Display device

Abstract

A display device includes a display panel having a front portion, a first curved portion, a second curved portion, and a corner portion, the display panel including a plurality of first pixels disposed in the front portion and a plurality of second pixels disposed in the corner portion. The display panel further includes a substrate, a first dam surrounding the plurality of first pixels, and a second dam surrounding the plurality of second pixels. The substrate includes a plurality of cutout patterns disposed in the corner portion, the plurality of second pixels and the second dam are disposed in each of the plurality of cutout patterns, and based on one surface of the substrate, a height of an upper surface of the first dam is higher than a height of an upper surface of the second dam.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0123541, filed on September 24, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes, as if fully set forth herein. Technical Field

[0003] The embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a display device, and more specifically, to a display device having a curved display panel having a dam pattern. Background Technology

[0004] With the development of the information society, the demand for display devices for displaying images has increased in various forms. For example, display devices are now used in various electronic devices, such as smartphones, digital cameras, laptops, navigation systems, and smart TVs.

[0005] Examples of display devices include light-receiving display devices such as liquid crystal display devices and field emission display devices, as well as light-emitting display devices such as organic light-emitting display devices including organic light-emitting elements, inorganic light-emitting display devices including inorganic light-emitting elements such as inorganic semiconductors, and micro light-emitting display devices including micro light-emitting elements.

[0006] Because display devices are used in a variety of electronic devices, they require a variety of designs. For example, a display device can display images on the front, on curved sections at the four edges, and at the corners between the curved sections.

[0007] The information disclosed in this background section is only for understanding the background of the inventive concept, and therefore may contain information that does not constitute prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The applicant has discovered that display devices with display panels may have defects caused by damage to the dam structure of the display panel due to mask imprinting.

[0009] The display device constructed according to the principles of the present invention can prevent defects caused by damage to the dam structure of the display device. According to the display device of the embodiment, defects caused by mask imprinting on the dam structure can be suppressed or prevented.

[0010] Additional features of the inventive concept will be set forth in the description which follows, and will be apparent in part from the description, or may be learned by practice of the inventive concept.

[0011] According to an aspect of the present invention, a display device includes: a display panel having a front portion, a first curved portion extending from a first side of the front portion, a second curved portion extending from a second side of the front portion, and a corner portion disposed between the first curved portion and the second curved portion, the display panel including a plurality of first pixels disposed in the front portion and a plurality of second pixels disposed in the corner portion, wherein the display panel further includes: a substrate; a first dam disposed on the substrate and surrounding the plurality of first pixels; and a second dam disposed on the substrate and surrounding the plurality of second pixels, wherein the substrate includes a plurality of cut patterns disposed in the corner portion, at least some of the plurality of cut patterns being separated from each other, the plurality of second pixels and the second dam being disposed in each of the plurality of cut patterns, and based on a surface of the substrate, the height of the upper surface of the first dam is higher than the height of the upper surface of the second dam.

[0012] The first dam may include multiple first unit patterns and multiple second unit patterns, wherein: the multiple first unit patterns may be arranged repeatedly and spaced apart from each other, and the multiple second unit patterns may be arranged repeatedly and spaced apart from each other.

[0013] Multiple first-unit patterns and multiple second-unit patterns can be arranged in a basically parallel manner.

[0014] Each of the multiple first unit patterns and multiple second unit patterns can have a rectangular shape or a hexagonal shape.

[0015] The display device may further include a connecting dam disposed on a substrate and connected to second dams disposed in a plurality of cut patterns.

[0016] The display device may further include an organic encapsulation layer, the organic encapsulation layer including: a first organic layer disposed on and covering a plurality of first pixels; and a second organic layer disposed on and covering a plurality of second pixels, wherein the first organic layer may overlap with the first dam and the second dam.

[0017] The first organic layer can cover the entire area of ​​the first dam and fill the area between the first dam and the second dam.

[0018] The thickness of the first organic layer can be greater than the thickness of the second organic layer.

[0019] The thickness of the first organic layer can be in the range of about 7 μm to about 9 μm, and the thickness of the second organic layer can be in the range of about 3 μm to about 5 μm.

[0020] Each of the first and second dams can have an undercut shape.

[0021] The first curved portion may have a first curvature, the second curved portion may have a second curvature, and the corner portion may include a hyperbola region curved with the first curvature and the second curvature.

[0022] The first curvature can be different from the second curvature.

[0023] According to another aspect of the present invention, a display device includes: a display panel having a front portion, a first curved portion extending from a first side of the front portion, a second curved portion extending from a second side of the front portion, and a corner portion disposed between the first curved portion and the second curved portion, the display panel including a plurality of first pixels disposed in the front portion and a plurality of second pixels disposed in the corner portion, wherein the display panel further includes: a substrate; a first dam disposed on the substrate and surrounding the plurality of first pixels; a second dam disposed on the substrate and surrounding the plurality of second pixels; and an organic encapsulation layer including a first organic layer disposed on and covering the plurality of first pixels and a second organic layer disposed on and covering the plurality of second pixels, wherein the substrate includes a plurality of cut patterns disposed in the corner portion, and at least some of the plurality of cut patterns are separated from each other, the plurality of second pixels and the second dam are disposed in each of the plurality of cut patterns, and the first organic layer overlaps with the first dam and the second dam.

[0024] The first organic layer can cover the entire area of ​​the first dam and fill the area between the first dam and the second dam.

[0025] The thickness of the first organic layer can be in the range of about 7 μm to about 9 μm, and the thickness of the second organic layer can be in the range of about 3 μm to about 5 μm.

[0026] Based on one surface of the substrate, the height of the upper surface of the first dam can be higher than the height of the upper surface of the second dam.

[0027] The first dam may include multiple first unit patterns and multiple second unit patterns, wherein: the multiple first unit patterns may be arranged repeatedly, and the multiple second unit patterns may be arranged repeatedly.

[0028] The display device may further include a connecting dam disposed on a substrate and connected to second dams disposed in a plurality of cut patterns.

[0029] According to another aspect of the present invention, a display device includes: a substrate having a base and a plurality of cut patterns protruding from the base; a plurality of first pixels disposed on the base; a plurality of second pixels disposed in each of the plurality of cut patterns; a first dam disposed on the base and surrounding the plurality of first pixels; and a second dam disposed in each of the plurality of cut patterns and surrounding the plurality of second pixels, wherein, based on a surface of the substrate, the height of the upper surface of the first dam is higher than the height of the upper surface of the second dam.

[0030] The display device may further include an organic encapsulation layer, the organic encapsulation layer including: a first organic layer disposed on and covering a plurality of first pixels; and a second organic layer disposed on and covering a plurality of second pixels, wherein the first organic layer may overlap with the first dam and the second dam.

[0031] It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and illustrative, and are intended to provide further explanation of the claimed invention. Attached Figure Description

[0032] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the inventive concept.

[0033] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a display device constructed according to the principles of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A plan view of the display device.

[0035] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of the display device.

[0036] Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view taken from line IV-IV'.

[0037] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A layout diagram of the first display area of ​​the display device.

[0038] Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 The cross-sectional view taken from line VI-VI'.

[0039] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 A magnified view of region A.

[0040] Figure 8 yes Figure 7A magnified view of region B.

[0041] Figure 9 It is along Figure 8 The cross-sectional view taken by the line IX-IX′.

[0042] Figure 10 It is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view taken by line X-X'.

[0043] Figure 11 It is along Figure 8 The cross-sectional view taken from line XI-XI'.

[0044] Figure 12 yes Figure 7 A magnified view of region C.

[0045] Figure 13 , Figure 14 and Figure 15 It shows the manufacturing process. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a method for displaying a device.

[0046] Figure 16 yes Figure 1 An enlarged view of a portion of a plan view of another embodiment of the display device.

[0047] Figure 17 It is along Figure 16 A cross-sectional view taken from line XVII-XVII'.

[0048] Figure 18 yes Figure 1 An enlarged view of a portion of a plan view of another embodiment of the display device.

[0049] Figure 19 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the display device. Detailed Implementation

[0050] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth for purposes of explanation in order to provide a thorough understanding of various embodiments or implementations of the invention. As used herein, “embodiment” and “implementation” are interchangeable terms for non-limiting examples of apparatuses or methods employing one or more of the inventive concept disclosed herein. However, it will be apparent, however, that various embodiments may be practiced without these specific details or with one or more equivalent arrangements. In other instances, well-known structures and apparatuses are illustrated in block diagram form to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the various embodiments. Furthermore, the various embodiments may differ, but are not necessarily exclusive. For example, the specific shape, configuration, and characteristics of one embodiment may be used or implemented in another embodiment without departing from the inventive concept.

[0051] Unless otherwise specified, the illustrated embodiments should be understood as exemplary features providing different details of how the inventive concept can be implemented in practice. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, features, components, modules, layers, films, panels, regions and / or aspects (hereinafter collectively referred to as “elements”) of various embodiments may be combined, separated, interchanged and / or rearranged in other ways without departing from the inventive concept.

[0052] The use of crosshairs and / or shading in the accompanying drawings is generally provided to clearly define the boundaries between adjacent elements. Therefore, unless specified otherwise, the presence or absence of crosshairs or shading does not convey or indicate any preference or requirement for a particular material, material properties, size, scale, commonalities between elements, and / or any other characteristics, properties, or characteristics of the elements. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the dimensions and relative dimensions of elements may be exaggerated for clarity and / or descriptive purposes. When embodiments can be implemented in different ways, specific processes may be performed in a different order than those described. For example, two consecutively described processes may be performed substantially simultaneously or in the reverse order of their description. Moreover, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements.

[0053] When a component or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "coupled to" another component or layer, the component or layer may be directly on, directly connected to, or coupled to the other component or layer, or an intermediary component or layer may be present. However, when a component or layer is referred to as being "directly" on, directly connected to, or directly coupled to another component or layer, an intermediary component or layer is not present. Therefore, the term "connection" can refer to a physical connection, electrical connection, and / or fluid connection with or without an intermediary component. Furthermore, the DR1, DR2, and DR3 axes are not limited to the three axes of a Cartesian coordinate system (such as the x, y, and z axes) but can be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the DR1, DR2, and DR3 axes can be perpendicular to each other, or can 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" can be interpreted as only X, only Y, only Z, or any combination of two or more of X, Y, and Z, such as, for example, XYZ, XYY, YZ, and ZZ. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0054] 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. Therefore, the first element discussed below may be referred to as the second element without departing from the teachings of this disclosure.

[0055] For descriptive purposes, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “below,” “down,” “above,” “above,” “above,” “above,” and “side” (e.g., as in “sidewall”) may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element and another(s) as shown in the figures. In addition to the orientations depicted in the figures, the spatial relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device in use, operation, and / or manufacture. For example, if the device in the figure is flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “below” can cover both above and below orientations. Furthermore, the device may be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and therefore, the spatial relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0056] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a” and “the (described)” as used herein are also intended to include the plural forms. Furthermore, when used herein, the terms “comprising,” “including,” and / or “having” indicate the presence of the stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. It should also be noted that, as used herein, the terms “generally,” “about,” and other similar terms are used as approximations rather than terms of degree, and are therefore used to include inherent deviations in measured, calculated, and / or provided values ​​recognized by those skilled in the art.

[0057] This document describes various embodiments with reference to cross-sectional and / or exploded views, which are schematic diagrams of idealized embodiments and / or intermediate structures. Therefore, variations in the shapes shown in the drawings should be expected due to, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Consequently, the embodiments disclosed herein should not necessarily be construed as limited to the shapes of the specific areas shown, but rather include shape deviations caused, for example, by manufacturing processes. In this way, the areas shown in the drawings may be schematic in nature, and the shapes of these areas may not reflect the actual shapes of areas of the device, and are therefore not necessarily intended to be limiting.

[0058] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure is a part. Terms such as those defined in common dictionaries shall be interpreted as having meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant field and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0059] In the following description, embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0060] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a display device constructed according to the principles of the present invention. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A plan view of the display device.

[0061] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 According to the embodiment, the display device 10 displays a display area DA (reference). Figure 3 Displays an image and may include a display area DA (reference). Figure 3 Various devices, such as smartphones, tablet PCs, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable multimedia players (PMPs), game consoles, watch-type electronic devices, head-mounted displays, monitors for personal computers, laptop computers, car navigation systems, car dashboards, digital cameras, camcorders, external billboards, signs, medical devices, examination devices, various household appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines, and the Internet of Things (IoT).

[0062] In this specification, in a plan view, the short side of the display device 10 may extend in a direction parallel to the first direction DR1, and the long side of the display device 10 may extend in a direction parallel to the second direction DR2. The first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 intersect each other so as to be perpendicular to each other. In the plan view, the first direction DR1 may be the horizontal direction of the display device 10, and in the plan view, the second direction DR2 may be the vertical direction of the display device 10. The third direction DR3 is a direction perpendicular to the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. For example, the third direction DR3 may be the thickness direction of the display device 10.

[0063] The display device 10 according to an embodiment may include a display panel 100. The display panel 100 may be a flexible display panel. For example, the display panel 100 refers to a display panel in which at least a portion is bendable, foldable, and / or rollable.

[0064] The display panel 100 may include a front portion FS, a first curved portion SS1, a second curved portion SS2, a third curved portion SS3, a fourth curved portion SS4, a first corner portion CS1, a second corner portion CS2, a third corner portion CS3, and a fourth corner portion CS4. The first curved portion SS1, the second curved portion SS2, the third curved portion SS3, the fourth curved portion SS4, the first corner portion CS1, the second corner portion CS2, the third corner portion CS3, and the fourth corner portion CS4 may be divided or defined by curved lines BL1, BL2, BL3, and BL4.

[0065] The front portion FS can be surrounded by a first curved line BL1, a second curved line BL2, a third curved line BL3, and a fourth curved line BL4. The front portion FS can have a rectangular shape, with a short side in the first direction DR1 and a long side in the second direction DR2. When the front portion FS has a rectangular shape, each corner where the long and short sides of the front portion FS intersect can have a rounded shape in the planar view, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The front portion FS can have another polygonal, circular, or elliptical planar shape. Although in Figure 1 and Figure 2 The diagram shows that the front portion FS is formed to be flat, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, at least a portion of the front portion FS may have a convex or concave shape on the third-direction DR3.

[0066] When the front part FS has a rectangular shape, the front part FS may include a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side. The first side and the third side refer to one side and the other side of the front part FS in the first direction DR1, and the second side and the fourth side refer to one side and the other side of the front part FS in the second direction DR2.

[0067] The first bend SS1, the second bend SS2, the third bend SS3, and the fourth bend SS4 can be provided on one side and the other side of the front part FS in the first direction DR1 and on one side and the other side of the front part FS in the second direction DR2. The first bend SS1, the second bend SS2, the third bend SS3, and the fourth bend SS4 can extend from the first side, the second side, the third side, and the fourth side of the front part FS, respectively, and bend along the bending lines BL1, BL2, BL3, and BL4. When the first bend SS1, the second bend SS2, the third bend SS3, and the fourth bend SS4 bend, they can have a first curvature, a second curvature, a third curvature, and a fourth curvature, respectively.

[0068] Each of the first corner portion CS1, the second corner portion CS2, the third corner portion CS3, and the fourth corner portion CS4 can be disposed between the first bend portion SS1, the second bend portion SS2, the third bend portion SS3, and the fourth bend portion SS4. Each of the first corner portion CS1, the second corner portion CS2, the third corner portion CS3, and the fourth corner portion CS4 can have hyperbola.

[0069] For example, a first corner portion CS1 may be disposed between a first curved portion SS1 and a second curved portion SS2. The first corner portion CS1 may contact the lower side of the first curved portion SS1 and the left side of the second curved portion SS2. The first corner portion CS1 may be a hyperbolic region curved with a first curvature of the first curved portion SS1 and a second curvature of the second curved portion SS2. The description of the first corner portion CS1 can be applied to the second corner portion CS2, the third corner portion CS3, and the fourth corner portion CS4.

[0070] Each of the first corner section CS1, the second corner section CS2, the third corner section CS3, and the fourth corner section CS4 can be provided with a cutout pattern CP (see reference). Figure 7 The details will be described later.

[0071] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of the display device.

[0072] refer to Figure 3 The display panel 100 may include a display area DA, a non-display area NDA, a bending unit BA, and a pad unit PA.

[0073] The display area DA can display an image. The display area DA may include pixels or light-emitting areas. The non-display area NDA may not display an image. The non-display area NDA may not include pixels or light-emitting areas. The non-display area NDA may be provided with signal lines for driving pixels or light-emitting areas, or it may be provided with a scan driver. The border area of ​​the display device 10 may be configured as a non-display area NDA.

[0074] The display area DA may include a first display area DA1, a second display area DA2, and a third display area DA3. Each of the first, second, and third display areas (e.g., DA1, DA2, and DA3) may include multiple pixels and may display an image.

[0075] Display areas DA (e.g., DA1, DA2, and DA3) can be disposed on the front FS, first curved portion SS1, second curved portion SS2, third curved portion SS3, fourth curved portion SS4, first corner portion CS1, second corner portion CS2, third corner portion CS3, and fourth corner portion CS4 of the display panel 100. Therefore, images can be displayed not only on the front FS, first curved portion SS1, second curved portion SS2, third curved portion SS3, and fourth curved portion SS4 of the display panel 100, but also on the first corner portion CS1, second corner portion CS2, third corner portion CS3, and fourth corner portion CS4 of the display panel 100.

[0076] A first display area DA1, which serves as the main display area of ​​the display panel 100, may be disposed on the front FS. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and the first display area DA1 may extend over at least a portion of the first curved portion SS1, at least a portion of the second curved portion SS2, at least a portion of the third curved portion SS3, and at least a portion of the fourth curved portion SS3, and may also be disposed on the front FS.

[0077] Each of the second display areas DA2 can be located outside any corner of the first display area DA1. Each of the second display areas DA2 can be located between the first display area DA1 and the third display area DA3. At least a portion of each of the second display areas DA2 can be located on any one of the corner portions CS1, CS2, CS3, and CS4. Furthermore, at least a portion of each of the second display areas DA2 can be located on any two of the first curved portion SS1, the second curved portion SS2, the third curved portion SS3, and the fourth curved portion SS4. The embodiment is not limited thereto, and at least a portion of the second display area DA2 can be located on the front portion FS.

[0078] Although described later, the second display area DA2 may be provided with signal lines and / or scan drivers for driving pixels or light-emitting areas. Furthermore, the second display area DA2 may include pixels or light-emitting areas disposed on the signal lines and / or scan drivers. In this case, the user may not be able to perceive the non-display area between the first display area DA1 and the third display area DA3. In other words, because the second display area DA2, including pixels or light-emitting areas, is disposed between the first display area DA1 and the third display area DA3, the user does not perceive the gap between the image displayed by the first display area DA1 and the image displayed by the third display area DA3, and therefore the display panel 100 can provide the user with an immersive screen.

[0079] Each of the third display areas DA3 may be disposed outside the second display area DA2. At least a portion of each of the third display areas DA3 may be disposed on any one of the corner portions CS1, CS2, CS3, and CS4. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and each of the third display areas DA3 may be disposed on at least two of the first curved portion SS1, the second curved portion SS2, the third curved portion SS3, and the fourth curved portion SS4.

[0080] Because the third display area DA3 is located at each corner of the first display area DA1, images can be displayed in the area between the bends SS1, SS2, SS3, and SS4. When the display device 10, including the third display area DA3, is viewed from the front, the user can perceive that the image is displayed over the entire area of ​​the display device 10. In other words, the user can perceive that there is essentially no border, and the display panel 100 can provide the user with a more immersive screen.

[0081] The non-display area NDA can extend across the first bend SS1, the second bend SS2, the third bend SS3, the fourth bend SS4, the first corner CS1, the second corner CS2, the third corner CS3, and the fourth corner CS4. The non-display area NDA can be located within the bends SS1, SS2, SS3, and SS4, and outside the first display area DA1 and the third display area DA3. For example, the non-display area NDA can be located at the left edge of the first bend SS1, the lower edge of the second bend SS2, the right edge of the third bend SS3, and the upper edge of the fourth bend SS4.

[0082] The non-display area NDA can be located in the corners CS1, CS2, CS3 and CS4, and outside the third display area DA3. For example, the non-display area NDA can be located at the edge of the corner where the lower and left sides of the first corner CS1 intersect, the edge of the corner where the lower and right sides of the second corner CS2 intersect, the edge of the corner where the upper and right sides of the third corner CS3 intersect, and the edge of the corner where the upper and left sides of the fourth corner CS4 intersect.

[0083] The bending unit BA can extend from the underside of the second bend SS2. The bending unit BA can be disposed between the second bend SS2 and the pad unit PA. The length of the bending unit BA in the first direction DR1 can be shorter than the width of the second bend SS2 in the first direction DR1. The bending unit BA can be bent along the fifth bending line BL5 below the second bend SS2.

[0084] The pad unit PA can extend from the underside of the bending unit BA. The length of the pad unit PA in the first direction DR1 can be longer than the length of the bending unit BA in the first direction DR1, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the length of the pad unit PA in the first direction DR1 can be substantially equal to the length of the bending unit BA in the first direction DR1. The pad unit PA can be bent along the sixth bending line BL6 below the bending unit BA. The pad unit PA can be disposed on the lower surface of the front FS.

[0085] The integrated driver circuit IDC and pad PAD can be disposed on the pad unit PA. The integrated driver circuit IDC can be formed as an integrated circuit (IC). The integrated driver circuit IDC can be attached to the pad unit PA by means of chip-on-glass (COG), chip-on-plastic (COP), or ultrasonic bonding. Alternatively, the integrated driver circuit IDC can be disposed on a circuit board, which is disposed on the pad PAD of the pad unit PA.

[0086] The integrated driver circuit (IDC) can be electrically connected to the pads (PAD) of the pad unit (PA). The IDC can receive digital video data and timing signals through the pads (PAD). The IDC can convert the digital video data into analog data voltage and output the analog data voltage to the data lines of display areas DA1, DA2, and DA3.

[0087] Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view taken from line IV-IV'. Figure 4 It shows along Figure 2 An example of a display device 10 with line IV-IV' cut off.

[0088] refer to Figure 4 In addition to the display panel 100, the display device 10 may further include a cover window CW and an anti-reflective member PF. The display panel 100 may include a substrate SUB, a display layer DISL, and a sensor electrode layer SENL. The anti-reflective member PF may be disposed on the display panel 100, and the cover window CW may be disposed on the anti-reflective member PF.

[0089] A substrate SUB can support components disposed on it. The substrate SUB can be a flexible substrate capable of bending, folding, or rolling. For example, the substrate SUB may include polyimide (PI). Alternatively, the substrate SUB may include a metallic material. Only a portion of the substrate SUB may be flexible, or the entire substrate SUB may be flexible.

[0090] For example, the substrate SUB can have multiple stacked structures. For example, the substrate SUB can include a first substrate and a second substrate stacked in sequence, and can include a sub-buffer layer disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate.

[0091] The display layer (DISL) can be disposed on the substrate (SUB). The DISL can provide not only light-emitting elements, but also thin-film transistors (TFTs) for driving the light-emitting elements, as well as scan lines, data lines, and power lines electrically connected to the TFTs. The DISL may include an encapsulation layer for encapsulating the light-emitting elements. Details will be described later.

[0092] A sensor electrode layer (SENL) can be disposed on a display layer (DISL). The SENL can include sensor electrodes. The SENL can sense touch from a person or object using its sensor electrodes. The SENL can be provided integrally with the display layer (DISL), but embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the SENL can be provided as a separate film or panel and can be disposed on the display layer (DISL).

[0093] An anti-reflective component PF can be disposed on the sensor electrode layer SENL. The anti-reflective component PF can be attached in the form of a polarizing film. The anti-reflective component PF can polarize passing light. The anti-reflective component PF can be used to reduce the reflection of external light. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and the anti-reflective component PF can be stacked inside the display panel 100 in the form of an anti-reflective layer. In this case, the anti-reflective component PF may include a color filter or the like that selectively transmits light of a specific wavelength.

[0094] A cover window (CW) can be installed on the antireflective component (PF). The cover window (CW) can be used to protect the underlying components from external influences. The cover window (CW) can be attached to the antireflective component (PF) via a transparent adhesive component such as an optically clear adhesive (OCA) film or an optically clear resin (OCR) film. The cover window (CW) can include inorganic materials such as glass, or organic materials such as plastics or polymers.

[0095] The bending unit BA can be bent along the fifth bending line BL5 and can be disposed on the lower surface of the second bending portion SS2. The pad unit PA can be bent along the sixth bending line BL6 and can be disposed on the lower surface of the front portion FS. The pad unit PA can be attached to the lower surface of the front portion FS by means of the adhesive member ADH. The adhesive member ADH can be a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0096] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A layout diagram of the first display area of ​​the display device. Figure 5This diagram shows multiple first pixels PX1 of the first display area DA1 and the sensor electrode layer SENL (reference). Figure 4 The driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE. Figure 5 A mutual capacitance type touch electrode is shown, comprising two sensor electrodes (e.g., a driving electrode TE and a sensing electrode RE). For ease of description, Figure 5 Only two sensing electrodes RE that are adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1 and two driving electrodes TE that are adjacent to each other in the second direction DR2 are shown.

[0097] refer to Figure 5 The driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE can be electrically separated from each other. Since the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE are formed on the same layer, they can be spaced apart from each other. A gap can be formed between the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE.

[0098] The sensing electrodes RE can be electrically connected to each other in the first direction DR1. The driving electrodes TE can be electrically connected to each other in the second direction DR2. In order to electrically separate the sensing electrodes RE and the driving electrodes TE at their intersection, the driving electrodes TE that are adjacent to each other in the second direction DR2 can be electrically connected to each other through the connecting electrode BE1.

[0099] The connecting electrode BE1 can be formed on a different layer than the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE, and can be connected through the first touch contact hole TCNT1 (see reference). Figure 6 The connecting electrode BE1 is electrically connected to the drive electrode TE through the first touch contact hole TCNT1, which is spaced apart from each other, and the drive electrode TE is electrically connected through the connecting electrode BE1.

[0100] The driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE can each have a planar shape with a grid structure or a mesh structure, but the embodiments are not limited to this.

[0101] The first display area DA1 may include a plurality of first pixels PX1 for displaying an image. Each of the plurality of first pixels PX1 may include a plurality of light-emitting areas EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4. For example, each of the plurality of first pixels PX1 may include a first light-emitting area EA1, a second light-emitting area EA2, a third light-emitting area EA3, and a fourth light-emitting area EA4. The first light-emitting areas EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 may emit light of different colors, but the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0102] Because the driving electrode TE, sensing electrode RE, and connecting electrode BE1 are formed into a planar grid structure or planar mesh structure, the light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 do not overlap with the driving electrode TE, sensing electrode RE, and connecting electrode BE1. Therefore, the light emitted from the light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 is not blocked by the driving electrode TE, sensing electrode RE, and connecting electrode BE1, thereby preventing or suppressing the reduction of light brightness.

[0103] Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 The cross-sectional view taken from line VI-VI'.

[0104] refer to Figure 6 The display layer DISL is disposed on the substrate SUB. The display layer DISL may include a thin-film transistor layer TFTL, a light-emitting element layer EML, and a thin-film encapsulation layer TFEL. A sensor electrode layer SENL, including a driving electrode TE, a sensing electrode RE, and a connecting electrode BE1, may be disposed on the display layer DISL. Each of the plurality of first pixels PX1 may include a first thin-film transistor ST1 and a first light-emitting element LEL1.

[0105] A thin film transistor layer (TFTL), including a first thin film transistor (ST1), can be disposed on a substrate (SUB). The TFTL may include the first thin film transistor (ST1), a first connection electrode (ANDE1), a first buffer layer (BF1), a gate insulating layer (130), a first interlayer insulating layer (141) and a second interlayer insulating layer (142), a first planarization layer (150), a second planarization layer (160), and a barrier layer (161).

[0106] A first buffer layer BF1 can be disposed on the substrate SUB. The first buffer layer BF1 can block impurities that may penetrate from below, improve the adhesion of components covered on it, and perform a planarization function. The first buffer layer BF1 can be formed of a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer.

[0107] The first thin-film transistor ST1 may be disposed on the first buffer layer BF1. The first thin-film transistor ST1 may include a first active layer ACT1, a first gate electrode G1, a first source electrode S1, and a first drain electrode D1.

[0108] The first active layer ACT1 of the first thin-film transistor ST1 may be disposed on the first buffer layer BF1. The first active layer ACT1 may include a silicon semiconductor such as polycrystalline silicon, monocrystalline silicon, low-temperature polycrystalline silicon, or amorphous silicon. The first active layer ACT1 may include a channel region located in a region overlapping with the first gate electrode G1 in the thickness direction (e.g., in the third direction DR3), and a source region and a drain region disposed on one side and the other side of the channel region.

[0109] The gate insulating layer 130 may be disposed on the first active layer ACT1 of the first thin film transistor ST1. The gate insulating layer 130 may be formed of an inorganic layer such as a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer.

[0110] The first gate electrode G1 and the first capacitor electrode CAE1 of the first thin-film transistor ST1 can be disposed on the gate insulating layer 130. The first gate electrode G1 of the first thin-film transistor ST1 can overlap with the first active layer ACT1 on the third-direction DR3. The first capacitor electrode CAE1 can overlap with the second capacitor electrode CAE2 on the third-direction DR3. Each of the first gate electrode G1 and the first capacitor electrode CAE1 can be formed as a single layer or multiple layers of any one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu) or their alloys.

[0111] The first interlayer insulating layer 141 may be disposed on the first gate electrode G1 and the first capacitor electrode CAE1. The first interlayer insulating layer 141 may include an inorganic layer.

[0112] The second capacitor electrode CAE2 can be disposed on the first interlayer insulating layer 141. The second capacitor electrode CAE2 can overlap with the first capacitor electrode CAE1 on the third-direction DR3. The capacitor CAP can be formed by the first capacitor electrode CAE1, the second capacitor electrode CAE2 and the first interlayer insulating layer 141. The second capacitor electrode CAE2 can be formed as a single layer or multiple layers of any one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd) and copper (Cu) or their alloys.

[0113] The second interlayer insulating layer 142 may be disposed on the second capacitor electrode CAE2. The second interlayer insulating layer 142 may include an inorganic layer.

[0114] The first source electrode S1 and the first drain electrode D1 of the first thin-film transistor ST1 can be disposed on the second interlayer insulating layer 142. Each of the first source electrode S1 and the first drain electrode D1 can be formed as a single layer or multiple layers of any one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd) and copper (Cu) or their alloys.

[0115] The first source electrode S1 of the first thin-film transistor ST1 can be connected to a conductive region on one side of the channel region of the first active layer ACT1 through contact holes passing through the gate insulating layer 130, the first interlayer insulating layer 141, and the second interlayer insulating layer 142. The first drain electrode D1 of the first thin-film transistor ST1 can be connected to a conductive region on the other side of the channel region of the first active layer ACT1 through contact holes passing through the gate insulating layer 130, the first interlayer insulating layer 141, and the second interlayer insulating layer 142.

[0116] A first planarization layer 150 may be disposed on the first source electrode S1 and the first drain electrode D1 to provide a substantially flat surface by covering the steps caused by the thin-film transistor. The first planarization layer 150 may be formed of an organic material such as acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin, or polyimide resin.

[0117] The first connection electrode ANDE1 can be disposed on the first planarization layer 150. The first connection electrode ANDE1 can be connected to the first source electrode S1 or the first drain electrode D1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 through a contact hole passing through the first planarization layer 150. The first connection electrode ANDE1 can be formed as a single layer or multiple layers of any one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd) and copper (Cu) or their alloys.

[0118] The second planarization layer 160 may be disposed on the first connecting electrode ANDE1. The second planarization layer 160 may include organic materials such as acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin, or polyimide resin.

[0119] The barrier layer 161 may be disposed on the second planarization layer 160. The barrier layer 161 may include an inorganic layer.

[0120] The light-emitting element layer (EML) is disposed on the thin-film transistor layer (TFTL). The light-emitting element layer (EML) may include a first light-emitting element (LEL1) and a pixel defining layer (180).

[0121] Each of the first light-emitting elements LEL1 may include a pixel electrode 171, a light-emitting layer 172, and a common electrode 173. Each of the light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 refers to a region where the pixel electrode 171, the light-emitting layer 172, and the common electrode 173 are sequentially stacked, and holes from the pixel electrode 171 and electrons from the common electrode 173 combine in the light-emitting layer 172 to emit light. In this case, the pixel electrode 171 may be an anode electrode, and the common electrode 173 may be a cathode electrode. Each of the first light-emitting region EA1, the second light-emitting region EA2, and the fourth light-emitting region EA4 may be coupled with… Figure 6The third luminescent region EA3 shown in the figure is basically the same.

[0122] Pixel electrode 171 can be disposed on barrier layer 161. Pixel electrode 171 can be connected to first connection electrode ANDE1 through contact holes passing through barrier layer 161 and second planarization layer 160.

[0123] In the top-emitting structure that emits light to the common electrode 173 based on the light-emitting layer 172, the pixel electrode 171 is formed as a single layer of molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), or aluminum (Al), or it can be formed as a stacked structure of aluminum and titanium (Ti / Al / Ti), a stacked structure of aluminum and ITO (ITO / Al / ITO), an APC alloy structure, or a stacked structure of APC alloy and ITO (ITO / APC / ITO). The APC alloy structure can be formed from an alloy of silver (Ag), palladium (Pd), and copper (Cu).

[0124] The pixel defining layer 180 defines the light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 of the display pixels. For example, the pixel defining layer 180 may be formed on the barrier layer 161 to expose a portion of the pixel electrode 171. The pixel defining layer 180 may cover the edge of the pixel electrode 171. The pixel electrode 171 may be disposed in a contact hole passing through the barrier layer 161 and the second planarization layer 160. Therefore, the contact hole passing through the barrier layer 161 and the second planarization layer 160 can be filled by the pixel electrode 171. The pixel defining layer 180 may be formed of an organic material such as acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin, or polyimide resin.

[0125] A light-emitting layer 172 is disposed on the pixel electrode 171 exposed by the pixel defining layer 180. The light-emitting layer 172 may include an organic material and emits light of a predetermined color. For example, the light-emitting layer 172 may include a hole injection or transport layer, an organic material layer, and an electron injection or transport layer. The organic material layer may include a host and a dopant. The organic material layer may include a material that emits light of a predetermined color and may be formed using phosphorescent or fluorescent materials.

[0126] A common electrode 173 is disposed on the light-emitting layer 172. The common electrode 173 may cover the light-emitting layer 172. The common electrode 173 may be a common layer formed in the display pixels. A capping layer may be formed on the common electrode 173.

[0127] In the top-emitting structure, the common electrode 173 can be formed of a transparent conductive material capable of transmitting light, such as ITO or IZO, or a semi-transparent metallic material, such as magnesium (Mg), silver (Ag), or an alloy of magnesium (Mg) and silver (Ag). When the common electrode 173 is formed of a semi-transparent metallic material, the luminous efficiency can be improved due to the microcavity.

[0128] A thin-film encapsulation layer (TFEL) can be formed on the light-emitting element layer (EML). The TFEL may include at least one inorganic layer for preventing oxygen or moisture from penetrating into the EML. Furthermore, the TFEL may include at least one organic layer for protecting the EML from foreign matter (e.g., particles).

[0129] For example, the thin-film encapsulation layer TFEL includes a first encapsulation inorganic layer 191 disposed on a common electrode 173, an encapsulation organic layer 192 disposed on the first encapsulation inorganic layer 191, and a second encapsulation inorganic layer 193 disposed on the encapsulation organic layer 192. Each of the first encapsulation inorganic layer 191 and the second encapsulation inorganic layer 193 may be formed as a multilayer in which one or more inorganic layers selected from silicon nitride layers, silicon oxynitride layers, silicon oxide layers, titanium oxide layers, and aluminum oxide layers are alternately stacked. The encapsulation organic layer 192 may include at least one selected from acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin, and polyimide resin.

[0130] The sensor electrode layer SENL is disposed on the thin-film encapsulation layer TFEL. The sensor electrode layer SENL may include a protective layer OC, a first touch inorganic layer TINS1, a second touch inorganic layer TINS2, and a touch organic layer TINS3, and may include a driving electrode TE, a sensing electrode RE, and a connection electrode BE1.

[0131] The protective layer OC can be disposed on the thin-film encapsulation layer TFEL. The protective layer OC may include at least one organic layer. For example, the protective layer OC may be formed of an organic material such as acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin, or polyimide resin.

[0132] The first touch inorganic layer TINS1 can be disposed on the protective layer OC. The first touch inorganic layer TINS1 can be formed by a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer, etc.

[0133] The connecting electrodes BE1 can be disposed on the first touch inorganic layer TINS1. Each of the connecting electrodes BE1 can be formed as a monolayer of molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), or aluminum (Al), or can be formed as a stacked structure of aluminum and titanium (e.g., Ti / Al / Ti), a stacked structure of aluminum and ITO (e.g., ITO / Al / ITO), an APC alloy structure, or a stacked structure of APC alloy and ITO (e.g., ITO / APC / ITO). For example, the APC alloy structure can be formed from an alloy of silver (Ag), palladium (Pd), and copper (Cu).

[0134] The second touch inorganic layer TINS2 can be disposed on the connecting electrode BE1. The second touch inorganic layer TINS2 can be formed of silicon nitride layer, silicon oxynitride layer, silicon oxide layer, titanium oxide layer or aluminum oxide layer, etc.

[0135] The driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE can be disposed on the second touch inorganic layer TINS2. Each of the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE can be formed as a monolayer of molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), or aluminum (Al), or can be formed as a stacked structure of aluminum and titanium (e.g., Ti / Al / Ti), a stacked structure of aluminum and ITO (e.g., ITO / Al / ITO), an APC alloy structure, or a stacked structure of APC alloy and ITO (e.g., ITO / APC / ITO). For example, the APC alloy structure can be formed from an alloy of silver (Ag), palladium (Pd), and copper (Cu).

[0136] The touch organic layer TINS3 can be disposed on the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE. The touch organic layer TINS3 can include acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin, or polyimide resin, etc.

[0137] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 A magnified view of region A. Figure 7 This is a layout diagram specifically showing the display area DA (e.g., DA1, DA2 and DA3) and the non-display area NDA arranged in the first corner portion CS1 of the display panel 100 according to the embodiment.

[0138] refer to Figure 7The intersection point CRP of the first curved line BL1 and the second curved line BL2 can be located in the second display area DA2. In this case, the first display area DA1 can be located on the front FS, the first curved section SS1, the second curved section SS2, and the first corner section CS1. The second display area DA2 can be located on the first curved section SS1, the second curved section SS2, and the first corner section CS1. For example, the second display area DA2 can be located on the front FS, the first curved section SS1, the second curved section SS2, and the first corner section CS1. The third display area DA3 can be located on the first curved section SS1, the second curved section SS2, and the first corner section CS1. The non-display area NDA can be located on the first curved section SS1, the second curved section SS2, and the first corner section CS1.

[0139] For example, the location of the intersection point CRP of the first curved line BL1 and the second curved line BL2 is not limited to this, and the intersection point CRP can be set in the first display area DA1 or the third display area DA3.

[0140] The substrate SUB may include a base BS and a cutout pattern CP. The base BS of the substrate SUB may extend across the front portion FS and the curved portions SS1, SS2, SS3, and SS4. The base BS may extend across the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2. The first pixel PX1 (reference) Figure 5 ) and the second pixel PX2 (reference) Figure 8 The first dam (DAM1) can be set on the base BS, and the first dam (DAM1) can be set on the base BS. The first dam (DAM1) can be set along the edge of the base BS.

[0141] The cutout pattern CP can protrude from the base BS. One end of the cutout pattern CP can be connected to the base BS. Except for the portion where the cutout pattern CP is connected to the base BS, the remaining area can be exposed. In other words, except for the portion where the cutout pattern CP is connected to the base BS, the remaining area can be separated from the base BS and can be at least partially separated from adjacent cutout pattern CPs. The cutout pattern CP can be set in the third display area DA3. Multiple cutout pattern CPs can be provided.

[0142] Multiple cut patterns CP can be provided in at least one of the corner portions CS1, CS2, CS3, and CS4. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and some of the multiple cut patterns CP can be provided in any one of the bend portions SS1, SS2, SS3, and SS4. Second dam DAM2 (reference) Figure 8 This is set in each cut pattern CP, and can be set along the edge of each cut pattern CP. Second dam DAM2 (reference) Figure 8The planar shape of the second dam DAM2 can correspond to the planar shape of the cut pattern CP, but the embodiments are not limited to this. For example, the planar shape of the second dam DAM2 can be smaller than the planar shape of the cut pattern CP.

[0143] The base BS may include multiple cutout patterns CP protruding from one end, but the embodiments are not limited thereto. Therefore, the directions in which the multiple cutout patterns CP protrude may differ from one another. The length of each cutout pattern CP in the direction protruding from the base BS may be greater than the width of each cutout pattern CP in the direction perpendicular to the direction protruding from the base BS.

[0144] Each of the cut patterns CP protrudes from the base BS and can be connected to the base BS. In the plan view, adjacent cut patterns CP can be spaced apart from each other in at least some areas.

[0145] The width of each cutout pattern CP can decrease as it moves toward the non-display area NDA. In this case, each of the cutout patterns CP can have a trapezoidal shape in the plan view, but the embodiment is not limited to this. When each of the cutout patterns CP has a trapezoidal shape, one side of the trapezoidal shape can be connected to the base BS, and the other three sides of the trapezoidal shape can be separated from other components and not connected to other components.

[0146] Multiple cutout patterns CP may face each other, for example, in a first direction DR1 or a second direction DR2. In other words, multiple cutout patterns CP may be spaced apart from each other by cutout portions CG, and the side surfaces of each cutout pattern CP may face each other. In a plan view, the spacing between adjacent cutout patterns CP may increase as the view moves toward the non-display area NDA.

[0147] When the cut pattern CP is bent, the spacing between adjacent cut pattern CPs can be reduced, or adjacent cut pattern CPs can come into direct contact with each other. When adjacent cut pattern CPs can come into direct contact with each other, the physical interface (e.g., boundary portion) can be located between adjacent cut pattern CPs. However, the embodiments are not limited to this. For example, when the cut pattern CP is bent, adjacent cut pattern CPs can overlap each other, for example, on a third-direction DR3. Furthermore, when the cut pattern CP is bent, the third pixel PX3 (reference) provided on each cut pattern CP... Figure 8 The interval between ) can be reduced.

[0148] While bending the cut pattern CP, the outermost cut pattern CP located among multiple cut patterns CP can directly contact the base BS disposed on the adjacent bends SS1, SS2, SS3, and SS4. In this case, the physical interface (e.g., the boundary portion) can be located between the cut pattern CP and the base BS adjacent to the cut pattern CP and disposed on the adjacent bends SS1, SS2, SS3, and SS4.

[0149] Adjacent cut patterns CP can be spaced apart from each other by cut portions CG in at least some areas. Space can be provided between adjacent cut patterns CP by the cut portions CG. Therefore, even when the first corner portion CS1 has a hyperbola, the first corner portion CS1 can be stretched and contracted, allowing the tension applied to the first corner portion CS1 to be reduced by the cut portions CG. The substrate of the display panel 100 can be laser-cut. Figure 4 The CP can be formed by using the SUB, but the embodiments are not limited to this.

[0150] The curvature of the outer side of the third display area DA3 can be greater than the curvature of its inner side. For example, the third display area DA3 can have a planar crescent shape. Therefore, the areas of the cut patterns CP in the first corner portion CS1 can be different from each other. Furthermore, the protruding length of each of the cut patterns CP in the first corner portion CS1 can be substantially the same as the minimum length between the position where the cut pattern CP contacts the second display area DA2 and the position where the cut pattern CP contacts the non-display area NDA.

[0151] The display panel 100 may further include a first dam DAM1. The first dam DAM1 may be configured to surround a first display area DA1. The first dam DAM1 may be configured across a second display area DA2 and a non-display area NDA. The first dam DAM1 may extend over a first corner CS1, a first bend SS1, and a second bend SS2. For example, the first dam DAM1 may also extend over a second corner CS2, a third corner CS3, and a fourth corner CS4, as well as a third bend SS3 and a fourth bend SS4. Details of the first dam DAM1 will be described later.

[0152] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A magnified view of region B. Figure 9 It is along Figure 8 The cross-sectional view taken by the line IX-IX′. Figure 10 It is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view taken by line X-X'. Figure 11 It is along Figure 8 The cross-sectional view taken from line XI-XI'. Figure 8Specifically, a second display area DA2 and a third display area DA3 are shown in the first corner portion CS1 of the display panel 100 according to the embodiment.

[0153] Further reference Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 The second display area DA2 may include a plurality of second pixels PX2, and the third display area DA3 may include a plurality of third pixels PX3. Each of the plurality of second pixels PX2 may include a plurality of light-emitting areas EA1', EA2', and EA3', and each of the plurality of third pixels PX3 may include a plurality of light-emitting areas EA1', EA2', and EA3'.

[0154] The second display area DA2 may include a second thin-film transistor ST2 and a scan driving transistor SDT. The second thin-film transistor ST2 can drive the second pixel PX2, and the scan driving transistor SDT can drive the first pixel PX1.

[0155] A driving voltage line VSL may be further disposed in the second display area DA2. The driving voltage line VSL can apply a driving voltage to the first pixel PX1 of the first display area DA1. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the driving voltage line VSL can also apply a driving voltage to at least one of the second pixel PX2 of the second display area DA2 and the third pixel PX3 of the third display area DA3.

[0156] The driving voltage line VSL can be located not only in the second display area DA2, but also in the non-display area NDA. In other words, the driving voltage line VSL can be located across the second display area DA2 and the non-display area NDA. The driving voltage line VSL can also be located in the third display area DA3. In this case, the driving voltage line VSL can overlap with the first dam DAM1 and the second dam DAM2 in the thickness direction (e.g., in the third third direction DR3).

[0157] The driving voltage line VSL can be disposed on the first planarization layer 150, and an etch-resistant pattern EST, a first dam DAM1, and a second dam DAM2 can be provided thereon. The driving voltage line VSL and the first connection electrode ANDE1 can be formed on the same layer (e.g., the first planarization layer 150), but the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0158] The second display area DA2 may further include a pixel driver PXD. The pixel driver PXD may be located in the second display area DA2 adjacent to the first display area DA1, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. A second thin-film transistor ST2 may be located in the pixel driver PXD. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and a scan drive transistor SDT of the scan driver may be further located in the pixel driver PXD.

[0159] The scan drive transistor SDT can be located in the second display area DA2 and below the second pixel PX2, but the embodiment is not limited to this.

[0160] A scan-driven transistor (SDT) may include a scan active layer (SACT), a scan gate electrode (SG), a scan source electrode (SS), and a scan drain electrode (SD). Because the scan active layer (SACT), scan gate electrode (SG), scan source electrode (SS), and scan drain electrode (SD) of the scan-driven transistor SDT are... Figure 6 The first active layer ACT1, the first gate electrode G1, the first source electrode S1 and the first drain electrode D1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 are basically the same. Therefore, for the sake of convenience, the description of the scan drive transistor SDT will be omitted.

[0161] The second thin-film transistor ST2 may include a second active layer ACT2, a second gate electrode G2, a second source electrode S2, and a second drain electrode D2. Because the second active layer ACT2, the second gate electrode G2, the second source electrode S2, and the second drain electrode D2 of the second thin-film transistor ST2 are... Figure 6 The first active layer ACT1, the first gate electrode G1, the first source electrode S1 and the first drain electrode D1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 are basically the same. Therefore, for the sake of convenience, the description of the second thin film transistor ST2 will be omitted.

[0162] The display panel 100 may further include pixel connection lines (PXCs). The pixel connection lines (PXCs) may extend in one direction. In other words, the pixel connection lines (PXCs) may extend from the outside of the pixel driver PXD to the inside of the pixel driver PXD. The pixel connection lines (PXCs) may overlap with at least one scan drive transistor (SDT) on a third-direction DR3.

[0163] The pixel connection line PXC can be connected to the second drain electrode D2 of the second thin-film transistor ST2 through the first driving contact hole DCT1. The first driving contact hole DCT1 can be a hole that passes through the first planarization layer 150 to expose the second drain electrode D2 of the second thin-film transistor ST2.

[0164] The pixel electrode 171' of the first light-emitting region EA1' can be connected to the pixel connection line PXC through the first pixel contact hole PCT1. Although the pixel electrode 171' of the first light-emitting region EA1' is shown in the figure as electrically connected to the pixel connection line PXC in a cross-sectional view, its description can also be applied to the pixel electrode 171' of the second light-emitting region EA2' and the pixel electrode 171' of the third light-emitting region EA3'.

[0165] The pixel connection line PXC and the first connection electrode ANDE1 can be disposed on the same layer (e.g., the first planarization layer 150) and can be formed of the same material as the first connection electrode ANDE1. For example, the pixel connection line PXC can be disposed on the first planarization layer 150. The second planarization layer 160 can be disposed on the pixel connection line PXC.

[0166] The pixel electrode 171' of the second light-emitting element LEL2 can be connected to the pixel connection line PXC through the first pixel contact hole PCT1. The first pixel contact hole PCT1 can be a hole that passes through the second planarization layer 160 and the barrier layer 161 to expose the pixel connection line PXC.

[0167] The third display area DA3 may include a third thin-film transistor ST3. The third thin-film transistor ST3 may include a third active layer ACT3, a third gate electrode G3, a third source electrode S3, and a third drain electrode D3. Because the third active layer ACT3, the third gate electrode G3, the third source electrode S3, and the third drain electrode D3 of the third thin-film transistor ST3 are... Figure 6 The first active layer ACT1, the first gate electrode G1, the first source electrode S1 and the first drain electrode D1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 are basically the same. Therefore, for the sake of convenience, the description of the third thin film transistor ST3 will be omitted.

[0168] Because the third light-emitting element LEL3 in the light-emitting element layer EML is... Figure 6 The first light-emitting element LEL1 of the light-emitting element layer EML is basically the same, so for the sake of convenience, the description of the third light-emitting element LEL3 of the light-emitting element layer EML will be omitted.

[0169] The first encapsulation inorganic layer 191 and the second encapsulation inorganic layer 193 can be disposed on the cut surface or side surface of the notch pattern CP. For example, the first encapsulation inorganic layer 191 and the second encapsulation inorganic layer 193 can be disposed on the cut surface or side surface of the substrate SUB, the first buffer layer BF1, the gate insulating layer 130, the first interlayer insulating layer 141, the second interlayer insulating layer 142, and the first planarization layer 150 of the notch pattern CP. Therefore, the light-emitting layer 172” can be prevented from being damaged by moisture or oxygen introduced through the cut surface or side surface of the notch pattern CP.

[0170] The first dam DAM1 can be located in the second display area DA2, outside the second pixel PX2. In other words, in a plan view, the first dam DAM1 can be located in the second display area DA2 and can be located between the second pixel PX2 and the third display area DA3. Alternatively, in a plan view, the first dam DAM1 can be located in the second display area DA2 and can be located between the second pixel PX2 and the second dam DAM2.

[0171] The first dam DAM1 can have different patterns in the non-display area NDA and the second display area DA2. References will be made below. Figure 12 To describe its details further.

[0172] Figure 12 yes Figure 7 A magnified view of region C. Figure 12 The planar shape of the first dam DAM1, which is set in the second display area DA2 and the non-display area NDA, is shown.

[0173] In addition, refer to Figure 12 The first dam DAM1 disposed in the non-display area NDA can have a linear shape extending along the edge of the first display area DA1. The first dam DAM1 can be disposed in the non-display area NDA on one side and the other side of the first display area DA1 in the first direction DR1 and on one side and the other side of the first display area DA1 in the second direction DR2, and each portion of the first dam DAM1 disposed in the non-display area NDA can be formed integrally. The first dam DAM1 disposed in the second display area DA2 can not be formed integrally and can have a shape in which multiple first unit patterns DAMP1 and multiple second unit patterns DAMP2 are repeatedly arranged.

[0174] Specifically, in the second display area DA2, the first dam DAM1 may include a first dam pattern DAM11 and a second dam pattern DAM12. The first dam pattern DAM11 and the second dam pattern DAM12 may be positioned around the first display area DA1. The second dam pattern DAM12 may be positioned outside the first dam pattern DAM11. In other words, the second dam pattern DAM12 may be positioned closer to the third display area DA3 than the first dam pattern DAM11, and the second dam pattern DAM12 may be positioned between the first dam pattern DAM11 and the second dam DAM2.

[0175] The first dam pattern DAM11 may include a plurality of first unit patterns DAMP1 spaced apart from each other, and the second dam pattern DAM12 may include a plurality of second unit patterns DAMP2 spaced apart from each other. The first unit patterns DAMP1 and the second unit patterns DAMP2 may be spaced apart from each other. The first unit patterns DAMP1 of the first dam pattern DAM11 and the second unit patterns DAMP2 of the second dam pattern DAM12 may be arranged repeatedly to surround the first display area DA1.

[0176] Each of the first unit pattern DAMP1 and each of the second unit pattern DAMP2 can be formed in an island shape. The first unit pattern DAMP1 and the second unit pattern DAMP2 can have the same planar shape, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. Each of the first unit pattern DAMP1 and the second unit pattern DAMP2 can have a rectangular shape, but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0177] The direction in which the first unit pattern DAMP1 is repeated in the first dam pattern DAM11 can be substantially the same as the direction in which the second unit pattern DAMP2 is repeated in the second dam pattern DAM12. The first unit pattern DAMP1 and the second unit pattern DAMP2 can be arranged alternately. In other words, a virtual straight line passing between two adjacent first unit patterns DAMP1 can pass through a second unit pattern DAMP2 adjacent to a first unit pattern DAMP1. Furthermore, a virtual straight line passing between two adjacent second unit patterns DAMP2 can pass through a first unit pattern DAMP1 adjacent to a second unit pattern DAMP2.

[0178] Therefore, when the encapsulated organic layer 192 or the first organic layer OF1 is disposed on the first dam DAM1, the flow of the encapsulated organic layer 192 or the first organic layer OF1 from the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 to the third display area DA3 can be controlled due to the capillary phenomenon between the unit patterns DAMP1 and DAMP2.

[0179] In other words, when the encapsulation organic layer 192 or the first organic layer OF1 is formed, capillary action can occur in the space between the cell patterns DAMP1 and DAMP2, and the encapsulation organic layer 192 or the first organic layer OF1 can flow to preferentially fill the space between the cell patterns DAMP1 and DAMP2, rather than overflowing the cell patterns DAMP1 and DAMP2 of the first dam DAM1. Therefore, the flow of the encapsulation organic layer 192 or the first organic layer OF1 can be controlled, and the encapsulation organic layer 192 or the first organic layer OF1 can advance substantially uniformly towards the third display area DA3. Furthermore, the encapsulation organic layer 192 or the first organic layer OF1 can be configured to have a substantially uniform thickness on one side of the second dam DAM2, and visual recognition of the encapsulation organic layer 192 or the first organic layer OF1 can be suppressed or prevented.

[0180] The second dam DAM2 can be set in the third display area DA3. A second dam DAM2 can be provided for each cutout pattern CP. The second dam DAM2 can be set around multiple third pixels PX3 set in each cutout pattern CP. The second dam DAM2 can be set along the edge of the cutout pattern CP.

[0181] The second dams DAM2 of each cutout pattern CP can be connected to each other via connecting dams DAM3. In this case, one side of one cutout pattern CP and one side of another cutout pattern CP can be connected to each other. For example, the substrate SUB can further include a connecting region CA, which can be disposed in the region near the second display region DA2 in each cutout portion CG, and adjacent cutout patterns CP can be connected in some regions via the connecting region CA. In this case, at least a portion of the connecting dam DAM3 can be disposed in the connecting region CA.

[0182] However, the embodiments are not limited to this, and the connecting region CA can be omitted. In this case, the connecting dam DAM3 can be connected to the second dam DAM2 of the adjacent cut pattern CP through the second display region DA2 of the base BS.

[0183] The adjacent second dams DAM2 can be interconnected via connecting dams DAM3, and the first pixel PX1 of the first display area DA1 and the second pixel PX2 of the second display area DA2 can be surrounded by the second dams DAM2 and connecting dams DAM3. Therefore, even when the first unit pattern DAMP1 and the second unit pattern DAMP2 of the first dam DAM1 have an island shape, the encapsulation organic layer 192 can be prevented from overflowing into the cutout CG. In other words, the second dams DAM2 and connecting dams DAM3 can prevent the encapsulation organic layer 192 disposed in the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 from overflowing into the cutout CG. Therefore, the reliability of the display device 10 can be improved.

[0184] The first dam DAM1 and the second dam DAM2 may be disposed on the first planarization layer 150. An etch-prevention pattern EST may be further disposed on the first planarization layer 150. The etch-prevention pattern EST may be disposed on the drive voltage line VSL, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. The etch-prevention pattern EST may include inorganic materials, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. The etch-prevention pattern EST may be disposed around the first dam DAM1 and the second dam DAM2, and may serve as an etch stopper in the process of forming the first dam DAM1 and the second dam DAM2. The etch-prevention pattern EST can prevent the drive voltage line VSL from being etched and damaged. At least a portion of the etch-prevention pattern EST may overlap with the first dam DAM1 and / or the second dam DAM2 in the thickness direction (e.g., in the third direction DR3).

[0185] The first dam DAM1 may include a first sub-dam SDAM1 formed of the same material as the second planarization layer 160, a second sub-dam SDAM2 formed of the same material as the barrier layer 161, a third sub-dam SDAM3 formed of the same material as the pixel defining layer 180, and a spacer SC. The spacer SC may be integrally formed with the third sub-dam SDAM3, but the embodiments are not limited thereto. The first sub-dam SDAM1, the second sub-dam SDAM2, the third sub-dam SDAM3, and the spacer SC may be stacked sequentially.

[0186] The second dam DAM2 may include a first sub-dam SDAM1' formed of the same material as the second planarization layer 160, a second sub-dam SDAM2' formed of the same material as the barrier layer 161, and a third sub-dam SDAM3' formed of the same material as the pixel defining layer 180. The first sub-dam SDAM1', the second sub-dam SDAM2', and the third sub-dam SDAM3' may be stacked sequentially.

[0187] In other words, the first dam DAM1 and the second dam DAM2 have essentially the same construction, and the first dam DAM1 may further include spacer SC.

[0188] Spacers SC can be used to maintain gaps with structures disposed thereon. For example, when the organic material of the light-emitting layer 172' is deposited through a fine metal mask, spacers SC can be used to prevent the fine metal mask from sagging. In some cases, spacers SC can be used to support structures stacked thereon, to maintain cell gaps between the first substrate and the second substrate, and to reduce deformation of the display panel 100 caused by stress due to pressing the display panel 100.

[0189] The height h1 of the upper surface of the first dam DAM1 and the height h2 of the upper surface of the second dam DAM2 can be different from each other. In other words, the upper surface of the first dam DAM1 can be located higher than the upper surface of the second dam DAM2 relative to one surface of the substrate SUB. Alternatively, the upper surface of the first dam DAM1 can be located higher than the upper surface of the second dam DAM2 relative to the upper surface of the first planarization layer 150. Furthermore, the height h2 of the upper surface of the second dam DAM2 can be substantially the same as the height of the upper surface of the pixel defining layer 180, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. The thickness of the first dam DAM1 can be different from the thickness of the second dam DAM2. The thickness of the first dam DAM1 can be greater than the thickness of the second dam DAM2, but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0190] Since the upper surface of the first dam DAM1 is positioned higher than the upper surface of the second dam DAM2, the second dam DAM2 can suppress or prevent indentation caused by the fine metal mask (FMM). For example, the second dam DAM2 can be protected from damage by the indentation of the fine metal mask (FMM). Therefore, foreign matter or cracks that may be caused by indentation from the fine metal mask can be suppressed or prevented, and further, the reliability of the display device 10 can be improved.

[0191] The first dam DAM1 may overlap with the encapsulation organic layer 192 of the thin-film encapsulation layer TFEL in the thickness direction (e.g., in the third direction DR3). Specifically, the encapsulation organic layer 192 may include a first organic layer OF1 and a second organic layer OF2. The first organic layer OF1 may be disposed on one side of the second dam DAM2 and may extend over the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2. The second organic layer OF2 may be disposed on the other side of the second dam DAM2 and may be disposed in the third display area DA3. The first organic layer OF1 and the second organic layer OF2 may be spaced apart from each other, with the second dam DAM2 between them, but the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0192] The first organic layer OF1 and the second organic layer OF2 can have different thicknesses. The thickness TH1 of the first organic layer OF1 can be greater than the thickness TH2 of the second organic layer OF2. The thickness TH1 of the first organic layer OF1 and the thickness TH2 of the second organic layer OF2 can refer to the thickness between the upper surface of the pixel defining layer 180 and the upper surface of the first organic layer OF1, and the thickness between the upper surface of the pixel defining layer 180 and the upper surface of the second organic layer OF2, respectively. For example, the thickness TH1 of the first organic layer OF1 can be in the range of about 7 μm to about 9 μm, in the range of about 6 μm to about 10 μm, or about 8 μm, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. The thickness TH2 of the second organic layer OF2 can be in the range of about 3 μm to about 5 μm, in the range of about 2 μm to about 6 μm, or about 4 μm.

[0193] Because the first organic layer OF1, which is normally not bent, is relatively thick in the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2, and the second organic layer OF2, which is normally bent, is relatively thin, the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2, which are normally not bent, can be sealed more tightly. At the same time, the third pixel PX3, which is normally bent, can be sealed, and each cut pattern CP can be bent more easily.

[0194] The first organic layer OF1 can cover the entire area of ​​the first dam DAM1. In other words, the first organic layer OF1 can be disposed not only in the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2, but also in the intermediate area BTA outside the first dam DAM1. For example, the first organic layer OF1 can fill the intermediate area BTA between the first dam DAM1 and the second dam DAM2. The first organic layer OF1 may not be disposed in the area outside the second dam DAM2. For example, the first organic layer OF1 may not be disposed in the inner area surrounded by the second dam DAM2. Furthermore, the second organic layer OF2 can be disposed in the third display area DA3, and may not be disposed in the intermediate area BTA outside the second dam DAM2.

[0195] In this configuration, the first organic layer OF1 can overlap the entire area of ​​the first dam DAM1, and can also overlap the entire area of ​​the first dam DAM1 in the thickness direction (e.g., in the third direction DR3). The first organic layer OF1 can cover at least a portion of the second dam DAM2, and can also overlap at least a portion of the second dam DAM2 in the thickness direction (e.g., in the third direction DR3). Furthermore, the second organic layer OF2 can cover at least a portion of the second dam DAM2, and can also overlap at least a portion of the second dam DAM2 in the thickness direction (e.g., in the third direction DR3).

[0196] Therefore, since the first dam DAM1 is covered by the encapsulating organic layer 192, and the upper surface of the first dam DAM1 is positioned higher than the upper surface of the second dam DAM2, even when the first dam DAM1 is imprinted by the mask, the encapsulating organic layer 192 covers the first dam DAM1, thus suppressing or preventing a decrease in reliability caused by the first dam DAM1. Therefore, the reliability of the display device 10 can be improved.

[0197] Since the first dam DAM1 is covered by the first organic layer OF1 and the first organic layer OF1 is disposed in the intermediate region BTA, the first organic layer OF1 above the first dam DAM1 can have a predetermined thickness. Therefore, when the sensor electrode layer SENL disposed above the first dam DAM1 senses a touch, the touch sensitivity in the area where the first dam DAM1 is disposed can be improved.

[0198] Although the accompanying drawings show that common electrodes 173' and 173" are not respectively disposed on the first dam DAM1 and the second dam DAM2, the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the common electrode 173' of the second pixel PX2 may be further disposed on the first dam DAM1, and the common electrode 173' of the second pixel PX2 disposed on the first dam DAM1 may be short-circuited with the common electrode 173' of the second pixel PX2 disposed on the pixel defining layer 180 of the second display area DA2. Furthermore, the common electrode 173" of the third pixel PX3 may be further disposed on the second dam DAM2, and the common electrode 173" of the third pixel PX3 disposed on the second dam DAM2 may be short-circuited with the common electrode 173" of the third pixel PX3 disposed on the pixel defining layer 180 of the third display area DA3.

[0199] In the cross-sectional view, the first dam DAM1 and the second dam DAM2 may have an undercut shape. In other words, the side surface of the second sub-dam SDAM2 of the first dam DAM1 may protrude outward from the side surface of its first sub-dam SDAM1, and the side surface of the second sub-dam SDAM2' of the second dam DAM2 may protrude outward from the side surface of its first sub-dam SDAM1'. The side surface of the third sub-dam SDAM3 of the first dam DAM1 may protrude outward from the side surface of its first sub-dam SDAM1, and the side surface of the third sub-dam SDAM3' of the second dam DAM2 may protrude outward from the side surface of its first sub-dam SDAM1', but the embodiments are not limited to this.

[0200] Since both the first dam DAM1 and the second dam DAM2 have an undercut shape, the adhesion of the encapsulated organic layer 192 can be improved when the bends SS1, SS2, SS3 and SS4 and the corners CS1, CS2, CS3 and CS4 are bent. Therefore, even when the bends SS1, SS2, SS3 and SS4 and the corners CS1, CS2, CS3 and CS4 are bent, the lifting of the encapsulated organic layer 192 can be suppressed or prevented, and the reliability of the display device 10 can be improved.

[0201] Hereinafter, a method for manufacturing the display device 10 according to an embodiment will be described.

[0202] Figure 13 , Figure 14 and Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment.

[0203] First, refer to Figure 13 A third thin-film transistor ST3 and a scan drive transistor SDT are formed on a substrate SUB, and a first planarization layer 150 is formed covering the third thin-film transistor ST3 and the scan drive transistor SDT. Although only the third thin-film transistor ST3 and the scan drive transistor SDT are shown in the figures, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the first thin-film transistor ST1 (refer to...) Figure 6 ) and the second thin-film transistor ST2 (reference) Figure 10 It can be formed together with the third thin-film transistor ST3 and the scan drive transistor SDT.

[0204] Subsequently, a driving voltage line VSL, a first connection electrode ANDE1, an etch-resistant pattern EST, and a pixel connection line PXC are formed on the first planarization layer 150. In this case, the etch-resistant pattern EST can be patterned. Therefore, venting can be easily performed in the first planarization layer 150, and thus the reliability of the display device 10 can be improved.

[0205] Subsequently, a material layer 160a of the second planarization layer 160 is formed on the driving voltage line VSL, the first connection electrode ANDE1, the etch-resistant pattern EST, and the pixel connection line PXC. The material layer 160a of the second planarization layer 160 can cover the first connection electrode ANDE1, the etch-resistant pattern EST, and the pixel connection line PXC, and can be formed throughout the entire area of ​​the substrate SUB.

[0206] Subsequently, second sub-dams SDAM2 and SDAM2', a barrier layer 161, and pixel electrodes 171' and 171' are formed on the material layer 160a of the second planarization layer 160. In this case, the second sub-dams SDAM2 and SDAM2' and the barrier layer 161 may comprise substantially the same material and can be patterned. Therefore, venting can be easily performed in the material layer 160a of the second planarization layer 160, and thus the reliability of the display device 10 can be improved.

[0207] Subsequently, a material layer 180a of the pixel defining layer 180 is formed on the barrier layer 161 and the pixel electrodes 171' and 171" . The material layer 180a of the pixel defining layer 180 may cover the barrier layer 161 and the pixel electrodes 171' and 171" , and may be formed throughout the entire area of ​​the substrate SUB.

[0208] Subsequently, refer to Figure 14 The material layer 180a of the pixel defining layer 180 is patterned. The material layer 180a of the pixel defining layer 180 may include, for example, an organic material comprising a photosensitive material. In this case, patterned sub-dams SDAM2, SDAM3, SDAM2', and SDAM3', as well as spacers SC, can be formed by exposing and developing the material layer 180a of the pixel defining layer 180. The material layer 180a of the pixel defining layer 180 can be formed into structures with different heights through exposure and development.

[0209] Specifically, spacers SC and third sub-dams SDAM3 and SDAM3' are formed by exposing and developing the material layer 180a of the pixel-defining layer 180, and a halftone mask can be used during the exposure process. The material layer 180a of the pixel-defining layer 180 can be exposed through the halftone mask, and the degree of exposure can be different for each area of ​​the material layer 180a of the pixel-defining layer 180. Therefore, the material layer 180a of the pixel-defining layer 180 can form areas with different heights in the second display area DA2. For example, spacers SC can be formed on the third sub-dam SDAM3 of the second display area DA2, and may not be formed on the third sub-dam SDAM3' of the third display area DA3. Therefore, according to the process described later, the first dam DAM1 (refer to...) Figure 9The upper surface of the second dam DAM2 (reference) Figure 9 The upper surface of the substrate SUB can have different heights.

[0210] Furthermore, when the material layer 180a of the pixel limiting layer 180 is patterned, portions of the side surfaces of the second sub-dams SDAM2 and SDAM2' can be exposed. The side surfaces of the second sub-dams SDAM2 and SDAM2' can protrude outward from the side surfaces of the third sub-dams SDAM3 and SDAM3'.

[0211] Subsequently, refer to Figure 15 The second planarization layer 160 and the first sub-dams SDAM1 and SDAM1' are formed by patterning the material layer 160a of the second planarization layer 160.

[0212] Specifically, a patterned hard mask HM is formed on the patterned sub-dams SDAM2, SDAM3, SDAM2', and SDAM3' and the spacer SC, and the hard mask HM is used as an etch mask to etch the material layer 160a of the second planarization layer 160. The material layer 160a of the second planarization layer 160 to be etched can overlap with the area where the etch-prevention pattern EST is disposed. In other words, the hard mask HM can be patterned to expose the underlying etch-prevention pattern EST, and the hard mask HM can be used to etch the material layer 160a of the second planarization layer 160 to pattern the material layer 160a of the second planarization layer 160.

[0213] Due to the etch-prevention pattern EST disposed beneath the material layer 160a of the second planarization layer 160, the first dam DAM1 and the second dam DAM2 can have an undercut shape.

[0214] Other embodiments will be described below. In the following embodiments, redundant descriptions of components that are the same as those described above will be omitted or simplified, and the differences will be mainly described.

[0215] Figure 16 This is an enlarged view of a portion of a plan view of a display device according to another embodiment. Figure 17 It is along Figure 16 A cross-sectional view taken from line XVII-XVII'.

[0216] refer to Figure 16 and Figure 17 The display device 10_1 according to the embodiment and the display device 10_1 according to the embodiment Figure 8 and Figure 9 The difference in the embodiment of the display device 10 is that it further includes a second sub-dam DAM2s.

[0217] Specifically, the display device 10_1 according to the embodiment may further include a second sub-dam DAM2s. The second sub-dam DAM2s may be disposed in the third display area DA3, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the second sub-dam DAM2s may be disposed in the second display area DA2 or in the non-display area NDA. The second sub-dam DAM2s may be disposed between the first dam DAM1 and the second dam DAM2. The second sub-dam DAM2s may be formed integrally. The second sub-dam DAM2s may cover the side surfaces of the second dam DAM2 and the connecting dam DAM3.

[0218] Based on one surface of the substrate SUB, the height of the upper surface of the second sub-dam DAM2s can be substantially the same as the height of the upper surface of the second dam DAM2. Based on one surface of the substrate SUB, the height of the upper surface of the second sub-dam DAM2s can be lower than the height of the upper surface of the first dam DAM1.

[0219] The first organic layer OF1 of the encapsulating organic layer 192 can be disposed in the second sub-dam DAM2s outside the first dam DAM1. The first organic layer OF1 can be disposed outside the region outside the second sub-dam DAM2s. The second organic layer OF2 can be disposed outside the region outside the second dam DAM2. Therefore, the encapsulating organic layer 192 can be disposed outside the sub-intermediate region BTAs between the second dam DAM2 and the second sub-dam DAM2s.

[0220] In this configuration, the second dam DAM2 and the second sub-dam DAM2s can suppress or prevent imprinting of the fine metal mask (FMM), and even when imprinting occurs due to the fine metal mask, the first dam DAM1 can be covered by the encapsulating organic layer 192. Furthermore, since the second sub-dam DAM2s are further disposed between the second dam DAM2 and the first dam DAM1, overflow of the encapsulating organic layer 192 can be more easily prevented, and the reliability of the display device 10_1 can be further improved.

[0221] Figure 18 This is an enlarged view of a portion of a plan view of a display device according to another embodiment.

[0222] refer to Figure 18 The display device 10_2 according to the embodiment and the display device 10_2 according to the embodiment Figure 8 The difference of the display device 10 in the embodiment is that, in the plan view, each unit pattern DAMP1_2 or DAMP2_2 of the first dam DAM1 of the display device 10_2 can have various shapes, but does not have a rectangular shape in the plan view.

[0223] Specifically, in the plan view, each of the unit patterns DAMP1_2 and DAMP2_2 of the first dam DAM1 of the display device 10_2 according to the embodiment can have various shapes. For example, in the plan view, each of the unit patterns DAMP1_2 and DAMP2_2 can have a hexagonal shape. In this case, the axis in the direction in which the respective unit patterns DAMP1_2 and DAMP2_2 are arranged can be longer than the axis in the direction perpendicular to it, but the embodiment is not limited to this.

[0224] Even in this case, the flow of the encapsulated organic layer 192 or the first organic layer OF1 from the first display area DA1 and the second display area DA2 to the third display area DA3 can be controlled by the capillary effect between the unit patterns DAMP1_1 and DAMP2_2. Furthermore, depending on the characteristics of the encapsulated organic layer 192 or the first organic layer OF1 and / or the degree of curvature of the second display area DA2 and the third display area DA3, each of the unit patterns DAMP1_2 and DAMP2_2 controlling the flow of the first organic layer OF1 can have various planar shapes.

[0225] Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to another embodiment.

[0226] refer to Figure 19 The display device 10_3 according to the embodiment and the display device 10_3 according to the embodiment Figure 9 The difference in the embodiment of the display device 10 is that the first organic layer OF1_3 and the second organic layer OF2_3 of the encapsulation organic layer 192 of the display device 10_3 can be in direct contact with each other.

[0227] Specifically, according to the embodiment, the first organic layer OF1_3 and the second organic layer OF2_3 of the encapsulation organic layer 192 can be in direct contact with each other in at least some areas. The first organic layer OF1_3 and the second organic layer OF2_3 of the encapsulation organic layer 192 can be in direct contact with each other on the second dam DAM2 and can overlap each other in the thickness direction. For example, the first organic layer OF1_3 can be disposed on the second organic layer OF2_3, but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0228] Despite Figure 19 The diagram shows a first organic layer OF1_3 and a second organic layer OF2_3 of encapsulated organic layer 192 separated from each other in a region where they are in direct contact with each other and overlap each other in the thickness direction. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and the first organic layer OF1_3 and the second organic layer OF2_3 may be in direct contact with each other to be mixed, and there may be no physical boundary.

[0229] In this case, the second dam DAM2 can suppress or prevent imprinting caused by the fine metal mask (FMM), and even when imprinting occurs due to the fine metal mask, the first dam DAM1 can be covered by the encapsulating organic layer 192.

[0230] Although specific embodiments and implementations have been described herein, other embodiments and modifications will be apparent from the description. Therefore, the inventive concept is not limited to such embodiments, but rather to the broader scope of the appended claims and various obvious modifications and equivalent arrangements that will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: A display panel has a front portion, a first curved portion extending from a first side of the front portion, a second curved portion extending from a second side of the front portion, and a corner portion disposed between the first curved portion and the second curved portion. The display panel includes a plurality of first pixels disposed in the front portion and a plurality of second pixels disposed in the corner portion. The display panel further includes: substrate; A first dam is disposed on the substrate and surrounds the plurality of first pixels; and A second dam is disposed on the substrate and surrounds the plurality of second pixels. The substrate includes a plurality of cut patterns disposed in the corner portion, at least some of which are separated from each other. The plurality of second pixels and the second dam are disposed in each of the plurality of cut patterns, and Based on one surface of the substrate, the height of the upper surface of the first dam is higher than the height of the upper surface of the second dam.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first dam comprises multiple first element patterns and multiple second element patterns, wherein: The plurality of first unit patterns are arranged repeatedly and spaced apart from each other, and The plurality of second unit patterns are arranged repeatedly and spaced apart from each other.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein, The plurality of first unit patterns and the plurality of second unit patterns are arranged in parallel.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein, Each of the plurality of first unit patterns and the plurality of second unit patterns has a rectangular shape or a hexagonal shape.

5. The display device according to claim 2, further comprising a connecting dam, the connecting dam being disposed on the substrate and connecting to the second dams respectively disposed in the plurality of cut patterns.

6. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising an organic encapsulation layer, the organic encapsulation layer comprising: A first organic layer is disposed on and covers the plurality of first pixels, and A second organic layer is disposed on and covers the plurality of second pixels. The first organic layer overlaps with the first dam and the second dam.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein, The first organic layer covers the entire area of ​​the first dam and fills the area between the first dam and the second dam.

8. The display device according to claim 7, wherein, The thickness of the first organic layer is greater than the thickness of the second organic layer.

9. The display device according to claim 8, wherein, The thickness of the first organic layer is in the range of 7 μm to 9 μm, and the thickness of the second organic layer is in the range of 3 μm to 5 μm.

10. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, Each of the first dam and the second dam has an undercut shape.

11. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The first curved portion has a first curvature. The second curved portion has a second curvature, and The corner portion includes a hyperbola region that bends with the first curvature and the second curvature.

12. The display device according to claim 11, wherein, The first curvature is different from the second curvature.

13. A display device, comprising: A display panel has a front portion, a first curved portion extending from a first side of the front portion, a second curved portion extending from a second side of the front portion, and a corner portion disposed between the first curved portion and the second curved portion. The display panel includes a plurality of first pixels disposed in the front portion and a plurality of second pixels disposed in the corner portion. The display panel further includes: substrate; A first dam is disposed on the substrate and surrounds the plurality of first pixels; A second dam is disposed on the substrate and surrounds the plurality of second pixels; and An organic encapsulation layer includes a first organic layer disposed on and covering the plurality of first pixels, and a second organic layer disposed on and covering the plurality of second pixels. The substrate includes a plurality of cut patterns disposed in the corner portion, and at least some of the plurality of cut patterns are separated from each other. The plurality of second pixels and the second dam are disposed in each of the plurality of cut patterns, and The first organic layer overlaps with the first dam and the second dam.

14. The display device according to claim 13, wherein, The first organic layer covers the entire area of ​​the first dam and fills the area between the first dam and the second dam.

15. The display device according to claim 14, wherein, The thickness of the first organic layer is in the range of 7 μm to 9 μm, and the thickness of the second organic layer is in the range of 3 μm to 5 μm.

16. The display device according to claim 13, wherein, The first dam comprises multiple first element patterns and multiple second element patterns, wherein: The plurality of first unit patterns are arranged repeatedly, and The multiple second unit patterns are arranged repeatedly.

17. The display device according to claim 16, wherein, Based on one surface of the substrate, the height of the upper surface of the first dam is higher than the height of the upper surface of the second dam.

18. The display device according to claim 16, further comprising a connecting dam disposed on the substrate and connecting to the second dams respectively disposed in the plurality of cut patterns.

19. A display device, comprising: A substrate having a base and a plurality of cutout patterns protruding from the base; Multiple first pixels are disposed on the base; A plurality of second pixels are set in each of the plurality of cut patterns; The first dam is set on the base and surrounds the plurality of first pixels; as well as The second dam is disposed in each of the plurality of cut patterns and surrounds the plurality of second pixels. Wherein, based on one surface of the substrate, the height of the upper surface of the first dam is higher than the height of the upper surface of the second dam.

20. The display device according to claim 19, further comprising an organic encapsulation layer, the organic encapsulation layer comprising: A first organic layer is disposed on and covers the plurality of first pixels, and A second organic layer is disposed on and covers the plurality of second pixels. The first organic layer overlaps with the first dam and the second dam.

Images