In this case, the low-refractive-index component 610 may prevent the release of gas from the organic materials included in the high-refractive-index component 620, the first auxiliary component 630a, and the second auxiliary component 630b.

[0075] The high-refractive-index component 620 may be disposed on and covered by the low-refractive-index component 610. Additionally, the high-refractive-index component 620 may contact the lower surface of the second substrate 700. The high-refractive-index component 620 may overlap with each of the light-emitting layers. For example, the high-refractive-index component 620 may overlap with the first light-emitting layer 320a.

[0076] In one embodiment, the high-refractive-index component 620 may include: a first surface 621 in contact with the second substrate 700; a second surface 622 opposite to the first surface 621 and having a second length 622l shorter than the first length 621l of the first surface 621; and a side surface 623 connecting the first surface 621 and the second surface 622. Therefore, the high-refractive-index component 620 may have an inverse trapezoidal shape in cross-section. In this case, the low-refractive-index component 610 may contact the second surface 622 and the side surface 623 to surround the high-refractive-index component 620.

[0077] In one embodiment, the first light-emitting layer 320a may overlap with the second surface 622 and the side surface 623 of the high refractive index component 620. For example, the length of the first light-emitting layer 320a may be shorter than the first length 621l of the first surface 621 and longer than the second length 622l of the second surface 622. Therefore, the high refractive index component 620 can refract light emitted from the edge of the first light-emitting layer 320a, thereby further improving the light extraction efficiency of the display device 10.

[0078] In one embodiment, the high refractive index component 620 may include an organic material. Additionally, the high refractive index component 620 may include a curable material. For example, the high refractive index component 620 may include siloxane-based resins, polyimide-based resins, photoresist, acrylic-based resins, methacrylamide-based resins, acrylate-based resins, methacrylate-based resins, vinyl-based resins, epoxy-based resins, urethane-based resins, polyamide-based resins, etc.

[0079] The first auxiliary component 630a and the second auxiliary component 630b can be configured to surround the high refractive index component 620 in a plane. In one embodiment, the shapes of the first auxiliary component 630a and the second auxiliary component 630b can be the same as the shape of the high refractive index component 620.

[0080] For example, the first auxiliary component 630a may have an inverted trapezoidal shape and may be configured at a predetermined distance from the high refractive index component 620. The second auxiliary component 630b may have an inverted trapezoidal shape and may be configured at a predetermined distance from both the high refractive index component 620 and the first auxiliary component 630a.

[0081] In one embodiment, the first auxiliary component 630a and the second auxiliary component 630b may be formed together with the high refractive index component 620. Therefore, the first auxiliary component 630a and the second auxiliary component 630b may include the same material as the high refractive index component 620. The display device 10 can further improve its light extraction efficiency by including the first auxiliary component 630a and the second auxiliary component 630b, which can refract light emitted from the first light-emitting layer 320a.

[0082] When the high-refractive-index component 620, the first auxiliary component 630a, and the second auxiliary component 630b contain organic materials, gas release may occur. For example, when carbon contained inside the high-refractive-index component 620 is exposed to oxygen or the like present outside the high-refractive-index component 620, the carbon and oxygen may combine and detach from the high-refractive-index component 620 in the form of a gas (e.g., CO2). If the gas formed due to this gas release reaches the light-emitting elements 300a, 300b, and 300c, the light-emitting elements 300a, 300b, and 300c may be damaged.

[0083] However, by configuring the low-refractive-index component 610 and the cover component 500 to surround the high-refractive-index component 620, the gas generated by the gas release cannot reach the light-emitting elements 300a, 300b, and 300c. Thus, the display device 10 can prevent damage to the light-emitting elements 300a, 300b, and 300c caused by the gas release.

[0084] The second substrate 700 may be disposed on the refractive layer 600. For example, the second substrate 700 may be bonded to the first substrate 100 after the refractive layer 600 is formed on the lower surface of the second substrate 700.

[0085] The functional layer 800 can be disposed on the second substrate 700. For example, the functional layer 800 may include a polarization layer, a sensing panel, a planarization layer, etc. The polarization layer can polarize light and block external light to improve the recognizability of the display device 10. The sensing panel can sense the user's touch and / or proximity, and can enable the display device 10 to display an image corresponding to the user's operation. The planarization layer may have a substantially flat upper surface, which can compensate for the overall height of the display device 10.

[0086] The window 900 may be disposed on the functional layer 800. The window 900 may include glass or plastic and may protect the display device 10 from external impacts.

[0087] In one embodiment, the high-refractive-index component 620 may have a first refractive index, and the low-refractive-index component 610 may have a second refractive index smaller than the first refractive index. For example, the high-refractive-index component 620 may have a refractive index between 1.5 and 1.6, and the low-refractive-index component 610 may have a refractive index between 1 and 1.4. The second substrate 700 may have a refractive index between 1.5 and 1.6. In one embodiment, the refractive index of the second substrate 700 may be the same as the first refractive index of the high-refractive-index component 620.

[0088] Therefore, the light L emitted from the first light-emitting layer 320a can be emitted to the outside along the cover member 500, the low-refractive-index member 610, and the high-refractive-index member 620. In this case, the light L can be refracted by the cover member 500, the low-refractive-index member 610, and the high-refractive-index member 620, and can pass through the second substrate 700 in the perpendicular direction (e.g., the third direction D3). Therefore, the light extraction efficiency of the display device 10 can be improved.

[0089] In one embodiment, the first surface 621 may have a first length 621l between 7 μm and 11 μm, and the second surface 622 may have a second length 622l between 6 μm and 8 μm. Additionally, the side surface 623 may have a thickness 623l between 2 μm and 3 μm, and the side surface 623 may have an angle θ between 60 degrees and 75 degrees relative to the first surface 621.

[0090] Figure 5 It is used for explanation Figure 3 Cross-sectional views of other examples of refractive layers included in a display device. For example, Figure 5 It could be enlarged. Figure 3 An enlarged view of region A.

[0091] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 5 The display device 10 may include a first substrate 100, a driving element layer 200, a light-emitting element layer, a filling layer 400, a sealing member SL, a cover member 500, a refractive layer 600-1, a second substrate 700, a functional layer 800, and a window portion 900. However, the first substrate 100, the driving element layer 200, the light-emitting element layer, the filling layer 400, the sealing member SL, the cover member 500, the second substrate 700, the functional layer 800, and the window portion 900 are different from those in the reference section. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The first substrate 100, the driving element layer 200, the light-emitting element layer, the filling layer 400, the sealing member SL, the cover member 500, the second substrate 700, the functional layer 800, and the window 900 described herein are substantially the same, therefore the refractive layer 600-1 will be described below.

[0092] The refractive layer 600-1 may include the low refractive index component 610, the high refractive index component 620, the first auxiliary component 640a, the second auxiliary component 640b, the third auxiliary component 640c, and the fourth auxiliary component 640d.

[0093] The first auxiliary component 640a to the fourth auxiliary component 640d can be configured to surround the high refractive index component 620 in a plane. In one embodiment, the shapes of the first auxiliary component 640a to the fourth auxiliary component 640d can be the same as the shape of the high refractive index component 620.

[0094] For example, the first auxiliary component 640a may have an inverted trapezoidal shape and may be configured at a predetermined distance from the high refractive index component 620. The second auxiliary component 640b may have an inverted trapezoidal shape and may be configured between the high refractive index component 620 and the first auxiliary component 640a. The third auxiliary component 640c may have an inverted trapezoidal shape and may be configured between the high refractive index component 620 and the fourth auxiliary component 640d. The fourth auxiliary component 640d may have an inverted trapezoidal shape and may be configured at a predetermined distance from the high refractive index component 620.

[0095] In one embodiment, the first auxiliary component 640a to the fourth auxiliary component 640d may be formed together with the high refractive index component 620. Therefore, the first auxiliary component 640a to the fourth auxiliary component 640d may comprise the same material as the high refractive index component 620.

[0096] In one embodiment, the size of each of the first auxiliary component 640a to the fourth auxiliary component 640d may be smaller than the size of the high refractive index component 620.

[0097] The display device 10 can further improve its light emission efficiency by including the first auxiliary component 640a to the fourth auxiliary component 640d, which are capable of refracting light emitted from the first light-emitting layer 320a.

[0098] Figure 6 It is used for explanation Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of another example of a refractive layer included in a display device. For example, Figure 6 It could be enlarged. Figure 3 An enlarged view of region A.

[0099] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 6The display device 10 may include a first substrate 100, a driving element layer 200, a light-emitting element layer, a filling layer 400, a sealing member SL, a cover member 500, a refractive layer 600-2, a second substrate 700, a functional layer 800, and a window portion 900. However, because the first substrate 100, the driving element layer 200, the light-emitting element layer, the filling layer 400, the sealing member SL, the cover member 500, the second substrate 700, the functional layer 800, and the window portion 900 are different from those in the reference... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The first substrate 100, the driving element layer 200, the light-emitting element layer, the filling layer 400, the sealing member SL, the cover member 500, the second substrate 700, the functional layer 800, and the window 900 described herein are substantially the same, therefore the refractive layer 600-2 will be described below.

[0100] The refractive layer 600-2 may include a high refractive index component 650 and a low refractive index component 660.

[0101] The high refractive index component 650 may be disposed on and supported by the cover component 500. Alternatively, the high refractive index component 650 may be configured to surround the low refractive index component 660. In one embodiment, the high refractive index component 650 may be integrally disposed within the space defined by the cover component 500. For example, the high refractive index component 650 may overlap with the light-emitting elements 300a, 300b, 300c and the pixel definition film (PDL). In other embodiments, the high refractive index component 650 may be selectively disposed within the space defined by the cover component 500. For example, the high refractive index component 650 may overlap with the pixel definition film (PDL) but not with the light-emitting elements 300a, 300b, 300c.

[0102] The low-refractive-index component 660 may be disposed on and covered by the high-refractive-index component 650. Additionally, the low-refractive-index component 660 may contact the lower surface of the second substrate 700. The low-refractive-index component 660 may overlap with the light-emitting elements 300a, 300b, and 300c, respectively.

[0103] In one embodiment, the low-refractive-index component 660 may include: a first surface 661 in contact with the second substrate 700; a second surface 662 opposite to the first surface 661 and having a second length longer than a first length of the first surface 661; and a side surface 663 connecting the first surface 661 and the second surface 662. Therefore, the low-refractive-index component 660 may have a trapezoidal shape in cross-section. In this case, the high-refractive-index component 650 may contact the second surface 662 and the side surface 663 to surround the low-refractive-index component 660.

[0104] In one embodiment, the high refractive index component 650 may include a high refractive index material. For example, the high refractive index component 650 may include polyvinyl chloride, polychloro styrene, polydichloro styrene, polyphenylmethyl silane, polysulfone resin, polystyrene sulfide, phenol formaldehyde resin, etc.

[0105] In one embodiment, the low refractive index component 660 may include an organic material. Additionally, the low refractive index component 660 may include a curable material. For example, the low refractive index component 660 may include siloxane-based resins, polyimide-based resins, photoresists, acrylic-based resins, methacrylic-based resins, acrylate-based resins, methacrylate-based resins, vinyl-based resins, epoxy-based resins, urethane-based resins, polyamide-based resins, etc. In one embodiment, the low refractive index component 660 may include materials similar to those described above. Figure 4 The high refractive index component 620 described herein is made of essentially the same material.

[0106] In one embodiment, the low-refractive-index component 660 may have a first refractive index, and the high-refractive-index component 650 may have a second refractive index greater than the first refractive index. For example, the low-refractive-index component 660 may have a refractive index between 1.5 and 1.6, and the high-refractive-index component 650 may have a refractive index between 1.6 and 1.7. The second substrate 700 may have a refractive index between 1.5 and 1.6. In one embodiment, the refractive index of the second substrate 700 may be the same as the first refractive index of the low-refractive-index component 660.

[0107] Therefore, the light L emitted from the first light-emitting layer 320a can be emitted to the outside along the cover member 500, the high refractive index member 650, and the low refractive index member 660. In this case, the light L can be refracted by the cover member 500, the high refractive index member 650, and the low refractive index member 660, and can pass through the second substrate 700 in the direction perpendicular to the second substrate 700 (e.g., the third direction D3). Therefore, the light extraction efficiency of the display device 10 can be improved.

[0108] Figures 7 to 11 It is used to describe the manufacturing process, including Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a method for displaying a refractive layer.

[0109] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 7 A high-refractive-index layer 620' can be formed on the second substrate 700. The high-refractive-index layer 620' may include organic materials. Additionally, the high-refractive-index layer 620' may include curable materials. For example, the high-refractive-index layer 620' may include siloxane-based resins, polyimide-based resins, photoresists, acrylic-based resins, methacrylic-based resins, acrylate-based resins, methacrylate-based resins, vinyl-based resins, epoxy-based resins, urethane-based resins, polyamide-based resins, etc.

[0110] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 8The high-refractive-index layer 620' can be patterned to form the high-refractive-index component 620, the first auxiliary component 630a, and the second auxiliary component 630b. For example, a mask M can be disposed on the upper part of the high-refractive-index layer 620', the mask M including a transmittance region Ma and a non-transmittance region Mb. The transmittance region Ma allows ultraviolet light to pass through, and the non-transmittance region Mb prevents ultraviolet light from passing through. When the high-refractive-index layer 620' includes a positive photoresist, the mask M can be configured such that the transmittance region Ma overlaps with the removal region of the high-refractive-index layer 620'. Thus, the high-refractive-index layer 620' exposed to ultraviolet light can be removed. Conversely, the high-refractive-index layer 620' not exposed to ultraviolet light will remain, thereby forming the high-refractive-index component 620, the first auxiliary component 630a, and the second auxiliary component 630b.

[0111] Additionally, the high-refractive-index component 620, the first auxiliary component 630a, and the second auxiliary component 630b can be exposed to high temperatures. This allows the high-refractive-index component 620, the first auxiliary component 630a, and the second auxiliary component 630b to be cured. Furthermore, a plasma treatment process can be performed on the high-refractive-index component 620, the first auxiliary component 630a, and the second auxiliary component 630b. This plasma treatment process can be performed using inert gases such as argon (Ar), helium (He), nitrogen (N2), oxygen (O2), and carbon tetrafluoride (CF4), and can prevent the release of organic matter contained in the high-refractive-index component 620, the first auxiliary component 630a, and the second auxiliary component 630b.

[0112] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 9 A low-refractive-index component 610 can be formed on the high-refractive-index component 620, the first auxiliary component 630a, and the second auxiliary component 630b. Then, a cover component 500 can be formed on the low-refractive-index component 610. The cover component 500 can be formed to surround the low-refractive-index component 610.

[0113] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 10The second substrate 700, to which the refractive layer 600 and the cover member 500 have been formed, can be bonded to the first substrate 100. For example, the aforementioned thin-film transistor (TFT), insulating layers, and light-emitting element layers can be formed on the first substrate 100. As the second substrate 700 and the first substrate 100 are bonded to each other, the filler layer 400 can be defined.

[0114] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 11 The aforementioned functional layer 800 and window 900 can be formed on the upper part of the second substrate 700. The functional layer 800 may include a polarization layer, a sensing panel, a planarization layer, etc., and the window 900 may be formed of glass to protect the display device 10 from external impacts.

[0115] Figures 12 to 15 It is used to describe the manufacturing process, including Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a method for displaying a refractive layer.

[0116] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 6 and Figure 12 A low-refractive-index layer 660' can be formed on the second substrate 700. In one embodiment, the low-refractive-index layer 660' may include elements related to the aforementioned... Figure 4 The high-refractive-index component 620 described herein is made of substantially the same material. For example, the low-refractive-index layer 660' may include siloxane-based resins, polyimide-based resins, photoresist, acrylic-based resins, methacryl-based resins, acrylate-based resins, methacrylate-based resins, vinyl-based resins, epoxy-based resins, urethane-based resins, polyamide-based resins, etc.

[0117] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 6 and Figure 13The low-refractive-index layer 660' can be patterned to form a low-refractive-index component 660. For example, a mask M can be disposed on the upper part of the low-refractive-index layer 660', the mask M including a transmittance region Ma and a non-transmittance region Mb. The transmittance region Ma allows ultraviolet light to pass through, and the non-transmittance region Mb prevents ultraviolet light from passing through. When the low-refractive-index layer 660' includes a negative photoresist material, the mask M can be configured such that the non-transmittance region Mb overlaps with the removal region of the low-refractive-index layer 660'. Thus, the low-refractive-index layer 660' not exposed to ultraviolet light can be removed. Conversely, the low-refractive-index layer 660' exposed to ultraviolet light will remain, thereby forming the low-refractive-index component 660.

[0118] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 6 and Figure 14 A high refractive index component 650 can be formed on the low refractive index component 660. In one embodiment, the high refractive index component 650 may include an organic material with a high refractive index. For example, the high refractive index component 650 may include polyvinyl chloride, polychlorostyrene, polydichlorostyrene, polyphenylmethyl silane, polysulfone resin, polystyrene sulfide, phenol formaldehyde resin, etc. Then, a cover component 500 can be formed on the high refractive index component 650. The cover component 500 may be formed to surround the high refractive index component 650.

[0119] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 6 and Figure 15 The second substrate 700, on which the refractive layer 600 and the cover member 500 are formed, can be bonded to the first substrate 100. For example, the thin-film transistor (TFT), insulating layers, and light-emitting element layers described above can be formed on the first substrate 100. As the second substrate 700 and the first substrate 100 are bonded to each other, the filler layer 400 can be defined.

[0120] Then, the aforementioned functional layer 800 and window 900 can be formed on the upper part of the second substrate 700. The functional layer 800 may include a polarization layer, a sensing panel, a planarization layer, etc., and the window 900 may be formed of glass to protect the display device 10 from external impacts.

[0121] The display device 10 according to various embodiments of the present invention includes a refractive layer 600, 600-1, or 600-2 disposed on the light-emitting element layer, thereby refracting the light L emitted from the light-emitting elements 300a, 300b, and 300c, so that the light L passes through the second substrate 700 in the direction perpendicular to the second substrate 700 (e.g., the third direction D3). This improves the light extraction efficiency of the display device 10. Furthermore, the display device 10 includes a low-refractive-index component 610 surrounding the high-refractive-index component 620 and a cover component 500, thereby preventing the release of gas from the organic material included in the high-refractive-index component 620. This prevents damage to the light-emitting elements 300a, 300b, and 300c, thereby improving the reliability of the display device 10.

[0122] (Industry availability)

[0123] This invention is applicable to display devices and electronic devices including them. For example, it is applicable to high-resolution smartphones, portable phones, smart tablets, smartwatches, tablet PCs, vehicle navigation systems, televisions, computer displays, laptops, etc.

[0124] The present invention has been described above with reference to various exemplary embodiments. However, those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications and changes can be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: First substrate; The first electrode is disposed on the first substrate; A light-emitting layer is disposed on the first electrode; The second electrode is disposed on the light-emitting layer; A high refractive index component is disposed on the second electrode, overlaps with the light-emitting layer, and has a first refractive index; A low-refractive-index component is disposed between the high-refractive-index component and the light-emitting layer, and has a second refractive index that is smaller than the first refractive index; A cover component is disposed between the low-refractive-index component and the light-emitting layer; as well as A second substrate is positioned opposite the first substrate and disposed on the high-refractive-index component. The low-refractive-index component and the second substrate surround the high-refractive-index component.

2. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The high-refractive-index component has a refractive index between 1.5 and 1.

6. The second substrate has a refractive index between 1.5 and 1.

6.

3. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The high-refractive-index component includes a first surface, a second surface, and a side surface. The first surface is in contact with the second substrate, the second surface is opposite to the first surface and has a second length shorter than the first length of the first surface, and the side surface connects the first surface and the second surface.

4. The display device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The low-refractive-index component is in contact with the second surface and the side surface.

5. The display device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The low-refractive-index component overlaps with the light-emitting layer.

6. The display device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The light-emitting layer overlaps with the second surface and the side surface.

7. The display device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The length of the light-emitting layer is shorter than the first length of the first surface and longer than the second length of the second surface.

8. The display device according to claim 3, characterized in that, Also includes: Multiple auxiliary components are disposed on the second electrode and do not overlap with the light-emitting layer.

9. The display device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The shape of each of the plurality of auxiliary components is the same as that of the high refractive index component.

10. The display device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The plurality of auxiliary components are formed together with the high refractive index component and comprise the same material as the high refractive index component.

11. The display device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The size of each of the plurality of auxiliary components is smaller than the size of the high refractive index component.

12. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The high-refractive-index component includes organic materials.

13. The display device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The high refractive index component comprises a siloxane-based resin.

14. The display device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The cover component comprises inorganic materials.

15. A display device, characterized in that, include: First substrate; The first electrode is disposed on the first substrate; A light-emitting layer is disposed on the first electrode; The second electrode is disposed on the light-emitting layer; A high refractive index component is disposed on the second electrode, overlaps with the light-emitting layer, and has a refractive index between 1.5 and 1.6; A low-refractive-index component is disposed between the high-refractive-index component and the light-emitting layer, and has a refractive index between 1 and 1.4; as well as A second substrate, opposite to the first substrate, is disposed on the high-refractive-index component and has a refractive index between 1.5 and 1.

6. The high-refractive-index component includes: a first surface in contact with the second substrate; a second surface opposite to the first surface and having a second length shorter than a first length of the first surface; and a side surface connecting the first surface and the second surface. The side has an angle between 60 and 75 degrees relative to the first surface. The low-refractive-index component and the second substrate surround the high-refractive-index component.

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