Display panel

Abstract

A display panel is provided. The display panel includes an upper display substrate and a lower display substrate, the upper display substrate includes a first pixel region, a second pixel region, a third pixel region, and a light-shielding region surrounding the first pixel region, the second pixel region, and the third pixel region, the lower display substrate includes a light-emitting element. The upper display substrate includes a base substrate, a first bank overlapping the light-shielding region and arranged on the base substrate, a second bank overlapping the light-shielding region and arranged on the base substrate, a bridge bank arranged on the base substrate between the first bank and the second bank, and an organic material pattern having at least a portion thereof arranged on the bridge bank. The display panel has improved reliability.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0063350, filed on May 27, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to a display panel and a method of manufacturing a display panel. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a display panel including a ridge and a method of manufacturing the display panel. Background Technology

[0004] The display device presents an image to the user. The image of the display device is provided using source light generated by the display panel. The display panel includes a first display substrate that generates the source light and a second display substrate that controls the color of the source light.

[0005] The display device includes columnar spacers to maintain a gap between a first display substrate and a second display substrate. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This disclosure provides a display panel with improved reliability.

[0007] This disclosure provides a method for manufacturing a display panel with improved reliability.

[0008] An embodiment of the present invention provides a display panel including an upper display substrate and a lower display substrate. The upper display substrate includes a first pixel region, a second pixel region, a third pixel region, and a light-shielding region surrounding the first pixel region, the second pixel region, and the third pixel region. The lower display substrate includes a light-emitting element. The upper display substrate includes a base substrate, a first dam overlapping the light-shielding region and disposed on the base substrate, a second dam overlapping the light-shielding region and disposed on the base substrate, a bridging dam disposed on the base substrate between the first dam and the second dam, and an organic material pattern. At least a portion of the organic material pattern is disposed on the bridging dam.

[0009] Organic material patterns are arranged between the first and second dikes and cover the bridging dike.

[0010] In the plan view, at least a portion of the organic material pattern arranged on the bridging embankment overlaps with the bridging embankment.

[0011] The display panel also includes a light control unit, which overlaps with the first pixel area and is arranged adjacent to the first embankment in a plan view, and the light control unit includes at least one of scattering particles and quantum dots.

[0012] The organic material pattern overlaps with the first dike, the bridging dike, and the second dike, but does not overlap with the light control section.

[0013] The light control unit transmits source light generated by the light-emitting element or converts the wavelength of the source light.

[0014] The portion of the organic material pattern that overlaps with the bridging embankment is arranged closest to the lower display substrate.

[0015] The display panel also includes a cover layer disposed between the bridging embankment and the organic material pattern.

[0016] Organic material patterns include at least one of light-blocking materials and resins.

[0017] The display substrate further includes a color filter layer disposed between the base substrate and the first dam, and the color filter layer includes a first color filter overlapping the first pixel region, a second color filter overlapping the second pixel region and transmitting light having a wavelength different from the wavelength of light transmitted through the first color filter, and a third color filter overlapping the third pixel region and transmitting light having a wavelength different from each of the wavelengths of light transmitted through the first color filter and the wavelength of light transmitted through the second color filter.

[0018] The display panel also includes a third dam disposed on the base substrate, a fourth dam disposed on the base substrate, and a non-bridging dam disposed between the third dam and the fourth dam, wherein the non-bridging dam does not overlap with the organic material pattern.

[0019] The display panel also includes a third dam and a fourth dam disposed on the base substrate, an organic material pattern disposed between the third dam and the fourth dam, and the organic material pattern having a height lower than that of each of the third dam and the fourth dam.

[0020] The upper display substrate includes a display area that overlaps with the first pixel area, the second pixel area, the third pixel area, and the light-shielding area, as well as a non-display area surrounding the display area. An organic material pattern overlaps with the display area.

[0021] The light-emitting element emits blue light.

[0022] The first pixel area, the second pixel area, and the third pixel area provide red light, green light, and blue light, respectively.

[0023] Embodiments of the present invention provide a method for manufacturing a display panel, the method comprising: preparing an upper display substrate; and preparing a lower display substrate, wherein preparing the upper display substrate comprises: preparing a base substrate; forming a color filter layer on the base substrate; forming a plurality of dams on the color filter layer; forming light control portions in regions corresponding to pixel regions disposed between adjacent dams; providing an organic composition on dams disposed in non-pixel regions; and curing the organic composition to form an organic material pattern.

[0024] The method further includes forming a covering layer on the light control section and the embankment after the light control section is formed.

[0025] The organic composition includes at least one of a light-shielding material and a resin.

[0026] The method further includes attaching the lower display substrate to the upper display substrate after forming the organic material pattern.

[0027] The display substrate includes a light-emitting element that emits blue light.

[0028] Based on the above, defects caused by mis-spraying of the ink composition can be prevented, and the gap between the lower display substrate and the upper display substrate can be maintained.

[0029] In addition, the reliability of the display panel can be improved by the manufacturing method of the display panel. Attached Figure Description

[0030] The above and other advantages of this disclosure will become readily apparent when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and by referring to the following detailed description, in which:

[0031] Figure 1A This is a perspective view showing a display panel according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 1B This is a cross-sectional view showing a display panel according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 2 This is a plan view showing a display panel according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 3A This is a plan view showing the display area of ​​a display panel according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 3B It is based on an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 3A A cross-sectional view taken by line I-I';

[0036] Figure 3C It is based on an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 3A A cross-sectional view taken from line II-II';

[0037] Figure 3D It is based on an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 3A A cross-sectional view taken from line III-III';

[0038] Figure 3E It is based on an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 3AA cross-sectional view taken by line IV-IV';

[0039] Figure 4 This is according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3A A cross-sectional view taken from line III-III';

[0040] Figure 5A This is according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3A A cross-sectional view taken from line II-II';

[0041] Figure 5B This is according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3A A cross-sectional view taken from line III-III';

[0042] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view showing a display panel according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0043] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a display panel according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0044] Figure 8A , Figure 8B , Figure 8C , Figure 8D , Figure 8E , Figure 8F , Figure 8G and Figure 8H This is a view illustrating the process of manufacturing a display panel according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0045] This disclosure can be modified and implemented in many different forms, and therefore specific embodiments will be illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in detail below. However, this disclosure should not be limited to the specific form disclosed and should be construed as including all modifications, equivalents, or substitutions included within the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0046] Throughout this specification, similar reference numerals refer to similar elements. In the drawings, the thickness, scale, and dimensions of components are exaggerated for the sake of effective description of the technical content. It will be understood that although the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, parts, areas, layers, and / or sections, these elements, parts, areas, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, part, area, layer, or section from another. Therefore, the first element, part, area, layer, or section discussed below may be referred to as the second element, part, area, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of this disclosure. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” as used herein are also intended to include the plural forms.

[0047] It will also be understood that the terms “may include” and / or “including”, when used in this specification, indicate the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and / or clusters thereof.

[0048] In the following description, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0049] Figure 1A This is a perspective view showing a display panel DP according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1B This is a cross-sectional view showing a display panel DP according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 This is a plan view showing a display panel DP according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Reference Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 2 The display panel DP may be one of the following: liquid crystal display panel, electrophoretic display panel, microelectromechanical system (MEMS) display panel, electrowetting display panel, and organic light-emitting display panel; however, it should not be limited to the display panels listed above.

[0051] Although not shown in the figure, the display panel DP may also include structural components or molded components, and depending on the type of display panel DP, may also include a backlight unit.

[0052] The display panel DP may include a lower display substrate 100 and an upper display substrate 200 facing the lower display substrate 100 and spaced apart from the lower display substrate 100. For example, the upper display substrate 200 may be spaced apart from the lower display substrate 100 by a sealant SLM.

[0053] like Figure 1A As shown, the display panel DP can display images through the display area DA in the display surface DP-IS. Figure 1B The outer surface 200-OS of the upper display substrate 200 shown can be the display surface DP-IS.

[0054] The display surface DP-IS may be substantially parallel to a plane defined by a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2. The display surface DP-IS may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA. Pixels PX may be arranged in the display area DA and may not be arranged in the non-display area NDA. The non-display area NDA may be defined along the edge of the display surface DP-IS. The non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA.

[0055] The third direction DR3 can indicate the normal direction of the display surface DP-IS, that is, the thickness direction of the display panel DP. The front (or upper) surface and the rear (or lower) surface of each component are distinguished from each other by the third direction DR3. However, the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2 and the third direction DR3 described in this exemplary embodiment are exemplary.

[0056] In exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the display panel DP may include a flat display surface DP-IS; however, the display surface DP-IS is not limited to a flat surface. The display panel DP may include a bent display surface or a three-dimensional display surface. A three-dimensional display surface may include multiple display areas facing different directions from each other.

[0057] Figure 2 A plan view of a display panel DP is shown, comprising multiple signal lines GL1 to GLn and multiple signal lines DL1 to DLm connected to a gate metal circuit GDC, and multiple pixels PX11 to PXnm. The multiple signal lines GL1 to GLn and DL1 to DLm may include multiple gate lines GL1 to GLn and multiple data lines DL1 to DLm.

[0058] Each of the plurality of pixels PX11 to PXnm can be connected to a corresponding gate line among the plurality of gate lines GL1 to GLn and a corresponding data line among the plurality of data lines DL1 to DLm. Each of the plurality of pixels PX11 to PXnm may include pixel driving circuitry and display elements. The type of signal lines arranged in the display panel DP can be determined according to the configuration of the pixel driving circuitry.

[0059] Multiple pixels PX11 to PXnm can be arranged in a matrix; however, the arrangement of multiple pixels PX11 to PXnm should not be limited to a matrix. Multiple pixels PX11 to PXnm can be arranged in a pentile pattern. Multiple pixels PX11 to PXnm can be arranged in a diamond shape.

[0060] Gate driving circuits can be arranged in the non-display area (NDA). For example, the gate driving circuits can be directly integrated into the display panel (DP) using either oxide silicon gate driver circuit (OSG) or amorphous silicon gate driver circuit (ASG) technology.

[0061] Figure 3A This is a plan view showing the display area DA of a display panel DP according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3B It is based on an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 3A The cross-sectional view taken by line I-I'. Figure 3C It is based on an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 3A The cross-sectional view taken from line II-II'. Figure 3D It is based on an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 3A The cross-sectional view taken from line III-III'. Figure 3E It is based on an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 3A A cross-sectional view taken from line IV-IV'.

[0062] Figure 3A It is shown Figure 1A The image shows a magnified view of a portion of the display area DA. It primarily shows three pixel regions: PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B. Figure 3A The three pixel regions PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B shown can be repeatedly arranged in the display area DA along the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0063] The light-shielding region NPXA can be arranged to surround the first pixel region PXA-R, the second pixel region PXA-G, and the third pixel region PXA-B. The first pixel region PXA-R, the second pixel region PXA-G, the third pixel region PXA-B, and the light-shielding region NPXA can be substantially defined in the upper display substrate 200.

[0064] In this exemplary embodiment, at least two of the first pixel regions PXA-R, the second pixel regions PXA-G, and the third pixel regions PXA-B may have different dimensions in a planar view; however, they should not be limited thereto or by this limitation. All of the first pixel regions PXA-R, the second pixel regions PXA-G, and the third pixel regions PXA-B may have the same size, or each of the first pixel regions PXA-R, the second pixel regions PXA-G, and the third pixel regions PXA-B may have different dimensions. The first pixel regions PXA-R, the second pixel regions PXA-G, and the third pixel regions PXA-B may have polygonal shapes in a planar view; however, they should not be limited thereto or by this limitation. The first pixel regions PXA-R, the second pixel regions PXA-G, and the third pixel regions PXA-B may have rectangular or square shapes with rounded corners in a planar view.

[0065] Among the first pixel region PXA-R, the second pixel region PXA-G, and the third pixel region PXA-B, one pixel region can provide the user with a first color light, another pixel region can provide the user with a second color light that is different from the first color light, and the remaining pixel regions can provide the user with a third color light that is different from the first color light and the second color light.

[0066] In this exemplary embodiment, the first pixel region PXA-R can provide red light, the second pixel region PXA-G can provide green light, and the third pixel region PXA-B can provide blue light. In this exemplary embodiment, the source light can be blue light as the third color light. The source light can be generated by a light source such as a backlight unit or a display element such as a light-emitting diode.

[0067] The light-blocking region NPXA serves as the boundary between the first pixel region PXA-R, the second pixel region PXA-G, and the third pixel region PXA-B, thus preventing color mixing between these regions. Additionally, the light-blocking region NPXA blocks source light, ensuring that source light does not reach the user through it.

[0068] Figure 3B A cross-section of the display panel DP corresponding to the third pixel region PXA-B is shown. Figure 3B A cross-section corresponding to the driving transistor TD and the light-emitting element OLED is shown.

[0069] Reference Figure 3B A cross-section corresponding to the driving transistor TD and the light-emitting element OLED is shown as a representative example. The upper display substrate 200 and the lower display substrate 100 are spaced apart from each other by a predetermined gap GP.

[0070] The gap GP can be made by columnar spacers CS arranged in the upper display substrate 200 (see reference). Figure 3C This is to maintain it. The columnar spacers (CS) will be described in detail later. Figure 3B In the diagram, an air layer is shown as a representative example of a gap GP; however, gap GPs should not be limited to air layers. Gap GPs may be filled with organic or inorganic adhesive layers.

[0071] like Figure 3B As shown, the lower display substrate 100 may include a first base substrate BS1, a circuit element layer DP-CL disposed on the first base substrate BS1, and a display element layer DP-OLED disposed on the circuit element layer DP-CL.

[0072] The first base substrate BS1 may include a synthetic resin substrate or a glass substrate. The circuit element layer DP-CL may include at least one insulating layer and circuit elements. The circuit elements may include signal lines and pixel driving circuitry. The circuit element layer DP-CL may be formed by processes (such as coating and deposition processes) for forming insulating, semiconductor, and conductive layers, and by processes (such as photolithography processes) for patterning insulating, semiconductor, and conductive layers.

[0073] In this exemplary embodiment, the circuit element layer DP-CL may include a buffer layer BFL, a first insulating layer 10, a second insulating layer 20, and a third insulating layer 30. The first insulating layer 10 and the second insulating layer 20 may be inorganic layers, and the third insulating layer 30 may be an organic layer.

[0074] Figure 3B The structure of the active region AD, source region SD, drain region DD, and gate electrode GD forming the driving transistor TD is shown. The active region AD, source region SD, and drain region DD can be distinguished from each other according to the doping concentration or conductivity of the active layer.

[0075] The display element layer DP-OLED may include a light-emitting element OLED. The light-emitting element OLED can generate the source light described above. The light-emitting element OLED may include a first electrode AE, a second electrode CE, and a light-emitting layer EML disposed between the first electrode AE ​​and the second electrode CE. In this exemplary embodiment, the light-emitting element OLED may include an organic light-emitting diode. The display element layer DP-OLED may include a pixel-defining layer PDL. As an example, the pixel-defining layer PDL may be an organic layer, but is not limited thereto.

[0076] The first electrode AE ​​can be disposed on the third insulating layer 30. Figure 3BThe connection structure between the first electrode AE ​​and the driving transistor TD is not shown; however, the first electrode AE ​​can be directly or indirectly connected to the driving transistor TD. An opening OP can be formed through the pixel defining layer PDL. At least a portion of the first electrode AE ​​can be exposed through the opening OP of the pixel defining layer PDL. The first electrode AE ​​exposed by the pixel defining layer PDL can be a light-emitting region.

[0077] The hole control layer HCL, the light-emitting layer EML, and the electronic control layer ECL can be arranged in a common location across the first electrode AE ​​and the pixel definition layer PDL. The hole control layer HCL, the light-emitting layer EML, and the electronic control layer ECL can also be arranged together in the first pixel region PXA-R, the second pixel region PXA-G, and the third pixel region PXA-B (see reference). Figure 3A )middle.

[0078] The hole control layer (HCL) may include a hole transport layer and may also include a hole injection layer. The emissive layer (EML) generates blue light. The blue light may have a wavelength of about 410 nm to about 480 nm. The emission spectrum of the blue light may have a maximum peak in the range of about 440 nm to about 460 nm. The electron control layer (ECL) may include an electron transport layer and may also include an electron injection layer. The emissive layer (EML) may have a tandem structure or a monolayer structure.

[0079] The second electrode CE can be disposed on the electronic control layer ECL. The second electrode CE can be commonly disposed in the first pixel region PXA-R, the second pixel region PXA-G, and the third pixel region PXA-B (see reference). Figure 3A In the first electrode AE, the second electrode CE may have a larger area than the first electrode AE.

[0080] A thin-film encapsulation layer (TFE) may be disposed on the second electrode (CE) to encapsulate the second electrode (CE). The thin-film encapsulation layer (TFE) may comprise organic or inorganic materials. Specifically, the thin-film encapsulation layer (TFE) may have a multilayer structure with alternating inorganic and organic layers. For example, the thin-film encapsulation layer (TFE) may have an encapsulation structure of inorganic layer / organic layer / inorganic layer. The thin-film encapsulation layer (TFE) may also include a refractive index control layer to improve luminous efficiency.

[0081] Although not shown in the figures, the lower display substrate 100 may include components respectively with... Figure 3A The first pixel region PXA-R, the second pixel region PXA-G, and the third pixel region PXA-B shown correspond to the first display element, the second display element, and the third display element. The first display element, the second display element, and the third display element may have the same stacking structure and may have the same... Figure 3B The stacking structure of the light-emitting elements OLED shown is essentially the same as the stacking structure.

[0082] like Figure 3B As shown, the upper display substrate 200 may include a second base substrate BS2, a color filter layer CFL disposed on the lower surface of the second base substrate BS2, and a light control layer WCL disposed below the color filter layer CFL.

[0083] The second base substrate BS2 may include a synthetic resin substrate or a glass substrate. The color filter layer CFL may include a dividing pattern BM disposed on the lower surface of the second base substrate BS2, a first color filter CF-R overlapping the first pixel region PXA-R, a second color filter CF-G overlapping the second pixel region PXA-G, and a third color filter CF-B overlapping the third pixel region PXA-B.

[0084] The dividing pattern BM can be a light-shielding pattern and is disposed on the second base substrate BS2 to overlap with the light-shielding region NPXA. The opening BM-OP can be defined by the dividing pattern BM to correspond to each of the first pixel regions PXA-R, the second pixel regions PXA-G, and the third pixel regions PXA-B. In this exemplary embodiment, the third pixel region PXA-B can be defined to correspond to the opening BM-OP of the dividing pattern BM.

[0085] The first color filter CF-R, the second color filter CF-G, and the third color filter CF-B can transmit light with different wavelengths from each other. In this exemplary embodiment, the first color filter CF-R can be a red color filter, the second color filter CF-G can be a green color filter, and the third color filter CF-B can be a blue color filter.

[0086] The first color filter CF-R, the second color filter CF-G, and the third color filter CF-B may include a base resin and dyes and / or pigments dispersed in the base resin. The first color filter CF-R, the second color filter CF-G, and the third color filter CF-B may include different types of dyes and / or pigments.

[0087] The optical control layer (WCL) may include multiple embankments (BK), a first optical control unit (CCF-R), a second optical control unit (CCF-G), and a third optical control unit (CCF-B). The first optical control unit (CCF-R), the second optical control unit (CCF-G), and the third optical control unit (CCF-B) may be arranged between the multiple embankments (BK).

[0088] Each of the first light control unit CCF-R and the second light control unit CCF-G can absorb source light and generate light with a color different from the source light. The first light control unit CCF-R and the second light control unit CCF-G can be light conversion layers. The first light control unit CCF-R can generate light that is transmitted through the first color filter CF-R, and the second light control unit CCF-G can generate light that is transmitted through the second color filter CF-G.

[0089] Each of the first light control unit CCF-R, the second light control unit CCF-G, and the third light control unit CCF-B may include a base resin, scattering particles, and quantum dots. The scattering particles can scatter source light incident on the light control unit. The third light control unit CCF-B may not have quantum dots.

[0090] Each of the first light control unit CCF-R and the second light control unit CCF-G may include a base resin and corresponding quantum dots QD1 (or QD2) mixed with (or dispersed therein) the base resin. The base resin may be a medium in which quantum dots QD1 and quantum dots QD2 are dispersed, and may include various resin compositions commonly referred to as binders, but is not limited thereto. In this disclosure, any medium in which quantum dots are dispersed may be referred to as a base resin, regardless of its name, additional functions, constituent materials, etc. The base resin may be a polymer resin. For example, the base resin may be an acrylic resin, a polyurethane resin, a silicone resin, or an epoxy resin. The base resin may be a transparent resin.

[0091] Quantum dots (QD1 and QD2) are particles that alter the wavelength of light incident upon them. QD1 and QD2 are materials with crystal structures several nanometers in size, containing hundreds to thousands of atoms, and exhibit a quantum confinement effect where the band gap increases due to their small size. When light with a wavelength having energy higher than the band gap is incident on QD1 and QD2, they absorb the light and become excited. They then emit light of a specific wavelength and fall into their ground state. The emitted wavelength corresponds to the value of the band gap. The luminescence properties of QD1 and QD2 due to the quantum confinement effect can be controlled by adjusting their size and composition.

[0092] The first optical control unit CCF-R may include a first quantum dot QD1, and the second optical control unit CCF-G may include a second quantum dot QD2, which is different from the first quantum dot QD1. The first quantum dot QD1 can absorb blue light and generate red light. The second quantum dot QD2 can absorb blue light and generate green light.

[0093] Quantum dots can be selected from group II-VI compounds, group III-V compounds, group IV-VI compounds, group IV elements, group IV compounds and combinations thereof.

[0094] Group II-VI compounds can be selected from binary, ternary, and quaternary compounds. Binary compounds are selected from clusters consisting of CdS, CdSe, CdTe, ZnS, ZnSe, ZnTe, ZnO, HgS, HgSe, HgTe, MgSe, MgS, and mixtures thereof. Ternary compounds are selected from CdSeS, CdSeTe, CdSTe, ZnSeS, ZnSeTe, ZnSTe, HgSeS, HgSeTe, HgSTe, CdZnS, Cd... The cluster consisting of ZnSe, CdZnTe, CdHgS, CdHgSe, CdHgTe, HgZnS, HgZnSe, HgZnTe, MgZnSe, MgZnS and mixtures thereof, wherein the quaternary compound is selected from the cluster consisting of HgZnTeS, CdZnSeS, CdZnSeTe, CdZnSTe, CdHgSeS, CdHgSeTe, CdHgSTe, HgZnSeS, HgZnSeTe, HgZnSTe and mixtures thereof.

[0095] III-V group compounds can be selected from binary, ternary, and quaternary compounds. Binary compounds are selected from the cluster consisting of GaN, GaP, GaAs, GaSb, AlN, AlP, AlAs, AlSb, InN, InP, InAs, InSb, and mixtures thereof. Ternary compounds are selected from the cluster consisting of GaNP, GaNAs, GaNSb, GaPAs, GaPSb, AlNP, AlNAs, AlNSb, AlPAs, AlPSb, InNP, InNAs, InNSb, InPAs, InPSb, and mixtures thereof. Quaternary compounds are selected from the cluster consisting of GaAlNAs, GaAlNSb, GaAlPAs, GaAlPSb, GaInNP, GaInNAs, GaInNSb, GaInPAs, GaInPSb, InAlNP, InAlNAs, InAlNSb, InAlPAs, InAlPSb, GaAlNP, and mixtures thereof.

[0096] Group IV-VI compounds can be selected from binary, ternary, and quaternary compounds. Binary compounds are selected from the cluster consisting of SnS, SnSe, SnTe, PbS, PbSe, PbTe, and mixtures thereof. Ternary compounds are selected from the cluster consisting of SnSeS, SnSeTe, SnSTe, PbSeS, PbSeTe, PbSTe, SnPbS, SnPbSe, SnPbTe, and mixtures thereof. Quaternary compounds are selected from the cluster consisting of SnPbSSe, SnPbSeTe, SnPbSTe, and mixtures thereof. Group IV elements can be selected from the cluster consisting of Si, Ge, and mixtures thereof. Group IV compounds can be binary compounds selected from the cluster consisting of SiC, SiGe, and mixtures thereof.

[0097] In this case, binary, ternary, or quaternary compounds can exist in multiple particles at a uniform concentration, or they can exist in the same particle after being divided into multiple parts with different concentrations.

[0098] Each quantum dot may have a core-shell structure, comprising a core and a shell surrounding the core. Additionally, each quantum dot may have a core-shell structure in which one quantum dot surrounds another. The interface between the core and shell may have a concentration gradient in which the concentration of the element present in the shell decreases with decreasing distance from the core.

[0099] Quantum dots can be nanoscale particles. They can have a full width at half maximum (FWHM) of about 45 nm or less, preferably about 40 nm or less, and more preferably about 30 nm or less. Color purity and color reproducibility can be improved within this range. Furthermore, since light emitted through quantum dots can be emitted in all directions, the optical viewing angle can be improved.

[0100] Furthermore, the shape of quantum dots is a commonly used shape in this field and should not be particularly limited. More specifically, spherical, pyramidal, multi-armed, or cubic nanoparticles, nanotubes, nanowires, nanofibers, nanosheets, or the like can be used for quantum dots.

[0101] The third light control unit CCF-B is capable of transmitting source light. In an exemplary embodiment, the third light control unit CCF-B is capable of transmitting blue light. The third light control unit CCF-B may include a base resin and may also include scattering particles. The scattering particles may be titanium oxide (TiO2) particles or silica-based nanoparticles.

[0102] Dike BK may include organic materials. For example, Dike BK may include lyophobic organic materials, however it should not be limited to or restricted by this. Dike BK may also include inorganic materials.

[0103] The upper display substrate 200 may further include at least one capping layer. For example, the first capping layer ENL1 may cover the first color filter CF-R, the second color filter CF-G, and the third color filter CF-B. The first capping layer ENL1 may include an inorganic layer. The first capping layer ENL1 may include one of silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride. The first capping layer ENL1 may also include an organic layer providing a flat lower surface.

[0104] The second cover layer ENL2 may cover the first optical control unit CCF-R, the second optical control unit CCF-G, and the third optical control unit CCF-B. The second cover layer ENL2 may include an inorganic layer. The second cover layer ENL2 may also include an organic layer disposed below the inorganic layer to provide a flat lower surface.

[0105] Figures 3C to 3E This is a cross-sectional view showing an upper display substrate 200 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In the following text, it is referred to as... Figures 1A to 3B Detailed descriptions of components that are identical to those in the original text will be omitted.

[0106] Figure 3C The light-shielding region NPXA is shown as being arranged along the first direction DR1 between adjacent third pixel regions PXA-B.

[0107] In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of dams BK may overlap with the light-shielding region NPXA and may include a first dam BK1, a second dam BK2, and a bridging dam BK-C disposed on a color filter layer CFL on a second base substrate BS2. The first dam BK1, the second dam BK2, and the bridging dam BK-C may be arranged adjacent to each other along a first direction DR1. The first dam BK1, the second dam BK2, and the bridging dam BK-C may be formed simultaneously using the same material. A predetermined space SP may be defined between the first dam BK1, the second dam BK2, and the bridging dam BK-C.

[0108] In an exemplary embodiment, the color filter layer CFL may be disposed on the second base substrate BS2. The first dam BK1, the second dam BK2, and the bridging dam BK-C may be disposed on the color filter layer CFL.

[0109] A bridging dam BK-C may be arranged along a first direction DR1 between adjacent first dam BK1 and second dam BK2. The bridging dam BK-C may be positioned at the center between the first dam BK1 and second dam BK2 to have a substantially circular configuration, but the shape of the bridging dam BK-C should not be limited thereto or thereby restricted. The shape of the bridging dam BK-C may be polygonal. An organic material pattern PN comprising organic material may be arranged on the bridging dam BK-C to overlap with the bridging dam BK-C in a plan view. The organic material pattern PN may include at least one of a light-shielding material and a resin. The organic material pattern PN may possess light-shielding, insulating, and elastic properties.

[0110] In an exemplary embodiment, the second cover layer ENL2 may be disposed on the first dike BK1, the second dike BK2, and the bridging dike BK-C between the organic material pattern PN and the first dike BK1, the second dike BK2, and the bridging dike BK-C. The organic material pattern PN may be in direct contact with the second cover layer ENL2.

[0111] An organic material pattern PN may be arranged between the first embankment BK1 and the second embankment BK2 in a plan view, and at least a portion of the organic material pattern PN may be arranged on the bridging embankment BK-C to overlap with the bridging embankment BK-C in a plan view. The organic material pattern PN may completely cover the bridging embankment BK-C in a plan view. In the following, the organic material pattern PN that overlaps with the bridging embankment BK-C in a plan view may be referred to as the "bridging pattern CS-PN".

[0112] The bridging barrier BK-C and the bridging pattern CS-PN can maintain the gap GP between the upper display substrate 200 and the lower display substrate 100 (see reference). Figure 3B ) columnar spacers CS.

[0113] In an exemplary embodiment, columnar spacers CS may be arranged on multiple pixels PX11 to PXnm (see reference). Figure 2 They can be arranged at regular intervals between multiple pixels PX11 to PXnm (see reference). Figure 2 Between. For example, columnar spacers CS can be spaced along the first direction DR1 at multiple pixels PX11 to PXnm (refer to). Figure 2 The pixels are arranged in units of four, and can be arranged along the second direction DR2 in multiple pixels PX11 to PXnm (see reference). Figure 2 The organic material pattern PN is arranged in units of three pixels. However, the exemplary implementation is not limited to this or by this limitation, and the spacing of the organic material pattern PN can be set as needed without particular limitation.

[0114] When columnar spacers CS are arranged at regular intervals, columnar spacers CS may not be arranged in some shading areas NPXA.

[0115] Figure 3D The diagram shows a shading area NPXA without columnar spacers CS. In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of embankments BK may include a third embankment BK3, a fourth embankment BK4, and a non-bridging embankment BK-N arranged to overlap with the shading area NPXA. The third embankment BK3, the fourth embankment BK4, and the non-bridging embankment BK-N may be arranged adjacent to each other. The first embankment BK1, the second embankment BK2, and the bridging embankment BK-C may be formed simultaneously using the same material.

[0116] In an exemplary embodiment, the color filter layer CFL may be disposed on the second base substrate BS2. The third dam BK3, the fourth dam BK4, and the non-bridging dam BK-N may be disposed on the color filter layer CFL.

[0117] The non-bridging dike BK-N can be arranged between the third dike BK3 and the fourth dike BK4. In an exemplary embodiment, the non-bridging dike BK-N can be arranged at the center between the third dike BK3 and the fourth dike BK4. The non-bridging dike BK-N may not have an organic material pattern arranged on it.

[0118] Organic material patterns may not be arranged on the upper surface of the non-bridging embankment BK-N. The non-bridging embankment BK-N may not form columnar spacers.

[0119] The second cover layer ENL2 can be arranged on the third dike BK3, the fourth dike BK4, and the non-bridging dike BK-N.

[0120] Figure 3E The columnar spacers CS arranged to overlap with the shading area NPXA are shown.

[0121] Reference Figures 3C to 3E The display area DA, and the bridging layer BK-C can be arranged over multiple pixels PX11 to PXnm (see reference). Figure 2 Between ), the organic material pattern PN can be arranged in units of four pixels along the first direction DR1 and in units of three pixels along the second direction DR2. Depending on the spacing of the organic material pattern PN, the portion where both the bridging dam BK-C and the organic material pattern PN are arranged can be used as columnar spacers CS.

[0122] Figure 4 This is according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3A The cross-sectional view taken by line III-III'. In the following text, with reference to... Figures 1A to 3E Detailed descriptions of components that are identical to those described will be omitted.

[0123] Figure 4A light-shading area NPXA without columnar spacers is shown according to another exemplary embodiment. A plurality of embankments BK may include a third embankment BK3, a fourth embankment BK4, and an organic material pattern PN' arranged to overlap with the light-shading area NPXA. The third embankment BK3 and the fourth embankment BK4 may be arranged adjacent to each other.

[0124] The organic material pattern PN' can be arranged between the third bank BK3 and the fourth bank BK4, and can be arranged on the second base substrate BS2. More specifically, the organic material pattern PN' can be arranged between the third bank BK3 and the fourth bank BK4, and can be arranged on the second capping layer ENL2 arranged on the second base substrate BS2.

[0125] In an exemplary embodiment, the organic material pattern PN' may have a height H1 smaller than each of the height H2 of the third dike BK3 and the height H3 of the fourth dike BK4. In this disclosure, the height is the length measured based on the lower surface of the second base substrate BS2.

[0126] because Figure 4 The height H1 of the organic material pattern PN' shown is smaller than each of the heights H2 of the third dike BK3 and H3 of the fourth dike BK4, therefore... Figure 3C The organic material pattern PN shown is different; the organic material pattern PN' may not form columnar spacers.

[0127] Reference Figure 4 Organic material patterns PN' can be arranged in multiple pixels PX11 to PXnm (see reference). Figure 2 Between. Bridge connecting embankment BK-C (refer to) Figure 3C They can be arranged at regular intervals. For example, the bridging dike BK-C (refer to...) Figure 3C It can be arranged in units of four pixels along the first direction DR1, and in units of three pixels along the second direction DR2. Based on the arrangement, there is a bridging embankment BK-C (refer to...). Figure 3C The intervals are arranged with bridging dikes BK-C (refer to...). Figure 3C Both the PN and organic material patterns can be used as columnar spacers (see CS). Figure 3C Additionally, such as Figure 4 As shown, columnar spacers may not be formed where bridging embankments BK-C are not arranged (see reference). Figure 3C In the light-shielding region NPXA of the organic material pattern PN. For example, refer to Figure 4 Because the bridging embankment BK-C (refer to) Figure 3C The material pattern PN' was not arranged in the shading area NPXA, and only the organic material pattern PN' was arranged in the shading area NPXA. Therefore, no columnar spacers were formed in the shading area NPXA.

[0128] Figure 5A This is according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3A The cross-sectional view taken from line II-II'. Figure 5B This is according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3A The cross-sectional view taken from line III-III'. (Refer to...) Figure 5A The organic material pattern PN can be arranged to overlap with the first dam BK1, the bridging dam BK-C, and the second dam BK2 in a plan view, and can be arranged not to overlap with the third light control unit CCF-B. The bridging dam BK-C and the bridging pattern CS-PN can form columnar spacers CS.

[0129] In an exemplary embodiment, the organic material pattern PN can completely fill the predetermined space between the first dike BK1, the bridging dike BK-C, and the second dike BK2 (see reference). Figure 3C The “SP”). Due to the reserved space (see Figure 3C The “SP” is completely filled with an organic material pattern PN, which prevents the formation of bubbles during the bonding process of the upper display substrate 200 and the lower display substrate 100, and improves the reliability of the display panel DP.

[0130] Reference Figure 5B The organic material pattern PN' can completely fill the predetermined space between the third dike BK3 and the fourth dike BK4 (see reference). Figure 3C The “SP”). Due to the reserved space (see Figure 3C The “SP” is filled with an organic material pattern PN’, which prevents the formation of bubbles during the bonding process of the upper display substrate 200 and the lower display substrate 100 and improves the reliability of the display panel DP.

[0131] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display panel DP according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The display panel DP may include a lower display substrate 100 and an upper display substrate 200. Since the upper display substrate 200 may include columnar spacers CS, and the columnar spacers CS include bridging dams BK-C and bridging patterns CS-PN, a gap can be maintained between the lower display substrate 100 and the upper display substrate 200.

[0132] In the display panel DP according to an exemplary embodiment, the bridging dam BK-C arranged in the light-shielding area NPXA and the bridging pattern CS-PN arranged on the bridging dam BK-C can be used as columnar spacers CS, instead of forming separate columnar spacers to maintain the gap between the lower display substrate 100 and the upper display substrate 200. Accordingly, since a predetermined space is defined between the bridging dam BK-C arranged in the light-shielding area NPXA and other dams, defects caused by mis-spraying during the inkjet process can be prevented, and the gap between the lower display substrate 100 and the upper display substrate 200 can be maintained, thus improving the reliability of the display panel DP.

[0133] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a display panel DP according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 8A to 8H This is a view illustrating a method of manufacturing a display panel DP according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0134] Reference Figure 7 The manufacturing method of the display panel DP (S10) may include: preparing a base substrate (S100); forming a color filter layer on the base substrate (S200); forming a dam on the color filter layer (S300); forming a light control part between some of the dams (S400); and providing and curing an organic composition between some of the dams to form an organic material pattern (S500).

[0135] Reference Figure 7 , Figure 8A and Figure 8B The fabrication of the base substrate BS (S100) may include the fabrication of a synthetic resin substrate or a glass substrate. Although not shown in the figures, forming the color filter layer CFL (S200) on the base substrate BS may include forming a partitioned pattern BM (see figure) on the base substrate BS. Figure 3B ), First color filter CF-R (refer to) Figure 3B ), second color filter CF-G (refer to) Figure 3B ), and the third color filter CF-B (see reference) Figure 3B ).

[0136] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8C Forming multiple dams BK (S300) on the color filter layer CFL may include forming an eleventh dam BK11, a twelfth dam BK12, a thirteenth dam BK13, a fourteenth dam BK14, and a fifteenth dam BK15 on the color filter layer CFL.

[0137] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8DThe formation of light control units CCF1 and CCF2 (S400) may include forming light control unit CCF1 between the eleventh bank BK11 and the twelfth bank BK12, and forming light control unit CCF2 between the fourteenth bank BK14 and the fifteenth bank BK15. Light control units CCF1 and CCF2 may include a base resin and a functional material FN. The functional material FN may include at least one of scattering particles and quantum dots. Light control units CCF1 and CCF2 can be obtained by irradiating with ultraviolet light UV to cure ink provided by an inkjet method.

[0138] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8E After forming the optical control unit CCF1 and the optical control unit CCF2, a process of forming a cover layer ENL on the optical control unit CCF1, the optical control unit CCF2 and multiple embankments BK can also be performed.

[0139] The ENL coating protects the light control units CCF1 and CCF2 from external oxygen and / or moisture.

[0140] Reference Figure 7 , Figure 8F and Figure 8G Providing and curing an organic composition CS-O between some of the multiple dikes BK to form an organic material pattern PN (S500) may include forming the organic composition CS-O to cover the twelfth dike BK12, the thirteenth dike BK13, and the fourteenth dike BK14. The organic composition CS-O may overlap with the twelfth dike BK12, the thirteenth dike BK13, and the fourteenth dike BK14, and may not overlap with the light control units CCF1 and CCF2.

[0141] The organic composition CS-O may include at least one of a light-shielding material and a resin; however, exemplary embodiments should not be limited thereto or thereby restricted. The organic composition CS-O may also include a curing initiator. The organic composition CS-O may be cured by ultraviolet light (UV) irradiation thereon. The cured organic composition CS-O may form an organic material pattern PN. The organic material pattern PN may overlap with the twelfth bank BK12, the thirteenth bank BK13, and the fourteenth bank BK14, and may not overlap with the light control sections CCF1 and CCF2.

[0142] The thirteenth dike, BK13, can be the aforementioned bridging dike, BK-C. The organic material pattern PN overlapping the thirteenth dike, BK13, can be the bridging pattern CS-PN (see reference). Figure 3C The columnar spacers CS, including the thirteenth dike BK13 and the bridging pattern CS-PN, can be formed by curing the organic composition CS-O.

[0143] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8H After forming the organic material pattern PN (S500), a process can be performed to attach the lower display substrate 100 to the upper display substrate 200. An adhesive layer FL can be disposed between the lower display substrate 100 and the upper display substrate 200. The adhesive layer FL may include organic or inorganic materials.

[0144] The columnar spacer CS can be insulating and elastic, and thus maintain the gap between the lower display substrate 100 and the upper display substrate 200. Figure 8H The lower display substrate 100 in the middle can be compared with the reference Figure 3B The lower display substrate 100 described is substantially the same.

[0145] According to the manufacturing method of the display panel, organic material patterns can be arranged on bridging dams to allow the bridging dams and bridging patterns to function as columnar spacers. Since the columnar spacers are not formed separately, space can be ensured within the display panel, and therefore, defects caused by mis-spraying of ink can be prevented due to the ensured space. The columnar spacers maintain the gap between the upper and lower display substrates and can provide improved reliability.

[0146] While exemplary embodiments of this disclosure have been described, it will be understood that this disclosure is not to be limited to these exemplary embodiments, but rather that various changes and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art within the spirit and scope of this disclosure as claimed in the appended claims.

[0147] Therefore, the subject matter disclosed herein should not be limited to any single embodiment described herein, and the scope of the inventive concept should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display panel, comprising: An upper display substrate, the upper display substrate including a first pixel region, a second pixel region, a third pixel region, and a light-shielding region surrounding the first pixel region, the second pixel region, and the third pixel region; as well as The lower display substrate includes a light-emitting element. The upper display substrate includes: Basic substrate; A first dam, which overlaps with the light-shielding area and is disposed on the base substrate; A second dam, which overlaps with the light-shielding area and is disposed on the base substrate; A bridging dike, the bridging dike being disposed on the base substrate between the first dike and the second dike; The light control unit, in a plan view, overlaps with the first pixel region and is arranged adjacent to the first embankment; and An organic material pattern, wherein at least a portion of the organic material pattern is disposed on the bridging embankment, and the organic material pattern does not overlap with the light control unit.

2. The display panel as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The organic material pattern is arranged between the first dike and the second dike and covers the bridging dike.

3. The display panel as claimed in claim 1, wherein, In a plan view, at least a portion of the organic material pattern arranged on the bridging embankment overlaps with the bridging embankment.

4. The display panel as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The light control unit includes at least one of scattering particles and quantum dots.

5. The display panel as claimed in claim 4, wherein, The organic material pattern overlaps with the first dike, the bridging dike, and the second dike.

6. The display panel as claimed in claim 4, wherein, The light control unit transmits source light generated by the light-emitting element or converts the wavelength of the source light.

7. The display panel as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The portion of the organic material pattern that overlaps with the bridging embankment is arranged to be closest to the lower display substrate.

8. The display panel as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: A covering layer disposed between the bridging embankment and the organic material pattern.

9. The display panel as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The organic material pattern includes at least one of a light-shielding material and a resin.

10. The display panel as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The upper display substrate also includes: A color filter layer, disposed between the base substrate and the first dam, the color filter layer comprising: A first color filter, which overlaps with the first pixel region; A second color filter, which overlaps with the second pixel region and transmits light having a wavelength different from the light transmitted through the first color filter; and A third color filter overlaps with the third pixel region and transmits light having a different wavelength from each of the wavelengths of the light transmitted through the first color filter and the wavelength of the light transmitted through the second color filter.

11. The display panel of claim 1, further comprising: A third dike, which is arranged on the base substrate; A fourth dike is disposed on the base substrate; as well as A non-bridging dike is arranged between the third dike and the fourth dike, wherein the non-bridging dike does not overlap with the organic material pattern.

12. The display panel of claim 1, further comprising: A third dike, which is arranged on the base substrate; as well as A fourth dike is disposed on the base substrate, wherein the organic material pattern is disposed between the third dike and the fourth dike, and the organic material pattern has a height lower than that of each of the third dike and the fourth dike.

13. The display panel as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The upper display substrate includes: A display area that overlaps with the first pixel area, the second pixel area, the third pixel area, and the light-blocking area; and A non-display area that surrounds the display area, and The organic material pattern overlaps with the display area.

14. The display panel as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The light-emitting element emits blue light.

15. The display panel as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The first pixel region, the second pixel region, and the third pixel region respectively provide red light, green light, and blue light.

Images