Organic light emitting display device

Abstract

An organic light emitting display device is provided, including: a substrate including a display area including a plurality of sub-pixels and a non-display area surrounding the display area; a thin film transistor disposed on the substrate; a planarization layer disposed on the thin film transistor; an anode disposed on the planarization layer and corresponding to each of the sub-pixels; a bank layer disposed on the planarization layer and including a first opening unit exposing at least a portion of the anode and a second opening unit spaced apart from the first opening unit; a first spacer disposed on the bank layer; and a second spacer continuously disposed on the anode and the bank layer to overlap a portion of an edge of the first opening unit. The first opening unit and the second opening unit are formed such that the bank layer has an inverted taper shape and the second spacer has a taper shape.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0183783, filed on December 24, 2020, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to an organic light-emitting display device in which the separation and breakage of organic light-emitting diodes are suppressed and the impact resistance is improved during folding. Background Technology

[0004] Unlike liquid crystal displays (LCDs) that include backlighting, organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays do not require a separate light source. Therefore, OLEDs can be manufactured to be lightweight and thin, offering process advantages and low power consumption due to low-voltage operation. Furthermore, OLEDs include self-emissive elements and layers formed from organic thin films, resulting in superior flexibility and elasticity compared to other display devices, making them advantageous for implementation as foldable displays.

[0005] Typically, the organic light-emitting diode (OLED) panel of a foldable display device includes a substrate, an anode, a diaphragm, a light-emitting layer, a cathode, and an encapsulation layer. However, when the display device is folded, strong stress is applied to the encapsulation layer, which includes an inorganic layer, making it prone to cracking. As mentioned above, when the encapsulation layer cracks, there is a problem that organic light-emitting diodes such as the cathode or the light-emitting layer also crack, and the light-emitting layer separates from the panel. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide an organic light-emitting display device that suppresses the cracking or separation of the encapsulation layer, organic light-emitting layer, cathode, etc. by reducing the stress applied to the panel during folding.

[0007] Another objective of this disclosure is to provide an organic light-emitting display device with a folding unit that has excellent impact resistance.

[0008] Another objective of this disclosure is to provide a foldable organic light-emitting display device that can improve the problem of the display brightness of adjacent sub-pixels being affected by lateral current.

[0009] Another objective of this disclosure is to provide an organic light-emitting display device that displays images of higher quality by suppressing foreign matter generated during the process of forming the light-emitting layer using a mask, while suppressing breakage and separation of the encapsulation layer, organic light-emitting layer, cathode, etc., during folding.

[0010] The purpose of this disclosure is not limited to the purposes mentioned above, and other purposes not mentioned above will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art through the following description.

[0011] According to one aspect of this disclosure, an organic light-emitting display device includes: a substrate including a display area comprising a plurality of sub-pixels and a non-display area surrounding the display area; a thin-film transistor disposed on the substrate; a planarization layer disposed on the thin-film transistor; an anode disposed on the planarization layer and corresponding to each sub-pixel; a dam layer disposed on the planarization layer and including a first opening unit exposing at least a portion of the anode and a second opening unit spaced apart from the first opening unit; a first spacer portion disposed on the dam layer; and a second spacer portion continuously disposed on the anode and the dam layer to overlap with a portion of the edge of the first opening unit, wherein the first and second opening units are formed such that the dam layer has an inverted conical shape and the second spacer portion has a conical shape. The conical spacer portion overlapping the opening unit is formed to suppress separation and breakage during folding and to improve impact resistance.

[0012] Further details of the exemplary implementation are included in the detailed implementation and the accompanying drawings.

[0013] According to this disclosure, the cracking or separation of organic light-emitting diodes can be suppressed by reducing the stress applied to the display panel during folding.

[0014] According to this disclosure, the impact resistance of the folding unit can be significantly improved.

[0015] According to this disclosure, the problem of adjacent sub-pixels being affected by lateral current can be improved.

[0016] The effects of this disclosure are not limited to those illustrated above, and this specification includes many more effects. Attached Figure Description

[0017] The above and other aspects, features and other advantages of this disclosure will become clearer from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic plan view of an organic light-emitting display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An enlarged plan view of region A;

[0020] Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken from line II-II';

[0021] Figure 4 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken from line I-I';

[0022] Figure 5 This is an enlarged plan view of an organic light-emitting display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 6 This is an enlarged plan view of an organic light-emitting display device according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 7 It is along Figure 6 The cross-sectional view taken from line III-III'; and

[0025] Figures 8A to 8F This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing an organic light-emitting display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0026] The advantages and features of this disclosure, as well as methods for achieving these advantages and features, will become clear from the exemplary embodiments described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited to the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, but will be implemented in various forms. Exemplary embodiments are provided by way of example only to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the disclosure and scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure is limited only by the scope of the appended claims.

[0027] The shapes, dimensions, ratios, angles, numbers, etc., shown in the accompanying drawings used to describe exemplary embodiments of this disclosure are merely examples, and this disclosure is not limited thereto. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals indicate the same elements. Furthermore, detailed explanations of known related technologies may be omitted in the following description to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the subject matter of this disclosure. Terms such as “comprising,” “having,” and “consisting of” as used herein are generally intended to allow for the addition of additional components, unless these terms are used in conjunction with the term “only.” Any reference to the singular may include the plural unless otherwise explicitly stated.

[0028] Even if not explicitly stated, components are interpreted as including a normal tolerance range.

[0029] When using terms such as “on top of,” “above,” “below,” and “close to” to describe the positional relationship between two parts, one or more parts may be located between the two parts, unless these terms are used with the terms “close to” or “directly.”

[0030] When an element or layer is placed "on" another element or layer, the other layer or element may be placed directly on or between the other element.

[0031] Although the terms "first," "second," etc., are used to describe the various components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are merely used to distinguish one component from others. Therefore, the first component mentioned below may be a second component in the technical concept of this disclosure.

[0032] Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals indicate the same elements.

[0033] For ease of description, the dimensions and thickness of each component shown in the accompanying drawings are illustrated, and this disclosure is not limited to the dimensions and thickness of the components shown.

[0034] The features of the various embodiments of this disclosure can be combined or integrated with each other in part or in whole, and can be linked and operated in various technical ways, and these embodiments can be implemented independently or in relation to each other.

[0035] The contents of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0036] Figures 1 to 4 This is a view used to illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an organic light-emitting display device according to the present disclosure. Figure 1 This is a schematic plan view of an organic light-emitting display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A magnified plan view of region A. Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view taken from line II-II'. Figure 4 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line I-I'.

[0037] Reference Figures 1 to 4 An organic light-emitting display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes a flexible substrate 110, a thin film transistor 120, an organic light-emitting diode 130, a dam layer 140, a first spacer 150, a second spacer 160, a third spacer 160', an encapsulation layer 170, and a dam structure 180.

[0038] Reference Figure 1An organic light-emitting display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure includes a display area DA and a non-display area NDA. The display area DA is an area in which a plurality of sub-pixels SP are disposed to substantially display an image. In the display area DA, a plurality of sub-pixels SP may be disposed, each including an emitting region for displaying an image and driving circuitry for driving the sub-pixels SP. A sub-pixel SP is an element that displays a color and includes an emitting region that emits light and a non-emitting region that does not emit light; however, in this specification, only the emitting region that emits light is defined as a sub-pixel. The plurality of sub-pixels SP are arranged in a matrix shape. The non-display area NDA surrounds the display area DA. The non-display area NDA is an area in which no image is substantially displayed, and in which various wiring, driver ICs, printed circuit boards, etc., for driving the pixels disposed in the display area DA and driving circuitry are disposed. For example, in the non-display area NDA, various driver ICs such as gate driver ICs and data driver ICs, and VSS lines may be disposed.

[0039] Multiple subpixels (SPs) are arranged in a matrix shape. Multiple subpixels (SPs) can constitute a single pixel unit. For example, refer to... Figure 2 A pixel unit may include a first sub-pixel SP1, a second sub-pixel SP2, a third sub-pixel SP3, and a fourth sub-pixel SP4. The first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2 are alternately arranged in a first direction (x-axis direction), and the third sub-pixel SP3 and the fourth sub-pixel SP4 are alternately arranged in the first direction (x-axis direction) and spaced apart from the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2 in a second direction (y-axis direction), but are not limited thereto.

[0040] The first sub-pixel SP1, the second sub-pixel SP2, the third sub-pixel SP3, and the fourth sub-pixel SP4 can display different colors, and some sub-pixels can display the same color as needed. Each of the first sub-pixel SP1, the second sub-pixel SP2, the third sub-pixel SP3, and the fourth sub-pixel SP4 can be any one of a red sub-pixel, a green sub-pixel, and a blue sub-pixel. For example, the sub-pixels can be configured with the following pentile pixel arrangement structure, where the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2 are red and blue sub-pixels, respectively, and the third sub-pixel SP3 and the fourth sub-pixel SP4 are both green sub-pixels. When multiple sub-pixels SP are arranged in a pentile pixel arrangement structure, the number of first sub-pixels SP1 and second sub-pixels SP2 arranged in the display area DA can be reduced compared to sub-pixels arranged in a stripe structure. With the reduction in the number of sub-pixels SP, the aperture ratio can be increased while maintaining the same level of cognitive resolution compared to a stripe structure. Furthermore, reducing the number of sub-pixels SP simplifies the manufacturing process of the organic light-emitting display panel and is advantageous in terms of power consumption. In the following description, an exemplary embodiment of the organic light-emitting display device 100 according to the present disclosure will be described under the assumption that the first sub-pixel SP1 is a red sub-pixel, the second sub-pixel SP2 is a blue sub-pixel, and the third sub-pixel SP3 and the fourth sub-pixel SP4 are green sub-pixels. However, for ease of description, the colors of the sub-pixels are described as examples, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0041] exist Figure 2 The image shows multiple sub-pixels SP1, SP2, SP3, and SP4 formed using a pixel arrangement structure, but is not limited to this. The color and arrangement of the sub-pixels can be varied in various forms as needed. Furthermore, in... Figure 2 The image shows multiple sub-pixels SP1, SP2, SP3, and SP4 with octagonal shapes, but is not limited to this, and the shapes of the sub-pixels can be changed to various shapes. For example, each sub-pixel can have a polygonal shape other than a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or an octagonal shape.

[0042] The organic light-emitting display device 100 includes at least one foldable unit and a non-foldable unit serving as the area other than the foldable unit. Figure 1 The diagram shows that the folding unit includes a first folding unit FA1 and a second folding region FA2, and the non-folding unit includes a first non-folding unit NFA1, a second non-folding unit NFA2 and a third non-folding unit NFA3, but is not limited thereto.

[0043] Folding units FA1 and FA2 are the areas folded when the organic light-emitting display device 100 is folded, and are folded according to a specific radius of curvature relative to the folding axis. For example, the folding axis of folding units FA1 and FA2 can be formed in the X-axis direction, and non-folding units NFA1, NFA2, and NFA3 can extend from folding units FA1 and FA2 in the Y-axis direction perpendicular to the folding axis. When folding units FA1 and FA2 are folded relative to the folding axis, folding units FA1 and FA2 can form a portion of a circle or ellipse. In this case, the radius of curvature of folding units FA1 and FA2 refers to the radius of the circle or ellipse formed by folding units FA1 and FA2.

[0044] The non-folding units NFA1, NFA2, and NFA3 are areas that are not folded when the organic light-emitting display device 100 is folded. When the organic light-emitting display device 100 is folded, the non-folding units NFA1, NFA2, and NFA3 remain flat. The non-folding units NFA1, NFA2, and NFA3 can be located on both sides of the folding units FA1 and FA2. That is, the non-folding units NFA1, NFA2, and NFA3 can be areas extending in the Y-axis direction relative to the folding axis. At this time, the folding units FA1 and FA2 can be defined between the non-folding units NFA1, NFA2, and NFA3. Furthermore, when the organic light-emitting display device 100 is folded relative to the folding axis, the non-folding units NFA1, NFA2, and NFA3 can overlap each other. For example, the first folding unit FA1 can be defined between the first non-folding unit NFA1 and the second non-folding unit NFA2, and the second folding unit FA2 can be defined between the second non-folding unit NFA2 and the third non-folding unit NFA3.

[0045] When the surface of the organic light-emitting display device 100 displaying an image is defined as the top surface and the rear surface of the organic light-emitting display device 100 is defined as the bottom surface, the folding units FA1 and FA2 can be folded by means selected from an outward folding method and an inward folding method. According to the outward folding method, the folding units are folded to expose the top surface of the organic light-emitting display device 100 to the outside, while according to the inward folding method, the folding units are folded to expose the bottom surface of the organic light-emitting display device 100 to the outside.

[0046] The substrate supports various components such as thin-film transistors 120 or organic light-emitting diodes 130. The substrate can be formed of an insulating material. Furthermore, such as Figure 1As shown, when the organic light-emitting display device 100 is used as a foldable display device, the substrate can be a flexible substrate formed of a flexible insulating material. Hereinafter, the substrate is described as a flexible substrate. Specifically, the flexible substrate 110 can be an insulating plastic substrate selected from polyimide, polyethersulfone, polyethylene terephthalate, and polycarbonate. However, it is not limited to this, and flexible materials can be used in addition to plastics if the material is not damaged even when the organic light-emitting display device 100 is repeatedly folded. The flexible substrate 110 has excellent flexibility, but is thinner and has weaker rigidity compared to a glass substrate, making it possible for the flexible substrate to sag when various components are mounted. Therefore, support members such as a backplate can be selectively mounted below the flexible substrate 110 as needed. The backplate supports the flexible substrate 110 to prevent sagging and protects the components mounted on the flexible substrate 110 from external moisture, heat, and impact. The backsheet can be a plastic material, such as polymethyl methacrylate, polycarbonate, polyvinyl alcohol, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, or polyethylene terephthalate, but is not limited thereto. When the backsheet is disposed below the flexible substrate 110, an adhesive layer can be provided between the flexible substrate 110 and the backsheet to adhere them together. The adhesive layer can use optically transparent adhesives, pressure-sensitive adhesives, optically transparent resins, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0047] A buffer layer 112 is provided on the flexible substrate 110. The buffer layer 112 can enhance the adhesion between the layer formed on the buffer layer 112 and the flexible substrate 110. In addition, the buffer layer 112 prevents the leakage of alkaline components from the flexible substrate 110 and inhibits the diffusion of moisture and / or oxygen that seeps in from the outside of the flexible substrate 110. The buffer layer 112 may be composed of a single layer or multiple layers of silicon nitride (SiNx) or silicon oxide (SiOx), but is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the buffer layer 112 may be omitted depending on the type or material of the flexible substrate 110 and the structure and type of the thin-film transistor.

[0048] A thin-film transistor 120, comprising a gate electrode 122, an active layer 124, a source electrode 126, and a drain electrode 128, is disposed on a buffer layer 112. The thin-film transistor 120 is disposed in each region of the first sub-pixel SP1, the second sub-pixel SP2, the third sub-pixel SP3, and the fourth sub-pixel SP4. Figure 3 For ease of description, only driving thin-film transistors, which may be included among various thin-film transistors in the organic light-emitting display device 100, are shown. Furthermore, in Figure 3 The thin-film transistor 120 is described as having a coplanar structure as an example, but this disclosure is not limited thereto, and a thin-film transistor 120 having an anti-interlaced structure may also be used.

[0049] For example, an active layer 124 is disposed on a buffer layer 112, and a gate insulating layer 114 is disposed on the active layer 124 to insulate the active layer 124 and the gate electrode 122 from each other. Furthermore, an interlayer insulating layer 116 is disposed on the gate insulating layer 114 to insulate the gate electrode 122 from the source electrode 126 and the drain electrode 128. The source electrode 126 and the drain electrode 128, which contact the active layer 124, are disposed on the interlayer insulating layer 116. The gate insulating layer 114 and the interlayer insulating layer 116 may include contact holes through which the source electrode 126 and the drain electrode 128 are electrically connected to the active layer 124. A planarization layer 118 may be disposed on the thin-film transistor 120. The planarization layer 118 planarizes the upper portion of the thin-film transistor 120. The planarization layer 118 may include contact holes electrically connecting the thin-film transistor 120 to the anode 132 of the organic light-emitting diode 130.

[0050] An organic light-emitting diode 130 is disposed on a planarization layer 118. The organic light-emitting diode 130 includes an anode 132, an organic light-emitting layer 134, and a cathode 136.

[0051] An anode 132 is disposed on a planarization layer 118. The anode 132 is configured to correspond to the first sub-pixel SP1, the second sub-pixel SP2, the third sub-pixel SP3, and the fourth sub-pixel SP4, respectively. The anode 132 is electrically connected to the source electrode 126 of the thin-film transistor 120. The anode 132 is formed of a conductive material with a high work function to provide holes to the organic light-emitting layer 134. The anode 132 can be a transparent conductive layer formed of a transparent conductive oxide (TCO). For example, the anode 132 can be formed from one or more transparent conductive oxides selected from, but not limited to, indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), indium tin zinc oxide (ITZO), tin oxide (SnO2), zinc oxide (ZnO), indium copper oxide (ICO), and aluminum:zinc oxide (Al:ZnO, AZO). When the organic light-emitting display device 100 is driven by a top-emission method, the anode 132 may also include a reflective layer that reflects light emitted from the organic light-emitting layer 134 toward the cathode 136. The anode 132 can be formed to be separate for each of the first sub-pixel SP1, the second sub-pixel SP2, the third sub-pixel SP3, and the fourth sub-pixel SP4.

[0052] A dam layer 140 is disposed on the anode 132 and the planarization layer 118. The dam layer 140 may cover the edge of the anode 132 of the organic light-emitting diode 130 to define an emission region. As described above, in this specification, the emission region for emitting light is defined only as the sub-pixel SP. That is, the dam layer 140 may divide a plurality of sub-pixels SP1, SP2, SP3, and SP4. The dam layer 140 may be formed of an insulating material that insulates the anodes 132 of adjacent sub-pixels SP1, SP2, SP3, and SP4 from each other. Furthermore, the dam layer 140 may be composed of a black dam with high light absorption to suppress color mixing between adjacent sub-pixels SP1, SP2, SP3, and SP4. For example, the dam layer 140 may be formed of polyimide resin, acrylic resin, or benzocyclobutene resin, but is not limited thereto. The dam layer 140 will be described in more detail below.

[0053] An organic light-emitting layer 134 is disposed on the anode 132. The organic light-emitting layer 134 is a layer in which electrons and holes couple to emit light. Therefore, the organic light-emitting layer 134 emitting light of corresponding colors can be disposed in sub-pixels SP1, SP2, SP3, and SP4. For example, a red organic light-emitting layer is disposed in the first sub-pixel SP1, a blue organic light-emitting layer is disposed in the second sub-pixel SP2, and a green organic light-emitting layer is disposed in the third sub-pixel SP3 and the fourth sub-pixel SP4, but this is not a limitation.

[0054] The cathode 136 is disposed on the organic light-emitting layer 134. Instead of being patterned for each of the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, SP3, and SP4, the cathode 136 can be formed as a single layer covering the organic light-emitting layer 134 and the embankment layer 140. That is, the cathode 136 can be formed as a single layer in the first sub-pixel SP1, the second sub-pixel SP2, the third sub-pixel SP3, and the fourth sub-pixel SP4.

[0055] The cathode 136 can be formed of a metallic material with a low work function to smoothly provide electrons to the organic light-emitting layer 134. For example, the cathode 136 can be formed of a metallic material selected from calcium (Ca), barium (Ba), aluminum (Al), silver (Ag), and alloys including one or more of these, but is not limited thereto. When the organic light-emitting display device 100 is driven as a top-emitting type, the cathode 136 is formed to have a very small thickness, making it substantially transparent.

[0056] To improve the luminous efficiency of the organic light-emitting diode 130, it may also include a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, an electron transport layer, and an electron injection layer. For example, the hole injection layer and the hole transport layer may be disposed between the anode 132 and the organic light-emitting layer 134, and the electron transport layer and the electron injection layer may be disposed between the organic light-emitting layer 134 and the cathode 136. Furthermore, a hole blocking layer or an electron blocking layer may be provided to further improve the recombination efficiency of holes and electrons in the organic light-emitting layer 134.

[0057] An encapsulation layer 170 is provided on the cathode 136. The encapsulation layer 170 minimizes the degradation of the components of the organic light-emitting display device 100 due to moisture, oxygen, etc. The encapsulation layer 170 planarizes the upper surface of the organic light-emitting diode 130. The encapsulation layer 170 can be formed with a multilayer structure in which inorganic and organic layers are stacked. For example, the encapsulation layer 170 can be composed of at least one organic layer and at least two inorganic layers, and has a multilayer structure in which inorganic and organic layers are stacked alternately, but is not limited thereto. For example, the encapsulation layer 170 can have a three-layer structure including a first inorganic encapsulation layer 172, an organic encapsulation layer 174, and a second inorganic encapsulation layer 176. For example, the first inorganic encapsulation layer 172 and the second inorganic encapsulation layer 176 can be independently formed from one or more of silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride oxide (SiON), and aluminum oxide (Al2O3), but is not limited thereto. For example, the organic encapsulation layer 174 may be formed from one or more of epoxy resin, polyimide, polyethylene and silicon carbide oxide (SiOC), but is not limited thereto.

[0058] Reference Figure 4 The signal line 128' is disposed in the non-display area NDA. The signal line 128' is disposed on the interlayer insulating layer 116 corresponding to the non-display area NDA. The signal line 128' can be disposed on the same plane as the source electrode 126 and the drain electrode 128. The signal line 128' can be a VSS line providing a common voltage to the cathode 136 of the organic light-emitting diode 130 formed in each sub-pixel SP1, SP2, SP3, and SP4. The signal line 128' can be formed from the same material and using the same process as the source electrode 126 and the drain electrode 128, but is not limited thereto.

[0059] Signal line 128' is electrically connected to connection electrode 132'. Connection electrode 132' is disposed on planarization layer 118 and extends along the outermost periphery of planarization layer 118 to contact signal line 128'. Connection electrode 132' can be electrically connected to cathode 136 by means of a space in which a portion of the embankment layer 140 covering connection electrode 132' has been removed. Connection electrode 132' can be formed from the same material as anode 132 through the same process, but is not limited thereto.

[0060] A dam structure 180 is disposed in the non-display area NDA. The dam structure 180 is disposed on the signal line 128'. The dam structure 180 controls the flow of polymer so as to prevent the flowable polymer used to form the organic encapsulation layer 174 from intruding into the pad cells where the signal line 128' is formed during the formation of the organic encapsulation layer 174. The dam structure 180 can be configured to surround the display area DA or be disposed within the display area DA. Although in Figure 4 The diagram shows one dam structure 180, but two or more dam structures may also be provided. The dam structure 180 may be formed into multiple layers using at least one material. For example, the dam structure 180 may be formed of a first layer 182 and a second layer 184, the first layer 182 being formed of a material used to form a levee layer 140, and the second layer 184 being formed of a material used to form a first spacer 150.

[0061] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 2 to 4 The dike layer 140, the first spacer 150, the second spacer 160 and the third spacer 160' are described in more detail.

[0062] As described above, the dike layer 140 is disposed on the planarization layer 118 to cover the edge of the anode 132, thereby exposing the anode 132. At this time, refer to... Figure 2 and Figure 3 The embankment 140 includes a first opening unit OA1 formed in the emission region of the display area DA, a second opening unit OA2 formed in the non-emission region, and a third opening unit OA3 formed in the non-display area NDA.

[0063] The first aperture unit OA1 is formed to correspond to and define the emission region of each sub-pixel SP1, SP2, SP3, and SP4. That is, the first aperture unit OA1 exposes a portion of the top surface of the anode 132 corresponding to the emission region. The first aperture unit OA1 defines the emission region of each sub-pixel SP1, SP2, SP3, and SP4, thereby providing a plurality of first aperture units.

[0064] Despite Figure 2 The diagram shows that the first opening unit OA1 has an octagonal shape, but the first opening unit OA1 can have a polygonal shape other than a circle, ellipse, or octagon, but is not limited to this. Furthermore, although in Figure 2 The diagram shows that the first opening units OA1 have the same shape, but for each sub-pixel, the first opening unit can have a different shape. Furthermore, the first opening unit OA1 can have a different size for each sub-pixel. For example, as... Figure 2As shown, the size of the first aperture unit OA1 corresponding to the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2 is the same, and the size of the first aperture unit OA1 corresponding to the third sub-pixel SP3 and the fourth sub-pixel SP4 is also the same. However, the size of the first aperture unit OA1 corresponding to the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second sub-pixel SP2 and the size of the first aperture unit OA1 corresponding to the third sub-pixel SP3 and the fourth sub-pixel SP4 can be different. However, the size of the first aperture unit OA1 is not limited to this, and all first aperture units can have the same size.

[0065] The second opening element OA2 is formed in the non-emission region. Although in Figure 3 The diagram shows a second opening unit OA2 formed to expose the planarization layer 118 in the non-emission region, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the second opening unit OA2 may be a groove recessed from the top surface of the embankment 140 toward the planarization layer 118 without exposing the planarization layer 118 disposed therebelow.

[0066] The second aperture unit OA2 is positioned between adjacent sub-pixels, and multiple second aperture units can be provided. (See reference...) Figure 2 Multiple second opening units OA2 are disposed between the first sub-pixel SP1 and the third sub-pixel SP3, between the second sub-pixel SP2 and the third sub-pixel SP3, and between the second sub-pixel SP2 and the fourth sub-pixel SP4. That is, the four second opening units OA2 are disposed adjacent to each other with respect to a sub-pixel.

[0067] Despite Figure 2 The diagram shows the second opening element OA2 as having a long rectangular shape in a plan view; however, the second opening element OA2 can have a polygonal shape other than a circular, elliptical, or quadrilateral shape, and is not limited to these. Furthermore, although in Figure 2 The diagram shows that all the second opening units OA2 have the same shape, but the second opening units can have different shapes depending on their position.

[0068] The third opening unit OA3 is formed in the non-display area NDA located on both sides of the display area DA. (Refer to...) Figure 4 The third opening unit OA3 can expose at least a portion of the connection electrode 132' of the non-display area NDA. In the third opening unit OA3, the connection electrode 132' is connected to the cathode 136.

[0069] Layer 140 has an inverted cone shape. (Refer to...) Figure 3 and Figure 4The inverted conical shape refers to the shape in which the width of the dam layer 140 increases as it moves upward relative to the flexible substrate 110. In other words, in the first opening unit OA1, the second opening unit OA2, and the third opening unit OA3, the dam layer 140 may have an inverted conical shape starting from the planarization layer 118.

[0070] Because the embankment 140 has an inverted conical shape, the organic light-emitting diode 130 is not deposited on the side surface of the embankment 140 exposed by the first opening unit OA1, the second opening unit OA2, and the third opening unit OA3, thus breaking the continuity. Figure 3 In the diagram, in the first opening unit OA1 and the second opening unit OA2, the organic light-emitting layer 134 and the cathode 136 constituting the organic light-emitting diode 130 are not arranged to contact the side surface of the dam layer 140, but are disposed on the top surface of the anode 132 or the top surface of the planarization layer 118. However, only the continuity of the organic light-emitting layer 134 may be disrupted on the exposed side surface of the dam layer 140, or only the continuity of the cathode 136 may be disrupted on the exposed side surface of the dam layer 140.

[0071] Simultaneously, an encapsulation layer 170 is formed above the organic light-emitting diode 130 to bond to the exposed side surface of the dam layer 140, thereby securing the organic light-emitting diode 130. Specifically, the first inorganic encapsulation layer 172 of the encapsulation layer 170 extends along the upper portion of the cathode 136 to be deposited, directly contacting the side surface of the dam layer 140 exposed by the first opening unit OA1 and the second opening unit OA2. By doing so, when the organic light-emitting display device 100 is folded, separation of the organic light-emitting diode 130 disposed in the folding units FA1 and FA2 can be suppressed, and adhesion can be improved.

[0072] Simultaneously, the second opening unit OA2 can reduce the lateral current between adjacent sub-pixels. Specifically, holes or electrons move horizontally through organic layers constituting the organic light-emitting diode 130, such as a hole transport layer or an electron transport layer, to generate a current, which is a lateral current. When this lateral current flows through the dam layer to the emission region of other adjacent sub-pixels, it may affect the light intensity emitted from the organic light-emitting layer 134 of those other adjacent sub-pixels. This affects the brightness of adjacent sub-pixels, which may degrade the display quality of the organic light-emitting display device.

[0073] Because the dam layer 140 has an inverted conical shape, the organic light-emitting diode 130 is not deposited on the side surface of the dam layer 140 exposed by the second opening unit OA2, thus disrupting continuity. Therefore, the second opening unit OA2 is formed between the sub-pixels to increase the path of lateral current moving from one sub-pixel to other adjacent sub-pixels. By doing so, the current applied to other adjacent sub-pixels due to lateral current can be suppressed.

[0074] The dike layer 140 can be formed of an insulating material that insulates the anodes 132 of adjacent sub-pixels SP1, SP2, SP3, and SP4 from each other. Furthermore, the dike layer 140 can be composed of a black dike with high light absorption to suppress color mixing between adjacent sub-pixels SP1, SP2, SP3, and SP4. For example, the dike layer 140 can be formed of polyimide resin, acrylic resin, or benzocyclobutene resin, but is not limited thereto. The dike layer 140 can be formed of a photoresist having an inverted conical shape. The photoresist constituting the dike layer 140 will be described below along with the manufacturing method.

[0075] A first spacer 150 is disposed on the embankment 140. When an organic light-emitting layer 134 is formed in multiple sub-pixels SP, a fine metal mask (FMM) can be used as a deposition mask. At this time, multiple first spacers 150 can be disposed between the multiple sub-pixels SP to support the deposition mask and maintain a predetermined distance from it. The first spacers 150 allow the embankment 140 and anode 132 below the first spacers 150 to maintain a predetermined distance from the deposition mask and suppress damage caused by contact. The first spacers 150 can be formed with a shape that narrows towards the upper portion, such as a tapered shape, to minimize the area in contact with the deposition mask. Meanwhile, in Figure 2 The diagram shows that the first spacer 150 has a circular shape in a plan view, but is not limited thereto.

[0076] The second spacing portion 160 is configured to overlap with the edge of the first opening unit OA1. As described above, the first opening unit OA1 defines the emission region of each sub-pixel SP. (Refer to...) Figure 2 The second spacing portion 160 is configured to overlap with a portion of the edge of the emission region of each sub-pixel SP. That is, the second spacing portion 160 is configured to overlap with a portion of the boundary between the emission region and the non-emission region. At this time, the second spacing portion 160 is configured to cover a portion of the edge of the first opening unit OA1. (Refer to...) Figure 2 A second spacer 160 is disposed on the anode 132 and the dam 140 to overlap with a portion of the edge of the emission region defined by the first opening unit OA1. Specifically, refer to Figure 3The second spacer 160 is configured to be in continuous contact with a portion of the top surface of the anode 132 disposed in the first opening unit OA1, a portion of the side surface of the embankment 140 exposed by the first opening unit OA1, and a portion of the top surface of the embankment 140 adjacent to the first opening unit OA1.

[0077] The second spacer 160 allows the cathode 136 to remain continuous within the first opening unit OA1 without breaking. As described above, the dam layer 140 has an inverted conical shape to suppress the separation of the organic light-emitting diodes 130 disposed in the folding units FA1 and FA2 and to improve adhesion. However, when the dam layer 140 has an inverted conical shape, the organic light-emitting layer 134 and the cathode 136 are not deposited due to the exposed side surfaces of the dam layer 140 during the process of depositing the organic light-emitting layer 134 and the cathode 136 after the formation of the dam layer 140. Therefore, the continuity is disrupted. By doing so, electrons are not supplied to the organic light-emitting diode 130 through the cathode 136, so that the organic light-emitting diode 130 does not emit light. Therefore, in order to apply electrons to the cathode 136 in the emission region, the second spacer 160 has a conical shape so that the cathode 136 is not completely broken within the first opening unit OA1. The second spacer 160 can serve as a path, allowing the cathode 136, which is interrupted by the inverted conical shape of the dam 140 in the first opening unit OA1, to connect to the top surface of the dam 140. That is, the second spacer 160 has a conical shape, such that the organic light-emitting layer 134 and the cathode 136, which are interrupted by the inverted conical shape of the dam 140, can be disposed along the top surface of the anode 132, the side and top surfaces of the second spacer 160, and the top surface of the dam 140 while maintaining continuity without interruption.

[0078] exist Figure 2 The diagram shows that the second spacer 160 has a quadrilateral shape. The second spacer 160 can also have a circular, elliptical, or other polygonal shape, but is not limited to these. Furthermore, although in... Figure 2 The diagram shows that all the second spacing portions 160 have the same shape, but for each sub-pixel, the second spacing portion can have a different shape. Furthermore, although in Figure 2 The diagram shows that the second spacer 160 has a different shape from the first spacer 150, but the second spacer 160 may have the same shape and the same size as the first spacer 150.

[0079] The second spacing portion 160 provided in each sub-pixel is configured to overlap with the edge of the corresponding first opening unit OA1. At this time, all the second spacing portions 160 provided in sub-pixels SP1, SP2, SP3, and SP4 can be configured to be located in the same direction. Specifically, refer to... Figure 2The second spacing portions 160 in all the first sub-pixel SP1, the second spacing portions 160 in the second sub-pixel SP2, the second spacing portions 160 in the third sub-pixel SP3, and the second spacing portions 160 in the fourth sub-pixel SP4 are arranged to overlap with the lower edge of the edge of the first aperture unit OA1. That is, the second spacing portions 160 are arranged at the same position in the edge of the first aperture unit OA1, respectively dividing the emission regions of sub-pixels SP1, SP2, SP3, and SP4. When all the second spacing portions 160 in sub-pixels SP1, SP2, SP3, and SP4 are arranged in the same direction, the change in aperture ratio caused by the second spacing portions 160 in each of the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, SP3, and SP4 can be minimized, and the lateral current path can remain constant and long.

[0080] The third interval 160' is configured to cover at least a portion of the edge of the third opening unit OA3 of the non-display area NDA. (Refer to...) Figure 4 A third spacer 160' is provided on the connecting electrode 132' and the embankment 140 to overlap with a portion of the edge of the third opening unit OA3. The third spacer 160' is configured to continuously contact a portion of the top surface of the connecting electrode 132' provided in the third opening unit OA3, a portion of the side surface of the embankment 140 exposed by the third opening unit OA3, and the top surface of the embankment 140 adjacent to the third opening unit OA3.

[0081] The third spacer 160' allows the cathode 136 to remain continuous within the third opening unit OA3 without breaking, enabling direct contact with the connecting electrode 132'. As described above, with the second spacer 160, the continuity of the cathode 136 is disrupted by the side surface of the dam 140 exposed by the third opening unit OA3. Therefore, the third spacer 160' has a tapered shape, similar to the second spacer 160, such that the cathode 136 remains in contact with the connecting electrode 132' in the third opening unit OA3 without breaking. The tapered shape of the third spacer 160' allows the cathode 136, which is broken due to the inverted tapered shape of the dam 140, to be disposed along the top surface of the connecting electrode 132', the side and top surfaces of the third spacer 160', and the top surface of the dam 140 while maintaining continuity without breaking.

[0082] Despite Figure 4The diagram shows the third spacer 160' overlapping with two edges of the third opening unit OA3, but the third spacer 160' can be configured to overlap with only one edge of the third opening unit OA3. That is, the shape of the third spacer 160' is not limited if the top surface of the connecting electrode 132' is exposed to the outside such that the connecting electrode 132' and the cathode 136 are in contact with each other in the third opening unit OA3.

[0083] Furthermore, the third spacer 160' may have a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or other polygonal shapes, but is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the third spacer 160' may have the same shape and the same dimensions as the first spacer 150 and the second spacer 160, but is not limited thereto.

[0084] The first spacer 150, the second spacer 160, and the third spacer 160' can be formed of a transparent organic insulating material. For example, the first spacer 150, the second spacer 160, and the third spacer 160' can be formed of one of polyimide, acrylic acid, epoxy resin, siloxane resin, and benzocyclobutene (BCB). The first spacer 150, the second spacer 160, and the third spacer 160' can be formed simultaneously by a photolithography process after the first opening unit OA1, the second opening unit OA2, and the third opening unit OA3 are formed in the embankment layer 140. Therefore, the first spacer 150, the second spacer 160, and the third spacer 160' can be formed of the same material, and the heights of the first spacer 150, the second spacer 160, and the third spacer 160' can be equal to each other. The method of forming the first spacer 150, the second spacer 160, and the third spacer 160' using a photolithography process will be described below.

[0085] A first spacer 150 is disposed on the embankment 140, and a second spacer 160 and a third spacer 160' can be configured such that a portion thereof is positioned on the embankment 140 from inside the third opening unit OA3 and the first opening unit OA1. Even if the first spacer 150, the second spacer 160, and the third spacer 160' are formed to have the same height, the height to the top surface of the first spacer 150 is greater than the height to the top surface of the second spacer 160 or the top surface of the third spacer 160'. Specifically, refer to... Figure 3The difference d1 between the height of the top surface of the first spacer 150 and the height of the top surface of the second spacer 160 can be from 1.0 μm to 3.0 μm. When the difference d1 is less than 1.0 μm, the first spacer 150 may not support the mask. Furthermore, during the formation of the organic light-emitting layer 134, a portion of the mask comes into contact with the top surface of the second spacer 160, which may introduce foreign matter. Additionally, when the difference d1 exceeds 3.0 μm, the total thickness of the display panel increases, thereby deteriorating the folding characteristics of the organic light-emitting display device.

[0086] When the organic light-emitting display device 100 is folded, the folding process can apply tensile and compressive stresses to the display device. The repeated folding continuously applies these tensile and compressive stresses, causing separation of the multiple layers constituting the display device, which can lead to defects in the display device. Specifically, among the layers constituting the organic light-emitting display device 100 for the foldable display device, the organic light-emitting diodes 130 are difficult to pattern to alleviate folding stress, and the organic light-emitting diodes 130 have weak adhesion, making them susceptible to separation.

[0087] As described above, to solve the problem of the organic light-emitting diode 130 separating due to folding, a method can be considered to form a spacer with an inverted conical shape on the dam layer 140 of the folding regions FA1 and FA2. When the organic light-emitting layer, cathode, and encapsulation layer are sequentially deposited on the spacer with the inverted conical shape, the organic light-emitting layer and cathode are not deposited on the side surface of the spacer, thus disrupting the continuity. However, the encapsulation layer is deposited on the side surface of the spacer to fix the organic light-emitting diode component. However, when the spacer with the inverted conical shape is provided on the dam layer 140, the impact resistance deteriorates. Specifically, in the inverted conical shape, the width increases as it moves upward, so that strong impacts can be applied to the corner of the top surface of the inverted conical shape. Specifically, when the foldable display device is folded, even by a small impact, strong stress is concentrated in the upper corner of the spacer with the inverted conical shape provided in the folding units FA1 and FA2. Therefore, even under a small impact, the organic light-emitting diode or inorganic layer provided on the spacer is easily separated.

[0088] In the organic light-emitting display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the opening unit of the dam layer 140 is formed to have an inverted conical shape. By doing so, when the organic light-emitting display device 100 is folded, the separation of the organic light-emitting diodes 130 disposed in the folding units FA1 and FA2 can be suppressed. That is, the first inorganic encapsulation layer 172 of the encapsulation layer 170 is directly bonded to the side surface of the dam layer 140 through the dam layer 140 having an inverted conical shape, so that the separation of the organic light-emitting diodes 130 disposed in the folding units FA1 and FA2 can be suppressed. However, when the dam layer 140 has an inverted conical shape, the organic light-emitting layer 134 and the cathode 136 are not deposited due to the exposed side surface of the dam layer 140, thus disrupting the continuity. Therefore, in order to apply electrons to the cathode 136 of the emitting region, the second spacer portion 160 having a conical shape is provided to overlap with the edge of the opening unit. By doing so, the separation problem of the organic light-emitting diodes 130 can be solved, and an organic light-emitting display device with excellent shock resistance during folding can be provided.

[0089] Figure 5 This is an enlarged plan view of an organic light-emitting display device according to another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. Except for the shape of the second opening unit OA2', Figure 5 The organic light-emitting display device 200 shown is... Figures 1 to 4 The organic light-emitting display device 100 shown is substantially the same. Therefore, descriptions of repeated parts will be omitted.

[0090] Reference Figure 5 Multiple second opening units OA2' are formed. Each second opening unit OA2' is formed to correspond to each of sub-pixels SP1, SP2, SP3, and SP4. The second opening unit OA2' is located in the first direction of the first opening unit OA1 of the corresponding sub-pixels SP1, SP2, SP3, and SP4, and all second opening units OA2' are positioned at the same location. Figure 5 In this configuration, all second opening units OA2' are positioned below the first opening unit OA1. The second opening units OA2' are positioned adjacent to the second spacing portion 160 located at the edge of the first opening unit OA1. (Refer to...) Figure 5 The second spacing portion 160 is configured to overlap with the lower edge of the edge of the first opening unit OA1, and the second opening unit OA2' is configured to be close to the lower edge of the first opening unit OA1 so as to be adjacent to the second spacing portion 160.

[0091] At this time, the second opening unit OA2' is configured to surround a portion of the second spacing portion 160 while being spaced apart from the second spacing portion 160. (See reference...) Figure 5The second opening unit OA2' has a V-shape with a bent portion. In this case, the inner surface of the second opening unit OA2', forming the acute angle of the bent portion, is positioned opposite the second spacer 160. That is, the inner surface of the second opening unit OA2' is positioned to surround a portion of the second spacer 160. Furthermore, the shape of the second opening unit OA2' is not limited to a shape with a bent portion fixed at a specific angle. That is, the second opening unit can be formed without limitation as long as it partially surrounds the second spacer 160. For example, the second opening unit OA2' may have a U-shape with its inner surface facing the second spacer 160.

[0092] and Figure 2 The second opening unit OA2 formed in the organic light-emitting display device 100 shown is different. Figure 5 The second opening unit OA2' formed in the illustrated organic light-emitting display device 200 has a V-shape and is spaced apart from the second spacer 160 to partially surround the second spacer 160. By utilizing the structure in which the lower portion of the second opening unit OA2' is connected by a bent portion, the distance between the second spacer 160 of one sub-pixel and the second spacer 160 of another sub-pixel can be increased, which is the path for lateral current. (See reference...) Figure 5 The lateral current moving from the first opening unit OA1 of the first sub-pixel SP1 through the second spacing portion 160 needs to pass through the second opening unit OA2', which has a V-shape, located between the first sub-pixel SP1 and the third sub-pixel SP3, and then through the second spacing portion 160 of the third sub-pixel SP3 to reach the third sub-pixel SP3. Therefore, the lateral current does not move the shortest distance between the second spacing portion 160 of the first sub-pixel SP1 and the second spacing portion 160 of the third sub-pixel SP3, but rather needs to avoid the second opening unit OA2'. That is, the path of the lateral current between adjacent sub-pixels can be increased, which can suppress problems caused by the lateral current.

[0093] Figures 6 to 7 This is a view used to illustrate an organic light-emitting display device according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6 This is an enlarged plan view of an organic light-emitting display device according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 It is along Figure 6 The cross-sectional view taken from line III-III'. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The illustrated organic light-emitting display device 300 also includes a different placement structure formed as a groove EH extending in one direction from the first opening unit OA1 and having a second spacing portion 360. In addition, the organic light-emitting display device 300 and... Figure 5The organic light-emitting display device 200 shown is basically the same. Therefore, descriptions of repeated parts will be omitted.

[0094] In another exemplary embodiment of the organic light-emitting display device 300 according to this disclosure, the first opening unit OA1 further includes a groove EH extending in one direction from one edge. (Refer to...) Figure 6 and Figure 7 The groove EH has an opening shape that extends downward (towards the Y-axis) from the lower edge of the edge of the first opening unit OA1, which has a first width W1, to a second width W2. That is, the groove EH forms an additional opening unit that protrudes from the first opening unit OA1 into the non-emission region by the second width W2.

[0095] Despite Figure 6 The diagram shows that the groove EH has a polygonal shape including a semicircle, but the groove EH can have a circular shape, an elliptical shape or various polygonal shapes, but is not limited to these.

[0096] In another exemplary embodiment of the organic light-emitting display device 300 according to this disclosure, the second spacer 360 is configured to overlap with the groove EH. Similar to... Figures 1 to 4 The organic light-emitting display device 100 shown has a second spacer 360 that overlaps with a portion of the edge of the first opening unit OA1, so that the cathode 136 can remain continuous within the first opening unit OA1 without being interrupted. Specifically, refer to... Figure 6 and Figure 7 The second spacer 360 is configured to overlap with the edge of the groove EH. The second spacer 360 may be configured to continuously contact a portion of the top surface of the anode 132 disposed in the groove EH, a portion of the side surface of the embankment 140 exposed by the groove EH, and a portion of the top surface of the embankment 140 adjacent to the groove EH.

[0097] Despite Figure 6 The diagram shows that the second spacer 360 has a quadrilateral shape, but the second spacer 360 may have a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or other polygonal shapes, but is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the area of ​​the second spacer 360 overlapping the groove EH is not limited.

[0098] The second spacer 360 has a conical shape, such that the organic light-emitting layer 134 and cathode 136, which are interrupted by the inverted conical dam 140, can be provided along the top surface of the anode 132 of the first opening unit OA1, the side and top surfaces of the second spacer 360 provided in the groove EH, and the top surface of the dam 140 while maintaining continuity without interruption.

[0099] and Figure 5Compared to the organic light-emitting display device 200 shown, Figure 6 The illustrated organic light-emitting display device 300 also includes a groove EH extending from the edge of the first opening unit OA1 and projecting in a first direction. Therefore, the second spacer 360 can be formed without limiting the area of ​​the emission region defined by the first opening unit OA1.

[0100] Figures 8A to 8F This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing an organic light-emitting display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0101] First, refer to Figure 8A Thin-film transistors 120 are formed on a flexible substrate 110 using multiple masking processes. Next, an organic insulating material, such as photoacrylic acid, is integrally coated onto the flexible substrate 110, and a planarization layer 118, including contact holes, is then formed using a photolithography process. Next, a first metal layer is integrally deposited on the planarization layer 118, and a patterned anode 132 is then formed using photolithography and etching processes. Although Figure 8A The electrode is not shown, but it can be formed from the first metal layer in the non-display area NDA by means of subsequent photolithography and etching processes.

[0102] Next, refer to Figure 8B A first photoresist layer 145 is formed on the planarization layer 118 where the anode 132 is formed. The first photoresist layer 145 is formed of a negative photoresist. A negative photoresist is a photoresist that significantly reduces the solubility of its exposed portion in the developer by exposure. When the negative photoresist is developed, a pattern in which the unexposed portions have been removed is obtained.

[0103] As described above, the dam layer 140 can preferably be formed of a material with high light absorption to suppress color mixing between adjacent sub-pixels SP. Therefore, the first photoresist layer 145 can also include a black pigment. For example, the black pigment can be selected from carbon black, titanium black TiNxOy, Cu-Mn-Fe based black pigment, lactam black, perylene black, and aniline black, or a mixture of red, blue, and green pigments can be used as the black pigment.

[0104] After the first photoresist layer 145 is formed with a first mask MM1, an exposure process, which is a photolithography process, is performed. The first mask MM1 is composed of a transmission region M1 and a blocking region M2. The first photoresist layer 145 corresponding to the transmission region M1 forms a dam layer 140 by means of a subsequent exposure process, and the first photoresist layer 145 corresponding to the blocking region M2 is removed by a subsequent exposure process to form an opening unit.

[0105] Next, refer to Figure 8CThe first photoresist layer 145, which has undergone the exposure process, is reacted with a developer to remove the first photoresist layer 145 in the light-blocking area. Next, a baking process, which is a heating process, is performed to form a first opening unit OA1 and a second opening unit OA2 on the first photoresist layer 145 corresponding to the blocking area M2 during the exposure process, and to form a dam layer 140 with an inverted conical shape on the first photoresist layer 145 corresponding to the transmission area M1. The top surface of the anode 132 is exposed by means of the first opening unit OA1, and the planarization layer 118 is exposed by means of the second opening unit OA2. Although in Figure 8C It is not shown in the figure, but the third opening unit is formed in the non-display area, and the connection electrode can be exposed through the third opening unit.

[0106] Next, refer to Figure 8D A second photoresist layer 155 is formed on the embankment layer 140, which includes the first opening unit OA1 and the second opening unit OA2. The second photoresist layer 155 is formed of a positive photoresist. A positive photoresist is a photoresist whose solubility in the developer increases with exposure of its exposed portion. When the positive photoresist is developed, a pattern from which the exposed portion has been removed is obtained.

[0107] A second photoresist layer 155 can be coated and sintered to a predetermined thickness to fill both the first opening unit OA1 and the second opening unit OA2 and to planarize the embankment layer 140.

[0108] Next, after the second mask MM2 is formed on the second photoresist layer 155, an exposure process, which is a photolithography process, is performed. At this time, the second mask MM2 is a halftone mask and is composed of masks with different light transmittance. That is, the second mask MM2 is composed of a transmissive region M1, a blocking region M2, and a semi-transmissive region M3. The second photoresist layer 155 corresponding to the transmissive region M1 is removed by a subsequent development process, and the second photoresist layer 155 corresponding to the blocking region M2 forms a first spacer 150 by means of a subsequent development process. Furthermore, the second photoresist layer 155 corresponding to the semi-transmissive region M3 forms a second spacer 160 by means of a subsequent development process. Therefore, the semi-transmissive region M3 of the second mask MM2 is set to overlap with a portion of the edge of the first opening unit OA1 of the embankment layer 140.

[0109] Next, refer to Figure 8EThe second photoresist layer 155, after undergoing the exposure process, reacts with the developer to remove the second photoresist layer 155 in the exposed area. Next, a baking process, which is a heating process, is performed, causing the second photoresist layer 155 corresponding to the transmissive region M1 to react with the developer and be removed during the exposure process. The second photoresist layer 155 corresponding to the blocking region M2 does not react with the developer to form a first spacer 150 with a conical shape, and the second photoresist layer 155 corresponding to the semi-transmissive region M3 forms a second spacer 160 with a conical shape. As described above, the first spacer 150 and the second spacer 160 can be formed simultaneously using the same photoresist during the photolithography process. Although in Figure 8E Not shown, but the third spacer may be formed together with the second spacer 160, the third spacer overlapping with a portion of the edge of the third opening unit by means of the semi-transparent region M3 of the second mask MM2.

[0110] Next, refer to Figure 8F An organic light-emitting layer 134 and a cathode 136 are formed on a dam layer 140, a first spacer 150, a second spacer 160, and a third spacer 160', including a first opening unit OA1, a second opening unit OA2, and a third opening unit OA3. The organic light-emitting layer 134 and the cathode 136 are separated by the dam layer 140, which has an inverted conical shape and is exposed by the first opening unit OA1 and the second opening unit OA2. However, the organic light-emitting layer 134 and the cathode 136 can be continuously disposed on the top surface of the dam layer 140 along the side and top surfaces of the second spacer 160, which has a conical shape and overlaps with the edge of the first opening unit OA1. Next, a first inorganic encapsulation layer 172 of the encapsulation layer 170 is formed to bond to the exposed side surfaces of the dam layer 140 and fixes the organic light-emitting layer 134 and the cathode 136.

[0111] Exemplary implementations of this disclosure can also be described as follows:

[0112] According to one aspect of this disclosure, an organic light-emitting display device is provided. The organic light-emitting display device includes: a substrate including a display area comprising a plurality of sub-pixels and a non-display area surrounding the display area; a thin-film transistor disposed on the substrate; a planarization layer disposed on the thin-film transistor; an anode disposed on the planarization layer and corresponding to each sub-pixel; a dam layer disposed on the planarization layer and including a first opening unit exposing at least a portion of the anode and a second opening unit spaced apart from the first opening unit; a first spacer portion disposed on the dam layer; and a second spacer portion continuously disposed on the anode and the dam layer to overlap with a portion of the edge of the first opening unit. The first and second opening units are formed such that the dam layer has an inverted conical shape, and the second spacer portion has a conical shape.

[0113] The second spacer can contact a portion of the top surface of the anode and the side surface of the embankment located in the first opening unit.

[0114] The first spacer may have a conical shape.

[0115] The first and second spacers can be made of the same material.

[0116] The embankment can be formed by a negative photoresist, and the first and second spacers can be formed by a positive photoresist.

[0117] The difference between the height of the top surface of the first spacer and the height of the top surface of the second spacer can be from 1.0 μm to 3.0 μm.

[0118] The organic light-emitting display device may further include an organic light-emitting layer and a cathode disposed on the anode. The organic light-emitting layer and the cathode may contact the side surface of the embankment, thereby disrupting the continuity, and the organic light-emitting layer and the cathode are continuously disposed along the top surface of the anode, the side surface and the top surface of the second spacer, and the top surface of the embankment.

[0119] The organic light-emitting display device may further include an encapsulation layer disposed on the dam layer, the first spacer, and the second spacer. The encapsulation layer may include a first inorganic encapsulation layer, an organic encapsulation layer, and a second inorganic encapsulation layer, and the first inorganic encapsulation layer may contact the exposed side surface of the dam layer and may be configured to cover the side surface and top surface of the first spacer and the second spacer.

[0120] The second opening unit can be spaced apart from the first and second spacing portions and can be disposed between sub-pixels.

[0121] The first opening unit may also include a groove extending from one edge in a first direction, and the second spacer is configured to overlap with a portion of the groove.

[0122] All the grooves of the first opening unit corresponding to each sub-pixel can be formed to extend in the same direction.

[0123] Multiple second opening units can be provided to correspond to sub-pixels, and each of the second opening units can be spaced apart from the groove of the first opening unit to surround the groove.

[0124] Multiple second opening units can be provided to correspond to sub-pixels, and each of the second opening units can be spaced apart from the groove of the first opening unit and has a bent portion configured to be opposite to the groove.

[0125] The embankment located in the non-display area may also include a third opening unit that exposes at least a portion of the connection electrode connected to the signal line, and the organic light-emitting display device may also include a third spacer that is continuously disposed on the connection electrode and the embankment to overlap with a portion of the edge of the third opening unit.

[0126] The third opening unit is formed such that the embankment layer can have an inverted conical shape, and the third interval can have a conical shape.

[0127] Although exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present disclosure is not limited thereto and can be implemented in many different forms without departing from the technical concept of the present disclosure. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the technical concept of the present disclosure. The scope of the technical concept of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Therefore, it should be understood that the above exemplary embodiments are illustrative in all respects and do not limit the present disclosure. The scope of protection of the present disclosure should be interpreted based on the appended claims, and all technical concepts within the scope of their equivalents should be interpreted as falling within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An organic light-emitting display device, comprising: A substrate, the substrate including a display area comprising a plurality of sub-pixels and a non-display area surrounding the display area; Thin-film transistors disposed on the substrate; A planarization layer disposed on the thin-film transistor; An anode is disposed on the planarization layer and corresponding to each sub-pixel; An organic light-emitting layer disposed on the anode; A cathode disposed on the organic light-emitting layer; A dam layer is disposed on the planarization layer and includes a first opening unit that exposes at least a portion of the anode and a second opening unit spaced apart from the first opening unit; The first interval is provided on the embankment layer; A second spacer is continuously disposed on the anode and the embankment to overlap with a portion of the edge of the first opening unit; as well as An encapsulation layer is disposed on the dike layer, the first spacer, and the second spacer. The first opening unit and the second opening unit are formed such that the embankment has an inverted conical shape, and the second interval has a conical shape.

2. The organic light emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein, The second spacer is in contact with a portion of the top surface of the anode and with the side surface of the dam layer located in the first opening unit.

3. The organic light-emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first spacer portion has a tapered shape.

4. The organic light-emitting display device according to claim 3, wherein, The first spacer and the second spacer are made of the same material.

5. The organic light-emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein, The embankment is formed of a negative photoresist, and the first and second spacers are formed of a positive photoresist.

6. The organic light-emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein, The difference between the height of the top surface of the first spacer and the height of the top surface of the second spacer is 1.0 μm to 3.0 μm.

7. The organic light-emitting display device according to claim 1, in, The organic light-emitting layer and the cathode are in contact with the side surface of the dam layer, thereby disrupting the continuity, and the organic light-emitting layer and the cathode are continuously disposed along the top surface of the anode, the side surface and the top surface of the second spacer, and the top surface of the dam layer.

8. The organic light-emitting display device according to claim 7, in, The encapsulation layer includes a first inorganic encapsulation layer, an organic encapsulation layer, and a second inorganic encapsulation layer. The first inorganic encapsulation layer is in contact with the exposed side surface of the dam layer, and the first inorganic encapsulation layer is configured to cover the side and top surfaces of the first and second spacers.

9. The organic light-emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein, The second opening unit is spaced apart from the first spacing portion and the second spacing portion, and is disposed between the sub-pixels.

10. The organic light-emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first opening unit also includes a groove extending from one edge in a first direction, and the second spacing portion is configured to overlap with a portion of the groove.

11. The organic light-emitting display device according to claim 10, wherein, The grooves of the first opening unit corresponding to each sub-pixel are all formed to extend in the same direction.

12. The organic light-emitting display device according to claim 11, wherein, A plurality of second opening units are provided to correspond to the sub-pixel, and each of the second opening units is spaced apart from the groove of the first opening unit to surround the groove.

13. The organic light-emitting display device according to claim 11, wherein, A plurality of second opening units are provided to correspond to the sub-pixel, and each of the second opening units is spaced apart from the groove of the first opening unit and has a bent portion configured to be opposite to the groove.

14. The organic light-emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein, The embankment located in the non-display area further includes a third opening unit that exposes at least a portion of the connection electrodes connected to the signal lines, and The organic light-emitting display device further includes a third spacer portion, which is continuously disposed on the connecting electrode and the embankment layer to overlap with a portion of the edge of the third opening unit.

15. The organic light-emitting display device according to claim 14, wherein, The third opening unit is formed such that the embankment has an inverted conical shape, and the third interval has a conical shape.

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