A display panel, its manufacturing method, and a display device.

Abstract

This invention discloses a display panel and its fabrication method, as well as a display device. The display panel includes a display area, which includes a first display area, and the first display area includes multiple light-emitting areas and light-transmitting areas. It also includes: a substrate; an array layer located on one side of the substrate, including a first light-transmitting film layer; the first light-transmitting film layer including a first opening; and a second light-transmitting film layer, at least partially located within the first opening in the first display area. Alternatively, the first display area includes a light-shielding layer located on the side of the first light-transmitting film layer near the substrate, covering at least a portion of the sidewall of the first opening along a direction perpendicular to the substrate. Placing at least a portion of the second light-transmitting film layer within the first opening in the first display area, and / or covering at least a portion of the sidewall of the first opening with a light-shielding layer, can ensure that patterning defects caused by uneven laser power are avoided during subsequent cathode patterning using a laser.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of display technology, and more particularly to a display panel, its manufacturing method, and a display device. Background Technology

[0002] Display panels with high screen-to-body ratios are becoming increasingly popular with consumers. Currently, to increase the screen-to-body ratio of display panels, a display area with a certain degree of light transmittance is usually added to the display area of ​​the display panel, and camera modules and other components are installed in this area.

[0003] However, display panels with light-transmitting areas still have other issues that need improvement, such as uneven light transmission in these areas affecting the display effect. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a display panel, its manufacturing method, and a display device to solve the problem of uneven light transmission in the light-transmitting area of ​​the display panel in the prior art.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a display panel, including a display area, the display area including a first display area, the first display area including a plurality of light-emitting areas and light-transmitting areas; the display panel further includes:

[0006] Substrate;

[0007] An array layer, located on one side of the substrate, includes a first light-transmitting film layer; the first light-transmitting film layer includes a first opening.

[0008] The array layer further includes a second light-transmitting film layer, which is at least partially located in the first opening in the first display area;

[0009] And / or,

[0010] The first display area also includes a light-shielding layer located on the side of the first light-transmitting film layer near the substrate, and along a direction perpendicular to the substrate, the light-shielding layer covers at least a portion of the sidewall of the first opening.

[0011] Secondly, embodiments of the present invention provide a method for manufacturing a display panel, comprising:

[0012] Provide substrates;

[0013] An array layer and a plurality of light-emitting elements are formed on one side of the substrate. The light-emitting elements include an anode, a light-emitting layer and a cathode stacked sequentially in a direction away from the substrate.

[0014] The substrate is irradiated with a laser to form a cathode layer including a cutout area in the first display area, and the cutout area overlaps with the light-transmitting area along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the display panel.

[0015] The array layer includes a first light-transmitting film layer and a second light-transmitting film layer; the first light-transmitting film layer includes a first opening, and the second light-transmitting film layer is at least partially located in the first opening in the first display area;

[0016] The display panel further includes a first conductive layer and a second conductive layer located on both sides of the first light-transmitting film layer. The first conductive layer and the second conductive layer are electrically connected through the first opening. The first conductive layer may be in the same layer and material as the anode, and the second conductive layer may be electrically connected to the pixel driving circuit located in the array layer or located in the pixel driving circuit. Furthermore, at least part of the first opening overlaps with the hollow area along a direction perpendicular to the display panel.

[0017] And / or,

[0018] The first display area also includes a light-shielding layer located on the side of the first light-transmitting film layer near the substrate, along a direction perpendicular to the display panel, and the light-shielding layer covers at least a portion of the sidewall of the first opening.

[0019] Thirdly, embodiments of the present invention provide a display device including the display panel described in any of the first aspects.

[0020] The display panel provided in this embodiment of the invention includes a display area, which includes a first display area, and the first display area includes multiple light-emitting areas and light-transmitting areas. The display panel further includes: a substrate; an array layer located on one side of the substrate, including a first light-transmitting film layer; the first light-transmitting film layer including a first opening; wherein the display panel further includes a second light-transmitting film layer, the second light-transmitting film layer being at least partially located in the first opening in the first display area; and / or, the first display area further includes a light-shielding layer located on the side of the first light-transmitting film layer near the substrate, and along a direction perpendicular to the substrate, the light-shielding layer covering at least a portion of the sidewall of the first opening. Placing at least a portion of the second light-transmitting film layer in the first opening in the first display area, and / or covering at least a portion of the sidewall of the first opening with a light-shielding layer, can ensure that when subsequent cathode patterning is performed using laser to improve the light transmittance of the first display area, uneven laser power causing patterning defects is avoided, thus improving the display effect of the display panel. Attached Figure Description

[0021] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in describing the embodiments are briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described are only a portion of the drawings of the embodiments to be described in this invention, and not all of the drawings. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without any creative effort.

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a display panel provided by existing technology;

[0023] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a cross-sectional structure of the provided display panel along section line A-A';

[0024] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a display panel provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a cross-sectional structure of the provided display panel along section line B-B';

[0026] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of another cross-sectional structure of the provided display panel along section line B-B';

[0027] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of another cross-sectional structure of the provided display panel along section line B-B';

[0028] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of another cross-sectional structure of the provided display panel along section line B-B';

[0029] Figure 8 yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of another cross-sectional structure of the provided display panel along section line B-B';

[0030] Figure 9 This is an enlarged schematic diagram of a first opening provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 10 yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of another cross-sectional structure of the provided display panel along section line B-B';

[0032] Figure 11 yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a cross-sectional structure of the provided display panel along section line C-C';

[0033] Figure 12This is a schematic flowchart of a method for manufacturing a display panel according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0034] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a display device provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the invention and not intended to limit it. Furthermore, it should be noted that, for ease of description, the accompanying drawings show only the parts relevant to the present invention, and not all of the structures.

[0036] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of a display panel provided by existing technology. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The provided diagram shows a cross-sectional structure of the display panel along section line A-A', for reference. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the display panel 10' includes a first display area 110', and the first display area 110' includes a plurality of light-emitting areas 110A' and light-transmitting areas 110B'. Specifically, the display panel 10' also includes a substrate 200' and an array layer 300' located on one side of the substrate 200', see reference. Figure 2 As shown, the array layer 300' also includes a light-transmitting film layer 310'. The light-transmitting film layer 310' has good light transmission, which facilitates the smooth penetration of laser light during the subsequent laser patterning design process of the cathode layer 510'. Thus, based on the hollow and non-hollow areas formed by laser etching of the cathode layer 510', multiple light-emitting areas 110A' and light-transmitting areas 110B' of the display panel 10' are fabricated. The laser source emits laser light from the backlight surface of the display panel 10' towards the film layer that needs to be partially etched away, that is, the laser light is emitted from the side of the substrate 200' away from the array layer 300' towards the film layer that needs to be partially etched away. The inventors discovered that in the prior art, the light-transmitting film layer 310' has a first opening 311'. Because the refractive index difference between the light-transmitting film layer 310' and the film material on the side of the light-transmitting film layer 310' away from the array layer 300' is significant—that is, the refractive index of the material filling the first opening 311' is different from the refractive index of the light-transmitting film layer 310'—light refraction easily occurs on the sidewall of the first opening 311'. Light used for patterning the cathode layer 510' is prone to deflection at this location. For example, refer to… Figure 2 As shown, the preset light is emitted in the form of a1', but the actual light is emitted in the form of a2'. This results in an uneven fabrication of the cathode layer 510', affecting the display effect of the first display area 110' of the display panel 10'.

[0037] To address the aforementioned technical problems, embodiments of the present invention provide a display panel, which includes a display area, a first display area, and multiple light-emitting and light-transmitting areas. The display panel further includes: a substrate; an array layer located on one side of the substrate, including a first light-transmitting film layer; the first light-transmitting film layer including a first opening; wherein the display panel further includes a second light-transmitting film layer, at least partially located within the first opening in the first display area; and / or, the first display area further includes a light-shielding layer located on the side of the first light-transmitting film layer near the substrate, covering at least a portion of the sidewall of the first opening along a direction perpendicular to the substrate. Placing at least a portion of the second light-transmitting film layer within the first opening in the first display area, and / or covering at least a portion of the sidewall of the first opening with a light-shielding layer, both ensure that uneven laser power preventing cathode patterning defects during subsequent cathode removal via laser, thereby improving the display effect of the display panel.

[0038] The above is the core idea of ​​this invention. The technical solutions in the embodiments of this invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Based on the embodiments of this invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0039] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a display panel provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The provided diagram shows a cross-sectional structure of the display panel along section line B-B'. Figure 5 yes Figure 3 The provided schematic diagram shows another cross-sectional structure of the display panel along section line B-B', for reference. Figures 3 to 5 As shown, the display panel 10 provided in this embodiment of the invention includes a display area 100, which includes a first display area 110. The first display area 110 includes a plurality of light-emitting areas 110A and light-transmitting areas 110B. The display panel 10 also includes: a substrate 200; an array layer 300 located on one side of the substrate 200, including a first light-transmitting film layer 310; the first light-transmitting film layer 310 includes a first opening 311, wherein the array layer 300 also includes a second light-transmitting film layer 320, which is at least partially located in the first opening 311 in the first display area 310; and / or, the first display area 110 also includes a light-shielding layer 400 located on the side of the first light-transmitting film layer 310 near the substrate 200, and along a direction h perpendicular to the substrate 200, the light-shielding layer 400 covers at least a portion of the sidewall 311A ​​of the first opening 311.

[0040] The display panel 10 includes a display area 100, which is used to implement the display function of the display panel 10. Optionally, the specific type of the display panel 10 is not limited in this embodiment of the invention. For example, the display panel 10 can be an organic light-emitting diode display panel, a micro light-emitting diode display panel, a liquid crystal display panel, or other display panels that can realize a light-transmitting area scheme. The display panel 10 includes structures for realizing the display function, such as a substrate 200, an array layer 300, and a light-emitting element 500. The array layer 300 is located on one side of the substrate 200, and the array layer 300 may include, for example, a pixel driving circuit 600, which is used to drive the light-emitting element 500 to emit light. The pixel driving circuit 600 may include at least one thin-film transistor. The specific structure of the display panel 10 is not limited in this embodiment of the invention.

[0041] Furthermore, the display area 100 of the display panel 10 includes a first display area 110, and the first display area 110 includes multiple light-emitting areas 110A and light-transmitting areas 110B. That is, the display panel 10 can realize the display function through the light-emitting areas 110A and light-transmitting areas 110B in the first display area 110, and can also acquire external light, thereby realizing functions such as shooting or user face unlocking. The embodiments of the present invention do not specifically limit the function of the display panel 10.

[0042] Specifically, in an exemplary embodiment, reference is made to... Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the array layer 300 includes a first light-transmitting film layer 310 and a second light-transmitting film layer 320. On the side of the first and second light-transmitting film layers 310 and 320 closest to the substrate 200, the array layer 300 includes stacked insulating layers and metal layers, such as a gate insulating layer 333, an active layer 332, an inter-metal insulating layer 335, a gate layer 334, a source / drain layer 338, an interlayer insulating layer 337, an insulating layer 339, or a capacitor electrode layer, etc. It also includes a pixel definition layer 3310 on the side of the first and second light-transmitting film layers 310 and 320 furthest from the substrate 200. Specifically, the specific implementation of the film layers in the array layer 300 can be customized by those skilled in the art according to actual conditions, and is not limited here.

[0043] Furthermore, the first light-transmitting film layer 310 and the second light-transmitting film layer 320 have high light transmittance, meaning they do not obstruct or interfere with the transmission of light, ensuring that the output laser light can pattern the cathode 510 on the backlight side of the display panel. Specifically, the laser source emits laser light from the backlight side of the display panel 10 towards the film layer that needs to be partially etched away. In this embodiment, the laser light is emitted from the side of the substrate 200 away from the array layer 300 towards the cathode 510. The laser light removes a portion of the cathode 510 to form a hollow area 510A, and the portion of the cathode 510 that is not removed by the laser light forms a non-hollow area 510B. Along the thickness direction h of the display panel, the hollow area 510A and the light-transmitting area 110B at least partially overlap, enabling the display panel 10 to acquire external light; the non-hollow area 510B and the light-emitting area 110A overlap, enabling the display function of the display panel 10.

[0044] Furthermore, the pixel driving circuit 600 and the light-emitting element 500 included in the array layer 300 are electrically connected across multiple different film layers. Specifically, the first light-transmitting film layer 310 includes a first opening 311, which enables cross-layer electrical connection between the pixel driving circuit 600 and the light-emitting element 500. Optionally, refer to... Figure 4 As shown, the first light-transmitting film layer 310 is located on the side of the second light-transmitting film layer 320 away from the pixel driving circuit 600, and the second light-transmitting film layer is located on the side of the insulating layer 339 close to the light-emitting element 500. Specifically, there is an opening in the insulating layer 339, and the second light-transmitting film layer 320 fills the opening in the insulating layer 339 to ensure the overall flatness of the display panel 10. Furthermore, a connection structure 3110 is included between the insulating layer 339 and the second light-transmitting film layer 320 to realize electrical connection with the source / drain layer 338 in the pixel driving circuit 600. Furthermore, multiple metal film layers or insulating layers (not specifically shown in the figure) may be included between the pixel driving circuit 600 and the light-emitting element 500. The placement position of the second light-transmitting film layer 320 can be reused for the film layer between the pixel driving circuit 600 and the light-emitting element 500. This embodiment of the invention does not specifically limit this.

[0045] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, by setting a light-shielding layer 400 below the first opening 311 or optimizing the structure of the first opening 311, the patterning of the cathode 510 can be made uniform, thereby improving the display effect of the display panel 10.

[0046] For example, refer to Figure 4As shown, the second light-transmitting film layer 320 is at least partially located in the first opening 311 of the first display area 310. In other words, along the first direction X, the first light-transmitting film layer 310 and the second light-transmitting film layer 320 overlap, where the first direction X is parallel to the plane of the display panel 10. Optionally, the second light-transmitting film layer 320 at least partially fills the first opening 311 of the first light-transmitting film layer 310. Compared to the prior art, Figure 2 In the first opening 311', the material difference between the film layer filling the first opening 311' and the light-transmitting film layer 310' outside the first opening 311' is significant. Specifically, the refractive index difference between the film layers inside and outside the first opening 311' is substantial. This means that the laser transmission path for the patterned cathode 510 will be significantly adjusted at the sidewall 311A ​​of the first opening 311, resulting in locally higher laser intensity and greater heat generation on the cathode 510, leading to uneven patterning of the cathode 510. (Referencing...) Figure 4 As shown, by optimizing the structure of the first opening 311, the second light-transmitting film layer 320 protrudes into and fills the interior of the first opening 311. Then, a second conductive layer 720 is provided to cover part of the surface of the second light-transmitting film layer 320. The protruding part is electrically connected to the first conductive layer 710, and the second light-transmitting film layer 320 contacts the second conductive layer 720 at the sidewall 311A ​​of the first opening 311. This ensures that the film layer filling the first opening 311 is the second light-transmitting film layer 320. The first light-transmitting film layer 310 and the second light-transmitting film layer 320 have high light transmittance, and the difference in refractive index between the first light-transmitting film layer 310 and the second light-transmitting film layer 320 is small. That is, the refractive index of the film material inside and outside the first opening 311 is similar. In other words, the light transmittance and light refractive index on both sides of the sidewall 311A ​​of the first opening 311 are similar. Therefore, the laser transmission path of the cathode 510 will not be significantly adjusted at the sidewall 311A ​​of the first opening 311, thus improving the display effect of the display panel 10.

[0047] Further reference Figure 4 As shown, during the fabrication of the second transparent film layer 320, a raised film layer can be directly fabricated at the position relative to the first opening 311. This facilitates the formation of the first opening 311 when the first transparent film layer 310 is then fabricated on top of it. Furthermore, by fabricating a raised structure in the second transparent film layer 320, the height of the second transparent film layer 320 can be increased, which facilitates cross-layer electrical connections between different films during the subsequent fabrication of conductive films.

[0048] For example, refer to Figure 5As shown, the display panel 10 also includes a light-shielding layer 400, which is disposed on the side of the first light-transmitting film layer 310 near the substrate 200. Specifically, the light-shielding layer 400 can block the transmission of light, that is, along the direction h perpendicular to the substrate 200, the cathode 510 where the light-shielding layer 400 is disposed will not undergo laser etching, while the cathode 510 where the light-shielding layer 400 is not disposed will undergo laser etching, thus realizing the patterned design of the cathode 510. The first light-transmitting film layer 310 includes a first opening 311, and the first opening 311 makes a significant adjustment to the laser transmission path for patterning the cathode 510, resulting in uneven patterning of the cathode 510. Specifically, the light-shielding layer 400 blocks the sidewall 311A ​​of the first opening 311 along the direction h perpendicular to the substrate 200, preventing the laser for patterning the cathode 510 from passing through the sidewall 311A ​​of the first opening 311. This avoids uneven patterning of the cathode 510 at the source. When the laser removes the cathode, by blocking the laser light that is directed toward the sidewall 311A ​​of the first opening 311, the effect of the laser path removing the cathode 510 can be made more controllable. On the other hand, it prevents the laser from hitting the sidewall 311A ​​of the first opening 311, causing light refraction, excessive laser light, and overheating in some areas, thereby improving the display effect of the display panel 10.

[0049] In summary, the display panel 10 provided in this embodiment of the invention includes a first display area 110 comprising multiple light-emitting areas 110A and light-transmitting areas 110B; and the display panel 10 further includes a substrate 200, an array layer 300, a first light-transmitting film layer 310 and a second light-transmitting film layer 320, wherein the first light-transmitting film layer 310 further includes a first opening 311. By positioning the second light-transmitting film layer 320 at least partially within the first opening 311 in the first display area 110, and / or by covering at least part of the sidewall 311A ​​of the first opening 311 with a light-shielding layer 400, it is possible to ensure that uneven laser power prevents patterning defects in the cathode 510 during subsequent patterning of the cathode 510 using laser, thereby improving the display effect of the display panel.

[0050] Continue to refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, optionally, the display panel 10 also includes a first conductive layer 710 and a second conductive layer 720 located on both sides of the first light-transmitting film layer 310, and the first conductive layer 710 and the second conductive layer 720 are electrically connected through the first opening 311.

[0051] The display panel 10 further includes a first conductive layer 710 and a second conductive layer 720, which are electrically connected to achieve electrical connection between the pixel driving circuit 600 and the light-emitting element 500 in the array layer 300, ensuring the display function of the display panel 10. Furthermore, the first light-transmitting film layer 310 includes a first opening 311, as shown in the reference... Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the pixel driving circuit 600 and the light-emitting element 500 are electrically connected across film layers at the first opening 311 through the first conductive layer 710 and the second conductive layer 720. Specifically, the second conductive layer 720 is located on the side of the second light-transmitting film layer 320 near the first light-transmitting film layer 310, as shown in the reference diagram. Figure 4 As shown, the second conductive layer 720 is prepared by coating the second transparent film layer 320 with a raised structure, as referenced. Figure 5 As shown, the second conductive layer 720 is coated and prepared with openings included in the second light-transmitting film layer 320. Furthermore, based on the adjustment of the distance between the light-emitting element 500 and the pixel driving circuit 600, the number of openings and film layers can be adaptively increased to ensure the electrical connection between the light-emitting element 500 and the pixel driving circuit 600. Moreover, by increasing the number of openings and film layers, the number and size of the light-transmitting areas 110B can be increased, improving the display panel 10's ability to capture external light. Furthermore, in the array layer 300, other film layers may also have cross-layer connections between metal traces on different film layers achieved by setting openings. For example, in the pixel driving circuit 600, cross-layer connections between different metal film layers are achieved by setting openings. This embodiment of the invention does not specifically limit this aspect.

[0052] Optionally, the first conductive layer 710 and the second conductive layer 720 can also be made of indium tin oxide or other materials with high transparency, which facilitates the fabrication of the patterned cathode 510. In this embodiment of the invention, the materials of the first conductive layer 710 and the second conductive layer 720 are not specifically limited.

[0053] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 The provided schematic diagram shows another cross-sectional structure of the display panel along section line B-B'. Figure 7 yes Figure 3 The provided schematic diagram continues along section line B-B' with another cross-sectional view of the display panel. (Refer to...) Figures 3 to 7 As shown, the display panel 10 also includes a light-emitting element 500 located on the side of the array layer 300 away from the substrate 200. The light-emitting element 500 includes a cathode 510, a light-emitting layer 520 and an anode 530. The first conductive layer 710 is the same layer and material as the anode 530.

[0054] Specifically, the light-emitting element 500 in the display panel 10 includes a cathode 510, a light-emitting layer 520, and an anode 530. Electrons and holes generated between the cathode 510 and the anode 520 emit light when they meet in the light-emitting layer 520, thus enabling the display panel 10 to emit light. Further, refer to... Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the first conductive layer 710 and the anode 530 are disposed in the same layer, which enables a thinner design for the display panel 10. Furthermore, to save on the manufacturing process of the display panel 10, the first conductive layer 710 and the anode 530 can be manufactured using the same materials and the same process, reducing the manufacturing cost of the display panel 10. For example, refer to... Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the first conductive layer 710 can be reused as an anode 530 in the area where the light-emitting element 500 is located, further reducing the process cost of manufacturing the display panel 10.

[0055] refer to Figures 3 to 7 As shown, the array layer 300 includes a pixel driving circuit 600, and the second conductive layer 720 is electrically connected to or located in the pixel driving circuit 600.

[0056] Specifically, the pixel driving circuit 600 includes alternating insulating and metal layers, specifically comprising: a buffer layer 331, an active layer 332, a gate insulating layer 333, a gate layer 334, an inter-metal insulating layer 335, a capacitor metal layer 336, an inter-layer insulating layer 337, a source / drain layer 338, and an insulating layer 339. Optionally, a connection structure 3110 is formed on one side of the first light-transmitting film layer 310 and the second light-transmitting film layer 320 to realize the electrical connection between the pixel driving circuit 600 and the light-emitting element 500. Further, the pixel driving circuit includes thin-film transistors and capacitors, and the array layer 300 may include multiple pixel driving circuits 600. Specifically, the specific implementation of the pixel driving circuit 600 can be set by those skilled in the art according to the actual situation, and is not limited here. For example, the pixel driving circuit includes "7T1C", "2T1C", etc., where "T" represents a thin-film transistor and "C" represents a capacitor.

[0057] Further reference Figures 4 to 7 As shown, the second conductive layer 720 is electrically connected to the pixel driving circuit 600 through the connection structure 3110, ensuring that the pixel driving circuit 600 drives the light-emitting element 500 to emit light. For example, the second conductive layer 720 can also be reused in the connection structure of the pixel driving circuit 600 to drive the light-emitting element 500 to emit light, further reducing the manufacturing cost of the display panel 10. This embodiment of the invention does not impose specific limitations on this aspect.

[0058] Continue to refer to Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, along the direction h perpendicular to the substrate 200, the light-shielding layer 400 includes a first sub-shielding layer 410, which covers at least a portion of the light-emitting element 500.

[0059] Among them, reference Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, the light-shielding layer 400 includes a first sub-light-shielding layer 410. Along a direction h perpendicular to the substrate 200, the first sub-light-shielding layer 410 at least partially overlaps with the light-emitting element 500. The first sub-light-shielding layer 410 can prevent the laser used for patterning the cathode 510 from being transmitted to the light-emitting element 500, thus preventing the light-emitting element 500 from being irradiated by the laser and ensuring the lifespan of the light-emitting element 500. In other words, the light-shielding layer 400 provided in this embodiment of the invention, while ensuring uniform patterning of the cathode 510, can also protect the light-emitting element 500, preventing it from being affected by the etching laser irradiated from the back of the display panel 10, thereby ensuring the integrity of the light-emitting element 500 and its light-emitting performance, and thus more effectively improving the display effect of the display panel 10.

[0060] Continue to refer to Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, the light-shielding layer 400 comprises a metallic material.

[0061] Among them, metallic materials can absorb and / or reflect light, meaning that the light-shielding layer 400 made of metallic materials has a better light-blocking effect. Furthermore, since there are many metallic film layers in the array layer 300, when the light-shielding layer 400 is fabricated using metallic materials, the metallic film layers in the array layer 300 can be reused in the light-shielding layer 400, simplifying the fabrication process and saving fabrication costs.

[0062] Figure 8 yes Figure 3 The provided schematic diagram shows another cross-sectional structure of the display panel along section line B-B'. Please refer to the following for further details. Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the array layer 300 includes multiple metal traces, some of which are reused as a light-shielding layer 400.

[0063] The position of the light-shielding layer 400 in the array layer 300 is quite flexible; it can be independently positioned within the display panel 10, for example... Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown. Since the array layer 300 includes multiple metal traces, the light-shielding layer 400 can reuse some of these metal traces during fabrication, thus simplifying the fabrication process and reducing costs. (Refer to...) Figure 8 As shown, the light-shielding layer 400 and the gate layer 334 are disposed on the same layer. This embodiment of the invention does not impose specific limitations on this.

[0064] Continue to refer to Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, the refractive index difference between the first transparent film layer 310 and the second transparent film layer 320 is less than or equal to 0.1.

[0065] The second light-transmitting film layer 320 is at least partially located in the first opening 311 of the first display area 310. That is, the first opening 311 is filled with the second light-transmitting film 320, and the first light-transmitting film 310 is located outside the first opening 311 parallel to the array layer 300. Specifically, the laser light used for patterning the cathode 510 penetrates the first opening 311, passes through the second light-transmitting film layer 320 at the sidewall 311A ​​of the first opening 311, and then passes through the first light-transmitting film layer 310. Furthermore, the refractive index difference between the first light-transmitting film layer 310 and the second light-transmitting film layer 320 is less than or equal to 0.1, that is, the refractive indices of the first light-transmitting film layer 310 and the second light-transmitting film layer 320 are similar or the same. Even if there is a difference in the refractive index difference between the first light-transmitting film layer 310 and the second light-transmitting film layer 320, the difference is less than or equal to 0.1. Under the above circumstances, on the one hand, the light transmission path will not be significantly deflected, making the laser removal of the cathode 510 more controllable; on the other hand, it can ensure that the laser light is emitted in a direction h that is almost perpendicular to the substrate 200, ensuring that the cathode 510 will not have excessive laser power in some areas, resulting in high heat generation, thus ensuring the uniformity of the patterning of the cathode 510, and thereby ensuring the display effect of the display panel 10.

[0066] Continue to refer to Figure 4 As shown, along the direction h perpendicular to the display panel 10, the first light-transmitting film layer 310 is located on one side of the second light-transmitting film layer 320, and the first opening 311 includes at least a first sub-opening 311B facing the side of the second light-transmitting film layer 320.

[0067] The first light-transmitting film layer 310 includes a first opening 311, as shown in the reference. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the first opening 311 is disposed between the first light-transmitting film layer 310 and the second light-transmitting film layer 320, allowing for cross-layer arrangement of the first light-transmitting film layer 310 and the second light-transmitting film layer 320. Specifically, the first opening 311 includes a first sub-opening 311B, see reference. Figure 4As shown, the interior of the first sub-opening is filled with a second light-transmitting film layer 320, meaning the opening direction of the first sub-opening 311B faces the second light-transmitting film layer 320. By adjusting the orientation of the first opening 311, i.e., the first sub-opening 311B, it can be ensured that the film layer filled inside the first opening 311 is the second light-transmitting film layer 320. The light transmittance of the first light-transmitting film layer 310 and the second light-transmitting film layer 320 is high, meaning that the refractive index of the film material inside and outside the first opening 311 is similar. In other words, the light transmittance and refractive index on both sides of the sidewall 311A ​​of the first opening 311 are similar. Therefore, at the first opening 311, there will be no significant adjustment to the laser transmission path of the patterned cathode 510, thus improving the display effect of the display panel 10.

[0068] Figure 9 This is an enlarged schematic diagram of a first opening provided in an embodiment of the present invention. (Continued reference...) Figure 4 , Figure 6 and Figure 9 As shown, the first opening 311 has at least one sidewall 311A, which is in contact with the second light-transmitting film layer 320.

[0069] The first opening 311 may include at least one side wall 311A. The interior of the first opening 311 is filled with a second light-transmitting film layer 320 via the side wall 311A, and the exterior of the first opening 311 is a first light-transmitting film layer 310. The first opening 311 is formed by providing multiple side walls 311A. Figure 4 , Figure 6 and Figure 9 As shown, the first opening 311 includes two sidewalls 311A ​​as an example for illustration. This embodiment of the invention does not impose specific limitations on this.

[0070] Figure 10 yes Figure 3 The provided schematic diagram shows another cross-sectional structure of the display panel along section line B-B', for reference. Figure 10 As shown, the array layer 300 also includes a second opening 312. Along a direction perpendicular to the substrate 200, the second opening 312 overlaps with the light-emitting element 500, and the light-shielding layer 400 covers at least a portion of the sidewall 312A of the second opening 312.

[0071] The array layer 300 further includes a second opening 312, and the second opening 312 is located at the point where it overlaps with the light-emitting element 500 along a direction perpendicular to the substrate 200, i.e., as shown below. Figure 10As shown, when the light-shielding layer 400 blocks the sidewall 312A of the second opening 312, it can directly and synchronously block the light-emitting element 500. This avoids the laser light used for patterning the cathode 510 from affecting the light-emitting element 500, and also prevents the laser light from changing its transmission direction when passing through the second opening 312. Simultaneously, it reduces the fabrication size of the light-shielding layer 400, saving costs. While ensuring the light transmittance of the display panel 10, it also ensures the uniformity of the cathode 510 pattern, thus improving the display effect of the display panel 10.

[0072] Continue to refer to Figures 3 to 10 As shown, the first display area 110 is reused as a light-sensing element setting area.

[0073] Specifically, the first display area 110 includes multiple light-emitting areas 110A and light-transmitting areas 110B. The light-emitting areas 110A realize the display and light-emitting function of the display panel 10, and the light-transmitting areas 110B realize the acquisition of external light. That is, a photosensitive element can be set in the first display area 110 on the backlight side of the display panel 10 to acquire the light transmitted in the light-transmitting areas 110B, so as to realize the functions of shooting or user face unlock. In other words, the first display area 110 can be reused as a setting area for photosensitive elements, which facilitates the realization of the full-screen display effect of the display panel 10.

[0074] Figure 11 yes Figure 3 The provided display panel is shown in a cross-sectional structural diagram along the section line C-C'. The display area 100 also includes a second display area 120, and the coverage area of ​​the cathode 510 in the second display area 120 is greater than the coverage area of ​​the cathode 510 in the first display area 110.

[0075] The display panel 10 includes a first display area 110 and a second display area 120. The first display area 110, while performing the display function, also primarily ensures the display panel 10's ability to capture external light, enabling functions such as photography or user facial recognition. The second display area 120 primarily performs the display function of the display panel 10; therefore, the size and number of light-transmitting areas 110B are not required, and thus, light-transmitting areas 110B can be omitted. Furthermore, the formation of the light-transmitting areas 110B is based on the patterned design of the cathode 510. Specifically, the degree of patterning of the cathode 510 in the second display area 120 is such that the number of hollow areas 510A in the second display area 120 is less than the number of hollow areas 510A in the cathode 510 in the first display area 110. This means the coverage area of ​​the cathode 510 in the second display area 120 is greater than the coverage area of ​​the cathode 510 in the first display area 110, ensuring the overall display effect of the display panel 10.

[0076] Continue to refer to Figure 11As shown, the first display area 110 includes a first light-emitting element 500A; the second display area 120 includes a second light-emitting element 500B, a first pixel driving circuit 600A, and a second pixel driving circuit 600B; the first pixel driving circuit 600A is electrically connected to the first light-emitting element 500A, and the second pixel driving circuit 600B is electrically connected to the second light-emitting element 500B. Along the direction h perpendicular to the display panel 10, neither the first pixel driving circuit 600A nor the second pixel driving circuit 600B overlaps with the first display area 110.

[0077] The first display area 110 includes a first light-emitting element 500A, and the second display area 120 includes a second light-emitting element 500B. The display panel 10 achieves a full display effect through the first light-emitting element 500A and the second light-emitting element 500B. Furthermore, the first light-emitting element 500A is driven by a first pixel driving circuit 600A, and the second light-emitting element 500B is driven by a second pixel driving circuit 600B. To ensure high light transmittance in the light-transmitting area 110B within the first display area 110, both the first pixel driving circuit 600A and the second pixel driving circuit 600B can be located within the second display area 120. (Refer to...) Figure 11 As shown, while ensuring the display effect of the display panel 10, the light acquisition effect of the display panel 10 is also guaranteed.

[0078] Continue to refer to Figures 3 to 11 As shown, display area 100 is a transparent display area.

[0079] The display area 100 is a transparent display area, which means that it will not affect the display of the display panel 10 and ensure the display effect of the display panel 10. At the same time, the display panel 10 is a transparent display area, which will not block the light-transmitting area 110B from receiving external light, thus ensuring the full-screen transparent display effect of the display panel 10.

[0080] Based on the same inventive concept, embodiments of the present invention also provide a method for manufacturing a display panel. Figure 12 This is a schematic flowchart of a method for manufacturing a display panel according to an embodiment of the invention; as shown. Figure 12 As shown, the method for manufacturing a display panel provided in this embodiment of the invention specifically includes:

[0081] S110, Provides a substrate.

[0082] For example, the provided substrate can be a rigid substrate, such as glass, and the embodiments of the present invention do not specifically limit the material of the substrate.

[0083] S120. An array layer and multiple light-emitting elements are formed on one side of a substrate. The light-emitting elements include an anode, a light-emitting layer and a cathode stacked sequentially in a direction away from the substrate.

[0084] In this embodiment, an array layer and multiple light-emitting elements are formed on one side of the substrate. The array layer includes a pixel driving circuit, which drives the light-emitting elements to emit light, thereby realizing the display function of the display panel. Furthermore, the array layer includes an insulating layer and a metal layer alternately disposed on one side of the substrate, such as a gate insulating layer, an active layer, an intermetallic insulating layer, a metal layer, an interlayer insulating layer, a capacitor plate layer, or a pixel definition layer, etc. The specific structure of the display panel is not limited in this embodiment.

[0085] For example, the light-emitting element in the display panel includes a cathode, a light-emitting layer, and an anode. When electrons and holes generated between the cathode and the anode meet in the light-emitting layer, they emit light, thus realizing the display light emission of the display panel.

[0086] S130. Using a laser to irradiate the substrate, a cathode layer including a cutout area is formed in the first display area, and the cutout area overlaps with the light-transmitting area along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the display panel.

[0087] In this process, laser etching can be used to pattern the cathode, creating hollow and light-transmitting areas, thus forming a patterned cathode layer. The hollow and light-transmitting areas overlap, ensuring that external light passes through the hollow areas to reach the light-transmitting areas, facilitating functions such as camera capture or facial recognition for user unlocking. Specifically, the laser source emits a laser beam from the backlight side of the display panel towards the layer to be partially etched; that is, the laser is emitted from the side of the substrate away from the array layer towards the layer to be partially etched. Furthermore, the laser beam is incident on the backlight side of the substrate, ensuring that impurities generated after laser cutting are promptly removed, preventing these impurities from affecting the stability of the display panel.

[0088] Furthermore, the pixel driving circuit and light-emitting element included in the array layer are electrically connected across multiple different film layers. Specifically, the first light-transmitting film layer includes a first opening, which enables cross-layer electrical connection between the pixel driving circuit and the light-emitting element. By setting a shielding layer below the first opening or optimizing the structure of the first opening, the patterning of the cathode is made more uniform, improving the display effect of the display panel.

[0089] Specifically, the array layer also includes a first light-transmitting film layer and a second light-transmitting film layer. The first light-transmitting film layer includes a first opening, and the second light-transmitting film layer is at least partially located within the first opening in the first display area. That is, the second light-transmitting film layer protrudes and fills the interior of the first opening at its location, and the second light-transmitting film layer contacts the sidewall of the first opening, ensuring that the film layer structures contacting the sidewall of the first opening are the first light-transmitting film layer and the second light-transmitting film layer, respectively. In other words, the refractive index of the film layer material inside and outside the first opening is similar, so the laser transmission path of the cathode, which is patterned, will not be significantly adjusted at the sidewall of the first opening, thus improving the display effect of the display panel.

[0090] In other words, the first and second light-transmitting film layers have high light transmittance, meaning they will not obstruct or interfere with the transmission of laser light, ensuring that the output laser light can pattern the cathode on the backlight side of the display panel. This cathode patterning design allows for the creation of a light-transmitting area in the hollowed-out area of ​​the cathode and a light-emitting area in the non-hollowed-out area.

[0091] Specifically, the display panel also includes a first conductive layer and a second conductive layer located on both sides of the first light-transmitting film layer. The first conductive layer and the second conductive layer are electrically connected through a first opening. The first conductive layer may be in the same layer and material as the anode, and the second conductive layer may be electrically connected to the pixel driving circuit located in the array layer or located in the pixel driving circuit. Furthermore, at least part of the first opening overlaps with the hollow area along the direction perpendicular to the display panel.

[0092] The display panel further includes a first conductive layer and a second conductive layer, which are electrically connected to achieve electrical connection between the pixel driving circuit and the light-emitting element in the array layer, ensuring the display function of the display panel. Furthermore, the first light-transmitting film layer includes a first opening, at which the pixel driving circuit and the light-emitting element are electrically connected across the film layer. Moreover, by adjusting the distance between the light-emitting element and the pixel driving circuit, the number of openings and film layers can be adaptively increased to ensure the electrical connection between the light-emitting element and the pixel driving circuit. Increasing the number of openings and film layers also increases the number of light-transmitting areas, improving the display panel's ability to capture external light.

[0093] Furthermore, other film layers in the array layer can also be connected across layers by setting openings to enable metal traces on different film layers. For example, in the pixel driving circuit, different metal film layers can be connected across layers by setting openings. This embodiment of the invention does not impose specific limitations on this.

[0094] Optionally, the first and second conductive layers can also be made of indium tin oxide or other highly transparent materials to facilitate the patterning process of the cathode. This embodiment of the invention does not specifically limit the materials of the first and second conductive layers. Furthermore, the first conductive layer can be reused as the anode in the area where the light-emitting element is located, further reducing the manufacturing cost of the display panel.

[0095] Furthermore, the first display area also includes a light-shielding layer located on the side of the first light-transmitting film layer near the substrate, and the light-shielding layer covers at least part of the sidewall of the first opening along a direction perpendicular to the display panel.

[0096] The display panel also includes a light-shielding layer, which is located on the side of the first light-transmitting film layer closest to the substrate. Specifically, the light-shielding layer blocks the transmission of light; that is, along the direction perpendicular to the substrate, the cathode where the light-shielding layer is located will not undergo laser etching, while the cathode where the light-shielding layer is not located will undergo laser etching, thus achieving the patterning design of the cathode. Since the first light-transmitting film layer includes a first opening, and this first opening significantly adjusts the laser transmission path for patterning the cathode, leading to uneven patterning of the cathode, the light-shielding layer blocks the sidewall of the first opening 311 along the direction perpendicular to the substrate, preventing the laser for patterning the cathode from passing through the first opening. This avoids uneven patterning of the cathode at the source, improving the display effect of the display panel.

[0097] In summary, the display panel fabrication method provided by the embodiments of the present invention can ensure the fabrication of a stable cathode during subsequent cathode patterning by placing at least a portion of the second light-transmitting film layer in the first opening in the first display area, and / or by covering at least a portion of the sidewall of the first opening with a light-shielding layer, thereby improving the display effect of the display panel.

[0098] Based on the same inventive concept, embodiments of the present invention also provide a display device. Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a display device provided in an embodiment of the present invention, such as... Figure 13 As shown, the display device 1 includes the display panel 10 described in any of the above embodiments. Therefore, the display device 1 provided in this embodiment of the invention possesses the corresponding beneficial effects described in the above embodiments, which will not be repeated here. For example, the display device 1 can be an electronic device such as a mobile phone, computer, smart wearable device (e.g., smartwatch), and in-vehicle display device, and this embodiment of the invention does not limit it.

[0099] Note that the above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and the technical principles employed. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described herein, and various obvious changes, readjustments, and substitutions can be made without departing from the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, although the present invention has been described in detail through the above embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and may include many other equivalent embodiments without departing from the concept of the present invention, the scope of which is determined by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display panel, characterized in that, The display panel includes a display area, which includes a first display area, and the first display area includes multiple light-emitting areas and light-transmitting areas; the display panel also includes: Substrate; An array layer, located on one side of the substrate, includes a first light-transmitting film layer; the first light-transmitting film layer includes a first opening. The array layer further includes a second light-transmitting film layer, which is at least partially located in the first opening in the first display area; And / or, The first display area also includes a light-shielding layer located on the side of the first light-transmitting film layer near the substrate, and along a direction perpendicular to the substrate, the light-shielding layer covers at least a portion of the sidewall of the first opening; Along a direction perpendicular to the display panel, the first light-transmitting film layer is located on one side of the second light-transmitting film layer, and the first opening includes at least a first sub-opening facing the side of the second light-transmitting film layer.

2. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The display panel further includes a first conductive layer and a second conductive layer located on both sides of the first light-transmitting film layer, and the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer are electrically connected through the first opening.

3. The display panel according to claim 2, characterized in that, The display panel also includes a light-emitting element located on the side of the array layer away from the substrate. The light-emitting element includes a cathode, a light-emitting layer, and an anode. The first conductive layer is the same layer and material as the anode.

4. The display panel according to claim 2, characterized in that, The array layer includes a pixel driving circuit, and the second conductive layer is electrically connected to or located within the pixel driving circuit.

5. The display panel according to claim 3, characterized in that, Along a direction perpendicular to the substrate, the light-shielding layer includes a first sub-shielding layer that covers at least a portion of the light-emitting element.

6. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The light-shielding layer comprises a metallic material.

7. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The array layer includes multiple metal traces, some of which are reused as the light-shielding layer.

8. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The refractive index difference between the first and second light-transmitting film layers is less than or equal to 0.

1.

9. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first opening has at least one sidewall that is in contact with the second light-transmitting film layer.

10. The display panel according to claim 3, characterized in that, The array layer further includes a second opening along a direction perpendicular to the substrate, the second opening overlapping the light-emitting element, and the light-shielding layer covering at least a portion of the sidewall of the second opening.

11. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first display area is reused as a photosensitive element setting area.

12. The display panel according to claim 3, characterized in that, The display area further includes a second display area, wherein the coverage area of ​​the cathode in the second display area is greater than the coverage area of ​​the cathode in the first display area.

13. The display panel according to claim 12, characterized in that, The first display area includes a first light-emitting element; the second display area includes a second light-emitting element, a first pixel driving circuit, and a second pixel driving circuit; the first pixel driving circuit is electrically connected to the first light-emitting element, and the second pixel driving circuit is electrically connected to the second light-emitting element. Along the direction perpendicular to the display panel, neither the first pixel driving circuit nor the second pixel driving circuit overlaps with the first display area.

14. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The display area is a transparent display area.

15. A method for manufacturing a display panel, characterized in that, include: Provide substrates; An array layer and a plurality of light-emitting elements are formed on one side of the substrate. The light-emitting elements include an anode, a light-emitting layer and a cathode stacked sequentially in a direction away from the substrate. The substrate is irradiated with a laser to form a cathode layer including a cutout area in the first display area, and the cutout area overlaps with the light-transmitting area along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the display panel. The array layer includes a first light-transmitting film layer and a second light-transmitting film layer; the first light-transmitting film layer includes a first opening, and the second light-transmitting film layer is at least partially located in the first opening in the first display area; The display panel further includes a first conductive layer and a second conductive layer located on both sides of the first light-transmitting film layer. The first conductive layer and the second conductive layer are electrically connected through the first opening. The first conductive layer is in the same layer and made of the same material as the anode. The second conductive layer is electrically connected to or located in the pixel driving circuit located in the array layer. Furthermore, at least part of the first opening overlaps with the hollow area along a direction perpendicular to the display panel. And / or, The first display area also includes a light-shielding layer located on the side of the first light-transmitting film layer near the substrate, along a direction perpendicular to the display panel, the light-shielding layer covering at least a portion of the sidewall of the first opening; Along a direction perpendicular to the display panel, the first light-transmitting film layer is located on one side of the second light-transmitting film layer, and the first opening includes at least a first sub-opening facing the side of the second light-transmitting film layer.

16. A display device, characterized in that, Includes the display panel described in any one of claims 1 to 14.

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