Display device

Abstract

A display device according to one embodiment includes: a pixel circuit; an insulating layer covering the pixel circuit and having a first groove; a first electrode disposed on the insulating layer; an organic layer disposed on the first electrode; a second electrode disposed on the organic layer; and a first filling layer filling at least a portion of the first groove. An end portion of the first electrode is located inside the first groove and is covered by the first filling layer.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-032636 filed on March 2, 2021, and all the contents described in this Japanese application are cited here. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a display device. Background Art

[0003] In recent years, a display device using an organic light emitting diode (OLED) as a display element has been put into practical use. The display element includes a first electrode, an organic layer covering the first electrode, and a second electrode covering the organic layer.

[0004] The first electrode is provided for each pixel and is formed by patterning by etching or the like. Therefore, the end of the first electrode may not be in the shape designed. In addition, the organic layer is easily thinned near the end of the first electrode. For these reasons, there is a risk that the first electrode and the second electrode are conductive near the end of the first electrode. Summary of the invention

[0005] According to one technical solution, a display device comprises: a pixel circuit; an insulating layer covering the pixel circuit and having a first groove; a first electrode disposed on the insulating layer; an organic layer disposed on the first electrode; a second electrode disposed on the organic layer; and a first filling layer filling at least a portion of the first groove. An end of the first electrode is located inside the first groove and is covered by the first filling layer.

[0006] According to another technical solution, a display device comprises: a pixel circuit; an insulating layer covering the pixel circuit and having a first groove; a first electrode disposed on the insulating layer; an organic layer disposed on the first electrode; a second electrode disposed on the organic layer; and a first filling layer filling the first groove. The first electrode comprises a first conductive layer and a second conductive layer connected to the first conductive layer. An end of the first conductive layer is located inside the first groove and is covered by the first filling layer. The second conductive layer is located on the insulating layer and the first filling layer.

[0007] According to the display device as described above, the risk of conduction between the first electrode and the second electrode constituting the display element can be reduced. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing a configuration example of a display device according to the first embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a structural example of a display element according to the first embodiment.

[0010] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing an example of the layout of sub-pixels according to the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view of a display device along line IV-IV.

[0012] Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view of the display device taken along line V-V.

[0013] Figure 6 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example that can be applied to the display device of the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 7 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to a second embodiment.

[0015] Figure 8 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to a third embodiment.

[0016] Fig. 9 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to a fourth embodiment.

[0017] Fig.10 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to a fifth embodiment.

[0018] Fig.11 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example of the display device according to the fifth embodiment.

[0019] Fig.12 This is a schematic plan view of a sub-pixel according to the sixth embodiment.

[0020] Fig.13 It is along Fig.12 A schematic cross-sectional view of the display device taken along line XIII-XIII.

[0021] Fig.14 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to the seventh embodiment.

[0022] Fig.15 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example of the display device according to the seventh embodiment.

[0023] Fig.16 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing still another example of the display device according to the seventh embodiment.

[0024] Fig.17 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing still another example of the display device according to the seventh embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] Several embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0026] In addition, the present disclosure is only an example, and any form that can be easily thought of by a person skilled in the art for appropriate changes while maintaining the main purpose of the invention is of course included in the scope of the present invention. In addition, in order to make the description clearer, the drawings schematically show the width, thickness, shape, etc. of each part compared with the actual form, but this is only an example and does not limit the interpretation of the present invention. In addition, in this specification and each figure, the same reference numerals are given to the constituent elements that perform the same or similar functions as the constituent elements described for the previous figures, and the repeated detailed descriptions are appropriately omitted.

[0027] In addition, in the drawings, mutually orthogonal X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis are described as needed for easy understanding. The direction along the X-axis is called the first direction, the direction along the Y-axis is called the second direction, and the direction along the Z-axis is called the third direction. The plane defined by the X-axis and the Y-axis is called the X-Y plane, and the plane defined by the X-axis and the Z-axis is called the X-Z plane. Observation of the X-Y plane is called plane view.

[0028] The display device DSP of this embodiment is an organic electroluminescent display device having an organic light emitting diode (OLED) as a display element, and can be installed in a television, a personal computer, an in-vehicle device, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, a mobile phone terminal, etc.

[0029] [First embodiment]

[0030] Figure 1 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a display device DSP according to the first embodiment. The display device DSP includes a display area DA for displaying an image and a peripheral area SA outside the display area DA on an insulating substrate 10. The substrate 10 may be glass or a flexible resin film.

[0031] The display area DA includes a plurality of pixels PX arranged in a matrix in the first direction X and the second direction Y. The pixel PX includes a plurality of sub-pixels SP. In one example, the pixel PX includes a red sub-pixel SP1, a green sub-pixel SP2, and a blue sub-pixel SP3. In addition, the pixel PX may include four or more sub-pixels having other colors such as white in addition to the above-mentioned three-color sub-pixels.

[0032] The sub-pixel SP includes a pixel circuit 1 and a display element 20 driven by the pixel circuit 1. The display element 20 is an organic light emitting diode (OLED) as a light emitting element. The pixel circuit 1 includes a pixel switch 2, a driving transistor 3, and a capacitor 4. The pixel switch 2 and the driving transistor 3 are switching elements composed of, for example, thin film transistors.

[0033] In the pixel switch 2, the gate electrode is connected to the scanning line GL. One of the source electrode and the drain electrode of the pixel switch 2 is connected to the signal line SL, and the other is connected to the gate electrode of the driving transistor 3 and the capacitor 4. In the driving transistor 3, one of the source electrode and the drain electrode is connected to the power line PL and the capacitor 4, and the other is connected to the anode of the display element 20. A common voltage is applied to the cathode of the display element 20. In addition, the structure of the pixel circuit 1 is not limited to the example shown in the figure.

[0034] Figure 2 : is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a structural example of the display element 20. The display element 20 includes a first electrode E1, a second electrode E2, and an organic layer OR disposed between the first electrode E1 and the second electrode E2.

[0035] The first electrode E1 is an electrode arranged for each sub-pixel SP and is sometimes called a pixel electrode or a lower electrode. The second electrode E2 is an electrode arranged in common with a plurality of sub-pixels SP or a plurality of display elements 20 and is sometimes called a common electrode or an upper electrode.

[0036] When the potential of the first electrode E1 is relatively higher than that of the second electrode E2, the first electrode E1 is equivalent to an anode and the second electrode E2 is equivalent to a cathode. In addition, when the potential of the second electrode E2 is relatively higher than that of the first electrode E1, the second electrode E2 is equivalent to an anode and the first electrode E1 is equivalent to a cathode.

[0037] For example, the organic layer OR includes a first functional layer F1, a light-emitting layer EL, and a second functional layer F2 stacked in sequence from the first electrode E1 toward the second electrode E2. As an example, when the first electrode E1 corresponds to an anode, the first functional layer F1 includes at least one of a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, and an electron blocking layer, and the second functional layer F2 includes at least one of an electron transport layer, an electron injection layer, and a hole blocking layer.

[0038] If a potential difference is formed between the first electrode E1 and the second electrode E2, the light-emitting layer EL emits light. In this embodiment, the light-emitting layer EL of the sub-pixel SP1 emits light corresponding to a red wavelength, the light-emitting layer EL of the sub-pixel SP2 emits light corresponding to a green wavelength, and the light-emitting layer EL of the sub-pixel SP3 emits light corresponding to a blue wavelength.

[0039] Figure 3: is a diagram showing an example of the layout of sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3. Here, the focus is on two pixels PX arranged in the second direction Y. In each pixel PX, sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3 are arranged in this order in the first direction X. That is, in the display area DA, a column consisting of a plurality of sub-pixels SP1 arranged in the second direction Y, a column consisting of a plurality of sub-pixels SP2 arranged in the second direction Y, and a column consisting of a plurality of sub-pixels SP3 arranged in the second direction Y are alternately arranged in the first direction X.

[0040] The sub-pixels SP1 , SP2 , and SP3 have a light emitting area EA. The light emitting area EA is rectangular in shape and has a pair of short sides parallel to the first direction X and a pair of long sides parallel to the second direction Y, for example.

[0041] exist Figure 3 In FIG. 1 , the end S1 of the first electrode E1 (the outer shape of the first electrode E1) is indicated by a dashed line. Figure 3 In the example of FIG. 1 , the first electrode E1 is a rectangular shape having a size slightly larger than that of the light emitting area EA. The end S1 may also be referred to as a periphery or a side.

[0042] The end portion S1 has a first side S1a, a second side S1b, a third side S1c, and a fourth side S1d. The first side S1a and the second side S1b are parallel to the first direction X. The third side S1c and the fourth side S1d are parallel to the second direction Y.

[0043] The details will be described later. A groove TR11 is provided between the light-emitting areas EA of the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3. The groove TR11 has a portion located between the sub-pixels SP adjacent to each other in the first direction X and a portion located between the sub-pixels SP adjacent to each other in the second direction Y. A filling layer 14 is arranged in the groove TR11. The filling layer 14 has the same shape as the groove TR11. That is, the groove TR11 and the filling layer 14 are in a grid shape that overlaps with the boundaries of the plurality of sub-pixels SP. The end S1 (sides S1a, S1b, S1c, S1d) of each first electrode E1 overlaps with the groove TR11 and the filling layer 14 in a plan view.

[0044] Each first electrode E1 is connected to the pixel circuit 1 via a contact hole CH. The contact hole CH is provided near the first side S1a, and overlaps with the trench TR11 and the filling layer 14 in a plan view.

[0045] Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view of the display device DSP along line IV-IV. Figure 4 In FIG. 1 , the driving transistor 3 and the display element 20 are shown as elements arranged in the sub-pixels SP1 , SP2 , and SP3 , and illustration of other elements is omitted.

[0046] The display device DSP includes a substrate 10, insulating layers 11, 12, 13, a filling layer 14, and a sealing layer 15. The insulating layers 11, 12, 13 are stacked on the substrate 10 in the third direction Z. For example, the insulating layers 11 and 12 are formed of an inorganic material, and the insulating layer 13, the filling layer 14, and the sealing layer 15 are formed of an organic material.

[0047] The pixel circuit 1 including the driving transistor 3 is arranged on the substrate 10 and covered by the insulating layer 13. The driving transistor 3 includes a semiconductor layer 30 and electrodes 31, 32, and 33. The electrode 31 corresponds to the gate electrode. One of the electrodes 32 and 33 corresponds to the source electrode, and the other corresponds to the drain electrode. The semiconductor layer 30 is arranged between the substrate 10 and the insulating layer 11. The electrode 31 is arranged between the insulating layers 11 and 12. The electrodes 32 and 33 are arranged between the insulating layers 12 and 13, and are in contact with the semiconductor layer 30 via contact holes that penetrate the insulating layers 11 and 12.

[0048] exist Figure 4 In the example of FIG. 1 , the insulating layer 13 includes a first layer 131 and a second layer 132 . The first layer 131 covers the insulating layer 12 and the electrodes 32 and 33 . The second layer 132 covers the first layer 131 .

[0049] The second layer 132 has the above-mentioned groove TR11. The groove TR11 may also be referred to as a groove, a recess, a slit, etc. Figure 3 In the example of , the trench TR11 penetrates the second layer 132 . The trench TR11 may also reach the first layer 131 . The first layer 131 has the above-mentioned contact hole CH. The contact hole CH is located at the bottom of the trench TR11 . The contact hole CH penetrates the first layer 131 , exposing the electrode 33 from the first layer 131 .

[0050] The first electrode E1 is disposed on the insulating layer 13 (on the second layer 132). The end S1 (sides S1a, S1b) of the first electrode E1 is located inside the trench TR11. The portion near the first side S1a of the first electrode E1 contacts the electrode 33 via the contact hole CH. The first electrode E1 is formed of a metal material. However, the first electrode E1 may also be formed of a transparent conductive material such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO), or may be a laminate of a transparent conductive material and a metal material.

[0051] The filling layer 14 fills at least a portion of the trench TR11. Figure 3In the example, the filling layer 14 fills the entire trench TR11, and the upper surface of the first electrode E1 around the trench TR11 coincides with the upper surface of the filling layer 14 in the third direction Z. The filling layer 14 covers one end S1 (first side S1a) and the other end S1 (second side S1b) of two first electrodes E1 adjacent to each other in the second direction Y.

[0052] The ends S1 of two adjacent first electrodes E1 are spaced apart from each other. Figure 4 In the example, the first side S1a is located at the bottom of the trench TR11, and the second side S1b is located at the side of the trench TR11. However, as long as the ends S1 of the two adjacent first electrodes E1 are separated, the positions of the first side S1a and the second side S1b are not limited to the example shown in the figure. For example, the second side S1b may also be located at the bottom of the trench TR11.

[0053] exist Figure 4 In the example of FIG. 1 , the inside of the portion of the first electrode E1 that is recessed by the contact hole CH is filled with the insulating filling layer 16 . The filling layer 16 may be a layer different from the filling layer 14 , or may be a part of the filling layer 14 .

[0054] The organic layer OR is provided for each sub-pixel SP and covers the first electrode E1. The organic layer OR has an end S2. The end S2 is located on the filling layer 14. That is, a portion of the organic layer OR near the end S2 is not in contact with the first electrode E1.

[0055] The second electrode E2 covers the organic layer OR. The second electrode E2 is formed of a metal material. However, the second electrode E2 may also be formed of a transparent conductive material such as ITO or IZO. Figure 4 In the example of FIG. 1 , the second electrode E2 is continuously formed in a plurality of sub-pixels SP1 . A portion of the second electrode E2 is located on the filling layer 14 between adjacent organic layers OR.

[0056] The sealing layer 15 is disposed on the second electrode E2 and is formed thicker than the insulating layers 11 and 12, for example, to protect the organic layer OR from moisture and the like.

[0057] The portion of the first electrode E1 that is not covered by the filling layer 14 corresponds to the above-mentioned light-emitting area EA. In the light-emitting area EA, the lower surface of the organic layer OR contacts the first electrode E1, and the upper surface of the organic layer OR contacts the second electrode E2. When a potential difference is formed between the first electrode E1 and the second electrode E2, light is mainly emitted from the light-emitting area EA.

[0058] Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view of the display device DSP taken along the line V-V. Figure 4Similarly to the example, a portion of the organic layer OR and a portion of the second electrode E2 are located on the filling layer 14. In addition, one end S1 (third side S1c) and the other end S1 (fourth side S1d) of the first electrode E1 adjacent to each other in the first direction X are located inside the trench TR11.

[0059] Ends S1 of adjacent first electrodes E1 are spaced apart from each other. Figure 5 In the example of , the third side S1c is located on one of the pair of side surfaces of the trench TR11, and the fourth side S1d is located on the other side.

[0060] Figure 6 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example that can be applied to the display device DSP. In the example of this figure, the third side S1c and the fourth side S1d are both located at the bottom of the groove TR11. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The third side S1c and the fourth side S1d may be arranged in the trench TR11 in various forms other than the illustrated example.

[0061] Thus, in this embodiment, the sides S1a, S1b, S1c, and S1d of the first electrode E1 are located in the trench TR11 and covered by the filling layer 14 . That is, the end S1 of the first electrode E1 is located inside the trench TR11 and covered by the filling layer 14 throughout the entire circumference.

[0062] exist Figure 4 , the cross-sectional structure of a plurality of sub-pixels SP1 arranged in the second direction Y is shown, and the cross-sectional structure of a plurality of sub-pixels SP2 arranged in the second direction Y and the cross-sectional structure of a plurality of sub-pixels SP3 arranged in the second direction Y can also be applied. Figure 4 The same structure. In addition, Figure 5 and Figure 6 , the cross-sectional structure of the sub-pixels SP1 and SP2 arranged in the first direction X is shown, and the cross-sectional structure of the sub-pixels SP2 and SP3 arranged in the first direction X and the cross-sectional structure of the sub-pixels SP1 and SP3 arranged in the first direction X can also be applied. Figure 5 and Figure 6 Same structure.

[0063] For example, when manufacturing the display device DSP, a conductive layer serving as a base of the first electrode E1 is formed, and the first electrode E1 is formed by patterning the conductive layer by etching. In this case, it is possible that the end S1 of the first electrode E1 does not have a designed shape and includes unwanted projections and depressions. The organic layer OR is formed by vapor deposition using a mask, for example. In this case, the end of the organic layer OR is likely to become thinner. Therefore, if the organic layer OR and the second electrode E2 are arranged on the end S1 of the first electrode E1, there is a risk that the first electrode E1 penetrates the organic layer OR and the first electrode E1 and the second electrode E2 are connected.

[0064] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the end S1 of the first electrode E1 is located in the trench TR11 and is covered by the filling layer 14. Therefore, the risk of electrical conduction between the first electrode E1 and the second electrode E2 at the end S1 can be significantly reduced.

[0065] In addition, if the risk of conduction between the first electrode E1 and the second electrode E2 is only to be reduced, for example, a structure in which the end S1 is disposed on the insulating layer 13 and an insulating rib covering the end S1 is disposed between the sub-pixels SP can be considered. However, in this case, unevenness is generated due to the rib. In order to flatten the unevenness, it is necessary to form a sealing layer 15 that is sufficiently thicker than the rib.

[0066] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, since a substantially flat surface is formed by the insulating layer 13 and the filling layer 14, the above-mentioned unevenness is less likely to occur. Thus, the sealing layer 15 can also be made thinner.

[0067] In addition to the above examples, various appropriate effects can be obtained according to this embodiment.

[0068] Other embodiments of the display device DSP are disclosed below. The configurations not particularly mentioned in these embodiments are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0069] [Second embodiment]

[0070] Figure 7 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display device DSP according to the second embodiment. Figure 5 The structure near the boundary between the sub-pixels SP1 and SP2 arranged in the first direction X is shown in the same manner. The same structure can be applied to the boundary between the sub-pixels SP2 and SP3 arranged in the first direction X, the boundary between the sub-pixels SP1 and SP3 arranged in the first direction X, the boundary between the two sub-pixels SP1 arranged in the second direction Y, the boundary between the two sub-pixels SP2 arranged in the second direction Y, and the boundary between the two sub-pixels SP3 arranged in the second direction Y.

[0071] exist Figure 7In the example, the insulating layer 13 is a single insulating layer. The trench TR11 penetrates the insulating layer 13. The end S1 (third side S1c) of one side and the end S1 (fourth side S1d) of the other side of the two first electrodes E1 adjacent to each other in the first direction X are both located at the bottom of the trench TR11 and contact the insulating layer 12.

[0072] In addition, Figure 7 In the example of , the trench TR11 may not penetrate the insulating layer 13. In addition, the end S1 of each first electrode E1 may be located on the side surface of the trench TR11.

[0073] [Third Embodiment]

[0074] Figure 8 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device DSP according to the third embodiment. Figure 4 Similarly, the structure near the boundary between two sub-pixels SP1 arranged in the second direction Y is shown, and the elements below the insulating layer 13 are omitted. The same structure can be applied to the boundary between two sub-pixels SP2 arranged in the second direction Y, the boundary between two sub-pixels SP3 arranged in the second direction Y, the boundary between sub-pixels SP1 and SP2 arranged in the first direction X, the boundary between sub-pixels SP2 and SP3 arranged in the first direction X, and the boundary between sub-pixels SP1 and SP3 arranged in the first direction X.

[0075] exist Figure 8 In the example of , the upper surface 14a of the filling layer 14 protrudes upwards than the upper surface of the surrounding first electrode E1 and the upper surface of the second layer 132. As a result, the organic layer OR and the second electrode E2 are formed with unevenness due to the filling layer 14. The protrusion amount of the filling layer 14 (the distance between the upper surface 14a and the upper surface of the second layer 132 in the third direction Z) is smaller than the depth of the groove TR11. Even when the upper surface 14a of the filling layer 14 is slightly protruded, the same effect as the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0076] [Fourth embodiment]

[0077] Fig. 9 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device DSP according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 4Similarly, the structure near the boundary between two sub-pixels SP1 arranged in the second direction Y is shown, and the elements below the insulating layer 13 are omitted. The same structure can be applied to the boundary between two sub-pixels SP2 arranged in the second direction Y, the boundary between two sub-pixels SP3 arranged in the second direction Y, the boundary between sub-pixels SP1 and SP2 arranged in the first direction X, the boundary between sub-pixels SP2 and SP3 arranged in the first direction X, and the boundary between sub-pixels SP1 and SP3 arranged in the first direction X.

[0078] exist Fig. 9 In the example of , the upper surface 14a of the filling layer 14 is located slightly below the upper surface of the surrounding first electrode E1 and the upper surface of the second layer 132. That is, the filling layer 14 fills a portion of the trench TR11. Such a structure can also obtain the same effect as the first embodiment.

[0079] exist Fig. 9 In the example of FIG. 1 , the end S2 of the organic layer OR is located on the upper surface 14a. The portion of the organic layer OR that is inclined near the end S2 is sandwiched by the first electrode E1 and the second electrode E2. Therefore, when a potential difference is formed between the first electrode E1 and the second electrode E2, this portion of the organic layer OR can emit light. There is a possibility that the organic layer OR is thinner in this portion, and the color purity of the light emitted by the organic layer OR may decrease or the chromaticity may deviate. From the viewpoint of suppressing these situations, it is preferred that the filling layer 14 completely fills the groove TR11.

[0080] [Fifth embodiment]

[0081] Fig.10 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device DSP according to a fifth embodiment. Figure 4 Similarly, the structure near the boundary between two sub-pixels SP1 arranged in the second direction Y is shown, and the elements below the insulating layer 13 are omitted. The same structure can be applied to the boundary between two sub-pixels SP2 arranged in the second direction Y, the boundary between two sub-pixels SP3 arranged in the second direction Y, the boundary between sub-pixels SP1 and SP2 arranged in the first direction X, the boundary between sub-pixels SP2 and SP3 arranged in the first direction X, and the boundary between sub-pixels SP1 and SP3 arranged in the first direction X.

[0082] In this embodiment, it is assumed that the light-emitting layers EL included in the organic layers OR of the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3 all emit light of the same color (for example, white). In this case, for example, a color filter corresponding to the color of the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3 may be arranged above the sealing layer 15. In addition, a layer containing quantum dots that are excited by the light emitted by the light-emitting layer EL to generate light of the color corresponding to the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3 may be arranged in the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3.

[0083] exist Fig.10 In the example of , the filling layer 14 has a trench TR12. In addition, the organic layer OR has a first portion P11 located outside the trench TR12 and a second portion P12 located inside the trench TR12. The first portion P11 covers the first electrode E1. The second portion P12 covers the bottom surface of the trench TR12.

[0084] For example, the groove TR12 and the second portion P12 are Figure 3 The grid-shaped filling layer 14 shown is formed entirely. In this case, the trench TR12 and the second portion P12 are also in a grid shape.

[0085] For example, the groove TR12 has an inverse tapered shape whose width increases downward from the upper surface 14a. The groove TR12 may have another shape such as an overhang shape in which a part of the side surface protrudes.

[0086] The first portion P11 and the second portion P12 are formed of the same material. The second portion P12 is separated from the first portion P11 respectively arranged in two adjacent sub-pixels SP1. The second electrode E2 covers the first portion P11 outside the trench TR12. In addition, the second electrode E2 covers the side surface of the trench TR12 and the second portion P12.

[0087] The organic layer OR is formed on the entire surface of the display area DA by vacuum evaporation, for example. At this time, the material from the evaporation source adheres to the bottom of the groove TR12 to form the second portion P12. On the other hand, the material from the evaporation source is difficult to adhere to the side of the groove TR12. As a result, the first portion P11 and the second portion P12 are separated. The second electrode E2 is formed by a method such as a chemical vapor deposition method (CVD) with high film forming properties on the wall portion such as the side of the groove TR12.

[0088] exist Fig.10 In the structure, the organic layer OR (first portion P11) disposed in each of the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3 is separated. Thus, crosstalk between adjacent sub-pixels is suppressed, and the display quality of the display device DSP can be improved.

[0089] Fig.111 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example of the display device DSP of the present embodiment. In the example of the figure, the trench TR12 is filled with an insulating filling layer 40. The filling layer 40 is formed of, for example, an organic material and covers the second portion P12. The filling layer 40 also covers the end S3 of the first portion P11. The second electrode E2 covers the upper surface of the filling layer 40. That is, a portion of the second electrode E2 is located above the filling layer 40.

[0090] exist Fig.10 In the example of FIG. 1 , even when the second electrode E2 is formed by a method with high film forming properties, it may be partially cut off depending on the shape of the trench TR12. Fig.11 By filling the trench TR12 with the filling layer 40 in this manner, the risk of the second electrode E2 being cut off can be reduced.

[0091] [Sixth embodiment]

[0092] Fig.12 It is a schematic plan view of sub-pixels SP1 , SP2 , and SP3 according to the sixth embodiment. Fig.13 It is along Fig.12 A schematic cross-sectional view of the display device DSP taken along line XIII-XIII. Fig.13 The elements below the insulating layer 13 are omitted from illustration. The same method can also be applied to the boundary between two sub-pixels SP2 arranged in the second direction Y and the boundary between two sub-pixels SP3 arranged in the second direction Y. Fig.13 Same structure.

[0093] In the present embodiment, the first electrode E1 includes the first conductive layer CL1 and the second conductive layer CL2 . Furthermore, the second layer 132 of the insulating layer 13 includes the trench TR21 and the connection portion CP.

[0094] like Fig.12 As shown, the trench TR21 is provided for each of the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3. The trench TR21 is in the shape of a rectangular frame in the example shown in the figure, but the present invention is not limited to this example. The connection portion CP is surrounded by the trench TR21.

[0095] exist Fig.12 , the shape of the end S4 of the first conductive layer CL1 is indicated by a single-dot chain line, and the shape of the end S5 of the second conductive layer CL2 is indicated by a double-dot chain line. The second conductive layer CL2 has a sufficiently larger area than the first conductive layer CL1. The first conductive layer CL1 and the second conductive layer CL2 are both rectangular, for example, but are not limited to this example.

[0096] The first conductive layer CL1 overlaps with the trench TR21 in a plan view. Both the first conductive layer CL1 and the second conductive layer CL2 overlap with the connection portion CP in a plan view.

[0097] like Fig.13 As shown, the trench TR21 penetrates the second layer 132. The trench TR21 may also reach the first layer 131. The contact hole CH is located at the bottom of the trench TR21.

[0098] The first conductive layer CL1 covers the connection portion CP. The trench TR21 is filled with an insulating filling layer 17. The filling layer 17 is formed of, for example, an organic material. Fig.13 In the example of , the filling layer 17 fills the entire trench TR21, and the upper surface of the second layer 132 around the trench TR21 and the upper surface 17a of the filling layer 17 are consistent in the third direction Z. As another example, the upper surface 17a may protrude upward from the upper surface of the second layer 132. In addition, the upper surface 17a may be located below the upper surface of the second layer 132.

[0099] The end portion S4 of the first conductive layer CL1 is located entirely inside the trench TR21 and is covered by the filling layer 17. Fig.13 In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the end portion S4 is located on the side surface of the trench TR21 , but the end portion S4 may be located at the bottom of the trench TR21 . The first conductive layer CL1 is in contact with the electrode 33 via the contact hole CH.

[0100] The portion of the first conductive layer CL1 located above the connection portion CP is not covered by the filling layer 17. The second conductive layer CL2 is disposed on the second layer 132 and is in contact with the first conductive layer CL1 above the connection portion CP. Thus, the first conductive layer CL1 and the second conductive layer CL2 are electrically connected.

[0101] Most of the second conductive layer CL2 is located on the second layer 132, and the remaining part is located on the filling layer 17. Fig.13 In the cross section of FIG. 1 , the end S5 of the second conductive layer CL2 is located on the upper surface 17a of the filling layer 17. The organic layer OR covers the entire second conductive layer CL2. That is, the end S5 is covered by the organic layer OR. Fig.13 In the cross section of FIG. 1 , the end S2 of the organic layer OR is located on the upper surface 17 a. The second electrode E2 covers the organic layer OR. Between adjacent organic layers OR, the second electrode E2 covers the upper surface 17 a and the second layer 132 .

[0102] The conductive layers CL1 and CL2 are formed of a metal material, but the conductive layers CL1 and CL2 may be formed of a transparent conductive material such as ITO, or may be a laminate of a transparent conductive material and a metal material.

[0103] The first conductive layer CL1 is formed, for example, by forming a conductive layer as a base as a whole on the second layer 132 and then etching it to pattern it. In this case, the shape of the end S4 of the first conductive layer CL1 may be disordered, similar to the first electrode E1 of the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the end S4 is located inside the trench TR21 and is covered by the filling layer 17. Therefore, even if the shape of the end S4 is disordered, it does not have a particular effect on the display.

[0104] On the other hand, the second conductive layer CL2 is formed by evaporation or sputtering using a mask, for example. In this case, the end S5 of the second conductive layer CL2 is smoother than the end S4 of the first conductive layer CL1 formed by etching. Therefore, the risk of penetrating the organic layer OR and conducting with the second electrode E2 is small.

[0105] Since the second conductive layer CL2 is disposed on the filling layer 17, it is difficult for the second conductive layer CL2 or the organic layer OR to have unevenness due to the trench TR21. Thus, it is possible to suppress the influence of the trench TR21 on the display quality.

[0106] In the structures shown in the cross-sectional views of the above-mentioned embodiments, the ends S1 of the two first electrodes E1 are located in the groove TR11. Considering the processing accuracy of the first electrode E1 and the groove TR11, a sufficient distance needs to be set between the ends S1 of the first electrode E1 so that the two are not conductive. If the distance is large, the area of ​​the light-emitting region EA becomes small.

[0107] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the groove TR11 is provided for each sub-pixel SP, and the first conductive layer CL1 is disposed in each groove TR11. According to this structure, there is no risk of the first conductive layer CL1 of the adjacent sub-pixel SP being turned on. In addition, the second conductive layer CL2 can be formed without considering the processing accuracy of the groove TR21. Thus, the light emitting area, that is, the area where the second conductive layer CL2, the organic layer OR, and the second electrode E2 are stacked, can be ensured to be larger.

[0108] [Seventh embodiment]

[0109] Fig.14 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device DSP according to the seventh embodiment. Fig.13 Similarly, the structure near the boundary between two sub-pixels SP1 arranged in the second direction Y is shown, and the elements below the insulating layer 13 are omitted. The same structure can be applied to the boundary between two sub-pixels SP2 arranged in the second direction Y and the boundary between two sub-pixels SP3 arranged in the second direction Y.

[0110] In this embodiment, as in the sixth embodiment, the first electrode E1 includes a first conductive layer CL1 and a second conductive layer CL2, and the insulating layer 13 includes a groove TR21. In addition, in this embodiment, as in the fifth embodiment, it is assumed that the light-emitting layers EL included in the organic layers OR of the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3 all emit light of the same color (for example, white). In this case, for example, a color filter corresponding to the color of the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3 may be arranged above the sealing layer 15. In addition, a layer including quantum dots that are excited by light emitted by the light-emitting layer EL to generate light of a color corresponding to the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3 may be arranged in the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3.

[0111] exist Fig.14 In the example of , the insulating layer 13 further has a trench TR22. In addition, the organic layer OR has a first portion P21 located outside the trench TR22 and a second portion P22 located inside the trench TR22. The first portion P21 covers the second conductive layer CL2. The second portion P22 covers the bottom surface of the trench TR22.

[0112] For example, as shown in the figure, the trench TR22 is provided in the second layer 132 at a position not overlapping with the second conductive layer CL2. The trench TR22 may reach the first layer 131.

[0113] For example, the groove TR22 and the second portion P22 are respectively formed in a grid pattern between two adjacent sub-pixels SP1 in the second direction Y, between two adjacent sub-pixels SP2 in the second direction Y, between two adjacent sub-pixels SP3 in the second direction Y, between adjacent sub-pixels SP1 and SP2 in the first direction X, between adjacent sub-pixels SP2 and SP3 in the first direction X, and between adjacent sub-pixels SP1 and SP3 in the first direction X.

[0114] For example, the trench TR22 has an inverse tapered shape whose width increases downward from the upper surface of the second layer 132. The trench TR22 may have other shapes such as an overhanging shape in which a part of the side surface protrudes.

[0115] The first portion P21 and the second portion P22 are formed of the same material. The second portion P22 is separated from the first portion P21 disposed in two adjacent sub-pixels SP1. The second electrode E2 covers the first portion P21 outside the trench TR22. In addition, the second electrode E2 covers the side surface of the trench TR22 and the second portion P22.

[0116] The organic layer OR is formed on the entire surface of the display area DA by vacuum evaporation, for example. At this time, the material from the evaporation source adheres to the bottom of the groove TR22 to form the second part P22. On the other hand, the material from the evaporation source is difficult to adhere to the side of the groove TR22. As a result, the first part P21 and the second part P22 are separated. The second electrode E2 is formed by a method such as CVD with high film forming properties on the wall portion such as the side of the groove TR22.

[0117] exist Fig.14 In the structure, the organic layer OR (first portion P21) respectively arranged in the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3 is separated. As a result, crosstalk between adjacent sub-pixels is suppressed, and the display quality of the display device DSP can be improved.

[0118] Fig.15 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example of the display device DSP of the present embodiment. In the example of the figure, the groove TR22 is filled with an insulating filling layer 41. The filling layer 41 is formed of, for example, an organic material and covers the second portion P22. The filling layer 41 also covers the end S6 of the first portion P21. The second electrode E2 covers the upper surface of the filling layer 41. That is, a part of the second electrode E2 is located above the filling layer 41. In this way, if the groove TR22 is filled with the filling layer 41, the risk of the second electrode E2 being cut off by the groove TR22 can be reduced.

[0119] Fig.16 : is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example of the display device DSP of the present embodiment. In the example of the figure, the second conductive layer CL2 has a third portion P23 located outside the groove TR22 and a fourth portion P24 located inside the groove TR22. The third portion P23 contacts the first conductive layer CL1 at the connection portion CP and is covered by the first portion P21 of the organic layer OR as a whole. The fourth portion P24 is covered by the second portion P22 of the organic layer OR. The third portion P23 and the fourth portion P24 are formed of the same material.

[0120] exist Fig.16 In the example of , the second conductive layer CL2 is formed on the entire surface of the display area DA by, for example, evaporation or sputtering. At this time, the material that is the basis of the second conductive layer CL2 adheres to the bottom of the trench TR22, thereby forming the fourth portion P24. On the other hand, since it is difficult for the material to adhere to the side of the trench TR22, the third portion P23 and the fourth portion P24 are separated.

[0121] exist Fig.16 In the example of , the end S7 of the third portion P23 is covered by the first portion P21. Thus, conduction between the third portion P23 and the second electrode E2 is suppressed.

[0122] Fig.17 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another example of the display device DSP of this embodiment. In the example of this figure, the groove TR22 is filled with the filling layer 41. The filling layer 41 covers the end S6 of the first part P21 and the second part P22. The second electrode E2 covers the upper surface of the filling layer 41. When the groove TR22 is filled with the filling layer 41 in this way, Fig.15 Similarly to the example of , the risk of the second electrode E2 being cut off by the trench TR22 can be reduced.

[0123] In each embodiment, the grooves TR11 and TR21 are examples of first grooves, and the grooves TR12 and TR22 are examples of second grooves. In addition, the filling layers 14 and 17 are examples of first filling layers, and the filling layers 40 and 41 are examples of second filling layers.

[0124] Based on the display device described above as the embodiment of the present invention, all display devices that can be implemented by those skilled in the art with appropriate design changes also belong to the scope of the present invention as long as they include the gist of the present invention.

[0125] In the scope of the concept of the present invention, those skilled in the art can think of various variations, and it should be understood that these variations also belong to the scope of the present invention. For example, those skilled in the art appropriately add, delete or design changes the components of the above-mentioned embodiments, or add, omit or change the conditions of the processes, and as long as they have the gist of the present invention, they are also included in the scope of the present invention.

[0126] In addition, it should be understood that other effects brought about by the forms described in the above-mentioned embodiments, the effects that are clear from the description of this specification or the effects that can be appropriately thought of by those skilled in the art are of course brought about by the present invention.

Claims

1. A display device, characterized in that: have: Pixel circuit; An insulating layer, covering the pixel circuit, and having a first groove; A first electrode is disposed on the insulating layer; An organic layer is disposed on the first electrode; A second electrode is disposed on the organic layer; as well as a first filling layer filling at least a portion of the first groove; The end of the first electrode is located inside the first groove and is covered by the first filling layer; The insulating layer includes a first layer and a second layer covering the first layer; The first groove is formed in the second layer; The first layer has a contact hole located at the bottom of the first trench; The first electrode is connected to the pixel circuit via the contact hole.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: A portion of the second electrode is located on the first filling layer.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: An end portion of the organic layer is located on the first filling layer.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first groove is in a grid shape overlapping with the boundaries of a plurality of pixels; An end portion of the first electrode is located inside the first groove over the entire circumference of the first electrode and is covered by the first filling layer.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first filling layer has a second groove; The organic layer has a first portion located outside the second groove and a second portion located inside the second groove; The above-mentioned part 1 and the above-mentioned part 2 are separated.

6. The display device according to claim 5, characterized in that further comprising a second filling layer that fills the second groove and covers the second portion; A portion of the second electrode is located on the second filling layer.

7. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: A portion of an end portion of the first electrode is located on a side surface of the first groove.

8. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: A portion of the end portion of the first electrode is located at the bottom of the first groove.

9. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: An upper surface of the first filling layer protrudes further than an upper surface of the insulating layer.

10. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: An upper surface of the first filling layer is located below an upper surface of the insulating layer.

11. A display device, characterized in that: have: Pixel circuit; An insulating layer, covering the pixel circuit, having a first groove and a second groove; A first electrode is disposed on the insulating layer; An organic layer is disposed on the first electrode; A second electrode is disposed on the organic layer; as well as A first filling layer fills the first groove; The first electrode includes a first conductive layer and a second conductive layer connected to the first conductive layer; The end of the first conductive layer is located inside the first groove and is covered by the first filling layer; The second conductive layer is located on the insulating layer and the first filling layer; The organic layer has a first portion located outside the second groove and a second portion located inside the second groove; The above-mentioned part 1 and the above-mentioned part 2 are separated.

12. The display device according to claim 11, wherein: The end portion of the second conductive layer is covered with the organic layer.

13. The display device according to claim 11, wherein: The insulating layer has a connection portion surrounded by the first groove; A portion of the first conductive layer is located on the connecting portion and is in contact with the second conductive layer.

14. The display device according to claim 11, wherein: The second conductive layer has a third portion located outside the second trench and a fourth portion located inside the second trench; The above section 3 is covered by the above section 1; The above section 4 is covered by the above section 2.

15. The display device according to claim 14, wherein: An end portion of the third portion is covered by the first portion.

16. The display device according to claim 11, wherein: further comprising a second filling layer that fills the second groove and covers the second portion; A portion of the second electrode is located on the second filling layer.

17. The display device according to claim 11, wherein: The insulating layer includes a first layer and a second layer covering the first layer; the first groove is formed in the second layer; The first layer has a contact hole located at the bottom of the first trench; The first conductive layer is connected to the pixel circuit via the contact hole.

18. The display device according to claim 11, wherein: An end portion of the first conductive layer is located on a side surface of the first trench.

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