Display panel and display device comprising a display panel

Abstract

A display panel and a display device including the same are provided. The display device includes a window including a front area and a side area curved from the front area, the side area having a first curvature, and a display panel including a first display area facing the front area of the window and a second display area facing the side area of the window, the first display area including first, second, and third light emitting areas, and the second display area including the first, second, and third light emitting areas. The second display area includes an edge display area and a corner display area disposed at an end of the edge display area, and the first, second, and third light emitting areas of the corner display area are disposed in a stepped shape along a curved edge of the corner display area.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0084251, filed on Jul. 8, 2020, which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes as if fully set forth herein. Technical Field

[0002] Exemplary embodiments of the invention relate generally to a display panel and a display device, and more particularly, to a display panel including a region having a curved portion and a display device including the display panel. Background Art

[0003] Multimedia electronic devices such as televisions, mobile phones, tablet computers, navigators, game consoles, etc. include display devices for displaying images.

[0004] Recently, research has been conducted on reducing a non-display area of ​​a display device in which an image is not displayed according to market demands. In addition, research has been conducted on expanding a display area of ​​a display device in which an image is displayed.

[0005] The above information disclosed in this Background section is only for understanding the background of the inventive concept and therefore it may contain information that does not constitute the prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The applicant has found that a display device having a curved portion may display a distorted image in the curved portion.

[0007] A display device having a curved portion constructed according to the principles of the invention and exemplary embodiments can improve image quality by minimizing distortion of an image displayed in the curved portion.

[0008] Additional features of the inventive concepts will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the inventive concepts.

[0009] According to one aspect of the invention, a display device includes: a window, including a front area and a side area bent from the front area, the side area having a first curvature; and a display panel, including a first display area of ​​the front area facing the window and a second display area of ​​the side area facing the window, the first display area including a first light-emitting area, a second light-emitting area, and a third light-emitting area, and the second display area including a first light-emitting area, a second light-emitting area, and a third light-emitting area, wherein the second display area includes an edge display area and a corner display area arranged at an end of the edge display area, and the first light-emitting area, the second light-emitting area, and the third light-emitting area of ​​the corner display area are arranged in a stepped shape along the curved edge of the corner display area.

[0010] The first light-emitting area of ​​the second display area may have a surface area larger than the surface area of ​​the first light-emitting area of ​​the first display area, the second light-emitting area of ​​the second display area may have a surface area larger than the surface area of ​​the second light-emitting area of ​​the first display area, and the third light-emitting area of ​​the second display area may have a surface area larger than the surface area of ​​the third light-emitting area of ​​the first display area.

[0011] The second display area may include a first sub-area adjacent to the first display area and a second sub-area adjacent to the first sub-area.

[0012] The display panel may further include a driving driver disposed in the second display area, and a portion of the second sub-area overlaps the driving driver in a plan view.

[0013] The display panel may further include: a first light-emitting element and a first driving circuit, configured to control the first light-emitting area, the second light-emitting area and the third light-emitting area of ​​the first display area; and a second light-emitting element and a second driving circuit, configured to control the first light-emitting area, the second light-emitting area and the third light-emitting area of ​​the second display area, wherein the second driving circuit may be arranged in the first sub-area.

[0014] The first light emitting area, the second light emitting area, and the third light emitting area of ​​the second sub-area inside the second display area may overlap the driving driver in a plan view.

[0015] Each of the second drive circuits may have a surface area larger than a surface area of ​​each of the first drive circuits.

[0016] The width of the corner display area within the second display area in the first direction may gradually narrow as moving from the edge display area along a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0017] The width of the corner display area inside the second display area in the first direction can be substantially constant as moving along a second direction intersecting the first direction, and the width of the portion of the first display area overlapping the side area of ​​the window in the first direction can gradually narrow as moving along the second direction.

[0018] According to another aspect of the invention, a display device includes: a window including a front area and a side area bent from the front area, the side area having a first curvature; and a display panel located on the window, the display panel including a first display area facing the front area of ​​the window and a second display area facing the side area of ​​the window, the second display area including an edge display area and a corner display area arranged at the end of the edge display area, wherein: the first display area includes a plurality of first unit areas, each of the plurality of first unit areas includes a first light-emitting area, a second light-emitting area, and a third light-emitting area, and the second display area includes a plurality of second unit areas, each of the plurality of second unit areas includes a first light-emitting area, a second light-emitting area, and a third light-emitting area, and wherein: each of the plurality of second unit areas has a surface area larger than a surface area of ​​each of the plurality of first unit areas, and the plurality of second unit areas are arranged in a stepped shape along the curved edge of the corner display area.

[0019] The second display area may include a first sub-area adjacent to the first display area and a second sub-area adjacent to the first sub-area.

[0020] The display panel may further include a driving driver disposed in the second display area, and a portion of the second sub-area may overlap the driving driver in a plan view.

[0021] The width of the corner display area within the second display area in the first direction may gradually narrow as moving from the edge display area along a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0022] The width of the corner display area inside the second display area in the first direction can be substantially constant as moving along a second direction intersecting the first direction, and the width of the portion of the first display area overlapping the side area of ​​the window in the first direction can gradually narrow as moving along the second direction.

[0023] Each of the plurality of first unit regions and the plurality of second unit regions may further include a fourth light emitting region.

[0024] Two light emitting regions of the first, second, third, and fourth light emitting regions of each of the plurality of first unit regions and the plurality of second unit regions may generate light having substantially the same color.

[0025] According to another aspect of the invention, a display panel includes: a first display area, including a plurality of first unit areas, each of the plurality of first unit areas including a first light-emitting area, a second light-emitting area, and a third light-emitting area; and a second display area, adjacent to the first display area, the second display area including an edge display area and a corner display area arranged at the end of the edge display area, wherein: the second display area includes a plurality of second unit areas, each of the plurality of second unit areas including a first light-emitting area, a second light-emitting area, and a third light-emitting area, each of the plurality of second unit areas has a surface area larger than a surface area of ​​each of the plurality of first unit areas, and the plurality of second unit areas are arranged in a stepped shape along the curved edge of the corner display area.

[0026] The second display area may include a first sub-area adjacent to the first display area and a second sub-area adjacent to the first sub-area.

[0027] The display panel may further include: a first light-emitting element and a first driving circuit, configured to control the first light-emitting area, the second light-emitting area and the third light-emitting area of ​​the first display area; and a second light-emitting element and a second driving circuit, configured to control the first light-emitting area, the second light-emitting area and the third light-emitting area of ​​the second display area, wherein the second driving circuit may be arranged in the first sub-area.

[0028] The width of the corner display area inside the second display area in the first direction can be basically constant as moving along the second direction intersecting the first direction, and the width of the portion of the first display area adjacent to the second display area in the first direction can gradually narrow as moving along the second direction.

[0029] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention and together with the description serve to explain the inventive concept.

[0031] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a display device constructed according to the principles of the invention.

[0032] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of a display device.

[0033] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A side view of a display device.

[0034] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A plan view of a display device.

[0035] Figure 5A yes Figure 4 An enlarged plan view of area A1.

[0036] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A An enlarged plan view of area A3.

[0037] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 Area A2 shows Figure 2 An enlarged plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a display panel is shown.

[0038] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 An equivalent circuit diagram of a representative pixel of a display panel of a display device.

[0039] Figure 8 yes Figure 2 The display panel and Figure 5A A cross-sectional view corresponding to the first light-emitting area in the light-emitting areas.

[0040] Figure 9A 、 Figure 9B and Figure 9C yes Figure 4 Area A2 shows Figure 2 FIG. 1 is an enlarged plan view of another exemplary embodiment of a display panel.

[0041] Figure 10 yes Figure 4 Area A2 shows Figure 2 FIG. 1 is an enlarged plan view of another exemplary embodiment of a display panel.

[0042] Figure 11 yes Figure 4 Area A2 shows Figure 2 FIG. 1 is an enlarged plan view of another exemplary embodiment of a display panel. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] In the following description, for the purpose of explanation, many specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the various exemplary embodiments or implementations of the invention. As used herein, "embodiment" and "implementation" are interchangeable terms and are non-limiting examples of devices or methods employing one or more of the inventive concepts disclosed herein. However, it is apparent that the various exemplary embodiments may be practiced without these specific details or with one or more equivalent arrangements. In other cases, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the various exemplary embodiments. In addition, the various exemplary embodiments may be different, but need not be exclusive. For example, the specific shape, construction, and characteristics of an exemplary embodiment may be used or implemented in another exemplary embodiment without departing from the inventive concept.

[0044] Unless otherwise specified, the exemplary embodiments shown are to be understood as providing exemplary features of various details of some ways in which the inventive concept can be implemented in the manner described. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the features, components, modules, layers, films, panels, regions and / or aspects of the various embodiments (hereinafter individually or collectively referred to as "elements") may be further combined, separated, interchanged and / or rearranged without departing from the inventive concept.

[0045] The use of cross hatching and / or shading is generally provided in the accompanying drawings to make the boundaries between adjacent elements clear. Thus, unless otherwise specified, the presence and absence of cross hatching or shading do not convey or indicate any preference or requirement for the specific material, material properties, size, ratio, commonality between the elements shown and / or any other characteristics, attributes, properties, etc. of the elements. In addition, in the accompanying drawings, the size and relative size of the elements may be exaggerated for clarity and / or descriptive purposes. When the exemplary embodiments can be implemented differently, the specific process sequence can be performed differently from the described order. For example, two continuously described processes can be performed substantially simultaneously or in an order opposite to the described order. In addition, the same reference numerals represent the same elements.

[0046] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, the element or layer may be directly on, directly connected to, or directly coupled to the other element or layer, or there may be intervening elements or layers. However, when an element or layer is referred to as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers. For this purpose, the term "connected" may refer to a physical connection, an electrical connection, and / or a fluid connection with or without intervening elements. In addition, the DR1 axis, the DR2 axis, and the DR3 axis are not limited to the three axes of a rectangular coordinate system (such as the x-axis, the y-axis, and the z-axis), but may be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the DR1 axis, the DR2 axis, and the DR3 axis may be perpendicular to each other, or may represent different directions that are not perpendicular to each other. For the purposes of this disclosure, “at least one of X, Y, and Z” and “at least one selected from the group consisting of X, Y, and Z” may be interpreted as only X, only Y, only Z, or any combination of two or more of X, Y, and Z, such as XYZ, XYY, YZ, and ZZ for example. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the relevant listed items.

[0047] Although the terms "first," "second," etc. may be used herein to describe various types of elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element from another. Thus, the first element discussed below could be named the second element without departing from the disclosed teachings.

[0048] For descriptive purposes, spatially relative terms such as "under," "beneath," "beneath," "down," "over," "up," "above," "higher," "side" (e.g., as in "sidewall"), etc., may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element to another (other) element as shown in the accompanying drawings. Spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use, operation, and / or manufacture in addition to the orientation depicted in the accompanying drawings. For example, if the device in the drawings is turned over, an element described as "under" or "beneath" other elements or features would subsequently be positioned "over" the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "under" can encompass both above and below orientations. Furthermore, the device can be positioned otherwise (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations), and as such, the spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0049] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular "one", "one (kind / person)" and "said (the)" are also intended to include plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In addition, when using the terms "comprise" and / or "include" and variations thereof in this manual, the description indicates the presence of stated features, integral bodies, steps, operations, elements, components and / or their groups, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integral bodies, steps, operations, elements, components and / or their groups. It should also be noted that, as used herein, the terms "substantially (substantially)", "approximately (about)" and other similar terms are used as approximate terms and not as degree terms, and so they are used to explain the inherent deviations in measured values, calculated values ​​and / or provided values ​​that will be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0050] Various exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional and / or exploded views that are schematic representations of idealized exemplary embodiments and / or intermediate structures. As such, variations in the shapes of the illustrations due to, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances are to be expected. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein should not necessarily be construed as limited to the specific illustrated shapes of the regions, but are to include deviations in shape due to, for example, manufacturing. In this manner, the regions illustrated in the accompanying drawings may be schematic in nature, and the shapes of these regions may not reflect the actual shapes of the regions of the device and, as such, are not necessarily intended to be limiting.

[0051] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure is a part. Terms (such as those defined in common dictionaries) should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined as such herein.

[0052] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0053] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a display device constructed according to the principles of the invention. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of a display device. Figure 3 When viewed in the second direction Figure 1 A side view of a display device.

[0054] Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 3The display device DD is shown as a mobile phone. However, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the display device DD may be a large-sized electronic device such as a television or monitor, or a small or medium-sized electronic device such as a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a car navigation system, a game console, or a smartwatch.

[0055] Reference Figure 1 , the display device DD may include active areas AA1 and AA2 in which the image IM is displayed and a peripheral area NAA in which the image IM is not displayed. Figure 1 , the image IM is shown as a date image and a time image.

[0056] The active areas AA1 and AA2 may include a first active area AA1 having a planar shape and a second active area AA2 bent from the first active area AA1. The second active area AA2 may be an area bent from the first active area AA1 with a predetermined curvature. However, exemplary embodiments are not limited to the shape of the second active area AA2 shown in the drawings. For example, the second active area AA2 may be bent from the first active area AA1 and may have a planar shape that is inclined relative to or substantially perpendicular to the first active area AA1. The first active area AA1 and the second active area AA2 may be areas that are only symbolically divided and may essentially implement one display surface. The peripheral area NAA may be an area in which the image IM is not displayed. The border area of ​​the display device DD may be defined by the peripheral area NAA. In addition, the image may not be displayed in a partial area of ​​the second active area AA2. For example, the border area may be defined along the edge of the second active area AA2.

[0057] The first active area AA1 is substantially parallel to a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The normal direction of the first active area AA1 (i.e., the thickness direction of the display device DD) may be substantially parallel to the third direction DR3. The front surface (e.g., top surface) and the rear surface (e.g., bottom surface) of each component of the display device DD are distinguished by the third direction DR3. However, the directions indicated as the first direction to the third directions DR1, DR2, and DR3 may be relative concepts and may be changed to different directions.

[0058] The second active area AA2 may be an area bent from the first active area AA1 to extend. The second active area AA2 includes edge active areas AA2_E1 and AA2_E2 bent from the side of the first active area AA1, and corner active areas AA2_C1, AA2_C2, AA2_C3, and AA2_C4 bent from the corners of the first active area AA1. The second active area AA2 includes a first edge active area AA2_E1 bent from the first side of the first active area AA1 and a second edge active area AA2_E2 bent from the second side of the first active area AA1. For example, the first and second sides of the first active area AA1 may be long sides and opposite to each other. The second active area AA2 includes a first corner active area AA2_C1 bent from the first corner of the first active area AA1, a second corner active area AA2_C2 bent from the second corner of the first active area AA1, a third corner active area AA2_C3 bent from the third corner of the first active area AA1, and a fourth corner active area AA2_C4 bent from the fourth corner of the first active area AA1.

[0059] The first corner effective area AA2_C1 is disposed at one end of the first edge effective area AA2_E1, and the second corner effective area AA2_C2 is disposed at the other end of the first edge effective area AA2_E1. The third corner effective area AA2_C3 is disposed at one end of the second edge effective area AA2_E2, and the fourth corner effective area AA2_C4 is disposed at the other end of the second edge effective area AA2_E2.

[0060] The number of edge active areas AA2_E1 and AA2_E2 and the number of corner active areas AA2_C1 to AA2_C4 are not limited thereto. For example, the number of edge active areas AA2_E1 and AA2_E2 and the number of corner active areas AA2_C1 to AA2_C4 provided in the second active area AA2 may vary depending on the shape of the first active area AA1. For example, the display device DD may further include a second active area that bends and extends from a short side of the first active area AA1.

[0061] Each of the first edge effective area AA2_E1 and the second edge effective area AA2_E2 may be curved with a predetermined curvature in the third direction DR3. Each of the first edge effective area AA2_E1 and the second edge effective area AA2_E2 may have a short curved shape. In addition, each of the first corner effective area AA2_C1, the second corner effective area AA2_C2, the third corner effective area AA2_C3, and the fourth corner effective area AA2_C4 may be curved with a predetermined curvature in the third direction DR3. Each of the first corner effective area AA2_C1, the second corner effective area AA2_C2, the third corner effective area AA2_C3, and the fourth corner effective area AA2_C4 may have a double curved shape.

[0062] In an exemplary embodiment, the first image displayed in the first active area AA1 and the second image displayed in the second active area AA2 may be dependent on each other. For example, the combination of the first and second images may form a picture, a scene from a movie, or a UI / UX design. The second active area AA2, which is curved at a predetermined curvature, may improve the aesthetics of the display device DD and reduce the surface area of ​​the peripheral area NAA that is visible to the user.

[0063] Reference Figure 2 The display device DD may include a window WM, a display panel DP, and a housing HU. The window WM protects the top surface of the display panel DP. The window WM may be optically transparent. Thus, an image displayed on the display panel DP can pass through the window WM and be visually recognized by a user. For example, the display surface of the display device DD may be defined by the window WM. The window WM may be made of glass, plastic, a film, or the like.

[0064] Reference Figure 3 , the window WM may have a curved structure. The window WM may include a front surface FS and one or more curved surfaces (e.g., side areas) curved from the front surface. Here, the front surface FS and at least one curved surface may be defined as a transmissive portion that transmits an image or light. The front surface FS of the window WM may define a first active area AA1 (e.g., Figure 1 ), and at least one curved surface may define a second active area AA2 (e.g., Figure 1 The second active area AA2 in the .

[0065] exist Figure 3In the exemplary embodiment shown in , the window WM may include two curved surfaces, for example, a first curved surface ES1 and a second curved surface ES2. In this exemplary embodiment, the front surface FS may be a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The front surface FS may be substantially perpendicular to the third direction DR3. Each of the first curved surface ES1 and the second curved surface ES2 is curved from the front surface FS.

[0066] Each of the first curved surface ES1 and the second curved surface ES2 is bent from the front surface FS. The first curved surface ES1 and the second curved surface ES2 may be bent from a first side and a second side of the front surface FS, respectively. The first side and the second side of the front surface FS may be substantially parallel to the second direction DR2. The first curved surface ES1 and the second curved surface ES2 may be disposed substantially parallel to each other in the second direction DR2.

[0067] Each of the first curved surface ES1 and the second curved surface ES2 may be bent from the front surface FS at a predetermined curvature.According to an exemplary embodiment, the first curved surface ES1 and the second curved surface ES2 may have substantially the same curvature.

[0068] The first corner CS1 and the second corner CS2 are respectively disposed at one end and the other end of the first curved surface ES1. The third corner CS3 and the fourth corner CS4 are respectively disposed at one end and the other end of the second curved surface ES2. Here, each of the first corner CS1, the second corner CS2, the third corner CS3, and the fourth corner CS4 can be defined as a transmission portion of a transmitted image or light.

[0069] Figure 4 is a plan view of a display panel according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0070] Reference Figure 2 、 Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the display panel DP may include a display area for displaying an image. According to an exemplary embodiment, the display area may include a first display area DA1 and a second display area DA2. The first display area DA1 may be arranged substantially parallel to the front surface FS of the window WM and may have a shape corresponding to the front surface FS. For example, the first display area DA1 may be a flat display area having a planar shape. The second display area DA2 is arranged to correspond to one or more curved surfaces and one or more corners. The second display area DA2 may have a curved shape corresponding to at least one curved surface and at least one corner.

[0071] The second display area DA2 includes a first corner display area DA2_C1, a second corner display area DA2_C2, a third corner display area DA2_C3, and a fourth corner display area DA2_C4, which are respectively arranged to correspond to the first corner active area AA2_C1, the second corner active area AA2_C2, the third corner active area AA2_C3, and the fourth corner active area AA2_C4. The first edge display area DA2_E1 and the second edge display area DA2_E2 can be curved from the first side and the second side of the first display area DA1 and are respectively arranged to correspond to the first curved surface ES1 and the second curved surface ES2 of the window WM. The first side and the second side of the first display area DA1 extend substantially parallel to the second direction DR2. Each of the first edge display area DA2_E1 and the second edge display area DA2_E2 can have a predetermined curvature and bend from the first display area DA1.

[0072] Although the above description describes a structure in which the second display area DA2 of the display panel DP according to an exemplary embodiment includes two edge display areas DA2_E1 and DA2_E2, the structure of the display panel DP according to the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the second display area DA2 of the display panel DP may include only one edge display area or only two edge display areas located on the third and fourth sides of the first display area DA1. Furthermore, the second display area DA2 of the display panel DP may include four edge display areas located on all of the first, second, third, and fourth sides of the first display area DA1.

[0073] The second display area DA2 may further include a first corner display area DA2_C1, a second corner display area DA2_C2, a third corner display area DA2_C3, and a fourth corner display area DA2_C4, which are respectively arranged to correspond to the first corner CS1, the second corner CS2, the third corner CS3, and the fourth corner CS4 of the window WM. The first corner display area DA2_C1 and the second corner display area DA2_C2 are respectively arranged at one end and the other end of the first edge display area DA2_E1. The third corner display area DA2_C3 and the fourth corner display area DA2_C4 are respectively arranged at one end and the other end of the second edge display area DA2_E2. The first corner display area DA2_C1, the second corner display area DA2_C2, the third corner display area DA2_C3, and the fourth corner display area DA2_C4 may be areas in which images are basically displayed. However, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. According to another exemplary embodiment, the first corner display area DA2_C1, the second corner display area DA2_C2, the third corner display area DA2_C3 and the fourth corner display area DA2_C4 may be areas where images are not displayed, and only some of the first corner display area DA2_C1, the second corner display area DA2_C2, the third corner display area DA2_C3 and the fourth corner display area DA2_C4 may display images.

[0074] The display panel DP may include pixels disposed in the first display area DA1 and pixels disposed in the second display area DA2. Each of the pixels may include a light emitting element and a driving circuit connected to the light emitting element.

[0075] The display panel DP may further include drive drivers GDC1 and GDC2. The drive drivers GDC1 and GDC2 may include a first drive driver GDC1 and a second drive driver GDC2. Each of the first drive driver GDC1 and the second drive driver GDC2 may generate a plurality of scan signals and a plurality of emission control signals and may output the generated signals to corresponding pixels.

[0076] The display panel DP may further include a non-display area NDA around the second display area DA2. The non-display area NDA is a region in which substantially no image is displayed. The non-display area NDA may surround the second display area DA2.

[0077] Each of the first drive driver GDC1 and the second drive driver GDC2 can be arranged inside the second display area DA2, or can be arranged to partially overlap with the second display area DA2 (for example, partially overlap with the second display area DA2 in the third direction DR3 or in a plan view). When each of the first drive driver GDC1 and the second drive driver GDC2 is arranged inside the second display area DA2, the width of the non-display area NDA can be prevented from increasing due to the first drive driver GDC1 and the second drive driver GDC2. The surface area of ​​the non-display area NDA in the display device DD that is visually recognized by the user can be reduced by the second display area DA2. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the first drive driver GDC1 and the second drive driver GDC2 can be a scan driver. In an exemplary embodiment, the first drive driver GDC1 can be a scan driver for driving a scan line, and the second drive driver GDC2 can be a light-emitting driver for driving an emission control line.

[0078] In an exemplary embodiment, the first image displayed in the first display area DA1 and the second image displayed in the second display area DA2 may be dependent on each other. For example, a picture, a scene of a movie, or a UI / UX design may be formed by combining the first image and the second image. However, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, a portion of the display area of ​​the second display area DA2 (e.g., the first corner display area DA2_C1, the second corner display area DA2_C2, the third corner display area DA2_C3, and the fourth corner display area DA2_C4) may display a predetermined pattern image or a black image that is independent of the first image.

[0079] According to exemplary embodiments, the display panel DP may be an organic light emitting display panel, an electrophoretic display panel, or an electrowetting display panel. In addition, the display panel DP may be a flexible display panel that can be bent along the shape of the window WM.

[0080] Refer again Figure 2 , the display panel DP may further include a pad (also called a "pad" or "solder pad") area PP extending from the second display area DA2. The driver chip D-IC and the pad may be arranged in the pad area PP of the display panel DP. The driver chip D-IC may provide a driving signal to the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 of the display panel DP. The driver chip D-IC may be mounted on the display panel DP. The display panel DP may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board FCB through the pad. In an exemplary embodiment, the driver chip D-IC may be mounted on the printed circuit board FCB.

[0081] The housing HU includes a bottom BP and sidewalls SW. The sidewalls SW may extend from the bottom BP. The housing HU may accommodate the display panel DP in a receiving space defined by the bottom BP and the sidewalls SW. The window WM may be coupled to the sidewalls SW of the housing HU. The sidewalls SW of the housing HU may support the edges of the window WM.

[0082] The housing 110 may be made of a relatively rigid material. For example, the housing HU may be made of glass, plastic, or metal, or may include a plurality of frames and / or plates made of a combination of glass, plastic, and metal. The housing HU may stably protect the components of the display device DD housed in the housing space from external impact.

[0083] Figure 5A yes Figure 4 is an enlarged plan view of area A1, and Figure 5B yes Figure 5A An enlarged plan view of area A3. Figure 6 yes Figure 4 An enlarged plan view of area A2.

[0084] For example, each of the second corner display area DA2_C2, the third corner display area DA2_C3, and the fourth corner display area DA2_C4 may have a pixel configuration, a pixel arrangement, and a light-emitting area arrangement that are substantially the same as those of the first corner display area DA2_C1, which will be described later. The second edge display area DA2_E2 may have a pixel configuration, a pixel arrangement, and a light-emitting area arrangement that are substantially the same as those of the first edge display area DA2_E1, which will be described later.

[0085] Three types of pixels are provided in each of the first corner display area DA2_C1 and the first display area DA1. The three types of pixels generating light having different colors may be defined as first color pixels, second color pixels, and third color pixels. Each of the three types of pixels may include a driving circuit and a light-emitting element.

[0086] Figure 5A The light emitting regions LR, LG and LB of the light emitting element are shown. The first light emitting region LR is the light emitting region of the first color pixel, the second light emitting region LG is the light emitting region of the second color pixel, and the third light emitting region LB is the light emitting region of the third color pixel. For example, the driving circuit DC and the light emitting diode ED (see FIG. 1 ) provided in the first light emitting region LR are Figure 7 ) can constitute a pixel PX.

[0087] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 Equivalent circuit diagram of a representative pixel of a display panel.

[0088] Figure 7 An equivalent circuit diagram of a pixel PX connected to a data line DLi, scan lines GCLj, GILj, GWLj, and GWLj+1, and an emission control line EMLj is shown.

[0089] In the present exemplary embodiment, the driving circuit DC of the pixel PX includes a first transistor T1 to a seventh transistor T7 and a capacitor Cst. Each of the first transistor T1, the second transistor T2, the fifth transistor T5, the sixth transistor T6 and the seventh transistor T7 is a P-type transistor having a low-temperature polycrystalline silicon (LTPS) semiconductor layer, and each of the third transistor T3 and the fourth transistor T4 is an N-type transistor using an oxide semiconductor as a semiconductor layer. However, the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, all of the first transistor T1 to the seventh transistor T7 may be N-type transistors or P-type transistors. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the first transistor T1 to the seventh transistor T7 may be an N-type transistor, and the others may be P-type transistors. In addition, Figure 7 The drive circuit DC shown in is merely an example, and the circuit configuration of the drive circuit DC may be modified.

[0090] Reference Figure 7 , a pixel PX of the display device DD according to an exemplary embodiment includes at least one light emitting diode ED. In the present exemplary embodiment, an example in which one pixel PX includes one light emitting diode ED is described, but the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0091] For ease of explanation, Figure 7 In the description, the scan line GCLj, the scan line GILj, the scan line GWLj, and the scan line GWLj+1 are respectively referred to as the first scan line GCLj, the second scan line GILj, the third scan line GWLj, and the fourth scan line GWLj+1.

[0092] The first scan line GCLj, the second scan line GILj, the third scan line GWLj, and the fourth scan line GWLj+1 can transmit a first scan signal GCj, a second scan signal GIj, a third scan signal GWj, and a fourth scan signal GWj+1, respectively. The first scan signal GCj can turn on / off the third transistor T3. The second scan signal GIj can turn on / off the fourth transistor T4. The third scan signal GWj can turn on / off the second transistor T2. The fourth scan signal GWj+1 can turn on / off the seventh transistor T7.

[0093] The emission control line EMLj may transmit an emission control signal EMj capable of controlling the light emission of the light emitting diode ED provided in the pixel PX. The emission control signal EMj transmitted through the emission control line EMLj may have a waveform different from the waveform of each of the first scan signal GCj, the second scan signal GIj, the third scan signal GWj, and the fourth scan signal GWj+1. The data line DLi transmits a data signal Di. The data signal Di may have a waveform different from the waveform of the first scan signal GCj, the second scan signal GIj, the third scan signal GWj, and the fourth scan signal GWj+1. Figure 2 ) corresponds to a voltage level of a video signal (RGB). The first driving voltage line VL1 and the second driving voltage line VL2 can transmit a first driving voltage ELVDD and a second driving voltage ELVSS, respectively.

[0094] The first transistor T1 includes a first electrode connected to the first driving voltage line VL1 via the fifth transistor T5, a second electrode electrically connected to the anode of the light emitting diode ED via the sixth transistor T6, and a gate electrode connected to one end of the capacitor Cst. The first transistor T1 can receive a data signal Di transmitted from the data line DLi according to the switching operation of the second transistor T2 to supply a driving current Id to the light emitting diode ED.

[0095] The second transistor T2 includes a first electrode connected to the data line DLi, a second electrode connected to the first electrode of the first transistor T1, and a gate electrode connected to the third scan line GWLj. The second transistor T2 can be turned on in response to a third scan signal GWj transmitted through the third scan line GWLj to transmit a data signal Di transmitted from the data line DLi to the first electrode of the first transistor T1.

[0096] The third transistor T3 includes a first electrode connected to the gate electrode of the first transistor T1, a second electrode connected to the second electrode of the first transistor T1, and a gate electrode connected to the first scan line GCLj. The third transistor T3 can be turned on in response to a first scan signal GCj transmitted via the first scan line GCLj to connect the gate electrode of the first transistor T1 to the second electrode of the first transistor T1, thereby diode-connecting the first transistor T1.

[0097] The fourth transistor T4 includes a first electrode connected to the gate electrode of the first transistor T1, a second electrode connected to the third voltage line VL3 through which the initialization voltage VINT1 is transmitted, and a gate electrode connected to the second scan line GILj. The fourth transistor T4 can be turned on in response to the second scan signal GIj transmitted through the second scan line GILj to transmit the initialization voltage VINT1 to the gate electrode of the first transistor T1, thereby performing an initialization operation for initializing the voltage of the gate electrode of the first transistor T1.

[0098] The fifth transistor T5 includes a first electrode connected to the first driving voltage line VL1 , a second electrode connected to the first electrode of the first transistor T1 , and a gate electrode connected to the emission control line EMLj.

[0099] The sixth transistor T6 includes a first electrode connected to the second electrode of the first transistor T1, a second electrode connected to the anode of the light emitting diode ED, and a gate electrode connected to the emission control line EMLj.

[0100] The fifth transistor T5 and the sixth transistor T6 may be turned on substantially simultaneously according to the emission control signal EMj transmitted through the emission control line EMLj, and thus the first driving voltage ELVDD may be compensated by the diode-connected first transistor T1 and transmitted to the light emitting diode ED.

[0101] The seventh transistor T7 includes a first electrode connected to the second electrode of the fourth transistor T4 , a second electrode connected to the second electrode of the sixth transistor T6 , and a gate electrode connected to the fourth scan line GWLj+1.

[0102] As described above, one end of the capacitor Cst is connected to the gate electrode of the first transistor T1, and the other end of the capacitor Cst is connected to the first driving voltage line VL1. The cathode of the light emitting diode ED may be connected to the second driving voltage line VL2 transmitting the second driving voltage ELVSS. The structure of the pixel PX according to the exemplary embodiment is not limited to Figure 3 , and the number of each of transistors and capacitors provided in one pixel PX and the connection relationship therebetween can be variously modified.

[0103] Figure 8 Is the display panel with Figure 5A A cross-sectional view corresponding to the first light-emitting area in the light-emitting areas. Figure 8 A cross-sectional view is shown of a light emitting diode ED corresponding to a light emitting element and a first transistor T1 constituting a driving circuit DC.

[0104] The first transistor T1 and the light emitting diode ED are disposed on the base layer BL. The base layer BL may include a synthetic resin layer. The circuit element layer DP-CL is disposed on the base layer BL.

[0105] In the present exemplary embodiment, the circuit element layer DP-CL may include a buffer layer BFL, first, second, and third intermediate inorganic layers L10, L20, and L30 as inorganic layers, and first and second intermediate organic layers L40 and L50 as organic layers.

[0106] The semiconductor pattern is disposed on the buffer layer BFL. The semiconductor pattern may include a silicon semiconductor. The semiconductor pattern may include polycrystalline silicon. However, the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto, and the semiconductor pattern may include amorphous silicon. The semiconductor pattern may include a metal oxide semiconductor.

[0107] Depending on whether the semiconductor pattern is doped, the semiconductor pattern has different electrical properties. The semiconductor pattern may include a doped region and an undoped region. The doped region may be doped with an N-type dopant or a P-type dopant. A P-type transistor includes a doped region doped with a P-type dopant. The doped region may have a conductivity greater than that of the undoped region and may essentially serve as an electrode or a signal line. The undoped region may essentially correspond to the active region (e.g., a channel region) of the transistor. In other words, a portion of the semiconductor pattern may be the active region (e.g., a channel region) of the transistor, another portion may be the source region (e.g., an input electrode region) or drain region (e.g., an output electrode region) of the transistor, and another portion may be a connection signal line (e.g., a connection electrode).

[0108] like Figure 8 As shown in , the source region S1, the active region A1, and the drain region D1 of the first transistor T1 are formed by a semiconductor pattern. Figure 7 In the exemplary embodiment shown in , since the first transistor T1 is a P-type transistor, the semiconductor pattern of the first transistor T1 may include a doping region doped with a P-type dopant. Figure 8 A portion of a connection signal line SCL formed of a semiconductor pattern is shown. For example, the connection signal line SCL may be connected to another transistor (eg, a driving transistor) constituting the pixel driving circuit DC on a plane.

[0109] The control electrode G1 is disposed on the first intermediate inorganic layer L10 to overlap the active area A1. The first capacitor electrode CPE1 of the capacitor Cst is disposed on the first intermediate inorganic layer L10. The second capacitor electrode CPE2 of the capacitor Cst is disposed on the second intermediate inorganic layer L20.

[0110] The first connection electrode CNE1 may be provided on the third intermediate inorganic layer L30. The first connection electrode CNE1 may be connected to the connection signal line SCL through the first through hole CH1. The second connection electrode CNE2 may be provided on the first intermediate organic layer L40. The second connection electrode CNE2 may be connected to the first connection electrode CNE1 through the second through hole CH2. For example, a conductive pattern different from the first connection electrode CNE1 may be provided on the third intermediate inorganic layer L30, and a conductive pattern different from the second connection electrode CNE2 may be provided on the first intermediate organic layer L40. The conductive pattern may constitute a signal line, for example, Figure 7 The data line DLi shown in FIG.

[0111] The first electrode AE ​​is disposed on the second intermediate organic layer L50. The first electrode AE ​​may be connected to the second connection electrode CNE2 through the third through hole CH3. A light emitting opening OP is defined in the pixel defining layer PDL. The light emitting opening OP of the pixel defining layer PDL exposes at least a portion of the first electrode AE.

[0112] The first display area DA1 (see Figure 4 ) may include a light emitting region LR and a non-light emitting region NL adjacent to the light emitting region LR. The non-light emitting region NL may surround the light emitting region LR. In this exemplary embodiment, the light emitting region LR is defined to correspond to a portion of the first electrode AE ​​exposed by the light emitting opening OP. The non-light emitting region NL may be a region where a driving circuit DC is provided (see FIG. Figure 7 ) area.

[0113] The hole control layer HCL may be commonly disposed in the light-emitting region LR and the non-light-emitting region NL. The hole control layer HCL may include a hole transport layer and may also include a hole injection layer. The emission layer EML is disposed on the hole control layer HCL. The emission layer EML may be disposed in a region corresponding to the light-emitting opening OP. For example, the emission layer EML may be formed so as to be separate in each of the pixels PX. The emission layer EML may include an organic material and / or an inorganic material. The emission layer EML may generate light having a predetermined color.

[0114] The electron control layer (ECL) is disposed on the emission layer (EML). The electron control layer (ECL) may include an electron transport layer and may also include an electron injection layer. The hole control layer (HCL) and the electron control layer (ECL) may be commonly formed in multiple pixels using an open mask. The second electrode (CE) is disposed on the electron control layer (ECL). The second electrode (CE) is commonly disposed in multiple pixels. The upper insulating layer (TFL) is disposed on the second electrode (CE). The upper insulating layer (TFL) may include multiple thin films. The multiple thin films may include organic layers and / or inorganic layers.

[0115] Refer again Figure 5A 、 Figure 5B and Figure 6 , the first edge display area DA2_E1 and the first corner display area DA2_C1 will be described in more detail.

[0116] First, refer to Figure 5A and Figure 5BThe first display area DA1 of the display panel DP includes a plurality of first unit areas UA1. For example, each of the plurality of first unit areas UA1 has a substantially identical arrangement of light-emitting areas. The plurality of first unit areas UA1 include a first light-emitting area LR, a second light-emitting area LG, and a third light-emitting area LB. In the present exemplary embodiment, each of the plurality of first unit areas UA1 includes one first light-emitting area LR, two second light-emitting areas LG, and one third light-emitting area LB. The first light-emitting area LR and the third light-emitting area LB may be arranged in a row in the second direction DR2, and the two second light-emitting areas LG may be arranged in a row in the second direction DR2. However, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the arrangement order and arrangement shape of the first to third light-emitting areas LR, LG, and LB in each of the first unit areas UA1 may be variously modified. For example, the first light-emitting area LR and the third light-emitting area LB may be arranged in a row in the first direction DR1, and the two second light-emitting areas LG may be arranged in a row in the first direction DR1. According to another exemplary embodiment, the two second light emitting regions LG may be disposed to face each other in a diagonal direction between the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2, and the first and third light emitting regions LR and LB may be disposed to face each other in another diagonal direction.

[0117] One of the two second light emitting regions LG may be defined as a fourth light emitting region separate from the second light emitting region LG. For example, the second light emitting region LG and the fourth light emitting region may have different planar shapes. The number and type of light emitting regions provided in the plurality of first unit areas UA1 are not particularly limited thereto.

[0118] In this exemplary embodiment, the first light-emitting region LR can generate red light as a first color light-emitting region. Each of the two second light-emitting regions LG can generate green light as a second color light-emitting region. The third light-emitting region LB can generate blue light as a third color light-emitting region. Red, green, and blue light can be converted into other three primary colors.

[0119] The first edge display area DA2_E1 may include a first sub-edge area (e.g., a first sub-area) SEA1 and a second sub-edge area (e.g., a second sub-area) SEA2. The first sub-edge area SEA1 is adjacent to the first display area DA1, and the second sub-edge area SEA2 is adjacent to the first sub-edge area SEA1. The second sub-edge area SEA2 overlaps the first drive driver GDC1 (e.g., in the third direction DR3 or in a plan view).

[0120] The first edge display area DA2_E1 includes a plurality of second unit areas UA2. For example, each of the plurality of second unit areas UA2 has substantially the same light-emitting area arrangement. The plurality of second unit areas UA2 include a first light-emitting area LR, a second light-emitting area LG, and a third light-emitting area LB. In this exemplary embodiment, each of the plurality of second unit areas UA2 may have a light-emitting area arrangement substantially the same as that of each of the plurality of first unit areas UA1.

[0121] The first sub-edge area SEA1 may include a driving circuit DC corresponding to the first, second, and third light emitting areas LR, LG, and LB, but the second sub-edge area SEA2 may not include the driving circuit DC corresponding to the first, second, and third light emitting areas LR, LG, and LB.

[0122] Since the first light emitting area LR, the second light emitting area LG and the third light emitting area LB inside the second sub-edge area SEA2 overlap with the first drive circuit GDC1 in a plan view, the drive circuit DC corresponding to the first light emitting area LR, the second light emitting area LG and the third light emitting area LB inside the second sub-edge area SEA2 is set in the first sub-edge area SEA1.

[0123] In other words, the driving circuit DC corresponding to the first light-emitting area LR, the second light-emitting area LG and the third light-emitting area LB inside the first sub-edge area SEA1 and the driving circuit DC corresponding to the first light-emitting area LR, the second light-emitting area LG and the third light-emitting area LB inside the second sub-edge area SEA2 can be set in the first sub-edge area SEA1.

[0124] The light emitting diodes corresponding to the first light emitting area LR, the second light emitting area LG, and the third light emitting area LB of the second sub edge area SEA2 may be electrically connected to the corresponding driving circuit DC provided in the first sub edge area SEA1. Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown in , the first display area DA1 also includes a driving circuit DC, but a surface area of ​​the driving circuit DC in the first display area DA1 is smaller than a surface area of ​​the driving circuit DC in the first sub edge area SEA1.

[0125] Each of the second unit areas UA2 may have a surface area larger than the surface area of ​​each of the first unit areas UA1 (for example, in a plan view). For example, the first light-emitting area LR inside each second unit area UA2 may have a surface area larger than the surface area of ​​the first light-emitting area LR inside each first unit area UA1 (for example, in a plan view). The second light-emitting area LG inside each second unit area UA2 may have a surface area larger than the surface area of ​​the second light-emitting area LG inside each first unit area UA1 (for example, in a plan view). The third light-emitting area LB inside each second unit area UA2 may have a surface area larger than the surface area of ​​the third light-emitting area LB inside each first unit area UA1 (for example, in a plan view). When the light-emitting areas differ between the corresponding light-emitting elements and the same driving voltage is applied to the corresponding light-emitting elements, the brightness ratio of the corresponding light-emitting elements depends on the light-emitting area ratio.

[0126] Since each of the second unit areas UA2 (e.g., in a plan view) has a surface area larger than that of each of the first unit areas UA1, the number of light-emitting areas per unit surface area in the first display area DA1 is greater than the number of light-emitting areas per unit surface area in the first edge display area DA2_E1. The unit surface area may (e.g., in a plan view) have a surface area larger than that of each of the second unit areas UA2. For example, the unit surface area may be set to (e.g., in a plan view) have a surface area that is twice or three times the surface area of ​​each of the second unit areas UA2.

[0127] Since the number of light-emitting areas per unit surface area in the first edge display area DA2_E1 is smaller than the number of light-emitting areas per unit surface area in the first display area DA1, when the same emission surface area and the same driving conditions are satisfied, the first edge display area DA2_E1 can have a brightness per unit surface area that is lower than the brightness per unit surface area of ​​the first display area DA1. The same emission surface area means that the surface area of ​​the corresponding light-emitting area in each of the first unit area UA1 and the second unit area UA2 is substantially the same. The same driving conditions mean that substantially the same driving voltage is applied to the light-emitting elements.

[0128] According to the present exemplary embodiment, in order to compensate for the brightness difference between the first edge display area DA2_E1 and the first display area DA1, each of the first light-emitting area LR, the second light-emitting area LG, and the third light-emitting area LB of the first edge display area DA2_E1 may have a surface area larger than the surface area of ​​the corresponding light-emitting area among the first light-emitting area LR, the second light-emitting area LG, and the third light-emitting area LB of the first display area DA1 (for example, in a plan view). When the light-emitting areas differ between the corresponding light-emitting elements and substantially the same driving voltage is applied to the corresponding light-emitting elements, the brightness ratio of the corresponding light-emitting elements depends on the light-emitting area ratio.

[0129] In the present exemplary embodiment, the first light emitting region LR of the first edge display area DA2_E1 (e.g., in a plan view) has a surface area approximately four times larger than that of the first light emitting region LR of the first display area DA1, and the second light emitting region LG of the first edge display area DA2_E1 (e.g., in a plan view) has a surface area approximately four times larger than that of the second light emitting region LG of the first display area DA1, and the third light emitting region LB of the first edge display area DA2_E1 (e.g., in a plan view) has a surface area approximately four times larger than that of the third light emitting region LB of the first display area DA1. As a result, the first display area DA1 and the first edge display area DA2_E1 may have substantially the same surface area in the surface area of ​​the corresponding light emitting regions per unit surface area.

[0130] The lifespan of the light-emitting element can be determined based on the initial brightness and the acceleration factor. The acceleration factor is affected by temperature, device characteristics, and material properties. The surface area of ​​the first edge display area DA2_E1 can be increased so that the surface area of ​​the total light-emitting area per unit surface area increases to correspond to the surface area of ​​the light-emitting area per unit surface area of ​​the first display area DA1. In addition, as the emission brightness per unit surface area in the first edge display area DA2_E1 increases, the initial brightness of the light-emitting area of ​​the first edge display area DA2_E1 can be reduced. Therefore, the expected lifespan of the light-emitting element of the first edge display area DA2_E1 can be substantially the same as the expected lifespan of the light-emitting element of the first display area DA1.

[0131] Reference Figure 6 At least a portion of the first corner display area DA2_C1 has a curved shape. A portion of the outer periphery of the first corner display area DA2_C1 may have the shape of a first curved pattern CP1. The first curved pattern CP1 may have a predetermined curvature. The shape and curvature of the first curved pattern CP1 may be variously changed.

[0132] The first light-emitting region LR, the second light-emitting region LG, and the third light-emitting region LB of the first corner display area DA2_C1 may be arranged in a stepped shape along the curve of the first curved pattern CP1. For example, in an area of ​​the first corner display area DA2_C1 adjacent to the first curved pattern CP1, the first light-emitting region LR, the second light-emitting region LG, and the third light-emitting region LB may be arranged in a stepped shape, and in the remaining area of ​​the first corner display area DA2_C1, the first light-emitting region LR, the second light-emitting region LG, and the third light-emitting region LB may be arranged in a shape substantially the same as that of the first light-emitting region LR, the second light-emitting region LG, and the third light-emitting region LB inside the first display area DA1.

[0133] The first corner display area DA2_C1 may include a first sub-corner area SCA1 and a second sub-corner area SCA2. The first sub-corner area SCA1 is adjacent to the first display area DA1, and the second sub-corner area SCA2 is adjacent to the first sub-corner area SCA1. The second sub-corner area SCA2 overlaps the first drive driver GDC1 in a plan view.

[0134] Reference Figure 6 , the entire first display area DA1 may have a uniform width in the first direction DR1 (ie, W_U1=W_L1). The width of the first corner display area DA2_C1 in the first direction DR1 may increase with increasing width from the first edge display area DA2_E1 (see FIG. Figure 4 ) gradually narrows as it moves along the second direction DR2. For example, the width of the first sub-corner area SCA1 in the first direction DR1 may gradually narrow as it moves from the first edge display area DA2_E1 along the second direction DR2 (i.e., W_U2>W_L2). Similarly, the width of the second sub-corner area SCA2 in the first direction DR1 may gradually narrow as it moves from the first edge display area DA2_E1 along the second direction DR2 (i.e., W_U3>W_L3).

[0135] The width of each of the first sub-corner area SCA1 and the second sub-corner area SCA2 may be changed according to the curvature of the first curved pattern CP1. For example, the width of the second sub-corner area SCA2 in the first direction DR1 may gradually narrow as it moves from the first edge display area DA2_E1 along the second direction DR2, but the width of the first sub-corner area SCA1 may be uniformly maintained. Figure 5A and Figure 5BSimilar to the first edge display area DA2_E1 shown in , each of the first light-emitting area LR, the second light-emitting area LG and the third light-emitting area LB of the first corner display area DA2_C1 can (for example, in a plan view) have a surface area that is larger than the surface area of ​​the corresponding light-emitting area in the first light-emitting area LR, the second light-emitting area LG and the third light-emitting area LB of the first display area DA1.

[0136] Figure 9A 、 Figure 9B and Figure 9C yes Figure 4 Area A2 shows Figure 2 FIG. 1 is an enlarged plan view of another exemplary embodiment of a display panel.

[0137] like Figure 9A As shown in FIG, at least a portion of the first corner display area DA2_C1 has a curved shape. A portion of the outer periphery of the first corner display area DA2_C1 may have a shape of a second curved pattern CP2. The second curved pattern CP2 may have a predetermined curvature.

[0138] The first corner display area DA2_C1 may include a first sub-corner area SCA1 and a second sub-corner area SCA2. The first sub-corner area SCA1 is adjacent to the first display area DA1, and the second sub-corner area SCA2 is adjacent to the first sub-corner area SCA1. The second sub-corner area SCA2 overlaps the first drive driver GDC1 in a plan view.

[0139] The width of the first display area DA1 in the first direction DR1 may vary with the width from the first edge display area DA2_E1 (see FIG. Figure 4 ) gradually narrows as it moves along the second direction DR2 (i.e., W_U1>W_L1). The width of the first corner display area DA2_C1 in the first direction DR1 can be substantially constant. For example, the width of the first sub-corner area SCA1 in the first direction DR1 is substantially constant throughout the first sub-corner area SCA1 (i.e., W_U2=W_L2). Similarly, the width of the second sub-corner area SCA2 in the first direction DR1 is substantially constant throughout the second sub-corner area SCA2 (i.e., W_U3=W_L3).

[0140] Although the width of each of the first sub-corner area SCA1 and the second sub-corner area SCA2 in the first direction DR1 is substantially constant, since the width of the portion of the first display area DA1 overlapping the side area of ​​the window WM in the first direction DR1 gradually narrows as moving from the area corresponding to the first edge display area DA2_E1 along the second direction DR2, the first corner display area DA2_C1 can be set along the second curved pattern CP2.

[0141] The plurality of second unit areas UA2 of the first corner display area DA2_C1 may be arranged in a stepped shape along the curve of the second curved pattern CP2. For example, in an area of ​​the first corner display area DA2_C1 adjacent to the second curved pattern CP2, the plurality of second unit areas UA2 may be arranged in a stepped shape, and in the remaining area of ​​the first corner display area DA2_C1, the plurality of second unit areas UA2 may be arranged in a matrix form.

[0142] exist Figure 6 In the exemplary embodiment shown in , the first light emitting area LR, the second light emitting area LG, and the third light emitting area LB of the first corner display area DA2_C1 may be arranged in a stepped shape along the curve of the first curved pattern CP1. Therefore, the first light emitting area LR, the second light emitting area LG, and the third light emitting area LB may be arranged in a shape similar to that of the first curved pattern CP1.

[0143] exist Figure 9A In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG, the second unit area UA2 of the first corner display area DA2_C1 can be arranged in a stepped shape along the curve of the second curved pattern CP2. One second unit area UA2 can include one first light emitting area LR, two second light emitting areas LG, and one third light emitting area LB, and is the minimum unit constituting an image. Figure 9A In an exemplary embodiment, each of the second unit areas UA2, which is a minimum unit constituting an image, may be disposed in a stepped shape along a curve of the second curved pattern CP2 to minimize distortion of the image.

[0144] The first unit area UA1 may be provided in an area of ​​the first display area DA1 adjacent to the first sub-corner area SCA1. One first unit area UA1 may include one first light emitting area LR, two second light emitting areas LG, and one third light emitting area LB, and is the minimum unit constituting an image. Figure 9A According to an exemplary embodiment, the distortion of an image may be minimized by disposing the first unit area UA1 , which is a minimum unit constituting an image, in a stepped shape to be adjacent to the first sub corner area SCA1 .

[0145] exist Figure 9AIn the example, area AA1-1 may be a portion where the first display area DA1 and the first corner display area DA2_C1 are adjacent to each other along the second direction DR2. Because the surface area of ​​the third light-emitting area LB significantly increases at the boundary between the first display area DA1 and the first corner display area DA2_C1, the ratio of blue light generated from the third light-emitting area LB in area AA1-1 increases when compared to the first display area DA1. Similarly, the ratio of red light generated from the first light-emitting area LR in area AA2-1 increases when compared to the first display area DA1. Due to the increased ratio of specific light, images may be displayed with distortion.

[0146] Reference Figure 9B , the surface area of ​​each of the first light-emitting region LR and the third light-emitting region LB at a portion adjacent to the first display area DA1 in the second direction DR2 in the first corner display area DA2_C1 may be reduced to be substantially the same as the surface area of ​​each of the first light-emitting region LR and the third light-emitting region LB in the first display area DA1. In addition, the number of each of the first light-emitting region LR and the third light-emitting region LB at a portion adjacent to the first display area DA1 in the second direction DR2 in the first corner display area DA2_C1 may be substantially the same as the number of each of the first light-emitting region LR and the third light-emitting region LB in the first display area DA1. Therefore, the ratio of each of the red light generated from the first light-emitting region LR and the blue light generated from the third light-emitting region LB in the area AA1-2 may be similar to the ratio of the red light generated from the first light-emitting region LR and the blue light generated from the third light-emitting region LB within the first unit area UA1 of the first display area DA1.

[0147] Similarly, the ratio of each of the red light generated from the first light emitting area LR and the blue light generated from the third light emitting area LB in the area AA2-2 may be similar to the ratio of the red light generated from the first light emitting area LR and the blue light generated from the third light emitting area LB inside the first unit area UA1 of the first display area DA1. As a result, the distortion of the image can be minimized at the portion where the first display area DA1 and the first corner display area DA2_C1 are adjacent to each other along the second direction DR2.

[0148] Reference Figure 9C , the surface area of ​​each of the first light emitting region LR and the third light emitting region LB at a portion adjacent to the first display region DA1 in the second direction DR2 in the first corner display region DA2_C1 may be reduced to be substantially the same as the surface area of ​​each of the first light emitting region LR and the third light emitting region LB in the first display region DA1. Figure 9AThe brightness of the blue light generated from the third light emitting area LB in the area AA1-3 may be reduced when compared with the brightness in the area AA1-1 shown in FIG. Figure 9A As a result, image distortion can be minimized at portions where the first display area DA1 and the first corner display area DA2_C1 are adjacent to each other along the second direction DR2.

[0149] Figure 10 yes Figure 4 Area A2 shows Figure 2 FIG. 1 is an enlarged plan view of another exemplary embodiment of a display panel.

[0150] like Figure 10 As shown in FIG, a plurality of first unit areas UA1 may be defined in the first display area DA1, and a plurality of second unit areas UA2 may be defined in the first corner display area DA2_C1. The plurality of first unit areas UA1 and the plurality of second unit areas UA2 may be arranged in a matrix along the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0151] Each of the first unit area UA1 and the second unit area UA2 may include one first light emitting region LR, one second light emitting region LG, and one third light emitting region LB.

[0152] At least a portion of the first corner display area DA2_C1 has a curved shape. A portion of the outer circumference of the first corner display area DA2_C1 may have a shape of a third curved pattern CP3. The third curved pattern CP3 may have a predetermined curvature.

[0153] The first corner display area DA2_C1 may include a first sub-corner area SCA1 and a second sub-corner area SCA2. The first sub-corner area SCA1 is adjacent to the first display area DA1, and the second sub-corner area SCA2 is adjacent to the first sub-corner area SCA1. The second sub-corner area SCA2 overlaps the first drive driver GDC1 in a plan view.

[0154] The width of the first display area DA1 in the first direction DR1 may vary with the width from the first edge display area DA2_E1 (see FIG. Figure 4) gradually narrows as it moves along the second direction DR2 (i.e., W_U1>W_L1). The width of the first corner display area DA2_C1 in the first direction DR1 can be substantially constant. For example, the width of the first sub-corner area SCA1 in the first direction DR1 is substantially constant throughout the first sub-corner area SCA1 (i.e., W_U2=W_L2). Similarly, the width of the second sub-corner area SCA2 in the first direction DR1 is substantially constant throughout the second sub-corner area SCA2 (i.e., W_U3=W_L3).

[0155] Although the width of each of the first sub-corner area SCA1 and the second sub-corner area SCA2 in the first direction DR1 is substantially constant, since the width of the first display area DA1 in the first direction DR1 gradually narrows as moving from the area corresponding to the first edge display area DA2_E1 along the second direction DR2, the first corner display area DA2_C1 can be set along the third curved pattern CP3.

[0156] The plurality of second unit areas UA2 of the first corner display area DA2_C1 may be arranged in a stepped shape along the curve of the third bending pattern CP3. For example, in an area of ​​the first corner display area DA2_C1 adjacent to the third bending pattern CP3, the plurality of second unit areas UA2 may be arranged in a stepped shape, and in the remaining area of ​​the first corner display area DA2_C1, the plurality of second unit areas UA2 may be arranged in a matrix form.

[0157] exist Figure 10 In the exemplary embodiment shown in , one second unit area UA2 may include one first light emitting area LR, one second light emitting area LG, and one third light emitting area LB, and is the minimum unit constituting an image. Each of the second unit areas UA2, which are the minimum units constituting an image, may be arranged in a stepped shape along the curve of the third curved pattern CP3 to minimize distortion of the image.

[0158] The first unit area UA1 can be arranged in an area of ​​the first display area DA1 adjacent to the first sub-corner area SCA1. One first unit area UA1 can include one first light-emitting area LR, one second light-emitting area LG, and one third light-emitting area LB, and is the smallest unit constituting an image. Distortion of the image can be minimized by arranging the first unit area UA1, which is the smallest unit constituting an image, in a stepped shape adjacent to the first sub-corner area SCA1.

[0159] Figure 11 yes Figure 4 Area A2 shows Figure 2 FIG. 1 is an enlarged plan view of another exemplary embodiment of a display panel.

[0160] like Figure 11 As shown in FIG, a plurality of first unit areas UA1 may be defined in the first display area DA1, and a plurality of second unit areas UA2 may be defined in the first corner display area DA2_C1. The plurality of first unit areas UA1 and the plurality of second unit areas UA2 may be arranged in a matrix along the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0161] Each of the first unit area UA1 and the second unit area UA2 may include a first light emitting area LR, a second light emitting area LG, and a third light emitting area LB. The first light emitting area LR and the second light emitting area LG may have substantially the same surface area (e.g., in a plan view), and the third light emitting area LB may be larger than the first light emitting area LR.

[0162] At least a portion of the first corner display area DA2_C1 has a curved shape. A portion of the outer circumference of the first corner display area DA2_C1 may have a shape of a fourth curved pattern CP4. The fourth curved pattern CP4 may have a predetermined curvature.

[0163] The first corner display area DA2_C1 may include a first sub-corner area SCA1 and a second sub-corner area SCA2. The first sub-corner area SCA1 is adjacent to the first display area DA1, and the second sub-corner area SCA2 is adjacent to the first sub-corner area SCA1. The second sub-corner area SCA2 overlaps the first drive driver GDC1 in a plan view.

[0164] The width of the first display area DA1 in the first direction DR1 may vary with the width from the first edge display area DA2_E1 (see FIG. Figure 4 ) gradually narrows as it moves along the second direction DR2 (i.e., W_U1>W_L1). The width of the first corner display area DA2_C1 in the first direction DR1 can be substantially constant. For example, the width of the first sub-corner area SCA1 in the first direction DR1 is substantially constant throughout the first sub-corner area SCA1 (i.e., W_U2=W_L2). Similarly, the width of the second sub-corner area SCA2 in the first direction DR1 is substantially constant throughout the second sub-corner area SCA2 (i.e., W_U3=W_L3).

[0165] Although the width of each of the first sub-corner area SCA1 and the second sub-corner area SCA2 in the first direction DR1 is substantially constant, since the width of the first display area DA1 in the first direction DR1 gradually narrows as moving from the area corresponding to the first edge display area DA2_E1 along the second direction DR2, the first corner display area DA2_C1 can be set along the fourth curved pattern CP4.

[0166] The plurality of second unit areas UA2 of the first corner display area DA2_C1 may be arranged in a stepped shape along the curve of the fourth bending pattern CP4. For example, in an area of ​​the first corner display area DA2_C1 adjacent to the fourth bending pattern CP4, the plurality of second unit areas UA2 may be arranged in a stepped shape, and in the remaining area of ​​the first corner display area DA2_C1, the plurality of second unit areas UA2 may be arranged in a matrix form.

[0167] exist Figure 11 In the exemplary embodiment shown in , one second unit area UA2 may include one first light emitting area LR, one second light emitting area LG, and one third light emitting area LB, and is the minimum unit constituting an image. Each of the second unit areas UA2, which is the minimum unit constituting an image, may be arranged in a stepped shape along the curve of the fourth curved pattern CP4 to minimize distortion of the image.

[0168] The first unit area UA1 can be arranged in an area of ​​the first display area DA1 adjacent to the first sub-corner area SCA1. One first unit area UA1 can include one first light-emitting area LR, one second light-emitting area LG, and one third light-emitting area LB, and is the smallest unit constituting an image. Distortion of the image can be minimized by arranging the first unit area UA1, which is the smallest unit constituting an image, in a stepped shape adjacent to the first sub-corner area SCA1.

[0169] The display device having the above configuration can display an image in a region of the display panel having a curved portion. In addition, pixels can be arranged along the curved surface of the display region to prevent image distortion.

[0170] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the inventive concept. Therefore, the present disclosure is intended to cover modifications and variations of the present invention as long as they fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. Therefore, to the maximum extent allowed by law, the scope of the inventive concept is to be determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of the claims and their equivalents, and shall not be restricted or limited by the foregoing detailed description.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: a window comprising a front region and a side region curved from the front region, the side region having a first curvature; as well as The display panel includes a first display area facing the front area of ​​the window and a second display area facing the side area of ​​the window, wherein the first display area includes a first light-emitting area, a second light-emitting area, and a third light-emitting area, and the second display area includes the first light-emitting area, the second light-emitting area, and the third light-emitting area. The second display area includes an edge display area and a corner display area provided at an end of the edge display area, and The first light emitting area, the second light emitting area, and the third light emitting area of ​​the corner display area are arranged in a stepped shape along the curved edge of the corner display area. The second display area includes a first sub-area adjacent to the first display area and a second sub-area adjacent to the first sub-area. Wherein, the display panel further includes: A first light emitting element and a first driving circuit are configured to control the first light emitting area, the second light emitting area, and the third light emitting area of ​​the first display area; and The second light emitting element and the second driving circuit are configured to control the first light emitting area, the second light emitting area and the third light emitting area of ​​the second display area, Wherein, the second driving circuit is arranged in the first sub-region, and Wherein, each of the second drive circuits has a surface area larger than a surface area of ​​each of the first drive circuits.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first light emitting region of the second display region has a surface area larger than a surface area of ​​the first light emitting region of the first display region, The second light emitting region of the second display region has a surface area larger than a surface area of ​​the second light emitting region of the first display region, and The third light emitting region of the second display region has a surface area larger than that of the third light emitting region of the first display region.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The display panel further includes a driving driver disposed in the second display area, and A portion of the second sub-region overlaps the driving actuator in a plan view.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein The first light emitting area, the second light emitting area, and the third light emitting area of ​​the second sub-area within the second display area overlap with the driving driver in the plan view.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The width of the corner display area within the second display area in the first direction gradually narrows as moving from the edge display area along a second direction intersecting the first direction. The display device according to claim 1 , wherein: The width of the corner display area within the second display area in the first direction is constant as it moves along a second direction intersecting the first direction, and A width of a portion of the first display area overlapping the side area of ​​the window in the first direction gradually narrows as moving along the second direction.

7. A display device, comprising: a window comprising a front region and a side region curved from the front region, the side region having a first curvature; as well as a display panel located on the window, the display panel including a first display area facing the front area of ​​the window and a second display area facing the side area of ​​the window, the second display area including an edge display area and a corner display area provided at an end of the edge display area, wherein: The first display area includes a plurality of first unit areas, each of the plurality of first unit areas includes a first light emitting area, a second light emitting area, and a third light emitting area, and The second display area includes a plurality of second unit areas, each of the plurality of second unit areas includes the first light emitting area, the second light emitting area, and the third light emitting area, and wherein: Each of the plurality of second unit regions has a surface area larger than a surface area of ​​each of the plurality of first unit regions, and The plurality of second unit regions are arranged in a stepped shape along the curved edge of the corner display region, The second display area includes a first sub-area adjacent to the first display area and a second sub-area adjacent to the first sub-area. Wherein, the display panel further includes: A first light emitting element and a first driving circuit are configured to control the first light emitting area, the second light emitting area, and the third light emitting area of ​​the first display area; and The second light emitting element and the second driving circuit are configured to control the first light emitting area, the second light emitting area and the third light emitting area of ​​the second display area, Wherein, the second driving circuit is arranged in the first sub-region, and Wherein, each of the second drive circuits has a surface area larger than a surface area of ​​each of the first drive circuits.

8. The display device according to claim 7, wherein: The display panel further includes a driving driver disposed in the second display area, and A portion of the second sub-region overlaps the driving actuator in a plan view.

9. The display device according to claim 7, wherein: The width of the corner display area within the second display area in the first direction gradually narrows as moving from the edge display area along a second direction intersecting the first direction.

10. The display device according to claim 7, wherein: The width of the corner display area within the second display area in the first direction is constant as it moves along a second direction intersecting the first direction, and A width of a portion of the first display area overlapping the side area of ​​the window in the first direction gradually narrows as moving along the second direction.

11. The display device according to claim 7, wherein: Each of the plurality of first unit regions and the plurality of second unit regions further includes a fourth light emitting region.

12. The display device according to claim 11, wherein Two light emitting regions among the first light emitting region, the second light emitting region, the third light emitting region, and the fourth light emitting region of each of the plurality of first unit regions and the plurality of second unit regions generate light having the same color.

13. A display panel, comprising: A first display area including a plurality of first unit areas, each of the plurality of first unit areas including a first light emitting area, a second light emitting area, and a third light emitting area; as well as a second display area, adjacent to the first display area, the second display area including an edge display area and a corner display area provided at an end of the edge display area, wherein: The second display area includes a plurality of second unit areas, each of the plurality of second unit areas includes the first light emitting area, the second light emitting area, and the third light emitting area. Each of the plurality of second unit regions has a surface area larger than a surface area of ​​each of the plurality of first unit regions, and The plurality of second unit regions are arranged in a stepped shape along the curved edge of the corner display region, The second display area includes a first sub-area adjacent to the first display area and a second sub-area adjacent to the first sub-area. Wherein, the display panel further includes: A first light emitting element and a first driving circuit are configured to control the first light emitting area, the second light emitting area, and the third light emitting area of ​​the first display area; and The second light emitting element and the second driving circuit are configured to control the first light emitting area, the second light emitting area and the third light emitting area of ​​the second display area, Wherein, the second driving circuit is arranged in the first sub-region, and Wherein, each of the second drive circuits has a surface area larger than a surface area of ​​each of the first drive circuits.

14. The display panel according to claim 13, wherein: The width of the corner display area within the second display area in the first direction is constant as it moves along a second direction intersecting the first direction, and A width of a portion of the first display area adjacent to the second display area in the first direction gradually narrows as moving along the second direction.

Images