Display panel and preparation method thereof

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a display panel and a preparation method thereof. The display panel comprises a substrate, a pixel defining layer and a plurality of light emitting devices on the substrate. The pixel defining layer comprises a plurality of through holes. Each light emitting device comprises a first electrode, a light emitting functional layer and a second electrode stacked on the substrate. The light emitting functional layer is located in the through hole. In the plane of the substrate, the orthographic projection of the first electrode is at least partially located within the orthographic projection of the corresponding through hole. In at least one through hole, a part of the edge of the first electrode is in contact with the pixel defining layer, and another part of the edge of the first electrode is spaced apart from the pixel defining layer, so that there is a groove between the first electrode and the pixel defining layer. The risk of current crosstalk between adjacent light emitting devices in the display panel is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of display technology, and more specifically, to a display panel and a method for manufacturing the same. Background Technology

[0002] Organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) are organic thin-film electroluminescent devices. They have attracted great attention and are widely used in electronic display products due to their advantages such as simple fabrication process, low cost, low power consumption, high brightness, wide viewing angle, high contrast and flexible display capability.

[0003] However, due to the limitations of their own structural design, current electronic display products are prone to current crosstalk between adjacent light-emitting devices, which can easily cause color distortion. This reduces the contrast of the displayed image and makes it difficult to meet user experience requirements. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure provides a display panel and a method for manufacturing the same. In each sub-pixel of the display panel, a portion of the edge of the first electrode of the light-emitting device is designed to be spaced apart from the pixel defining layer, thereby forming a groove between the first electrode and the pixel defining layer. When the light-emitting functional layer of the light-emitting device is manufactured, the groove forms a step that can cause the light-emitting functional layer to break, thereby reducing the risk of display defects caused by current crosstalk between adjacent light-emitting devices.

[0005] A first aspect of this disclosure provides a display panel including a substrate, a pixel defining layer on the substrate, and a plurality of light-emitting devices. The pixel defining layer includes a plurality of through-holes. Each light-emitting device includes a first electrode, a light-emitting functional layer, and a second electrode stacked on the substrate, with the light-emitting functional layer located within the through-hole. On the surface of the substrate, at least a portion of the orthographic projection of the first electrode lies within the orthographic projection of the corresponding through-hole. In at least one through-hole, a portion of the edge of the first electrode contacts the pixel defining layer, and another portion of the edge of the first electrode is spaced apart from the pixel defining layer, such that a groove exists between the first electrode and the pixel defining layer.

[0006] In the above scheme, the grooves disrupt the continuity of the light-emitting functional layer, which reduces the risk of current crosstalk between adjacent light-emitting devices and thus improves the contrast of the displayed image.

[0007] In one specific embodiment of the first aspect of this disclosure, each light-emitting functional layer includes a light-emitting layer and a first common film layer located between the light-emitting layer and the first electrode, and multiple light-emitting devices share the first common film layer. In a through-hole with a groove, the first common film layer includes a first sub-film layer located on the first electrode and a second sub-film layer located in the groove. The thickness of the first common film layer is less than or equal to the depth of the groove, such that the first sub-film layer and the second sub-film layer are disconnected from each other at the step junction between the first electrode and the groove.

[0008] In the above scheme, even if the current passes through the light-emitting layer and then enters the adjacent light-emitting device through other film layers, the current will not enter the light-emitting layer again in the adjacent light-emitting device due to the influence of the potential.

[0009] In one specific embodiment of the first aspect of this disclosure, the first common membrane layer includes at least one of a hole transport layer and a hole injection layer.

[0010] In one specific embodiment of the first aspect of this disclosure, in a through-hole with a groove, the light-emitting layer includes a first sub-light-emitting layer located on a first electrode and a second sub-light-emitting layer located in the groove. The first and second sub-light-emitting layers are discontinuous at the step junction between the first electrode and the groove, and the step between the first and second sub-light-emitting layers is substantially equal to the depth of the groove. For example, further, the light-emitting layer is configured to be formed by vapor deposition.

[0011] In the above scheme, current from the first electrode can be prevented from entering the second sub-light-emitting layer from the first sub-light-emitting layer; in addition, it is beneficial for other films formed on the light-emitting layer to break at the groove, thereby further reducing the risk of current entering adjacent light-emitting devices.

[0012] In another specific embodiment of the first aspect of this disclosure, in the through-hole with the groove, the light-emitting layer is a continuous film layer covering the first electrode and the groove. For example, the surface of the light-emitting layer facing away from the substrate is planar, and the surface of the second electrode located in the through-hole and facing away from the substrate is planar, such that the portion of the second electrode extending from the region where the groove is located to the pixel defining layer region is a continuous film layer. For example, further, the light-emitting layer is configured to be formed by inkjet printing.

[0013] In the above scheme, the light-emitting layer is a continuous solid-layer structure, which ensures that the charge carriers transported between the first electrode and the second electrode must pass through the light-emitting layer, thereby ensuring the luminous efficiency of the light-emitting device. In addition, the light-emitting layer can play a planarization role, reducing the risk of the second electrode breaking due to the setting of grooves.

[0014] In one specific embodiment of the first aspect of this disclosure, the substrate includes a planarization layer located on the side of the substrate facing the pixel defining layer. The groove includes a sub-groove and a sub-opening surrounded by a first electrode and the pixel defining layer. On the surface of the substrate, the orthographic projection of the sub-opening coincides with the orthographic projection of the sub-groove. The sub-groove is formed in the planarization layer; alternatively, the surface of the planarization layer facing the pixel defining layer is provided with a recessed structure. The recessed structure is formed by thinning the planarization layer using the first electrode as a mask, and the pixel defining layer covers a portion of the recessed structure, such that the sidewalls in the via (actually the sidewalls of the pixel defining layer used to define the via) and the sidewalls of the recessed structure together surround the sub-groove.

[0015] In the above scheme, by setting sub-grooves in the planarization layer, the design depth of the grooves can be increased, thereby ensuring the breakage of the first common film layer.

[0016] In one specific embodiment of the first aspect of this disclosure, at least three adjacent light-emitting devices emitting light of different wavelengths constitute a pixel unit. A groove is provided in the through-hole corresponding to the light-emitting device emitting the shortest wavelength light, and the groove is located between the first electrode of the light-emitting device emitting the shortest wavelength light and the adjacent light-emitting device emitting a non-shortest wavelength light; and / or, a groove is provided in the through-hole corresponding to the light-emitting device emitting a non-shortest wavelength light, and the groove is located between the first electrode of the light-emitting device emitting a non-shortest wavelength light and the adjacent light-emitting device emitting the shortest wavelength light. For example, further, the shortest wavelength light is blue light, and the non-shortest wavelength light is one or a combination of red and green light.

[0017] In the above solution, the design area occupied by the groove in the entire display panel can be reduced, ensuring the aperture ratio (the design of the groove reduces the aperture ratio) to ensure the brightness of the displayed image; in addition, the fabrication process of light-emitting devices without corresponding grooves will not be affected by the grooves, thereby simplifying the fabrication process; furthermore, the risk of large-area breakage of the second electrode caused by the grooves can be minimized.

[0018] In one specific embodiment of the first aspect of this disclosure, the orthographic projection of the groove onto the substrate surface surrounds a portion of the orthographic projection of the first electrode onto the substrate surface. This prevents the second electrode from completely breaking due to the groove, thus ensuring the continuity of the second electrode as a common electrode.

[0019] In one specific embodiment of the first aspect of this disclosure, the length of the orthographic projection of the sidewall of the groove defined by the pixel defining layer onto the substrate surface is 5% to 95% of the perimeter of the orthographic projection of the end of the via facing the substrate onto the substrate surface. Further, for example, each via is formed by a plurality of sidewalls of the pixel defining layer, wherein in the via with the groove, one sidewall of the plurality of sidewalls contacts the first electrode, and the other sidewalls of the plurality of sidewalls are spaced apart from the first electrode.

[0020] A second aspect of this disclosure provides a method for fabricating a display panel, the method comprising: providing a substrate; forming a plurality of spaced-apart first electrodes on the substrate; forming a pixel defining layer on the substrate where the first electrodes are formed, wherein a through-hole is formed in the pixel defining layer exposing at least a portion of the first electrodes; forming a light-emitting functional layer in the through-hole, wherein at least a portion of the light-emitting functional layer is formed by vapor deposition; and forming a second electrode on the light-emitting functional layer. In at least one through-hole, a portion of the edge of the first electrode contacts the pixel defining layer, and another portion of the edge of the first electrode is spaced apart from the pixel defining layer, such that a groove is formed between the first electrode and the pixel defining layer. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the planar area division of a display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 2 for Figure 1 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the structure of a sub-pixel region of the display panel.

[0023] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the structure of the sub-pixel region shown.

[0024] Figure 4 for Figure 3 The diagram shows the planar positional relationship between the pixel defining layer and the first electrode.

[0025] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the orthographic projection of the groove between the pixel defining layer and the first electrode.

[0026] Figure 6 for Figure 1 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the structure of two adjacent sub-pixel regions of the display panel.

[0027] Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the structure of a sub-pixel region of another display panel provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0028] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the structure of a sub-pixel region of another display panel provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0029] Figure 9 for Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the structure of the sub-pixel region shown.

[0030] Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the structure of two adjacent sub-pixel regions of another display panel provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0031] Figure 11 for Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the structure of the sub-pixel region shown.

[0032] Figure 12 A cross-sectional view of the structure of a sub-pixel region of another display panel provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0033] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of a sub-pixel arrangement according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the opening direction of the groove in each sub-pixel.

[0034] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of another arrangement of sub-pixels provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure, which shows the opening direction of the groove in each sub-pixel.

[0035] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of another arrangement of sub-pixels provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure, which shows the opening direction of the groove in each sub-pixel.

[0036] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of another arrangement of sub-pixels provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure, which shows the opening direction of the groove in each sub-pixel.

[0037] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of another arrangement of sub-pixels provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure, which shows the opening direction of the groove in each sub-pixel.

[0038] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of another arrangement of sub-pixels provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure, which shows the opening direction of the groove in each sub-pixel.

[0039] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of another arrangement of sub-pixels provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure, which shows the arrangement of the grooves in each sub-pixel.

[0040] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of another arrangement of sub-pixels provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure, which shows the arrangement of the grooves in each sub-pixel. Detailed Implementation

[0041] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this disclosure, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this disclosure, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0042] In the manufacturing process of display panels, the light-emitting film layer of the light-emitting devices is usually formed through processes such as vapor deposition, thus forming a monolithic structure. This means that all light-emitting devices in the display panel can share this monolithic structure, which reduces the precision requirements of the display panel manufacturing process and greatly improves its efficiency. However, when the display panel displays an image, the current driving the light-emitting devices may be transmitted between multiple devices through this shared monolithic structure. This means that crosstalk currents may exist between the multiple light-emitting devices, causing the actual brightness of the emitted light to differ from the expected brightness at the grayscale level. For example, taking adjacent first and second light-emitting devices as an example, if the first light-emitting device needs to be in a dark state (i.e., off) while the adjacent second light-emitting device needs to be in a bright state, if the current from the second light-emitting device crosstalks into the first light-emitting device, it may cause the first light-emitting device to continue emitting light, resulting in the first light-emitting device not being completely turned off. This reduces the contrast of the displayed image on the display panel.

[0043] In view of the above, at least one embodiment of this disclosure provides a display panel and a method for manufacturing the same, which can at least solve the above-mentioned problems. The display panel includes a substrate, a pixel defining layer on the substrate, and a plurality of light-emitting devices. The pixel defining layer includes a plurality of through-holes. Each light-emitting device includes a first electrode, a light-emitting functional layer, and a second electrode stacked on the substrate, with the light-emitting functional layer located within the through-hole. On the surface of the substrate, the orthographic projection of the first electrode is at least partially located within the orthographic projection of the corresponding through-hole. In at least one through-hole, a portion of the edge of the first electrode contacts the pixel defining layer, and another portion of the edge of the first electrode is spaced apart from the pixel defining layer, such that a groove exists between the first electrode and the pixel defining layer. For example, the module structure composed of the pixel defining layer and the plurality of light-emitting devices can be collectively referred to as a display functional layer. In this display panel, the groove creates a step difference at the edge of the first electrode. During the fabrication of the light-emitting functional layer, the portion of the light-emitting functional layer located on the first electrode and the portion located in the groove are misaligned due to this step difference. That is, the continuity of the film layer of the light-emitting functional layer is disrupted. As a result, when driving the light-emitting device, it is difficult for current to be transmitted through the light-emitting functional layer to the adjacent light-emitting device via the area where the groove is located. This reduces the risk of current crosstalk between adjacent light-emitting devices and thus improves the contrast of the displayed image.

[0044] It should be noted that in the area where the "groove" is located, the first electrode and the pixel defining layer actually only define the opening, but a substrate is provided on one side of the first electrode and the pixel defining layer. That is, one side of the opening is closed by the substrate, so that the opening can appear as a groove.

[0045] The following description, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, illustrates a display panel and its fabrication method according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Furthermore, in these drawings, a spatial Cartesian coordinate system is established with reference to the substrate of the display panel to aid in illustrating the positional relationships of the various structures within the display panel. In this spatial Cartesian coordinate system, the X and Y axes are parallel to the plane containing the substrate, and the Z axis is perpendicular to the plane containing the substrate. Additionally, in the embodiments of this application, terms such as "above," "below," "height," "thickness," and "depth" are defined with reference to the substrate. For example, for two objects located on the same side of the substrate, the object farther from the substrate is above the object closer to the substrate, and correspondingly, the object closer to the substrate is below the object farther from the substrate. For example, for an object located on one side of the substrate, the vertical distance from the farthest end of the object to the substrate is the height of the object, and the difference between the vertical distance from the farthest end of the object to the substrate and the vertical distance from the closest end of the object to the substrate is the depth or thickness of the object.

[0046] In one embodiment of this disclosure, such as Figures 1-5 As shown, the display panel 10 includes a display area 11 and a non-display area 12 located on at least one side of the display area 11. The display panel 10 includes a substrate 100 and a display functional layer located on the substrate 100. The display functional layer is located in the display area 11 and includes a pixel defining layer 201 and a light-emitting device 202 located on the substrate 100. The pixel defining layer 201 is configured to have a through-hole 310. The light-emitting device 202 includes a first electrode 210, a light-emitting functional layer 220, and a second electrode 230 stacked on the substrate 100. The light-emitting functional layer 220 is located in the through-hole 310. Specifically, as shown... Figure 2 and Figure 4As shown, on the surface of the substrate 100, a portion of the orthographic projection of the first electrode 210 lies within the orthographic projection of the via 310. That is, the area of ​​the first electrode 210 within the via 310 is smaller than the area of ​​the via 310, thereby causing a portion of the edge of the first electrode 210 to be spaced from the pixel defining layer 201. This allows the first electrode 210, the pixel defining layer 201, and the substrate 100 to form a groove 320. Correspondingly, a step is formed at the junction D of the first electrode 210 and the groove 320 (which can be considered as the edge of the first electrode 210 that is spaced from the pixel defining layer 201). Thus, when the light-emitting functional layer 220 is formed in the via 310, the light-emitting functional layer 220 will be misaligned at the junction D. That is, a portion of the film layer of the light-emitting functional layer 220 will be at different heights on both sides of the junction D, causing a break in that portion of the film layer.

[0047] It should be noted that, in at least one embodiment of this disclosure, the sidewall of the through hole 310 actually has a certain slope. For example, for Figures 1-5 The structure of the display panel shown is such that, in actual manufacturing, the cross-sectional shape of the through-hole 310 along the Z-axis is approximately an inverted trapezoid, with the top edge of the trapezoid facing the substrate 100. For example, the angle between the top edge and the side edge of the inverted trapezoid can range from 120° to 150°, meaning the sidewall slope of the through-hole 310 is 30° to 80°. Further examples include sidewall slopes of 35°, 45°, 55°, 65°, and 75°. This ensures that the second electrode 230 is less prone to breakage when extending from the through-hole 310 to the pixel defining layer 201. It also ensures the continuity of the light-emitting functional layer 220 on the sidewall of the through-hole 310, preventing current crosstalk between adjacent light-emitting devices 202 in the absence of a recess 320. It should be noted that the slope range of the sidewall of the through-hole 310 can be designed according to actual manufacturing needs and is not limited to the above-mentioned numerical range.

[0048] It should be noted that in the field of display technology, vias in the pixel defining layer are typically used to define the boundaries of sub-pixels, i.e., to define the size of the pixel opening. Therefore, even if the pixel defining layer is located above the anode (the first electrode mentioned above) of the light-emitting device, the anode may not be entirely located within the via for the sake of alignment accuracy, etc., and the cathode (the second electrode mentioned above) of the light-emitting device is usually a solid layer structure, i.e., the cathode is not only located in the via but also covers the pixel defining layer. Thus, the main body of the light-emitting device is located in the via, and part of its structure extends outside the via. However, in the case where the distribution area of ​​the light-emitting device is defined as being located in the pixel opening in this field, the light-emitting device can also be considered to be located in the via.

[0049] In embodiments of this disclosure, such as Figure 2As shown, the substrate 100 may include a substrate 110 and a driving circuit layer 120. The driving circuit layer 120 may include a pixel driving circuit. In each sub-pixel corresponding to the light-emitting device 202, the pixel driving circuit may include multiple transistors. Figure 2 The TFTs (TFTs), capacitors, etc., are formed in various forms, such as 2T1C (i.e., 2 transistors (T) and 1 capacitor (C)), 3T1C, or 7T1C. The pixel driving circuit is connected to the light-emitting device 202 to control the switching state and brightness of the light-emitting device 202.

[0050] The light-emitting functional layer in a light-emitting device typically includes a light-emitting layer and several other auxiliary functional layers. In the manufacturing process of display panels, for reasons such as alignment accuracy control, process cost, and efficiency, some auxiliary functional layers of different light-emitting devices share a common layer. This common auxiliary functional layer can be called a shared layer. When driving a light-emitting device, current may flow along this shared layer from one light-emitting device to another adjacent light-emitting device. In a light-emitting device, charge carriers (holes and electrons) are used to excite light in the light-emitting layer. The anode of the light-emitting device (e.g., the first electrode mentioned above) is typically set to a high potential, and the cathode (e.g., the second electrode mentioned above) is typically set to a low potential; that is, current is maintained from the anode to the cathode in each light-emitting device. Therefore, if the continuity of the layers preceding the light-emitting layer is disrupted in adjacent light-emitting devices, even if current crosstalk occurs between adjacent light-emitting devices, the crosstalk current will enter the cathode of the adjacent light-emitting device and is unlikely to pass through the light-emitting layer again, thus reducing the risk of image contrast reduction caused by current crosstalk.

[0051] In a display panel provided in at least one embodiment of this disclosure, each light-emitting functional layer includes a light-emitting layer and a first common film layer located between the light-emitting layer and a first electrode, and multiple light-emitting devices share the first common film layer. In a through-hole with a groove, the first common film layer includes a first sub-film layer located on the first electrode and a second sub-film layer located in the groove. The thickness of the first common film layer is less than or equal to the depth of the groove, such that the first sub-film layer and the second sub-film layer are disconnected from each other at the step junction between the first electrode and the groove. When the first common film layer between the light-emitting layer and the first electrode is disconnected at the junction of the groove and the first electrode, even if current passes through the light-emitting layer and then through other film layers into an adjacent light-emitting device, the current will not re-enter the light-emitting layer in that adjacent light-emitting device due to potential influence; that is, the crosstalk current will not contribute to the light emission of the adjacent light-emitting device. For example, as shown... Figure 1-5As shown, the light-emitting functional layer 220 includes a first common film layer 221 located between the light-emitting layer 222 and the first electrode 210, and a second common film layer 223 located between the light-emitting layer 222 and the second electrode 230. The depth of the groove 320 is greater than the thickness of the first common film layer 221. Thus, when the first common film layer 221 is deposited, the first common film layer 221 will be broken at the junction D. That is, the portion of the first common film layer 221 located in the groove 320 will not participate in the light emission of the light-emitting device.

[0052] like Figure 1-5 The principle by which the display panel 10 shown reduces the risk of current crosstalk between the light-emitting devices 202 can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 6 The example shown. Figure 6 As shown, two light-emitting devices 202a and 202b are adjacent to each other. When light-emitting device 202a is excited, the current from the first electrode 210a passes sequentially through the first common film layer 221a, the light-emitting layer 222a, and the second common film layer 223a. Because the first common film layer 221a of light-emitting device 202a is broken at the junction D, and the groove (or junction D) is located between the first electrode 210a and light-emitting device 202b, the current from the first electrode 210a will not enter light-emitting device 202b through the first common film layer 221a. Furthermore, even if the current in light-emitting device 202a enters light-emitting device 202b through the second common film layer 223a, the second electrode, etc., because the potentials of the first electrodes 210a and 210b are approximately equal (e.g., positive electrodes), the current from light-emitting device 202a will enter the second common film layer 223b and will not enter the first common film layer 221a again. Figure 6 The specific structures of the light-emitting devices 202a and 202b shown are as follows: Figure 2 The structure of the light-emitting device 202 shown is the same, and will not be described in detail here.

[0053] The light-emitting functional layer of a light-emitting device may include a hole injection layer and a hole transport layer located between the anode and the light-emitting layer, and an electron injection layer and an electron transport layer located between the cathode and the light-emitting layer. For example, the light-emitting functional layer may also include an electron blocking layer located between the anode and the light-emitting layer, and a hole blocking layer located between the cathode and the light-emitting layer. Depending on different process requirements, the hole injection layer, hole transport layer, electron blocking layer, electron injection layer, and electron transport layer may be selected as common film layers for various light-emitting devices. For example, in a display panel provided in at least one embodiment of this disclosure, the first common film layer includes at least one of a hole transport layer and a hole injection layer, and the second common film layer may include at least one of a hole injection layer and a hole transport layer.

[0054] In the embodiments of this disclosure, when the light-emitting layer is formed in the through-hole, the preparation method of the light-emitting layer is not further limited. For example, in some process requirements, the light-emitting layer can be prepared by vapor deposition, while in other process requirements, the light-emitting layer can be prepared by inkjet printing.

[0055] For example, in some embodiments of the display panel provided in this disclosure, in a through-hole with a groove, the light-emitting layer includes a first sub-light-emitting layer located on a first electrode and a second sub-light-emitting layer located in the groove. The first and second sub-light-emitting layers are disconnected from each other at the step junction between the first electrode and the groove, and the step junction between the first and second sub-light-emitting layers is substantially equal to the depth of the groove. Thus, the continuity of the light-emitting layer at the junction of the first electrode and the groove is disrupted, preventing current from the first electrode from entering the second sub-light-emitting layer from the first sub-light-emitting layer. Furthermore, after the light-emitting layer is formed, the step junction between the first and second sub-light-emitting layers can still be substantially equal to the depth of the groove, thereby facilitating the breakage of other film layers formed on the light-emitting layer at the groove, further reducing the risk of current entering other film layers from the second sub-light-emitting layer and subsequently entering adjacent light-emitting devices. See again for examples. Figure 2 The height difference between the first sub-light-emitting layer located above the first electrode 210 and the second sub-light-emitting layer located in the groove 320 is approximately equal to the depth of the groove 320. Similarly, the height difference between the portion of the second common film layer 223 located above the first electrode 210 and the portion located in the groove 320 is also approximately equal to the depth of the groove 320. Likewise, the height difference between the portion of the second electrode 230 located above the first electrode 210 and the portion located in the groove 320 is also approximately equal to the depth of the groove 320. Thus, the second common film layer 223 and the second electrode 230 are prone to breakage at the junction D, thereby reducing the risk of current crosstalk between adjacent light-emitting devices.

[0056] For example, in at least one embodiment of this disclosure, such as Figure 2 The light-emitting layer 222 shown can be formed by vapor deposition, so that the thickness of the first sub-light-emitting layer and the second sub-light-emitting layer are substantially equal, so as to ensure that the step difference between the two and the depth of the groove 320 are substantially equal, that is, this can maintain the effect of the groove 320 to cause the film layer to break.

[0057] For example, in some other embodiments of the display panel provided in this disclosure, in the through-hole with the groove, the light-emitting layer is a continuous film layer covering the first electrode and the groove. The surface of the light-emitting layer facing away from the substrate is planar, and the surface of the second electrode located in the through-hole and facing away from the substrate is planar, so that the portion of the second electrode extending from the region where the groove is located to the pixel defining layer region is a continuous film layer. For example, further, the light-emitting layer is configured to be formed by inkjet printing. The light-emitting layer is a continuous monolithic structure. At the junction of the groove and the first electrode, the light-emitting layer can prevent the film layers on both sides from contacting each other, so that the charge carriers transported between the first electrode and the second electrode must pass through the light-emitting layer, thereby ensuring the luminous efficiency of the light-emitting device; in addition, the light-emitting layer can play a planarization role, reducing the risk of the second electrode breaking due to the groove. For example, as shown in the figure... Figure 7 As shown, the surface of the light-emitting layer 222c facing away from the substrate 100c is planar. That is, the surface of the portion of the light-emitting layer 222c located on the first electrode 210c and the surface of the portion located in the groove 320c are at approximately the same height, thus achieving coplanarity. Similarly, the surface of the portion of the second common film layer 223c located in the through-hole 310 and on the light-emitting layer 222c facing away from the substrate 100c is planar. Correspondingly, the surface of the second electrode 230c located in the through-hole 310 and on the second common film layer 223c is also planar. The surface of the part facing away from the substrate 100c is flat. That is, the step difference between the part of the second electrode 230c located on the pixel defining layer 201c and the part located on the first electrode 210c, and the step difference between the part of the second electrode 230c located on the pixel defining layer 201c and the part located on the groove 320c are basically equal. In this way, the setting of the groove 320c will not cause the second electrode 230c to break when it extends from the through hole 310c to the pixel defining layer 201c.

[0058] For example, in some embodiments of this disclosure, where the light-emitting layer is a continuous film covering the first electrode and the groove, and its surface facing away from the substrate is planar, the light-emitting layer can be configured to be formed by inkjet printing. For example, as... Figure 7 As shown, in the process of preparing the light-emitting functional layer 220c of the light-emitting device 202c, a first common film layer 221c can be prepared in the through hole 310c by means of, for example, vapor deposition. Then, a solution containing an excitation material is dropped into the through hole 310c (the process can be inkjet printing). After the solution is evaporated, a light-emitting layer 222c is formed. Then, a second common film layer 223c is formed on the light-emitting layer 222c by means of vapor deposition or inkjet printing. Finally, a second electrode 230c is formed on the second common film layer 223c by means of electroplating, magnetron sputtering, etc.

[0059] As can be seen from the description of the above embodiments of this disclosure, the design thickness of the groove affects its disconnection effect on the first common film layer, thereby affecting the risk of current crosstalk between adjacent light-emitting devices. Therefore, in some embodiments of this disclosure, the design thickness of the groove can be increased by increasing the design thickness of the first electrode. For example, the first electrode can be designed as a multilayer composite film, such as a composite film structure composed of titanium-aluminum-titanium three-layer metal, ITO-metal (titanium, silver, etc.)-ITO (indium tin oxide) three-layer metal and metal oxide. This structure will reduce the light transmittance of the first electrode or make the first electrode opaque and become a reflective electrode, thereby making the display panel more suitable for designing a top-emitting mode. Alternatively, in other embodiments of this disclosure, the first electrode can be designed as a single-layer structure, thereby having a smaller design thickness. In addition, the groove can be designed to extend into the substrate, thereby increasing the design depth of the groove. In this way, the materials and manufacturing process for the first electrode can be saved to reduce costs. It can also make the stress generated by the first electrode relatively small when bent, thus making it more suitable for the field of flexible display. In addition, the first electrode can be designed to have high light transmittance, thereby enabling the display panel to be designed with a bottom-emitting mode. Of course, the display panel with the first electrode can also be designed with a top-emitting mode. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the groove can be designed using the two methods described above: increasing the design thickness of the first electrode and extending the groove toward the substrate to increase the design depth of the groove.

[0060] The structure of a display panel provided in at least one embodiment of this disclosure will be described below, taking the example of a groove design extending towards the substrate.

[0061] For example, in some embodiments of this disclosure, the substrate includes a planarization layer located on the side of the substrate facing the pixel defining layer. The groove includes a sub-groove and a sub-opening surrounded by the first electrode and the pixel defining layer. On the surface where the substrate is located, the orthographic projection of the sub-opening coincides with the orthographic projection of the sub-groove, and the sub-groove is formed in the planarization layer. By providing a sub-groove in the planarization layer, the design depth of the groove can be increased, thereby ensuring the breakage of the first common film layer. For example, as... Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, the substrate 100 includes a planarization layer 121, which can planarize the surface of the substrate 100. In the via 310d, the first electrode 210d and the pixel defining layer 201d form a sub-opening 321d of the groove 320d. A sub-groove 322d is provided on the surface of the planarization layer 121. The sub-groove 322d and the sub-opening 321d are positioned correspondingly; for example, the orthographic projection of the sub-opening 321d onto the surface of the substrate 100 and the orthographic projection of the sub-groove 322d onto the surface of the substrate 100 substantially coincide. Thus, the depth of the groove 320d is the sum of the depth of the sub-groove 322d and the thickness of the sub-opening 321d, thereby ensuring that the groove 320d has a large designed thickness so that the first common film layer 221d in the light-emitting functional layer 220d breaks at the junction D. It should be noted that the arrangement of the light-emitting layer 222d, the second common film layer 223d, and the second electrode 230d in the light-emitting functional layer 220d can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 2 and Figure 7 The two design structures shown are not described in detail here.

[0062] For example, in some embodiments of this disclosure, the substrate includes a planarization layer located on the side of the substrate facing the pixel defining layer. The groove includes a sub-groove and a sub-opening surrounded by a first electrode and the pixel defining layer. On the surface of the substrate, the orthographic projection of the sub-opening coincides with the orthographic projection of the sub-groove. A recessed structure is provided on the surface of the planarization layer facing the pixel defining layer. The recessed structure is formed by thinning the planarization layer using the first electrode as a mask, and the pixel defining layer covers a portion of the recessed structure, such that the sidewall of the pixel defining layer located in the via (actually the sidewall of the pixel defining layer used to define the via) and the sidewall of the recessed structure together surround the sub-groove. For example, as shown... Figure 10 and Figure 11As shown, using the first electrode as a mask, the planarization layer 121e is etched and thinned to form a recessed structure 330 on the surface of the planarization layer 121e facing the pixel defining layer 201e. The pixel defining layer 201e is located in the recessed structure 330, and the area of ​​the pixel defining layer 201e is smaller than the area of ​​the recessed structure 330. Thus, the pixel defining layer 201e defines a sub-groove in the recessed structure 330. The area where the sub-groove is located can be understood as the overlapping area of ​​the recessed structure 330 and the via 310e. The sidewall of the sub-groove can be composed of the sidewall of the planarization layer 121e used to define the recessed structure 330 and the sidewall of the pixel defining layer 201e used to define the via 310e. The pixel defining layer 201e and the first electrode define a sub-opening. The positions of the sub-groove and the sub-opening correspond; for example, the orthographic projection of the sub-opening on the substrate surface and the orthographic projection of the sub-groove on the substrate surface substantially coincide. Thus, the depth of the groove 320e is the sum of the depth of the sub-groove and the thickness of the sub-opening, thereby ensuring that the groove 320e has a large design thickness so that the first common film layer in the light-emitting functional layer breaks at the junction of the first electrode and the groove.

[0063] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this disclosure, the planarization layer can be designed from the passivation layer of the substrate, as detailed in [reference needed]. Figure 10 The planarization layer 121e shown is actually a passivation layer, which facilitates the thinner design of the display panel; alternatively, the planarization layer can be designed as an independent film layer to prevent the recessed design from damaging the structure in the substrate (such as TFTs in the driving circuit layer), for example, by covering the passivation layer of the substrate with a planarization layer, as detailed in [reference needed]. Figure 12 The substrate includes a passivation layer 122f and a planarization layer 121f. The planarization layer 121f is located between the passivation layer 122f and the pixel defining layer 201d (or the first electrode 210d). Sub-grooves of the groove 320d are formed in the planarization layer 121f. For example, the sub-grooves penetrate the planarization layer 121f.

[0064] For example, the planarization layer can be a film layer composed of inorganic materials such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride. In addition to its planarization function, it also has high density to provide good insulation and protect the devices on the substrate. Alternatively, when the planarization layer is an independent film layer (e.g., the substrate includes a planarization layer and a passivation layer), the planarization layer can be made of organic polymer materials such as polyimide, thus possessing high flexibility to make the display panel more suitable for flexible displays. Or, in actual processes, most of the film layers on the substrate (e.g., passivation layer, interlayer dielectric layer, etc.) are formed of inorganic materials, while the pixel boundary layer is usually formed of organic materials. Since interface separation is prone to occur between inorganic and organic material film layers, the planarization layer can be a composite film layer formed by doping the aforementioned organic and inorganic materials. This allows it to achieve the above effects while reducing the risk of film separation on the upper and lower sides of the planarization layer, thereby improving the strength of the display panel.

[0065] In the display panel provided in the embodiments of this disclosure, as long as a groove is provided in the through hole, the risk of current crosstalk between adjacent light-emitting devices can be reduced. Furthermore, the planar shape of the groove can be designed according to the actual process requirements and is not limited here. Below, several planar shapes of the groove are described in several embodiments.

[0066] For example, in some embodiments of this disclosure, in a through hole with grooves, the orthographic projection of the grooves onto the surface of the substrate is a scattered distribution.

[0067] For example, in other embodiments of this disclosure, in a through hole with a groove, the orthographic projection of the groove onto the surface of the substrate is a plurality of spaced line segments.

[0068] For example, in other embodiments of this disclosure, in a through hole with a groove, the orthographic projection of the groove onto the substrate surface surrounds a portion of the orthographic projection of the first electrode onto the substrate surface, such that the orthographic projection of the groove onto the substrate surface is a non-closed ring, specifically as follows: Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown. In this way, the second electrode in the through-hole can be prevented from breaking, while allowing for a larger design length of the groove, thereby minimizing the risk of current crosstalk between adjacent light-emitting devices.

[0069] It should be noted that in the embodiments of this disclosure, the orthographic projection of the groove is a non-closed ring, which can be understood as the overall length of the groove being a non-closed ring. In this case, the width of the groove can be ignored. For example, on the surface where the substrate is located, the edge of the orthographic projection of the groove is actually defined by the first electrode and the pixel defining layer. The part of the edge of the orthographic projection of the groove defined by the first electrode is a non-closed ring, and the part of the edge of the orthographic projection of the groove defined by the pixel defining layer is also a non-closed ring.

[0070] Furthermore, in the embodiments of this disclosure, "non-closed ring" is a shape obtained by dividing "closed ring", that is, cutting any length of the closed ring so that the remaining part has a gap (e.g., the opening described below) that connects the inside and outside, and the shape of the remaining part is a non-closed ring.

[0071] In the display panel provided in at least one embodiment of this disclosure, the length of the groove is 5% to 95% of the edge length of the through-hole, for example, further 15%, 25%, 35%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 65%, 75%, 85%, etc. The length of the groove can be the length of the orthographic projection of the sidewall defined by the pixel defining layer onto the substrate surface. The edge length of the through-hole can be the perimeter of the outer edge of the orthographic projection of the side opening of the through-hole facing the substrate (the side opening of the through-hole facing the substrate) onto the substrate surface. For example, neglecting the slope of the through-hole sidewall (equivalent to the sidewall surface of the channel being perpendicular to the substrate surface), the perimeter of the outer edge of the orthographic projection of the through-hole onto the substrate surface is the edge length of the through-hole. For example, further, each through-hole is formed by a plurality of sidewalls of the pixel defining layer. In the through-hole with the groove, one sidewall of the plurality of sidewalls contacts the first electrode, and the other sidewalls of the plurality of sidewalls are spaced apart from the first electrode. For example, the planar shape of the through-hole (e.g., the shape of its outer edge projected onto the plane where the substrate is located) is a polygon with N sides, where grooves are provided on the N-1 sides of the polygon, and the side without grooves is used to ensure the continuity of the second electrode. For example, as... Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the planar shape of the first electrode 210 and the through hole is rectangular, and the groove surrounds the three sides of the first electrode 210. That is, the orthographic projections of the first electrode 210 and the through hole on the surface of the substrate are both rectangular, while the orthographic projection 3201 of the groove on the surface of the substrate surrounds the three sides of the orthographic projection of the first electrode 210 on the surface of the substrate.

[0072] The display panel comprises multiple sub-pixels, each containing a light-emitting device. There are various arrangements of sub-pixels. When the groove shape is not a closed ring, the opening orientation of the groove in each sub-pixel can be designed according to actual needs to reduce the risk of current crosstalk between light-emitting devices in adjacent sub-pixels.

[0073] In embodiments of this disclosure, the orientation of the groove opening can be seen as follows: Figure 5 The direction S shown is specifically: a non-closed annular groove may include an opening and a bottom corresponding to the opening, and the direction S from the bottom to the opening is the opening orientation of the groove.

[0074] The following describes the design of the opening orientation of the grooves in each sub-pixel of the display panel through several specific embodiments.

[0075] For example, in some embodiments of the display panel provided in this disclosure, the openings of the non-closed annular orthographic projections of the recesses of each light-emitting device on the surface of the substrate face the same direction. For example, as... Figure 13 As shown, a pixel unit P includes three adjacent sub-pixels that emit light of different wavelengths. In each pixel unit, the light-emitting devices of the three sub-pixels R, G, and B can emit red, green, and blue light, respectively. The openings of the grooves in each sub-pixel all face the same direction (positive X-axis in the figure). In this way, the openings of the grooves in all sub-pixels will not be opposite each other, thus avoiding current crosstalk between adjacent light-emitting devices.

[0076] It should be noted that in the embodiments disclosed herein, the color of the light emitted by the light-emitting device is not limited. For example, it may be set to emit white light, or it may be set to emit other colors of light such as red, green, blue or yellow. In addition, each pixel unit may include three, four or more light-emitting devices that emit different colors of light.

[0077] For example, in some other embodiments of the display panel provided in this disclosure, at least three adjacent light-emitting devices that emit light of different wavelengths constitute a pixel unit. In each pixel unit, the opening of the non-closed annular orthographic projection of the groove of the light-emitting device emitting non-shortest wavelength light onto the substrate surface corresponds to the edge of the non-closed annular orthographic projection of the groove of the light-emitting device emitting the shortest wavelength light onto the substrate surface. The openings of the non-closed annular orthographic projections of the grooves of at least two of the light-emitting devices emitting non-shortest wavelength light onto the substrate surface are opposite each other. For example, as... Figure 14As shown, each pixel unit P1 and P2 includes three adjacent sub-pixels that emit light of different wavelengths. Within each pixel unit, the light-emitting devices of the three sub-pixels R, G, and B can emit red, green, and blue light, respectively. In each pixel unit P1 and P2, the openings of the grooves in sub-pixels R and G are opposite to each other, but the opening of the groove in each of sub-pixels R and G is not opposite to the opening of the groove in sub-pixel B. During the driving process of the display panel, the driving voltage of the light-emitting device emitting the shortest wavelength light is relatively high, which easily leads to current crosstalk with adjacent light-emitting devices. Therefore, when driving sub-pixel B, the current of the light-emitting device in sub-pixel B is unlikely to crosstalk to sub-pixels R and G. Furthermore, the driving voltages of the light-emitting devices in sub-pixels R and G are relatively small or approximately equal, so even if the openings of the grooves in sub-pixels R and G are opposite to each other, current crosstalk will not occur in the light-emitting devices of sub-pixels R and G.

[0078] In some other embodiments of the display panel provided in this disclosure, at least three adjacent light-emitting devices that emit light of different wavelengths constitute a pixel unit. The opening of the non-closed annular orthographic projection of the groove of the adjacent light-emitting device emitting the shortest wavelength light in at least one pixel unit is opposite to the opening of the non-closed annular orthographic projection of the groove of the adjacent light-emitting device emitting the shortest wavelength light in at least one adjacent pixel unit on the surface of the substrate. For example, as... Figure 15 As shown, in any pixel unit P3 or P4, the openings of the grooves of sub-pixels R and G are not opposite to the opening of the groove of sub-pixel B. Furthermore, the opening of the groove of sub-pixel B in pixel unit P3 is opposite to the opening of the groove of sub-pixel B in pixel unit P4. During the driving process of the display panel, the driving voltages of light-emitting devices emitting light of the same wavelength (same color) are approximately equal. Even if they are adjacent to each other, it is difficult for current crosstalk to occur when they are driven. Thus, no current crosstalk occurs between the light-emitting devices of sub-pixel B in pixel unit P3 and the light-emitting devices of sub-pixel B in pixel unit P4. Furthermore, the groove design may disrupt the continuity of the second electrode, while... Figure 15 In the illustrated embodiment, the openings of the grooves of sub-pixel B in pixel unit P3 and sub-pixel B in pixel unit P4 are opposite to each other, so that the continuity of the second electrode is not disrupted by the grooves as it extends from sub-pixel B in pixel unit P3 to sub-pixel B in pixel unit P4. Figure 14 Compared to the structure shown, this reduces the risk of increased power consumption or even display defects due to disruption of the second electrode continuity. It should be noted that in these embodiments, within the same pixel unit, the openings of the recesses of the light-emitting devices emitting non-shortest wavelength light can be opposite each other, specifically as follows: Figure 15 The situation shown; or, the openings of the recesses in a light-emitting device that emits light of a non-shortest wavelength may not be opposite, as detailed below. Figure 16 The situation shown; or, the groove is not provided between the light-emitting devices that emit non-shortest wavelength light, but is only provided between the light-emitting devices that emit the shortest wavelength light and the light-emitting devices that emit non-shortest wavelength light.

[0079] For example, in some other embodiments of the display panel provided in this disclosure, at least three adjacent light-emitting devices that emit light of different wavelengths constitute a pixel unit. The opening of the non-closed annular orthographic projection of the groove of any light-emitting device onto the substrate surface corresponds to the edge of the non-closed annular orthographic projection of the groove of the adjacent other light-emitting devices onto the substrate surface, and the openings of the non-closed annular orthographic projections of the grooves in each pixel unit face different directions from each other. For example, as... Figure 16 As shown, the groove openings in each sub-pixel of pixel unit P5 face different directions. Furthermore, the groove openings in all sub-pixels are not opposite each other. This avoids current crosstalk between adjacent light-emitting devices.

[0080] It should be noted that in actual manufacturing processes, there can be multiple arrangements of sub-pixels. Thus, in the embodiments of this disclosure, for example... Figures 13-15 The arrangement of the grooves shown can be adjusted according to the specific arrangement of the selected sub-pixels. For example, when the openings of the grooves in any adjacent sub-pixels in the display panel are not opposite, the array arrangement of the sub-pixels can be as follows: Figure 13 The diagram shows multiple rows and columns (rows and columns can be perpendicular or intersecting each other). Figure 13 The scenario shown is the latter; or, the array arrangement of subpixels can be presented as follows: Figure 16 The diagram shows a multi-column arrangement, where sub-pixels B are arranged individually in multiple columns, while sub-pixels R and G are arranged together in multiple columns. The columns formed by sub-pixels R and G alternate with the columns formed by sub-pixels B. Within each column formed by sub-pixels R and G, sub-pixels R and G are arranged alternately. Thus, each sub-pixel B and its adjacent sub-pixels R and G in adjacent columns can form a pixel unit P5. For example, the openings of the grooves in each sub-pixel B face the same direction and are parallel to the column direction. The openings of the grooves in sub-pixels R and G located in the same column face opposite directions and are perpendicular to the column direction. Therefore, the openings of the grooves of any adjacent sub-pixels are not opposite each other.

[0081] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this disclosure, grooves can be designed for all sub-pixels, or grooves can be designed separately for specific sub-pixels that are prone to current crosstalk, so as to reduce the adverse effects that setting grooves may have on the structure of the display panel.

[0082] For example, in some other embodiments of the display panel provided in this disclosure, at least three adjacent light-emitting devices that emit light of different wavelengths constitute a pixel unit. The orthographic projection of the groove onto the substrate surface is a non-closed ring. Grooves are provided only in the through-holes corresponding to the light-emitting devices that emit light of non-shortest wavelengths. In each pixel unit, the openings of the grooves of adjacent light-emitting devices that emit light of non-shortest wavelengths are opposite to each other. Exemplarily, it is possible to... Figure 15 The structural modifications shown achieve the following: Figure 17 The structure shown is as follows: Figure 17 As shown, in each pixel unit P3 and P4, sub-pixels R and G have grooves, while sub-pixel B does not. The openings of the grooves in sub-pixels R and G are opposite to each other, thus not facing sub-pixel B. This reduces the design area of ​​the grooves, lowering the risk of the second electrode breaking near the groove area. Furthermore, this design still prevents current from sub-pixel B from flowing to sub-pixels R and G, reducing the magnitude of crosstalk current entering sub-pixels R and G, thereby mitigating the adverse effects of current crosstalk.

[0083] For example, in the display panel provided in some embodiments of this disclosure, at least three adjacent light-emitting devices that emit light of different wavelengths constitute a pixel unit. The orthographic projection of the groove onto the substrate surface is a non-closed ring. The groove is provided only in the through-hole corresponding to the light-emitting device emitting the shortest wavelength light, and the opening of the groove of the light-emitting device emitting the shortest wavelength light is opposite to the opening of the groove of at least one adjacent light-emitting device emitting the shortest wavelength light. For example, it is possible to... Figure 15 The structural modifications shown achieve the following: Figure 18 The structure shown is as follows: Figure 18 As shown, in each pixel unit P3 and P4, sub-pixels R and G do not have grooves, while sub-pixel B has a groove. The opening of the groove in sub-pixel B in pixel unit P3 and the opening of the groove in the adjacent pixel unit P4 are opposite to each other, so that the opening of the groove in sub-pixel B in pixel units P3 and P4 does not face sub-pixels R and G. This reduces the design area of ​​the groove, thereby reducing the risk of the second electrode breaking near the groove area. Furthermore, this design still prevents current from sub-pixel B from being transmitted to sub-pixels R and G, reducing the magnitude of crosstalk current entering sub-pixels R and G, and thus mitigating the adverse effects of current crosstalk.

[0084] In some other embodiments of the display panel provided in this disclosure, at least three adjacent light-emitting devices emitting light of different wavelengths constitute a pixel unit. The orthographic projection of the groove onto the substrate surface is a straight line segment, and at least one groove is provided in the through-hole corresponding to the light-emitting device emitting the shortest wavelength light. The groove is located between the first electrode of the light-emitting device emitting the shortest wavelength light and the adjacent light-emitting device emitting a non-shortest wavelength light. This allows for the selection of groove design only for areas where light-emitting devices prone to crosstalk current or affected by crosstalk current are located, thereby reducing the design area occupied by the groove in the entire display panel and ensuring the aperture ratio (the groove design reduces the aperture ratio) to guarantee the brightness of the displayed image. Furthermore, the light-emitting layers of light-emitting devices emitting different wavelengths are typically obtained in different fabrication processes; thus, the fabrication process of light-emitting devices without corresponding grooves is not affected by the grooves, thereby simplifying the fabrication process. Additionally, the risk of large-area breakage of the second electrode caused by the groove can be minimized. For example, as... Figure 19 As shown, only sub-pixel B has a groove, while sub-pixels R and G do not. Furthermore, in each pixel unit P6 and P7, each of sub-pixels R and G is separated from the first electrode (e.g., anode) of the light-emitting device of sub-pixel B by a groove; that is, sub-pixel B has a groove in the direction facing sub-pixels R and G. Additionally, each of sub-pixels R and G in pixel unit P6 is separated from the first electrode (e.g., anode) of the light-emitting device of sub-pixel B in the adjacent pixel unit P7 by a groove. This prevents current from sub-pixel B from flowing to sub-pixels R and G, reducing the magnitude of crosstalk current entering sub-pixels R and G, thereby mitigating the adverse effects of current crosstalk.

[0085] In some other embodiments of the display panel provided in this disclosure, at least three adjacent light-emitting devices emitting light of different wavelengths constitute a pixel unit. The orthographic projection of the groove onto the substrate surface is a straight line segment. At least one groove is provided in the through-hole corresponding to the light-emitting device emitting light of a non-shortest wavelength, and the groove is located between the first electrode of the light-emitting device emitting light of a non-shortest wavelength and the adjacent light-emitting device emitting light of the shortest wavelength. This allows for the selection of groove design only for areas where light-emitting devices prone to crosstalk current or affected by crosstalk current are located, thereby reducing the design area occupied by the groove in the entire display panel and ensuring the aperture ratio (the groove design reduces the aperture ratio) to guarantee the brightness of the displayed image. Furthermore, the light-emitting layers of light-emitting devices emitting light of different wavelengths are typically obtained in different fabrication processes. Thus, the fabrication process of light-emitting devices without corresponding grooves is not affected by the grooves, thereby simplifying the fabrication process. Additionally, the risk of large-area breakage of the second electrode caused by the groove can be minimized. For example, as... Figure 20 As shown, sub-pixel B has no groove, while sub-pixels R and G both have grooves. Furthermore, in each pixel unit P8 and P9, either the first electrode of the light-emitting device of sub-pixel R or the first electrode of the light-emitting device of sub-pixel G is separated from sub-pixel B by a groove; that is, either sub-pixel R or sub-pixel G has a groove in the direction facing sub-pixel B. Additionally, either the first electrode of the light-emitting device of sub-pixel R or the first electrode of the light-emitting device of sub-pixel G in pixel unit P8 is separated from sub-pixel B in the adjacent pixel unit P9 by a groove. This prevents current leaking from sub-pixel B from entering sub-pixels R and G, reducing the magnitude of crosstalk current entering sub-pixels R and G, thereby mitigating the adverse effects of current crosstalk.

[0086] For example, the display panel provided in at least one embodiment of this disclosure may further include an encapsulation layer located on the side of the display array layer away from the substrate, the encapsulation layer covering the display device to at least protect the display device; or the display panel may further include an encapsulation cover plate opposite to the display panel, the periphery of the box formed by the two being filled with sealing glue to achieve encapsulation.

[0087] For example, the display panel provided in at least one embodiment of this disclosure may further include a touch structure to provide touch functionality. For example, the touch structure may be a touch panel or a touch layer. The touch panel may be disposed on the display panel by bonding, for example, as the light-emitting side of the display panel; the touch layer may be directly fabricated on the encapsulation layer or encapsulation cover of the display panel to facilitate the thinner and lighter design of the display panel.

[0088] For example, the display panel in the embodiments of this disclosure can be any product or component with display function, such as a television, digital camera, mobile phone, watch, tablet computer, laptop computer, or navigator.

[0089] It should be noted that, for clarity, the entire structure of the display panel described above is not presented. To achieve the necessary functions of the display panel, those skilled in the art can configure other structures according to specific application scenarios, and the embodiments disclosed herein do not impose any limitations on this.

[0090] At least one embodiment of this disclosure provides a method for fabricating a display panel, the method comprising: providing a substrate; forming a plurality of spaced-apart first electrodes on the substrate; forming a pixel defining layer on the substrate where the first electrodes are formed, wherein a through-hole is formed in the pixel defining layer exposing at least a portion of the first electrodes; forming a light-emitting functional layer in the through-hole, wherein at least a portion of the light-emitting functional layer is formed by vapor deposition; and forming a second electrode on the light-emitting functional layer. In at least one through-hole, a portion of the edge of the first electrode contacts the pixel defining layer, and another portion of the edge of the first electrode is spaced apart from the pixel defining layer, such that a groove is formed between the first electrode and the pixel defining layer. In the display panel obtained by this fabrication method, the groove creates a step at the edge of the first electrode. During the fabrication of the light-emitting functional layer, the portion of the light-emitting functional layer located on the first electrode and the portion located in the groove are misaligned due to this step, i.e., the film continuity of the light-emitting functional layer is disrupted. Thus, when driving light-emitting devices, current is difficult to transmit through the light-emitting functional layer to adjacent light-emitting devices via the area where the groove is located. This reduces the risk of current crosstalk between adjacent light-emitting devices, thereby improving the contrast of the displayed image. The structure of the display panel obtained by this preparation method can be seen in the following figure. Figures 1-12 The relevant descriptions in the illustrated embodiments will not be repeated here.

[0091] In the method for fabricating a display panel provided in some embodiments of this disclosure, the substrate includes a planarization layer formed on the side of the substrate facing the pixel defining layer. The groove includes a sub-groove and a sub-opening surrounded by a first electrode and the pixel defining layer. On the surface of the substrate, the orthographic projection of the sub-opening coincides with the orthographic projection of the sub-groove. The sub-groove is formed in the planarization layer. The method for forming the groove may include: after fabricating a first electrode on the substrate with the planarization layer, coating a pixel defining material layer; performing a patterning process on the pixel defining material layer to form a via; the remaining portion of the pixel defining material layer forming a pixel defining layer; a portion of the edge of the via and a portion of the edge of the first electrode being spaced apart (this spaced area is the sub-opening); during the formation of the via, after etching the portion of the pixel defining material layer located in the via, continuing to etch the planarization layer; during the etching of the planarization layer, the first electrode located in the via and the pixel defining layer used to define the via act as an etching mask for the planarization layer, thereby forming a sub-groove corresponding to the sub-opening in the planarization layer. The structure of the display panel obtained by this fabrication method can be seen in [reference needed]. Figure 8 and Figure 9 The relevant descriptions in the illustrated embodiments will not be repeated here.

[0092] In embodiments of this disclosure, the patterning process can be a photolithography patterning process, which may include, for example, coating a structural layer to be patterned with photoresist, exposing the photoresist using a photomask, developing the exposed photoresist to obtain a photoresist pattern, etching the structural layer using the photoresist pattern (optionally wet or dry etching), and then optionally removing the photoresist pattern. It should be noted that when the material of the structural layer (e.g., a pixel defining layer) includes photoresist, the structural layer can be directly exposed using a photomask to form the desired pattern.

[0093] In some other embodiments of the present disclosure, the method for fabricating a display panel includes a planarization layer formed on the side of the substrate facing the pixel defining layer. The recess includes a sub-recess and a sub-opening surrounded by a first electrode and the pixel defining layer. On the surface of the substrate, the orthographic projection of the sub-opening coincides with the orthographic projection of the sub-recess. A recessed structure is provided on the surface of the planarization layer facing the pixel defining layer. The recessed structure is formed by thinning the planarization layer using the first electrode as a mask, and the pixel defining layer covers a portion of the recessed structure, such that the sidewall of the pixel defining layer located in the through-hole and the sidewall of the recessed structure together surround the sub-recess, forming a recessed structure. The method for creating a groove may include: after fabricating a first electrode on a substrate with a planarization layer, using the first electrode as a mask to pattern the planarization layer to thin the portion of the planarization layer not covered by the first electrode, thereby forming a recessed structure in the planarization layer; then coating a pixel defining material layer, which is patterned to form a via, the remaining portion of the pixel defining material layer forming a pixel defining layer located in the recessed structure, with a portion of the edge of the via and a portion of the edge of the first electrode spaced apart to define a sub-opening, and a portion of the sidewall of the via and a portion of the sidewall of the recessed structure spaced apart to define a sub-groove corresponding to the sub-opening. The structure of the display panel obtained by this fabrication method can be seen in [reference needed]. Figure 10 and Figure 11 The relevant descriptions in the illustrated embodiments will not be repeated here.

[0094] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this disclosure and is not intended to limit this disclosure. Any modifications or equivalent substitutions made within the spirit and principles of this disclosure should be included within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A display panel, characterized in that, include: Base; A pixel defining layer is located on the substrate and has multiple through holes; Multiple light-emitting devices, each of which includes a stacked first electrode, a light-emitting functional layer and a second electrode, wherein the light-emitting functional layer is located in the via, and each light-emitting functional layer includes a light-emitting layer and a first common film layer located between the light-emitting layer and the first electrode, wherein the multiple light-emitting devices share the first common film layer; Wherein, on the surface where the substrate is located, the orthographic projection of the first electrode lies at least partially within the orthographic projection of the corresponding through hole. In at least one of the vias, a portion of the edge of the first electrode contacts the pixel defining layer, and another portion of the edge of the first electrode is spaced from the pixel defining layer, such that a groove exists between the first electrode and the pixel defining layer. In the through-hole with the groove, the first common film layer includes a first sub-film layer located on the first electrode and a second sub-film layer located in the groove. The thickness of the first common film layer is less than or equal to the depth of the groove, such that the first sub-film layer and the second sub-film layer are disconnected from each other at the step junction of the first electrode and the groove.

2. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first common membrane layer includes at least one of a hole transport layer and a hole injection layer.

3. The display panel according to claim 2, characterized in that, In the through hole with the groove, the light-emitting layer includes a first sub-light-emitting layer located on the first electrode and a second sub-light-emitting layer located in the groove. The first sub-light-emitting layer and the second sub-light-emitting layer are disconnected from each other at the step junction of the first electrode and the groove, and the step between the first sub-light-emitting layer and the second sub-light-emitting layer is substantially equal to the depth of the groove.

4. The display panel according to claim 2, characterized in that, In the through hole with the groove, the light-emitting layer is a continuous film covering the first electrode and the groove.

5. The display panel according to claim 4, characterized in that, The surface of the light-emitting layer facing away from the substrate is a plane, and the surface of the second electrode located in the through hole and facing away from the substrate is also a plane.

6. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The substrate includes a planarization layer located on the side of the substrate facing the pixel defining layer. The groove includes a sub-groove and a sub-opening formed by the first electrode and the pixel defining layer. On the surface of the substrate, the orthographic projection of the sub-opening coincides with the orthographic projection of the sub-groove. The sub-grooves are formed in the planar layer; or The surface of the planar layer facing the pixel defining layer has a recessed structure, and the sidewalls of the through hole and the sidewalls of the recessed structure together surround the sub-groove.

7. The display panel according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, At least three adjacent light-emitting devices that emit light of different wavelengths constitute a pixel unit, and The groove is provided in the through hole corresponding to the light-emitting device that emits the shortest wavelength light, and the groove is located between the first electrode of the light-emitting device that emits the shortest wavelength light and the adjacent light-emitting device that emits non-shortest wavelength light, and / or the groove is provided in the through hole corresponding to the light-emitting device that emits non-shortest wavelength light, and the groove is located between the first electrode of the light-emitting device that emits non-shortest wavelength light and the adjacent light-emitting device that emits the shortest wavelength light.

8. The display panel according to claim 7, characterized in that, The shortest wavelength light is blue light, and the non-shortest wavelength light is one or a combination of red and green light.

9. The display panel according to claim 7, characterized in that, The orthographic projection of the groove on the surface of the substrate surrounds a portion of the orthographic projection of the first electrode on the surface of the substrate.

10. The display panel according to claim 9, characterized in that, The orthographic projection of the groove onto the surface of the base is a straight line segment.

11. The display panel according to claim 9, characterized in that, The length of the orthographic projection of the sidewall of the groove defined by the pixel defining layer onto the surface of the substrate is 5% to 95% of the perimeter of the orthographic projection of the end of the through hole facing the substrate onto the surface of the substrate.

12. The display panel according to claim 11, characterized in that, Each of the vias is formed by a plurality of sidewalls of the pixel defining layer. In the via with the groove, a portion of the sidewalls of the plurality of sidewalls is in contact with the first electrode, and the other sidewalls of the plurality of sidewalls are spaced apart from the first electrode.

13. The display panel according to claim 9, characterized in that, The orthographic projection of the groove onto the surface of the substrate is a non-closed ring, and Each of the through holes is provided with a groove, and the openings of the grooves face the same direction; or Each of the vias is provided with a groove, and in each pixel unit, the opening of the groove of the light-emitting device emitting non-shortest wavelength light corresponds to the edge of the groove of the light-emitting device emitting the shortest wavelength light, and the openings of the grooves of at least two of the light-emitting devices emitting non-shortest wavelength light are opposite each other; or Each of the through holes is provided with a groove, the opening of the groove of any of the light-emitting devices corresponds to the edge of the groove of the adjacent other light-emitting devices, and the openings of the grooves in each pixel unit face different directions; or Each of the vias is provided with a groove, and the opening of the groove of the light-emitting device emitting the shortest wavelength light in at least one pixel unit is opposite to the opening of the groove of the light-emitting device emitting the shortest wavelength light in at least one adjacent pixel unit; or Each of the through holes is provided with a groove, the opening of the groove of any light-emitting device corresponds to the edge of the groove of the adjacent light-emitting device, and in each pixel unit, the openings of the grooves located in different light-emitting devices face different directions; or The groove is provided in the through hole corresponding to the light-emitting device that emits only the shortest wavelength light, and the opening of the groove of the light-emitting device that emits the shortest wavelength light is opposite to the opening of the groove of at least one adjacent light-emitting device that emits the shortest wavelength light; or The groove is provided in the through hole corresponding to the light-emitting device that emits light of non-shortest wavelength only, and in each pixel unit, the openings of the grooves of adjacent light-emitting devices that emit light of non-shortest wavelength are opposite to each other.

14. The display panel according to claim 9, characterized in that, The orthographic projection of the groove onto the surface of the base is a straight line segment, and At least one of the aforementioned grooves is provided in the through-hole corresponding to the light-emitting device emitting the shortest wavelength light, and the groove is located between the first electrode of the light-emitting device emitting the shortest wavelength light and the adjacent light-emitting device emitting non-shortest wavelength light; and / or At least one groove is provided in the through hole corresponding to the light-emitting device that emits non-shortest wavelength light, and the groove is located between the first electrode of the light-emitting device that emits non-shortest wavelength light and the adjacent light-emitting device that emits shortest wavelength light.

15. A method for manufacturing a display panel according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that, include: Provide a base; A plurality of first electrodes spaced apart from each other are formed on the substrate; A pixel defining layer is formed on the substrate on which the first electrode is formed, and a via is formed in the pixel defining layer that exposes at least a portion of the first electrode; A light-emitting functional layer is formed in the via, and at least a portion of the light-emitting functional layer is formed by vapor deposition, wherein each light-emitting functional layer includes a light-emitting layer and a first common film layer located between the light-emitting layer and the first electrode, and a plurality of light-emitting devices share the first common film layer; and A second electrode is formed on the light-emitting functional layer; In at least one of the vias, a portion of the edge of the first electrode contacts the pixel defining layer, and another portion of the edge of the first electrode is spaced apart from the pixel defining layer, such that a groove is formed between the first electrode and the pixel defining layer. In the through-hole in which the groove is formed, the first common film layer includes a first sub-film layer located on the first electrode and a second sub-film layer located in the groove. The thickness of the first common film layer is less than or equal to the depth of the groove, such that the first sub-film layer and the second sub-film layer are disconnected from each other at the step junction of the first electrode and the groove.

Images