Display panel and display device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a display panel and a display device. The display panel includes a substrate including a front display area, a first side display area connected to the front display area in a first direction, a second side display area connected to the front display area in a second direction, a corner display area between the first side display area and the second side display area, an intermediate display area between the front display area and the corner display area, wherein a first display element is in the front display area, wherein a second display element is in the corner display area, wherein a third display element is in the intermediate display area, and a recess is defined on the substrate; and an inorganic pattern layer on opposite sides of the recess and including a pair of protruding tips protruding toward a center of the recess, wherein the recess is between the second display element and the third display element.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0067863, filed on June 4, 2020, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0109469, filed on August 28, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0002] One or more embodiments relate to a display panel and display device in which a display area for displaying an image is extended. Background Technology

[0003] Mobile electronic devices are widely used. In recent years, in addition to small electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablet PCs have been widely used as mobile (or portable) electronic devices.

[0004] Mobile electronic devices typically include a display device for providing users with various functions, such as visual information like images. As the size of other components used to drive the display device has recently decreased, the proportion of display devices in electronic devices has gradually increased, and display devices with shapes including curved or bent portions that bend from a flat portion at an angle have been developed.

[0005] For example, the display panel of the display device for displaying images may have various curvatures and may therefore include a front display area, a first side display area that is bent and connected to the front display area in a first direction, and a second side display area that is bent and connected to the front display area in a second direction. Summary of the Invention

[0006] One or more embodiments provide a display panel and display device including a corner display area, the corner display area being positioned to correspond to a corner of the front display area and being flexible.

[0007] According to an embodiment, a display panel includes: a substrate comprising: a front display region, a first side display region connected to the front display region in a first direction, a second side display region connected to the front display region in a second direction intersecting the first direction, a corner display region located between the first side display region and the second side display region, and an intermediate display region located between the front display region and the corner display region, wherein a first display element is in the front display region, wherein the corner display region at least partially surrounds the front display region, and a second display element is in the corner display region, wherein a third display element is in the intermediate display region, wherein a groove is defined on the substrate and recessed in the thickness direction of the substrate; and an inorganic pattern layer on opposite sides of the groove on the substrate, wherein the inorganic pattern layer includes a pair of protruding tips projecting toward the center of the groove, and wherein the groove is between the second display element and the third display element.

[0008] In an embodiment, the corner display area may include a plurality of extended areas extending from the central display area, the through portion may be defined between adjacent extended areas, and the second display element may be in the plurality of extended areas.

[0009] In one embodiment, the groove may surround the second display element.

[0010] In an embodiment, the display panel may further include a dam-shaped portion protruding over the inorganic pattern layer and in the thickness direction of the substrate, wherein the dam-shaped portion may include a first dam-shaped portion and a second dam-shaped portion, wherein the first dam-shaped portion may surround the second display element and the second dam-shaped portion may extend along the corner display area.

[0011] In an embodiment, each of the plurality of extended regions may include a first extended region and a second extended region located between the first extended region and the intermediate display region, wherein the second extended regions of the plurality of extended regions may be connected to each other as a single unit, and the groove may be between the first dam-shaped portions of adjacent extended regions.

[0012] In an embodiment, the display panel may further include: a first auxiliary dam-shaped portion, above the inorganic pattern layer and between the second display element and the first dam-shaped portion, and protruding in the thickness direction of the substrate, wherein the thickness of the first dam-shaped portion may be greater than the thickness of the first auxiliary dam-shaped portion.

[0013] In an embodiment, the display panel may further include: a planarization layer located on a substrate, wherein the planarization layer may be divided by grooves into a corner planarization layer and an intermediate planarization layer, wherein a second display element may be on the corner planarization layer and a third display element may be on the intermediate planarization layer.

[0014] In an embodiment, the third display element may include an inner display element and an outer display element adjacent to the recess, wherein the outer display element may include a pixel electrode and a counter electrode, and wherein the pixel electrode may cover at least a portion of the inorganic pattern layer.

[0015] In an embodiment, the display panel may further include: a planarization layer between the substrate and the third display element, wherein the third display element includes an inner display element and an outer display element adjacent to the recess, and wherein the planarization layer includes a recessed portion between the inner display element and the outer display element.

[0016] In an embodiment, the display panel may further include: connecting wiring located on a substrate and extending from a central display area to a plurality of extended areas, wherein the second display element may include a pixel electrode, an intermediate layer and a counter electrode, and wherein the connecting wiring and the counter electrode may be connected to each other at the end portions of the plurality of extended areas.

[0017] In an embodiment, the display panel may further include: a planarization layer located between the connection wiring and the second display element, wherein the contact hole may be defined to penetrate the planarization layer to expose the connection wiring, and wherein the connection wiring and the counter electrode may be connected to each other through a pixel electrode pattern located in the contact hole.

[0018] In an embodiment, the display panel may further include: connecting wiring on a substrate and extending from a central display area to a plurality of extended areas, wherein a plurality of second display elements may be in one of the plurality of extended areas, wherein the plurality of second display elements may each include counter electrodes spaced apart from each other, and wherein each of the counter electrodes may be connected to the connecting wiring.

[0019] In an embodiment, the third display element may include a pixel electrode and a counter electrode, wherein the intermediate display area may include a first intermediate display area and a second intermediate display area located between the first intermediate display area and the corner display area, wherein the display panel may further include connection wiring in the intermediate display area and an intermediate recess defined between the first intermediate display area and the second intermediate display area, wherein each of the counter electrode of the third display element in the first intermediate display area and the counter electrode of the third display element in the second intermediate display area may be connected to the connection wiring through a contact hole.

[0020] In an embodiment, the third display element may include a pixel electrode and a counter electrode, and the third display element may be provided as a plurality of third display elements in an intermediate display region, wherein the display panel may further include connection wiring in the intermediate display region and an intermediate recess defined in the intermediate display region to surround each of the plurality of third display elements, wherein the counter electrodes of the plurality of third display elements in the intermediate display region may be spaced apart from each other by the intermediate recess and each connected to the connection wiring.

[0021] In an embodiment, the corner display area may include: a pixel arrangement area, in each of the pixel arrangement areas, a second display element; and a connection area connecting the pixel arrangement area to the intermediate display area, wherein adjacent pixel arrangement areas and adjacent connection areas may define a through area, and wherein the display panel may further include connection wiring extending from the intermediate display area to the pixel arrangement area.

[0022] In one embodiment, the connecting regions can extend from the central display area in a serpentine shape, wherein adjacent connecting regions can be arranged symmetrically in a direction that separates the pixel arrangement regions from each other.

[0023] In an embodiment, the second display element may include a pixel electrode, an intermediate layer including an emission layer, and a counter electrode, wherein the intermediate layer may include a first functional layer between the pixel electrode and the emission layer and a second functional layer between the counter electrode and the emission layer, wherein the counter electrode and at least one selected from the first and second functional layers are separated by a pair of protruding tips and grooves.

[0024] In an embodiment, the display panel may further include: a dam-shaped portion protruding over the inorganic pattern layer and in the thickness direction of the substrate; and a thin-film encapsulation layer covering the second display element and the third display element, wherein the thin-film encapsulation layer may include an inorganic encapsulation layer and an organic encapsulation layer, wherein the thin-film encapsulation layer extends from the second display element and the third display element to the dam-shaped portion, and wherein the organic encapsulation layer may be separated by the dam-shaped portion.

[0025] In an embodiment, the display panel may further include: an inorganic insulating layer on a substrate; interconnect wiring on the inorganic insulating layer and extending from a central display area to a corner display area; a lower inorganic pattern layer on the interconnect wiring; and a lower layer covering the edge of the lower inorganic pattern layer, wherein a hole may be defined to penetrate the lower layer to correspond to the lower inorganic pattern layer, and wherein a recess may be defined by the hole and the central portion of the lower inorganic pattern layer.

[0026] In an embodiment, the display panel may further include: an inorganic insulating layer on a substrate; interconnect wiring on the inorganic insulating layer and extending from the central display area to the corner display area; a lower inorganic layer on the interconnect wiring; and a lower layer including a first planarization layer and a second planarization layer, wherein an aperture may be defined to penetrate the lower layer to expose a portion of the lower inorganic layer, wherein a recess may be defined by the portion of the lower inorganic layer and the aperture.

[0027] In an embodiment, the display panel may further include: an inorganic insulating layer on a substrate; interconnect wiring on the inorganic insulating layer and extending from the central display area to the corner display area; a metal pattern layer on the interconnect wiring; and a lower layer covering the edge of the metal pattern layer, wherein a hole may be defined to penetrate the lower layer to correspond to the metal pattern layer, and wherein a recess may be defined by the hole and the central portion of the metal pattern layer.

[0028] According to an embodiment, a display device includes: a display panel including a front display area, a corner display area located at a bend in the front display area, and an intermediate display area located between the front display area and the corner display area, wherein a first display element is in the front display area, a second display element is in the corner display area, and a third display element is in the intermediate display area; and a cover window covering the display panel, wherein the corner display area includes a plurality of extension areas extending from the intermediate display area, and wherein the second display element is in the plurality of extension areas.

[0029] In an embodiment, the display panel may include: a substrate, wherein a recessed groove in the thickness direction of the substrate may be defined on the substrate; and an inorganic pattern layer located on opposite sides of the groove and including a pair of protruding tips projecting toward the center of the groove, wherein the groove may be between a second display element and a third display element.

[0030] In an embodiment, the second display element may include a pixel electrode, an intermediate layer including an emission layer, and a counter electrode. The intermediate layer may include a first functional layer between the pixel electrode and the emission layer and a second functional layer between the counter electrode and the emission layer. The counter electrode and at least one selected from the first and second functional layers may be separated by a pair of protruding tips and grooves.

[0031] In one embodiment, the groove may surround the second display element.

[0032] In an embodiment, the display panel may further include a dam-shaped portion protruding over the inorganic pattern layer and in the thickness direction of the substrate, wherein the dam-shaped portion may include a first dam-shaped portion and a second dam-shaped portion, wherein the first dam-shaped portion may surround the second display element and the second dam-shaped portion may extend along the corner display area.

[0033] In an embodiment, the display panel may further include: a first auxiliary dam-shaped portion, above the inorganic pattern layer and between the second display element and the first dam-shaped portion, and protruding in the thickness direction of the substrate, wherein the thickness of the first dam-shaped portion may be greater than the thickness of the first auxiliary dam-shaped portion.

[0034] In an embodiment, the display panel may further include: a dam-shaped portion protruding over the inorganic pattern layer and in the thickness direction of the substrate; and a thin-film encapsulation layer covering the second display element and the third display element, wherein the thin-film encapsulation layer may include an inorganic encapsulation layer and an organic encapsulation layer, wherein the thin-film encapsulation layer extends from the second display element and the third display element to the dam-shaped portion, and wherein the organic encapsulation layer may be separated by the dam-shaped portion.

[0035] In an embodiment, the display panel may further include: connecting wiring on a substrate and extending from a central display area to a plurality of extended areas, wherein the second display element may include a pixel electrode, an intermediate layer and a counter electrode, wherein the connecting wiring and the counter electrode may be connected to each other at the end portions of the plurality of extended areas.

[0036] In an embodiment, the display panel may further include: connecting wiring on a substrate and extending from a central display area to a plurality of extended areas, wherein a plurality of second display elements may be in one of the plurality of extended areas, wherein the plurality of second display elements may each include counter electrodes spaced apart from each other, wherein each of the counter electrodes may be connected to the connecting wiring.

[0037] In an embodiment, the display panel may include: a first side display area connected to the front display area in a first direction and bent with a first radius of curvature; and a second side display area connected to the front display area in a second direction intersecting the first direction and bent with a second radius of curvature different from the first radius of curvature, wherein a corner display area may be located between the first side display area and the second side display area.

[0038] According to an embodiment, a display device includes: a display panel including a front display area, a corner display area at a bend in the front display area, and an intermediate display area between the front display area and the corner display area, wherein a first display element is in the front display area, a second display element is in the corner display area, and a third display element is in the intermediate display area; and a cover window covering the display panel, wherein the corner display area may include: a pixel arrangement area, in each of the pixel arrangement areas; and a connecting area connecting the pixel arrangement areas to the intermediate display area, wherein adjacent pixel arrangement areas and adjacent connecting areas may define a through area, and wherein connecting wiring extending from the intermediate display area to the pixel arrangement area may be in the connecting area.

[0039] In this embodiment, the connecting area can extend from the central display area in a serpentine shape, and adjacent connecting areas can be arranged symmetrically in a direction that separates the pixel arrangement areas from each other.

[0040] In an embodiment, the display panel may include: a substrate, wherein a recessed groove in the thickness direction of the substrate may be defined on the substrate; and an inorganic pattern layer on the opposite side of the groove, wherein the inorganic pattern layer may include a pair of protruding tips protruding toward the center of the groove, wherein the groove may be between the second display element and the through region.

[0041] In an embodiment, the second display element may include a pixel electrode, an intermediate layer including an emission layer, and a counter electrode. The intermediate layer may include a first functional layer between the pixel electrode and the emission layer and a second functional layer between the counter electrode and the emission layer. The counter electrode and at least one selected from the first and second functional layers may be separated by a pair of protruding tips and grooves.

[0042] In an embodiment, the display panel may include: a first side display area connected to the front display area in a first direction and bent with a first radius of curvature; and a second side display area connected to the front display area in a second direction intersecting the first direction and bent with a second radius of curvature different from the first radius of curvature, wherein a corner display area may be located between the first side display area and the second side display area. Attached Figure Description

[0043] The above and other features of embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0044] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment;

[0045] Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2CThis is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment;

[0046] Figure 3 This is an equivalent circuit diagram of the pixel circuitry applicable to a display panel;

[0047] Figure 4A This is a schematic plan view of the display panel according to an embodiment;

[0048] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A Enlarged view of the circled part;

[0049] Figures 5A to 5C This is an enlarged view of a portion of the display panel according to an embodiment;

[0050] Figure 6A and Figure 6B This is a plan view of one of the extended regions according to an embodiment;

[0051] Figure 7A and Figure 7B This is a plan view illustrating the sub-pixel arrangement structure of the extended region according to an embodiment;

[0052] Figure 8A This is a cross-sectional view of the front display area according to an embodiment;

[0053] Figure 8B yes Figure 8A Enlarged view of the circled part;

[0054] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a recess in a display panel according to an embodiment;

[0055] Figure 10A It is along Figure 6A A cross-sectional view taken by line X-X';

[0056] Figure 10B It is a diagram. Figure 10A Enlarged view of the grooves and dam-like sections;

[0057] Figure 10C This is an enlarged view illustrating the groove and dam-shaped portion according to an alternative embodiment;

[0058] Figure 11A According to the alternative embodiments along Figure 6A A cross-sectional view taken by line X-X';

[0059] Figure 11B It is a diagram. Figure 11A Enlarged view of the grooves and dam-like sections;

[0060] Figure 12A , Figure 12B and Figure 12C The illustration shows enlarged views of the grooves and dam-shaped portions according to various embodiments;

[0061] Figure 13 It is along Figure 6A A cross-sectional view taken from line XIII-XIII';

[0062] Figure 14 This is a plan view illustrating one of the extended regions according to an alternative embodiment;

[0063] Figure 15 This is a plan view of the corner display area and the middle display area according to an embodiment;

[0064] Figure 16A It is along Figure 15 A cross-sectional view taken from line XVI-XVI';

[0065] Figure 16B It is a diagram. Figure 16A Enlarged view of the grooves and dam-like sections;

[0066] Figure 17 It is along Figure 15 A cross-sectional view taken from line XVII-XVII';

[0067] Figure 18 It is along Figure 15 A cross-sectional view taken from line XVIII-XVIII';

[0068] Figure 19 It is along Figure 15 A cross-sectional view taken from the line XIX-XIX';

[0069] Figure 20A The illustration shows simulation results regarding the deformation of the thin-film encapsulation layer when the corner display area includes multiple extended regions;

[0070] Figure 20B The illustration shows the simulation results of the deformation of the thin-film encapsulation layer when the corner display area is formed as a whole;

[0071] Figure 21A and Figure 21B This is a plan view illustrating the corner display area and the middle display area according to an alternative embodiment;

[0072] Figure 22 This is an enlarged view of a portion of the display panel according to an alternative embodiment;

[0073] Figure 23 This is a plan view of the corner display area according to an alternative embodiment;

[0074] Figure 24 It is along Figure 22 A cross-sectional view taken from line XXIV-XXIV';

[0075] Figure 25 It is along Figure 23 A cross-sectional view of line XXV-XXV'; and

[0076] Figure 26 It is along Figure 23 The cross-sectional view taken from line XXVI-XXVI'. Detailed Implementation

[0077] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals always refer to the same elements. In this respect, the embodiments described herein may take different forms and should not be construed as limited to the description set forth herein. Therefore, the embodiments are described below only with reference to the accompanying drawings to explain the aspects described.

[0078] As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Throughout this disclosure, the expression “at least one of a, b, and c” indicates only a, only b, only c, both a and b, both a and c, both b and c, all of a, b, and c, or variations thereof.

[0079] Because this disclosure allows for various variations and numerous embodiments, specific embodiments will be illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the written description. The effects and features of one or more embodiments, as well as methods for achieving those effects and features, will become apparent from the following detailed description of one or more embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, this disclosure may take different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0080] Reference will now be made in detail to the embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which the same elements are indicated by the same reference numerals, and therefore any repeated detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0081] Although terms such as "first" and "second" can be used to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another.

[0082] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, “a,” “the,” and “at least one” do not indicate a limitation on quantity but are intended to include both the singular and the plural unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. For example, “an element” has the same meaning as “at least one element” unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. “At least one” will not be construed as limited to “a.” “Or” means “and / or.” As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0083] It will be further understood that, when used in this specification, the terms “comprising” and / or “including” indicate the presence of the stated features, areas, integrals, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, areas, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof.

[0084] It will be further understood that when a layer, region, or component is referred to as being "on" another layer, region, or component, it can be directly on another layer, region, or component, or it can be indirectly on another layer, region, or component, with intermediate layers, regions, or components in between.

[0085] For ease of illustration, the size of the elements in the accompanying drawings may be exaggerated or reduced. For example, because the size and thickness of the elements in the accompanying drawings are arbitrarily illustrated for ease of illustration, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0086] When a particular embodiment can be implemented differently, the specific process sequence may differ from the described sequence. For example, two consecutively described processes may be executed substantially simultaneously, or in the reverse order of their description.

[0087] It will be understood that when a layer, region, or element is referred to as a "connection," that layer, region, or element can be directly connected to or indirectly connected to intermediate layers, regions, or elements between them. For example, when a layer, region, or element is referred to as an "electrical connection," it can be directly electrically connected to or indirectly electrically connected to intermediate layers, regions, or elements between them.

[0088] Unless otherwise specified, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It will be further understood that terms such as those defined in common dictionaries shall be interpreted as having the same meaning as they have in the relevant field and in the context of this disclosure, and not in an idealized or overly formal sense, unless expressly so defined herein.

[0089] The embodiments described herein are illustrated in cross-sectional views with reference to schematic diagrams of idealized embodiments. Therefore, variations in the illustrated shapes can be expected due to factors such as manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Consequently, the embodiments described herein should not be construed as limited to the specific shapes of the regions illustrated herein, but will include shape deviations, for example, due to manufacturing processes. For instance, regions illustrated or described as flat may generally have rough and / or non-linear characteristics. Furthermore, acute angles in the illustrations may be rounded. Therefore, the regions illustrated in the figures are schematic in nature, and their shapes are not intended to illustrate the precise shapes of the regions, nor are they intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0090] In the following, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0091] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the display device 1 according to an embodiment. Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2C This is a cross-sectional view of the display device 1 according to an embodiment. Figure 2A It is display device 1 in Figure 1 A cross-sectional view along the y-direction. Figure 2B It is display device 1 in Figure 1 A cross-sectional view in the x-direction. Figure 2C This is a cross-sectional view of the corner display area CDA on the opposite side of the front display area FDA in the illustrated display device 1.

[0092] refer to Figure 1 and Figures 2A to 2C Embodiments of the display device 1 for displaying moving or still images can be used not only as displays for portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, smartphones, tablet PCs (“PCs”), mobile communication terminals, electronic notebooks, e-books, portable multimedia players (“PMPs”), navigation devices, or ultra-mobile PCs (“UMPCs”), but also as displays for any of a variety of products such as televisions, laptops, monitors, billboards, or Internet of Things (“IoT”) products. Embodiments of the display device 1 can be used in wearable devices such as smartwatches, watch phones, glasses displays, or head-mounted displays (“HMDs”). Embodiments of the display device 1 can be used as a central information display (“CID”) located on a vehicle’s dashboard, center console, or instrument panel; an interior mirror display replacing a vehicle’s side mirrors; or a display located on the back of the front seats for rear-seat entertainment.

[0093] In an embodiment, the display device 1 may have a long side in a first direction and a short side in a second direction. The first and second directions may intersect each other. In one embodiment, for example, an acute angle may be formed between the first and second directions. Alternatively, an obtuse or right angle may be formed between the first and second directions. Hereinafter, for ease of description, embodiments in which a right angle is formed between the first direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction) and the second direction (e.g., the x-direction and the -x-direction) will be described in detail.

[0094] In one embodiment, the length of the side of the display device 1 in the first direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction) and the length of the side of the display device 1 in the second direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) may be the same as each other. In an alternative embodiment, the display device 1 may have a short side in the first direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction) and a long side in the second direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction).

[0095] In an embodiment, the corner where the long side in the first direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction) and the short side in the second direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) meet each other can be rounded to have a specific curvature.

[0096] In one embodiment, the display device 1 may include a display panel 10 and a cover window CW. In such an embodiment, the cover window CW can protect the display panel 10.

[0097] The cover window CW can be a flexible window. The cover window CW can protect the display panel 10 by being easily bent by external forces without cracking. The cover window CW can include glass, sapphire, or plastic. The cover window CW can include, for example, ultra-thin glass (“UTG”) or colorless polyimide (“CPI”). In embodiments, the cover window CW can have a structure in which a flexible polymer layer is located on the surface of a glass substrate, or it can consist only of a polymer layer.

[0098] Display panel 10 can be located below the overlay window CW. Although in Figures 1 to 2C Although not shown, the display panel 10 can be attached to the cover window CW by a transparent adhesive member such as optical adhesive (“OCA”).

[0099] In an embodiment, the display panel 10 may include a display area DA for displaying an image and a peripheral area PA surrounding the display area DA. The display area DA may include a plurality of pixels PX, and an image may be displayed through the plurality of pixels PX. Each of the plurality of pixels PX may include a subpixel. In one embodiment, for example, each of the plurality of pixels PX may include a red subpixel, a green subpixel, and a blue subpixel. Alternatively, each of the plurality of pixels PX may include a red subpixel, a green subpixel, a blue subpixel, and a white subpixel.

[0100] In an embodiment, such as Figure 1 As shown, the display area DA may include a front display area FDA, a side display area SDA, a corner display area CDA, and a central display area MDA. Multiple pixels PX located within the display area DA can display an image. In one embodiment, the pixels PX of the front display area FDA, the side display area SDA, the corner display area CDA, and the central display area MDA can each provide an independent image. In an alternative embodiment, the pixels PX of the front display area FDA, the side display area SDA, the corner display area CDA, and the central display area MDA can each provide a portion of an image.

[0101] The front display area FDA of a planar display area may include a first pixel PX1, and the first pixel PX1 includes a first display element. In an embodiment, the front display area FDA can provide a main image.

[0102] Pixels PX, including display elements, can be located in the side display area SDA. Therefore, the side display area SDA can display images. In an embodiment, the side display area SDA may include a first side display area SDA1, a second side display area SDA2, a third side display area SDA3, and a fourth side display area SDA4. In an alternative embodiment, at least one of the first side display area SDA1, the second side display area SDA2, the third side display area SDA3, and the fourth side display area SDA4 may be omitted.

[0103] The first side display area SDA1 and the third side display area SDA3 can be connected to the front display area FDA in a first direction (e.g., the y direction or the -y direction). In one embodiment, for example, the first side display area SDA1 can be connected from the front display area FDA in the -y direction, and the third side display area SDA3 can be connected from the front display area FDA in the y direction.

[0104] Each of the first side display area SDA1 and the third side display area SDA3 can be bent by a radius of curvature. In an embodiment, the radii of curvature of the first side display area SDA1 and the third side display area SDA3 can be different from each other. In an alternative embodiment, the radii of curvature of the first side display area SDA1 and the third side display area SDA3 can be the same as each other. For ease of description, an embodiment in which the first side display area SDA1 and the third side display area SDA3 have the same radius of curvature (which is a first radius of curvature R1) will be described in detail. In the following, because the first side display area SDA1 and the third side display area SDA3 are the same or similar to each other, the first side display area SDA1 will be described primarily, and any repeated detailed description of the third side display area SDA3 may be omitted.

[0105] The second side display area SDA2 and the fourth side display area SDA4 can be connected to the front display area FDA in a second direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction). In one embodiment, for example, the second side display area SDA2 can be connected from the front display area FDA in the -x-direction, and the fourth side display area SDA4 can be connected from the front display area FDA in the x-direction. In this document, the z-direction, perpendicular to the first and second directions (or the y-direction and the x-direction), can be the thickness direction of the display panel 10.

[0106] The second side display area SDA2 and the fourth side display area SDA4 can be curved by a radius of curvature. In an embodiment, the radii of curvature of the second side display area SDA2 and the fourth side display area SDA4 can be different from each other. In an alternative embodiment, the radii of curvature of the second side display area SDA2 and the fourth side display area SDA4 can be the same as each other. For ease of description, an embodiment in which the second side display area SDA2 and the fourth side display area SDA4 have the same radius of curvature (which is the second radius of curvature R2) will be described in detail. In the following, because the second side display area SDA2 and the fourth side display area SDA4 are the same or similar to each other, the second side display area SDA2 will be described primarily, and any repeated detailed description of the fourth side display area SDA4 may be omitted.

[0107] In an embodiment, the first radius of curvature R1 of the first side display area SDA1 may be different from the second radius of curvature R2 of the second side display area SDA2. In one embodiment, for example, the first radius of curvature R1 may be smaller than the second radius of curvature R2. Alternatively, the first radius of curvature R1 may be larger than the second radius of curvature R2. In an alternative embodiment, the first radius of curvature R1 of the first side display area SDA1 may be the same as the second radius of curvature R2 of the second side display area SDA2. For ease of description, embodiments in which the first radius of curvature R1 is larger than the second radius of curvature R2 will be described in detail.

[0108] The corner display area CDA can be located at the corner of the front display area FDA and can be bent. In such an embodiment, the corner display area CDA can be positioned to correspond to the corner portion CP. The corner portion CP of the corner of the display area DA can be the portion where the long side of the display area DA in a first direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction) and the short side of the display area DA in a second direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction) meet each other. In such an embodiment, the corner display area CDA can be located between adjacent side display areas SDA. In one embodiment, for example, the corner display area CDA can be located between the first side display area SDA1 and the second side display area SDA2. Alternatively, the corner display area CDA can be located between the second side display area SDA2 and the third side display area SDA3, between the third side display area SDA3 and the fourth side display area SDA4, or between the fourth side display area SDA4 and the first side display area SDA1. Therefore, the side display areas SDA and the corner display area CDA can surround the front display area FDA and can be bent.

[0109] The second pixel PX2, including the second display element, can be located in the corner display area CDA. Therefore, the corner display area CDA can display an image.

[0110] In embodiments where the first radius of curvature R1 of the first side display area SDA1 and the second radius of curvature R2 of the second side display area SDA2 are different from each other, the radius of curvature of the corner display area CDA can be gradually changed. In embodiments where the first radius of curvature R1 of the first side display area SDA1 is greater than the second radius of curvature R2 of the second side display area SDA2, the radius of curvature of the corner display area CDA can be gradually decreased in the direction from the first side display area SDA1 to the second side display area SDA2. In one embodiment, for example, the third radius of curvature R3 of the corner display area CDA can be smaller than the first radius of curvature R1 and larger than the second radius of curvature R2.

[0111] In one embodiment, the display panel 10 may further include a central display area MDA. The central display area MDA may be located between a corner display area CDA and a front display area FDA. In another embodiment, the central display area MDA may extend between a side display area SDA and a corner display area CDA. In one embodiment, for example, the central display area MDA may extend between a first side display area SDA1 and a corner display area CDA. In such an embodiment, the central display area MDA may extend between a second side display area SDA2 and a corner display area CDA.

[0112] The intermediate display area MDA may include a third pixel PX3. In one embodiment, a driving circuit for applying an electrical signal or a power line for supplying voltage may be located in the intermediate display area MDA, and the third pixel PX3 may overlap with the driving circuit or the power line. In such an embodiment, the third display element of the third pixel PX3 may be located above the driving circuit or the power line. In another embodiment, the driving circuit or the power line may be located in the peripheral area PA, and the third pixel PX3 may not overlap with the driving circuit or the power line.

[0113] In an embodiment, such as Figures 1 to 2C As shown, the display device 1 can display images in the side display area SDA, the corner display area CDA, the central display area MDA, and the front display area FDA. Therefore, the proportion of the display area DA in the display device 1 can be increased. In such an embodiment, because the display device 1 includes a corner display area CDA that is bent at the corner and displays images, aesthetics can be enhanced.

[0114] Figure 3 This is an equivalent circuit diagram of the pixel circuit PC applicable to a display panel. Figure 4A This is a schematic plan view of the display panel 10 according to an embodiment. Figure 4B yes Figure 4A Enlarged view of the circled part. Figure 4A This is a plan view illustrating the shape of the display panel 10 before the corner display area CDA is bent.

[0115] Embodiments of the display panel 10 may include display elements. In one embodiment, for example, the display panel 10 may be an organic light-emitting display panel using organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) including organic emission layers, a micro light-emitting diode display panel using micro light-emitting diodes (“LEDs”), a quantum dot light-emitting display panel using quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QLEDs) including quantum dot emission layers, or an inorganic light-emitting display panel using inorganic light-emitting devices including inorganic semiconductors. Hereinafter, for ease of description, an embodiment of the display panel 10 as an organic light-emitting display panel using organic light-emitting diodes as display elements will be described in detail.

[0116] refer to Figure 3 In one embodiment, the pixel circuit PC can be connected to a display element, such as an organic light-emitting diode (OLED).

[0117] In an embodiment, the pixel circuit PC may include a driving thin-film transistor T1, a switching thin-film transistor T2, and a storage capacitor Cst. An organic light-emitting diode (OLED) may emit red, green, or blue light, or may emit red, green, blue, or white light.

[0118] The switching thin-film transistor T2 can be connected to the scan line SL and the data line DL, and can transmit the data signal or data voltage input from the data line DL to the driving thin-film transistor T1 based on the scan signal or switching voltage input from the scan line SL. The storage capacitor Cst can be connected to the switching thin-film transistor T2 and the driving voltage line PL, and can store a voltage corresponding to the difference between the voltage received from the switching thin-film transistor T2 and the first power supply voltage ELVDD supplied to the driving voltage line PL.

[0119] The driving thin-film transistor T1 can be connected to the driving voltage line PL and the storage capacitor Cst, and can control the driving current flowing from the driving voltage line PL through the organic light-emitting diode (OLED) in response to the value of the voltage stored in the storage capacitor Cst. The OLED can emit light with a specific brightness according to the driving current. The counter electrode (e.g., cathode) of the OLED can receive a second power supply voltage ELVSS.

[0120] Figure 3 An embodiment of a pixel circuit PC comprising two thin-film transistors and a single storage capacitor is shown, but is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the number of thin-film transistors and the number of storage capacitors can be modified in various ways depending on the design of the pixel circuit PC. In one embodiment, for example, the pixel circuit PC may include three, four, five, or more thin-film transistors.

[0121] refer to Figure 4A and Figure 4B The display panel 10 may include a display area DA and a peripheral area PA. The display area DA may be an area for displaying an image using multiple pixels PX, and the peripheral area PA may at least partially surround the display area DA. The display area DA may include a front display area FDA, a side display area SDA, a corner display area CDA, and a central display area MDA.

[0122] Each pixel (PX) can include subpixels, and subpixels can emit light of a specific color by using organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) as display elements. Each OLED can emit, for example, red, green, or blue light. Each OLED can be connected to pixel circuitry, which includes thin-film transistors and storage capacitors.

[0123] In one embodiment, the display panel 10 may include a substrate 100 and multiple layers located on the substrate 100. In such an embodiment, a display area DA and a peripheral area PA may be defined on the substrate 100 and / or the multiple layers. In such an embodiment, the substrate 100 and / or the multiple layers may include a front display area FDA, a side display area SDA, a corner display area CDA, a center display area MDA, and a peripheral area PA.

[0124] The substrate 100 may comprise glass or a polymeric resin such as polyethersulfone, polyarylate, polyetherimide, polyethylene naphthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyphenylene sulfide, polyimide, polycarbonate, cellulose triacetate, or cellulose acetate propionate. The substrate 100 comprising the polymeric resin may be flexible, rollable, or bendable. The substrate 100 may have a multilayer structure comprising a base layer and a barrier layer (not shown), the base layer comprising the polymeric resin.

[0125] The peripheral region PA can be a non-display area where an image is not provided. A drive circuit DC for applying electrical signals or power wiring for supplying power to pixels PX can be located in the peripheral region PA. A drive circuit DC for applying electrical signals to each pixel PX via signal lines can also be located in the peripheral region PA. In one embodiment, for example, the drive circuit DC can be a scan drive circuit for applying scan signals to each pixel PX via scan lines SL. Alternatively, the drive circuit DC can be a data drive circuit (not shown) for applying data signals to each pixel PX via data lines DL. In an embodiment, the data drive circuit can be located near one side of the display panel 10. In one embodiment, for example, the data drive circuit in the peripheral region PA can be positioned corresponding to the first side display area SDA1.

[0126] The peripheral area PA may include pad units (not shown) to which electronic devices or printed circuit boards can be electrically connected. The pad units may be exposed without being covered by an insulating layer and may be electrically connected to a flexible printed circuit board (“FPCB”). The flexible printed circuit board may electrically connect a controller and the pad units and may apply signals or power transmitted from the controller. In an embodiment, data driving circuitry may be located on the flexible printed circuit board.

[0127] The first pixel PX1, including the first display element, may be located within the front display area FDA. The front display area FDA may be a flat portion. In an embodiment, the front display area FDA may provide the main image.

[0128] The pixels PX, including the display element, can be located in the side display area SDA, and the side display area SDA can be bent. In an embodiment, the side display area SDA can be as shown in the reference... Figure 1 The portion of the front display area FDA that is curved is described. In an embodiment, the side display area SDA may have a width that gradually decreases with distance from the front display area FDA. In an embodiment, the side display area SDA may include a first side display area SDA1, a second side display area SDA2, a third side display area SDA3, and a fourth side display area SDA4.

[0129] In one embodiment, the first side display area SDA1 and the third side display area SDA3 may be connected to the front display area FDA in a first direction (e.g., the y-direction or the -y-direction). In such an embodiment, the second side display area SDA2 and the fourth side display area SDA4 may be connected to the front display area FDA in a second direction (e.g., the x-direction or the -x-direction).

[0130] The corner display area CDA can be located between adjacent side display areas SDA. In one embodiment, for example, the corner display area CDA can be located between the first side display area SDA1 and the second side display area SDA2. Alternatively, the corner display area CDA can be located between the second side display area SDA2 and the third side display area SDA3, between the third side display area SDA3 and the fourth side display area SDA4, or between the fourth side display area SDA4 and the first side display area SDA1. The corner display area CDA located between the first side display area SDA1 and the second side display area SDA2 will be described in detail below.

[0131] The corner display area CDA can be positioned to correspond to the corner portion CP of the display area DA. The corner portion CP of the display area DA can be the part where the long side of the display area DA in a first direction (e.g., the y direction or the -y direction) and the short side of the display area DA in a second direction (e.g., the x direction or the -x direction) meet each other.

[0132] In such an embodiment, the corner display area CDA may surround at least a portion of the front display area FDA. In one embodiment, for example, the corner display area CDA may be located between the first side display area SDA1 and the second side display area SDA2, and may at least partially surround the front display area FDA.

[0133] In one embodiment, the second pixel PX2, including the display element, can be located in the corner display area CDA, and the corner display area CDA can be curved. In such an embodiment, the corner display area CDA can be positioned to correspond to the corner portion CP, and can be as referenced. Figure 1 The FDA-represented area is curved as described.

[0134] The intermediate display area MDA can be located between the front display area FDA and the corner display area CDA. In one embodiment, the intermediate display area MDA can extend between the side display area SDA and the corner display area CDA. In one embodiment, for example, the intermediate display area MDA can extend between a first side display area SDA1 and the corner display area CDA and / or between a second side display area SDA2 and the corner display area CDA. In one embodiment, the intermediate display area MDA can be bent.

[0135] In one embodiment, the third pixel PX3, including the display element, may be located within the intermediate display area MDA. In such an embodiment, a driving circuit DC for applying electrical signals or power wiring (not shown) for applying voltage may also be located within the intermediate display area MDA. In another embodiment, the driving circuit DC may traverse the intermediate display area MDA and may be connected to the peripheral area PA. In yet another embodiment, the third pixel PX3 located within the intermediate display area MDA may overlap with the driving circuit DC or the power wiring. In an alternative embodiment, the third pixel PX3 may not overlap with the driving circuit DC or the power wiring. In such an embodiment, the driving circuit DC may be positioned along the peripheral area PA.

[0136] In an embodiment, at least one of the side display area SDA, the corner display area CDA, and the middle display area MDA can be bent. In such an embodiment, a first side display area SDA1 of the side display area SDA can be bent with a first radius of curvature, and a second side display area SDA2 of the side display area SDA can be bent with a second radius of curvature. In such an embodiment, where the first radius of curvature is greater than the second radius of curvature, the radius of curvature of the corner display area CDA can gradually decrease in the direction from the first side display area SDA1 to the second side display area SDA2.

[0137] In embodiments where the corner display area CDA is bent, the compressive strain may be greater than the tensile strain in the corner display area CDA. In such embodiments, a shrinkable substrate and a shrinkable multilayer structure may need to be applied to the corner display area CDA. Therefore, the shape of the stacked structure of multiple layers in the corner display area CDA or the shape of the substrate 100 may differ from the shape of the stacked structure of multiple layers in the front display area FDA or the shape of the substrate 100.

[0138] In one embodiment, the corner display area CDA may include a plurality of extended areas extending from the intermediate display area MDA, and a through-portion may be provided between adjacent extended areas. In an alternative embodiment, the corner display area CDA may include a pixel arrangement area in which the second pixel PX2 is located and a connection area for connecting the pixel arrangement area to the intermediate display area MDA, and adjacent pixel arrangement areas and adjacent connection areas may define a through-portion. This will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0139] Figures 5A to 5C This is an enlarged view of a portion of the display panel according to an embodiment.

[0140] refer to Figures 5A to 5C An embodiment of the display panel may include a display area and a peripheral area PA, and the display area may include a front display area FDA, a first side display area SDA1 and a second side display area SDA2, a corner display area CDA and a middle display area MDA.

[0141] The first pixel PX1 can be located in the front display area FDA, the second pixel PX2 can be located in the corner display area CDA, and the third pixel PX3 can be located in the middle display area MDA. Figures 5A to 5C In the illustrated embodiment, the second pixel PX2 and the third pixel PX3 may be the same size, and the first pixel PX1 and the third pixel PX3 may be different sizes. In another embodiment, the first pixel PX1 to the third pixel PX3 may be the same size. In an alternative embodiment, the first pixel PX1 to the third pixel PX3 may be different sizes. In another alternative embodiment, one of the first pixel PX1, the second pixel PX2, and the third pixel PX3 may be the same as another of the first pixel PX1, the second pixel PX2, and the third pixel PX3.

[0142] In one embodiment, the corner display area CDA may include multiple extended areas LA extending from the central display area MDA. In such an embodiment, the multiple extended areas LA may extend away from the front display area FDA. In one embodiment, the second pixel PX2 may be located in each of the multiple extended areas LA. (See reference...) Figure 5A and Figure 5B The second pixel, PX2, can be aligned in the direction of the extension of the extended region LA. (Reference) Figure 5C The second pixel PX2 can be arranged along multiple lines in the direction of the extension region LA. In the following description, for ease of explanation, an embodiment in which the second pixel PX2 is aligned in the direction of the extension region LA will be described in detail.

[0143] In such an embodiment, a through portion PNP can be defined or provided between adjacent extended regions LA. Therefore, a blank space can be defined between adjacent extended regions LA.

[0144] refer to Figure 5A In one embodiment, the width of the through-portion PNP can increase in the direction from the central display area MDA to the ends of the plurality of extension areas LA. That is, the width of the through-portion PNP can increase with distance from the front display area FDA. In such an embodiment, the width of the through-portion PNP refers to the distance between adjacent extension areas LA. That is, the plurality of extension areas LA can be arranged radially.

[0145] In one embodiment, for example, the first width dis1 of the through portion PNP at the end portion of the extension region LA may be greater than the second width dis2 of the through portion PNP at the middle portion between the end portion of the extension region LA and the intermediate display region MDA. In another embodiment, adjacent extension regions LA may be integrally provided at the junction of the extension region LA and the intermediate display region MDA.

[0146] refer to Figure 5B In an alternative embodiment, the width of the through portion PNP can be constant in the direction from the central display area MDA to the end portion of the extension area LA. In such an embodiment, multiple extension areas LA can extend from the central display area MDA in the same direction (or parallel to each other).

[0147] The peripheral region PA can secure the end portions of multiple extension regions LA. Therefore, multiple extension regions LA can be secured by the peripheral region PA. In an embodiment, power wiring and / or drive circuitry can be located within the peripheral region PA. In an embodiment, the peripheral region PA can be spaced apart from each other to correspond to each of the multiple extension regions LA. In such an embodiment, the through portion PNP can extend to the peripheral region PA between adjacent extension regions LA.

[0148] Figure 6A and Figure 6B This is a plan view of one of the extended regions LA according to an embodiment.

[0149] refer to Figure 6A In one embodiment, the corner display area CDA may include a plurality of extension areas LA extending from the intermediate display area MDA, and a through portion may be provided between adjacent extension areas LA. In such an embodiment, a second pixel PX2 including a second display element may be located in the extension area LA, and a third pixel PX3 including a third display element may be located in the intermediate display area MDA.

[0150] The display panel may include a recess Gv located on a substrate. The recess Gv may be recessed (or sunken) in the thickness direction of the substrate. In this embodiment, at least one recess Gv may be located in an extension region LA. In one embodiment, for example, the recess Gv may include a first recess Gv1, a second recess Gv2, and a third recess Gv3. In such an embodiment, the first recess Gv1 and the second recess Gv2 may be located in the extension region LA, and the second recess Gv2 may surround the first recess Gv1. The third recess Gv3 may be spaced apart from the extension region LA. The third recess Gv3 may extend along a corner display region CDA. In an embodiment, the third recess Gv3 may extend in one direction.

[0151] At least one notch Gv may surround a second pixel PX2. In one embodiment, for example, a first notch Gv1 and a second notch Gv2 may surround a plurality of second pixels PX2. In such an embodiment, the first notch Gv1 and the second notch Gv2 may surround a second display element. Alternatively, the first notch Gv1 may surround each of the second pixels PX2 individually.

[0152] In an embodiment, the inorganic patterned layer PVX2 may be located on opposite sides of the groove Gv and may include a pair of protruding tips projecting toward the center of the groove Gv. The inorganic patterned layer PVX2 is composed of... Figure 6A and Figure 6B The dashed lines in the diagram indicate this.

[0153] In such an embodiment, at least one of the groove Gv and the inorganic patterned layer PVX2 including the protruding tip can be located in the extended region LA. When the second display element included in the second pixel PX2 is an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), the second display element may include a pixel electrode, an intermediate layer including an emission layer, and a counter electrode 213. In such an embodiment, the intermediate layer may include a first functional layer between the pixel electrode and the emission layer and / or a second functional layer between the emission layer and the counter electrode 213. The first and second functional layers may be completely formed over the extended region LA and the intermediate display region MDA. The first and second functional layers may each include organic materials, and external oxygen or moisture can be introduced into the intermediate display region MDA and the extended region LA through the first and second functional layers. External oxygen or moisture may damage the OLED inside the intermediate display region MDA and the extended region LA. In an embodiment, the first and second functional layers may be separated (or disconnected) by the groove Gv and the protruding tip, and external moisture and oxygen can be prevented from being introduced into the OLED. Therefore, damage to the OLED can be effectively prevented.

[0154] The display panel may include a dam-shaped portion DP located on a substrate. The dam-shaped portion DP may protrude in the thickness direction of the substrate. In an embodiment, at least one dam-shaped portion DP may be located in an extension region LA. In one embodiment, for example, the dam-shaped portion DP may include a first dam-shaped portion DP1 and a second dam-shaped portion DP2. In such an embodiment, the first dam-shaped portion DP1 may be located in the extension region LA, and the second dam-shaped portion DP2 may be spaced apart from the extension region LA. The second dam-shaped portion DP2 may extend along a corner display region CDA.

[0155] At least one dam-shaped portion DP may surround the second pixel PX2. That is, at least one dam-shaped portion DP may surround the second display element. In one embodiment, for example, a first dam-shaped portion DP1 may surround a plurality of second pixels PX2. In such an embodiment, the first dam-shaped portion DP1 may be located between a first recess Gv1 and a second recess Gv2.

[0156] In one embodiment, at least one dam-shaped portion DP may be located in the extended region LA. In such an embodiment, when the second display element included in the second pixel PX2 is an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), as described above, the OLED may be susceptible to the effects of oxygen and moisture. Therefore, a thin-film encapsulation layer for encapsulating the OLED may be located on the second pixel PX2. In such an embodiment, the thin-film encapsulation layer may include at least one inorganic encapsulation layer and at least one organic encapsulation layer. In such an embodiment, the dam-shaped portion DP protrudes in the thickness direction of the substrate, such that the dam-shaped portion DP can control the flow of at least one organic encapsulation layer. In such an embodiment, the dam-shaped portion DP may separate at least one organic encapsulation layer. In such an embodiment, at least one organic encapsulation layer may fill the first groove Gv1 and the third groove Gv3.

[0157] In an embodiment, the contact hole CNT can be defined as penetrating at least one of a plurality of layers stacked in the extension region LA at the end portion of the extension region LA. In such an embodiment, the contact hole CNT can be located inside the first recess Gv1. That is, the contact hole CNT can be surrounded by the first recess Gv1. The contact hole CNT can be located between the first recess Gv1 and the second pixel PX2 furthest from the intermediate display region MDA. In an embodiment, the counter electrode 213 can also be formed completely above the extension region LA and the intermediate display region MDA, just like the first functional layer or the second functional layer. In such an embodiment, the counter electrode 213 can be separated by the recess Gv. Therefore, the connection wiring CL for supplying power can be located in the extension region LA, and the connection wiring CL can supply the second power supply voltage ELVSS (see contact hole CNT) to the second pixel PX2. Figure 3 ).

[0158] refer to Figure 6B In an alternative embodiment, the groove Gv may further include a fourth groove Gv4. The fourth groove Gv4 may be located in the extension region LA and may surround the second groove Gv2.

[0159] The dam-shaped portion DP may further include a third dam-shaped portion DP3. The third dam-shaped portion DP3 may surround the first dam-shaped portion DP1. In an embodiment, the third dam-shaped portion DP3 may be located between the second groove Gv2 and the fourth groove Gv4. Thus, in an embodiment, the dam-shaped portion DP and the groove Gv may be arranged alternately. In an alternative embodiment, the groove Gv may be positioned continuously, or the dam-shaped portion DP may be positioned continuously.

[0160] For ease of description, the following text will be described in detail as follows: Figure 6A The groove Gv shown includes a first groove Gv1, a second groove Gv2 and a third groove Gv3, and the dam-shaped portion DP includes an embodiment of a first dam-shaped portion DP1 and a second dam-shaped portion DP2.

[0161] Figure 7A and Figure 7B This is a plan view illustrating the sub-pixel arrangement structure of the extended region LA according to an embodiment. Figure 7A and Figure 7B In, with Figure 6A The same elements are indicated by the same reference numerals, and therefore any repeated detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0162] refer to Figure 7A and Figure 7B In one embodiment, the corner display area CDA may include a plurality of extension areas LA extending from the intermediate display area MDA, and a through portion may be provided between adjacent extension areas LA. In such an embodiment, a second pixel PX2 including a second display element may be located in the extension area LA, and a third pixel PX3 including a third display element may be located in the intermediate display area MDA.

[0163] Multiple second pixels PX2 can be provided in the extended region LA. In such an embodiment, the multiple second pixels PX2 can be positioned parallel to each other along the extension direction EDR of the extended region LA.

[0164] In one embodiment, a plurality of third pixels PX3 may be provided in the central display area MDA. In another embodiment, the plurality of third pixels PX3 may be arranged along the extending direction EDR. In such an embodiment, the plurality of third pixels PX3 may be arranged parallel to the plurality of second pixels PX2.

[0165] Each of the second pixel PX2 and the third pixel PX3 may include a red subpixel Pr, a green subpixel Pg, and a blue subpixel Pb. The red subpixel Pr, green subpixel Pg, and blue subpixel Pb may emit red light, green light, and blue light, respectively. As used herein, the term 'subpixel' refers to the emitting region that is the smallest unit for forming an image. In embodiments where the display element includes an organic light-emitting diode, the emitting region may be defined by an opening in a pixel-defining film, as will be described below.

[0166] refer to Figure 7A In one embodiment, the red sub-pixel Pr, green sub-pixel Pg, and blue sub-pixel Pb can be provided in a stripe structure. In such an embodiment, the red sub-pixel Pr, green sub-pixel Pg, and blue sub-pixel Pb can be positioned parallel to each other in a vertical direction VDR perpendicular to the extension direction EDR. In such an embodiment, the red sub-pixel Pr, green sub-pixel Pg, and blue sub-pixel Pb can each be positioned parallel to each other in the extension direction EDR. In such an embodiment, each of the red sub-pixel Pr, green sub-pixel Pg, and blue sub-pixel Pb can have a long side in the extension direction EDR.

[0167] Alternatively, the red sub-pixel Pr, green sub-pixel Pg, and blue sub-pixel Pb can be positioned parallel to each other in the extension direction EDR. In such an embodiment, each of the red sub-pixel Pr, green sub-pixel Pg, and blue sub-pixel Pb can have a long side in the vertical direction VDR.

[0168] In an embodiment, the red sub-pixel Pr, green sub-pixel Pg, and blue sub-pixel Pb of the third pixel PX3 can be positioned parallel to the red sub-pixel Pr, green sub-pixel Pg, and blue sub-pixel Pb of the second pixel PX2, respectively.

[0169] refer to Figure 7B In an alternative embodiment, the subpixel arrangement structure of the second pixel PX2 and the subpixel arrangement structure of the third pixel PX3 can be an S-striped structure. Each of the second pixel PX2 and the third pixel PX3 may include a red subpixel Pr, a green subpixel Pg, and a blue subpixel Pb.

[0170] In such an embodiment, the green sub-pixel Pg can be located in the first column 1l, and the red sub-pixel Pr and the blue sub-pixel Pb can be located in the second column 2l adjacent to the first column 1l. In such an embodiment, the green sub-pixel Pg can have a quadrilateral shape with a long side in the vertical direction VDR, and the red sub-pixel Pr and the blue sub-pixel Pb can also have quadrilateral shapes. In such an embodiment, one side of the red sub-pixel Pr and one side of the blue sub-pixel Pb can face the long side of the green sub-pixel Pg.

[0171] In another alternative embodiment, the subpixel arrangement structure of each of the second pixel PX2 and the third pixel PX3 can be a pentile structure.

[0172] Figure 8A This is a cross-sectional view of the front display area FDA according to an embodiment. Figure 8B yes Figure 8A Enlarged view of the circled part.

[0173] refer to Figure 8A and Figure 8B An embodiment of the display panel may include a substrate 100, a buffer layer 111, a pixel circuit layer PCL, a display element layer DEL, and a thin film encapsulation layer TFE.

[0174] The buffer layer 111 may be located on the substrate 100. The buffer layer 111 may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, or silicon oxide, and may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure including the above inorganic insulating material.

[0175] The pixel circuit layer PCL may be located on the buffer layer 111. The pixel circuit layer PCL may include a first thin film transistor TFT1, an inorganic insulating layer IIL located below and / or above the elements of the first thin film transistor TFT1, a first planarization layer 115, and a second planarization layer 116. The inorganic insulating layer IIL may include a first gate insulating layer 112, a second gate insulating layer 113, and an interlayer insulating layer 114.

[0176] In one embodiment, the first thin-film transistor TFT1 may include a semiconductor layer Act, and the semiconductor layer Act may include polycrystalline silicon. Alternatively, the semiconductor layer Act may include amorphous silicon, oxide semiconductor, or organic semiconductor. The semiconductor layer Act may include a channel region and drain and source regions located on opposite sides of the channel region. The gate electrode GE may overlap with the channel region.

[0177] The gate electrode GE may include a low-resistance metallic material. The gate electrode GE may include a conductive material comprising molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), or titanium (Ti), and may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure comprising the above conductive materials.

[0178] The first gate insulating layer 112 between the semiconductor layer Act and the gate electrode GE may include materials such as silicon oxide (SiO2) and silicon nitride (SiN). X Inorganic insulating materials made of silicon oxynitride (SiON), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), hafnium oxide (HfO2), or zinc oxide (ZnO).

[0179] The second gate insulating layer 113 may cover the gate electrode GE. The second gate insulating layer 113 may include materials such as silicon oxide (SiO2) and silicon nitride (SiN). X Inorganic insulating materials such as silicon oxynitride (SiON), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), hafnium oxide (HfO2), or zinc oxide (ZnO) may be included, and may include the same material as the first gate insulating layer 112.

[0180] The upper electrode CE2 of the storage capacitor Cst can be located above the second gate insulating layer 113. The upper electrode CE2 can overlap with the gate electrode GE located below the upper electrode CE2. In such an embodiment, the gate electrode GE and the upper electrode CE2, which overlap each other and are separated by the second gate insulating layer 113, can constitute the storage capacitor Cst. In such an embodiment, the gate electrode GE can be used as the lower electrode CE1 of the storage capacitor Cst.

[0181] In such an embodiment, the storage capacitor Cst and the first thin-film transistor TFT1 may overlap each other. In an alternative embodiment, the storage capacitor Cst may not overlap with the first thin-film transistor TFT1.

[0182] The upper electrode CE2 may include aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), calcium (Ca), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tungsten (W) and / or copper (Cu), and may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure including the above materials.

[0183] Interlayer insulating layer 114 may cover the upper electrode CE2. Interlayer insulating layer 114 may include materials such as silicon oxide (SiO2) and silicon nitride (SiN). X Inorganic insulating materials such as silicon oxynitride (SiON), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), hafnium oxide (HfO2), or zinc oxide (ZnO). The interlayer insulating layer 114 may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure including the above inorganic insulating materials.

[0184] Each of the drain electrode DE and the source electrode SE may be located on the interlayer insulating layer 114. Each of the drain electrode DE and the source electrode SE may include a material with high conductivity. Each of the drain electrode DE and the source electrode SE may include a conductive material comprising molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), or titanium (Ti), and may have a single-layer structure or a multilayer structure comprising the above conductive materials. In an embodiment, each of the drain electrode DE and the source electrode SE may have a multilayer structure comprising Ti / Al / Ti.

[0185] The first planarization layer 115 may cover the drain electrode DE and the source electrode SE. The first planarization layer 115 may include an organic insulating layer. The first planarization layer 115 may include an organic insulating material such as a general polymer (e.g., polymethyl methacrylate (“PMMA” or polystyrene (“PS”)), a polymer derivative having phenolic groups, an acrylic polymer, an imide polymer, an aryl ether polymer, an amide polymer, a fluorinated polymer, a p-xylene polymer, a vinyl alcohol polymer, or a combination thereof (e.g., a mixture).

[0186] The first connection electrode CML1 may be located on the first planarization layer 115. In such an embodiment, the first connection electrode CML1 can be connected to the drain electrode DE or the source electrode SE through a contact hole defined in the first planarization layer 115. The first connection electrode CML1 may include a material with high conductivity. The first connection electrode CML1 may include a conductive material comprising molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), or titanium (Ti), and may have a single-layer structure or a multilayer structure comprising the above conductive materials. In an embodiment, the first connection electrode CML1 may have a multilayer structure comprising Ti / Al / Ti.

[0187] The second planarization layer 116 may cover the first connection electrode CML1. The second planarization layer 116 may include an organic insulating layer. The second planarization layer 116 may include an organic insulating material such as a general polymer (e.g., PMMA or PS), a polymer derivative having phenolic groups, an acrylic polymer, an imide polymer, an aryl ether polymer, an amide polymer, a fluorinated polymer, a p-xylene polymer, a vinyl alcohol polymer, or a combination thereof.

[0188] The display element layer DEL can be located on the pixel circuit layer PCL. The display element layer DEL can include a first organic light-emitting diode OLED1, and the pixel electrode 211 of the first organic light-emitting diode OLED1 can be electrically connected to the first connection electrode CML1 through a contact hole defined in the second planarization layer 116.

[0189] Pixel electrode 211 may include a conductive oxide such as indium tin oxide (“ITO”), indium zinc oxide (“IZO”), zinc oxide (ZnO), indium oxide (In2O3), indium gallium oxide (“IGO”), or aluminum zinc oxide (“AZO”). In an alternative embodiment, pixel electrode 211 may include a reflective film comprising silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), or combinations thereof (e.g., compounds). In another alternative embodiment, pixel electrode 211 may further include a film formed of ITO, IZO, ZnO, or In2O3 above / below the reflective film.

[0190] An opening 118OP may be located on the pixel electrode 211 through a pixel defining film 118 that is defined to expose the central portion of the pixel electrode 211. The pixel defining film 118 may comprise an organic insulating material and / or an inorganic insulating material. The opening 118OP may define an emission region EA of light emitted by the first organic light-emitting diode OLED 1. In one embodiment, for example, the width of the opening 118OP may correspond to the width of the emission region EA.

[0191] The spacer 119 may be located on the pixel defining film 118. In the method of manufacturing a display device, the spacer 119 can prevent damage to the substrate 100. In embodiments of the method of manufacturing a display panel, a mask may be used, and in such embodiments, the spacer 119 can effectively prevent the mask from being introduced into the opening 118OP of the pixel defining film 118 or from being tightly attached to the pixel defining film 118, so that when the deposition material is deposited on the substrate 100, a portion of the substrate 100 is effectively prevented from being damaged by the mask.

[0192] The separator 119 may include an organic insulating material such as polyimide. Alternatively, the separator 119 may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon nitride or silicon oxide, or may include both organic and inorganic insulating materials.

[0193] In one embodiment, the spacer 119 may comprise a material different from that of the pixel defining film 118. In an alternative embodiment, the spacer 119 may comprise the same material as the pixel defining film 118, and in such an embodiment, the pixel defining film 118 and the spacer 119 may be formed together during the same masking process using a halftone mask or the like.

[0194] In an embodiment, such as Figure 8BAs shown, the intermediate layer 212 may be located on the pixel defining film 118. The intermediate layer 212 may include an emitting layer 212b located in the opening 118OP of the pixel defining film 118. The emitting layer 212b may include a high molecular weight organic material or a low molecular weight organic material that emits light of a specific color.

[0195] The first functional layer 212a and the second functional layer 212c may be located below and above the emitter layer 212b, respectively. The first functional layer 212a may include, for example, a hole transport layer (“HTL”), or may include a hole transport layer and a hole injection layer (“HIL”). The second functional layer 212c located above the emitter layer 212b may be optional. The second functional layer 212c may include an electron transport layer (“ETL”) and / or an electron injection layer (“EIL”). The first functional layer 212a and / or the second functional layer 212c may be a common layer formed to completely cover the substrate 100, such as the counter electrode 213 described below.

[0196] The counter electrode 213 may be formed of a conductive material having a low work function. In one embodiment, for example, the counter electrode 213 may include a (semi-)transparent layer comprising silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), lithium (Li), calcium (Ca), or combinations thereof. Alternatively, the counter electrode 213 may further include a layer formed of ITO, IZO, ZnO, or In2O3 on top of the (semi-)transparent layer comprising the above materials.

[0197] In an embodiment, a capping layer (not shown) may be further located on the counter electrode 213. The capping layer may include LiF, inorganic materials, and / or organic materials.

[0198] The thin-film encapsulation layer TFE can be located on the counter electrode 213. In an embodiment, the thin-film encapsulation layer TFE may include at least one inorganic encapsulation layer and at least one organic encapsulation layer. In an embodiment, such as Figure 8A As shown, the thin-film encapsulation layer TFE includes a first inorganic encapsulation layer 310, an organic encapsulation layer 320, and a second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 stacked sequentially.

[0199] Each of the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 and the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 may include at least one inorganic material selected from alumina, titanium oxide, tantalum oxide, hafnium oxide, zinc oxide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride. In an embodiment, the organic encapsulation layer 320 may include a polymeric material. In such an embodiment, the polymeric material may include at least one selected from acrylic resins, epoxy resins, polyimides, and polyethylene. In one embodiment, for example, the organic encapsulation layer 320 may include an acrylate.

[0200] In the embodiments, although in Figure 8A Not shown, but the touch electrode layer may be located on the thin-film encapsulation layer TFE, and the optical functional layer may be located on the touch electrode layer. The touch electrode layer can acquire coordinate information based on external input (e.g., touch events). The optical functional layer can reduce the reflectivity of light incident on the display device (external light) and / or improve the color purity of light emitted from the display device. In embodiments, the optical functional layer may include a phase retarder and / or a polarizer. The phase retarder may be film-type or liquid crystal coating-type, and may include λ / 2 phase retarders and / or λ / 4 phase retarders. The polarizer may also be film-type or liquid crystal coating-type. Film-type polarizers may include stretchable synthetic resin films, and liquid crystal coating-type polarizers may include liquid crystals arranged in a specific configuration. The phase retarder and polarizer may further include a protective film.

[0201] In an alternative embodiment, the optical functional layer may include a black matrix and color filters. The color filters may be arranged in consideration of the color of light emitted by each pixel of the display device. Each of the color filters may include a red, green, or blue pigment or dye. Alternatively, in addition to pigments or dyes, each of the color filters may further include quantum dots. Alternatively, some of the color filters may not include pigments or dyes and may include scattering particles such as titanium dioxide.

[0202] In another alternative embodiment, the optical functional layer may have a destructive interference structure. The destructive interference structure may include a first reflective layer and a second reflective layer located on different layers. The first reflected light and the second reflected light reflected by the first reflective layer and the second reflective layer, respectively, can destructively interfere with each other, thereby reducing the reflectivity of external light.

[0203] In this embodiment, an adhesive member (not shown) may be placed between the touch electrode layer and the optical functional layer. Any adhesive member known in the relevant art may be used without limitation. In one embodiment, for example, the adhesive member may be a pressure-sensitive adhesive (“PSA”).

[0204] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a recess Gv in a display panel according to an embodiment.

[0205] refer to Figure 9 In one embodiment, a groove Gv may be defined or provided in the base layer BL and the lower layer LL. The groove Gv may be located on the substrate and may be recessed in the thickness direction of the substrate. In such an embodiment, the groove Gv may be defined by the top surface of the base layer BL and the hole H of the lower layer LL.

[0206] In an embodiment, the substrate BL can be a lower inorganic layer or a lower inorganic patterned layer. In such an embodiment, the substrate BL may have silicon nitride (SiN) as a component. X ) and / or silicon oxide (SiO) X The substrate BL can be a single-layer or multi-layer structure. In an alternative embodiment, the substrate BL can be a metal patterned layer. In such an embodiment, the substrate BL can include a conductive material comprising molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), or titanium (Ti), and can have a single-layer or multi-layer structure comprising the above conductive materials.

[0207] The lower LL can be with Figure 8A Some of the components in the display panel correspond to each other. In one embodiment, for example, the lower LL may be Figure 8A The second planarization layer 116. Alternatively, the lower layer LL may include a first planarization layer 115 and a second planarization layer 116. Alternatively, the lower layer LL may further include a third planarization layer between the first planarization layer 115 and the second planarization layer 116. In such an embodiment, the lower layer LL may include at least one of the first planarization layer 115, the second planarization layer 116, and the third planarization layer.

[0208] In embodiments where the base layer BL is a lower inorganic patterned layer or a lower metallic patterned layer, the lower layer LL may cover the edges of the lower inorganic patterned layer or the lower metallic patterned layer. In embodiments, the aperture H of the lower layer LL may expose the central portion of the lower inorganic patterned layer or the central portion of the lower metallic patterned layer.

[0209] In such an embodiment, the inorganic patterned layer PVX2 may be located on opposite sides of the groove Gv. The inorganic patterned layer PVX2 may include a pair of protruding tips PT projecting toward the center of the groove Gv. In such an embodiment, the first width W1 between the protruding tips PT may be smaller than the second width (or diameter) W2 of the hole H of the lower layer LL. In such an embodiment, the second width W2 is the distance between the side surfaces of the lower layer LL that face each other and are in contact with the inorganic patterned layer PVX2.

[0210] At least one of the first functional layer 212a and the second functional layer 212c may be located on the inorganic patterned layer PVX2. In such an embodiment, at least one of the first functional layer 212a and the second functional layer 212c may be separated by a protruding tip PT and a groove Gv.

[0211] At least one of the first functional layer pattern 212Pa and the second functional layer pattern 212Pc may be located in the groove Gv. In such an embodiment, the first functional layer pattern 212Pa and the second functional layer pattern 212Pc may comprise the same material as at least one of the first functional layers 212a and 212c. At least one of the first functional layer pattern 212Pa and the second functional layer pattern 212Pc may be formed simultaneously with at least one of the first functional layers 212a and 212c.

[0212] Counter electrode 213 may be located on at least one of the first functional layer 212a and the second functional layer 212c. Counter electrode 213 may be separated by a protruding tip PT and a groove Gv. Counter electrode pattern 213P may be located in the groove Gv. In such an embodiment, counter electrode pattern 213P may comprise the same material as counter electrode 213. Counter electrode pattern 213P may be formed simultaneously with counter electrode 213.

[0213] Therefore, in the embodiments, at least one of the first functional layer 212a, the second functional layer 212c, and the counter electrode 213 may be separated by a protruding tip PT and a groove Gv. For ease of description, an embodiment in which the first functional layer 212a, the second functional layer 212c, and the counter electrode 213 are separated by a protruding tip PT and a groove Gv will be described in detail.

[0214] Figure 10A It is along Figure 6A A cross-sectional view taken by line X-X'. Figure 10B It is a diagram. Figure 10A Enlarged view of the groove Gv and the dam-shaped portion DP. Figure 10A and Figure 10B In, with Figure 8A The same elements are indicated by the same reference numerals, and therefore any repeated detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0215] refer to Figure 10A and Figure 10B An embodiment of the display panel may include a corner display area CDA and a central display area MDA. The corner display area CDA may include a second thin-film transistor TFT2 and a second organic light-emitting diode OLED2, which is a second display element, and the central display area MDA may include a third organic light-emitting diode OLED3, which is a third display element. The second thin-film transistor TFT2 and the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2 may constitute a second sub-pixel in the corner display area CDA, and the third organic light-emitting diode OLED3 may constitute a third sub-pixel in the central display area MDA.

[0216] In one embodiment, the display panel may include a recess Gv on the substrate 100, and the recess Gv may be recessed in the thickness direction of the substrate 100. In such an embodiment, the recess Gv may be located between the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2 and the third organic light-emitting diode OLED3. The recess Gv may include a first recess Gv1, a second recess Gv2, and a third recess Gv3. Each of the first recess Gv1, the second recess Gv2, and the third recess Gv3 may be... Figure 9 The grooves Gv are the same or similar. In such an embodiment, the lower layer of the first groove Gv1, the second groove Gv2 and the third groove Gv3 may be the second planarization layer 116.

[0217] The structure of the display panels in the central display area MDA and the corner display area CDA will be described in detail below.

[0218] In this embodiment, substrate 100, buffer layer 111, pixel circuit layer PCL, display element layer DEL, and thin film encapsulation layer TFE can be stacked in the central display area MDA and the corner display area CDA. Pixel circuit layer PCL may include inorganic insulating layer 1IL, first connection wiring CL1, first planarization layer 115, second connection wiring CL2, second planarization layer 116, and inorganic pattern layer PVX2.

[0219] The buffer layer 111 may be located on the substrate 100. In an embodiment, the buffer layer 111 may include a protruding tip in the corner display area CDA. The protruding tip of the buffer layer 111 may prevent the first functional layer 212a and / or the second functional layer 212c from forming between adjacent extension areas LA.

[0220] The inorganic insulating layer IIL may be located on the buffer layer 111. The inorganic insulating layer IIL may include a first gate insulating layer 112, a second gate insulating layer 113, and an interlayer insulating layer 114.

[0221] The first connection wiring CL1 can be located on the inorganic insulating layer IIL. The first connection wiring CL1 can extend from the central display area MDA to the corner display area CDA. The first connection wiring CL1 can be a power wiring for supplying power or a signal line for applying an electrical signal to the second pixel PX2 of the corner display area CDA.

[0222] The first planarization layer 115 may be located on the inorganic insulating layer 111, and the first planarization layer 115 may cover the first connection wiring CL1. The second connection wiring CL2, the second connection electrode CML2, and the third connection electrode CML3 may be located on the first planarization layer 115.

[0223] The second connection wiring CL2 can extend from the central display area MDA to the corner display area CDA. Like the first connection wiring CL1, the second connection wiring CL2 can be a power wiring for supplying power or a signal line for applying electrical signals to the second thin-film transistor TFT2 in the corner display area CDA.

[0224] In one embodiment, the lower inorganic pattern layer PVX1 may be located on the second connection wiring CL2. In another embodiment, multiple lower inorganic pattern layers PVX1 may be located on the second connection wiring CL2, and the multiple lower inorganic pattern layers PVX1 may be spaced apart from each other on the second connection wiring CL2.

[0225] The second planarization layer 116 may cover the second connection wiring CL2, the second connection electrode CML2, and the third connection electrode CML3. In an embodiment, the second planarization layer 116 may be a lower layer for defining the groove Gv. In such an embodiment, the aperture H may be defined to penetrate the second planarization layer 116, and the aperture H may correspond to the lower inorganic patterning layer PVX1. In such an embodiment, the second planarization layer 116 may cover the edge of the lower inorganic patterning layer PVX1. Therefore, the groove Gv may be defined by the central portion of the lower inorganic patterning layer PVX1 and the aperture H of the second planarization layer 116.

[0226] In one embodiment, the inorganic patterned layer PVX2 may be located on the second planarization layer 116. The inorganic patterned layer PVX2 may be located on the opposite side of the groove Gv and may include a pair of protruding tips PT projecting toward the center of the groove Gv.

[0227] The first functional layer 212a, the second functional layer 212c, and the counter electrode 213 located on the inorganic patterned layer PVX2 can be separated by a groove Gv and a protruding tip PT. In such an embodiment, the first functional layer pattern 212Pa, the second functional layer pattern 212Pc, and the counter electrode pattern 213P can be located in the groove Gv.

[0228] In one embodiment, a dam-shaped portion DP protruding in the thickness direction of the substrate 100 may be provided above the inorganic patterned layer PVX2. In another embodiment, the dam-shaped portion DP may include a first dam-shaped portion DP1 and a second dam-shaped portion DP2. In such an embodiment, the dam-shaped portion DP and the groove Gv may be arranged alternately. In one embodiment, for example, the first groove Gv1, the first dam-shaped portion DP1, the second groove Gv2, the second dam-shaped portion DP2, and the third groove Gv3 may be arranged sequentially in the direction from the corner display area CDA to the intermediate display area MDA.

[0229] The first dam-shaped portion DP1 and the second dam-shaped portion DP2 may include first layers 118a and 118b, and second layers 119a and 119b located on the first layers 118a and 118b. In such an embodiment, the first layers 118a and 118b may include the same material as the pixel defining film 118. In an embodiment, the first layers 118a and 118b may be formed simultaneously with the formation of the pixel defining film 118. The second layers 119a and 119b may include materials associated with the separator 119 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 8A The materials are the same. In such an embodiment, the second layers 119a and 119b can be formed simultaneously with the formation of the spacer 119.

[0230] The thin-film encapsulation layer TFE can cover the second organic light-emitting diode (OLED2) and the third organic light-emitting diode (OLED3). The thin-film encapsulation layer TFE may include at least one inorganic encapsulation layer and at least one organic encapsulation layer. In an embodiment, such as... Figure 10A and Figure 10B As shown, the thin-film encapsulation layer TFE includes a first inorganic encapsulation layer 310, an organic encapsulation layer 320, and a second inorganic encapsulation layer 330.

[0231] The thin-film encapsulation layer TFE can extend from the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2 to the first dam-shaped portion DP1. In such an embodiment, the thin-film encapsulation layer TFE can extend from the third organic light-emitting diode OLED3 to the second dam-shaped portion DP2.

[0232] The first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can completely and continuously cover the corner display area CDA and the central display area MDA. In an embodiment, the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can completely and continuously be located above the first groove Gv1, the first dam-shaped portion DP1, the second groove Gv2, the second dam-shaped portion DP2, and the third groove Gv3. Additionally, the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can cover the first functional layer pattern 212Pa, the second functional layer pattern 212Pc, and the counter electrode pattern 213P located in the groove Gv. The first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can contact the inorganic pattern layer PVX2. In an embodiment, the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can contact the protruding tip PT of the inorganic pattern layer PVX2.

[0233] In one embodiment, the organic encapsulation layer 320 may be separated by dam-shaped portions DP. In one embodiment, for example, the organic encapsulation layer 320 may extend from the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2 to the first dam-shaped portion DP1 and may fill the first recess Gv1. In such an embodiment, the organic encapsulation layer 320 may extend from the third organic light-emitting diode OLED3 to the second dam-shaped portion DP2 and may fill the third recess Gv3. In such an embodiment, the organic encapsulation layer 320 may be controlled by the first dam-shaped portion DP1 and the second dam-shaped portion DP2. In such an embodiment, the organic encapsulation layer 320 may not fill the second recess Gv2.

[0234] Like the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310, the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 can completely and continuously cover the corner display area CDA and the central display area MDA. In an embodiment, the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 can contact the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 on the first dam-shaped portion DP1 and the second dam-shaped portion DP2. In such an embodiment, the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 can contact the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 in the second groove Gv2. Therefore, the organic encapsulation layer 320 can be separated by the dam-shaped portion DP. In an alternative embodiment, at least one of the first layers 118a and 118b and the second layers 119a and 119b of the first dam-shaped portion DP1 and the second dam-shaped portion DP2 can be omitted, and the organic encapsulation layer 320 can extend from the central display area MDA to the corner display area CDA. In such an embodiment, the organic encapsulation layer 320 can be provided integrally in the central display area MDA and the corner display area CDA.

[0235] In an embodiment, the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 and the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 may cover the exposed side surfaces of the substrate 100, the buffer layer 111, the inorganic insulating layer 111, and the first planarization layer 115.

[0236] In an embodiment, the aperture H of the second planarization layer 116 can be formed using an etching process. If the lower inorganic patterning layer PVX1 is omitted, the second connection wiring CL2 can be etched during the etching process. In this case, the resistance of the second connection wiring CL2 may increase. In an embodiment of the invention, the lower inorganic patterning layer PVX1 is located on the second connection wiring CL2 to correspond to the aperture H of the second planarization layer 116, thereby effectively preventing the second connection wiring CL2 from being etched.

[0237] In an embodiment, the driving circuit or power wiring may be located in the central display area MDA, and the third organic light-emitting diode OLED3 may overlap with the driving circuit or power wiring. In an embodiment, such as Figure 10AAs shown, the third organic light-emitting diode (OLED3) overlaps with the driving circuit transistor (DC-TFT) included in the driving circuit. In an embodiment, the third thin-film transistor connected to the third OLED3 may be spaced apart from the intermediate display area (MDA). In such an embodiment, the third OLED3 may be connected to the third thin-film transistor via a third connection electrode (CML3). In an alternative embodiment, the third thin-film transistor may be located within the intermediate display area (MDA). In such an embodiment, the third OLED3 may be connected to the third thin-film transistor located within the intermediate display area (MDA).

[0238] Figure 10C This is an enlarged view illustrating the groove Gv and the dam-shaped portion DP according to an alternative embodiment. Figure 10C In, with Figure 10B The same elements are indicated by the same reference numerals, and therefore any repeated detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0239] refer to Figure 10C An embodiment of the display panel may include a recess Gv on the substrate 100, and the recess Gv may be recessed in the thickness direction of the substrate 100. In such an embodiment, the recess Gv may be located between the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2 and the third organic light-emitting diode OLED3. The recess Gv may include a first recess Gv1, a second recess Gv2, and a third recess Gv3. Each of the first recess Gv1, the second recess Gv2, and the third recess Gv3 may be... Figure 9 The grooves Gv are the same or similar. In such an embodiment, the lower layer of the first groove Gv1, the second groove Gv2 and the third groove Gv3 may include a first planarization layer 115 and a second planarization layer 116.

[0240] In this embodiment, the substrate 100, buffer layer 111, pixel circuit layer PCL, display element layer DEL, and thin film encapsulation layer TFE can be stacked in the central display area MDA and the corner display area CDA. The pixel circuit layer PCL may include an inorganic insulating layer IIL, a first connection wiring CL1, a lower inorganic layer PVX1-1, a first planarization layer 115, a second planarization layer 116, and an inorganic pattern layer PVX2.

[0241] The buffer layer 111 and the inorganic insulating layer IIL can be located on the substrate 100, and the first connection wiring CL1 can extend from the middle display area MDA to the corner display area CDA.

[0242] In one embodiment, the lower inorganic layer PVX1-1 may cover the first connection wiring CL1. In such an embodiment, the lower inorganic layer PVX1-1 may completely cover the first connection wiring CL1. In some embodiments, the lower inorganic layer PVX1-1 may expose at least a portion of the first connection wiring CL1. The lower inorganic layer PVX1-1 may have a composition including, for example, silicon nitride (SiN). X ) or silicon oxide (SiO) X ( ) Inorganic materials with single-layer or multi-layer structures.

[0243] A lower layer including a first planarization layer 115 and a second planarization layer 116 may be located on the lower inorganic layer PVX1-1. The lower layer may expose a portion of the lower inorganic layer PVX1-1. In such an embodiment, the aperture H is defined to penetrate the lower layer including the first planarization layer 115 and the second planarization layer 116. In such an embodiment, the aperture H of the lower layer can be formed by connecting the apertures of the first planarization layer 115 and the second planarization layer 116. Therefore, in such an embodiment, the groove Gv may be defined by this portion of the lower inorganic layer PVX1-1 and the aperture H of the lower layer.

[0244] The inorganic patterned layer PVX2 can be located on the opposite side of the groove Gv, and the first functional layer 212a, the second functional layer 212c and the counter electrode 213 can be separated by the protruding tip PT of the inorganic patterned layer PVX2 and the groove Gv.

[0245] In this embodiment, because the aperture H is defined in the lower layer including the first planarization layer 115 and the second planarization layer 116, the depth of the groove Gv can be increased. Therefore, because the first functional layer 212a, the second functional layer 212c, and the counter electrode 213 can be more effectively separated by the groove Gv and the protruding tip PT, the reliability of the display panel can be ensured.

[0246] Figure 11A According to the alternative embodiments along Figure 6A A cross-sectional view taken by line X-X'. Figure 11B It is a diagram. Figure 11A Enlarged view of the groove Gv and the dam-shaped portion DP. Figure 11A and Figure 11B In, with Figure 10A and Figure 10B The same elements are indicated by the same reference numerals, and therefore any repeated detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0247] In addition to providing the third connection wiring CL3 and the third planarization layer 117, Figure 11A and Figure 11B Implementation examples and Figure 10A and Figure 10B The embodiments are basically the same.

[0248] refer to Figure 11A and Figure 11B An embodiment of the display panel may include a corner display area CDA and a central display area MDA. The corner display area CDA may include a second thin-film transistor TFT2 and a second organic light-emitting diode OLED2, which is a second display element, and the central display area MDA may include a third organic light-emitting diode OLED3, which is a third display element.

[0249] In one embodiment, the display panel may include a recess Gv on the substrate 100, and the recess Gv may be recessed in the thickness direction of the substrate 100. The inorganic pattern layer PVX2 may include a pair of protruding tips PT protruding toward the center of the recess Gv, and the recess Gv may be located between the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2 and the third organic light-emitting diode OLED3.

[0250] In an embodiment, the third planarization layer 117 may be located between the first planarization layer 115 and the second planarization layer 116. The third planarization layer 117 may include an organic insulating material such as a general polymer (e.g., PMMA or PS), a polymer derivative having phenolic groups, an acrylic polymer, an imide polymer, an aryl ether polymer, an amide polymer, a fluorinated polymer, a p-xylene polymer, a vinyl alcohol polymer, or a combination thereof.

[0251] The third connection wiring CL3 can be located between the first planarization layer 115 and the third planarization layer 117. The third connection wiring CL3 can extend from the central display area MDA to the corner display area CDA. Therefore, in such an embodiment, a signal or power voltage applied by the driving circuit located in the central display area MDA can be transmitted to the corner display area CDA through the first connection wiring CL1, the second connection wiring CL2, and the third connection wiring CL3. Like the first connection wiring CL1 or the second connection wiring CL2, the third connection wiring CL3 can include a conductive material comprising molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), or titanium (Ti), and can have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure comprising the above conductive materials. In an embodiment, the third connection wiring CL3 can have a multi-layer structure comprising Ti / Al / Ti.

[0252] In an embodiment, a second connection electrode CML2 may be provided for connecting the second thin-film transistor TFT2 to the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2. The second connection electrode CML2 may include a second lower connection electrode CMLa2 and a second upper connection electrode CMLb2. The second lower connection electrode CMLa2 may be located between the first planarization layer 115 and the third planarization layer 117, and may be connected to the second thin-film transistor TFT2 through a contact hole defined in the first planarization layer 115. The second lower connection electrode CMLa2 may include the same material as the third connection wiring CL3, and may be formed simultaneously with the formation of the third connection wiring CL3.

[0253] The second upper connection electrode CMLb2 can be located between the third planarization layer 117 and the second planarization layer 116. The second upper connection electrode CMLb2 can be connected to the second lower connection electrode CMLa2 through a contact hole defined in the third planarization layer 117. In such an embodiment, the second upper connection electrode CMLb2 can be connected to the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2 through a contact hole formed in the second planarization layer 116. The second upper connection electrode CMLb2 can include the same material as the second connection wiring CL2 and can be formed simultaneously with the formation of the second connection wiring CL2.

[0254] Figure 12A , Figure 12B and Figure 12C This is an enlarged view illustrating the groove Gv and the dam-shaped portion DP according to various embodiments. Figures 12A to 12C In, with Figure 11A and Figure 11B The same elements are indicated by the same reference numerals, and therefore any repeated detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0255] refer to Figures 12A to 12C An embodiment of the display panel may include a corner display area CDA and a central display area MDA. The corner display area CDA may include a second thin-film transistor TFT2 and a second organic light-emitting diode OLED2, which is a second display element, and the central display area MDA may include a third organic light-emitting diode OLED3, which is a third display element.

[0256] In such an embodiment, the display panel may include a recess Gv on the substrate 100, and the recess Gv may be recessed in the thickness direction of the substrate 100. In such an embodiment, the recess Gv may be located between the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2 and the third organic light-emitting diode OLED3. The recess Gv may include a first recess Gv1, a second recess Gv2, and a third recess Gv3.

[0257] refer to Figure 12A and Figure 12B In the embodiment, each of the first groove Gv1, the second groove Gv2, and the third groove Gv3 can be connected with... Figure 9 The grooves Gv are the same or similar. In such an embodiment, the lower layer of the first groove Gv1, the second groove Gv2 and the third groove Gv3 may include a third planarization layer 117 and a second planarization layer 116.

[0258] refer to Figure 12B In such an embodiment, the metal pattern layer CLP may be located on the first planarization layer 115. In another embodiment, multiple metal pattern layers CLP may be located on the first planarization layer 115, and these multiple metal pattern layers CLP may be spaced apart from each other. In yet another embodiment, the metal pattern layers CLP may be connected to the first connection wiring CL1 through contact holes 115CNT of the first planarization layer 115.

[0259] The third planarization layer 117 and the second planarization layer 116 can cover the edges of the metal patterned layer CLP. In such an embodiment, the aperture H can be defined to penetrate the lower layer including the third planarization layer 117 and the second planarization layer 116, and the aperture H in the lower layer can expose the central portion of the metal patterned layer CLP. Therefore, the aperture H in the lower layer and the central portion of the metal patterned layer CLP can define a groove Gv.

[0260] In such an embodiment, the lower inorganic pattern layer can be omitted, and the metallic pattern layer CLP can be formed simultaneously with the formation of the interconnect wiring. Therefore, the process of manufacturing the display panel can be simplified.

[0261] refer to Figure 12C In another alternative embodiment, each of the first groove Gv1, the second groove Gv2, and the third groove Gv3 can be connected to... Figure 9 The grooves Gv are the same or similar. In such an embodiment, the lower layer of the first groove Gv1, the second groove Gv2 and the third groove Gv3 may include a first planarization layer 115, a third planarization layer 117 and a second planarization layer 116.

[0262] The lower inorganic layer PVX1-1 may cover the first connection wiring CL1. A lower layer including a first planarization layer 115, a third planarization layer 117, and a second planarization layer 116 may be located on the lower inorganic layer PVX1-1. In such an embodiment, the lower hole H may expose a portion of the lower inorganic layer PVX1-1. In such an embodiment, the lower hole H may be formed by connecting holes in the first planarization layer 115, the third planarization layer 117, and the second planarization layer 116. Therefore, the groove Gv may be defined by this portion of the lower inorganic layer PVX1-1 and the lower hole H.

[0263] Figure 13It is along Figure 6A The cross-sectional view taken by line XIII-XIII'. Figure 13 In, with Figure 10A and Figure 10B The same elements are indicated by the same reference numerals, and therefore any repeated detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0264] refer to Figure 13 An embodiment of the display panel may include a corner display area CDA. The corner display area CDA may include a plurality of extended areas LA extending from the central display area, and a through portion may be provided between adjacent extended areas LA. A second organic light-emitting diode OLED2 and a second thin-film transistor TFT2 may be located in the extended areas LA. Figure 13 The second organic light-emitting diode OLED2 is the organic light-emitting diode in the extended region LA that is furthest from the central display area.

[0265] The connecting wiring CL can extend from the central display area to the extended area LA. In one embodiment, for example, the connecting wiring CL may include a first connecting wiring CL1 and a second connecting wiring CL2. In an embodiment, the first connecting wiring CL1 may be located between the inorganic insulating layer 111 and the first planarization layer 115, and the second connecting wiring CL2 may be located between the first planarization layer 115 and the second planarization layer 116. In an embodiment, the second connecting wiring CL2 may supply a second power supply voltage ELVSS (see [link to embodiment]) to the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2. Figure 3 ).

[0266] In such an embodiment, the contact hole CNT is defined to penetrate the second planarization layer 116 to expose at least a portion of the second connection wiring CL2. In such an embodiment, the contact hole CNT may be located in the end portion of the extension region LA. In such an embodiment, the contact hole CNT may be located in the second recess Gv2 and in the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2 located in the extension region LA, away from the central display region MDA (see example). Figure 10A and Figure 10B The furthest second organic light-emitting diode (OLED) is between OLED2. In an embodiment, the inorganic patterned layers PVX2 may be spaced apart to correspond to the contact holes CNT of the second planarization layer 116 and expose the second connection wiring CL2.

[0267] The second connection wiring CL2 can be connected to the counter electrode 213. In an embodiment, the second connection wiring CL2 and the counter electrode 213 can be connected by a pixel electrode pattern 211P, which comprises the same material as the pixel electrode 211. The pixel electrode pattern 211P can be spaced apart from the pixel electrode 211 and can be located in a contact hole CNT. In an embodiment, the pixel electrode pattern 211P can be formed simultaneously with the formation of the pixel electrode 211.

[0268] In one embodiment, the contact hole CNT of the second planarization layer 116 may be formed in the end portion of the extension region LA. In such an embodiment, the first functional layer 212a and the second functional layer 212c may be spaced apart from the contact hole CNT to expose the contact hole CNT. That is, the first functional layer 212a and the second functional layer 212c may not extend to the second connection wiring CL2 through its exposed contact hole CNT. Therefore, the second connection wiring CL2 and the counter electrode 213 connected by the pixel electrode pattern 211P can maintain low resistance. That is, the extent to which the first functional layer 212a and the second functional layer 212c are formed on the entire surface of the extension region LA can be adjusted or limited so that the first functional layer 212a and the second functional layer 212c are not formed on the end portion of the extension region LA. In addition, the extent to which the first functional layer 212a and the second functional layer 212c are formed on the entire surface of the extension region LA can be adjusted or limited so that the counter electrode 213 is also formed on the end portion of the extension region LA.

[0269] In such an embodiment, the counter electrode pattern 213P inside the second groove Gv2 can contact the lower inorganic pattern layer PVX1 or the first planarization layer 115, and the protruding tip PT of the inorganic pattern layer PVX2 can contact the counter electrode 213.

[0270] Figure 14 This is a plan view illustrating one of the extended regions LA according to an alternative embodiment. Figure 14 In, with Figure 6A The same elements are indicated by the same reference numerals, and therefore any repeated detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0271] refer to Figure 14 In one embodiment, the corner display area CDA may include a plurality of extension areas LA extending from the intermediate display area MDA, and a through portion may be provided between adjacent extension areas LA. In such an embodiment, a second pixel PX2 including a second display element may be located in the extension area LA, and a third pixel PX3 including a third display element may be located in the intermediate display area MDA.

[0272] In such an embodiment, the display panel may include a recess Gv located on a substrate. The recess Gv may be recessed in the thickness direction of the substrate. In such an embodiment, an inorganic patterned layer PVX2 including a pair of protruding tips projecting toward the center of the recess Gv may be located on opposite sides of the recess Gv. In such an embodiment, at least one recess Gv may be located in an extension region LA. In one embodiment, for example, the recess Gv may include a first recess Gv1, a second recess Gv2, and a third recess Gv3.

[0273] In one embodiment, the connecting wiring CL can extend from the central display area MDA to the extended area LA.

[0274] In one embodiment, a plurality of second pixels PX2 may be located within the extended region LA. In such an embodiment, the counter electrodes 213 of the second organic light-emitting diodes may be spaced apart from each other and may each be connected to a connection wiring CL. That is, a plurality of contact holes CNT may penetrate the planarization layer in the extended region LA. In such an embodiment, the first groove Gv1 and the inorganic pattern layer PVX2 may surround each of the plurality of second pixels PX2.

[0275] In embodiments where a first and second functional layer of an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) is formed using a fine metal mask (“FMM”), the first and second functional layers can be spaced apart from each other in each OLED. In such an embodiment, a first recess Gv1 and an inorganic pattern layer PVX2 surround each of a plurality of second pixels PX2, such that the counter electrode 213 of the second OLED can be separated by the protruding tips of the first recess Gv1 and the inorganic pattern layer PVX2. Therefore, the counter electrode 213 of each second OLED can be connected to a connection wiring CL to receive a second power supply voltage.

[0276] Figure 15 This is a plan view illustrating the corner display area CDA and the central display area MDA according to an embodiment. Figure 15 In, with Figure 6A The same elements are indicated by the same reference numerals, and therefore any repeated detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0277] refer to Figure 15 In one embodiment, the corner display area CDA may include a plurality of extension areas LA extending from the intermediate display area MDA, and the through portion PNP may be provided between adjacent extension areas LA. In such an embodiment, a second pixel PX2 including a second display element may be located in the extension area LA, and a third pixel PX3 including a third display element may be located in the intermediate display area MDA.

[0278] Multiple second pixels PX2 can be provided in the extended region LA, and multiple third pixels PX3 can be provided in the intermediate display region MDA. In such an embodiment, the second pixels PX2 and the third pixels PX3 can be positioned parallel to each other in the extension direction of the extended region LA.

[0279] The third pixel PX3 may include an inner pixel IPX3 and an outer pixel OPX3. In such an embodiment, the outer pixel OPX3 may face the second pixel PX2. In such an embodiment, the outer pixel OPX3 may be located between the inner pixel IPX3 and the second pixel PX2.

[0280] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of extended regions LA may include a first extended region LA1 and a second extended region LA2. In such an embodiment, the second extended region LA2 may be located between the first extended region LA1 and the intermediate display region MDA. In such an embodiment, the second extended regions LA2 of the plurality of extended regions LA may be connected to each other. In one embodiment, for example, the second extended regions LA2 may be integrally formed with each other. Thus, the through portion PNP may be defined by the edges of adjacent first extended regions LA1 and second extended regions LA2.

[0281] The recess Gv can be located in the corner display area CDA and the middle display area MDA. The recess Gv can be recessed in the thickness direction of the substrate. In an embodiment, at least one recess Gv can be located in the extension area LA. The recess Gv can include, for example, a first recess Gv1, a second recess Gv2, a third recess Gv3, a fifth recess Gv5, a sixth recess Gv6, and a seventh recess Gv7.

[0282] The first groove Gv1 may be located in the extended region LA. In one embodiment, for example, the first groove Gv1 may surround a plurality of second pixels PX2. Alternatively, the first groove Gv1 may surround each second pixel PX2 individually.

[0283] The second groove Gv2 may be located between the second pixel PX2 and the third pixel PX3. In an embodiment, the second groove Gv2 may extend in a direction that is spaced apart from each other by the plurality of extended regions LA. In one embodiment, for example, the second groove Gv2 may extend in one direction. Alternatively, the second groove Gv2 may extend along the edge of the intermediate display area MDA.

[0284] The third groove Gv3 may be located between the second groove Gv2 and the third pixel PX3. In one embodiment, the third groove Gv3 may extend parallel to the second groove Gv2. In another embodiment, for example, the third groove Gv3 may extend in a direction in which multiple extension regions LA are spaced apart from each other.

[0285] The fifth groove Gv5 may be located within the extended region LA. In such an embodiment, the fifth groove Gv5 may surround the first groove Gv1. In one embodiment, for example, the fifth groove Gv5 may surround the first groove Gv1 and a plurality of second pixels PX2.

[0286] The sixth groove Gv6 may be located between the third groove Gv3 and the third pixel PX3. In an embodiment, the sixth groove Gv6 may extend parallel to the second groove Gv2 and / or the third groove Gv3. In one embodiment, for example, the sixth groove Gv6 may extend in a direction in which multiple extension regions LA are spaced apart from each other.

[0287] The seventh groove Gv7 may be located in the second extension region LA2. In one embodiment, the seventh groove Gv7 may be located between adjacent first grooves Gv1. In such an embodiment, the seventh groove Gv7 may be located between adjacent first dam-shaped portions DP1 of the extension region LA.

[0288] The inorganic patterned layer PVX2 may be located on the opposite side of the groove Gv and may include a pair of protruding tips that project toward the center of the groove Gv.

[0289] At least one dam-shaped portion DP may surround the second pixel PX2. In an embodiment, at least one dam-shaped portion DP may surround the second display element. The dam-shaped portion DP may include a first dam-shaped portion DP1 and a second dam-shaped portion DP2.

[0290] The first dam-shaped portion DP1 may surround a plurality of second pixels PX2. In an embodiment, the first dam-shaped portion DP1 may surround a first groove Gv1 and a fifth groove Gv5. In an embodiment, a portion of the first dam-shaped portion DP1 may extend in a direction spaced apart from each other by a plurality of extending regions LA. In one embodiment, for example, the first dam-shaped portion DP1 may extend along the edge of the central display area MDA. In such an embodiment, the first dam-shaped portion DP1 may be integrally formed into a single integral unit.

[0291] The second dam-shaped portion DP2 may be located between the first dam-shaped portion DP1 and the third pixel PX3. In an embodiment, the second dam-shaped portion DP2 may be located between the second groove Gv2 and the third groove Gv3. In such an embodiment, the second dam-shaped portion DP2 may extend in the direction in which the second groove Gv2 and / or the third groove Gv3 extend. The second dam-shaped portion DP2 may extend in a direction in which the plurality of extending regions LA are spaced apart from each other.

[0292] In one embodiment, the first auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP1 may be located between the second pixel PX2 and the first dam-shaped portion DP1. In another embodiment, the first auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP1 may be located between the first groove Gv1 and the fifth groove Gv5. Therefore, the first auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP1 may surround the second pixel PX2 and the first groove Gv1.

[0293] The second auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP2 may be located between the third pixel PX3 and the second dam-shaped portion DP2. In an embodiment, the second auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP2 may be located between the third groove Gv3 and the sixth groove Gv6. In such an embodiment, the second auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP2 may extend in the direction in which the third groove Gv3 and / or the sixth groove Gv6 extend. In one embodiment, for example, the second auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP2 may extend in a direction in which multiple extending regions LA are spaced apart from each other.

[0294] The first auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP1 and the second auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP2 can be located above the inorganic patterned layer PVX2 and can protrude in the thickness direction of the substrate. In such an embodiment, the thickness of the first auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP1 and the thickness of the second auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP2 can each be less than the thickness of the dam-shaped portion DP.

[0295] Figure 16A It is along Figure 15 The cross-sectional view taken by line XVI-XVI'. Figure 16B It is a diagram. Figure 16A Enlarged view of the grooves and dam-like sections. Figure 16A and Figure 16B In, with Figure 10A , Figure 10B and Figure 15 The same elements are indicated by the same reference numerals, and therefore any repeated detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0296] refer to Figure 16A and Figure 16B An embodiment of the display panel may include a corner display area CDA and a central display area MDA. The corner display area CDA may include a second thin-film transistor TFT2 and a second organic light-emitting diode OLED2, which is a second display element, and the central display area MDA may include a third organic light-emitting diode OLED3, which is a third display element. The second thin-film transistor TFT2 and the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2 may constitute a second sub-pixel in the corner display area CDA, and the third organic light-emitting diode OLED3 may constitute a third sub-pixel in the central display area MDA.

[0297] The outermost (or most outermost) OLED3 of the third OLED3 can be positioned at the edge of the third OLED3 closest to the central display area MDA, and can face the second OLED2 in the corner display area CDA.

[0298] In one embodiment, the display panel may include a recess Gv on the substrate 100, and the recess Gv may be recessed in the thickness direction of the substrate 100. In such an embodiment, the recess Gv may be located between the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2 and the third organic light-emitting diode OLED3. The lower layer of the recess Gv may be a second planarization layer 116.

[0299] Substrate 100, buffer layer 111, pixel circuit layer PCL, display element layer DEL, thin film encapsulation layer TFE, and optical functional layer OFL can be stacked in the central display area MDA and the corner display area CDA. The pixel circuit layer PCL may include an inorganic insulating layer IIL, interconnect wiring CL, a first planarization layer 115, a second planarization layer 116, and an inorganic pattern layer PVX2. The interconnect wiring CL may include a lower interconnect wiring LCL, a first interconnect wiring CL1, and a second interconnect wiring CL2.

[0300] In one embodiment, the lower connection wiring LCL may be located between the first gate insulating layer 112 and the second gate insulating layer 113. In an alternative embodiment, the lower connection wiring LCL may be located between the second gate insulating layer 113 and the interlayer insulating layer 114. In such an embodiment, the lower connection wiring LCL may include... Figure 8A The gate electrode GE and the upper electrode CE2 are made of the same material.

[0301] In an alternative embodiment, the lower connection wiring LCL may be located between the buffer layer 111 and the first gate insulating layer 112. In such an embodiment, the lower connection wiring LCL may include... Figure 8A The semiconductor layer Act is made of the same material.

[0302] The lower connection wiring (LCL) can extend from the central display area (MDA) to the corner display area (CDA). The lower connection wiring (LCL) can be a power wiring for supplying power or a signal line for applying electrical signals to the second organic light-emitting diode (OLED2).

[0303] The first connection wiring CL1 may be located on the inorganic insulating layer IIL, and the first planarization layer 115 may be located on the first connection wiring CL1. In one embodiment, the first planarization layer 115 may be divided by a groove Gv into a corner planarization layer 115C and an intermediate planarization layer 115M. In another embodiment, the first planarization layer 115 may be divided by a second groove Gv2 into a corner planarization layer 115C and an intermediate planarization layer 115M. In yet another embodiment, the corner planarization layer 115C may cover the second thin-film transistor TFT2, and the intermediate planarization layer 115M may cover the driving circuit transistor DC-TFT. In one embodiment, the corner planarization layer 115C and the intermediate planarization layer 115M may expose a portion of the first connection wiring CL1.

[0304] The second connection wiring CL2, the second connection electrode CML2, and the third connection electrode CML3 can be located on the first planarization layer 115. In such an embodiment, the second connection electrode CML2 can be located on the corner planarization layer 115C. In another embodiment, the third connection electrode CML3 can be defined by a portion of the second connection wiring CL2.

[0305] The third connection electrode CML3 can be located on the intermediate planarization layer 115M. In an embodiment, the third connection electrode CML3 can be connected to the first connection wiring CL1. In such an embodiment, the third connection electrode CML3 can extend from the intermediate planarization layer 115M to the corner planarization layer 115C and can cover the side surfaces of the intermediate planarization layer 115M and the corner planarization layer 115C facing each other. In such an embodiment, the third connection electrode CML3 can be connected to the first connection wiring CL1 exposed between the corner planarization layer 115C and the intermediate planarization layer 115M. Therefore, the first connection wiring CL1 and the third connection electrode CML3 can effectively prevent external moisture from penetrating into the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2 or the third organic light-emitting diode OLED3.

[0306] The lower inorganic patterning layer PVX1 may be located on the second connection wiring CL2 and the third connection electrode CML3. In an embodiment, multiple lower inorganic patterning layers PVX1 may be located on the second connection wiring CL2 and / or the third connection electrode CML3, and the multiple lower inorganic patterning layers PVX1 may be spaced apart from each other on the second connection wiring CL2 and / or the third connection electrode CML3. In such an embodiment, one of the multiple lower inorganic patterning layers PVX1 may cover the side surfaces of the intermediate planarization layer 115M and the corner planarization layer 115C facing each other.

[0307] The second planarization layer 116 may cover the second connection wiring CL2, the second connection electrode CML2, and the third connection electrode CML3. In an embodiment, the second planarization layer 116 may be a lower layer for defining the groove Gv. In such an embodiment, the aperture H may be defined to penetrate the second planarization layer 116, and the aperture H may correspond to the lower inorganic patterning layer PVX1. In such an embodiment, the second planarization layer 116 may cover the edge of the lower inorganic patterning layer PVX1. Therefore, the groove Gv may be defined by the central portion of the lower inorganic patterning layer PVX1 and the aperture H of the second planarization layer 116.

[0308] The inorganic patterned layer PVX2 may be located on the second planarization layer 116. In such an embodiment, the inorganic patterned layer PVX2 may be located on opposite sides of the groove Gv and may include a pair of protruding tips PT projecting toward the center of the groove Gv (see, for example...). Figure 10B ).

[0309] The first functional layer 212a, the second functional layer 212c, and the counter electrode 213 located on the inorganic patterned layer PVX2 can be separated by a groove Gv and a protruding tip PT. In such an embodiment, the first functional layer pattern 212Pa, the second functional layer pattern 212Pc, and the counter electrode pattern 213P can be located in the groove Gv.

[0310] A dam-shaped portion DP protruding in the thickness direction of the substrate 100 may be provided above the inorganic patterned layer PVX2. In an embodiment, the dam-shaped portion DP may include a first dam-shaped portion DP1 and a second dam-shaped portion DP2 spaced apart from each other.

[0311] In one embodiment, the first auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP1 may be located between the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2 and the first dam-shaped portion DP1. In another embodiment, the first auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP1 may be located between the first groove Gv1 and the fifth groove Gv5. In another embodiment, the second auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP2 may be located between the third organic light-emitting diode OLED3 and the second dam-shaped portion DP2. In yet another embodiment, the second auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP2 may be located between the third groove Gv3 and the sixth groove Gv6.

[0312] The first auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP1 and the second auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP2 may be located above the inorganic patterned layer PVX2 and may protrude in the thickness direction of the substrate 100. In such an embodiment, the first auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP1 and the second auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP2 may each comprise first layers 118c and 118d. In such an embodiment, each of the first layers 118c and 118d may comprise the same material as the pixel defining film 118.

[0313] In one embodiment, the thickness of the dam-shaped portion DP can be greater than the thickness of the first auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP1. In another embodiment, the thickness of the dam-shaped portion DP can be greater than the thickness of the second auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP2. In this embodiment, because the first dam-shaped portion DP1 and the second dam-shaped portion DP2 comprise first layers 118a and 118b and second layers 119a and 119b, and the first auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP1 and the second auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP2 comprise first layers 118c and 118d, the thickness of the dam-shaped portion DP can be different from the thickness of the first auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP1 and the second auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP2. In yet another embodiment, the thickness of the dam-shaped portion DP can be the distance from the top surface of the inorganic patterned layer PVX2 to the top surface of the second layers 119a and 119b. In such an embodiment, the thickness of the first auxiliary dam portion ADP1 or the thickness of the second auxiliary dam portion ADP2 can be the distance from the top surface of the inorganic pattern layer PVX2 to the top surface of the first layers 118c and 118d.

[0314] In one embodiment, the distance from the top surface of the substrate 100 to the top surfaces of the second layers 119a and 119b can be greater than the distance from the top surface of the substrate 100 to the top surface of the first layer 118c of the first auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP1. In another embodiment, the distance from the top surface of the substrate 100 to the top surfaces of the second layers 119a and 119b can be greater than the distance from the top surface of the substrate 100 to the top surface of the first layer 118d of the second auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP2.

[0315] In the embodiment, the second layers 119a and 119b of the dam-shaped portion DP can perform the same as... Figure 8A The isolator 119 functions similarly to the isolator. In one embodiment of the method of manufacturing a display panel, for example, the second layers 119a and 119b of the dam-shaped portion DP can prevent damage to at least one of the pixel circuit layer PCL and display element layer DEL due to the mask. In such an embodiment, the second layers 119a and 119b of the dam-shaped portion DP can contact the mask, and the shape of the second layers 119a and 119b of the dam-shaped portion DP can be deformable.

[0316] If the shape of the second layers 119a and 119b of the dam-shaped portion DP is deformed, the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can be formed along the deformed shape of the second layers 119a and 119b of the dam-shaped portion DP, thereby reducing the barrier characteristics.

[0317] In this embodiment, the first auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP1 and the second auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP2 can be located between the organic light-emitting diode (OLED) and the dam-shaped portion DP. In such an embodiment, the thickness of the first auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP1 and the thickness of the second auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP2 are each less than the thickness of the dam-shaped portion DP, such that the first auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP1 and the second auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP2 do not contact the mask. Therefore, the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can be formed on the top surfaces of the first auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP1 and the second auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP2, which are both flat and undeformed. Therefore, the time it takes for external air or moisture to reach the OLED can be delayed. Therefore, the barrier properties of the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can be improved.

[0318] The optical functional layer (OFL) may be located on the thin-film encapsulation layer (TFE). In an embodiment, the optical functional layer (OFL) may include a light-shielding pattern 410, a color filter 420, and an outer coating 430. The light-shielding pattern 410 can prevent quality degradation due to external light by at least partially absorbing external light or internally reflecting light. The light-shielding pattern 410 may include black pigment.

[0319] Color filter 420 may include a color filter corresponding to each organic light-emitting diode (OLED). In one embodiment, for example, when the OLED's emission layer emits blue, green, or red light, color filter 420 may include a blue, green, or red color filter depending on the color of the light emitted by the emission layer of each OLED. In one embodiment, for example, when the OLED's emission layer emits red light, the color filter 420 on the OLED's emission layer may be a red color filter with high transmittance in the red band.

[0320] The outer coating 430 may be located on the light-shielding pattern 410 and the color filter 420. The outer coating 430 may be integrally formed in the corner display area CDA and the central display area MDA. In an embodiment, the outer coating 430 may be located in the second recess Gv2 and may fill the second recess Gv2. The top surface of the outer coating 430 may be substantially flat, and the outer coating 430 may include organic materials such as acrolein, benzocyclobutene (“BCB”), or hexamethyldisiloxane (“HMDSO”).

[0321] In this embodiment, the input sensing layer may be located between the optical functional layer OFL and the thin-film encapsulation layer TFE.

[0322] Figure 17 It is along Figure 15 A cross-sectional view taken from line XVII-XVII'. Figure 17 In, with Figure 16A and Figure 16BThe same elements are indicated by the same reference numerals, and therefore any repeated detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0323] refer to Figure 17 In this embodiment, the driving circuit transistor DC-TFT can be located on the substrate 100 in the intermediate display area MDA, and the first planarization layer 115 and the second planarization layer 116 can cover the driving circuit transistor DC-TFT. The inner organic light-emitting diode (IOLED3) and the outer organic light-emitting diode (OOLED3) can be located on the second planarization layer 116. In such an embodiment, the outer organic light-emitting diode (OOLED3) can be located between the sixth groove Gv6 and the inner organic light-emitting diode (IOLED3). The thin-film encapsulation layer TFE can be located on the outer organic light-emitting diode (OOLED3) and the inner organic light-emitting diode (IOLED3).

[0324] In one embodiment, the second planarization layer 116 may include a recessed portion (or a concave portion) CCP between the inner organic light-emitting diode IOLED3 and the outer organic light-emitting diode OOLED3. In such an embodiment, the recessed portion CCP may be defined by the top surface of the second planarization layer 116 and the side surface of the second planarization layer 116 facing each other between the inner organic light-emitting diode IOLED3 and the outer organic light-emitting diode OOLED3.

[0325] In one embodiment, a first distance d1 from the top surface of the substrate 100 to the top surface of the second planarization layer 116 may be defined between the inner organic light-emitting diode (IOLED) 3 and the outer organic light-emitting diode (OOLED) 3, and a second distance d2 from the top surface of the substrate 100 to the top surface of the pixel-defining film 118 of the second planarization layer 116 may be defined between the inner organic light-emitting diode (IOLED) 3 and the outer organic light-emitting diode (OOLED) 3. In such an embodiment, the first distance d1 may be smaller than the second distance d2.

[0326] When the second planarization layer 116 is formed, the recessed portion CCP can be formed by using a halftone mask.

[0327] In one embodiment, the second planarization layer 116 may include a recessed portion CCP between the inner organic light-emitting diode (IOLED3) and the outer organic light-emitting diode (OOLED3). Therefore, when the organic encapsulation layer 320 of the thin-film encapsulation layer TFE is formed, the reflow of the organic material used to form the organic encapsulation layer 320 can be controlled. In such an embodiment, because the recessed portion CCP is provided between the inner organic light-emitting diode (IOLED3) and the outer organic light-emitting diode (OOLED3), the top surface of the organic encapsulation layer 320 can be planar. In such an embodiment, the recessed portion CCP can prevent or reduce the overflow of organic material used to form the organic encapsulation layer 320. Figure 16A The second dam-like part DP2.

[0328] The inorganic pattern layer PVX2 can be located on the second planarization layer 116. The inorganic pattern layer PVX2 can be located on the opposite side of the sixth recess Gv6. In such an embodiment, the inorganic pattern layer PVX2 can be located between the sixth recess Gv6 and the external organic light-emitting diode OOLED3 in the intermediate display area MDA.

[0329] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the inorganic pattern layer PVX2 may overlap with the external pixel electrode 211O of the external organic light-emitting diode (OOLED) 3. In such an embodiment, the external pixel electrode 211O may include a stepped portion.

[0330] Figure 18 It is along Figure 15 A cross-sectional view taken from line XVIII-XVIII'. Figure 19 It is along Figure 15 A cross-sectional view taken from line XIX-XIX'. Figure 18 and Figure 19 In, with Figure 15 and Figure 16A as well as Figure 16B The same elements are indicated by the same reference numerals, and therefore any repeated detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0331] refer to Figure 18 and Figure 19 In one embodiment, the corner display area may include a plurality of extended areas extending from the central display area, and a through-portion PNP may be provided between adjacent extended areas. A second organic light-emitting diode (OLED2) may be located in the extended areas. Each of the plurality of extended areas includes a first extended area LA1 and a second extended area LA2, and the second extended areas LA2 may be integrally formed with each other by connecting them. Therefore, the through-portion PNP may be defined by the edges of adjacent first extended areas LA1.

[0332] refer to Figure 18 The pixel circuit layer PCL, the display element layer DEL, and the thin-film encapsulation layer TFE can be located in the second extended region LA2. The pixel circuit layer PCL may include a second thin-film transistor TFT2, a first connection wiring CL1, a second connection wiring CL2, an inorganic insulating layer IIL, a first planarization layer 115, a second planarization layer 116, and an inorganic patterning layer PVX2. The display element layer DEL may include a second organic light-emitting diode OLED2.

[0333] The first groove Gv1, the fifth groove Gv5, and the seventh groove Gv7 can be located in the second extended region LA2. In such an embodiment, the first auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP1 can be located between the first groove Gv1 and the fifth groove Gv5, and the first dam-shaped portion DP1 can be located between the fifth groove Gv5 and the seventh groove Gv7.

[0334] In one embodiment, the substrate 100 and the inorganic insulating layer 1IL can be continuously positioned. In another embodiment, the first planarization layer 115 can be separated by a seventh groove Gv7. In one embodiment, for example, the first planarization layer 115 can be separated by the seventh groove Gv7 into a first corner planarization layer 115C1 and a second corner planarization layer 115C2. In another embodiment, the inorganic insulating layer 1IL can also be separated by the seventh groove Gv7.

[0335] The second connection wiring CL2 and the second connection electrode CML2 may be located on the first planarization layer 115. In an embodiment, the second connection electrode CML2 may be defined by a portion of the second connection wiring CL2.

[0336] In one embodiment, the second connection wiring CL2 may cover the first corner planarization layer 115C1 and the second corner planarization layer 115C2. In one embodiment, for example, the second connection wiring CL2 may cover the side surfaces of the first corner planarization layer 115C1 and the second corner planarization layer 115C2 that face each other. The second connection wiring CL2 may be connected to the first connection wiring CL1 exposed between the first corner planarization layer 115C1 and the second corner planarization layer 115C2. Therefore, the first connection wiring CL1 and the second connection wiring CL2 can prevent external moisture from penetrating into the second organic light-emitting diode OLED 2.

[0337] The lower inorganic pattern layer PVX1 may be located on the second connection wiring CL2. Multiple lower inorganic pattern layers PVX1 may be located on the second connection wiring CL2, and the multiple lower inorganic pattern layers PVX1 may be spaced apart from each other on the second connection wiring CL2. In an embodiment, one of the multiple lower inorganic pattern layers PVX1 may cover the side surfaces of the first corner planarization layer 115C1 and the second corner planarization layer 115C2 that face each other.

[0338] In this embodiment, the organic encapsulation layer 320 may be separated by a first dam-shaped portion DP1 and a seventh groove Gv7.

[0339] refer to Figure 19The pixel circuit layer PCL, the display element layer DEL, and the thin-film encapsulation layer TFE can be located in the first extended region LA1. The pixel circuit layer PCL may include a second thin-film transistor TFT2, a first connection wiring CL1, a second connection wiring CL2, an inorganic insulating layer IIL, a first planarization layer 115, a second planarization layer 116, and an inorganic patterning layer PVX2. The display element layer DEL may include a second organic light-emitting diode OLED2.

[0340] Each of the first groove Gv1 and the fifth groove Gv5 may be located in the first extended region LA1. In such an embodiment, the first auxiliary dam-shaped portion ADP1 may be located between the first groove Gv1 and the fifth groove Gv5, and the first dam-shaped portion DP1 may be located between the fifth groove Gv5 and the through portion PNP.

[0341] In this embodiment, the substrate 100, the inorganic insulating layer 1IL, the first planarization layer 115, the second planarization layer 116, and the thin film encapsulation layer TFE can be separated by a through-hole PNP.

[0342] Figure 20A The figure shows simulation results of the deformation of the thin-film encapsulation layer when the corner display area includes multiple extended areas. Figure 20B The illustration shows the simulation results of the deformation of the thin-film encapsulation layer when the corner display area is formed as a whole.

[0343] When the maximum strain of the thin-film encapsulation layer in a bent state in the corner display area is equal to or less than 0.7%, the stability of the display element can be ensured.

[0344] refer to Figure 20A It was found that when the corner display area includes multiple extended areas, the maximum strain of the thin film encapsulation layer is 0.31% when the corner display area is bent.

[0345] refer to Figure 20B It was found that when the corner display area was formed integrally, the maximum strain of the thin film encapsulation layer was 1% when the corner display area was bent.

[0346] Therefore, in embodiments of the present invention where the corner display area includes multiple extended areas, the stability of the display elements located in the multiple extended areas can be ensured.

[0347] Figure 21A and Figure 21B These are plan views of the corner display area CDA and the intermediate display area MDA, respectively, according to alternative embodiments. Figure 21A and Figure 21B In, with Figure 15The same elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and therefore any repeated detailed descriptions will be omitted. Except for the central recess MGv provided in the central display area MDA, Figure 21A and Figure 21B Implementation examples and Figure 15 The embodiments are basically the same.

[0348] refer to Figure 21A In one embodiment, the corner display area CDA may include a plurality of extension areas LA extending from the intermediate display area MDA, and the through portion PNP may be provided between adjacent extension areas LA. In such an embodiment, a second pixel PX2 including a second display element may be located in the extension area LA, and a third pixel PX3 including a third display element may be located in the intermediate display area MDA.

[0349] In one embodiment, the intermediate display area MDA may include a first intermediate display area MDA1 and a second intermediate display area MDA2. In such an embodiment, the second intermediate display area MDA2 may be located between the first intermediate display area MDA1 and the corner display area CDA.

[0350] The intermediate recess MGv can be located between the first intermediate display area MDA1 and the second intermediate display area MDA2. The intermediate display area MDA can be divided into the first intermediate display area MDA1 and the second intermediate display area MDA2 by the intermediate recess MGv. The intermediate recess MGv can be... Figure 9 The grooves Gv are the same or similar.

[0351] The central recess MGv can extend in a direction that is spaced apart from each other by multiple extension regions LA. In one embodiment, for example, the central recess MGv can extend in one direction. Alternatively, the central recess MGv can extend along the edge of the central display area MDA.

[0352] In one embodiment, the inorganic patterned layer PVX2 may be located on the opposite side of the intermediate recess MGv and may include a pair of protruding tips projecting toward the center of the intermediate recess MGv. Therefore, the counter electrode 213 formed in the intermediate display area MDA may be separated by the intermediate recess MGv and the inorganic patterned layer PVX2. In one embodiment, for example, the first pair of electrodes 213A may be located in the first intermediate display area MDA1, and the second pair of electrodes 213B may be located in the second intermediate display area MDA2.

[0353] In an embodiment, the first contact hole CNT1 and the second contact hole CNT2 may be defined to penetrate at least one of a plurality of layers stacked in the intermediate display area MDA, so as to correspond to the first intermediate display area MDA1 and the second intermediate display area MDA2, respectively.

[0354] The third pixel PX3 located in the first intermediate display area MDA1 can be connected to the connection wiring CL through the first contact hole CNT1 to receive the second power supply voltage. In one embodiment, the first pair of electrodes 213A located in the first intermediate display area MDA1 can be connected to the connection wiring CL through the first contact hole CNT1. In another embodiment, the third pixel PX3 located in the second intermediate display area MDA2 can be connected to the connection wiring CL through the second contact hole CNT2 to receive the second power supply voltage. In such an embodiment, the second pair of electrodes 213B located in the second intermediate display area MDA2 can be connected to the connection wiring CL through the second contact hole CNT2.

[0355] refer to Figure 21B In an alternative embodiment, the corner display area CDA may include a plurality of extension areas LA extending from the intermediate display area MDA, and the through portion PNP may be provided between adjacent extension areas LA. In such an embodiment, a second pixel PX2 including a second display element may be located in the extension area LA, and a third pixel PX3 including a third display element may be located in the intermediate display area MDA.

[0356] In one embodiment, a plurality of third pixels PX3 may be provided in the intermediate display area MDA. In such an embodiment, an intermediate recess MGv may surround each of the plurality of third pixels PX3. In such an embodiment, an inorganic pattern layer PVX2 may be located on opposite sides of the intermediate recess MGv and may include a pair of protruding tips projecting toward the center of the intermediate recess MGv. Therefore, counter electrodes 213 formed in the intermediate display area MDA may be spaced apart from each other to correspond to the plurality of third pixels PX3 respectively.

[0357] In one embodiment, the intermediate contact hole MCNT may be defined to extend through at least one of a plurality of layers stacked in the intermediate display area MDA, corresponding to each of a plurality of third pixels PX3. In such an embodiment, each of the plurality of third pixels PX3 located in the intermediate display area MDA may be connected to the connection wiring CL via the intermediate contact hole MCNT to receive a second power supply voltage. In such an embodiment, each of the counter electrodes 213 located in the intermediate display area MDA may be connected to the connection wiring CL via the intermediate contact hole MCNT.

[0358] Figure 22 This is an enlarged view of a portion of the display panel according to an alternative embodiment. Figure 23 This is a plan view of the corner display area CDA according to another embodiment. Figure 22 In, with Figure 5AThe same elements are indicated by the same reference numerals, and therefore any repeated detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0359] refer to Figure 22 and Figure 23 An embodiment of the display panel may include a display area and a peripheral area, and the display area may include a front display area FDA, a first side display area SDA1 and a second side display area SDA2, a corner display area CDA and a middle display area MDA.

[0360] The first pixel PX1 can be located in the front display area FDA, the second pixel PX2 can be located in the corner display area CDA, and the third pixel PX3 can be located in the middle display area MDA.

[0361] The corner display area CDA may include a pixel arrangement area PDA and a connecting area CA. The second pixel PX2 may be located within the pixel arrangement area PDA. Multiple pixel arrangement areas PDA may be provided within the corner display area CDA, and these multiple pixel arrangement areas PDA may be spaced apart from each other.

[0362] A connecting region CA can be used to connect an intermediate display area MDA to a pixel arrangement area PDA. In one embodiment, the connecting region CA can extend from the intermediate display area MDA in a serpentine shape. In one embodiment, for example, the connecting region CA may include a direction-changing region whose extension direction changes at least twice. Alternatively, the connecting region CA can extend in a sinusoidal shape.

[0363] Multiple connection areas CA can be provided in the corner display area CDA, and the multiple connection areas CA can be spaced apart from each other. Connection wiring can be located in the connection areas CA. In one embodiment, for example, the connection wiring can be power wiring for supplying voltage and / or signal lines for transmitting electrical signals to the second pixel PX2.

[0364] In one embodiment, adjacent connection regions CA can be symmetrically arranged in a direction that separates the pixel arrangement regions PDA from each other. In one embodiment, for example, the first connection region CA1 and the second connection region CA2 can extend from the central display region MDA in a serpentine shape, and each of the first pixel arrangement regions PDA1 and the second pixel arrangement region PDA2 can be connected to the first connection region CA1 and the second connection region CA2. In such an embodiment, adjacent first connection regions CA1 and the second connection region CA2 can be symmetrically arranged in a direction that separates the adjacent first pixel arrangement regions PDA1 and the second pixel arrangement regions PDA2 from each other.

[0365] Adjacent pixel arrangement areas PDA and adjacent connecting areas CA can define a through region PNA. In an embodiment, a closed curve CC can define the area between adjacent pixel arrangement areas PDA and adjacent connecting areas CA, and the blank space inside the closed curve CC can be defined as the through region PNA. In such an embodiment, the pixel arrangement area PDA, the intermediate display area MDA, and the adjacent connecting area CA can define the through region PNA.

[0366] In such an embodiment, because the corner display area CDA includes pixel arrangement areas PDA spaced apart from each other and a connection area CA for connecting the pixel arrangement areas PDA to the intermediate display area MDA, a portion of the corner display area CDA can be stretched, while another portion of the corner display area CDA can be contracted.

[0367] Figure 24 It is along Figure 22 A cross-sectional view taken from line XXIV-XXIV'. Figure 25 It is along Figure 23 A cross-sectional view taken from line XXV-XXV'. Figure 24 and Figure 25 In, with Figure 10A and Figure 10B The same elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and therefore any repeated detailed descriptions will be omitted. In addition to providing a through-area PNA around the central display area MDA and the corner display area CDA, Figure 24 and Figure 25 Implementation examples and Figure 10A and Figure 10B The embodiments are basically the same.

[0368] refer to Figure 24 and Figure 25 An embodiment of the display panel may include a corner display area CDA and a central display area MDA. The corner display area CDA may include a second thin-film transistor TFT2 and a second organic light-emitting diode OLED2, which is a second display element, and the central display area MDA may include a third organic light-emitting diode OLED3, which is a third display element.

[0369] The corner display area CDA includes a pixel arrangement area PDA and a connecting area, and the connecting area can be used to connect the intermediate display area MDA to the pixel arrangement area PDA. In such an embodiment, adjacent pixel arrangement areas PDA and adjacent connecting areas can define a through area PNA, and the pixel arrangement area PDA, the intermediate display area MDA, and the adjacent connecting area can define the through area PNA.

[0370] In such an embodiment, the display panel may include a recess Gv on the substrate 100, and the recess Gv may be recessed in the thickness direction of the substrate 100. In such an embodiment, the recess Gv in the pixel arrangement region PDA may be located between the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2 and the through region PNA. In such an embodiment, the recess Gv in the intermediate display region MDA may be located between the third organic light-emitting diode OLED3 and the through region PNA.

[0371] In one embodiment, the recess Gv may be located between the second OLED2 and the third OLED3. In one embodiment, for example, one of the pixel arrangement regions PDA and the intermediate display region MDA may be positioned such that a through region PNA exists between them. In such an embodiment, the recess Gv may be located between the second OLED2 and the through region PNA in one of the pixel arrangement regions PDA. In such an embodiment, the recess Gv may be located between the third OLED3 and the through region PNA in the intermediate display region MDA. Therefore, the recess Gv may be located between the second OLED2 and the third OLED3.

[0372] The inorganic patterned layer PVX2 may be located on the second planarization layer 116. In such an embodiment, the inorganic patterned layer PVX2 may be located on the opposite side of the groove Gv and may include a pair of protruding tips PT projecting toward the center of the groove Gv.

[0373] In such an embodiment, the first functional layer 212a, the second functional layer 212c, and the counter electrode 213 located on the inorganic patterned layer PVX2 can be separated by a groove Gv and a protruding tip PT. In such an embodiment, the first functional layer pattern 212Pa, the second functional layer pattern 212Pc, and the counter electrode pattern 213P can be located in the groove Gv.

[0374] refer to Figure 24 The dam-shaped portion DP can be located between the third organic light-emitting diode OLED3 of the intermediate display area MDA and the through area PNA. In such an embodiment, the dam-shaped portion DP can be located above the inorganic pattern layer PVX2 and can protrude in the thickness direction of the substrate 100.

[0375] In an embodiment, multiple dam-shaped portions DP and / or multiple grooves Gv can be provided. In one embodiment, for example, the dam-shaped portion DP may include a first dam-shaped portion DP1-1 and a second dam-shaped portion DP2-1, and the groove Gv may include a first groove Gv1-1 and a second groove Gv2-1. In this case, the first groove Gv1-1, the first dam-shaped portion DP1-1, the second groove Gv2-1, and the second dam-shaped portion DP2-1 may be arranged sequentially in a direction from the central display area MDA to the through area PNA.

[0376] The thin-film encapsulation layer TFE can cover the third organic light-emitting diode OLED3. In such an embodiment, the thin-film encapsulation layer TFE can extend from the third organic light-emitting diode OLED3 to the dam-shaped portion DP.

[0377] The first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can completely and continuously cover the intermediate display area MDA. In an embodiment, the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can be completely and continuously located in the groove Gv and on the dam-shaped portion DP. In such an embodiment, the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can cover the first functional layer pattern 212Pa, the second functional layer pattern 212Pc, and the counter electrode pattern 213P located inside the groove Gv. The first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can contact the inorganic pattern layer PVX2. In an embodiment, the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can contact the protruding tip PT of the inorganic pattern layer PVX2.

[0378] In an embodiment, the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 may cover the side surfaces of the substrate 100, the buffer layer 111, the inorganic insulating layer 111, and the first planarization layer 115 facing the through region PNA.

[0379] The organic encapsulation layer 320 can extend from the third organic light-emitting diode OLED3 to the dam-shaped portion DP and can fill the groove Gv. In one embodiment, for example, the organic encapsulation layer 320 can extend from the third organic light-emitting diode OLED3 to the first dam-shaped portion DP1-1 and can fill the first groove Gv1-1. In such an embodiment, the organic encapsulation layer 320 can be controlled by the first dam-shaped portion DP1-1 and the second dam-shaped portion DP2-1. In this case, the organic encapsulation layer 320 may not fill the second groove Gv2-1.

[0380] Like the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310, the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 can completely and continuously cover the intermediate display area MDA. In one embodiment, the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 can contact the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 on the first dam-shaped portion DP1-1 and the second dam-shaped portion DP2-1. In such an embodiment, the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 can contact the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 in the second groove Gv2-1. The second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 can cover the side surfaces of the substrate 100, the buffer layer 111, the inorganic insulating layer 111, and the first planarization layer 115 facing the through-region PNA.

[0381] refer to Figure 25 The second organic light-emitting diode (OLED2) in the pixel arrangement region PDA can be surrounded by a dam-shaped portion DP and a groove Gv. In one embodiment, for example, the dam-shaped portion DP and the groove Gv can be located between the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2 and the through region PNA.

[0382] In some embodiments, a plurality of dam-shaped portions DP and / or a plurality of grooves Gv may be provided. In one embodiment, for example, the grooves Gv may include a first groove Gv1-2 and a second groove Gv2-2. In such an embodiment, the first groove Gv1-2, the dam-shaped portions DP, and the second groove Gv2-2 may be arranged sequentially in a direction from the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2 to the through region PNA.

[0383] The thin-film encapsulation layer TFE can cover the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2. In such an embodiment, the thin-film encapsulation layer TFE can extend from the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2 to the dam-shaped portion DP.

[0384] The first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can completely and continuously cover the pixel arrangement area PDA. In an embodiment, the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can be completely and continuously located in the groove Gv and on the dam-shaped portion DP. In such an embodiment, the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can cover the first functional layer pattern 212Pa, the second functional layer pattern 212Pc, and the counter electrode pattern 213P located inside the groove Gv. The first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can contact the inorganic pattern layer PVX2. In an embodiment, the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 can contact the protruding tip PT of the inorganic pattern layer PVX2.

[0385] In an embodiment, the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 may cover the side surfaces of the substrate 100, the buffer layer 111, the inorganic insulating layer 111, and the first planarization layer 115 facing the through region PNA.

[0386] The organic encapsulation layer 320 can extend from the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2 to the dam-shaped portion DP and can fill the groove Gv. In one embodiment, for example, the organic encapsulation layer 320 can extend from the second organic light-emitting diode OLED2 to the dam-shaped portion DP and can fill the first groove Gv1-2. In such an embodiment, the organic encapsulation layer 320 can be controlled by the dam-shaped portion DP. In such an embodiment, the organic encapsulation layer 320 may not fill the second groove Gv2-2. Therefore, the organic encapsulation layer 320 can be located in each pixel arrangement area PDA, and the organic encapsulation layer 320 of the intermediate display area MDA and the organic encapsulation layer 320 of the pixel arrangement area PDA can be separated from each other.

[0387] Like the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310, the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 can completely and continuously cover the pixel arrangement area PDA. In one embodiment, the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 can contact the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 on the dam-shaped portion DP. In such an embodiment, the second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 can contact the first inorganic encapsulation layer 310 in the second groove Gv2-2. The second inorganic encapsulation layer 330 can cover the side surfaces of the substrate 100, the buffer layer 111, the inorganic insulating layer 111, and the first planarization layer 115 facing the through-region PNA.

[0388] Figure 26 It is along Figure 23 The cross-sectional view taken from line XXVI-XXVI'.

[0389] refer to Figure 26 The substrate 100, buffer layer 111, inorganic insulating layer 111, first planarization layer 115, second planarization layer 116, lower organic insulating layer 111, and connection wiring CL can be located in the connection region CA. In an embodiment, the connection wiring CL can include a first connection wiring CL1 and a second connection wiring CL2. Each of the first connection wiring CL1 and the second connection wiring CL2 can be a power wiring for applying an electrical signal or voltage to the pixel arrangement area. The first connection wiring CL1 and the second connection wiring CL2 in the connection region CA can be respectively connected to the pixel arrangement area CA. Figure 25 The first connection wiring CL1 and the second connection wiring CL2 in the pixel arrangement area of ​​the PDA.

[0390] In one embodiment, the buffer layer 111 and the inorganic insulating layer 111 may be located on a portion of the substrate 100, and the lower organic insulating layer 111 may be located on another portion of the substrate 100. Like the first planarization layer 115 or the second planarization layer 116, the lower organic insulating layer 111 may comprise an organic insulating material such as polyimide. The lower organic insulating layer 111 may reduce stress on the edge portions of the substrate 100. In an alternative embodiment, the buffer layer 111 and the inorganic insulating layer 111 may be omitted, and the lower organic insulating layer 111 may be located entirely on the substrate 100.

[0391] The first connection wiring CL1 may be located on the substrate 100, and the first planarization layer 115 may cover the first connection wiring CL1. The second connection wiring CL2 may be located on the first planarization layer 115, and the second planarization layer 116 may cover the second connection wiring CL2.

[0392] In an embodiment, the corner display area CDA may include a plurality of extension areas LA extending from the central display area MDA. In such an embodiment, the corner display area CDA can be contracted. In an embodiment, the corner display area CDA may include a pixel arrangement area PDA and a connection area CA connected to the pixel arrangement area PDA. Therefore, a portion of the corner display area CDA can be stretched, while another portion of the corner display area CDA can be contracted (see, for example...). Figure 21B , Figure 22 and Figure 23 ).

[0393] According to embodiments of the invention described herein, a stretchable and / or retractable corner display area is included in the display panel, thereby enabling the display panel and the display device including the display panel to have improved reliability.

[0394] In such embodiments, a corner display area capable of displaying an image is included, allowing the non-display area to be reduced.

[0395] This invention should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the inventive concept to those skilled in the art.

[0396] Although the invention has been specifically shown and described with reference to embodiments thereof, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display panel, comprising: The substrate includes: A front display area, wherein a first display element is located in the front display area; A first side display area is connected to the front display area in a first direction; The second side display area is connected to the front display area in a second direction intersecting the first direction; A corner display area, located between the first side display area and the second side display area, wherein the corner display area at least partially surrounds the front display area, and a second display element is located in the corner display area; and A central display area, located between the front display area and the corner display area, wherein a third display element is located in the central display area, and wherein a recess is defined on the substrate and is recessed in the thickness direction of the substrate; and An inorganic patterned layer is located on the opposite side of the groove on the substrate. The inorganic patterned layer includes a pair of protruding tips that project toward the center of the groove. The groove is located between the second display element and the third display element, and At least a portion of the groove extends along the boundary between the corner display area and the middle display area.

2. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein, The corner display area includes multiple extended areas extending from the central display area. The penetrating portion is confined between adjacent extended regions, and The second display element is located in the plurality of extended areas.

3. The display panel according to claim 2, wherein, The groove surrounds the second display element.

4. The display panel according to claim 2, further comprising: The dam-shaped portion protrudes above the inorganic patterned layer and in the thickness direction of the substrate. The dam-shaped portion includes a first dam-shaped portion and a second dam-shaped portion. The first dam-shaped portion surrounds the second display element, and the second dam-shaped portion extends along the corner display area.

5. The display panel according to claim 4, wherein, Each of the plurality of extended regions includes a first extended region and a second extended region between the first extended region and the intermediate display region. The second extension regions of the plurality of extension regions are connected to each other as a single entity, and the groove is located between the first dam-shaped portions of adjacent extension regions.

6. The display panel according to claim 4, further comprising: A first auxiliary dam-shaped portion is located above the inorganic pattern layer and between the second display element and the first dam-shaped portion, and protrudes in the thickness direction of the substrate. The thickness of the first dam-shaped portion is greater than the thickness of the first auxiliary dam-shaped portion.

7. The display panel according to claim 2, further comprising: A planarization layer is located on the substrate. The planarization layer is divided into a corner planarization layer and a middle planarization layer by the groove. The second display element is on the corner planarization layer, and the third display element is on the intermediate planarization layer.

8. The display panel according to claim 2, wherein, The third display element includes an inner display element and an outer display element adjacent to the groove. The external display element includes a pixel electrode and a counter electrode, and The pixel electrode covers at least a portion of the inorganic pattern layer.

9. The display panel according to claim 2, further comprising: A planarization layer is placed between the substrate and the third display element. The third display element includes an inner display element and an outer display element adjacent to the recess, and The planarization layer includes a recessed portion between the inner display element and the outer display element.

10. The display panel according to claim 2, further comprising: Connecting wiring is provided on the substrate and extends from the central display area to the plurality of extended areas. The second display element includes a pixel electrode, an intermediate layer, and a counter electrode. The connecting wiring and the counter electrode are connected to each other at the end portions of the plurality of extended regions.

11. The display panel according to claim 10, further comprising: A planarization layer is located between the connection wiring and the second display element. The contact holes are defined to penetrate the planarization layer to expose the connection wiring, and The connecting wiring and the counter electrode are connected to each other through the pixel electrode pattern in the contact hole.

12. The display panel according to claim 2, further comprising: Connecting wiring is provided on the substrate and extends from the central display area to the plurality of extended areas. Among them, multiple second display elements are located in one of the multiple extended regions. The plurality of second display elements each include counter electrodes spaced apart from each other, and Each of the counter electrodes is connected to the connection wiring.

13. The display panel according to claim 2, wherein, The third display element includes a pixel electrode and a counter electrode. The intermediate display area includes a first intermediate display area and a second intermediate display area located between the first intermediate display area and the corner display area. The display panel further includes: The connecting wiring is located in the central display area; and The central recess is defined between the first central display area and the second central display area. Each of the counter electrode of the third display element in the first intermediate display area and the counter electrode of the third display element in the second intermediate display area is connected to the connection wiring through a contact hole.

14. The display panel according to claim 2, wherein, The third display element includes a pixel electrode and a counter electrode, and multiple third display elements are provided in the intermediate display area. The display panel further includes: Connecting wiring in the central display area; and A central recess is defined in the central display area to surround each of the plurality of third display elements. In the intermediate display area, the counter electrodes of the plurality of third display elements are spaced apart from each other by the intermediate groove and are each connected to the connection wiring.

15. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein, The corner display area includes: Pixel arrangement areas, wherein the second display element is located in each of the pixel arrangement areas; and The connection area connects the pixel arrangement area to the intermediate display area. The adjacent pixel arrangement area and the adjacent connection area define the through area. The display panel further includes connecting wiring extending from the central display area to the pixel arrangement area.

16. The display panel according to claim 15, wherein, The connecting area extends from the central display area in a serpentine shape, and Adjacent connection regions are arranged symmetrically in the direction that the pixel arrangement regions are spaced apart from each other.

17. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein, The second display element includes a pixel electrode, an intermediate layer including an emissive layer, and a counter electrode. The intermediate layer includes: A first functional layer is located between the pixel electrode and the emitter layer; and The second functional layer is located between the counter electrode and the emitter layer. The counter electrode and at least one selected from the first functional layer and the second functional layer are separated by the pair of protruding tips and the groove.

18. The display panel according to claim 1, further comprising: The dam-shaped portion protrudes above the inorganic patterned layer and in the thickness direction of the substrate; and A thin-film encapsulation layer covers the second display element and the third display element, wherein the thin-film encapsulation layer includes an inorganic encapsulation layer and an organic encapsulation layer. The thin-film encapsulation layer extends from the second display element and the third display element to the dam-shaped portion, and the organic encapsulation layer is separated by the dam-shaped portion.

19. The display panel according to claim 1, further comprising: An inorganic insulating layer is present on the substrate; Connecting wiring is provided on the inorganic insulating layer and extends from the central display area to the corner display area; The lower inorganic pattern layer is on the connecting wiring; and A lower layer, covering the edge of the lower inorganic patterned layer, wherein holes are defined to penetrate the lower layer to correspond to the lower inorganic patterned layer. The groove is defined by the hole and the central portion of the lower inorganic patterned layer.

20. The display panel according to claim 1, further comprising: An inorganic insulating layer is present on the substrate; Connecting wiring is provided on the inorganic insulating layer and extends from the central display area to the corner display area; The lower inorganic layer is located on the connecting wiring. and The lower layer includes a first planarization layer and a second planarization layer, wherein holes are defined to penetrate the lower layer to expose a portion of the lower inorganic layer. The groove is defined by the portion of the lower inorganic layer and the hole.

21. The display panel according to claim 1, further comprising: An inorganic insulating layer is present on the substrate; Connecting wiring is provided on the inorganic insulating layer and extends from the central display area to the corner display area; A metallic patterned layer is applied to the connecting wiring. and A lower layer covers the edge of the metal pattern layer, wherein holes are defined to penetrate the lower layer to correspond to the metal pattern layer. The groove is defined by the hole and the central portion of the metal pattern layer.

22. A display device, comprising: A display panel includes: a front display area, a corner display area at a bend in the front display area, and an intermediate display area between the front display area and the corner display area, wherein a first display element is in the front display area, a second display element is in the corner display area, and a third display element is in the intermediate display area; and Cover window, cover the display panel. The corner display area includes multiple extended areas extending from the central display area. Wherein, the second display element is located in the plurality of extended regions, The display panel includes: A substrate, wherein a recessed groove in the thickness direction of the substrate is defined on the substrate; and An inorganic patterned layer, on opposite sides of the groove, includes a pair of protruding tips projecting toward the center of the groove. The groove is located between the second display element and the third display element, and At least a portion of the groove extends along the boundary between the corner display area and the middle display area.

23. The display device according to claim 22, wherein, The second display element includes a pixel electrode, an intermediate layer including an emissive layer, and a counter electrode. The intermediate layer includes: A first functional layer is located between the pixel electrode and the emitter layer; and A second functional layer is located between the counter electrode and the emitter layer, and Wherein, at least one of the first functional layer and the second functional layer, as well as the counter electrode, are separated by the pair of protruding tips and the groove.

24. The display device according to claim 22, wherein, The groove surrounds the second display element.

25. The display device according to claim 22, wherein, The display panel further includes: The dam-shaped portion protrudes above the inorganic patterned layer and in the thickness direction of the substrate. The dam-shaped portion includes a first dam-shaped portion and a second dam-shaped portion. The first dam-shaped portion surrounds the second display element, and the second dam-shaped portion extends along the corner display area.

26. The display device according to claim 25, wherein, The display panel further includes: A first auxiliary dam-shaped portion is located above the inorganic pattern layer and between the second display element and the first dam-shaped portion, and protrudes in the thickness direction of the substrate. The thickness of the first dam-shaped portion is greater than the thickness of the first auxiliary dam-shaped portion.

27. The display device according to claim 22, wherein, The display panel further includes: A dam-shaped portion protrudes above the inorganic patterned layer and in the thickness direction of the substrate; and A thin-film encapsulation layer covers the second display element and the third display element, wherein the thin-film encapsulation layer includes an inorganic encapsulation layer and an organic encapsulation layer. The thin-film encapsulation layer extends from the second display element and the third display element to the dam-shaped portion. The organic encapsulation layer is separated by the dam-shaped portion.

28. The display device according to claim 22, wherein, The display panel further includes: Connecting wiring is provided on the substrate and extends from the central display area to the plurality of extended areas. The second display element includes a pixel electrode, an intermediate layer, and a counter electrode. The connecting wiring and the counter electrode are connected to each other at the end portions of the plurality of extended regions.

29. The display device according to claim 22, wherein, The display panel further includes: Connecting wiring is provided on the substrate and extends from the central display area to the plurality of extended areas. Among them, multiple second display elements are located in one of the multiple extended regions. The plurality of second display elements each include counter electrodes spaced apart from each other. Each of the counter electrodes is connected to the connection wiring.

30. The display device according to claim 22, wherein, The display panel includes: A first side display area is connected to the front display area in a first direction and is bent with a first radius of curvature; and The second side display area is connected to the front display area in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and is bent with a second radius of curvature different from the first radius of curvature; The corner display area is located between the first side display area and the second side display area.

31. A display device, comprising: A display panel includes: a front display area, a corner display area at a bend in the front display area, and an intermediate display area between the front display area and the corner display area, wherein a first display element is in the front display area, a second display element is in the corner display area, and a third display element is in the intermediate display area; and Cover window, cover the display panel. The corner display area includes: A pixel arrangement area, wherein the second display element is in each of the pixel arrangement areas; and A connecting area is used to connect the pixel arrangement area to the intermediate display area. The adjacent pixel arrangement area and the adjacent connection area define the through area. The connecting wiring extending from the intermediate display area to the pixel arrangement area is located in the connecting area. The display panel includes: A substrate, wherein a recessed groove in the thickness direction of the substrate is defined on the substrate; and An inorganic patterned layer is located on opposite sides of the groove, wherein the inorganic patterned layer includes a pair of protruding tips projecting toward the center of the groove. The groove is located between the second display element and the through area.

32. The display device according to claim 31, wherein, The connecting area extends from the central display area in a serpentine shape, and Adjacent connection regions are arranged symmetrically in the direction that the pixel arrangement regions are spaced apart from each other.

33. The display device according to claim 31, wherein, The second display element includes a pixel electrode, an intermediate layer including an emissive layer, and a counter electrode. The intermediate layer includes: A first functional layer is located between the pixel electrode and the emitter layer; and The second functional layer is located between the counter electrode and the emitter layer. The counter electrode and at least one selected from the first functional layer and the second functional layer are separated by the pair of protruding tips and the groove.

34. The display device according to claim 31, wherein, The display panel includes: A first side display area is connected to the front display area in a first direction and is bent with a first radius of curvature; and The second side display area is connected to the front display area in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and is bent with a second radius of curvature different from the first radius of curvature; The corner display area is located between the first side display area and the second side display area.

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