Display device and method of manufacturing a display device

Abstract

A display device includes a display panel having a front portion and at least one side portion bent from at least one side of the front portion. The front portion includes first pixels. The side portion includes second pixels and an anti-cracking portion disposed adjacent to the second pixels. A number of the first pixels per unit area disposed in the front portion is greater than a number of the second pixels per unit area disposed in the at least one side portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate to a display device and a method of manufacturing a display device. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of the information society, the demand for display devices for displaying images has diversified. For example, display devices have been applied to various electronic devices, such as smartphones, digital cameras, laptops, navigation systems, and smart TVs (TVs).

[0003] Flat panel display devices, such as liquid crystal displays (LCDs), field emission displays (FEDs), and organic light-emitting diode (OLEDs), have been developed. OLED displays offer desirable characteristics such as wide viewing angles, excellent contrast ratios, and fast response times. Because OLED displays can be implemented as flexible, bendable or foldable devices, their application in electronic devices has increased. For example, displays that show images on the sides of a display device that bends from the front have been developed.

[0004] However, as the angle between the sides and the front of an OLED display increases, the inorganic film in the side becomes increasingly prone to cracking. If cracks form in the inorganic film in the side, the organic light-emitting layer of the OLED display may not be adequately encapsulated and may oxidize. As a result, some pixels in the side may fail to emit light. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention include a display device and a method of manufacturing the display device, the display device preventing the propagation of any cracks in the inorganic film in the side portion of the display device.

[0006] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a display device includes: a display panel including a front portion and at least one side portion bent from at least one side of the front portion. The front portion includes a first pixel. The side portion includes a second pixel and a crack-resistant portion configured adjacent to the second pixel. The number of first pixels per unit area disposed in the front portion is greater than the number of second pixels per unit area disposed in the at least one side portion.

[0007] In an exemplary embodiment, N second pixels (where N is a positive integer) may be disposed between each pair of anti-crack portions adjacent to the second pixel in the first direction.

[0008] In an exemplary embodiment, N second pixels (where N is a positive integer) may be disposed between each pair of anti-crack portions adjacent to the second pixel in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, the size of each of the anti-crack portions may be smaller than the combined size of N second pixels.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, the crack-prevention portion may be arranged in a zigzag pattern.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, each of the anti-crack portions can be completely surrounded by the second pixel.

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment, the crack-resistant portion may extend longitudinally in one direction.

[0013] In an exemplary embodiment, the second pixel may be arranged in the one direction.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, the first pixel and the second pixel may each include a first emission region, a second emission region, a third emission region, and a fourth emission region; and the shapes of the first emission region, the second emission region, the third emission region, and the fourth emission region of each first pixel may be different from the shapes of the first emission region, the second emission region, the third emission region, and the fourth emission region of each second pixel.

[0015] In an exemplary embodiment, P second pixels (where P is a positive integer) can be completely surrounded by the anti-crack portion.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the scan line and the data line may be disposed between the second pixel and the anti-crack portion.

[0017] In an exemplary embodiment, each second pixel may include a thin-film transistor having an active layer disposed on a buffer film of a substrate; a first insulating film disposed on the active layer; the thin-film transistor further includes a gate electrode disposed on the first insulating film; a second insulating film disposed on the gate electrode; the thin-film transistor further includes a first electrode and a second electrode disposed on the second insulating film; and a first organic film disposed on the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0018] In an exemplary embodiment, each of the anti-crack portions may include a hole that passes through the buffer film and the second insulating film to expose the substrate.

[0019] In an exemplary embodiment, the pores of the crack-resistant portion can be filled by the first organic film. That is, the first organic film is configured to fill the pores of each of the crack-resistant portions.

[0020] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a display device includes: a display panel including a front portion and at least one side portion bent from at least one side of the front portion. The front portion includes a first pixel. The at least one side portion includes a second pixel and a crack-resistant portion configured adjacent to the second pixel. The size of each first pixel is larger than the size of each second pixel.

[0021] In an exemplary embodiment, the number of first pixels per unit area in the front portion is greater than the number of second pixels per unit area in the side portion.

[0022] In an exemplary embodiment, the first pixel and the second pixel each include a first emission region, a second emission region, a third emission region, and a fourth emission region; and the shapes of the first emission region, the second emission region, the third emission region, and the fourth emission region of each first pixel are different from the shapes of the first emission region, the second emission region, the third emission region, and the fourth emission region of each second pixel.

[0023] In an exemplary embodiment, the first pixel and the second pixel each include a first emission region, a second emission region, a third emission region, and a fourth emission region; and the size of the first emission region, the second emission region, the third emission region, and the fourth emission region of each first pixel is different from the size of the first emission region, the second emission region, the third emission region, and the fourth emission region of each second pixel.

[0024] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a method of manufacturing a display device includes: forming a thin-film transistor and a plurality of inorganic insulating films on a substrate; forming holes through the plurality of inorganic insulating films to expose the substrate; forming a first organic film on the thin-film transistor and the plurality of inorganic insulating films; and forming an anode electrode, an organic light-emitting layer, and a cathode electrode for each light-emitting element on the first organic film.

[0025] In an exemplary embodiment, the pores may be filled by the first organic membrane. That is, the first organic membrane is configured to fill the pores. Attached Figure Description

[0026] The above and other features of the present invention will become more apparent from the detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0027] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 2 This is an exemplary embodiment of the concept of the present invention. Figure 1 A side view of the display device;

[0029] Figure 3 This is an exemplary embodiment of the concept of the present invention. Figure 1 An exploded view of the display device;

[0030] Figure 4 This is a layout diagram of the first display area at the front of a display panel according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 5 This is a layout diagram of the second display area on the first side of a display panel according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 6 This is an exemplary embodiment of the concept of the present invention. Figure 5 An enlarged layout diagram of area A in the second display area;

[0033] Figure 7 This is an exemplary embodiment of the concept of the present invention. Figure 5 A partial cross-sectional view of the second display area;

[0034] Figure 8 This is another exemplary embodiment of the concept according to the present invention. Figure 5 A partial cross-sectional view of the second display area;

[0035] Figure 9 This is a layout diagram of the second display area on the first side of a display panel according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 10 This is a layout diagram of the second display area on the first side of a display panel according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 11 This is a layout diagram of the second display area on the first side of a display panel according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 12 This is a layout diagram of the second display area on the first side of a display panel according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 13 This is a layout diagram of the first display area at the front of a display panel according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 14 This is a layout diagram of the second display area on the first side of a display panel according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 16 This is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 17 and Figure 18 This is a perspective view of a display device according to other exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 19 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and

[0045] Figures 20 to 23 This illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the concept according to the present invention. Figure 19 A cross-sectional view of the method. Detailed Implementation

[0046] In the following description, exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept will be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Throughout the drawings, the same reference numerals may denote the same elements.

[0047] It will be understood that when a component, such as a membrane, region, layer, or element, is referred to as being "on," "connected to," "coupled to," or "adjacent to" another component, the component may be directly on, directly connected to, directly coupled to, or directly adjacent to the other component, or there may be intermediate components. It will also be understood that when a component is referred to as being "between" two components, the component may be the only component between the two components, or there may be one or more intermediate components. It will also be understood that when a component is referred to as "covering" another component, the component may be the only component covering the other component, or one or more intermediate components may also cover the other component. Other terms used to describe relationships between elements can be interpreted in a similar manner.

[0048] It will be further understood that, unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise, the description of a feature or aspect within each exemplary embodiment may be used for other similar features or aspects in other exemplary embodiments.

[0049] As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “one,” and “the” are also intended to include the plural forms.

[0050] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “below,” “below,” “above,” and “above” are used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element (or more elements) or feature (or more features) as shown in the accompanying drawings. It will be understood that, in addition to the orientations depicted in the drawings, the spatial relative terms are also intended to cover different orientations of the device during use or operation. For example, if the device in the drawings is flipped, an element described as “below,” “below,” or “below” other elements or features will subsequently be oriented “above” other elements or features. Thus, the example terms “below” and “below” can cover both above and below orientations.

[0051] It will be understood that the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., are used herein to distinguish one element from another, and the elements are not limited by these terms. Thus, a “first” element in an exemplary embodiment may be described as a “second” element in another exemplary embodiment.

[0052] Here, when a value is described as approximately the same as or approximately equal to another value, it should be understood that these values ​​may be substantially equal to each other within measurement error, or, if measurably unequal, are sufficiently close in value to be functionally equal to each other, as those skilled in the art will understand. It will be further understood that when two components or directions are described as extending substantially parallel or perpendicular to each other, as those skilled in the art will understand, the two components or directions extend precisely parallel or perpendicular to each other, or approximately parallel or perpendicular to each other (e.g., within measurement error). Other uses of the terms “substantially” and “approximately” should be interpreted in a similar manner.

[0053] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a display device 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is an exemplary embodiment of the concept of the present invention. Figure 1 A side view of the display device 10. For ease of explanation, in... Figure 2 Not shown in the middle Figure 1 The subregion SBA.

[0054] Display device 10 can be applied to portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, smartphones, tablet PCs, mobile communication terminals, electronic notebooks, e-books, portable multimedia players (PMPs), navigation devices, or ultra-mobile PCs (UMPCs). In some exemplary embodiments, display device 10 can be used as a display unit for a television (TV), laptop computer, monitor, billboard, or Internet of Things (IoT) device. In some exemplary embodiments, display device 10 can be applied to wearable devices such as smartwatches, smartwatch phones, glasses displays, or head-mounted displays (HMDs). Additionally, display device 10 can be applied to a vehicle's dashboard, central instrument panel, or central information display (CID), an interior mirror display that can replace side mirrors, or an entertainment display located behind the front seats of a vehicle. However, exemplary embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and in other exemplary embodiments, display device 10 can be applied to other small, medium, or large electronic devices.

[0055] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 In an exemplary embodiment, the display device 10 may include a display panel 100.

[0056] like Figure 1 In the exemplary embodiments shown, the display device 10 may be generally rectangular in shape. However, the exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. In the following description, a first direction extending parallel to the X-axis (hereinafter, "X direction") may refer to the direction of the relatively shorter side of the display device 10, such as the horizontal direction of the display device 10; a second direction extending parallel to the Y-axis (hereinafter, "Y direction") may refer to the direction of the relatively longer side of the display device 10, such as the vertical direction of the display device 10; and a third direction extending parallel to the Z-axis (hereinafter, "Z direction") may be the thickness direction of the display device 10.

[0057] Display panel 100 may be a light-emitting display panel including light-emitting elements. For example, display panel 100 may be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display panel using an OLED including an organic light-emitting layer, a micro light-emitting diode (microLED) display panel using micro LEDs, a quantum dot light-emitting diode (QLED) display panel using a QLED including a quantum dot light-emitting layer, or an inorganic electroluminescent (EL) display panel using inorganic light-emitting elements including inorganic semiconductors. However, exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. For ease of explanation, in the following, display panel 100 will be described as, for example, an OLED display panel.

[0058] Display panel 100 may include a main area MA and sub-areas SBA. The main area MA may include a front portion FS, a first side portion SS1, and a second side portion SS2. Although Figure 1 The display panel 100 in the exemplary embodiment includes two sides, but in other exemplary embodiments, the display panel 100 may include at least one side, and the number of sides may vary.

[0059] In a plan view (e.g., in a plane defined in the X and Y directions), the front portion FS may have a rectangular shape, having a relatively shorter side in the X direction and a relatively longer side in the Y direction. However, exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. In another exemplary embodiment, in a plan view, the front portion FS may have another polygonal shape or a circular or elliptical shape. The corner where the relatively shorter and relatively longer sides of the front portion FS meet may be rounded with a predetermined curvature or may be a right angle. The front portion FS may be flat or may include curved surfaces.

[0060] The first side portion SS1 can extend from the first side of the front portion FS. For example, as Figure 1 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first side portion SS1 can extend from a first relatively longer side (such as the left relatively longer side of the front portion FS) extending in the Y direction. The first side portion SS1 can be bent along a first bend line BL1 provided on a first side of the front portion FS and can have a first curvature. Due to the bend along the first bend line BL1, the first side portion SS1 can not extend in the plane in the X and Y directions. Although Figures 1 to 2 An exemplary embodiment of the invention shows the first side of the front FS as the left side of the front FS, but the exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

[0061] The second side SS2 can extend from the second side of the front FS. For example, as Figure 1 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the second side portion SS2 can extend from the second relatively longer side (such as the right relatively longer side of the front FS) extending in the Y direction of the front portion FS. The second side portion SS2 can be bent along a second bend line BL2 provided on the second side of the front portion FS, and can have a second curvature. The second curvature can be substantially the same as or different from the first curvature. Due to the bend along the second bend line BL2, the second side portion SS2 may not extend in the plane in the X and Y directions. Although Figure 1 and Figure 2 An exemplary embodiment of the invention shows the second side of the front FS as the right side of the front FS, but the exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

[0062] The subregion SBA can protrude from the third side of the anterior FS. (See reference) Figure 1In an exemplary embodiment, the third side of the front FS can be a relatively shorter side of the front FS extending in the X direction and arranged in the Y direction. For example, the third side of the front FS can be the lower side of the front FS (e.g., in the Y direction). However, exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. The length of the sub-region SBA in the X direction can be less than the length of the third side of the front FS in the X direction, and the length of the sub-region SBA in the Y direction can be less than the lengths of the first and second sides of the front FS in the Y direction. However, exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. The sub-region SBA can be bent and can be located below the front FS (e.g., in the Z direction). In this exemplary embodiment, the sub-region SBA can overlap with the front FS in the Z direction.

[0063] refer to Figure 2 In an exemplary embodiment, the first angle θ1 formed by the first side portion SS1 bending from the front portion FS can be approximately 90°, and the second angle θ2 formed by the second side portion SS2 bending from the front portion FS can be approximately 90°. For example, as... Figure 2 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first side portion SS1 and the second side portion SS2 may have downwardly extending curved surfaces, and the lowest portions of the first side portion SS1 and the second side portion SS2 (e.g., in the Z direction) may form a first angle θ1 and a second angle θ2 (formed by the lowest portions of the first side portion SS1 and the second side portion SS2 and a horizontal line, respectively), with the lowest portions of the first side portion SS1 and the second side portion SS2 configured to be furthest from the front portion FS (e.g., in the X direction). However, the larger the angle θ1, the greater the likelihood of the inorganic membrane rupturing in the first side portion SS1. The larger the angle θ2, the greater the likelihood of the inorganic membrane rupturing in the second side portion SS2.

[0064] In an exemplary embodiment where the display panel 100 is an OLED display panel including an OLED, the OLED may be exposed to oxygen due to rupture of the inorganic film. For example, the OLED may be oxidized due to inadequate encapsulation, and may thus remain as black spots in the first side SS1 and the second side SS2. An oxidized OLED may fail to emit light properly. Therefore, the propagation of any cracks in the inorganic film should be prevented to avoid OLED exposure to oxygen.

[0065] Figure 3 This is an exemplary embodiment of the concept of the present invention. Figure 1 An exploded view of the display device 10.

[0066] refer to Figure 3In an exemplary embodiment, the front portion FS of the display panel 100 may include a first display area DA1 and a first non-display area NDA1, wherein the first display area DA1 displays an image and the first non-display area NDA1 does not display an image. The first display area DA1 may extend across most of the front portion FS.

[0067] The first non-display area NDA1 may include a first sub-non-display area SNDA1 and a second sub-non-display area SNDA2. For example... Figure 3 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first sub-non-display area SNDA1 may be disposed on the lower side of the first display area DA1 (e.g., in the Y direction), and the second sub-non-display area SNDA2 may be disposed on the upper side of the first display area DA1 (e.g., in the Y direction). The first sub-non-display area SNDA1 may be disposed along the lower edge of the display panel 100, and the second sub-non-display area SNDA2 may be disposed along the upper edge of the display panel 100. However, the exemplary embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0068] The first side portion SS1 may include a second display area DA2 and a second non-display area NDA2. The second display area DA2 displays an image, and the second non-display area NDA2 does not display an image. The second display area DA2 may be located to the left of the first display area DA1, and the second non-display area NDA2 may be located to the left of the second display area DA2. The second non-display area NDA2 may be located along the left edge of the display panel 100.

[0069] The second side portion SS2 may include a third display area DA3 and a third non-display area NDA3. The third display area DA3 displays an image, while the third non-display area NDA3 does not display an image. The third display area DA3 may be located to the right of the first display area DA1, and the third non-display area NDA3 may be located to the right of the third display area DA3.

[0070] The first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 can be divided by the first bend line BL1. For example, the first display area DA1 can be the area located to the right of the first bend line BL1, and the second display area DA2 can be the area located to the left of the first bend line BL1.

[0071] The first display area DA1 and the third display area DA3 can be divided by the second bend line BL2. For example, the first display area DA1 can be the area located to the left of the second bend line BL2, and the third display area DA3 can be the area located to the right of the second bend line BL2.

[0072] The sub-region SBA can be located on the lower side of the first sub-non-display region SNDA1 in the front FS. The display driver circuit 200 and the display circuit board 300 can be located in the sub-region SBA.

[0073] The display driving circuit 200 can receive control signals and power supply voltages via the display circuit board 300, and can generate signals and voltages for driving the display panel 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the display driving circuit 200 can be attached to a sub-region SBA of the display panel 100 via chip-on-plastic (COP) or ultrasonic bonding. However, exemplary embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0074] In an exemplary embodiment, the display circuit board 300 may be a flexible printed circuit board that is bendable, a rigid and inflexible rigid printed circuit board, or a hybrid printed circuit board that is a combination of a rigid printed circuit board and a flexible printed circuit board. In an exemplary embodiment, the display circuit board 300 may be attached to pads in a sub-region SBA of the display panel 100 via a low-resistance, high-reliability material such as anisotropic conductive film or self-assembling anisotropic conductive adhesive (SAP).

[0075] like Figure 3 As shown in the exemplary embodiment, since the front portion FS, the first side portion SS1, and the second side portion SS2 of the display panel 100 respectively include a first display area DA1, a second display area DA2, and a third display area DA3, the user can observe the image not only from the front portion FS of the display panel 100, but also from the first side portion SS1 and the second side portion SS2 of the display panel 100. For example, the image is displayed not only on the first display area DA1, but also on the second display area DA2 and the third display area DA3. The first display area DA1 extends in a plane in the X and Y directions, and the second display area DA2 and the third display area DA3 are respectively disposed on the angled first side portion SS1 and the second side portion SS2.

[0076] Figure 4 This is a layout diagram of the first display area DA1 of the front portion FS of the display panel 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] refer to Figure 4 In an exemplary embodiment, the first display area DA1 of the front FS may include a first pixel PX1, which is used to display an image. Each first pixel PX1 may include a first sub-pixel SP1, a second sub-pixel SP2, a third sub-pixel SP3, and a fourth sub-pixel SP4. The first sub-pixel SP1, the second sub-pixel SP2, the third sub-pixel SP3, and the fourth sub-pixel SP4 may be arranged in the X direction.

[0078] The first sub-pixel SP1 may include a first emission region RE, which emits light of a first color. The second sub-pixel SP2 may include a second emission region GE1, which emits light of a second color. The third sub-pixel SP3 may include a third emission region BE, which emits light of a third color. The fourth sub-pixel SP4 may include a fourth emission region GE2, which emits light of a fourth color.

[0079] In an exemplary embodiment, the first emission region RE, the second emission region GE1, the third emission region BE, and the fourth emission region GE2 can emit light of different colors. Alternatively, at least two of the first emission region RE, the second emission region GE1, the third emission region BE, and the fourth emission region GE2 can emit light of the same color. For example, the second emission region GE1 and the fourth emission region GE2 can emit light of the same color.

[0080] In an exemplary embodiment, the first transmitting region RE, the second transmitting region GE1, the third transmitting region BE, and the fourth transmitting region GE2 may have quadrilateral shapes in a plan view. However, exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. Alternatively, in a plan view, the first transmitting region RE, the second transmitting region GE1, the third transmitting region BE, and the fourth transmitting region GE2 may have non-quadrilateral polygonal shapes, circular shapes, or elliptical shapes. Figure 4 The diagram shows that the third emission region BE is the largest in size, and the second emission region GE1 and the fourth emission region GE2 are the smallest in size and have the same dimensions. However, exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

[0081] The second transmission region GE1 and the fourth transmission region GE2 can be arranged alternately in the X direction. The second transmission region GE1 can be arranged along the Y direction. The fourth transmission region GE2 can also be arranged along the Y direction. Each fourth transmission region GE2 can have a relatively longer side in the fourth direction DR4 and a relatively shorter side in the fifth direction DR5, and each second transmission region GE1 can have a relatively longer side in the fifth direction DR5 and a relatively shorter side in the fourth direction DR4. The fourth direction DR4 can be a diagonal direction between the X and Y directions, and the fifth direction DR5 can be a direction intersecting the fourth direction DR4. For example, the fifth direction DR5 can be orthogonal to the fourth direction DR4.

[0082] The first transmission area (RE) and the third transmission area (BE) can be arranged alternately in the X direction. The first transmission area (RE) can be arranged along the Y direction. The third transmission area (BE) can be arranged along the Y direction. Figure 4As shown in the exemplary embodiment, in a plan view (e.g., in a plane defined in the X and Y directions), the first emission region RE and the third emission region BE may have a rhomboid shape. In this exemplary embodiment, the first emission region RE and the third emission region BE may each have a first side extending in the fourth direction DR4 and a second side extending in the fifth direction DR5.

[0083] Figure 5 This is a layout diagram of the second display area DA2 of the first side portion SS1 of the display panel 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] refer to Figure 5 In an exemplary embodiment, the second display area DA2 of the first side SS1 may include a second pixel PX2 and a crack-resistant portion CPA, wherein the second pixel PX2 is used to display an image.

[0085] Each second pixel PX2 may include a first sub-pixel SP1, a second sub-pixel SP2, a third sub-pixel SP3, and a fourth sub-pixel SP4. Figure 5 The first sub-pixel SP1, the second sub-pixel SP2, the third sub-pixel SP3, and the fourth sub-pixel SP4 are... Figure 4 The corresponding parts of the first sub-pixel SP1, the second sub-pixel SP2, the third sub-pixel SP3 and the fourth sub-pixel SP4 are basically the same, and therefore, for ease of explanation, their detailed description will be omitted.

[0086] The larger the angle θ1 formed by the bending of the first side portion SS1 from the front portion FS, the greater the likelihood of the inorganic film in the first side portion SS1 rupturing. Therefore, the second display area DA2 may include a crack-prevention portion CPA, which prevents crack propagation. The crack-prevention portion CPA may not include at least some of the inorganic film. As a result, due to the crack-prevention portion CPA, any cracks in the inorganic film will not be further propagated.

[0087] The second pixel PX2 can be configured to be adjacent to the anti-crack portion CPA. For example, the second pixel PX2 can be configured to be adjacent to the anti-crack portion CPA (e.g., in the X and / or Y directions) and can not overlap with the anti-crack portion CPA. In an exemplary embodiment, the number of second pixels PX2 per unit area of ​​the second display area DA2 can be less than the number of first pixels PX1 per unit area of ​​the first display area DA1 of the front FS. For example, due to the space occupied by the anti-crack portion CPA, the number of second pixels PX2 per unit area of ​​the second display area DA2 of the first side SS1 is reduced. The unit area can be an area of ​​any length that can be used to compare pixel densities, etc., between different parts of the display device.

[0088] The crack-resistant portion CPA can be configured to be adjacent to the second pixel PX2 in each of the X and Y directions. For example, the crack-resistant portion CPA can be arranged in a zigzag pattern. The crack-resistant portion CPA can be surrounded by the second pixel PX2. For example, each crack-resistant portion CPA can be completely surrounded by the second pixel PX2 in both the X and Y directions.

[0089] N second pixels PX2 can be positioned between each pair of anti-crack portions CPA adjacent to the second pixel PX2 in the X direction. N second pixels PX2 can also be positioned between each pair of anti-crack portions CPA adjacent to the second pixel PX2 in the Y direction. Figure 5 In an exemplary embodiment, two second pixels PX2 are disposed between each pair of anti-crack portions CPAs adjacent to the second pixel PX2 in the X direction, and also between each pair of anti-crack portions CPAs adjacent to the second pixel PX2 in the Y direction. However, the exemplary embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and in other exemplary embodiments, the number N of second pixels PX2 disposed between each pair of anti-crack portions CPAs adjacent to the second pixel PX2 in both the X and Y directions can vary. Furthermore, in some exemplary embodiments, the number of second pixels PX2 disposed between each pair of anti-crack portions CPAs adjacent to the second pixel PX2 in the X direction can be different from the number of second pixels PX2 disposed between each pair of anti-crack portions CPAs adjacent to the second pixel PX2 in the Y direction.

[0090] The second pixel PX2 and the anti-crack portion CPA can be arranged alternately in the X direction. For example, the second pixel PX2 and the anti-crack portion CPA can be arranged in the X direction in the order of two second pixels PX2, anti-crack portion CPA, or two second pixels PX2 and anti-crack portion CPA.

[0091] The second pixel PX2 and the crack-resistant portion CPA can be arranged alternately in the Y direction. For example, the second pixel PX2 and the crack-resistant portion CPA can be arranged in the Y direction in the order of two second pixels PX2, crack-resistant portion CPA, or two second pixels PX2 and crack-resistant portion CPA.

[0092] like Figure 5 As shown in the exemplary embodiment, space for the crack-resistant portion CPA can be ensured by reducing the number of second pixels PX2 per unit area of ​​the second display area DA2 of the first side SS1 to less than the number of first pixels PX1 per unit area of ​​the first display area DA1. Therefore, any cracks in the inorganic film in the first side SS1 will be unable to propagate through the crack-resistant portion CPA, and thus further propagation of cracks can be prevented.

[0093] The third display area DA3 of the second side SS2 of the display panel 100 can be substantially the same as the second display area DA2 of the first side SS1, and therefore, for ease of explanation, its detailed description will be omitted.

[0094] Figure 6 This is an exemplary embodiment of the concept of the present invention. Figure 5 The enlarged layout diagram of area A in the second display area DA2. Figure 6 It shows Figure 3 An enlarged layout of the anti-crack portion CPA and the adjacent second pixel PX2 in the first side SS1 of the display panel 100.

[0095] For ease of explanation, Figure 6 The diagram shows a first scan line SL1 and a second scan line SL2, as well as a first data line DL1, a second data line DL2, a third data line DL3, and a fourth data line DL4. The first scan line SL1 and the second scan line SL2 overlap with a second pixel PX2 located on the left or right side of the crack-resistant portion CPA (e.g., in the X direction). The first data line DL1, the second data line DL2, the third data line DL3, and the fourth data line DL4 overlap with the second pixel PX2 located on the upper or lower side of the crack-resistant portion CPA (e.g., in the Y direction).

[0096] refer to Figure 6 In an exemplary embodiment, the first scan line SL1 and the second scan line SL2, as well as the first data line DL1, the second data line DL2, the third data line DL3, and the fourth data line DL4, can extend (e.g., in the X and / or Y directions) between the anti-crack portion CPA and the second pixel PX2. The anti-crack portion CPA can be a wiring area LA ( Figure 7 Surrounding. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one of scan lines such as the first scan line SL1 and the second scan line SL2 and data lines such as the first data line DL1 to the fourth data line DL4 (e.g., in the X direction and / or Y direction) extends between the second pixel PX2 and the anti-crack portion CPA.

[0097] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 In an exemplary embodiment where the crack-resistant portion CPA has a quadrilateral shape in the plan view, the wiring area LA (see Figure 7 The plan view can also have a quadrilateral frame shape. However, exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. For example, in other exemplary embodiments, the crack-resistant portion CPA can have a non-quadrilateral polygonal shape, a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or an amorphous shape in the plan view, and the wiring area LA (see...) Figure 7In a plan view, it can also have the shape of a non-quadrilateral polygonal frame, a circular frame, an elliptical frame, or an amorphous frame.

[0098] The first scan line SL1 may include multiple sub-scan lines, such as the first scan initialization line GIL1, the first scan write line GWL1, and the first emit line EL1. Figure 6 In the exemplary embodiment, the first scan initialization line GIL1, the first scan write line GWL1, and the first emission line EL1 may overlap with the upper second pixel PX2 of the second pixel PX2 disposed on the left side of the crack-prevention portion CPA. The first scan initialization line GIL1, the first scan write line GWL1, and the first emission line EL1 may also overlap with the upper second pixel PX2 of the second pixel PX2 disposed on the right side of the crack-prevention portion CPA.

[0099] The first scan initialization line GIL1, the first scan write line GWL1, and the first emitter line EL1 can extend across the second pixel PX2 in the X direction. At least one of the first scan initialization line GIL1, the first scan write line GWL1, and the first emitter line EL1 can be bent multiple times in the wiring region LA so that they do not extend in the crack-resistant portion CPA. For example, in Figure 6 In an exemplary embodiment, the first scan initialization line GIL1 may not be bent within the wiring region LA. However, the first scan write line GWL1 and the first emit line EL1 may be bent in the Y direction on the left side of the wiring region LA, bent in the X direction at the corner where the left and upper sides of the wiring region LA intersect, bent in the Y direction at the corner where the right and upper sides of the wiring region LA intersect, and bent in the X direction on the right side of the wiring region LA. Although in Figure 6 In the exemplary embodiment, the first scan initialization line GIL1 does not bend in the wiring region LA, but the exemplary embodiment of the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0100] Due to the presence of the wiring region LA, the size of each crack-resistant portion CPA can be smaller than the combined size of N second pixels PX2. For example, the size of the crack-resistant portion CPA can be smaller than the combined size of N second pixels PX2 in the X and / or Y directions. The size of the crack-resistant portion CPA decreases as the size of the wiring region LA increases. As the size of the crack-resistant portion CPA decreases, the likelihood of cracks in the inorganic film propagating through the crack-resistant portion CPA increases. Therefore, to minimize the size of the wiring region LA, the distances between the first scan initialization line GIL1 and the first scan write line GWL1, and between the first scan write line GWL1 and the first emission line EL1 in the wiring region LA can be smaller than the distances between the first scan initialization line GIL1 and the first scan write line GWL1, and between the first scan write line GWL1 and the first emission line EL1 in the portions of the first scan initialization line GIL1, the first scan write line GWL1, and the first emission line EL1 that overlap with the second pixels PX2.

[0101] The second scan line SL2 may include multiple sub-scan lines, such as the second scan initialization line GIL2, the second scan write line GWL2, and the second emission line EL2. The second scan initialization line GIL2, the second scan write line GWL2, and the second emission line EL2 may overlap with the lower second pixel PX2 of the second pixel PX2 located on the left side of the crack-resistant portion CPA. The second scan initialization line GIL2, the second scan write line GWL2, and the second emission line EL2 may also overlap with the lower second pixel PX2 of the second pixel PX2 located on the right side of the crack-resistant portion CPA.

[0102] The second scan initialization line GIL2, the second scan write line GWL2, and the second emitter line EL2 can extend across the second pixel PX2 in the X direction. At least one of the second scan initialization line GIL2, the second scan write line GWL2, and the second emitter line EL2 can be bent multiple times in the wiring region LA so that they do not extend in the crack-resistant portion CPA. For example, in Figure 6 In an exemplary embodiment, the second transmit line EL2 may not be bent within the wiring region LA; however, the second scan initialization line GIL2 and the second scan write line GWL2 may be bent in the Y direction on the left side of the wiring region LA, bent in the X direction at the corner where the left and lower sides of the wiring region LA intersect, bent in the Y direction at the corner where the right and lower sides of the wiring region LA intersect, and bent in the X direction on the right side of the wiring region LA. Although in Figure 6 In an exemplary embodiment, the second transmitting line EL2 does not bend in the wiring region LA, but the exemplary embodiment of the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0103] To minimize the size of the wiring region LA, the distance between the second scan initialization line GIL2 and the second scan write line GWL2, and between the second scan write line GWL2 and the second emitter line EL2 in the wiring region LA can be smaller than the distance between the second scan initialization line GIL2 and the second scan write line GWL2, and between the second scan write line GWL2 and the second emitter line EL2 in the portions of the second scan initialization line GIL2, the second scan write line GWL2 and the second emitter line EL2 that overlap with the second pixel PX2.

[0104] The first data line DL1, the second data line DL2, the third data line DL3, and the fourth data line DL4 may overlap with the second pixel PX2, which is disposed on the upper or lower side of the anti-crack portion CPA (e.g., in the Y direction). The first data line DL1, the second data line DL2, the third data line DL3, and the fourth data line DL4 may extend across the second pixel PX2 in the Y direction.

[0105] At least one of the data cables DL1, DL2, DL3, and DL4 can be bent multiple times within the wiring area LA, so that they do not extend within the crack-resistant section CPA. For example, in Figure 6 In an exemplary embodiment, the first data line DL1 may not be bent within the wiring region LA. However, the second data line DL2 may be bent in the X direction above the wiring region LA, bent in the Y direction at the corner where the left and upper sides of the wiring region LA intersect, bent in the X direction at the corner where the left and lower sides of the wiring region LA intersect, and bent in the Y direction on the lower side of the wiring region LA. For example, the third data line DL3 and the fourth data line DL4 may be bent in the X direction above the wiring region LA, bent in the Y direction at the corner where the right and upper sides of the wiring region LA intersect, bent in the X direction at the corner where the right and lower sides of the wiring region LA intersect, and bent in the Y direction on the lower side of the wiring region LA. Although in Figure 6 In an exemplary embodiment, the first data line DL1 is not bent in the wiring area LA, but the exemplary embodiment of the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0106] In order to minimize the size of the wiring area LA, the distance between the first data line DL1 and the second data line DL2 and the distance between the third data line DL3 and the fourth data line DL4 in the wiring area LA can be smaller than the distance between the first data line DL1 and the second data line DL2 and the distance between the third data line DL3 and the fourth data line DL4 in the portion of the first data line DL1 to the fourth data line DL4 that overlaps with the second pixel PX2.

[0107] Figure 7This is an exemplary embodiment of the concept of the present invention. Figure 5 A partial cross-sectional view of the second display area DA2. Figure 7 It shows along Figure 6 An exemplary cross-sectional view taken from line I-I'.

[0108] refer to Figure 7 In an exemplary embodiment, a first buffer film BF1 may be disposed on a first substrate SUB1, a second substrate SUB2 may be disposed on the first buffer film BF1, and a second buffer film BF2 may be disposed on the second substrate SUB2.

[0109] In an exemplary embodiment, the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 may be formed of an insulating material such as a polymer resin. For example, the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 may include polyimide. The first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 may be flexible substrates that are bendable, foldable, or rollable. However, exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

[0110] The first buffer film BF1 and the second buffer film BF2 can be films used to protect the light-emitting layer 172 of the thin-film transistor (TFT) layer (TFT ST) and the light-emitting element layer (EML) from moisture that may penetrate the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2, which are susceptible to moisture. Each of the first buffer film BF1 and the second buffer film BF2 can be composed of a plurality of inorganic films stacked alternately. For example, each of the first buffer film BF1 and the second buffer film BF2 can be formed as a multilayer film in which at least one inorganic film selected from silicon nitride layer, silicon oxynitride layer, silicon oxide layer, titanium oxide layer and aluminum oxide layer is stacked alternately.

[0111] A light-blocking layer BML can be disposed on the second substrate SUB2. The light-blocking layer BML can be configured to overlap with the active layer ACT of the TFTST in the Z direction to prevent leakage current when light is incident on the active layer ACT of the TFTST. In an exemplary embodiment, the light-blocking layer BML can be formed as a single-layer or multi-layer film comprising molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), copper (Cu), and alloys thereof. However, exemplary embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and in some exemplary embodiments, the light-blocking layer BML may not be provided.

[0112] The active layer ACT of the TFT ST can be disposed on the second buffer film BF2. For example, as Figure 7In the exemplary embodiment, the lower surface of the active layer ACT of the TFT ST can directly contact the upper surface of the second buffer film BF2. In the exemplary embodiment, the active layer ACT of the TFT ST may include at least one material selected from polycrystalline silicon, monocrystalline silicon, low-temperature polycrystalline silicon, amorphous silicon, and oxide semiconductors. The active layer ACT of the TFT ST not covered by the gate insulating film 130 (e.g., exposed by the gate insulating film 130) may be doped with impurities or ions and may therefore be conductive. Therefore, a source electrode S and a drain electrode D of a conductive TFT ST can be formed.

[0113] The gate insulating film 130 may be disposed on a portion (e.g., a local portion) of the active layer ACT of the TFT ST. In an exemplary embodiment, the gate insulating film 130 may be formed as an inorganic film and may include at least one layer selected from silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, silicon oxide, titanium oxide, and aluminum oxide.

[0114] The gate electrode G and scan lines SL1 and SL2 of the TFT ST can be disposed on the gate insulating film 130. For example, as Figure 7 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the lower surface of the gate electrode G of the TFT ST can directly contact the upper surface of the gate insulating film 130. The gate electrode G of the TFT ST can overlap with the active layer ACT in the Z direction. Figure 7 Only the second scan initialization line GIL2 in the sub-scan lines of the second scan line SL2 is shown. In an exemplary embodiment, the gate electrode G of the TFT ST, as well as the first scan line SL1 and the second scan line SL2, can be formed as a single layer or multiple layers, the single layer or multiple layers comprising at least one material selected from Mo, Al, Cr, Au, Ti, Ni, Nd, Cu and alloys thereof.

[0115] The first interlayer insulating film 141 may be disposed on the gate electrode G of the TFT ST and on the first scan line SL1 and the second scan line SL2. In an exemplary embodiment, the first interlayer insulating film 141 may be formed as an inorganic film, such as at least one layer selected from silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, silicon oxide, titanium oxide, and aluminum oxide. The first interlayer insulating film 141 may include multiple inorganic films.

[0116] The capacitor electrode CAE can be disposed on the first interlayer insulating film 141. The capacitor electrode CAE can overlap with the gate electrode G of the TFT ST in the Z direction. Since the first interlayer insulating film 141 has a predetermined dielectric constant, a capacitor can be formed between the capacitor electrode CAE, the gate electrode G, and the first interlayer insulating film 141. In an exemplary embodiment, the capacitor electrode CAE can be formed as a single layer or multiple layers comprising at least one material selected from Mo, Al, Cr, Au, Ti, Ni, Nd, Cu, and alloys thereof.

[0117] The second interlayer insulating film 142 can be disposed on the capacitor electrode CAE. The second interlayer insulating film 142 can be formed as an inorganic film, such as at least one layer selected from silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, silicon oxide, titanium oxide, and aluminum oxide. The second interlayer insulating film 142 may include multiple inorganic films.

[0118] The first anode connection electrode ANDE1, as well as the first data line DL1, the second data line DL2, the third data line DL3, and the fourth data line DL4, can be disposed on the second interlayer insulating film 142. The first anode connection electrode ANDE1 can be connected to the drain electrode D of the TFT ST through the first anode contact hole ANCT1, which passes through the first interlayer insulating film 141 and the second interlayer insulating film 142 to expose the drain electrode D of the TFT ST. The first anode connection electrode ANDE1, as well as the first data line DL1, the second data line DL2, the third data line DL3, and the fourth data line DL4, can be formed as a single layer or multiple layers comprising at least one material selected from Mo, Al, Cr, Au, Ti, Ni, Nd, Cu, and alloys thereof.

[0119] A first organic film 160 may be disposed on the first anode connection electrode ANDE1 and the first data line DL1, the second data line DL2, the third data line DL3, and the fourth data line DL4. The first organic film 160 is used for planarization. In an exemplary embodiment, the first organic film 160 may be formed as an organic film including acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin, or polyimide resin.

[0120] A second anode connection electrode ANDE2 can be disposed on the first organic film 160. The second anode connection electrode ANDE2 can be connected to the first anode connection electrode ANDE1 through a second anode contact hole ANCT2, which penetrates the first organic film 160 to expose the first anode connection electrode ANDE1. In an exemplary embodiment, the second anode connection electrode ANDE2 can be formed as a single layer or multiple layers comprising at least one material selected from Mo, Al, Cr, Au, Ti, Ni, Nd, Cu, and alloys thereof.

[0121] The second organic membrane 180 can be disposed on the second anode connection electrode ANDE2. The second organic membrane 180 can be formed as an organic membrane including acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin or polyimide resin.

[0122] Figure 7 The illustration shows a TFT ST formed as a top-gate TFT with the gate electrode G disposed above the active layer ACT. However, exemplary embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. For example, in other exemplary embodiments, the TFT ST may be formed as a bottom-gate TFT with the gate electrode G disposed below the active layer ACT, or as a dual-gate TFT with the gate electrode G disposed both above and below the active layer ACT.

[0123] The light-emitting element 170 and the dam 190 can be disposed on the second organic film 180. Each light-emitting element 170 may include a first light-emitting electrode 171, a light-emitting layer 172, and a second light-emitting electrode 173.

[0124] The first light-emitting electrode 171 can be disposed on the second organic film 180. The first light-emitting electrode 171 can be connected to the second anode connection electrode ANDE2 through the third anode contact hole ANCT3, which passes through the second organic film 180 to expose the second anode connection electrode ANDE2.

[0125] In the top-emitting structure that emits light in the direction from the light-emitting layer 172 to the second light-emitting electrode 173, the first light-emitting electrode 171 may be formed of a highly reflective metallic material such as a stack of Al and Ti (e.g., Ti / Al / Ti), a stack of Al and indium tin oxide (ITO) (e.g., ITO / Al / ITO), a silver (Ag)-palladium (Pd)-copper (Cu) (APC) alloy, or a stack of APC alloy and ITO (e.g., ITO / APC / ITO).

[0126] A dam 190 may be disposed on the second organic film 180 to separate the first light-emitting electrode 171, and thereby define a first emission region RE. Figure 6 ), second launch area GE1, third launch area BE ( Figure 6 ) and the fourth launch area GE2. For example Figure 7 In an exemplary embodiment, the dam 190 may be formed to cover the side edges of each first light-emitting electrode 171. In an exemplary embodiment, the dam 190 may be formed as an organic film comprising at least one material selected from acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin, and polyimide resin.

[0127] First launch area RE ( Figure 6), second launch area GE1, third launch area BE ( Figure 6 The first light-emitting electrode 171, the light-emitting layer 172, and the second light-emitting electrode 173 are stacked sequentially such that holes from the first light-emitting electrode 171 and electrons from the second light-emitting electrode 173 combine in the light-emitting layer 172 to emit light.

[0128] For convenience, Figure 7 Only the first launch area RE is shown (see Figure 6 ), second launch area GE1, third launch area BE (see Figure 6 (and the second launch area GE1 and the fourth launch area GE2 of the fourth launch area GE2.) Figure 6 The first launch zone (RE) and the third launch zone (BE) can be connected with Figure 7 The second transmission area GE1 and the fourth transmission area GE2 are essentially the same, and therefore, for ease of explanation, their detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0129] A light-emitting layer 172 is disposed on the first light-emitting electrode 171. In an exemplary embodiment, the light-emitting layer 172 may include an organic material and may therefore emit light of a specific color. For example, the light-emitting layer 172 may include a hole transport layer, an organic material layer, and an electron transport layer.

[0130] The second light-emitting electrode 173 is disposed on the light-emitting layer 172 and the embankment 190. The second light-emitting electrode 173 may be arranged to extend (e.g., in the Y direction) to cover each light-emitting layer 172. For example, the second light-emitting electrode 173 may be located throughout the entire first emission region RE (see Figure 6 ), second launch area GE1, third launch area BE (see Figure 6 The common layer is formed together with the fourth emission region GE2. The cover layer can be disposed on the second light-emitting electrode 173.

[0131] In the top-emitting structure, the second light-emitting electrode 173 can be formed of a transparent metallic material such as at least one compound selected from ITO and indium zinc oxide (IZO) or a translucent metallic material such as magnesium (Mg), Ag, or alloys thereof. In an exemplary embodiment in which the second light-emitting electrode 173 is formed of a translucent metallic material, the emission efficiency of the second light-emitting electrode 173 can be improved due to the microcavity.

[0132] An encapsulation layer TFE can be disposed on the second light-emitting electrode 173. The encapsulation layer TFE may include at least one inorganic film for preventing oxygen or moisture from penetrating into the light-emitting element layer EML. The encapsulation layer TFE may also include at least one organic film for protecting the light-emitting element layer EML from foreign matter such as dust. For example, such as... Figure 7 In an exemplary embodiment, the encapsulation layer TFE may include a first inorganic membrane TFE1, an organic membrane TFE2, and a second inorganic membrane TFE3.

[0133] A first inorganic film TFE1 can be disposed on the second light-emitting electrode 173, an organic film TFE2 can be disposed on the first inorganic film TFE1, and a second inorganic film TFE3 can be disposed on the organic film TFE2. Each of the first inorganic film TFE1 and the second inorganic film TFE3 can be formed as a multilayer film, wherein at least one inorganic film selected from silicon nitride layer, silicon oxynitride layer, silicon oxide layer, titanium oxide layer, and aluminum oxide layer is alternately stacked. The organic film TFE2 may include a monomer.

[0134] refer to Figure 7 In an exemplary embodiment, the second buffer film BF2, the gate insulating film 130, the first interlayer insulating film 141, and the second interlayer insulating film 142 may not be included in the crack-resistant portion CPA. For example, a hole CPH may be formed in the crack-resistant portion CPA, and the hole CPH penetrates the second buffer film BF2, the gate insulating film 130, the first interlayer insulating film 141, and the second interlayer insulating film 142 to expose the second substrate SUB2. In an exemplary embodiment, the hole CPH may be filled by a first organic film 160. For example, the lower surface of the first organic film 160 may directly contact the upper surface of the second substrate SUB2.

[0135] In an exemplary embodiment, the second interlayer insulating film 142 may be disposed only on the first interlayer insulating film 141. In this exemplary embodiment, the second interlayer insulating film 142 may not cover the lateral side surface exposed by the through-hole CPH of each of the second buffer film BF2, the gate insulating film 130, and the first interlayer insulating film 141.

[0136] Alternatively, in an exemplary embodiment, the second interlayer insulating film 142 may be disposed on the lateral side surface exposed by the via CPH of each of the second buffer film BF2, the gate insulating film 130, and the first interlayer insulating film 141 to improve encapsulation performance. In an exemplary embodiment, the lateral side surface of the gate insulating film 130 may also be disposed adjacent to the via CPH, and the second interlayer insulating film 142 may be disposed on the lateral side surface of the gate insulating film 130. The second interlayer insulating film 142 may be disposed on a portion of the via CPH exposed by the second substrate SUB2.

[0137] refer to Figure 7In an exemplary embodiment, even if a crack is generated in at least one of the second buffer film BF2, the gate insulating film 130, the first interlayer insulating film 141, and the second interlayer insulating film 142, the crack will not be further propagated through the crack-resistant portion CPA because the second buffer film BF2, the gate insulating film 130, the first interlayer insulating film 141, and the second interlayer insulating film 142 are not included in the crack-resistant portion CPA (e.g., removed from the crack-resistant portion CPA).

[0138] Figure 8 This is another exemplary embodiment of the concept according to the present invention. Figure 5 A partial cross-sectional view of the second display area. Figure 8 It shows along Figure 6 Another exemplary cross-sectional view taken from line I-I'.

[0139] Figure 8 Exemplary embodiments and Figure 7 The exemplary embodiment differs in that the hole CPH' in the crack-resistant portion CPA extends through layers beyond the first organic film 160, the second organic film 180, the dam 190, and the second light-emitting electrode 173 of the light-emitting element 170, in addition to the second buffer film BF2, the gate insulating film 130, the first interlayer insulating film 141, and the second interlayer insulating film 142. In the following text, the focus will be primarily on... Figure 7 Different implementations, for Figure 8 The exemplary embodiments are described herein, and for ease of explanation, repeated descriptions of substantially the same elements will be omitted.

[0140] Reference Figure 8 A hole CPH' can be formed in the crack-resistant portion CPA, and the hole CPH' exposes the second substrate SUB2 by passing through the layers of the second buffer film BF2, the gate insulating film 130, the first interlayer insulating film 141, the second interlayer insulating film 142, the first organic film 160, the second organic film 180, the dam 190, and the second light-emitting electrode 173 of the light-emitting element 170. The hole CPH' can be filled by the organic film TFE2 of the encapsulation layer TFE. The organic film TFE2 of the encapsulation layer TFE can contact the second substrate SUB2. For example, as Figure 8 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the lower surface of the organic membrane TFE2 can directly contact the upper surface of the second substrate SUB2.

[0141] The first inorganic film TFE1 of the encapsulation layer TFE can be disposed on the lateral side surface exposed by the through-hole CPH' of each of the layers of the second buffer film BF2, the gate insulating film 130, the first interlayer insulating film 141, the second interlayer insulating film 142, the first organic film 160, the second organic film 180, the dam 190, and the second light-emitting electrode 173 of the light-emitting element 170, to enhance the encapsulation effect of the encapsulation layer TFE. Furthermore, the first inorganic film TFE1 of the encapsulation layer can directly contact the local portion of the second substrate SUB2 exposed by the through-hole CPH'.

[0142] Alternatively, the first inorganic film TFE1 of the encapsulation layer TFE may not cover the lateral side surface exposed by the through-hole CPH' of each of the layers of the second buffer film BF2, the gate insulating film 130, the first interlayer insulating film 141, the second interlayer insulating film 142, the first organic film 160, the second organic film 180, the dam 190, and the second light-emitting electrode 173 of the light-emitting element 170. In this exemplary embodiment, the first inorganic film TFE1 of the encapsulation layer TFE may be disposed only on the dam 190.

[0143] like Figure 8 As shown in the exemplary embodiment, even if a crack is generated in at least one of the second buffer film BF2, the gate insulating film 130, the first interlayer insulating film 141, and the second interlayer insulating film 142, the crack will not be further propagated through the crack-resistant portion CPA because the second buffer film BF2, the gate insulating film 130, the first interlayer insulating film 141, and the second interlayer insulating film 142 are not included in the crack-resistant portion CPA (e.g., removed from the crack-resistant portion CPA).

[0144] In an exemplary embodiment in which the first organic film 160, the second organic film 180, and the dam 190 are formed of polyimide, which has a high absorption rate for short-wavelength light (e.g., blue light) and is therefore able to block short-wavelength light, the crack-resistant portion CPA of the first organic film 160, the second organic film 180, and the dam 190 is removed and can be used as a transmission area through which light can be transmitted.

[0145] In an exemplary embodiment in which the sensor device is configured to overlap with the anti-crack portion CPA in the first side portion SS1 (e.g., in the Z direction), the sensor device can detect light incident from the front of the display device 10 through the anti-crack portion CPA. For example, the sensor device may be an image sensor for capturing images, a proximity sensor for detecting objects near the front surface of the display device 10, or an illuminance sensor for detecting illuminance at the front surface of the display device 10.

[0146] Figure 9This is a layout diagram of the second display area DA2 of the first side portion SS1 of a display panel 100 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0147] Figure 9 Exemplary embodiments and Figure 5 The difference in the exemplary embodiment is that four second pixels PX2 are disposed between each pair of anti-crack portions CPA adjacent to the second pixel PX2 in the X direction and between each pair of anti-crack portions CPA adjacent to the second pixel PX2 in the Y direction. Therefore, for ease of explanation, the inclusion of... Figure 9 A detailed description of substantially the same elements in the exemplary embodiments.

[0148] Figure 3 The third display area DA3 of the second side SS2 of the display panel 100 can be connected with Figure 9 The second display area DA2 of the first side SS1 of the exemplary embodiment is substantially the same, and therefore, for ease of explanation, its detailed description will be omitted.

[0149] Figure 10 This is a layout diagram of the second display area DA2 of the first side portion SS1 of a display panel 100 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0150] Figure 10 Exemplary embodiments and Figure 5 The difference in the exemplary embodiments is that both the crack-prevention portion CPA and the second pixel PX2 extend longitudinally in the Y direction and are arranged alternately in the X direction. Therefore, for ease of explanation, repeated descriptions of substantially the same elements included in the previous exemplary embodiments will be omitted. However, the exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto, and the crack-prevention portion CPA and the second pixel PX2 may extend longitudinally in a direction different from the Y direction, and the crack-prevention portion CPA and the second pixel PX2 may be arranged alternately in a direction different from said direction. For example, in another exemplary embodiment, both the crack-prevention portion CPA and the second pixel PX2 may extend longitudinally in the X direction and may be arranged alternately in the Y direction.

[0151] Figure 3 The third display area DA3 on the second side SS2 of the display panel 100 can be connected with Figure 10 The second display area DA2 of the first side SS1 is essentially the same, and therefore, for ease of explanation, its detailed description will be omitted.

[0152] Figure 11 This is a layout diagram of the second display area DA2 of the first side portion SS1 of a display panel 100 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0153] Figure 11 Exemplary embodiments and Figure 5 The exemplary embodiment differs in that the second pixel PX2' of the second display area DA2 has the same... Figure 4 The first pixel PX1 of the first display area DA1 has a different shape.

[0154] refer to Figure 11 In an exemplary embodiment, each second pixel PX2' may include a first sub-pixel SP1', a second sub-pixel SP2', a third sub-pixel SP3', and a fourth sub-pixel SP4'. The second sub-pixel SP2' and the fourth sub-pixel SP4' may be disposed between the first sub-pixel SP1' and the third sub-pixel SP3' in the X direction. The second sub-pixel SP2' and the fourth sub-pixel SP4' may be arranged in the Y direction. The second sub-pixel SP2' may be disposed above the fourth sub-pixel SP4'. The length of the first sub-pixel SP1' and the third sub-pixel SP3' in the Y direction may be greater than the length of the second sub-pixel SP2' and the fourth sub-pixel SP4' in the Y direction. For example, as... Figure 11 In the exemplary embodiment, the lengths of the second sub-pixel SP2' and the fourth sub-pixel SP4' in the Y direction can each be approximately half the lengths of the first sub-pixel SP1' and the third sub-pixel SP3' in the Y direction. The combined length of the second sub-pixel SP2' and the fourth sub-pixel SP4' in the Y direction can be approximately the same as the lengths of the first sub-pixel SP1' and the third sub-pixel SP3' in the Y direction.

[0155] In the planar view, the first emission region RE' and the third emission region BE' may each have a rectangular shape, with a relatively shorter side in the X direction and a relatively longer side in the Y direction. However, exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. Alternatively, in the planar view, the first emission region RE' and the third emission region BE' may have non-rectangular quadrilateral shapes, non-quadrilateral polygonal shapes, circular shapes, or elliptical shapes. The size of the third emission region BE' may be larger than the size of the first emission region RE'. The length of the first emission region RE' in the Y direction may be smaller than the length of the third emission region BE' in the Y direction.

[0156] In a planar view (e.g., in a plane defined in the X and Y directions), the second emission region GE1' and the fourth emission region GE2' may each have a rectangular shape, with a relatively shorter side in the X direction and a relatively longer side in the Y direction. However, exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. Alternatively, in a planar view, the second emission region GE1' and the fourth emission region GE2' may have a non-rectangular quadrilateral shape, a non-quadrilateral polygonal shape, a circular shape, or an elliptical shape. Figure 11 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the second transmission region GE1' and the fourth transmission region GE2' may have the same size.

[0157] The anti-crack portion CPA can be set to surround every P second pixels PX2' (where P is a positive integer). Figure 11 The anti-crack portion CPA is shown surrounding every two adjacent second pixels PX2' in the Y direction. (See diagram.) Figure 11 In the exemplary embodiments shown, the anti-crack portion CPA can (e.g., in the X and Y directions) completely surround two adjacent second pixels PX2'. However, the exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. Alternatively, the anti-crack portion CPA can be configured to surround every two adjacent second pixels PX2' that are adjacent to each other in the X direction. Alternatively, the anti-crack portion CPA can be configured to surround every three adjacent second pixels PX2' that are adjacent to each other in the X or Y direction. Alternatively, the anti-crack portion CPA can be configured to surround every four or more adjacent second pixels PX2' that are adjacent to each other in the X or Y direction.

[0158] like Figure 11 In the exemplary embodiment, the crack-prevention portion CPA is configured to surround the adjacent second pixel PX2' in both the X and Y directions. Therefore, even if a crack is generated in the inorganic film in the first side portion SS1, the crack will not propagate further through the crack-prevention portion CPA.

[0159] Figure 3 The third display area DA3 on the second side SS2 of the display panel 100 can be connected with Figure 11 The second display area DA2 of the first side SS1 is essentially the same, and therefore, for ease of explanation, its detailed description will be omitted.

[0160] Figure 12 This is a layout diagram of the second display area DA2 of the first side portion SS1 of a display panel 100 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0161] Figure 12 Exemplary embodiments and Figure 5The exemplary embodiment differs in that the size of the second pixel PX2” of the second display area DA2 is the same as... Figure 4 The size of the first pixel PX1 in the first display area DA1 is different.

[0162] refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 12 In an exemplary embodiment, the size of the second pixel PX2” in the second display area DA2 can be smaller than the size of the first pixel PX1 in the first display area DA1. This is in contrast to a pair of second pixels PX2 that are adjacent to each other in the Y direction and are in direct contact with each other. Figure 5 Compared to the exemplary embodiments, in Figure 12 In an exemplary embodiment, each second pixel PX2” is spaced apart from each other in both the X and Y directions. As a result, the anti-crack portion CPA can be positioned between every two adjacent second pixels PX2” in both the X and Y directions. Therefore, it is not necessary to ensure separate space for the anti-crack portion CPA, and the anti-crack portion CPA can be positioned within the existing space between adjacent second pixels PX2”. Therefore, the number of second pixels PX2” per unit area of ​​the second display area DA2 of the first side SS1 can be substantially the same as the number of first pixels PX1 of the first display area DA1 of the front FS. Therefore, the resolution of the first side SS1 can be substantially the same as the resolution of the front FS.

[0163] Since the size of the second pixel PX2” of the second display area DA2 is smaller than the size of the first pixel PX1 of the first display area DA1, the sizes of the first sub-pixel SP1”, the second sub-pixel SP2”, the third sub-pixel SP3” and the fourth sub-pixel SP4” of each second pixel PX2” can be smaller than the sizes of the first sub-pixel SP1”, the second sub-pixel SP2”, the third sub-pixel SP3” and the fourth sub-pixel SP4” of each first pixel PX1.

[0164] Furthermore, since the size of the second pixel PX2” of the second display area DA2 is smaller than the size of the first pixel PX1 of the first display area DA1, the sizes of the first emission area RE”, second emission area GE1”, third emission area BE”, and fourth emission area GE2” of each second pixel PX2” can be smaller than the sizes of the first emission area RE”, second emission area GE1”, third emission area BE”, and fourth emission area GE2” of each first pixel PX1. The shapes of the first emission area RE”, second emission area GE1”, third emission area BE”, and fourth emission area GE2” of each second pixel PX2” can be substantially the same as the shapes of the first emission area RE”, second emission area GE1”, third emission area BE”, and fourth emission area GE2” of each first pixel PX1.

[0165] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 12 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the size of each second pixel PX2” of the second display area DA2 of the first side SS1 can be reduced to be smaller than the size of each first pixel PX1 of the first display area DA1 of the front FS. As a result, even if the number of second pixels PX2” per unit area of ​​the second display area DA2 of the first side SS1 is the same as the number of first pixels PX1 per unit area of ​​the first display area DA1 of the front FS, the crack-resistant portion CPA can still be provided in the first side SS1. Therefore, the propagation of cracks in the inorganic film can be prevented by the crack-resistant portion CPA without needing to ensure a separate space for the crack-resistant portion CPA.

[0166] Figure 3 The third display area DA3 of the second side SS2 of the display panel 100 can be connected with Figure 12 The second display area DA2 of the first side SS1 is essentially the same, and therefore, for ease of explanation, its detailed description will be omitted.

[0167] Figure 13 This is a layout diagram of the first display area DA1 of the front portion FS of a display panel 100 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 This is a layout diagram of the second display area DA2 of the first side portion SS1 of a display panel 100 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0168] Figure 13 and Figure 14 Exemplary embodiments and Figure 4 and Figure 5 The difference in the exemplary embodiment is that each first pixel PX1”' includes three sub-pixels such as first sub-pixel SP1”', second sub-pixel SP2”' and third sub-pixel SP3”', and each second pixel PX2”' includes three sub-pixels such as first sub-pixel SP1”', second sub-pixel SP2”' and third sub-pixel SP3”'.

[0169] refer to Figure 13 and Figure 14 An exemplary embodiment, with Figure 4 and Figure 5Compared to the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2, which include a first sub-pixel SP1, a second sub-pixel SP2, a third sub-pixel SP3, and a fourth sub-pixel SP4, each first pixel PX1”' may include a first sub-pixel SP1”', a second sub-pixel SP2”', and a third sub-pixel SP3”', and each second pixel PX2”' may include a first sub-pixel SP1”', a second sub-pixel SP2”', and a third sub-pixel SP3”'. The first sub-pixel SP1”', the second sub-pixel SP2”', and the third sub-pixel SP3”' may be arranged in the X direction.

[0170] The first sub-pixel SP1”' may include a first emission region RE”', which emits light of a first color. The second sub-pixel SP2”' may include a second emission region GE”', which emits light of a second color. The third sub-pixel SP3”' may include a third emission region BE”', which emits light of a third color. The first emission region RE”', the second emission region GE”', and the third emission region BE”' may emit light of different colors.

[0171] like Figures 13 to 14 As shown in the exemplary embodiments, in a planar view (e.g., in a plane defined in the X and Y directions), the first emission region RE”', the second emission region GE”', and the third emission region BE”' of the first pixel PX1”' and the second pixel PX2”' may have a rectangular shape. However, the exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto. Alternatively, in a planar view, the first emission region RE”', the second emission region GE”', and the third emission region BE”' may have a non-quadrilateral polygonal shape, a circular shape, or an elliptical shape. Figure 13 and Figure 14 The diagram shows that the first transmission region RE”', the second transmission region GE”', and the third transmission region BE”' have substantially the same dimensions. However, exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

[0172] Figure 3 The third display area DA3 of the second side SS2 of the display panel 100 can be connected with Figure 14 The second display area DA2 of the first side SS1 is essentially the same, and therefore, for ease of explanation, its detailed description will be omitted.

[0173] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0174] Figure 15 Exemplary embodiments and Figure 1The exemplary embodiment differs in that the display panel 100 further includes a third side SS3 and a fourth side SS4. Hereinafter, the focus will be primarily on... Figure 1 Differences in exemplary embodiments Figure 15 An exemplary embodiment will be described.

[0175] refer to Figure 15 In an exemplary embodiment, the third side portion SS3 may extend from the third side of the front portion FS. The third side may be a relatively short side of the display panel 100 that is the lower side of the display panel 100 (e.g., in the Y direction). The third side portion SS3 may be bent along a third bending line BL3 provided on the third side of the front portion FS, and may have a third curvature. The third side portion SS3 may have a... Figures 1 to 14 The first side SS1 and the second side SS2 shown in the exemplary embodiment have similar structures. Although Figure 15 An exemplary embodiment shows the third side of the front FS as the lower side of the front FS (e.g., in the Y direction), but exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

[0176] The fourth side portion SS4 can extend from the fourth side of the front portion FS. The fourth side can be a relatively short side of the display panel 100, which is the upper side of the display panel 100 (e.g., in the Y direction). The fourth side portion SS4 can be bent along a fourth bend line BL4 provided on the fourth side of the front portion FS, and can have a fourth curvature. The fourth curvature can be substantially the same as or different from the third curvature. The fourth side portion SS4 can have a curvature similar to... Figures 1 to 14 The first side SS1 and the second side SS2 shown in the exemplary embodiment have similar structures. Although Figure 15 An exemplary embodiment shows the fourth side of the front FS as the upper side of the front FS, but the exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

[0177] Figure 16 This is an exploded perspective view of a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0178] Figure 16 Exemplary embodiments and Figure 3 The exemplary embodiment differs in that the display panel 100 further includes a third side SS3 and a fourth side SS4. Hereinafter, the focus will be primarily on... Figure 3 Differences in exemplary embodiments Figure 16 The exemplary embodiments are described herein, and for ease of explanation, repeated descriptions of substantially the same elements will be omitted.

[0179] refer to Figure 16In an exemplary embodiment, the front FS may include only the first display area DA1. For example, the front FS may not include a non-display area.

[0180] The first side panel SS1 may include a second display area DA2 and a first non-display area NDA1, where the second display area DA2 displays an image and the first non-display area NDA1 does not display an image. The second side panel SS2 may include a third display area DA3 and a second non-display area NDA2, where the third display area DA3 displays an image and the second non-display area NDA2 does not display an image. The third side panel SS3 may include a fourth display area DA4 and a third non-display area NDA3, where the fourth display area DA4 displays an image and the third non-display area NDA3 does not display an image. The fourth display area DA4 may be disposed below the first display area DA1 (e.g., in the Y direction), and the third non-display area NDA3 may be disposed below the fourth display area DA4. The third non-display area NDA3 may be disposed along the lower edge of the display panel 100.

[0181] The fourth side portion SS4 may include a fifth display area DA5 and a fourth non-display area NDA4. The fifth display area DA5 displays an image, and the fourth non-display area NDA4 does not display an image. The fifth display area DA5 may be disposed above the first display area DA1 (e.g., in the Y direction), and the fourth non-display area NDA4 may be disposed above the fifth display area DA5. The fourth non-display area NDA4 may be disposed along the upper edge of the display panel 100 (e.g., in the Y direction).

[0182] The first display area DA1 and the fourth display area DA4 can be divided by the third bend line BL3. For example, the first display area DA1 can be the area located on the upper side of the third bend line BL3 (e.g., in the Y direction), and the fourth display area DA4 can be the area located on the lower side of the third bend line BL3 (e.g., in the Y direction).

[0183] The first display area DA1 and the fifth display area DA5 can be divided by the fourth bend line BL4. For example, the first display area DA1 can be the area located on the lower side of the fourth bend line BL4 (e.g., in the Y direction), and the fifth display area DA5 can be the area located on the upper side of the fourth bend line BL4 (e.g., in the Y direction).

[0184] The sub-region SBA can be located on the lower side of the third non-display area NDA3. The display driver circuit 200 and the display circuit board 300 can be located in the sub-region SBA.

[0185] refer to Figure 16In an exemplary embodiment, since the front portion FS, the first side portion SS1, the second side portion SS2, the third side portion SS3, and the fourth side portion SS4 of the display panel 100 respectively include a first display area DA1, a second display area DA2, a third display area DA3, a fourth display area DA4, and a fifth display area DA5, the user can not only observe the image from the front portion FS, but also from the first side portion SS1, the second side portion SS2, the third side portion SS3, and the fourth side portion SS4 of the display panel 100. Figure 15 An exemplary embodiment may have similar features: wherein the display area is disposed in the front portion FS and each of the first side portions SS1 to the fourth side portions SS4.

[0186] The fourth display area DA4 of the third side SS3 and the fifth display area DA5 of the fourth side SS4 can be respectively connected with Figure 5 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 and Figure 14 The second display area DA2 of the first side SS1 in any of the exemplary embodiments is substantially the same, and therefore, for ease of explanation, its detailed description will be omitted.

[0187] Figure 17 and Figure 18 This is a perspective view of a display device according to other exemplary embodiments conceived in accordance with the present invention.

[0188] Figure 17 and Figure 18 The display device 10 is shown to be a foldable display device that can be folded in the X direction.

[0189] refer to Figure 17 and Figure 18 In an exemplary embodiment, the display device 10 can maintain both a folded state and an unfolded state. The display device 10 can be folded inwards, such that the front surface of the display device 10 can be disposed inside the display device 10. In this exemplary embodiment, a portion of the front surface of the display device 10 can be configured to face each other. Alternatively, the display device 10 can be folded outwards, such that the front surface of the display device 10 can be disposed outside the display device 10. In this exemplary embodiment, a portion of the rear surface of the display device 10 can be configured to face each other.

[0190] The first non-folding region NFA1 can be located on one side of the folding region FDA (e.g., in the X direction), such as the upper right side. The second non-folding region NFA2 can be located on the other side of the folding region FDA (e.g., in the X direction), such as the upper left side.

[0191] The first fold line FOL1 and the second fold line FOL2 can extend in the Y direction, and the display device 10 can be folded in the X direction. As a result, since the length of the display device 10 in the X direction can be reduced by about half, the display device 10 can have improved portability, as the user can easily carry the display device 10.

[0192] The directions in which the first fold line FOL1 and the second fold line FOL2 extend are not specifically limited to the Y direction. For example, in other exemplary embodiments, the first fold line FOL1 and the second fold line FOL2 may extend in the X direction, and the display device 10 may fold in the Y direction. In this exemplary embodiment, the length of the display device 10 in the Y direction may be reduced by approximately half. Alternatively, the first fold line FOL1 and the second fold line FOL2 may extend in a diagonal direction of the display device 10 (such as in a direction between the X and Y directions). In this exemplary embodiment, the display device 10 may fold into a triangular shape.

[0193] In an exemplary embodiment where the first fold line FOL1 and the second fold line FOL2 extend in the Y direction, the length of the folded region FDA in the X direction may be less than the length of the folded region FDA in the Y direction. The length of the first non-folded region NFA1 in the X direction may be greater than the length of the folded region FDA in the X direction. The length of the second non-folded region NFA2 in the X direction may be greater than the length of the folded region FDA in the X direction.

[0194] The first display area DA1' can be disposed on the front surface of the display device 10. The first display area DA1' can overlap with the folded area FDA, the first non-folded area NFA1, and the second non-folded area NFA2. Therefore, when the display device 10 is unfolded, an image can be displayed in the folded area FDA, the first non-folded area NFA1, and the second non-folded area NFA2 of the display device 10 in the forward direction (e.g., facing the front surface of the display device 10).

[0195] The second display area DA2' can be disposed on the rear surface of the display device 10. The second display area DA2' can overlap with the second non-folding area NFA2. Therefore, when the display device 10 is folded, an image can be displayed in the second non-folding area NFA2 of the display device 10 in the forward direction (e.g., facing the front surface of the display device 10).

[0196] In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 17 and Figure 18 The first display area DA1' of the folded area FDA in the exemplary embodiment can be connected with... Figure 5 , Figure 9 , Figure 10, Figure 11 , Figure 12 and Figure 14 The second display area DA2 of the first side SS1 in any of the exemplary embodiments is substantially the same, and therefore, its detailed description will be omitted.

[0197] Figure 19 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figures 20 to 23 This illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the concept according to the present invention. Figure 19 A cross-sectional view of the method.

[0198] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 19 to 23 The exemplary embodiments described herein illustrate a method for manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0199] Reference Figure 19 In frame S110, TFTs and multiple inorganic insulating films are formed on the substrate.

[0200] refer to Figure 20 An exemplary embodiment of the invention involves forming a first substrate SUB1 by depositing an organic material on a supporting substrate, forming a first buffer film BF1 by depositing an inorganic material on the first substrate SUB1, and forming a second substrate SUB2 by depositing an organic material on the first buffer film BF1. For example, the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 may comprise polyimide. However, exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept are not limited thereto.

[0201] A TFT ST and multiple inorganic insulating films are formed on a second substrate SUB2. Each TFT ST may include an active layer ACT, a source electrode S, a drain electrode D, and a gate electrode G. The multiple inorganic insulating films may include a second buffer film BF2, a first interlayer insulating film 141, and a second interlayer insulating film 142. (Reference) Figure 20 In an exemplary embodiment, the gate insulating film 130 may be a first insulating film, the first interlayer insulating film 141 may be a second insulating film, and the second interlayer insulating film 142 may be a third insulating film.

[0202] A light-blocking layer BML is formed on the second substrate SUB2. In an exemplary embodiment, the light-blocking layer BML can be formed by photolithography. However, the exemplary embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0203] The second buffer film BF2 is formed by depositing inorganic materials on the light-blocking layer BML.

[0204] In an exemplary embodiment, the active layer ACT of the TFT ST is formed on the second buffer film BF2 by photolithography.

[0205] The gate insulating film 130 is formed by depositing inorganic materials on the active layer ACT and the second buffer film BF2 of the TFT ST.

[0206] The gate electrode G of the TFT ST and scan lines such as the first scan line SL1 and the second scan line SL2 can be formed on the gate insulating film 130 by photolithography. Figure 20 Only the second scan initialization line GIL2 in the sub-scan lines of the second scan line SL2 is shown.

[0207] Since the gate insulating film 130 is etched using the gate electrode G of the TFT ST, the gate insulating film 130 can be disposed between the gate electrode G and the active layer ACT of the TFT ST, and between the scan lines SL1 and SL2 and the second buffer film BF2. Furthermore, since the portion of the active layer ACT of the TFT ST not covered by the gate insulating film 130 (e.g., exposed by the gate insulating film 130) is doped with impurities or ions, the exposed portion of the active layer ACT can be conductive. Therefore, conductive source electrode S and drain electrode D of the TFT ST can be formed.

[0208] The interlayer insulating film 140 includes a first interlayer insulating film 141 and a second interlayer insulating film 142. The interlayer insulating film 140 is formed by depositing inorganic materials on the gate electrode G, source electrode S and drain electrode D of the TFT ST, the first scan line SL1 and the second scan line SL2 and the second buffer film BF2.

[0209] The capacitor electrode CAE is formed on the first interlayer insulating film 141 by photolithography.

[0210] The second interlayer insulating film 142 is formed on the capacitor electrode CAE and the first interlayer insulating film 141.

[0211] After that, refer to again Figure 19 In frame S120, holes in the crack-resistant portion are formed by removing multiple inorganic insulating films (i.e., removing multiple inorganic insulating films from the crack-resistant portion).

[0212] refer to Figure 21 An exemplary embodiment of the invention involves forming a hole CPH that exposes the crack-resistant portion CPA of the second substrate SUB2 by removing the second buffer film BF2, the first interlayer insulating film 141, and the second interlayer insulating film 142 via photolithography.

[0213] In addition, during the formation of the hole CPH in the anti-crack portion CPA, the first anode contact hole ANCT1 that exposes the drain electrode D of the TFT ST is formed by removing the first interlayer insulating film 141 and the second interlayer insulating film 142.

[0214] In an exemplary embodiment, the hole CPH of the crack-resistant portion CPA and the first anode contact hole ANCT1 can be formed simultaneously. Therefore, since the additional process of forming the hole CPH of the crack-resistant portion CPA is not required, the method of manufacturing the display device 10 can have improved efficiency and reduced cost.

[0215] After that, refer to again Figure 19 In frame S130, a first organic film is formed on the TFT and multiple inorganic films.

[0216] refer to Figure 22 In an exemplary embodiment, a first anode connection electrode ANDE1 and data lines such as a first data line DL1, a second data line DL2, a third data line DL3, and a fourth data line DL4 are formed on the second interlayer insulating film 142. In an exemplary embodiment, the first anode connection electrode ANDE1 and the data lines can be formed by photolithography. The first anode connection electrode ANDE1 can be connected to the drain electrode D of the TFT ST through a first anode contact hole ANCT1.

[0217] The first organic film 160 is formed by depositing organic material on the first anode connection electrode ANDE1 and data lines such as the first data line DL1, the second data line DL2, the third data line DL3, and the fourth data line DL4. The pores CPH of the crack-resistant portion CPA can be filled by the first organic film 160.

[0218] After that, refer to again Figure 19 In frame S140, light-emitting elements, each including a first light-emitting electrode, a light-emitting layer, and a second light-emitting electrode, are formed on the first organic film.

[0219] refer to Figure 23 In an exemplary embodiment, a second anode contact hole ANCT2 is formed, which penetrates the first organic film 160 to expose the first anode connection electrode ANDE1. In an exemplary embodiment, the second anode contact hole ANCT2 can be formed by photolithography.

[0220] The second anode connection electrode ANDE2 can be formed on the first organic film 160 by photolithography. The second anode connection electrode ANDE2 can be connected to the first anode connection electrode ANDE1 through the second anode contact hole ANCT2.

[0221] A second organic film 180 is formed by depositing organic material on the first anode connecting electrode ANDE1 and the first organic film 160.

[0222] The third anode contact hole ANCT3 can be formed by photolithography. The third anode contact hole ANCT3 passes through the second organic film 180 to expose the second anode connection electrode ANDE2.

[0223] The first light-emitting electrode 171 can be formed on the second organic film 180 by photolithography. The first light-emitting electrode 171 can be connected to the second anode connection electrode ANDE2 through the third anode contact hole ANCT3.

[0224] A dam 190 can be formed on the second organic film 180 and the first light-emitting electrode 171 by photolithography. The dam 190 can be formed to cover the edge of the third anode contact hole ANCT3 and each of the first light-emitting electrodes 171.

[0225] A light-emitting layer 172 is formed on the first light-emitting electrode 171, and a second light-emitting electrode 173 is formed by depositing a metallic material on the light-emitting layer 172 and the embankment 190.

[0226] A first encapsulation film (also called the first inorganic film) TFE1 is formed by depositing inorganic material on the second light-emitting electrode 173, a second encapsulation film (also called the organic film) TFE2 is formed by depositing organic material on the first encapsulation film TFE1, and a third encapsulation film (also called the second inorganic film) TFE3 is formed by depositing inorganic material on the second encapsulation film TFE2.

[0227] like Figures 19 to 23 As shown in the exemplary embodiment, even if a crack occurs in at least one of the second buffer film BF2, the first interlayer insulating film 141, and the second interlayer insulating film 142, the propagation of the crack can be prevented by the crack-resistant portion CPA because the second buffer film BF2, the first interlayer insulating film 141, and the second interlayer insulating film 142 are not included in the hole CPH of the crack-resistant portion CPA (e.g., the second buffer film BF2, the first interlayer insulating film 141, and the second interlayer insulating film 142 are removed from the hole CPH of the crack-resistant portion CPA).

[0228] In the display device and method of manufacturing the display device according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, since the number of pixels per unit area of ​​the display area on each side is reduced to less than the number of pixels per unit area of ​​the display area on the front, space for arranging the crack-resistant portion CPA in each side can be ensured. Even if cracks occur in the inorganic film in each side, the propagation of cracks can be prevented by the crack-resistant portion.

[0229] In the display device and the method of manufacturing the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, since the buffer film and the insulating film are removed from the crack-resistant portion, the propagation of any crack in at least one of the buffer film and the insulating film is prevented by the crack-resistant portion.

[0230] In the display device and method of manufacturing the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the size of the pixels in the display area of ​​each side can be reduced to be smaller than the size of the pixels in the display area of ​​the front. Therefore, even if the number of pixels per unit area of ​​each side is the same as the number of pixels per unit area of ​​the front, the crack-prevention portion can be arranged in each side. Therefore, the propagation of cracks in the inorganic film can be prevented by the crack-prevention portion without the need to ensure additional space for the crack-prevention portion.

[0231] Although the inventive concept has been specifically shown and described with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the inventive concept as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: The display panel includes a front portion and at least one side portion that bends from at least one side of the front portion. in, The front portion includes a first display area having a first pixel disposed on a substrate. The at least one side portion includes a crack-resistant portion and a second display area having second pixels disposed on the substrate. The crack-resistant portion is disposed between adjacent second pixels in the second display area and exposes the upper surface of the substrate, wherein the crack-resistant portion reduces the number of second pixels per unit area in the second display area. The number of first pixels per unit area in the first display area on the front is greater than the number of second pixels per unit area in the second display area on at least one side, and The at least one side portion further includes a wiring region disposed between the second pixel and the anti-crack portion, wherein at least one of the scan line and data line passing through the wiring region is bent multiple times in the wiring region so as not to extend in the anti-crack portion.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, N second pixels are set between each pair of adjacent anti-crack sections in the first direction, where N is a positive integer.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein, N second pixels are disposed between each pair of adjacent anti-crack portions in a second direction that intersects with the first direction, where N is a positive integer.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein, The size of each of the anti-crack portions is less than the combined size of N second pixels.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The crack-resistant components are arranged in a zigzag pattern.

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the anti-crack sections is completely surrounded by the second pixel.

7. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The crack-resistant portion extends longitudinally in one direction.

8. The display device according to claim 7, wherein, The second pixel is arranged in the one direction.

9. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first pixel and the second pixel each include a first emission region, a second emission region, a third emission region, and a fourth emission region; and The shapes of the first emission region, the second emission region, the third emission region, and the fourth emission region of each first pixel are different from the shapes of the first emission region, the second emission region, the third emission region, and the fourth emission region of each second pixel.

10. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, P second pixels are completely surrounded by the anti-crack portion, where P is a positive integer.

11. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the second pixels includes a thin-film transistor having an active layer disposed on a buffer film of the substrate; The first insulating film is disposed on the active layer; The thin-film transistor further includes a gate electrode disposed on the first insulating film; A second insulating film is disposed on the gate electrode; The thin-film transistor further includes a first electrode and a second electrode disposed on the second insulating film; The first organic film is disposed on the first electrode and the second electrode.

12. The display device according to claim 11, wherein, Each of the crack-resistant portions includes a hole that passes through the buffer membrane and the second insulating membrane to expose the substrate.

13. The display device according to claim 12, wherein, The first organic membrane is configured to fill the pores in each of the crack-resistant portions.

14. A display device, comprising: A display panel having a base, the display panel including a front portion and at least one side portion bent from at least one side of the front portion. in, The front portion includes a first pixel. The at least one side portion includes a second pixel and a crack-resistant portion, the crack-resistant portion being configured to be adjacent to the second pixel in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction in a planar view and exposing the upper surface of the substrate, each of the crack-resistant portions including a hole extending through a plurality of inorganic insulating films. The size of each first pixel is larger than the size of each second pixel, and The at least one side portion further includes a wiring region disposed between the second pixel and the anti-crack portion, wherein at least one of the scan line and data line passing through the wiring region is bent multiple times in the wiring region so as not to extend in the anti-crack portion.

15. The display device according to claim 14, wherein, The number of first pixels per unit area in the front portion is the same as the number of second pixels per unit area in the at least one side portion.

16. The display device according to claim 14, wherein, The first pixel and the second pixel each include a first emission region, a second emission region, a third emission region, and a fourth emission region; and The shapes of the first emission region, the second emission region, the third emission region, and the fourth emission region of each first pixel are different from the shapes of the first emission region, the second emission region, the third emission region, and the fourth emission region of each second pixel.

17. The display device according to claim 14, wherein, The first pixel and the second pixel each include a first emission region, a second emission region, a third emission region, and a fourth emission region; and The size of the first emission region, the second emission region, the third emission region, and the fourth emission region of each first pixel is different from the size of the first emission region, the second emission region, the third emission region, and the fourth emission region of each second pixel.

18. A method of manufacturing a display device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, The method includes: Thin-film transistors and multiple inorganic insulating films are formed on the substrate; The crack-resistant portion is formed, the crack-resistant portion including a hole that exposes the substrate through the plurality of inorganic insulating films; A first organic film is formed on the thin-film transistor and the plurality of inorganic insulating films; and An anode electrode, an organic light-emitting layer, and a cathode electrode are formed on the first organic film for each light-emitting element.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein, The first organic film is configured to fill the pore; and / or, while forming the pore of the anti-crack portion, a contact pore is formed on one side of the active layer of the thin-film transistor that exposes the pore.

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