Touch display devices

Abstract

This application relates to touch display devices. A touch display device is provided that senses touch from a user and / or tool. In the touch display device, the upper electrode of a light-emitting device may include a first electrode portion overlapping with a light-emitting area and a second electrode region spaced apart from the first electrode region. A touch line may be disposed on a package element covering the light-emitting device, and the touch line may include a portion overlapping the second electrode region. Therefore, in the touch display device, the fabrication process of the components for sensing touch can be simplified.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a touch display device, and more specifically, to a touch display device that senses the touch of a user and / or a tool. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, electronic devices such as monitors, TVs, laptops, and digital cameras include display devices capable of displaying images. For example, a display device may include light-emitting devices. Each light-emitting device can emit light that displays a specific color. For example, each light-emitting device may include a light-emitting layer disposed between two light-emitting electrodes.

[0003] A display device can be a touch display device that senses the touch of a user and / or tool and applies a specific signal. For example, a touch display device may include a touch structure independently controlled by a light-emitting device. The touch structure may be disposed on the light-emitting device. For example, the touch structure may include touch electrodes disposed side-by-side on a package element covering the light-emitting device. The touch electrodes may be connected in a first direction or in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. Therefore, in a touch display device, the process of forming the touch structure can be complex. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, this disclosure relates to a touch display device that substantially eliminates one or more problems caused by the limitations and disadvantages of related technologies.

[0005] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a touch display device that simplifies the process of forming components for sensing the touch of a user and / or tool.

[0006] Other advantages, objects, and features of this disclosure will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following, or may be learned from practice of this disclosure. The objects and other advantages of this disclosure may be realized and obtained through the written description and its claims, as well as the structures particularly pointed out in the accompanying drawings.

[0007] To achieve these objectives and other advantages, and in accordance with the purposes of this disclosure, as implemented and broadly described herein, a touch display device including a device substrate is provided. The device substrate includes a light-emitting region. Pixel electrodes and a retaining layer are disposed on the device substrate. The pixel electrodes are disposed on the light-emitting region of the device substrate. The retaining layer covers the edges of the pixel electrodes. A light-emitting layer is disposed on the portion of the pixel electrodes exposed by the retaining layer. An upper electrode includes a first electrode region and a second electrode region. The first electrode region is disposed on the light-emitting region. The second electrode region is spaced apart from the first electrode region. A first connecting line is disposed between the device substrate and the retaining layer. The first connecting line is electrically connected to the first electrode region. A second connecting line electrically connected to the second electrode region is spaced apart from the first connecting line. A package element is disposed on the upper electrode. A touch line is disposed on the package element. The touch line is spaced apart from the light-emitting region. The touch line includes a portion overlapping the second electrode region.

[0008] The signal applied to the second electrode region of the upper electrode is different from the signal applied to the first electrode region of the upper electrode.

[0009] The first electrode region of the upper electrode is selectively connected to the touch sensing component via a first link line.

[0010] The packaged element includes a first packaged layer, a second packaged layer, and a third packaged layer stacked in sequence, wherein the second packaged layer comprises a material different from the materials of the first packaged layer and the third packaged layer.

[0011] At least one encapsulation dam is disposed on the device substrate, wherein a first encapsulation layer and a third encapsulation layer extend along the surface of the encapsulation dam, and a second encapsulation layer is disposed on the portion defined by the encapsulation dam between the first encapsulation layer and the third encapsulation layer.

[0012] The upper electrode and the touch line can extend in different directions.

[0013] The separator can be disposed on the dike insulation layer. The separator can be inverted conical in shape. The separator can be disposed between the first electrode region and the second electrode region of the upper electrode.

[0014] The separator can surround the light-emitting area.

[0015] The first electrode region can have a larger size than the light-emitting region.

[0016] The second electrode region may include the same material or substantially the same material as the first electrode region.

[0017] The second connection line can be placed between the device substrate and the dike insulation layer.

[0018] The second link may include the same material as or substantially the same material as the first link.

[0019] The second connecting line can extend parallel to the first connecting line.

[0020] Each of the first and second connecting lines may include a portion that overlaps with the touch line.

[0021] It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory, and are intended to provide further explanation of the claimed inventive concept. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The accompanying drawings, included to provide a further understanding of this disclosure and incorporated into and constituting a part of this application, illustrate embodiments of the disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure. In the drawings:

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a touch display device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A magnified view of region K in the image;

[0025] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Enlarged view of region R in the image;

[0026] Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 The image captured by I-I';

[0027] Figure 5 It is along Figure 2 The image captured from section II-II';

[0028] Figure 6 It is along Figure 3 The image captured from section III-III'; and

[0029] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating a touch display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Throughout the accompanying drawings and detailed description, unless otherwise stated, the same reference numerals shall be understood to refer to the same elements, features, and structures. Detailed Implementation

[0031] In the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, the details relating to the above-described objectives, technical configurations, and operational effects of embodiments of the present disclosure will become clear. The drawings illustrate some embodiments of the present disclosure. Embodiments of the present disclosure are provided here to satisfactorily convey the technical spirit of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art, and therefore, the present disclosure may be implemented in other forms, not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0032] Furthermore, throughout the specification, identical or very similar elements may be represented by the same reference numerals, and for convenience, the length and thickness of layers and regions may be exaggerated in the drawings. It should be understood that when a first element is referred to as being "on" a second element, although the first element may be disposed on the second element in a manner that contacts the second element, a third element may also be inserted between the first and second elements.

[0033] Here, terms such as “first” and “second” may be used to distinguish one element from another. However, without departing from the technical spirit of this disclosure, the first element and the second element may be named arbitrarily as is convenient for those skilled in the art.

[0034] The terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. For example, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, elements described in the singular are intended to include multiple elements. Furthermore, in this disclosure, the terms “comprising” and “including” will also be understood to specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0035] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the exemplary embodiments pertain. It will also be understood that, unless expressly defined herein, terms such as those defined in common dictionaries shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant field and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense.

[0036] (Implementation Method)

[0037] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a touch display device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A magnified view of region K in the image. Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A magnified view of region R in the image. Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 The image captured by I-I'. Figure 5 It is along Figure 2 The image captured from II-II'. Figure 6 It is along Figure 3 The image captured from section III-III'.

[0038] Reference Figures 1 to 6 A touch display device according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include a display panel DP and driving components DD, SD, TD, and TC. The driving components DD, SD, TD, and TC may provide various signals to the display panel DP for realizing images. For example, the driving components DD, SD, TD, and TC may include a data driver DD that applies data signals, a scan driver SD that applies scan signals, and a timing controller TC. The timing controller TC may apply digital video data and source timing control signals to the data driver DD, and apply a clock signal, an inverted clock signal, and a start signal to the scan driver SD.

[0039] The display panel DP can generate images for the user. For example, the display panel DP may include a light-emitting device 300 on the device substrate 100. The device substrate 100 may have a multilayer structure. For example, the device substrate 100 may have a stacked structure of a first substrate layer 101, a substrate insulating layer 102, and a second substrate layer 103. The second substrate layer 103 may include the same material or substantially the same material as the first substrate layer 101. For example, the first substrate layer 101 and the second substrate layer 103 may include a polymer material such as polyimide (PI). The substrate insulating layer 102 may include an insulating material. Therefore, in the touch display device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, the device substrate 100 can have high flexibility. Therefore, in the touch display device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, damage to the light-emitting device 300 due to external impact can be prevented.

[0040] The device substrate 100 may include a light-emitting region EA and a non-light-emitting region NEA. The non-light-emitting region NEA may be disposed outside the light-emitting region EA. For example, each of the light-emitting regions EA may be surrounded by a non-light-emitting region NEA.

[0041] Driving circuits can be disposed on the device substrate 100. Each of the driving circuits can be electrically connected to one of the light-emitting devices 300. Each of the driving circuits can be controlled by signals transmitted from driving components DD, SD, TD, and TC. For example, each driving circuit can provide a driving current corresponding to the data signal to the corresponding light-emitting device 300 according to the scan signal. Each driving circuit can include at least one thin-film transistor 200. For example, the thin-film transistor 200 can include a semiconductor pattern 210, a gate insulating layer 220, a gate electrode 230, an interlayer insulating layer 240, a source electrode 250, and a drain electrode 260.

[0042] Semiconductor pattern 210 may include a semiconductor material. For example, semiconductor pattern 210 may include amorphous silicon (a-Si) or polycrystalline silicon (poly-Si). Semiconductor pattern 210 may be an oxide semiconductor. For example, semiconductor pattern 210 may include a metal oxide such as IGZO. Semiconductor pattern 210 may include a source region, a drain region, and a channel region. The channel region may be disposed between the source region and the drain region. The source region and the drain region may have a lower resistance than the channel region.

[0043] A gate insulating layer 220 may be disposed on the semiconductor pattern 210. The gate insulating layer 220 may extend beyond the semiconductor pattern 210. For example, one side of the semiconductor pattern 210 may be covered by the gate insulating layer 220. The gate insulating layer 220 may include an insulating material. For example, the gate insulating layer 220 may include silicon oxide (SiO) and / or silicon nitride (SiN). The gate insulating layer 220 may include a material having a high dielectric constant. For example, the gate insulating layer 220 may include a high-k material such as hafnium oxide (HfO). The gate insulating layer 220 may have a multilayer structure.

[0044] Gate electrode 230 may be disposed on gate insulating layer 220. Gate electrode 230 may include a conductive material. For example, gate electrode 230 may include metals such as aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), molybdenum (Mo), and tungsten (W). Gate electrode 230 may be insulated from semiconductor pattern 210 through gate insulating layer 220. Gate electrode 230 may overlap with channel region of semiconductor pattern 210. For example, channel region of semiconductor pattern 210 may have conductivity corresponding to voltage applied to gate electrode 230.

[0045] An interlayer insulating layer 240 may be disposed on the gate electrode 230. The interlayer insulating layer 240 may extend beyond the gate electrode 230. For example, one side of the gate electrode 230 may be covered by the interlayer insulating layer 240. The interlayer insulating layer 240 may be in direct contact with the gate insulating layer 220 outside the gate electrode 230. The interlayer insulating layer 240 may include an insulating material. For example, the interlayer insulating layer 240 may include silicon oxide (SiO).

[0046] Source electrode 250 may be disposed on interlayer insulating layer 240. Source electrode 250 may include a conductive material. For example, source electrode 250 may include metals such as aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), molybdenum (Mo), and tungsten (W). Source electrode 250 may be insulated from gate electrode 230 through interlayer insulating layer 240. For example, source electrode 250 may include a material different from that of gate electrode 230. Source electrode 250 may be electrically connected to the source region of semiconductor pattern 210. For example, gate insulating layer 220 and interlayer insulating layer 240 may include source contact holes that partially expose the source region of semiconductor pattern 210. Source electrode 250 may include a portion overlapping with the source region of semiconductor pattern 210. For example, source electrode 250 may be in direct contact with the source region of semiconductor pattern 210 within the source contact hole.

[0047] Drain electrode 260 may be disposed on interlayer insulating layer 240. Drain electrode 260 may include a conductive material. For example, drain electrode 260 may include metals such as aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), molybdenum (Mo), and tungsten (W). Drain electrode 260 may be insulated from gate electrode 230 through interlayer insulating layer 240. For example, drain electrode 260 may include a material different from that of gate electrode 230. Drain electrode 260 may include the same or substantially the same material as source electrode 250. Drain electrode 260 may be electrically connected to the drain region of semiconductor pattern 210. Drain electrode 260 may be spaced apart from source electrode 250. For example, gate insulating layer 220 and interlayer insulating layer 240 may include drain contact holes that partially expose the drain region of semiconductor pattern 210. Drain electrode 260 may include a portion overlapping with the drain region of semiconductor pattern 210. For example, drain electrode 260 may be in direct contact with the drain region of semiconductor pattern 210 within a drain contact hole.

[0048] A first buffer layer 110 may be disposed between the device substrate 100 and the driving circuit. During the process of forming the thin-film transistor 200, the first buffer layer 110 can prevent contamination caused by the device substrate 100. For example, the first buffer layer 110 may completely cover the upper surface of the device substrate 100 facing the light-emitting device 300. The first buffer layer 110 may include an insulating material. For example, the first buffer layer 110 may include silicon oxide (SiO) and / or silicon nitride (SiN). The first buffer layer 110 may have a multilayer structure.

[0049] A light-blocking pattern 115 may be disposed between the first buffer layer 110 and each thin-film transistor 200. The light-blocking pattern 115 can prevent characteristic changes of each thin-film transistor 200 due to external light. For example, the light-blocking pattern 115 may include a portion overlapping with the semiconductor pattern 210 of each thin-film transistor 200. The light-blocking pattern 115 may include a material that blocks or absorbs light. For example, the light-blocking pattern 115 may include metals such as aluminum (Al), silver (Ag), and copper (Cu).

[0050] The light-blocking pattern 115 may be insulated from the semiconductor pattern 210 of each thin-film transistor 200. For example, a second buffer layer 120 may be disposed between the light-blocking pattern 115 and the thin-film transistor 200. The second buffer layer 120 may include an insulating material. For example, the second buffer layer 120 may include silicon oxide (SiO) or silicon nitride (SiN). The second buffer layer 120 may include the same or substantially the same material as the first buffer layer 110. The second buffer layer 120 may extend beyond the light-blocking pattern 115. For example, the second buffer layer 120 may be in direct contact with the first buffer layer 110 outside the light-blocking pattern 115.

[0051] A lower passivation layer 130 can be disposed on the drive circuit. The lower passivation layer 130 can prevent the drive circuit from being damaged by external shocks and moisture. For example, the upper surface of each thin-film transistor 200 opposite to the device substrate 100 can be covered by the lower passivation layer 130. The lower passivation layer 130 may include an insulating material. For example, the lower passivation layer 130 may include inorganic insulating materials such as silicon oxide (SiO) and silicon nitride (SiN).

[0052] The lower planarization layer 140 and the upper planarization layer 150 may be sequentially stacked on the lower passivation layer 130. The lower planarization layer 140 and the upper planarization layer 150 can eliminate thickness differences caused by the driving circuit. For example, the upper surface of the upper planarization layer 150 facing the light-emitting device 300 may be a flat surface. The lower planarization layer 140 and the upper planarization layer 150 may include insulating materials. For example, the lower planarization layer 140 and the upper planarization layer 150 may include organic insulating materials. The upper planarization layer 150 may include a material different from that of the lower planarization layer 140. Therefore, in the touch display device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, thickness differences caused by the driving circuit can be effectively eliminated.

[0053] The light-emitting device 300 can be disposed on the upper planarization layer 150. Each light-emitting device 300 can emit light displaying a specific color. For example, each of the light-emitting devices 300 may include a pixel electrode 310, a light-emitting layer 320 and an upper electrode 330 sequentially stacked on the upper planarization layer 150.

[0054] Pixel electrode 310 may include a conductive material. Pixel electrode 310 may have high reflectivity. For example, pixel electrode 310 may include metals such as aluminum (Al) and silver (Ag). Pixel electrode 310 may have a multilayer structure. For example, pixel electrode 310 may have a structure in which reflective electrodes, including metals, are disposed between transparent electrodes comprising transparent conductive materials such as ITO and IZO.

[0055] The light-emitting layer 320 can generate light with a brightness corresponding to the voltage difference between the pixel electrode 310 and the upper electrode 330. For example, the light-emitting layer 320 may include a light-emitting material layer (EML) containing a light-emitting material. The light-emitting material may include organic materials, inorganic materials, or mixed materials. For example, the touch display device according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be an organic light-emitting display device including a light-emitting material layer containing an organic material. The light-emitting layer 320 may have a multilayer structure. For example, the light-emitting layer 320 may include at least one of a hole injection layer (HIL), a hole transport layer (HTL), an electron transport layer (ETL), and an electron injection layer (EIL). Therefore, in the touch display device according to embodiments of the present disclosure, the luminous efficiency of each light-emitting device 300 can be improved.

[0056] The upper electrode 330 may include a conductive material. The upper electrode 330 may include a material different from that of the pixel electrode 310. The upper electrode 330 may have a higher transmittance than the pixel electrode 310. For example, the upper electrode 330 may be a transparent electrode comprising a transparent conductive material such as ITO and IZO. Therefore, in a touch display device according to an embodiment of this disclosure, light generated from the light-emitting layer 320 can pass through the upper electrode 330 and be emitted to the outside.

[0057] The light-emitting device 300 may overlap with the light-emitting region EA of the device substrate 100. For example, the pixel electrode 310, light-emitting layer 320, and upper electrode 330 of each light-emitting device 300 may be stacked on one of the light-emitting regions EA. A dam insulating layer 160 may be disposed on the upper planarization layer 150. The dam insulating layer 160 may include an insulating material. For example, the dam insulating layer 160 may include an organic insulating material. The dam insulating layer 160 may include a material different from the materials of the lower planarization layer 140 and the upper planarization layer 150. The dam insulating layer 160 may define the light-emitting region EA. For example, the dam insulating layer 160 may cover the edge of the pixel electrode 310 of each light-emitting device 300. The light-emitting layer 320 and upper electrode 330 of each light-emitting device 300 may be stacked on the portion of the corresponding pixel electrode 310 exposed by the dam insulating layer 160. The non-light-emitting region NEA of the device substrate 100 may overlap with the dam insulating layer 160.

[0058] Each pixel electrode 310 of the light-emitting device 300 can be electrically connected to one of the thin-film transistors 200. An intermediate electrode 510 can be disposed between the lower planarization layer 140 and the upper planarization layer 150. The intermediate electrode 510 can include a conductive material. For example, the intermediate electrode 510 can include metals such as aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), molybdenum (Mo), and tungsten (W). Each of the intermediate electrodes 510 can be electrically connected to a drain electrode 260 of one of the thin-film transistors 200 through the lower planarization layer 140. For example, the pixel electrode 310 of each light-emitting device 300 can be connected to the corresponding thin-film transistor 200 through one of the intermediate electrodes 510. Each of the intermediate electrodes 510 can include a portion overlapping with the drain electrode 260 of one of the thin-film transistors 200 and a portion overlapping with the pixel electrode 310 of one of the light-emitting devices 300. For example, the pixel electrode 310 of each light-emitting device 300 can be connected to the corresponding intermediate electrode 510 through the upper planarization layer 150.

[0059] The light emitted from each light-emitting device 300 can display a different color than the light emitted from adjacent light-emitting devices 300. For example, the light-emitting layer 320 of each light-emitting device 300 may include a material different from the material of the light-emitting layers 320 of adjacent light-emitting devices 300. The light-emitting layer 320 of each light-emitting device 300 may be spaced apart from the light-emitting layers 320 of adjacent light-emitting devices 300. For example, the light-emitting layer 320 of each light-emitting device 300 may include an end disposed on the insulating layer 160.

[0060] The voltage applied to the upper electrode 330 of each light-emitting device 300 can be the same as the voltage applied to the upper electrode 330 of the adjacent light-emitting device 300. For example, the upper electrode 330 of each light-emitting device 300 can be electrically connected to the upper electrode 330 of the adjacent light-emitting device 300. The upper electrode 330 of each light-emitting device 300 can comprise the same material or substantially the same material as the upper electrode 330 of the adjacent light-emitting device 300. For example, the upper electrode 330 of each light-emitting device 300 can be formed simultaneously with the upper electrode 330 of the adjacent light-emitting device 300.

[0061] Each upper electrode 330 may extend in a first direction. Each of the upper electrodes 330 may be spaced apart from adjacent upper electrodes 330 in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. For example, in a touch display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the upper electrodes 330 extending in the first direction may be arranged side by side in the second direction. Each upper electrode 330 may overlap with a plurality of light-emitting regions EA. For example, each of the upper electrodes 330 may include a first electrode region 330a overlapping with the light-emitting region EA and a second electrode region 330b disposed outside the light-emitting region EA. One of the first electrode regions 330a may be disposed on the light-emitting layer 320 of each light-emitting device 300. The second electrode region 330b may be disposed on the non-light-emitting region NEA of the device substrate 100. For example, the second electrode region 330b may be disposed on the insulating layer 160.

[0062] The second electrode region 330b can be separated from the first electrode region 330a. For example, a separator 175 can be disposed between the first electrode region 330a and the second electrode region 330b. Each of the separators 175 can have an inverted conical side surface. Therefore, in a touch display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first electrode region 330a and the second electrode region 330b of each upper electrode 330 can be formed simultaneously without additional patterning processes. For example, the first electrode region 330a and the second electrode region 330b of each upper electrode 330 can comprise the same material or substantially the same material. An electrode pattern 330p comprising the same material or substantially the same material as the first electrode region 330a and the second electrode region 330b can be disposed on the upper surface of each separator 175 opposite to the device substrate 100. The separators 175 can be disposed on the insulating layer 160. Each of the separators 175 can extend between one of the first electrode regions 330a and the second electrode region 330b. For example, each of the separators 175 can surround one of the light-emitting regions EA. The size of each first electrode region 330a can be larger than the size of the corresponding light-emitting region EA. Each of the first electrode regions 330a can be surrounded by a second electrode region 330b. Therefore, in the touch display device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, process efficiency can be improved.

[0063] The spacer 175 may include an insulating material. For example, the spacer 175 may include an organic insulating material. Each of the spacers 175 may have a multilayer structure. For example, each of the spacers 175 may have a stacked structure of multiple layers, which have etch selectivity.

[0064] The first link line 550 may be disposed between the lower planarization layer 140 and the upper planarization layer 150. The first electrode region 330a of each upper electrode 330 may be electrically connected to one of the first link lines 550. For example, the upper planarization layer 150 and the insulating layer 160 may include first electrode contact holes exposing a portion of each first link line 550. Each of the first electrode regions 330a may include a portion overlapping with one of the first electrode contact holes. For example, each of the first electrode regions 330a may be in direct contact with the corresponding first link line 550 through one of the first electrode contact holes. The first link line 550 may extend in a first direction. For example, each of the first electrode regions 330a may be connected to the same first link line 550 as the first electrode region 330a disposed adjacent to it in the first direction.

[0065] The first connecting line 550 may include a conductive material. For example, the first connecting line 550 may include metals such as aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), molybdenum (Mo), and tungsten (W). The first connecting line 550 may include the same or substantially the same material as the intermediate electrode 510. The first connecting line 550 may be insulated from the intermediate electrode 510. For example, the first connecting line 550 may be spaced apart from the intermediate electrode 510 in a second direction.

[0066] The second connecting line 520 may be disposed between the lower planarization layer 140 and the upper planarization layer 150. The second connecting line 520 may include a conductive material. For example, the second connecting line 520 may include metals such as aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), molybdenum (Mo), and tungsten (W). The second connecting line 520 may include the same or substantially the same material as the intermediate electrode 510 and the first connecting line 550. The second connecting line 520 may extend parallel to the first connecting line 550. For example, the second connecting line 520 may extend in a first direction. The second connecting line 520 may be spaced apart from the intermediate electrode 510 and the first connecting line 550.

[0067] Each of the second link lines 520 can be electrically connected to a second electrode region 330b of one of the upper electrodes 330. For example, the upper planarization layer 150 and the embankment insulating layer 160 may include second electrode contact holes exposing a portion of each second link line 520. The second electrode region 330b of each upper electrode 330 may include a portion overlapping with one of the second link lines 520. For example, the second electrode region 330b of each upper electrode 330 can be in direct contact with the corresponding second link line 520 through one of the second electrode contact holes. Therefore, in a touch display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the signal applied to the second electrode region 330b of each upper electrode 330 may be different from the signal applied to the first electrode region 330a of the corresponding upper electrode 330.

[0068] Encapsulation element 400 can be disposed on the upper electrode 330 and the separator 175. Encapsulation element 400 can prevent the light-emitting device 300 from being damaged by external impact and moisture. Encapsulation element 400 can have a multilayer structure. For example, encapsulation element 400 may include a first encapsulation layer 410, a second encapsulation layer 420, and a third encapsulation layer 430 stacked sequentially. The first encapsulation layer 410, the second encapsulation layer 420, and the third encapsulation layer 430 may include insulating materials. The second encapsulation layer 420 may include materials different from those of the first encapsulation layer 410 and the third encapsulation layer 430. For example, the first encapsulation layer 410 and the third encapsulation layer 430 may include inorganic insulating materials, while the second encapsulation layer 420 may include organic insulating materials. Therefore, in the touch display device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, damage to the light-emitting device 300 due to external impact and moisture can be effectively prevented. The thickness difference caused by the light-emitting device 300 and the separator 175 can be eliminated by the second encapsulation layer 420. For example, the upper surface of the package element 400 opposite to the device substrate 100 can be a flat surface. The inverted conical side surface of each separator 175 can be covered by the package element 400.

[0069] At least one encapsulation dam 106 may be disposed on the device substrate 100. The encapsulation dam 106 may block the flow of a second encapsulation layer 420 having relatively high fluidity. For example, the second encapsulation layer 420 may be disposed on a portion of the device substrate 100 defined by the encapsulation dam 106. The first encapsulation layer 410 and the third encapsulation layer 430 may extend along the surface of the encapsulation dam 106. For example, the third encapsulation layer 430 may be in direct contact with the first encapsulation layer 410 outside the encapsulation dam 106. The encapsulation dam 106 may include an insulating material. For example, the encapsulation dam 106 may include an organic insulating material. The encapsulation dam 106 may be disposed on the lower passivation layer 130. For example, the encapsulation dam 106 may include the same or substantially the same material as the material of the lower planarization layer 140 or the upper planarization layer 150. Therefore, in a touch display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, process efficiency can be improved.

[0070] The touch display device according to embodiments of this disclosure can sense touches from users and / or tools. For example, driving components DD, SD, TD, and TC may include a touch sensing component TD. A touch line 700 electrically connected to the touch sensing component TD and a covering insulating layer 800 disposed on the touch line 700 may be disposed on a package element 400. The touch line 700 may include a conductive material. For example, the touch line 700 may include metals such as chromium (Cr), molybdenum (Mo), and tungsten (W). A touch buffer layer 600 may be disposed between the package element 400 and the touch line 700. The touch buffer layer 600 can prevent damage to the light-emitting device 300 during the process of forming the touch line 700. The touch buffer layer 600 may include an insulating material. For example, the touch buffer layer 600 may include inorganic insulating materials such as silicon oxide (SiO) and silicon nitride (SiN). The covering insulating layer 800 may include an insulating material. The covering insulating layer 800 may include a material different from the material of the touch buffer layer 600. For example, the covering insulating layer 800 may include an organic insulating material. Covering with insulating layer 800 can eliminate the thickness difference caused by touch line 700.

[0071] Each of the touch lines 700 may include a portion overlapping with the second electrode region 330b of each upper electrode 330. The touch lines 700 may extend in a direction different from the upper electrode 330. For example, each of the touch lines 700 may extend in a second direction. The touch lines 700 may be disposed outside the light-emitting regions EA. For example, each of the touch lines 700 may extend between the light-emitting regions EA. The light-emitting regions EA may be arranged in a zig-zag shape. Each of the touch lines 700 may extend in a zig-zag shape. Each of the touch lines 700 may include a portion overlapping with the second electrode region 330b of each upper electrode 330. The first link line 550 and the second link line 520 may intersect with the touch lines 700. For example, each of the touch lines 700 may include a portion overlapping with the first link line 550 and the second link line 520.

[0072] The second link 520 can be electrically connected to the touch sensing component TD. The touch sensing component TD can apply a touch drive signal Tx and a touch sensing signal Rx to the display panel DP. For example, the touch drive signal Tx can be applied to the second electrode region 330b of each upper electrode 330 through the second link 520, and the touch sensing signal Rx can be applied to each touch line 700. The first link 550 can be electrically connected to a power supply. That is, the touch display device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure can provide a power supply voltage to the first electrode region 330a of each upper electrode 330 disposed on the light-emitting layer 320 of each light-emitting device 300, and sense the touch of the user and / or tool by using the second electrode region 330b of each upper electrode 330 and the touch line 700. Therefore, in the touch display device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, the realization of an image and the sensing of touch through the light-emitting device 300 can be performed simultaneously.

[0073] Therefore, the touch display device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure can sense the touch of a user and / or tool by using the second electrode region 330b of each upper electrode 330 and the touch line 700, wherein the second electrode region 330b of each upper electrode 330 can be disposed between the non-light-emitting region NEA of the device substrate 100 and the package element 400, and wherein the touch line 700 can be disposed on the package element 400. Therefore, in the touch display device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, the process of forming the touch line 700 disposed on the package element 400 can be simplified. Therefore, in the touch display device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, process efficiency can be improved.

[0074] The display panel DP can be electrically connected to the driving components DD, SD, TD, and TC via pads 520p, 550p, and 700p. For example, the first link pad 550p electrically connected to the first link line 550, the second link pad 520p electrically connected to the second link line 520, and the touch pad 700p electrically connected to the touch line 700 can be disposed on a portion of the device substrate 100. The first link pad 550p, the second link pad 520p, and the touch pad 700p can be disposed outside the package dam 106. For example, the first link pad 550p, the second link pad 520p, and the touch pad 700p can be spaced apart from the package element 400.

[0075] Each of the first link lines 550 can be connected to one of the first link pads 550p by extending along the lower passivation layer 130. For example, each of the first link pads 550p may include a first lower link pad 551p having the same or substantially the same material as the first link line 550. The touch buffer layer 600 may extend beyond the package dam 106. For example, the touch buffer layer 600 may include a first pad contact hole that partially exposes the first lower link pad 551p of each first link pad 550p. Each of the first link pads 550p may include a first upper link pad 552p disposed on the touch buffer layer 600. The first upper link pad 552p of each first link pad 550p can be connected to the first lower link pad 551p of the corresponding first link pad 550p through one of the first pad contact holes. The first upper link pad 552p of each first link pad 550p may include a conductive material. For example, the first upper link pad 552p of each first link pad 550p may include metals such as aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), molybdenum (Mo), and tungsten (W). The first upper link pad 552p of each first link pad 550p may include the same material or substantially the same material as the conductive layer disposed on the first link line 550. For example, the first upper link pad 552p of each first link pad 550p may include the same material or substantially the same material as the touch line 700.

[0076] Each second link line 520 can be connected to one of the second link pads 520p by extending along the lower passivation layer 130. Each second link pad 520p can have the same stack-up structure as the first link pad 550p. For example, each of the second link pads 520p can have a stack-up structure of a second lower link pad 521p and a second upper link pad 522p. The second lower link pad 521p of each second link pad 520p can include the same material or substantially the same material as the material of the second link line 520. The second upper link pad 522p of each second link pad 520p can include the same material or substantially the same material as the touch line 700. For example, the touch buffer layer 600 can include second pad contact holes that expose a portion of each second lower link pad 521p. The second upper link pad 522p of each second link pad 520p can be connected to the second lower link pad 521p of the corresponding second link pad 520p through one of the second pad contact holes.

[0077] Each of the touch lines 700 can be connected to one of the touch pads 700p by extending along the touch buffer layer 600. For example, each of the touch lines 700 can extend beyond the package dam 106 along the surface of the packaged element 400 opposite to the component substrate 100. Each of the touch pads 700p can have the same stack-up structure as the first link pad 550p and the second link pad 520p. For example, each of the touch pads 700p can have a stack-up structure of a lower touch pad 701p and an upper touch pad 702p. The lower touch pad 701p of each of the touch pads 700p can be disposed on the same layer as the first lower link pad 551p. For example, the lower touch pad 701p of each touch pad 700p can be disposed between the lower passivation layer 130 and the touch buffer layer 600. The lower touch pad 701p of each touch pad 700p can include the same material or substantially the same material as the first lower link pad 551p. The touch buffer layer 600 may include touch pad contact holes that partially expose the lower touch pad 701p of each touch pad 700p. An upper touch pad 702p of each touch pad 700p may be disposed on the touch buffer layer 600. For example, the upper touch pad 702p of each touch pad 700p may be connected to the lower touch pad 701p of the corresponding touch pad 700p via one of the touch pad contact holes. The upper touch pad 702p of each touch pad 700p may comprise the same material or substantially the same material as the touch line 700. For example, the upper touch pad 702p of each touch pad 700p may be in direct contact with the corresponding touch line 700.

[0078] The touch display device according to embodiments of the present disclosure is described as simultaneously performing image processing and touch sensing. However, in another embodiment of the touch display device according to the present disclosure, the first electrode region 330a of each upper electrode 330 can be selectively connected to the touch sensing component TD via a first link 550, and the second electrode region 330b of each upper electrode 330 can be connected to the touch sensing component TD via a second link 520. For example, in another embodiment of the touch display device according to the present disclosure, both the first electrode region 330a and the second electrode region 330b of each upper electrode 330 can be used as touch electrodes. For example, in another embodiment of the touch display device according to the present disclosure, each frame can be divided into a display period and a touch period. During the display period of each frame, a power supply voltage can be supplied to the first electrode region 330a of each upper electrode 330. During the touch period of each frame, a touch drive signal Tx can be applied to the first electrode region 330a and the second electrode region 330b of each upper electrode 330, and a touch sensing signal Rx can be applied to the touch line 700 disposed on the package element 400. Therefore, in a touch display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the accuracy of touch sensing can be improved.

[0079] The touch display device according to an embodiment of this disclosure describes an upper electrode 330 extending in the same direction as the first link line 550 and the second link line 520. However, in another embodiment of the touch display device according to this disclosure, the upper electrode 330 and the touch line 700 can be arranged in various shapes. For example, as Figure 7 As shown, a touch display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may include touch lines 700 extending parallel to the first link line 550 and the second link line 520. The second electrode region 330b of each upper electrode 330 may extend in a direction perpendicular to the first link line 550 and the second link line 520. For example, the second electrode region 330b of each upper electrode 330 may extend in a zigzag shape. Therefore, in the touch display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the degree of freedom in arranging the touch lines 700 can be increased. Therefore, in the touch display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the process for sensing touch can be simplified without reducing process efficiency.

[0080] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a touch display device may include: a device substrate including a light-emitting region; a pixel electrode located on the light-emitting region of the device substrate; a dam insulating layer located on the device substrate, the dam insulating layer covering the edge of the pixel electrode; a light-emitting layer located on the portion of the pixel electrode exposed by the dam insulating layer; an upper electrode including a first electrode region and a second electrode region, the first electrode region located on the light-emitting region, the second electrode region being spaced apart from the first electrode region; a first connecting line disposed between the device substrate and the dam insulating layer, the first connecting line being electrically connected to the first electrode region; a second connecting line spaced apart from the first connecting line, the second connecting line being electrically connected to the second electrode region; a package element located on the upper electrode; and a touch line located on the package element, the touch line being spaced apart from the light-emitting region, wherein the touch line includes a portion overlapping with the second electrode region.

[0081] As a result, the touch display device according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include an upper electrode on each light-emitting layer, a packaging element on the upper electrode, and a touch line on the packaging element. The upper electrode may include a first electrode region disposed on the light-emitting region and a second electrode region spaced apart from the first electrode region. The touch line includes a portion overlapping the second electrode region. Therefore, the touch display device according to embodiments of the present disclosure can sense user and / or tool touches through the second electrode region of the upper electrode and the touch line. For example, in the touch display device according to embodiments of the present disclosure, the degree of freedom of the touch line can be increased. Consequently, in the touch display device according to embodiments of the present disclosure, the forming process of the components for sensing touch can be simplified.

[0082] Cross-reference to related applications

[0083] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0189504, filed on December 31, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth herein.

Claims

1. A touch display device, the touch display device comprising: A device substrate, the device substrate including a light-emitting region; A pixel electrode, wherein the pixel electrode is located on the light-emitting area of ​​the device substrate; A dam insulating layer is located on the device substrate and covers the edge of the pixel electrode; A light-emitting layer is located on the portion of the pixel electrode exposed by the insulating layer; The upper electrode includes a first electrode region located on the light-emitting region and a second electrode region spaced apart from the first electrode region. A first connecting line is disposed between the device substrate and the dike insulating layer, and the first connecting line is electrically connected to the first electrode region. The second link line is spaced apart from the first link line and is electrically connected to the second electrode region. A packaged element, the packaged element being located on the upper electrode; as well as A touch line is located on the packaged element and is spaced apart from the light-emitting area. The touch line includes a portion that overlaps with the second electrode region.

2. The touch display device according to claim 1, wherein, The signal applied to the second electrode region of the upper electrode is different from the signal applied to the first electrode region of the upper electrode.

3. The touch display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first electrode region of the upper electrode is selectively connected to the touch sensing component via the first link line.

4. The touch display device according to claim 1, wherein, The encapsulation element includes a first encapsulation layer, a second encapsulation layer, and a third encapsulation layer stacked sequentially, wherein the second encapsulation layer comprises a material different from the materials of the first encapsulation layer and the third encapsulation layer.

5. The touch display device according to claim 4, wherein, At least one encapsulation dam is disposed on the substrate of the device. The first encapsulation layer and the third encapsulation layer extend along the surface of the encapsulation dam, and the second encapsulation layer is disposed on the portion defined by the encapsulation dam between the first encapsulation layer and the third encapsulation layer.

6. The touch display device according to claim 1, wherein, The upper electrode extends in a first direction, and the touch line extends in a second direction different from the first direction.

7. The touch display device according to claim 1, further comprising a separator located on the insulating layer, the separator having an inverted conical side surface. in, The separator is disposed between the first electrode region and the second electrode region of the upper electrode.

8. The touch display device according to claim 7, wherein, The separator surrounds the light-emitting area.

9. The touch display device according to claim 7, wherein, The size of the first electrode region is larger than the size of the light-emitting region.

10. The touch display device according to claim 1, wherein, The second electrode region comprises the same material as the first electrode region.

11. The touch display device according to claim 1, wherein, The second link is disposed between the device substrate and the dike insulation layer.

12. The touch display device according to claim 11, wherein, The second link line is made of the same material as the first link line.

13. The touch display device according to claim 11, wherein, The second link extends parallel to the first link.

14. The touch display device according to claim 13, wherein, Each of the first and second link lines includes a portion that overlaps with the touch line.

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