Display device

Abstract

A display device is provided, the display device including: a substrate including a first area having a first light transmittance and a second area adjacent to the first area having a second light transmittance; a plurality of pixels disposed on a first surface of the substrate; a fingerprint sensor disposed in the first area on a second surface of the substrate. The first light transmittance is greater than the second light transmittance.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on August 15, 2017, with application number 201710697441.5 and title "Display Device". Technical Field

[0002] The invention generally relates to a display device, and more specifically, to a display device that includes a fingerprint sensor. Background Technology

[0003] As interest in displays and demand for portable information media have increased, research and commercialization of display devices have attracted more attention.

[0004] Recently, display devices, including those with touch sensors for user input, have been commercialized. This allows users to use display devices more conveniently via touch sensors.

[0005] In addition, display devices with enhanced security features that utilize fingerprints have recently been developed.

[0006] The information disclosed in this background section is intended only to enhance the understanding of the background of the inventive concept, and therefore may contain information that does not constitute prior art known to a person skilled in the art in this country. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The display device constructed according to the inventive principle can enhance the security functions of the display device by including a fingerprint sensor with improved sensitivity.

[0008] Furthermore, the display device constructed according to the inventive principle with improved fingerprint sensor sensitivity can be a flexible display device, and can be able to sense touch position and touch pressure.

[0009] Other aspects will be set forth in the following detailed description and will partly become clear through disclosure or through the practice of the inventive concept.

[0010] According to one aspect of the invention, the display device includes: a substrate including a first region having a first transmittance and a second region adjacent to the first region having a second transmittance; a plurality of pixels disposed on a first surface of the substrate; and a fingerprint sensor disposed on a second surface of the substrate in the first region. The first transmittance is greater than the second transmittance.

[0011] The plurality of pixels may include at least one first pixel located in the first region and at least one second pixel located in the second region.

[0012] The first pixel may include the luminescent area of ​​the displayed image and the transmissive area through which light is transmitted.

[0013] The first pixel may include at least one first sub-pixel disposed in the light-emitting region. The first sub-pixel may include: a first electrode disposed on a substrate; an emitting layer disposed on the first electrode; and a second electrode disposed on the emitting layer.

[0014] The display device may further include an insulating layer disposed between the substrate and the first electrode, wherein the insulating layer extends into the transmissive region. The display device may also include at least one of a pixel defining layer and a passivation layer disposed above the substrate, wherein the insulating layer extends into at least one of the pixel defining layer and the passivation layer. In an exemplary embodiment, the first electrode and the second electrode may extend across the transmissive region.

[0015] The first sub-pixel may further include at least one structure selected from the group consisting of a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, an electron transport layer, and an electron injection layer, wherein the at least one structure is disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode, and wherein the at least one structure may extend across the transmission region.

[0016] The second pixel may include at least one second sub-pixel, wherein the size of the first sub-pixel is smaller than the size of the second sub-pixel. According to an exemplary embodiment, each of the first and second sub-pixels may emit light of a wavelength selected from the group consisting of red, green, and blue light.

[0017] The size of the first pixel can be the same as the size of the second pixel, and the fingerprint sensor can be a light sensor or an ultrasonic sensor.

[0018] The display device may further include a first sensor disposed on a substrate to sense a touch position input by a user. Furthermore, the first sensor may be a self-capacitance type touch sensor or a mutual capacitance type touch sensor. The first sensor may include: a first touch electrode; and a second touch electrode, spaced apart from the first touch electrode and forming a capacitor with the first touch electrode.

[0019] The first touch electrode may include a mesh structure. The first touch electrode may include a conductive polymer.

[0020] The display device may also include a second sensor disposed on a first surface of the substrate and spaced apart from the first sensor, and sense touch pressure.

[0021] The second sensor may include a conductive polymer.

[0022] The first sensor may have a hole located in the first region, and the touch electrode of the first sensor may be disposed in the second region. The touch electrode of the second sensor may include a portion located in the first region and a portion located in the second region.

[0023] The sensing type of the first sensor can be different from that of the second sensor.

[0024] At least a portion of the display device may be flexible and may be bendable or rollable.

[0025] The transmission area may not contain any light-emitting components.

[0026] The first surface may include the front surface of the substrate, and the second surface may include the rear surface of the substrate.

[0027] According to another aspect of the invention, a display device includes: a substrate including a first region having a first transmittance and a second region adjacent to the first region having a second transmittance; a plurality of pixels disposed on a first surface of the substrate; a first sensor disposed on the first surface of the substrate for sensing a touch position; a second sensor disposed on the first surface of the substrate and spaced apart from the first sensor for sensing pressure applied by a user touch; and a fingerprint sensor disposed on the second surface of the substrate in the first region. The first region includes a light-emitting region configured to display an image and a light-transmitting region configured to transmit light.

[0028] The light-transmitting area may not have any light-emitting components.

[0029] Therefore, the display device constructed according to the inventive principle provides enhanced security features by including an improved fingerprint sensor.

[0030] Furthermore, an exemplary embodiment of the invention provides a high-quality display device in which the resolution of the area including the fingerprint sensor is substantially the same as the resolution of the area excluding the fingerprint sensor.

[0031] In addition, an exemplary embodiment of the invention provides a display device capable of sensing touch location and touch pressure, as well as fingerprints, thereby enhancing ease of use.

[0032] The foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and illustrative, and are intended to provide further illustration of the claimed subject matter. Attached Figure Description

[0033] The accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the inventive concept, wherein the drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the inventive concept, and the drawings are included in and constitute a part of this specification.

[0034] Figure 1A It is a plan view of a display device constructed based on the principles of the invention.

[0035] Figure 1B It is along Figure 1AA sectional view taken by line I-I'.

[0036] Figure 2 This is a block diagram that graphically illustrates some components of an exemplary display device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0037] Figure 3 This is a plan view illustrating an exemplary display panel constructed according to the principles of the invention.

[0038] Figure 4A It is shown Figure 3 The first pixel from Figure 3 The position shown is rotated 90 degrees in a plan view.

[0039] Figure 4B It is along Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the first pixel intercepted by line II-II'.

[0040] Figure 4C It is along Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of the second embodiment of the first pixel intercepted by line II-II'.

[0041] Figure 5A It is shown Figure 3 The second pixel in Figure 3 The position shown is rotated 90 degrees in the plan view. Figure 5B It is along Figure 5A The sectional view taken from line III-III'.

[0042] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary display device taken along the line corresponding to line I-I' in Figure 1.

[0043] Figure 7 This is a block diagram that graphically illustrates some components of an exemplary display device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0044] Figure 8A An exemplary first sensor of the self-capacitance type is shown that can be used in a display device of the invention.

[0045] Figure 8B An exemplary first sensor of mutual capacitance type is shown that can be used in a display device for the invention.

[0046] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary display device taken along the line corresponding to line I-I' in Figure 1.

[0047] Figure 10 This is a block diagram that graphically illustrates some components of an exemplary display device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0048] Figures 11A to 11CThis is a plan view showing the second sensor according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0049] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary display device taken along the line corresponding to line I-I' in Figure 1.

[0050] Figure 13 It is shown in Figure 12 A plan view of the first sensor in the display device.

[0051] Figure 14 This is a perspective view showing a display device constructed according to the principles of the invention.

[0052] Figure 15A It indicates that it is in a folded state. Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the display device.

[0053] Figure 15B It indicates that it is in a curled state. Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the display device. Detailed Implementation

[0054] For illustrative purposes, several specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of various exemplary embodiments. However, it will be apparent that various exemplary embodiments may be implemented without these specific details or with one or more equivalent arrangements. In other instances, well-known structures and apparatuses are shown in block diagram form to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the various exemplary embodiments.

[0055] In the accompanying drawings, for clarity and descriptive purposes, the dimensions and relative dimensions of layers, films, panels, areas, etc., may be exaggerated. Furthermore, the same reference numerals indicate the same elements.

[0056] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "bonded to" another element or layer, the element or layer may be directly on, directly connected to, or directly bonded to the other element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or intermediate layers. However, when an element or layer is referred to as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly bonded to" another element or layer, there are no intermediate elements or intermediate layers. For the purposes of this disclosure, "at least one of X, Y, and Z" and "at least one selected from the group consisting of X, Y, and Z" can be interpreted as only X, only Y, only Z, or any combination of two or more of X, Y, and Z, such as XYZ, XYY, YZ, and ZZ. The same reference numerals always indicate the same elements. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the related listed items.

[0057] Although the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or parts, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or part from another element, component, region, layer, and / or part. Therefore, without departing from the publicly stated teachings, the first element, component, region, layer, and / or part discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, and / or part.

[0058] For descriptive purposes, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “below,” “above,” and “above” are used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to other elements or features as shown in the accompanying drawings. In addition to the orientations depicted in the drawings, spatial relative terms are also intended to include different orientations of the device during use, operation, and / or manufacture. For example, if the device in the drawings is flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features would subsequently be positioned “above” said other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “below” can encompass both above and below orientations. Furthermore, the device may be otherwise positioned (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), thus interpreting the spatial relative descriptors used herein accordingly.

[0059] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well. Furthermore, when the terms “comprising,” “including,” and / or variations thereof are used in this specification, it indicates the presence of the stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0060] Various exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional views that serve as schematic diagrams of idealized exemplary embodiments and / or intermediate structures. Thus, variations in the shapes shown in the drawings will be expected due to factors such as manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein should not be construed as limited to the shapes of the specifically shown areas, but will include deviations in shape due to factors such as manufacturing. For example, an injection area shown as rectangular will typically have rounded or curved features at its edges and / or a gradient of injection concentration, rather than a binary variation from an injection area to a non-injection area. Similarly, a buried area formed by injection may cause some injection in the area between the buried area and the surface where the injection occurs. Therefore, the areas shown in the figures are schematic in nature, and their shapes are not intended to show the actual shapes of the areas of the device, nor are they intended to be limiting.

[0061] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure is a part. Unless expressly defined herein, terms (such as those defined in a general dictionary) shall be interpreted as having the same meaning as they have in the context of the relevant field and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formalized sense.

[0062] Figure 1A This is a plan view of a display device constructed based on the principles of the invention. Figure 1B It is along Figure 1A A sectional view taken by line I-I'. Figure 2 This is a block diagram that graphically illustrates some components of an exemplary display device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0063] Reference Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 2 An exemplary display device DP includes a display panel PNL and a window WD disposed on the front surface of the display panel PNL.

[0064] The display panel PNL displays arbitrary visual information (e.g., text, video, pictures, two-dimensional or three-dimensional images, etc.) on its front surface. The type of display panel PNL that displays the image is not particularly important, and the invention does not limit the specific type of display device.

[0065] Therefore, in this exemplary embodiment, the display panel PNL is described as an organic light-emitting display panel as an example. However, the types of display panel PNLs are not limited to this, and other display panel PNLs may be used within the scope of the invention.

[0066] The display panel PNL can be configured in various shapes, such as a rectangular plate shape with two pairs of parallel sides. When the display panel PNL is configured as a rectangular plate shape, one pair of sides selected from the two pairs of sides can be longer than the other pair of sides. In an exemplary embodiment, for ease of description, the shape of the display panel PNL is described as a rectangular shape with a pair of long sides and a pair of short sides.

[0067] However, the shape of the display panel PNL is not limited to this; the display panel PNL can have various shapes. For example, the display panel PNL can have various shapes, such as a closed polygon including sides made of straight lines, a circle or ellipse including sides made of curves, a semicircle or semi-ellipse including sides made of both straight lines and curves. In an exemplary embodiment, when the display panel PNL has sides made of straight lines, at least a portion of the end of each side can be made of curves. For example, when the display panel PNL has a rectangular shape, the portions where adjacent straight lines intersect each other can be replaced by curves with a predetermined curvature. That is, the vertices of the rectangular shape can be made of curved edges, the adjacent opposite ends of which are connected to two straight edges, and the curved edges have a predetermined curvature.

[0068] Curvature can vary depending on location. For example, curvature can vary depending on the starting position of the curve, the length of the curve, etc.

[0069] The entire portion or at least a portion of the display panel PNL can have the flexibility known in the art. For example, the display panel PNL can be flexible over the entire area, or it can be flexible in a region corresponding to a flexible area.

[0070] The display panel PNL can display an image on its front surface. The display panel PNL includes a display area DA that displays the image via a display unit PP and a non-display area NDA disposed on at least one side of the display area DA. For example, the non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA.

[0071] The shape of the display area DA can correspond to the shape of the display device DP. For example, like the shape of the display device DP, the display area DA can have various shapes, such as a closed polygon with sides made of straight lines, a circle or ellipse with sides made of curved lines, and a semicircle or semi-ellipse with sides made of both straight lines and curved lines. In an exemplary embodiment, the display area DA can have a rectangular shape.

[0072] The display panel PNL includes a first region A1 for sensing fingerprints and a second region A2 adjacent to the first region A1. In an exemplary embodiment, the size of the first region A1 may be smaller than the size of the second region A2. The first region A1 may have a size and shape capable of sensing a user's fingerprint using means known in the art. In an exemplary embodiment, for ease of description, the first region A1 is shown and described as having a rectangular shape, but is not limited thereto; the first region A1 may have other shapes such as a circle, ellipse, semicircle, polygon, etc. The first region A1 may be surrounded by the second region A2, but is not limited thereto. In an exemplary embodiment, the first region A1 may be located only on one side of the second region A2. The first region A1 may be located in the display region DA. The second region A2 may be located in the display region DA and the non-display region NDA. However, the positions of the first region A1 and the second region A2 are not limited thereto; the first region A1 and the second region A2 may be located in various positions. For example, a portion of the first region A1 may be located in the non-display region NDA. Alternatively, both the first region A1 and the second region A2 may be located only in the display region DA.

[0073] In an exemplary embodiment, in order to sense a fingerprint through the first region A1, the first region transmits more light than the second region. In this exemplary embodiment, because the light transmittance of the first region A1 is higher than that of the second region, the sensing power and sensitivity of the fingerprint sensor described below can be improved.

[0074] A window WD is disposed on the front surface of the display panel PNL. The window WD has a plate-like shape corresponding to the shape of the display panel PNL and covers at least a portion of the front surface of the display panel PNL. For example, when the display panel PNL has a rectangular shape, the window WD also has a rectangular shape corresponding to the display panel PNL. Furthermore, when the display panel PNL has a circular shape, the window WD also has a circular shape corresponding to the display panel PNL.

[0075] The window WD transmits the image emitted from the display panel PNL while simultaneously protecting it from external impacts, thus preventing damage or malfunction. The term "external impact" refers to external forces such as pressure or stress that can cause defects in the display panel PNL.

[0076] The entire or at least part of a window WD can be flexible. For example, a window WD can be flexible over the entire area, or it can be flexible in a specific area corresponding to a flexible area.

[0077] In detail, the display panel PNL includes a substrate SUB, a display unit PP disposed on the front surface of the substrate SUB, and a fingerprint sensor FPS disposed on the rear surface of the substrate SUB.

[0078] The substrate SUB can be made of insulating materials such as quartz, synthetic quartz, calcium fluoride, fluorine-doped quartz, soda-lime glass, alkali-free glass, and resin. Furthermore, the substrate SUB can be made of flexible materials, making it bendable or foldable, and can have a single-layer or multi-layer structure.

[0079] For example, the substrate SUB may comprise at least one material selected from polystyrene, polyvinyl alcohol, polymethyl methacrylate, polyethersulfone, polyacrylate, polyetherimide, polyethylene naphthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyphenylene sulfide, polyarylate, polyimide, polycarbonate, cellulose triacetate, and cellulose acetate propionate. However, the material forming the substrate SUB may vary, and the substrate SUB may be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) or other materials known in the art.

[0080] In an exemplary embodiment, the substrate SUB may be a polyimide substrate. The polyimide substrate may be made of a first polyimide layer, a barrier film layer, a second polyimide layer, etc. When the polyimide substrate is thin and flexible, it may be formed on a rigid carrier substrate to support the light-emitting structure.

[0081] In other words, in an exemplary embodiment, the substrate SUB may have a structure in which a first polyimide layer, a barrier film layer, and a second polyimide layer are stacked on a carrier substrate. For example, after an insulating layer is formed on the second polyimide layer, a thin-film transistor, a light-emitting device, or the like can be formed on the insulating layer.

[0082] After forming this luminescent structure, the carrier substrate can be removed. Because the polyimide substrate is thin and flexible, it is difficult to form the luminescent structure on it. With this in mind, after forming the luminescent structure using a rigid carrier substrate, the carrier substrate is removed, thus using the polyimide substrate as the substrate (SUB).

[0083] The substrate SUB has a front surface and a rear surface opposite to the front surface.

[0084] Since the substrate SUB is part of the display panel PNL, for ease of description, each region of the substrate SUB corresponding to the display area DA, the non-display area NDA, the first area A1, and the second area A2 represents the display area DA, the non-display area NDA, the first area A1, and the second area A2.

[0085] The display unit PP can be disposed on the front surface of the substrate SUB. In an exemplary embodiment, the display unit PP can be disposed in the display area DA, excluding the non-display area NDA. The display unit PP is disposed in each of the first area A1 and the second area A2.

[0086] As is known in the art, a display unit PP displays information input by the user or information provided to the user as an image. In other words, the display unit PP displays data input by the user, the results of operations performed by the user, and / or reactions based on the input data. The display unit PP will be described later.

[0087] The fingerprint sensor FPS is disposed on the rear surface of the substrate SUB and can be any number of known elements for sensing a user's fingerprint, as discussed below. The fingerprint sensor FPS is disposed only in a first region A1 of the rear surface of the substrate SUB and not in a second region A2. The fingerprint sensor FPS can be connected to the sensor control unit SC via a separate wire, flexible printed circuit substrate, carrier package, connector, chip-on-film, or other means known in the art. The fingerprint sensor FPS can be a light sensor or an ultrasonic sensor. According to an exemplary embodiment, the fingerprint sensor can be a light sensor, and the light sensor can identify fingerprints by distinguishing the wavelength of reflected light, which varies according to the ridges or valleys of the fingerprint in contact with the display panel PNL of the display device DP. The fingerprint sensor FPS can identify fingerprints not only when the user's finger is in contact with the fingerprint sensor FPS, but also when the finger moves while in contact with the fingerprint sensor FPS. However, the fingerprint sensor FPS according to the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto and can include various types. For example, the fingerprint sensor FPS can be capacitive, thermal, non-contact, or other types of fingerprint sensors known in the art.

[0088] Reference Figure 2 The display device DP according to the exemplary embodiment may further include a sensor control unit SC and a display driving unit PC.

[0089] The sensor control unit (SC) can control the operation of the fingerprint sensor (FPS) and can sense changes in light within the fingerprint sensor (FPS) to detect the user's fingerprint.

[0090] The display driver unit (PC) provides image drive signals to the display panel (PNL), thereby controlling the image display operation of the PNL. For this purpose, the PC can generate the image drive signals using image data and control signals provided externally. For example, the PC can be provided with image data and control signals from a host computer (not shown), and the control signals may include vertical synchronization signals, horizontal synchronization signals, and master clock signals, etc. Furthermore, the image drive signals may include scan signals and data signals generated using image data.

[0091] The sensor control unit (SC) and the display driver unit (PC) can be integrated into a single configuration. For example, the sensor control unit (SC) and the display driver unit (PC) can be housed in a single integrated circuit (IC).

[0092] Figure 3 This is a plan view illustrating an exemplary display panel constructed according to the principles of the invention. Specifically, Figure 3 The display unit PP of the display panel PNL is shown (reference). Figure 1B ).

[0093] Reference Figure 3 The display unit PP includes a first region A1 for sensing fingerprints and a second region A2 adjacent to the first region A1. A first pixel PX1 is disposed in the first region A1, and a second pixel PX2 is disposed in the second region A2.

[0094] In an exemplary embodiment, the size of the first pixel PX1 in the first region A1 can be substantially the same as the size of the second pixel PX2 in the second region A2. Therefore, the number of first pixels PX1 per unit area in the first region A1 can be substantially the same as the number of second pixels PX2 per unit area in the second region A2. Thus, the resolution of the region where the fingerprint sensor is located (i.e., the first region A1) can be substantially the same as the resolution of the region where the fingerprint sensor is not located (i.e., the second region A2).

[0095] Figure 4A It is shown Figure 3 The first pixel from Figure 3 The position shown is rotated 90 degrees in the plan view. Figure 4B It is along Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the first pixel intercepted by line II-II'.

[0096] First, refer to Figure 3In the display device DP according to an exemplary embodiment, the display unit PP includes a plurality of pixels disposed in the display area DA. The plurality of pixels can be arranged in a matrix form having rows and columns. However, the pixels can be arranged in a form different from the matrix form. In the exemplary embodiment, for ease of description, pixels arranged in regular rows and columns are shown as an example.

[0097] A pixel according to an exemplary embodiment includes at least one first pixel PX1 disposed in a first region A1 and at least one second pixel PX2 disposed in a second region A2. Each of the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2 may be a plurality of (or more). For ease of description, the number of pixels according to the exemplary embodiment is set such that a greater number of first pixels PX1 may be disposed in the first region A1 than shown, and a greater number of second pixels PX2 may be disposed in the second region A2 than shown.

[0098] Next, refer to Figure 4A and Figure 4B A first pixel PX1 is disposed in a first region A1. Each of the first pixels PX1 includes at least one first sub-pixel. In an exemplary embodiment, the first pixel PX1 may include three first sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3. However, the number of sub-pixels of the first pixel PX1 is not limited thereto. The three first sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3 may be a blue sub-pixel, a green sub-pixel, and a red sub-pixel that emit blue light, green light, and red light, respectively. However, the color of each first sub-pixel is not limited thereto; the color of each first sub-pixel may be a color different from the colors described above, such as magenta, yellow, cyan, or white.

[0099] The first region A1 has a light-emitting region EA that emits light and a light-transmitting region TA that transmits light but does not emit light. The light-emitting region EA and the light-transmitting region TA can be set in each first pixel PX1. For ease of explanation, in... Figure 4A and Figure 4B In the diagram, a transmissive region TA and three luminescent regions EA are shown and described as being set in each first pixel PX1.

[0100] In an exemplary embodiment, three luminescent regions EA are arranged sequentially in one direction (e.g., the horizontal direction in the figures). A transmissive region TA extends in one direction (e.g., the horizontal direction in the figures). The luminescent regions EA and transmissive regions TA can have various shapes and numbers. For example, the luminescent regions EA and transmissive regions TA can be arranged in other directions (e.g., the vertical direction) different from the direction shown. In an exemplary embodiment, transmissive regions TA are also arranged in a plurality (e.g., three), and multiple transmissive regions TA can also be arranged in one direction. Alternatively, transmissive regions TA and luminescent regions EA can be arranged alternately in one direction. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the transmissive regions TA and luminescent regions EA is shown as a quadrilateral, but is not limited thereto, and can have various shapes, such as polygons, circles, etc.

[0101] The first sub-pixel can be set in each emitting region EA. In other words, the first sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3 can be set in the emitting region EA, excluding the transmissive region TA.

[0102] The transmissive region TA can have an opening OPN, allowing light to pass through it. Since the first sub-pixel is not located within the transmissive region TA, it does not emit light. The transmissive region TA forms a path for light or ultrasonic waves to move towards the fingerprint sensor FPS, unaffected by light emitted from the pixels.

[0103] Reference Figure 4B The first pixel PX1 will be described below according to the stacking order.

[0104] The first sub-pixel is set in the light-emitting area EA of the first pixel PX1.

[0105] According to an exemplary embodiment, a first sub-pixel may include an insulating layer, a pixel defining layer (PDL), a thin-film transistor (TFT), a light-emitting element, and a capping layer (CV) disposed on a substrate (SUB). Here, the thin-film transistor (TFT) may include an active pattern (ACT), a gate electrode (GE), a source electrode (SE), and a drain electrode (DE). The insulating layer may include a buffer layer (BF), a gate insulating layer (GI), an interlayer insulating layer (IL), and a passivation layer (PSV). The light-emitting element may include a first electrode (EL1), a second electrode (EL2), and an organic layer disposed between the first electrode (EL1) and the second electrode (EL2).

[0106] The buffer layer BF is set on the base SUB.

[0107] The buffer layer (BF) prevents the diffusion of metal atoms or impurities from the substrate (SUB) and allows control of the heat transfer rate during the crystallization process used to form the active pattern (ACT), thereby obtaining a substantially uniform active pattern ACT. Furthermore, in cases of surface inhomogeneity in the substrate (SUB), the buffer layer (BF) can improve the surface flatness of the substrate (SUB). Depending on the type of substrate (SUB), two or more buffer layers (BF) may be provided, or no buffer layer (BF) may be provided on the substrate (SUB).

[0108] The active pattern ACT is disposed on the buffer layer BF. The active pattern ACT can include oxide semiconductors, inorganic semiconductors (i.e., amorphous silicon, polycrystalline silicon), or organic semiconductors, etc.

[0109] The gate insulating layer GI can be disposed on the active pattern ACT. The gate insulating layer GI covers the active pattern ACT. The gate insulating layer GI can be disposed entirely on the substrate SUB. The gate insulating layer GI can be made of various insulating materials known in the art, such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, metal oxide, etc.

[0110] The gate electrode GE can be disposed on the portion of the gate insulating layer GI that corresponds to the active pattern ACT disposed below the gate insulating layer GI. The gate electrode GE can be made of metal, alloy, metal nitride, conductive metal oxide, transparent conductive material, etc.

[0111] An interlayer insulating layer IL can be disposed on the gate electrode GE. The interlayer insulating layer IL can cover the gate electrode GE in the light-emitting region EA and can extend in one direction on the substrate SUB. That is, the interlayer insulating layer IL can be completely disposed on the substrate SUB. The interlayer insulating layer IL can include silicon compounds, metal oxides, etc.

[0112] The source electrode SE and drain electrode DE can be disposed on the interlayer insulating layer IL. The source electrode SE and drain electrode DE can pass through a portion of both the gate insulating layer GI and the interlayer insulating layer IL, thereby connecting to one side and the other side of the active pattern ACT, respectively. Each of the source electrode SE and drain electrode DE can include a metal, alloy, metal nitride, conductive metal oxide, transparent conductive material, etc.

[0113] The passivation layer PSV can be disposed on the source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE. The passivation layer PSV can cover the source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE in the light-emitting region EA, and can extend in one direction on the substrate SUB. That is, the passivation layer PSV can be completely disposed on the substrate SUB. The passivation layer PSV can include silicon compounds, metal oxides, etc.

[0114] The first electrode EL1 can be disposed on the passivation layer PSV. The first electrode EL1 can penetrate a portion of the passivation layer PSV, thereby connecting to the drain electrode DE. The first electrode EL1 can include metal, alloy, metal nitride, conductive metal oxide, transparent conductive material, etc.

[0115] The pixel-defining layer (PDL) can be disposed on the passivation layer (PSV) while exposing a portion of the first electrode (EL1). The PDL can be made of organic or inorganic materials. In this case, an organic layer can be disposed on at least a portion of the first electrode (EL1) exposed by the PDL.

[0116] The organic layer may include a hole injection layer (HIL), a hole transport layer (HTL), an emitter layer (EML), an electron transport layer (ETL), and an electron injection layer (EIL). As in this exemplary embodiment, all of the hole injection layer (HIL), hole transport layer (HTL), electron transport layer (ETL), and electron injection layer (EIL) may be formed; however, in other embodiments, one or two of these layers may be omitted. The emitter layer may emit light of various colors depending on the type of sub-pixel. The emitter layer may emit light of at least one wavelength selected from, for example, green, blue, and red light, but the embodiments are not limited thereto. The emitter layer may emit light of other colors.

[0117] The second electrode EL2 can be disposed on the pixel defining layer (PDL) and the organic layer. The second electrode EL2 can cover both the pixel defining layer (PDL) and the organic layer, and can extend in one direction on the substrate (SUB). The second electrode EL2 can be made of metal, alloy, metal nitride, conductive metal oxide, transparent conductive material, or other materials known in the art. These materials can be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0118] The capping layer CV is disposed on the second electrode EL2.

[0119] The cover layer CV can be made of a single layer or multiple layers. In an exemplary embodiment, the cover layer CV can be made of three layers. The cover layer CV can be made of organic and / or inorganic materials. The outermost cover layer CV can be made of inorganic materials. In an exemplary embodiment, the cover layer CV can be made of inorganic / organic / inorganic materials, but is not limited thereto. Organic materials can include organic insulating materials, such as polyacrylate compounds, polyimide compounds, fluorocarbon compounds such as Teflon, benzocyclobutene compounds, etc., and inorganic materials can include polysiloxanes, silicon nitride, silicon oxide, silicon oxynitride, etc.

[0120] Although not shown, an encapsulation layer can also be provided on the cover layer CV. The encapsulation layer can be a plate-like glass or a polymer film. The encapsulation layer can protect the components between the substrate SUB and the encapsulation layer from external influences.

[0121] An aperture OPN is disposed in the transmissive region TA of the first pixel PX1. An aperture OPN can be formed by removing at least a portion of the insulating layer and the light-emitting elements. For example, an aperture OPN can be formed using an interlayer insulating layer IL, a passivation layer PSV, a pixel defining layer PDL, a second electrode EL2, etc. However, the elements removed from the aperture OPN are not limited to these; for example, the gate insulating layer GI or the buffer layer BF can be removed.

[0122] By forming an opening OPN in the transmissive region TA of the first pixel PX1 in the first region A1, light (e.g., ambient light) passing through the opening OPN from the top to the bottom can directly reach the fingerprint sensor FPS in the first region A1, or light can pass through the opening OPN from the fingerprint sensor FPS to the top (assuming the fingerprint sensor FPS can emit light).

[0123] In an exemplary embodiment, the transmission region TA may have a shape different from the shape described above.

[0124] Figure 4C It is along Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of the first pixel PX1 intercepted by line II-II' in a second embodiment. In the following description, to avoid repetition, only the differences from the first exemplary embodiment described above will be primarily described. Furthermore, elements whose functions are substantially the same as those previously described will be indicated by the same reference numerals.

[0125] Reference Figure 4A and Figure 4C The first sub-pixel is set in the light-emitting area EA of the first pixel PX1.

[0126] According to an exemplary embodiment, a first sub-pixel may include an insulating layer, a pixel defining layer (PDL), a thin-film transistor (TFT), a light-emitting element, and a capping layer (CV) disposed on a substrate (SUB). Here, the thin-film transistor (TFT) may include an active pattern (ACT), a gate electrode (GE), a source electrode (SE), and a drain electrode (DE). The insulating layer may include a buffer layer (BF), a gate insulating layer (GI), an interlayer insulating layer (IL), and a passivation layer (PSV). The light-emitting element may include a first electrode (EL1), a second electrode (EL2), and an organic layer disposed between the first electrode (EL1) and the second electrode (EL2).

[0127] The insulating layer and the first electrode EL1 can be disposed on the substrate SUB. More specifically, the buffer layer BF, the gate insulating layer GI, the interlayer insulating layer IL, the passivation layer PSV, and the first electrode EL1 can be stacked sequentially.

[0128] Each of the buffer layer BF, gate insulating layer GI, interlayer insulating layer IL, passivation layer PSV, and first electrode EL1 may have a shape extending from the light-emitting region EA.

[0129] In the pixel-defining layer PDL, an opening is formed to expose the first electrode EL1 corresponding to the light-emitting region EA. Furthermore, in the pixel-defining layer PDL, an opening is formed to expose the first electrode EL1 corresponding to the transmission region TA. The portions of the organic layer, excluding the emitting layer EML, can be sequentially disposed on the first electrode EL1 exposed in the transmission region TA. That is, at least one layer selected from the hole injection layer HIL, the hole transport layer HTL, the electron transport layer ETL, and the electron injection layer EIL can be disposed on the first electrode EL1 in the transmission region TA.

[0130] Since the organic layer in the transmission region TA does not include the light-emitting layer EML, the organic layer is completely transparent. Therefore, light can pass through the organic layer in the transmission region TA.

[0131] Elements in each region of the emitting region EA and the transmitting region TA can be formed using the same process or in the same process. For example, in the case of forming an organic layer, in addition to the emitting layer EML, the hole injection layer HIL, the hole transport layer HTL, the electron transport layer ETL, and the electron injection layer EIL can be formed simultaneously in the emitting region EA and the transmitting region TA, while the emitting layer EML can be formed only in the emitting region EA.

[0132] Figure 5A It is shown Figure 3 The second pixel PX2 from Figure 3 The position shown is rotated 90 degrees in the plan view. Figure 5B It is along Figure 5A The sectional view taken from line II-II'.

[0133] Reference Figure 5A and Figure 5B In the second pixel PX2, a light-emitting area EA is set, but a transmission area TA is not set. The light-emitting area EA can be set in each second pixel PX2. Figure 5A In this configuration, three luminous regions EA can be set within a single pixel.

[0134] In an exemplary embodiment, the three light-emitting regions EA can be arranged sequentially in one direction (e.g., the horizontal direction in the figures). However, the light-emitting regions EA can be arranged in various shapes and numbers. For example, the light-emitting regions EA can be arranged in other directions (e.g., the vertical direction) different from the one direction shown. In an exemplary embodiment, the light-emitting regions EA are shown as quadrilaterals, but are not limited to this, and can have various shapes such as polygons, circles, etc.

[0135] Refer again Figure 5AThree second sub-pixels, SP1', SP2', and SP3', can be set within the luminous region EA. Second sub-pixels can be set within each luminous region EA.

[0136] The second sub-pixel according to an exemplary embodiment may include a buffer layer BF, a gate insulating layer GI, an interlayer insulating layer IL, a passivation layer PSV, a pixel defining layer PDL, a thin-film transistor TFT, a light-emitting element, and a capping layer CV disposed on a substrate SUB. Here, the thin-film transistor TFT may include an active pattern ACT, a gate electrode GE, a source electrode SE, and a drain electrode DE. The light-emitting element may include a first electrode EL1, a second electrode EL2, and an organic layer disposed between the first electrode EL1 and the second electrode EL2. The organic layer may include a hole injection layer HIL, a hole transport layer HTL, an emitter layer EML, an electron transport layer ETL, and an electron injection layer EIL.

[0137] In addition to the pixel-defining layer (PDL) and the light-emitting element, the second sub-pixel has the same... Figure 4C The structure of the first sub-pixel shown is essentially the same. However, it is similar to... Figure 4C Unlike the first sub-pixel shown, the second sub-pixel does not have the same characteristics as the transmission region (TA); see reference. Figure 4C The corresponding part, and has a light-emitting area (EA; reference) Figure 4C The shape is an extension. The size of the second sub-pixel can be larger than the size of the first sub-pixel. Although the size of the first pixel PX1 is basically the same as the size of the second pixel PX2, the size of the light-emitting area EA of the first pixel PX1 is smaller than the size of the light-emitting area EA of the second pixel PX2 because the transmissive region TA is set in the first pixel PX1. Therefore, the size of the first sub-pixel set in the light-emitting area EA of the first pixel PX1 is smaller than the size of the second sub-pixel set in the light-emitting area EA of the second pixel PX2.

[0138] In the second sub-pixel, the pixel definition layer (PDL) is set along the edge of the light-emitting region (EA), and the organic layer is set in the pixel definition layer (PDL).

[0139] In the display device DP with the above structure, the transmittance of light passing through the first region A1 where the fingerprint sensor FPS is located is greater than the transmittance of light passing through the second region A2 where the fingerprint sensor FPS is not located. Therefore, the fingerprint sensor FPS can easily sense the user's fingerprint.

[0140] In the exemplary embodiments, a case has been described where the difference in transmittance is achieved by making the size of the sub-pixels in the first region A1 smaller than the size of the sub-pixels in the second region A2; however, embodiments of the invention are not limited thereto. In addition to or instead of the methods described above, the difference in transmittance can be achieved by other methods known in the art, such as improving the conductor structure in the first region A1 and the second region A2. For example, the difference in transmittance between the first region A1 and the second region A2 can be achieved by forming the conductor width relatively narrow in the first region A1 and relatively wide in the second region A2.

[0141] Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment, it is described that the transmittance of the first region A1 is improved by removing a portion of the insulating layer, but the invention is not limited thereto, and the difference in transmittance can be achieved by other means known in the art (e.g., by controlling the thickness of each of the buffer layer BF, gate insulating layer GI, interlayer insulating layer IL, passivation layer PSV and / or capping layer CV in the first region A1 and the second region A2).

[0142] When a user touches the first region A1, the display device DP with the above structure can identify the user's fingerprint using a fingerprint sensor FPS disposed on the rear surface of the substrate SUB. For example, if the fingerprint sensor FPS is a light sensor, the user's fingerprint can be sensed by sensing the light since light passes through the transmission region TA of the first region A1. Furthermore, if the fingerprint sensor FPS is an ultrasonic sensor, the user's fingerprint can be sensed by sensing the ultrasonic wave since ultrasonic waves pass through the transmission region TA of the first region A1.

[0143] In addition to the elements described above, the display device DP according to the exemplary embodiment may also include other sensor elements to sense the user's touch position.

[0144] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary display device DP taken along the line corresponding to line I-I' in Figure 1. Figure 7 This is a block diagram graphically illustrating some components of an exemplary display device DP according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0145] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 According to an exemplary embodiment, the display panel PNL of the display device DP includes a substrate SUB, a display unit PP disposed on the substrate SUB, a first sensor S1 disposed on the display unit PP, and a fingerprint sensor FPS disposed on the rear surface of the substrate SUB.

[0146] Since the substrate SUB, display unit PP, and fingerprint sensor FPS can be substantially the same as those described in the exemplary embodiments above, their detailed descriptions are omitted, and only the differences from the exemplary embodiments above will be described.

[0147] The first sensor S1 is a sensor used to sense the touch position when a user touches it. The first sensor S1 can be various types of sensors known in the art, such as capacitive, resistive, etc.

[0148] In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor control unit SC can control the operation of the fingerprint sensor FPS and the first sensor S1. The sensor control unit SC can sense changes in light in the fingerprint sensor FPS to sense the user's fingerprint, and can sense the capacitance, etc., of the first sensor S1 to sense the touch position based on the user's touch. In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor control unit SC can drive the fingerprint sensor FPS and the first sensor S1 simultaneously, or drive these sensors sequentially.

[0149] In an exemplary embodiment, the first sensor S1 is described as being disposed on the display unit PP, but the invention is not limited thereto. The first sensor S1 may be disposed at a location other than the upper part of the display unit PP. For example, the first sensor may be disposed between the substrate SUB and the display unit PP, or it may be disposed inside the display unit PP.

[0150] like Figure 6 As shown, when the first sensor S1 is disposed inside the display panel PNL, the first sensor S1 can be integrated with the display panel PNL. Therefore, unwanted substrates or layers can be removed, thereby reducing the thickness of the display device DP and reducing manufacturing costs.

[0151] Figure 8A An exemplary first self-capacitance type sensor is shown that can be used in a display device of the invention. Figure 8B An exemplary first sensor of mutual capacitance type is shown that can be used in a display device for the invention.

[0152] Reference Figure 8A According to the exemplary embodiment, the first sensor S1 may be a self-capacitance type sensor.

[0153] According to an exemplary embodiment, the first sensor S1 may include a plurality of touch electrodes SS1, a plurality of wires TRL, and a plurality of pads TRP disposed at one end of the wires TRL.

[0154] In an exemplary embodiment, the touch electrode SS1 is shown and described as having a rectangular shape, but the invention is not limited thereto. The touch electrode SS1 can vary in shape. For example, each touch electrode SS1 has a circular shape. Furthermore, each touch electrode SS1 can extend in one direction to become entirely strip-shaped.

[0155] When the touch electrode SS1 extends in one direction, the extension direction can be changed to the long side direction of the base SUB, the short side direction of the base SUB, the tilt direction of the base SUB, etc.

[0156] The touch electrode SS1 may include a conductive material. For example, the conductive material may include metals, alloys thereof, conductive polymers, conductive metal oxides, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the metal may include copper, silver, gold, platinum, palladium, nickel, tin, aluminum, cobalt, rhodium, iridium, iron, ruthenium, osmium, manganese, molybdenum, tungsten, niobium, tantalum, titanium, bismuth, antimony, lead, etc. The conductive metal oxide may include indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc antimony oxide (AZO), indium tin zinc oxide (ITZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), tin oxide (SnO2), etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the touch electrode SS1 is formed of a single layer or multiple layers. The conductive polymer may include polythiophene compounds (especially PEDOT / PSS compounds of polythiophene compounds), polypyrrole compounds, polyaniline compounds, polyacetylene compounds, polyphenylene compounds, mixtures thereof, etc. Because conductive polymers are not only easy to manufacture but also have higher flexibility than conductive metal oxides (e.g., ITO), the possibility of cracking during bending can be reduced.

[0157] The touch electrode SS1 and the wire TRL can be located on a separate substrate SUB, or on various components included in the display device DP. For example, the touch electrode SS1 and the wire TRL can be formed on the display unit PP in the display device DP.

[0158] When the touch electrode SS1 and the lead wire TRL are located on a separate substrate SUB, the substrate SUB can be formed of an insulating material such as glass or resin. Furthermore, the substrate SUB can be formed of a flexible material, making it bendable or foldable, and can have a single-layer or multi-layer structure. For example, the substrate SUB can include at least one material selected from polystyrene, polyvinyl alcohol, polymethyl methacrylate, polyethersulfone, polyacrylate, polyetherimide, polyethylene naphthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyphenylene sulfide, polyarylate, polyimide, polycarbonate, cellulose triacetate, and cellulose acetate propionate. However, the material forming the substrate SUB can vary, and the substrate SUB can be formed of materials such as glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP).

[0159] A lead wire (TRL) can be positioned between the touch electrode SS1 and the pad TRP to connect the touch electrode SS1 and the pad TRP to each other. Furthermore, the lead wire (TRL) can be connected to the sensor control unit SC via the pad TRP. For example, the pad TRP can be connected to the sensor control unit SC via a separate wire, flexible printed circuit substrate, carrier package, connector, chip-on-film, etc.

[0160] Since the self-capacitance of the touch electrode SS1 associated with the touch changes when a touch is input into the first sensor S1, the sensor control unit SC can detect the touch position by using the signal output from the touch electrode SS1.

[0161] Reference Figure 8B According to an exemplary embodiment, the first sensor S1 may be a mutual capacitance type sensor.

[0162] In addition, the first sensor S1 may include a first touch electrode SSa, a second touch electrode SSb, a wire TRL, and a pad TRP disposed at one end of the wire TRL.

[0163] The first touch electrode SSa can be formed longitudinally in one direction, and multiple electrodes can be arranged in another direction intersecting the first direction. The second touch electrode SSb is configured to be separated from the first touch electrode SSa, thus functioning together with the first touch electrode SSa as a mutual capacitance type sensor. For this purpose, the second touch electrode SSb can be configured to intersect with the first touch electrode SSa. For example, the second touch electrode SSb can be formed longitudinally in another direction, and multiple electrodes can be arranged in one direction.

[0164] In an exemplary embodiment, the first touch electrode SSa and the second touch electrode SSb are shown and described as having a rhomboid shape, but their shapes are not limited thereto and can be varied. For example, each of the first touch electrode SSa and the second touch electrode SSb may have a circular shape. Furthermore, each first touch electrode SSa may have an elongated strip shape extending in one direction, and each second touch electrode SSb may have an elongated strip shape extending in another direction intersecting with the first touch electrode SSa.

[0165] Because the first touch electrode SSa and the second touch electrode SSb are arranged as described above, a mutual capacitance is formed between the first touch electrode SSa and the second touch electrode SSb, and the mutual capacitance associated with the touch changes when a touch is input to the first sensor S1. To prevent contact between the first touch electrode SSa and the second touch electrode SSb, an insulating layer is provided between the first touch electrode SSa and the second touch electrode SSb. The insulating layer may be formed entirely between the first touch electrode SSa and the second touch electrode SSb, or it may be formed only at each intersection area between the first touch electrode SSa and the second touch electrode SSb.

[0166] The first touch electrode SSa and the second touch electrode SSb can be made of a transparent conductive material or other conductive materials such as opaque metals. For example, the first touch electrode SSa and the second touch electrode SSb can be formed of the same material as the touch electrodes described above.

[0167] exist Figure 8B In the diagram, the first touch electrode SSa and the second touch electrode SSb are shown and described as having rectangular shapes, but the shapes of the first touch electrode SSa and the second touch electrode SSb can be varied. Furthermore, the first touch electrode SSa and the second touch electrode SSb can have a mesh structure to increase flexibility.

[0168] A lead wire (TRL) can be positioned between the touch electrode SS1 and the pad TRP to connect the touch electrode SS1 and the pad TRP to each other. Furthermore, the lead wire (TRL) can be connected to the sensor control unit SC via the pad TRP. For example, the pad TRP can be connected to the sensor control unit SC via a separate wire, flexible printed circuit substrate, carrier package, connector, chip-on-film, etc.

[0169] The first touch electrode SSa can receive a drive signal from the sensor control unit SC, and the second touch electrode SSb can output a sensing signal, which applies a capacitance change to the sensor control unit SC. Therefore, the sensor control unit SC can detect the touch position by using the sensing signal output from the second touch electrode SSb.

[0170] In addition to the elements described above, the display device DP according to the exemplary embodiment may also include other sensors for sensing the user's touch pressure.

[0171] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary display device DP taken along the line corresponding to line I-I' in Figure 1. Figure 10 This is a block diagram graphically illustrating some components of an exemplary display device DP according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0172] Reference Figure 9and Figure 10 According to an exemplary embodiment, the display panel PNL of the display device DP includes a substrate SUB, a display unit PP disposed on the front surface of the substrate SUB, a first sensor S1 disposed on the display unit PP, a buffer member BFM disposed on the first sensor S1, a second sensor S2 disposed on the buffer member BFM, and a fingerprint sensor FPS disposed on the rear surface of the substrate SUB.

[0173] Since the substrate SUB, display unit PP, fingerprint sensor FPS, and first sensor S1 can be substantially the same as those in the exemplary embodiments described above, their detailed descriptions are omitted, and only the differences from the exemplary embodiments described above will be mainly described.

[0174] The second sensor S2 is a sensor used to sense touch pressure when a user touches it. The second sensor S2 can be various types of sensors, such as a capacitive sensor that senses the capacitance between the first sensor S1 and the second sensor S2.

[0175] In an exemplary embodiment, the types of the first sensor S1 and the second sensor S2 may differ from the type of the fingerprint sensor. For example, while the fingerprint sensor may be a sensor using light or ultrasound, the first sensor S1 and the second sensor S2 may be sensors that sense changes in capacitance. Furthermore, the sensing type of the first sensor S1 may be the same as or different from the sensing type of the second sensor S2. For example, the first sensor S1 may be a mutual capacitance type sensor, and the second sensor S2 may be a mutual force sensor resistor (FSR) sensor. In an exemplary embodiment, the case where the second sensor S2 is a capacitive type sensor that senses the capacitance between the first sensor S1 and the second sensor S2 will be described as an example.

[0176] The buffer member BFM can be disposed between the first sensor S1 and the second sensor S2. Therefore, the buffer member BFM is in contact with the first sensor S1 and the second sensor S2.

[0177] A buffer element (BFM) can be used to cushion external impacts and can have an elastic force for this purpose. For example, a buffer element (BFM) can change with external pressure, and when the external pressure is removed, the buffer element (BFM) can have an elastic force that allows it to return to its original state.

[0178] In addition, the buffer member BFM can be formed of insulating material to prevent electrical short circuit between the first sensor S1 and the second sensor S2.

[0179] The cushioning component BFM can be formed from a porous polymer to have elasticity. For example, the cushioning component BFM can have a foam-like structure like a sponge. For example, the cushioning component BFM can include, but is not limited to, thermoplastic elastomers, polystyrene, polyolefins, polyurethane thermoplastic elastomers, polyamides, synthetic rubbers, polydimethylsiloxane, polybutadiene, polyisobutylene, poly(styrene-butadiene-styrene), polyurethane, polychloroprene, polyethylene, silicone resins, and combinations thereof.

[0180] According to an exemplary embodiment, the buffer member BFM can be a single or multiple separate shapes. That is, the buffer member BFM can be separate from each other and can have various shapes.

[0181] In the exemplary embodiments, the formation of a buffer member BFM has been described, but the embodiments of the invention are not limited thereto. For example, an air layer may be formed instead of a buffer member BFM.

[0182] According to an exemplary embodiment, the sensor control unit SC can control the operation of the fingerprint sensor FPS, the first sensor S1, and the second sensor S2. The sensor control unit SC can sense changes in light from the fingerprint sensor FPS to sense the user's fingerprint, and can sense the capacitance of the first sensor S1, etc., to sense the touch position based on the user's touch. Furthermore, the sensor control unit SC can sense the capacitance of the second sensor S2, etc., to sense touch pressure based on the user's touch.

[0183] According to an exemplary embodiment, the sensor control unit SC can simultaneously or sequentially drive the operation of the fingerprint sensor FPS, the first sensor S1, and the second sensor S2.

[0184] When the second sensor S2 is pressed by the user's touch, the thickness of the buffer member BFM between the first sensor S1 and the second sensor S2 can change. Therefore, the capacitance between the first sensor S1 and the second sensor S2 can change. Thus, the intensity of the pressure can be detected by using the change in capacitance of the second sensor S2.

[0185] The pressure applied to the second sensor S2 can be generated primarily by the user's touch, but is not limited to this, and can be generated by various other methods known in the art.

[0186] The sensor control unit SC can sense the capacitance change between the first sensor S1 and the second sensor S2, thereby detecting the pressure applied to the second sensor S2.

[0187] like Figure 9As shown, when the first sensor S1 and the second sensor S2 are disposed inside the display panel PNL, the first sensor S1 and the second sensor S2 can be integrated with the display panel PNL. Therefore, unwanted substrates or layers can be removed, thereby reducing the thickness of the display device DP and reducing manufacturing costs.

[0188] Figures 11A to 11C This is a plan view showing the second sensor S2 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0189] Reference Figure 11A According to an exemplary embodiment, the second sensor S2 may include a touch electrode SS, a wire TRL, and a pad TRP disposed at one end of the wire TRL.

[0190] The touch electrode SS can cover all or most of the first region A1 and the second region A2, and is formed as an inseparable integral shape, such as a planar shape.

[0191] In an exemplary embodiment, the identification pattern may be disposed in the first region A1 or in a portion of the second region A2 adjacent to the first region A1, such that the location of the fingerprint sensing area (i.e., the first region A1) is identified by the user. The identification pattern functions effectively as long as the user can identify the first region A1, and the shape or location of the identification pattern is not limited thereto. For example, the identification pattern may be disposed along the edge of the first region A1, and the identification pattern may be formed as a black matrix. In an exemplary embodiment, when the identification pattern is formed as a black matrix, the identification pattern may also be formed on the rear surface of the window as another black matrix that blocks light in other areas.

[0192] The touch electrode SS may include a conductive material. For example, the conductive material may include metals, alloys thereof, conductive polymers, conductive metal oxides, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the metal may include copper, silver, gold, platinum, palladium, nickel, tin, aluminum, cobalt, rhodium, iridium, iron, ruthenium, osmium, manganese, molybdenum, tungsten, niobium, tantalum, titanium, bismuth, antimony, lead, etc. The conductive metal oxide may include indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc antimony oxide (AZO), indium tin zinc oxide (ITZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), tin oxide (SnO2), etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the touch electrode SS1 is made of a single layer or multiple layers.

[0193] In exemplary embodiments, the conductive polymer may include polythiophene compounds (particularly PEDOT / PSS compounds of polythiophene compounds), polypyrrole compounds, polyaniline compounds, polyacetylene compounds, polyphenylene compounds, mixtures thereof, etc. The conductive polymer can be readily manufactured using wet coating, and specifically can be manufactured using a roll-to-roll method.

[0194] Because conductive polymers have higher flexibility than conductive metal oxides (e.g., ITO), the likelihood of cracking when bent can be reduced.

[0195] Specifically, the PEDOT / PSS compound can have relatively low resistance and relatively high transmittance. Furthermore, since the conductive polymer has a refractive index similar to that of the substrate SUB or adhesive, the relative light loss can be small. In an exemplary embodiment, because the sheet resistance and transmittance of the layer made of PEDOT / PSS can be substantially the same as those of the conductive layer made of indium tin oxide, respectively, the layer can have a sheet resistance of about 100 W / sq to about 300 W / sq, preferably 150 W / sq, and a transmittance greater than about 80%, preferably greater than about 88%. Furthermore, PEDOT / PSS can have a haze of 0.4% and a light loss rate of about 4.1%.

[0196] A lead wire (TRL) can be positioned between the touch electrode (SS) and the pad (TRP) to connect the touch electrode (SS) and the pad (TRP) to each other. Furthermore, the lead wire (TRL) can be connected to the sensor control unit (SC) via the pad (TRP). For example, the pad (TRP) can be connected to the sensor control unit (SC) via a separate wire, flexible printed circuit substrate, tape package, connector, chip-on-film, etc.

[0197] In an exemplary embodiment, the touch electrode SS of the second sensor S2 may have various shapes.

[0198] Reference Figure 11B According to an exemplary embodiment, the second sensor S2 can be formed from a plurality of touch electrodes SS2 in a manner similar to that of a self-capacitance type touch sensor. That is, the second sensor S2 may include a plurality of touch electrodes SS2, a plurality of wires TRL, and a plurality of pads TRP disposed at one end of the wires TRL.

[0199] In an exemplary embodiment, the second sensor S2 may include a plurality of touch electrodes SS2 to sense pressure from multi-touch and single-touch.

[0200] The second sensor S2 may have a structure capable of sensing a single capacitance change or multiple capacitance changes using the first sensor S1, but the construction of the second sensor S2 is not limited to this. For example, the second sensor S2 may have a shape similar to that of a mutual capacitance type touch sensor.

[0201] Reference Figure 11C According to an exemplary embodiment, the second sensor S2 can be connected with... Figure 11ASimilar to the second sensor S2, the touch electrode SS3 can be divided into a portion of the first region A1 and another portion of the second region A2. The recognition pattern can be set in a portion of the first region A1 or the second region A2, for example, in the first region A1 or in a portion of the second region A2 adjacent to the first region A1, so that the location of the fingerprint sensing area (i.e., the first region A1) can be recognized by the user. The recognition pattern effectively functions as long as the user can recognize the first region A1, and the shape or location of the recognition pattern is not limited thereto. For example, the recognition pattern can be set along the edge of the first region A1, and the recognition pattern can be formed as a black matrix.

[0202] The touch electrode SS3 of the first region A1 and the separate second region A2 can be electrically connected to each other via separate wires, etc. Alternatively, each touch electrode SS3 of the first region A1 and the separate second region A2 can be connected to the sensor control unit SC via separate wires, etc.

[0203] According to an exemplary embodiment, the display device DP can sense fingerprints, touch locations, and / or touch pressure in various ways by using a fingerprint sensor FPS, a first sensor S1, and a second sensor S2.

[0204] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary display device DP taken along the line corresponding to line I-I' in Figure 1. Figure 13 It is shown Figure 12 A plan view of the first sensor S1 in the display device.

[0205] According to an exemplary embodiment, the display panel PNL of the display device DP includes a substrate SUB, a display unit PP disposed on the front surface of the substrate SUB, a first sensor S1 disposed on the display unit PP, a buffer member BFM disposed on the first sensor S1, a second sensor S2 disposed on the buffer member BFM, and a fingerprint sensor FPS disposed on the rear surface of the substrate SUB.

[0206] Since the substrate SUB, display unit PP, fingerprint sensor FPS, and second sensor S2 can be substantially the same as those described in the exemplary embodiments above, their detailed descriptions are omitted, and the differences from the exemplary embodiments above will be mainly described.

[0207] In the exemplary embodiment, for ease of description, the first sensor S1 may be described as a self-capacitance type sensor, but is not limited thereto; the first sensor S1 may be various types of sensors. For example, the first sensor S1 may be a mutual capacitance type sensor.

[0208] In an exemplary embodiment, the first sensor S1 may be disposed substantially only in the second region A2 of the first region A1 and the second region A2. In the first sensor S1, the first region A1 has a hole HL, and the first sensor S1 is not disposed within the hole HL. That is, the touch electrode SS1 of the first sensor S1 is not formed within the hole HL of the first region A1.

[0209] According to an exemplary embodiment, in the first region A1, the fingerprint sensor FPS can be used as a touch position sensor, and the second sensor S2, together with a conductor disposed in the fingerprint sensor FPS, defines a capacitor to sense pressure. In other words, a user's fingerprint can be identified using the fingerprint sensor FPS disposed in the first region A1, and touch position and touch pressure can be identified by using different sensors in the first region A1 and the second region A2. That is, in the first region A1, touch position can be sensed using the fingerprint sensor FPS, and touch pressure can be sensed using the fingerprint sensor FPS and the second sensor S2. In the second region A2, touch position can be sensed using the first sensor S1, and touch pressure can be sensed using both the first sensor S1 and the second sensor S2.

[0210] In the display device DP according to the exemplary embodiments described above, at least a portion of the display device DP may be flexible or non-flexible. Elements included in the display device DP (e.g., display panel PNL or window WD) may also be flexible, allowing the display device DP to be flexible. For example, the display device DP may include flexible regions and / or rigid regions that are not flexible, depending on the degree of flexibility. When the display device DP is flexible, it can be folded. If the dashed line indicating a folded display device DP is referred to as a fold line, the fold line may be provided in the flexible region.

[0211] Here, the term "foldable" does not necessarily mean a general folded state of an object, nor is it limited to a fixed form; rather, it can include a state in which one form can be changed into another. For example, "foldable" can mean folding, bending, twisting, or rolling along at least one predetermined line (i.e., a fold line). Therefore, the display device DP can be flexible even if it may not be folded or may actually be folded in a flexible area.

[0212] Here, in the context of flexible and rigid regions, the terms "having flexibility" or "not having flexibility," and "flexible" or "rigid," are expressions that relatively describe the properties of the display device DP. More specifically, the expressions "not having flexibility" and "rigid" refer not only to those cases where the material has no flexibility at all and is therefore rigid, but also to those cases where the material has less flexibility than the flexible region. Therefore, a rigid region may have relatively less flexibility compared to a flexible region, or it may have no flexibility at all. Even when the flexible region is folded, the rigid region may not be folded.

[0213] In exemplary embodiments, the fold lines, flexible regions, or rigid regions can be varied. For example, the display device DP may include both flexible and rigid regions, but may include only flexible regions other than rigid regions. Furthermore, one or more fold lines may be provided. If desired, fold lines can be provided at various locations along the display, in which case the display device DP can be completely rolled up.

[0214] Figure 14 This is a perspective view showing a display device DP constructed according to the inventive principle. Figure 15A It indicates that it is in a folded state. Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the display device DP. Figure 15B It indicates that it is in a curled state. Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the display device DP.

[0215] like Figure 14 As shown, the display device DP can be formed into a flat shape, but at least a portion of the display device DP can be varied to form other shapes.

[0216] Reference Figure 15A and Figure 15B as well as Figure 14 In an exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of the display device DP may be flexible, or the entire display device DP may be flexible.

[0217] Because the display device DP is flexible, the display device DP in the flexible area is like... Figure 15A The folded shape shown, or as... Figure 15B The image shown is curled.

[0218] The folding line of the folding display device DP can pass through the central portion of the display device DP and can be parallel to the second direction D2. However, the position of the folding line is not limited to this. The folding line can be arranged in a direction parallel to the first direction D1, and can be arranged in a direction inclined about the first direction D1 or the second direction D2. Furthermore, it goes without saying that the folding line does not need to pass through the center of the display device DP. In addition, when folding about the folding line, the display device DP can be folded such that the front surface of the displayed image becomes the inner or outer side. Alternatively, when the display device DP is folded about multiple folding lines, a portion of the display device DP can be folded such that the front surface becomes the inner side, and another portion of the display device DP can be folded such that the front surface becomes the outer side.

[0219] In the attached figure, reference numeral D3 means a third direction that is perpendicular to each of the first direction D1 and the second direction D2.

[0220] The display device DP can be rolled up so that one side faces the other. The rolling direction of the display device DP can be a first direction D1 or a second direction D2. However, the rolling direction is not limited to this, and can be an inclined direction about the first direction D1 or the second direction D2. Furthermore, in the display device DP, the rolled area can be a part of the display device DP, and the entire area of ​​the display device DP can also be rolled up.

[0221] As described above, exemplary embodiments of the invention provide a display device capable of enhancing security functions by including a fingerprint sensor with improved sensitivity. Furthermore, exemplary embodiments provide a high-quality display device in which the resolution of the area including the fingerprint sensor is substantially the same as the resolution of the area excluding the fingerprint sensor.

[0222] Furthermore, an exemplary embodiment provides a display device capable of sensing touch location and touch pressure, as well as fingerprints, thereby enhancing ease of use.

[0223] The display device according to the exemplary embodiments can be applied to various electronic devices. For example, the display device can be applied to various electronic devices such as televisions, laptops, mobile phones, smartphones, smart tablets, PMPs, PDAs, navigation systems, smartwatches, etc.

[0224] While specific exemplary embodiments and implementations have been described herein, other embodiments and modifications will become apparent from this description. Therefore, the inventive concept is not limited to such embodiments, but is limited to the broader scope of the claims, various apparent modifications, and equivalent arrangements.

Claims

1. A display device, the display device comprising: The substrate, in a plan view, includes a first region having a first transmittance and a second region adjacent to the first region having a second transmittance; Multiple pixels are disposed on the substrate to display an image; A light sensor is disposed in the first region below the substrate; An insulating layer is located on the substrate; A pixel-defining layer is located on the substrate; as well as A passivation layer is located on the substrate; Wherein, the first transmittance is greater than the second transmittance. The first region includes a light-emitting region of a first size and a light-transmitting region of a second size through which light is transmitted, wherein the light-transmitting region is different from the light-emitting region. The first dimension is smaller than the second dimension to improve the sensitivity of the optical sensor. The plurality of pixels includes at least one first pixel in the first region and a second pixel in the second region. The first pixel includes the light-emitting region and the light-transmitting region. The first pixel includes at least one first sub-pixel disposed in the light-emitting area. The first sub-pixel includes: a first electrode disposed on the substrate; an emission layer disposed on the first electrode; and a second electrode disposed on the emission layer. The insulating layer is disposed between the substrate and the first electrode. The insulating layer extends into the light-transmitting region. In the planar view, the insulating layer is stacked with the pixel defining layer and the passivation layer in the light transmission region. The first sub-pixel further includes at least one structure selected from the group consisting of a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, an electron transport layer, and an electron injection layer, wherein the at least one structure is disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The at least one structure extends across the light-transmitting region.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The second pixel includes at least one second sub-pixel, and Each of the first and second sub-pixels emits light of a wavelength selected from the group consisting of red, green, and blue light.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The second pixel includes at least one second sub-pixel, and The size of the first sub-pixel is smaller than the size of the second sub-pixel.

4. The display device according to claim 2, wherein, The size of the first pixel is the same as the size of the second pixel.

5. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: A first sensor, mounted on the substrate, is used to sense the touch location input by the user. The first sensor is either a self-capacitance type touch sensor or a mutual capacitance type touch sensor. The first sensor includes: a first touch electrode; and a second touch electrode, separated from the first touch electrode and forming a capacitor with the first touch electrode. In the plan view, portions of the first touch electrode and the second touch electrode do not overlap with the first region.

6. A display device, the display device comprising: The substrate, in a plan view, includes a first region having a first transmittance and a second region adjacent to the first region having a second transmittance; Multiple pixels are disposed on the substrate to display an image; An insulating layer is located on the substrate; A pixel-defining layer is located on the substrate; as well as A passivation layer is located on the substrate; Wherein, the first transmittance is greater than the second transmittance. The first region includes a light-emitting region of a first size and a light-transmitting region of a second size through which light is transmitted, wherein the light-transmitting region is different from the light-emitting region. Wherein, the first dimension is smaller than the second dimension. The plurality of pixels includes at least one first pixel in the first region and a second pixel in the second region. The first pixel includes the light-emitting region and the light-transmitting region. The first pixel includes at least one first sub-pixel disposed in the light-emitting area. The first sub-pixel includes: a first electrode disposed on the substrate; an emission layer disposed on the first electrode; and a second electrode disposed on the emission layer. The insulating layer is disposed between the substrate and the first electrode. The insulating layer extends into the light-transmitting region. In the planar view, the insulating layer is stacked with the pixel defining layer and the passivation layer in the light transmission region. The first sub-pixel further includes at least one structure selected from the group consisting of a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, an electron transport layer, and an electron injection layer, wherein the at least one structure is disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The at least one structure extends across the light-transmitting region.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein the second pixel comprises at least one second sub-pixel, and in, Each of the first and second sub-pixels emits light of a wavelength selected from the group consisting of red, green, and blue light.

8. The display device according to claim 6, wherein, The second pixel includes at least one second sub-pixel, and The size of the first sub-pixel is smaller than the size of the second sub-pixel.

9. The display device according to claim 7, wherein, The size of the first pixel is the same as the size of the second pixel.

10. The display device according to claim 7, further comprising: A light sensor is disposed in the first region below the substrate.

11. The display device according to claim 6, further comprising: A first sensor, mounted on the substrate, is used to sense the touch location input by the user. The first sensor is either a self-capacitance type touch sensor or a mutual capacitance type touch sensor. The first sensor includes: a first touch electrode; and a second touch electrode, separated from the first touch electrode and forming a capacitor with the first touch electrode. In the plan view, some of the first touch electrode and the second touch electrode do not overlap with the first area.

12. A display device, the display device comprising: The substrate, in a plan view, includes a first region having a first transmittance and a second region adjacent to the first region having a second transmittance; Multiple pixels are disposed on the substrate to display an image; A plurality of thin-film transistors are disposed on the substrate, each of the plurality of thin-film transistors including an active layer, a gate electrode, a source electrode, and a drain electrode; A light sensor is disposed in the first region beneath the substrate. An insulating layer is located on the substrate; A pixel-defining layer is located on the substrate; as well as A passivation layer is located on the substrate; Wherein, the first transmittance is greater than the second transmittance. The first region includes a light-emitting region of a first size and a light-transmitting region of a second size through which light is transmitted, wherein the light-transmitting region is different from the light-emitting region. The first dimension is smaller than the second dimension to improve the sensitivity of the optical sensor. The plurality of pixels includes at least one first pixel in the first region and a second pixel in the second region. The first pixel includes the light-emitting region and the light-transmitting region. The first pixel includes at least one first sub-pixel disposed in the light-emitting area. The first sub-pixel includes: a first electrode disposed on the substrate; an emission layer disposed on the first electrode; and a second electrode disposed on the emission layer. The insulating layer is disposed between the active layer and the first electrode. The first sub-pixel further includes at least one structure selected from the group consisting of a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, an electron transport layer, and an electron injection layer, wherein the at least one structure is disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. Wherein, the at least one structure extends across the light-transmitting region, and Wherein, a portion of the insulating layer is not disposed in the light-transmitting region within the first region.

13. The display device according to claim 12, wherein, The second pixel includes at least one second sub-pixel, and Each of the first and second sub-pixels emits light of a wavelength selected from the group consisting of red, green, and blue light.

14. The display device according to claim 13, wherein, The size of the first sub-pixel is smaller than the size of the second sub-pixel.

15. The display device according to claim 14, wherein, The display device further includes: A first sensor, mounted on the substrate, is used to sense the touch location input by the user. The first sensor is either a self-capacitance type touch sensor or a mutual capacitance type touch sensor. The first sensor includes: a first touch electrode; and a second touch electrode, separated from the first touch electrode and forming a capacitor with the first touch electrode. Each of the first touch electrode and the second touch electrode includes a mesh structure.

16. The display device according to claim 15, wherein, In the plan view, the portion of the first sensor and the first region do not overlap.

17. A display device, the display device comprising: The substrate, in a plan view, includes a first region having a first transmittance and a second region adjacent to the first region having a second transmittance; Multiple pixels are disposed on the substrate to display an image; A plurality of thin-film transistors are disposed on the substrate, each of the plurality of thin-film transistors including an active layer, a gate electrode, a source electrode, and a drain electrode; A light sensor is disposed in the first region beneath the substrate. An insulating layer is located on the substrate; A pixel-defining layer is located on the substrate; as well as A passivation layer is located on the substrate. Wherein, the first transmittance is greater than the second transmittance. The first region includes a light-emitting region of a first size and a light-transmitting region of a second size through which light is transmitted, wherein the light-transmitting region is different from the light-emitting region. The first dimension is smaller than the second dimension to improve the sensitivity of the optical sensor. The plurality of pixels includes at least one first pixel in the first region and a second pixel in the second region. The first pixel includes the light-emitting region and the light-transmitting region. Wherein, the at least one first pixel includes at least one first sub-pixel disposed in the light-emitting area. The first sub-pixel includes: a first electrode disposed on the substrate; an emission layer disposed on the first electrode; and a second electrode disposed on the emission layer. The insulating layer is disposed between the active layer and the first electrode. The passivation layer is disposed between the source electrode or the drain electrode and the first electrode. The first sub-pixel further includes at least one structure selected from the group consisting of a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, an electron transport layer, and an electron injection layer, wherein the at least one structure is disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The at least one structure extends across the light-transmitting region. Wherein, a portion of the insulating layer is not disposed in the light-transmitting region within the first region, and In this case, a portion of the passivation layer is not disposed in the light transmission region within the first region.

18. The display device according to claim 17, wherein, The second pixel includes at least one second sub-pixel, and Each of the first and second sub-pixels emits light of a wavelength selected from the group consisting of red, green, and blue light.

19. The display device according to claim 18, wherein, The size of the first sub-pixel is smaller than the size of the second sub-pixel.

20. The display device according to claim 17, further comprising: A first sensor, mounted on the substrate, is used to sense the touch location input by the user. The first sensor is either a self-capacitance type touch sensor or a mutual capacitance type touch sensor. The first sensor includes: a first touch electrode; and a second touch electrode, separated from the first touch electrode and forming a capacitor with the first touch electrode. Each of the first touch electrode and the second touch electrode includes a mesh structure.

21. The display device according to claim 17, wherein, A portion of the second electrode is not located in the light-transmitting region within the first region.

22. A display device, the display device comprising: The substrate, in a plan view, includes a first region having a first transmittance and a second region adjacent to the first region having a second transmittance; Multiple pixels are disposed on the substrate to display an image; A plurality of thin-film transistors are disposed on the substrate, each of the plurality of thin-film transistors including an active layer, a gate electrode, a source electrode, and a drain electrode; An insulating layer is located on the substrate; A pixel-defining layer is located on the substrate; as well as A passivation layer is located on the substrate; Wherein, the first transmittance is greater than the second transmittance. The first region includes a light-emitting region of a first size and a light-transmitting region of a second size through which light is transmitted, wherein the light-transmitting region is different from the light-emitting region. Wherein, the first dimension is smaller than the second dimension. The plurality of pixels includes at least one first pixel in the first region and a second pixel in the second region. The first pixel includes the light-emitting region and the light-transmitting region. The first pixel includes at least one first sub-pixel disposed in the light-emitting area. The first sub-pixel includes: a first electrode disposed on the substrate; an emission layer disposed on the first electrode; and a second electrode disposed on the emission layer. The insulating layer is disposed between the active layer and the first electrode. The passivation layer is disposed between the source electrode or the drain electrode and the first electrode. The first sub-pixel further includes at least one structure selected from the group consisting of a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, an electron transport layer, and an electron injection layer, wherein the at least one structure is disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The at least one structure extends across the light-transmitting region. Wherein, a portion of the insulating layer is not disposed in the light-transmitting region within the first region, and In this case, a portion of the passivation layer is not disposed in the light transmission region within the first region.

23. The display device according to claim 22, wherein, The second pixel includes at least one second sub-pixel, and Each of the first and second sub-pixels emits light of a wavelength selected from the group consisting of red, green, and blue light.

24. The display device according to claim 23, wherein, The size of the first sub-pixel is smaller than the size of the second sub-pixel.

25. The display device according to claim 24, further comprising: A first sensor, mounted on the substrate, is used to sense the touch location input by the user. The first sensor is either a self-capacitance type touch sensor or a mutual capacitance type touch sensor. The first sensor includes: a first touch electrode; and a second touch electrode, separated from the first touch electrode and forming a capacitor with the first touch electrode. Each of the first touch electrode and the second touch electrode includes a mesh structure.

26. The display device according to claim 22, wherein, A portion of the second electrode is not located in the light-transmitting region within the first region.

27. A display device, the display device comprising: The substrate, in a plan view, includes a first region having a first transmittance and a second region adjacent to the first region having a second transmittance; Multiple pixels are disposed on the substrate to display an image; A plurality of thin-film transistors are disposed on the substrate, each of the plurality of thin-film transistors including an active layer, a gate electrode, a source electrode, and a drain electrode; A light sensor is disposed in the first region beneath the substrate. An insulating layer is located on the substrate; A pixel-defining layer is located on the substrate; A passivation layer is located on the substrate; as well as A first sensor is mounted on the substrate to sense the touch location input by the user. Wherein, the first transmittance is greater than the second transmittance, so as to improve the transmittance of the optical sensor. The plurality of pixels includes at least one first pixel in the first region and a second pixel in the second region. The first pixel includes a light-emitting region and a light-transmitting region. Wherein, the at least one first pixel includes at least one first sub-pixel disposed in the light-emitting area. The first sub-pixel includes: a first electrode disposed on the substrate; an emission layer disposed on the first electrode; and a second electrode disposed on the emission layer. The insulating layer is disposed between the active layer and the first electrode. The passivation layer is disposed between the source electrode or the drain electrode and the first electrode. The first sub-pixel further includes at least one structure selected from the group consisting of a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, an electron transport layer, and an electron injection layer, wherein the at least one structure is disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. Wherein, a portion of the insulating layer is not located in the light-transmitting region within the first region. Wherein, a portion of the passivation layer is not disposed in the light transmission region within the first region. In this case, a portion of the second electrode is not located in the light-transmitting region within the first region. The second pixel includes at least one second sub-pixel. Each of the first and second sub-pixels emits light of a wavelength selected from the group consisting of red, green, and blue light. The first sensor is either a self-capacitance type touch sensor or a mutual capacitance type touch sensor. The first sensor includes: a first touch electrode; and a second touch electrode, separated from the first touch electrode and forming a capacitor with the first touch electrode. Each of the first touch electrode and the second touch electrode includes a mesh structure.

28. The display device according to claim 27, wherein, The size of the first sub-pixel is smaller than the size of the second sub-pixel.

29. The display device according to claim 28, wherein, The size of the first pixel is the same as the size of the second pixel.

30. A display device, the display device comprising: The substrate, in a plan view, includes a first region having a first transmittance and a second region adjacent to the first region having a second transmittance; Multiple pixels are disposed on the substrate to display an image; A plurality of thin-film transistors are disposed on the substrate, each of the plurality of thin-film transistors including an active layer, a gate electrode, a source electrode, and a drain electrode; An insulating layer is located on the substrate; A pixel-defining layer is located on the substrate; A passivation layer is located on the substrate; as well as A first sensor, mounted on the substrate, is used to sense the touch location input by the user. Wherein, the first transmittance is greater than the second transmittance. The plurality of pixels includes at least one first pixel in the first region and a second pixel in the second region. The first pixel includes a light-emitting region and a light-transmitting region. The first pixel includes at least one first sub-pixel disposed in the light-emitting area. The first sub-pixel includes: a first electrode disposed on the substrate; an emission layer disposed on the first electrode; and a second electrode disposed on the emission layer. The insulating layer is disposed between the active layer and the first electrode. The passivation layer is disposed between the source electrode or the drain electrode and the first electrode. The first sub-pixel further includes at least one structure selected from the group consisting of a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, an electron transport layer, and an electron injection layer, wherein the at least one structure is disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. Wherein, a portion of the insulating layer is not located in the light-transmitting region within the first region. Wherein, a portion of the passivation layer is not disposed in the light transmission region within the first region. In this case, a portion of the second electrode is not located in the light-transmitting region within the first region. The first sub-pixel emits light of a wavelength selected from the group of red, green, and blue light. The first sensor is either a self-capacitance type touch sensor or a mutual capacitance type touch sensor. The first sensor includes: a first touch electrode; and a second touch electrode, separated from the first touch electrode and forming a capacitor with the first touch electrode. Each of the first touch electrode and the second touch electrode includes a mesh structure.

31. The display device according to claim 30, wherein, The second pixel includes at least one second sub-pixel, and Wherein, the size of at least one first sub-pixel is smaller than the size of the second sub-pixel.

32. The display device according to claim 31, wherein, The size of the first pixel is the same as the size of the second pixel.

33. The display device according to claim 30, further comprising: A light sensor is disposed in the first region below the substrate.

34. The display device according to claim 30, wherein, In the plan view, the portion of the first sensor and the first region do not overlap.

35. A display device, the display device comprising: The substrate, in a plan view, includes a first region having a first transmittance and a second region adjacent to the first region having a second transmittance; Multiple pixels are disposed on the substrate to display an image; as well as A first sensor, mounted on the substrate, is used to sense the touch location input by the user. Wherein, the first transmittance is greater than the second transmittance. The first region includes a light-emitting region of a first size and a light-transmitting region of a second size through which light is transmitted, wherein the light-transmitting region is different from the light-emitting region. Wherein, the first dimension is smaller than the second dimension. Each of the plurality of pixels includes at least one sub-pixel disposed in the light-emitting area. The sub-pixel includes: a first electrode disposed on the substrate; an emission layer disposed on the first electrode; and a second electrode disposed on the emission layer. The sub-pixel emits light of a wavelength selected from the group consisting of red, green, and blue light. The first sensor is either a self-capacitance type touch sensor or a mutual capacitance type touch sensor. The first sensor includes: a first touch electrode; and a second touch electrode, separated from the first touch electrode and forming a capacitor with the first touch electrode. Each of the first touch electrode and the second touch electrode includes a mesh structure.

36. The display device according to claim 35, wherein, In the plan view, the portion of the first sensor and the first region do not overlap.

37. The display device according to claim 35, further comprising: A light sensor is disposed in the first region below the substrate.

38. The display device according to claim 37, wherein, In the plan view, the portion of the first sensor and the first region do not overlap.

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