Display panel and display device

Abstract

The application discloses a display panel and a display device, and belongs to the technical field of display. The display panel comprises a substrate substrate, a pixel circuit layer, a pixel definition layer, a plurality of electroluminescent layers, a first electrode layer, an auxiliary electrode structure and a light-transmitting electrode patterning structure, and the auxiliary electrode structure and the electrode patterning structure are located on the side of the first electrode layer away from the substrate substrate. The auxiliary electrode structure comprising an auxiliary electrode layer and an auxiliary electrode pattern is arranged on the first electrode layer, and the auxiliary electrode layer or the auxiliary electrode pattern is in contact with the first electrode layer. The structure can protect the first electrode layer and reduce the possibility of breakage of the first electrode layer. The problem of low yield of the display panel in the prior art is solved, and the yield of the display panel is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of display technology, and in particular to a display panel and a display device. Background Technology

[0002] A display panel is a device that enables display functions.

[0003] A display panel includes a substrate and a first electrode, a plurality of electroluminescent layers and a second electrode layer sequentially disposed on the substrate. The second electrode layer can cooperate with the first electrode to drive the electroluminescent layers to emit light in order to realize the display function.

[0004] However, the aforementioned second electrode layer is prone to breakage, resulting in a low yield rate for the display panel. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a display panel and a display device. The technical solution is as follows:

[0006] According to one aspect of the embodiments of this application, a display panel is provided, the display panel comprising:

[0007] A substrate, the substrate including a display area and a peripheral area surrounding the display area;

[0008] A pixel circuit layer is located on one side of the substrate and in the display area;

[0009] A pixel defining layer is located on the side of the pixel circuit layer away from the substrate and includes a plurality of pixel openings; a plurality of electroluminescent layers are located in the plurality of pixel openings;

[0010] A first electrode layer is located on the side of the plurality of electroluminescent layers away from the substrate.

[0011] An auxiliary electrode structure and a light-transmitting electrode patterned structure are provided. The auxiliary electrode structure and the electrode patterned structure are located on the side of the first electrode layer away from the substrate. The auxiliary electrode structure includes an auxiliary electrode layer and an auxiliary electrode pattern. One of the structures of the auxiliary electrode layer and the auxiliary electrode pattern is in contact with the first electrode layer. The orthographic projection of the electrode patterned structure on the substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of at least one of the plurality of pixel openings on the substrate. The orthographic projection of the auxiliary electrode pattern on the substrate and the orthographic projection of the electrode patterned structure on the substrate do not overlap.

[0012] Optionally, the display panel further includes:

[0013] A first light extraction layer is located on the side of the auxiliary electrode structure and the light-transmitting electrode patterned structure away from the substrate. The refractive index of the first light extraction layer is less than the refractive index of the auxiliary electrode structure and the light-transmitting electrode patterned structure.

[0014] Optionally, the auxiliary electrode layer is located on the side of the first electrode layer away from the substrate.

[0015] The electrode patterning structure is located on the side of the auxiliary electrode layer away from the substrate.

[0016] The auxiliary electrode pattern is located in a region on the auxiliary electrode layer where the electrode patterning structure is not provided, and the orthographic projection of the auxiliary electrode pattern on the substrate at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the pixel defining layer on the substrate.

[0017] Optionally, the auxiliary electrode pattern includes a first auxiliary electrode sub-pattern that at least partially surrounds the pixel opening, wherein the thickness of the first auxiliary electrode sub-pattern is greater than the thickness of the electrode patterning structure in a direction perpendicular to the substrate.

[0018] The display panel further includes a first planarization layer, which is located on the side of the first light extraction layer away from the substrate, and the refractive index of the first planarization layer is greater than the refractive index of the first light extraction layer.

[0019] Optionally, the display area includes a plurality of light-emitting areas, each of the light-emitting areas includes a plurality of sub-light-emitting areas, and each of the sub-light-emitting areas has at least one of the electroluminescent layers;

[0020] The auxiliary electrode pattern also includes a second auxiliary electrode sub-pattern located between the plurality of sub-light-emitting regions, wherein the thickness of the second auxiliary electrode sub-pattern is greater than the thickness of the electrode patterning structure in the direction perpendicular to the substrate.

[0021] Optionally, in the direction perpendicular to the substrate, the sum of the thickness of the electrode patterned structure and the thickness of the first light extraction layer is less than the thickness of the auxiliary electrode pattern.

[0022] Optionally, in a direction perpendicular to the substrate, the thickness of the auxiliary electrode pattern is less than or equal to the thickness of the electrode patterning structure.

[0023] Optionally, the electrode patterning structure is located on the side of the first electrode layer away from the substrate.

[0024] The auxiliary electrode pattern is located in the area on the auxiliary electrode layer where the electrode patterning structure is not provided;

[0025] The auxiliary electrode layer is located on the side of the auxiliary electrode pattern away from the substrate.

[0026] Optionally, the pixel defining layer includes a partition structure located between at least two of the plurality of electroluminescent layers;

[0027] The orthographic projection of the partition structure on the substrate lies within the orthographic projection of the auxiliary electrode pattern on the substrate.

[0028] Optionally, the first electrode layer, the electrode patterning structure, and the auxiliary electrode pattern are configured to be formed by a vapor deposition process.

[0029] Optionally, the display panel further includes a lens array located on the side of the electrode patterning structure away from the substrate, the lens array including at least one lens structure located in the display area;

[0030] The display panel further includes a second planarization layer located between the lens array and the first light extraction layer, wherein the refractive index of the material of the second planarization layer is less than the refractive index of the material of the lens structure.

[0031] Optionally, the display area includes a plurality of light-emitting areas, each of the light-emitting areas includes a plurality of sub-light-emitting areas, and each of the sub-light-emitting areas has at least one of the electroluminescent layers;

[0032] The lens array includes multiple lens structures located in the multiple sub-light-emitting regions.

[0033] Optionally, the auxiliary electrode layer is located on the side of the first electrode layer away from the substrate, the electrode patterning structure is located on the side of the auxiliary electrode layer away from the substrate, and the auxiliary electrode pattern is located in the area of ​​the auxiliary electrode layer where the electrode patterning structure is not provided.

[0034] The lens structure is located on the side of the electrode patterning structure away from the substrate.

[0035] Optionally, the display area includes a plurality of light-emitting areas, each of the light-emitting areas includes a plurality of sub-light-emitting areas, and each of the sub-light-emitting areas has at least one of the electroluminescent layers;

[0036] The auxiliary electrode pattern includes a first auxiliary electrode sub-pattern surrounding the light-emitting area and a second auxiliary electrode sub-pattern located between the plurality of sub-light-emitting areas. In the direction perpendicular to the substrate, the thickness of the auxiliary electrode pattern is greater than the thickness of the electrode patterned structure.

[0037] Optionally, the display panel further includes a spacer layer located on the side of the electrode patterning structure away from the substrate, and the lens structure located on the side of the spacer layer away from the substrate.

[0038] Optionally, the display panel further includes an encapsulation layer, the encapsulation layer including the first light extraction layer and a first light-transmitting layer, a second light-transmitting layer and a third light-transmitting layer stacked sequentially on the first light extraction layer, wherein the refractive index of the first light-transmitting layer is greater than the refractive index of the second light-transmitting layer and the first light extraction layer, and the refractive index of the second light-transmitting layer is less than the refractive index of the third light-transmitting layer.

[0039] Optionally, the material of the first light extraction layer includes silicon oxide, the material of the first light-transmitting layer includes silicon oxynitride or silicon nitride, the material of the second light-transmitting layer includes a resin material, and the material of the third light-transmitting layer includes silicon nitride.

[0040] Optionally, the thickness of the first light extraction layer ranges from 10 nanometers to 1000 nanometers, the thickness of the first light-transmitting layer and the third light-transmitting layer ranges from 600 nanometers to 1200 nanometers, and the thickness of the second light-transmitting layer ranges from 3 micrometers to 5 micrometers.

[0041] Optionally, the display panel further includes an encapsulation layer located on the side of the first light extraction layer away from the substrate. The encapsulation layer includes a first light-transmitting layer, a second light-transmitting layer, and a third light-transmitting layer stacked sequentially in a direction away from the substrate. The refractive index of the first light-transmitting layer is greater than the refractive index of the second light-transmitting layer and the first light extraction layer, and the refractive index of the second light-transmitting layer is less than the refractive index of the third light-transmitting layer.

[0042] Optionally, the auxiliary electrode layer is made of a transparent conductive oxide, and the auxiliary electrode pattern is made of a conductive metal material.

[0043] Optionally, the thickness of the auxiliary electrode layer ranges from 50 nanometers to 1000 nanometers, and the thickness of the electrode patterning structure ranges from 5 nanometers to 100 nanometers.

[0044] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this application, a display panel is provided, the display panel comprising:

[0045] A substrate, wherein the substrate includes a display area and a peripheral area surrounding the display area, the display area includes a plurality of light-emitting areas, and each light-emitting area includes a plurality of sub-light-emitting areas;

[0046] Multiple electroluminescent layers are located on the substrate.

[0047] A first electrode layer is located on the side of the plurality of electroluminescent layers away from the substrate.

[0048] An auxiliary electrode structure and a light-transmitting electrode patterned structure are provided. The auxiliary electrode structure and the electrode patterned structure are located on the side of the first electrode layer away from the substrate. The auxiliary electrode structure includes an auxiliary electrode layer and an auxiliary electrode pattern. One of the structures in the auxiliary electrode layer and the auxiliary electrode pattern is in contact with the first electrode layer. The auxiliary electrode pattern includes a plurality of auxiliary electrode openings. At least one of the plurality of auxiliary electrode openings has its orthogonal projection on the substrate at least partially located in the sub-light-emitting region. The electrode patterned structure includes a plurality of electrode patterned substructures, and the electrode patterned substructures are located in the auxiliary electrode openings.

[0049] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this application, a display device is provided, the display device including a display panel, the display panel including:

[0050] A substrate, wherein the substrate includes a plurality of display areas and a peripheral area surrounding the display areas;

[0051] A pixel circuit layer is located on one side of the substrate and in the display area;

[0052] A pixel defining layer is located on the side of the pixel circuit layer away from the substrate and includes a plurality of pixel openings;

[0053] Multiple electroluminescent layers, wherein the multiple electroluminescent layers are located in the multiple pixel openings;

[0054] A first electrode layer is located on the side of the plurality of electroluminescent layers away from the substrate.

[0055] An auxiliary electrode structure and a light-transmitting electrode patterned structure are provided. The auxiliary electrode structure and the electrode patterned structure are located on the side of the first electrode layer away from the substrate. The auxiliary electrode structure includes an auxiliary electrode layer and an auxiliary electrode pattern. One of the structures of the auxiliary electrode layer and the auxiliary electrode pattern is in contact with the first electrode layer. The orthographic projection of the electrode patterned structure on the substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of at least one of the plurality of pixel openings on the substrate. The orthographic projection of the auxiliary electrode pattern on the substrate and the orthographic projection of the electrode patterned structure on the substrate do not overlap.

[0056] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this application, a method for manufacturing a display panel is provided, the method comprising:

[0057] A pixel circuit layer is formed on a substrate, the substrate including a display area and a peripheral area surrounding the display area, the pixel circuit layer being located in the display area;

[0058] A pixel defining layer is formed on the side of the pixel circuit layer away from the substrate, and the pixel defining layer includes a plurality of pixel openings;

[0059] Multiple electroluminescent layers are formed in the plurality of pixel openings;

[0060] A first electrode layer is formed on the side of the plurality of electroluminescent layers away from the substrate.

[0061] An auxiliary electrode structure and a light-transmitting electrode patterned structure are formed on the side of the first electrode layer away from the substrate. The auxiliary electrode structure includes an auxiliary electrode layer and an auxiliary electrode pattern. One of the structures of the auxiliary electrode layer and the auxiliary electrode pattern is in contact with the first electrode layer. The orthographic projection of the electrode patterned structure on the substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of at least one of the plurality of pixel openings on the substrate. The orthographic projection of the auxiliary electrode pattern on the substrate and the orthographic projection of the electrode patterned structure on the substrate do not overlap.

[0062] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0063] A first light extraction layer is formed on the side of the auxiliary electrode structure and the electrode patterning structure away from the substrate, and the refractive index of the first light extraction layer is less than the refractive index of the auxiliary electrode structure and the light-transmitting electrode patterning structure.

[0064] Optionally, forming an auxiliary electrode structure and a light-transmitting electrode patterning structure on the side of the first electrode layer away from the substrate includes:

[0065] The auxiliary electrode layer is formed on the side of the first electrode layer away from the substrate.

[0066] The electrode patterning structure is formed on the side of the auxiliary electrode layer away from the substrate.

[0067] The auxiliary electrode pattern is formed in a region on the auxiliary electrode layer where the electrode patterning structure is not formed, and the orthographic projection of the auxiliary electrode pattern on the substrate at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the pixel defining layer on the substrate.

[0068] Optionally, forming a first electrode layer on the side of the plurality of electroluminescent layers away from the substrate includes:

[0069] The first electrode layer is formed on the side of the plurality of electroluminescent layers away from the substrate by a vapor deposition process;

[0070] The step of forming an auxiliary electrode structure and a light-transmitting electrode patterning structure on the side of the first electrode layer away from the substrate includes:

[0071] The electrode patterning structure is formed on the side of the first electrode layer away from the substrate by a vapor deposition process;

[0072] The auxiliary electrode pattern is formed in the area on the first electrode layer where the electrode patterned structure is not formed by the vapor deposition process.

[0073] The auxiliary electrode layer is formed on the side of the auxiliary electrode pattern away from the substrate by a sputtering process.

[0074] The beneficial effects of the technical solutions provided in this application include at least the following:

[0075] By setting an auxiliary electrode structure including an auxiliary electrode layer and an auxiliary electrode pattern on the first electrode layer, and having the auxiliary electrode layer or auxiliary electrode pattern in contact with the first electrode layer, this structure can protect the first electrode layer and reduce the possibility of breakage. On the other hand, it can ensure that the fracture point can be electrically connected to the auxiliary electrode structure when the first electrode layer breaks, thus preventing damage to the electrical function of the first electrode layer. This solves the problem of low yield of display panels in related technologies and achieves the effect of improving the yield of display panels. Attached Figure Description

[0076] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0077] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a current display panel;

[0078] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of another type of display panel currently available;

[0079] Figure 3 This is a structural diagram of the area where the partition structure is located in another type of display panel;

[0080] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a display panel provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0081] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a cross-sectional structure of the display panel shown;

[0082] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0083] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A top view of the display panel shown;

[0084] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0085] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0086] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0087] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0088] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A top view of the display panel shown;

[0089] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0090] Figure 14 yes Figure 12 A top view of the display panel shown;

[0091] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0092] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0093] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0094] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0095] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0096] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0097] Figure 21 yes Figure 20 The diagram shows a top view of the display panel's structure.

[0098] Figure 22 yes Figure 4 Another cross-sectional view of the display panel shown;

[0099] Figure 23 This is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a display panel according to an embodiment of this application;

[0100] Figure 24 yes Figure 23 A flowchart illustrating the formation of an auxiliary electrode structure and a light-transmitting electrode patterning structure in the illustrated embodiment;

[0101] Figure 25 yes Figure 23 The flowchart of another embodiment for forming an auxiliary electrode structure and a light-transmitting electrode patterning structure is shown.

[0102] The accompanying drawings illustrate specific embodiments of this application, which will be described in more detail below. These drawings and descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the concept in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of this application to those skilled in the art through reference to particular embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0103] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0104] A display panel is a device that enables display functions. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a current display panel structure. The display panel includes a substrate 11, an anode 12, multiple electroluminescent layers 13, and a cathode layer 14. The anode 12, electroluminescent layers 13, and cathode layer 14 are sequentially stacked on the substrate. The multiple electroluminescent layers 13 can be driven by a common cathode structure, meaning that each electroluminescent layer 13 has an independent anode 12, and the multiple electroluminescent layers 13 share a single cathode layer 14, which is a single, continuous layer. In this way, the multiple anodes 12 and cathode layers 14 can be used to drive the electroluminescent layers 13 individually.

[0105] However, the overall structure of the cathode layer 14 in the above-mentioned display panel is relatively large. It may break due to unevenness of the underlying structure and bending of the display panel under stress. This may cause the electroluminescent layer at the break point to be unable to operate normally, resulting in a low yield, poor durability, and short lifespan of the display panel.

[0106] This problem is particularly severe in another type of display panel; for example, please refer to [link to example]. Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of another type of display panel, which includes a substrate 11, an anode 12, multiple electroluminescent layers 13, and a cathode layer 14. The anode 12, electroluminescent layers 13, and cathode layer 14 are sequentially stacked on the substrate. Figure 1 Unlike the display panel shown, the electroluminescent layer 13 includes two stacked sub-electroluminescent layers 131 (this structure can be a series-connected organic light-emitting diode (TANDEM)). Similarly, the stacked electroluminescent layers 13 can be driven by a common cathode structure. The two stacked sub-electroluminescent layers 131 can share a lower anode 12, and multiple electroluminescent layers 13 can share a cathode layer 14, which is a single, continuous structure. This achieves the series connection structure of the two stacked sub-electroluminescent layers 131, and the electroluminescent layers 13 can be driven separately by the multiple anodes 12 and cathode layers 14.

[0107] Additionally, in a direction parallel to the substrate 11, there is a partition structure 15 between the electroluminescent layers 13. This partition structure 15 is used to isolate some high-mobility film layers (such as charge generation layers) inside the display panel to improve the display effect. However, this partition structure 15 may break the upper cathode layer 14, causing a short circuit in a part of the cathode layer 14. For example, as shown in... Figure 3 As shown, Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the area where the partition structure is located in another type of display panel, wherein the cathode layer 14 above is fractured under the action of the partition structure 15.

[0108] Additionally, the display panel may also include a first light extraction layer 15 and a second light extraction layer 16 formed above the cathode layer 14, wherein the refractive index of the first light extraction layer 15 is greater than that of the second light extraction layer 16, thereby achieving the effect of light extraction. An encapsulation layer 17 may also be disposed above the second light extraction layer 16.

[0109] This application provides a display panel, a display device, and a method for manufacturing the display panel, which can solve some problems existing in the above-mentioned related technologies.

[0110] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a display panel provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 5 yes Figure 4 The diagram shows a cross-sectional structure of a display panel. Figure 5 It can be Figure 4 (See the cross-sectional view at DD). Figure 4 and Figure 5The display panel includes:

[0111] The substrate 21 includes a display area aa and a peripheral area pa located around the display area aa.

[0112] The pixel circuit layer PCL is located on one side of the substrate 21 and in the display area aa.

[0113] The pixel defining layer pdl is located on the side of the pixel circuit layer pdl away from the substrate 21, and includes multiple pixel openings k1.

[0114] Multiple electroluminescent layers 22 are located in multiple pixel openings k1.

[0115] The first electrode layer 23 is located on the side of the plurality of electroluminescent layers 22 away from the substrate 21.

[0116] The auxiliary electrode structure 24 and the light-transmitting electrode patterned structure 25 are located on the side of the first electrode layer 23 away from the substrate 21. The auxiliary electrode structure 24 includes an auxiliary electrode layer 241 and an auxiliary electrode pattern 242. One of the structures of the auxiliary electrode layer 241 and the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 is in contact with the first electrode layer 23. The orthographic projection of the electrode patterned structure 25 on the substrate 21 overlaps with the orthographic projection of at least one of the plurality of pixel openings k1 on the substrate 21. The orthographic projection of the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 on the substrate 21 and the orthographic projection of the electrode patterned structure 25 on the substrate 21 do not overlap.

[0117] In summary, the display panel provided in this application embodiment, by setting an auxiliary electrode structure including an auxiliary electrode layer and an auxiliary electrode pattern on the first electrode layer, and having the auxiliary electrode layer or auxiliary electrode pattern in contact with the first electrode layer, can protect the first electrode layer and reduce the possibility of breakage. On the other hand, it can ensure that the fracture point can be electrically connected to the auxiliary electrode structure when the first electrode layer breaks, thus preventing damage to the electrical function of the first electrode layer. This solves the problem of low yield of display panels in related technologies and achieves the effect of improving the yield of display panels.

[0118] The pixel circuit layer PCL involved in the embodiments of this application can be used to drive the electroluminescent layer. The pixel circuit layer may include some circuit structures, such as thin film transistors.

[0119] In one exemplary embodiment, please refer to Figure 5The display panel provided in this embodiment further includes a first light extraction layer 26. The first light extraction layer 26 is located on the side of the auxiliary electrode structure 24 and the light-transmitting electrode patterned structure 25 away from the substrate 21. The refractive index of the first light extraction layer 26 is less than that of the auxiliary electrode structure 24 and the light-transmitting electrode patterned structure 25. In this way, the light extraction function can be achieved by the cooperation of the first light extraction layer, the auxiliary electrode structure, and the light-transmitting electrode patterned structure, thereby improving the front light extraction efficiency of the display panel. In this way, the auxiliary electrode structure and the light-transmitting electrode patterned structure are reused as part of the light extraction structure, reducing the impact of the auxiliary electrode structure and the light-transmitting electrode patterned structure on the display panel.

[0120] It should be noted that users usually view the display panel directly in front of it. If there are many large-angle rays emitted from the display panel, it will result in a waste of light. In the display panel provided in this application embodiment, when the refractive index of the first light extraction layer 26 is less than that of the auxiliary electrode structure 24 and the light-transmitting electrode patterned structure 25, the light emitted from the lower electroluminescent layer 22, when passing through the auxiliary electrode structure 24 and the light-transmitting electrode patterned structure 25 and irradiating the interface of the first light extraction layer 26, is in a situation of light traveling from a denser medium to a less dense medium. When the incident angle of the light is greater than or equal to the critical angle of total internal reflection, total internal reflection will occur, and the light will not be able to enter the first light extraction layer 26. It will continue to be reflected in the auxiliary electrode structure 24 and the light-transmitting electrode patterned structure 25 until the incident angle when it irradiates the interface of the first light extraction layer 26 is less than the above-mentioned critical angle, at which point it will enter the first light extraction layer 26. This can prevent large-angle light from exiting the display panel, improve the front light emission efficiency of the display panel, and make the display panel brighter when the user looks at the display panel directly in front of it, thus improving the user experience.

[0121] In this embodiment, the front light emission efficiency can refer to the proportion of light emitted from the display panel with an emission angle less than a specified angle (this specified angle can be preset, such as 30 degrees to 60 degrees, etc., and this embodiment does not limit it).

[0122] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the electrode patterning structure 25 can be a structure used to cooperate in forming the auxiliary electrode pattern 242. The electrode patterning structure 25 can be made of a material that selectively deposits the material of the auxiliary electrode pattern 242, that is, the material of the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 is difficult to deposit on the electrode patterning structure 25. Therefore, after the electrode patterning structure 25 is provided, when the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 is formed, the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 will only be formed in the area where the electrode patterning structure 25 is not provided. In this embodiment, the auxiliary electrode layer and the auxiliary electrode pattern can be stacked.

[0123] In one exemplary embodiment, the auxiliary electrode layer 241 is a light-transmitting film layer. Exemplarily, the material of the auxiliary electrode layer 241 includes a transparent conductive oxide. Since the auxiliary electrode layer 241 is a monolithic structure, it can be manufactured from a highly transparent conductive oxide, such as indium zinc oxide (IZO). Such transparent conductive oxides have certain water and oxygen barrier capabilities, thus improving the durability of the display panel. To reduce the possibility of breakage of the first electrode layer, the thickness of the auxiliary electrode layer 241 can be relatively thick; exemplaryly, the thickness range of the auxiliary electrode layer can be from 50 nanometers to 1000 nanometers.

[0124] The auxiliary electrode pattern 242 is made of conductive metal. Since the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 has minimal impact on the display area, it can be made of a highly conductive metal, such as silver or magnesium.

[0125] In one exemplary embodiment, the first electrode layer 23 can be a cathode layer, and correspondingly, the auxiliary electrode layer 241 can be an auxiliary cathode layer, the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 can be an auxiliary cathode pattern, the electrode patterning structure 25 can be a cathode patterning structure, and the material can include a cathode patterning material (CPM). This cathode patterning material can include:

[0126] (1) 2-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-5-(4-biphenyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazole;

[0127] (2) 2-(4-Biphenyl)-5-phenyl-1,3,4-oxadiazole;

[0128] (3) 1,3-bis(N-carbazolyl)benzene;

[0129] (4) 3-(4-biphenyl)-4-phenyl-5-tert-butylphenyl-1,2,4-triazole;

[0130] (5) N,N′-Diphenyl-N,N′-Di(2-naphthyl)-(1,1′-biphenyl)-4,4′-diamine;

[0131] (6) 4-(1-naphthyl)-3,5-diphenyl-4H-1,2,4-triazole;

[0132] (7) 3,5-Bis[4-(1,1-dimethylethyl)phenyl]-4-phenyl-4H-1,2,4-triazole;

[0133] (8) 2,5-bis(1-naphthyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazole;

[0134] (9) 2-tert-butyl-9,10-bis(naphth-2-yl)anthracene;

[0135] (10) 4,4′-bis(N-carbazolyl)-1,1′-biphenyl;

[0136] (11) Bis(2-methyl-8-quinolinic acid)-4-(phenylphenolic)aluminum;

[0137] (12) 9-[1,1′-biphenyl]-3-yl-9H-carbazole;

[0138] (13) Tris[2-phenylphenylpyridinium-C2,N]iridium(III)

[0139] At least one of these materials.

[0140] The thickness of the electrode patterned structure is 5 nanometers to 100 nanometers, or the thickness of the electrode patterned structure can be 15 nanometers to 100 nanometers, in order to improve the characteristic of the electrode patterned structure to prevent magnesium and silver from forming films on the surface of the electrode patterned structure.

[0141] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application, wherein the auxiliary electrode layer 241 is located on the side of the first electrode layer 23 away from the substrate 21.

[0142] The electrode patterning structure 25 is located on the side of the auxiliary electrode layer 241 away from the substrate 21.

[0143] The auxiliary electrode pattern 242 is located in the area of ​​the auxiliary electrode layer 241 where no electrode patterning structure 25 is provided, and the orthographic projection of the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 on the substrate 21 overlaps at least partially with the orthographic projection of the pixel defining layer pdl on the substrate 21. This ensures that the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 is located above the pixel defining layer pdl, so that when the pixel defining layer pdl breaks the first electrode layer 23, the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 can be electrically connected to the break point of the first electrode layer 23, thus avoiding display abnormalities.

[0144] The auxiliary electrode pattern 242 includes a first auxiliary electrode sub-pattern 2421 that at least partially surrounds the pixel opening k1. In the direction d1 perpendicular to the substrate 21, the thickness h1 of the first auxiliary electrode sub-pattern 2421 is greater than the thickness h2 of the electrode patterning structure 25. This allows for the formation of an undulating structure on the upper surfaces of the electrode patterning structure 25 and the first auxiliary electrode sub-pattern 2421, and a recessed structure w can be formed at the electrode patterning structure 25. A first light extraction layer 26 can be formed on this undulating structure, and the first light extraction layer 26 can cover the bottom and sidewalls of the recessed structure w.

[0145] Optionally, in the direction d1 perpendicular to the substrate 21, the sum of the thickness h2 of the electrode patterned structure 25 and the thickness h3 of the first light extraction layer 26 is less than the thickness h1 of the auxiliary electrode pattern 242. This can further increase the depth of the recess structure w and improve the front light extraction efficiency.

[0146] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Please refer to the top view of the display panel shown. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The first auxiliary electrode sub-pattern 2421 may have multiple openings, each opening containing a pixel opening k1, and the electroluminescent layer 22 is located within the pixel opening k1. It should be noted that, for clarity, the electroluminescent layer 22... Figure 6 The electrode patterned structure 25 is not shown in the figure, but is not limited thereto.

[0147] Please refer to Figure 6 The display panel also includes a first planarization layer 27, which is located on the side of the first light extraction layer 26 away from the substrate. The refractive index of the first planarization layer 27 is greater than that of the first light extraction layer 26. The first planarization layer 27 can fill the aforementioned pit structure w. Because the refractive index of the first planarization layer 27 is greater than that of the first light extraction layer 26, when the light L emitted by the electroluminescent layer 22 strikes the first light extraction layer 26 on the sidewall of the pit at the first planarization layer 27 in the pit structure w, it is in a state of moving from an optically denser medium to an optically less dense medium. Consequently, a portion of the light L with an incident angle greater than the critical angle undergoes total internal reflection and strikes the front of the display panel, thereby improving the front light extraction efficiency of the display panel. That is, the display panel provided in this application embodiment achieves the effect of improving the front light extraction efficiency of the display panel by having a structure in which the thickness of the first auxiliary electrode sub-pattern 2421 is greater than the thickness of the electrode patterning structure 25. In addition, the refractive index of the electrode patterning structure 25 can be the same as or similar to that of the auxiliary electrode layer 241 to reduce the influence on the light beam at the interface between the electrode patterning structure 25 and the auxiliary electrode layer 241.

[0148] The first planarization layer 27 can be prepared by inkjet printing (IJP). The material of the first planarization layer 27 may include polyurethane, and the thickness may be 3 to 5 micrometers.

[0149] Figure 8This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application. The display panel further includes an encapsulation layer f, which comprises a first light extraction layer 26 and a first light-transmitting layer f1, a second light-transmitting layer f2, and a third light-transmitting layer f3 sequentially stacked on the first light extraction layer 26. The refractive index of the first light-transmitting layer f1 is greater than that of the second light-transmitting layer f2 and the first light extraction layer 26, and the refractive index of the second light-transmitting layer f2 is less than that of the third light-transmitting layer f3. This creates a structure where materials with high and low refractive indices are arranged alternately, which can improve the front light emission efficiency of the display panel.

[0150] In this structure, the first light extraction layer 26 is one of the encapsulation layers f, and the first light extraction layer 26 can be prepared by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) or atomic layer deposition (ALD).

[0151] The encapsulation layer f can be a thin film encapsulation (TFE) layer.

[0152] Optionally, the first light extraction layer 26 is made of silicon oxide (SiO), the first light-transmitting layer f1 is made of silicon oxynitride (SiON) or silicon nitride (SiN), the second light-transmitting layer is made of resin, and the third light-transmitting layer f3 is made of silicon nitride (SiN). The second light-transmitting layer can be prepared by inkjet printing.

[0153] Optionally, the thickness of the first light extraction layer 26 ranges from 10 nanometers to 1000 nanometers (exemplarily, the thickness of the first light extraction layer 26 ranges from 10 nanometers to 100 nanometers), the thickness of the first light-transmitting layer f1 and the third light-transmitting layer f3 ranges from 600 nanometers to 1200 nanometers, and the thickness of the second light-transmitting layer f2 ranges from 3 micrometers to 5 micrometers.

[0154] certainly, Figure 6 The display panel shown may also have an encapsulation layer f, for example, such as Figure 9 As shown, Figure 9This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application. The display panel further includes an encapsulation layer f, which comprises a first light extraction layer 26, a first planarization layer 27, and a first light-transmitting layer f1, a second light-transmitting layer f2, and a third light-transmitting layer f3 sequentially stacked on the first planarization layer 27. The refractive index of the first light-transmitting layer f1 is greater than that of the second light-transmitting layer f2, and the refractive index of the second light-transmitting layer f2 is less than that of the third light-transmitting layer f3. This creates a structure with alternating high-refractive-index and low-refractive-index materials, which can improve the front light extraction efficiency of the display panel. The encapsulation layer f can be a thin-film encapsulation (TFE) layer. The refractive index of the first light-transmitting layer f1 can be the same as or similar to that of the first planarization layer 27 to reduce the impact of light on the interface between the first light-transmitting layer f1 and the first planarization layer 27.

[0155] In this structure, the first light extraction layer 26 and the first planarization layer 27 are film layers in the encapsulation layer f.

[0156] Of course, the first light extraction layer 26 may not belong to the encapsulation layer f. For example, such as... Figure 10 As shown, Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application. The display panel further includes an encapsulation layer f, located on the side of the first light extraction layer 26 away from the substrate 21. The encapsulation layer f includes a first light-transmitting layer f1, a second light-transmitting layer f2, and a third light-transmitting layer f3 sequentially stacked along a direction away from the substrate 21. The refractive index of the first light-transmitting layer f1 is greater than that of the second light-transmitting layer f2 and the first light extraction layer 26, and the refractive index of the second light-transmitting layer f2 is less than that of the third light-transmitting layer f3. This encapsulation layer f can be a thin-film encapsulation layer. In this structure, the first light extraction layer 26 is a film layer independently disposed between the encapsulation layer f and the auxiliary electrode structure 24. The first light extraction layer 26 can be prepared by chemical vapor deposition or single-atom-layer deposition.

[0157] Optionally, the first light extraction layer 26 is made of silicon oxide (SiO), the first light-transmitting layer f1 is made of silicon oxynitride (SiON) or silicon nitride (SiN), the second light-transmitting layer is made of resin, and the third light-transmitting layer f3 is made of silicon nitride (SiN). The second light-transmitting layer can be prepared by inkjet printing (IJP) process.

[0158] Optionally, the thickness of the first light extraction layer 26 ranges from 10 nanometers to 1000 nanometers (exemplarily, the thickness of the first light extraction layer 26 ranges from 10 nanometers to 100 nanometers), the thickness of the first light-transmitting layer f1 and the third light-transmitting layer f3 ranges from 600 nanometers to 1200 nanometers, and the thickness of the second light-transmitting layer f2 ranges from 3 micrometers to 5 micrometers.

[0159] In the above embodiments, each display area includes one electroluminescent layer. However, in the display panel provided in this application, each display area may also include more electroluminescent layers. For example, Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 12 yes Figure 11 Top view of the display panel shown ( Figure 11 It can be Figure 12 (See the cross-sectional structural diagram at point AA). Please refer to... Figure 10 and Figure 11 The display area aa includes multiple light-emitting areas q1, each light-emitting area q1 includes multiple sub-light-emitting areas q11, and each sub-light-emitting area q11 has at least one electroluminescent layer 22. Figure 11 The diagram illustrates a structure where each light-emitting region q1 includes three sub-light-emitting regions q11, and each sub-light-emitting region q11 includes an electroluminescent layer 22. These three sub-light-emitting regions q11 can be red, green, and blue sub-light-emitting regions, respectively, and correspondingly, they can each have a blue electroluminescent layer B, a red electroluminescent layer R, and a green electroluminescent layer G. It should be noted that in the display panel shown in this embodiment, the light-emitting region can be a pixel region, and the sub-light-emitting regions can be sub-pixel regions. The structure in each sub-pixel region can constitute a sub-pixel, and the structure in each light-emitting region can constitute a pixel.

[0160] Furthermore, in this structure, the shape of the opening on the first auxiliary electrode sub-pattern 2421 surrounding the light-emitting region q1 can be determined by the arrangement shape of the electroluminescent layer in each light-emitting region, for example, as shown in... Figure 12 As shown, when the three electroluminescent layers 22 are arranged in a T-shape, the shape of the opening on the first auxiliary electrode sub-pattern 2421 can also be T-shaped, but this embodiment does not limit this.

[0161] Figure 11 as well as Figure 12 In the display panel shown, no auxiliary electrode pattern is set between the sub-light-emitting areas q11, which can improve the aperture ratio of the display panel.

[0162] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 14 yes Figure 13Top view of the display panel shown ( Figure 13 It can be Figure 14 (See the cross-sectional structural diagram at BB). Please refer to the diagram. Figure 13 and Figure 14 The auxiliary electrode pattern 242 further includes a second auxiliary electrode sub-pattern 2422 located between multiple sub-light-emitting regions q11. In the direction d1 perpendicular to the substrate 21, the thickness h1 of the second auxiliary electrode sub-pattern 2422 is greater than the thickness h2 of the electrode patterning structure 25. With this structure, a pit structure w can also be formed in each sub-light-emitting region q11 to improve the front-side light emission efficiency of the electroluminescent layer in each sub-light-emitting region q11. The second auxiliary electrode sub-pattern 2422 and the first auxiliary electrode sub-pattern 2421 can be co-layered structures formed in a single process, and their thicknesses can be the same. Alternatively, the second auxiliary electrode sub-pattern 2422 and the first auxiliary electrode sub-pattern 2421 can be non-co-layered structures formed in two separate processes, and their thicknesses can be the same or different. This embodiment does not impose any limitations on this.

[0163] akin, Figure 13 as well as Figure 14 In the display panel shown, the light-emitting area q1 includes multiple sub-light-emitting areas q11, and each sub-light-emitting area q11 has at least one electroluminescent layer 22. Figure 13 The diagram shows a structure in which each light-emitting region q1 includes three sub-light-emitting regions q11, and each sub-light-emitting region q11 includes an electroluminescent layer 22. These three sub-light-emitting regions q11 can be red sub-light-emitting regions, green sub-light-emitting regions, and blue sub-light-emitting regions, respectively, and can have blue electroluminescent layer B, red electroluminescent layer R, and green electroluminescent layer G, respectively.

[0164] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application, wherein the thickness of the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 in the direction d1 perpendicular to the substrate 21 is less than or equal to the thickness of the electrode patterning structure 25. This prevents the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 from overflowing onto the upper surface of the electrode patterning structure 25 and affecting the aperture ratio of the display panel during its formation; that is, this structure can improve the aperture ratio of the display panel.

[0165] In the above embodiments, the auxiliary electrode pattern is located above the auxiliary electrode layer, but the auxiliary electrode pattern can also be located below the auxiliary electrode layer. For example, please refer to... Figure 16 , Figure 16This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application, wherein the electrode patterning structure 25 is located on the side of the first electrode layer 23 away from the substrate 21. The auxiliary electrode pattern 242 is located in the area of ​​the auxiliary electrode layer 241 where the electrode patterning structure 25 is not provided. The auxiliary electrode layer 241 is located on the side of the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 away from the substrate 21.

[0166] In one exemplary embodiment, the first electrode layer 23, the electrode patterned structure 25, and the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 are configured to be formed by a vapor deposition process. The electrode patterned structure 25 can be formed by vapor deposition using a fine metal mask (FMM). The auxiliary electrode pattern 242 can be formed by vapor deposition using an open mask. The auxiliary electrode layer can be formed by a sputtering process.

[0167] Since the orientation of the substrate 21 during the vapor deposition process is different from that during the sputtering process, the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 can be placed below the auxiliary electrode layer 241. The first electrode layer 23, the electrode patterned structure 25 and the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 can be formed first by vapor deposition, and then the substrate can be flipped over and the auxiliary electrode layer 241 can be formed by sputtering. This can reduce the number of times the substrate is flipped and improve the manufacturing efficiency of the display panel.

[0168] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application. The display panel further includes a partition structure 28, which is located between at least two electroluminescent layers 22 among a plurality of electroluminescent layers. The orthographic projection of the partition structure 28 on the substrate 21 lies within the orthographic projection of the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 on the substrate 21. With this structure, when the first electrode layer 23 breaks under the action of the partition structure 28, the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 can connect with the portions of the first electrode layer 23 at the break, further improving the reliability of the display panel.

[0169] Figure 17 The diagram shows a structure with one electroluminescent layer in each light-emitting region q1, but each light-emitting region q1 can also have multiple electroluminescent structures, for example, such as Figure 18 As shown, Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application, wherein the light-emitting area q1 includes a plurality of sub-light-emitting areas q11, and each sub-light-emitting area q11 has at least one electroluminescent layer s10.

[0170] Additionally, between the first electrode layer 23 and the substrate 21, there may also be an anode s1, a first hole injection layer (HIL) and a first hole transport layer (HTL) s2, a first sub-electroluminescent layer s3, a second sub-electroluminescent layer s4, a first hole blocking layer (HBL) s5, a first electron transport layer (ETL) s6, a charge generation layer (CGL) s7, a second hole injection layer (HIL) and a second hole transport layer (HTL) s8, a third sub-electroluminescent layer s9, a fourth sub-electroluminescent layer s10, a second hole blocking layer (HBL) s11, a second electron transport layer (ETL) s12, and an electron injection layer (EIL) s13 sequentially stacked on the substrate.

[0171] The first sub-electroluminescent layer s3, the second sub-electroluminescent layer s4, the third sub-electroluminescent layer s9, and the fourth sub-electroluminescent layer s10 can be the electroluminescent layers in the above embodiments. For different sub-light-emitting regions q11, the first sub-electroluminescent layer s3, the second sub-electroluminescent layer s4, the third sub-electroluminescent layer s9, and the fourth sub-electroluminescent layer s10 can have different structures. For example, in the blue sub-light-emitting region for emitting blue light, the first sub-electroluminescent layer s3 can be an electron blocking layer, the second sub-electroluminescent layer s4 can be a blue electroluminescent material layer, the third sub-electroluminescent layer s9 can be an electron blocking layer, and the fourth sub-electroluminescent layer s10 can be a blue electroluminescent material layer; in the green sub-light-emitting region for emitting green light, the first sub-electroluminescent layer s3 can be a blue electroluminescent material layer. The light layer s3 can be a green optical cavity length compensation layer, the second sub-electroluminescent layer s4 can be a green electroluminescent material layer, the third sub-electroluminescent layer s9 can be a green optical cavity length compensation layer, and the fourth sub-electroluminescent layer s10 can be a green electroluminescent material layer; in the red sub-electroluminescent region used to emit red light, the first sub-electroluminescent layer s3 can be a red optical cavity length compensation layer, the second sub-electroluminescent layer s4 can be a red electroluminescent material layer, the third sub-electroluminescent layer s9 can be a red optical cavity length compensation layer, and the fourth sub-electroluminescent layer s10 can be a red electroluminescent material layer.

[0172] In addition, by Figure 18 It can be seen that the partition structure 28 in the pixel defining layer pdl has a portion of the first hole injection layer (HIL), the first hole transport layer (HTL) s2, the first hole blocking layer (HBL) s5, the first electron transport layer (ETL) s6, and the charge generation layer (CGL) s7. This portion of the film is separated from the first hole transport layer (HTL) s2, the first hole blocking layer (HBL) s5, the first electron transport layer (ETL) s6, and the charge generation layer (CGL) s7 on the upper side of the anode s1 under the action of the partition structure 28.

[0173] It should be noted that in some display panels provided in the above embodiments, the structure between the first electrode layer 23 and the substrate 21 can be referred to Figure 18 The embodiments of this application will not be described in detail here.

[0174] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application. The display panel further includes a lens array 291, which is located on the side of the light-transmitting electrode patterned structure 25 away from the substrate 21. The lens array 291 includes at least one lens structure t1 located in the light-emitting region q1.

[0175] The display panel also includes a second planarization layer 292, which is located between the lens array 291 and the first light extraction layer 26. The refractive index of the material of the second planarization layer 292 is lower than that of the material of the lens structure t1. Through this lens structure t1 and the second planarization layer 292, the front light extraction efficiency of the display panel can be improved. For example, the lens structure t1 can be a convex lens, causing light rays L to converge towards the center, thereby improving the front light extraction efficiency of the display panel.

[0176] An encapsulation layer f may also be disposed above the second planarization layer 292, that is, the lens array 291 is located in the encapsulation structure formed by the encapsulation layer f and the substrate 21. The structure of the encapsulation layer f can be referred to the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here. In addition, the second planarization layer 292 may also be part of the encapsulation layer f, and this application does not limit this.

[0177] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of another display panel structure provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 21 yes Figure 20 The diagram shows a top view of the display panel. Figure 20 It can be Figure 21 (See the cross-sectional structural diagram at CC). Please refer to... Figure 20 as well as Figure 21 The light-emitting region q1 includes multiple sub-light-emitting regions q11, and each sub-light-emitting region q11 has at least one electroluminescent layer 22.

[0178] The lens array 291 includes multiple lens structures t1 located in multiple sub-light-emitting regions q11. In this way, the light emitted by the electroluminescent layer 22 in each sub-light-emitting region can be adjusted by the lens structures t1 to improve the front light emission efficiency of the electroluminescent layer 22 in each sub-light-emitting region.

[0179] In this scheme, the auxiliary electrode layer 241 can be located on the side of the first electrode layer 23 away from the substrate 21 (the auxiliary electrode layer 241 can be in contact with the first electrode layer 23), the electrode patterning structure 25 is located on the side of the auxiliary electrode layer 241 away from the substrate 21, the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 is located in the area of ​​the auxiliary electrode layer 241 where the electrode patterning structure 25 is not provided, and the lens structure t1 is located on the side of the electrode patterning structure 25 away from the substrate 21.

[0180] In one exemplary embodiment, the display panel further includes a spacer layer 293 located on the side of the electrode patterned structure 25 away from the substrate 21, and a lens structure t1 located on the side of the spacer layer 293 away from the substrate 21. The material of the spacer layer 293 may include a hydrophobic material. Because the electrode patterned structure 25 has certain material selectivity characteristics, the spacer layer 293 can be formed on the electrode patterned structure 25, and the lens structure t1 can be formed on the spacer layer 293, thus reducing the difficulty of forming the lens structure t1.

[0181] Optionally, the light-emitting region q1 includes a plurality of sub-light-emitting regions q11, each sub-light-emitting region q1 having at least one electroluminescent layer 22.

[0182] In one exemplary embodiment, the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 includes a first auxiliary electrode sub-pattern 2421 surrounding the light-emitting region q1, and a second auxiliary electrode sub-pattern 2422 located between multiple sub-light-emitting regions q11. In a direction d1 perpendicular to the substrate 21, the thickness h1 of the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 is greater than the thickness h2 of the electrode patterning structure 25. With this structure, a recessed structure can be formed in each sub-light-emitting region q11 within the light-emitting region, and the lens structure t1 can be located within this recessed structure. Alternatively, the thickness h1 of the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 can be the same as the thickness h2 of the electrode patterning structure 25, and the lens structure t1 can cover both the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 and the electrode patterning structure 25.

[0183] It should be noted that the above embodiments provide multiple light-emitting areas and structures in sub-light-emitting areas. The display panel provided in this application embodiment may include multiple light-emitting areas, and the structures in these multiple light-emitting areas may be at least one of the structures provided in the above embodiments.

[0184] The display panel provided in this application embodiment improves the front light emission efficiency, thereby reducing power consumption while providing a good display effect. In addition, the auxiliary electrode structure in the display panel reduces the possibility of damage when the display panel is bent, thus improving the flexibility of the display panel. This allows the display panel provided in this application embodiment to be used in various display devices, such as laptops, automotive displays, smartphones, and smart wearable devices.

[0185] In summary, the display panel provided in this application embodiment, by setting an auxiliary electrode structure including an auxiliary electrode layer and an auxiliary electrode pattern on the first electrode layer, and having the auxiliary electrode layer or auxiliary electrode pattern in contact with the first electrode layer, can protect the first electrode layer and reduce the possibility of breakage. On the other hand, it can ensure that the fracture point can be electrically connected to the auxiliary electrode structure when the first electrode layer breaks, thus preventing damage to the electrical function of the first electrode layer. This solves the problem of low yield of display panels in related technologies and achieves the effect of improving the yield of display panels.

[0186] In addition, a first light extraction layer is provided above the auxiliary electrode structure and the light-transmitting electrode patterned structure. The refractive index of the first light extraction layer is less than that of the auxiliary electrode structure and the light-transmitting electrode patterned structure. In this way, the light extraction function can be achieved by the first light extraction layer, the auxiliary electrode structure and the light-transmitting electrode patterned structure working together, thereby improving the light emission efficiency of the front of the display panel. In this way, the auxiliary electrode structure and the light-transmitting electrode patterned structure are reused as part of the light extraction structure, reducing the impact of the auxiliary electrode structure and the light-transmitting electrode patterned structure on the display panel.

[0187] Figure 22 yes Figure 4 Another cross-sectional view of the display panel shown ( Figure 22 yes Figure 4 (Another cross-sectional view at DD) Please refer to Figure 22 as well as Figure 4 This application embodiment also provides a display panel, the display panel including:

[0188] The substrate 21 includes a display area aa and a peripheral area pa surrounding the display area aa. The display area aa includes multiple light-emitting areas q1, and each light-emitting area q1 includes multiple sub-light-emitting areas q11.

[0189] Multiple electroluminescent layers 22 are located on the substrate 21.

[0190] The first electrode layer 23 is located on the side of the plurality of electroluminescent layers 22 away from the substrate 21.

[0191] The auxiliary electrode structure 24 and the light-transmitting electrode patterned structure 25 are located on the side of the first electrode layer 23 away from the substrate 21. The auxiliary electrode structure 24 includes a stacked auxiliary electrode layer 241 and an auxiliary electrode pattern 242. One of the auxiliary electrode layer 241 and the auxiliary electrode pattern 242 is in contact with the first electrode layer 23. The auxiliary electrode pattern 242 includes a plurality of auxiliary electrode openings k3. At least one of the plurality of auxiliary electrode openings k3 is at least partially located in the sub-light-emitting region q11 in the orthogonal projection of the substrate 21. The electrode patterned structure 25 includes a plurality of electrode patterned substructures 251, which are located in the auxiliary electrode openings k3.

[0192] In summary, the display panel provided in this application embodiment, by setting an auxiliary electrode structure including an auxiliary electrode layer and an auxiliary electrode pattern on the first electrode layer, and having the auxiliary electrode layer or auxiliary electrode pattern in contact with the first electrode layer, can protect the first electrode layer and reduce the possibility of breakage. On the other hand, it can ensure that the fracture point can be electrically connected to the auxiliary electrode structure when the first electrode layer breaks, thus preventing damage to the electrical function of the first electrode layer. This solves the problem of low yield of display panels in related technologies and achieves the effect of improving the yield of display panels.

[0193] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this application, a display device is provided, the display device including any of the display panels provided in the above embodiments.

[0194] By improving the front light emission efficiency, a good display effect can be provided while reducing power consumption. In addition, the auxiliary electrode structure in the display panel reduces the possibility of damage when the display panel is bent, thus improving the flexibility of the display panel. This allows the display panel provided in this application embodiment to be used in various display devices, such as laptops, automotive displays, smartphones, and smart wearable devices.

[0195] Figure 23 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a display panel according to an embodiment of this application. The method includes:

[0196] Step 201: Form a pixel circuit layer on a substrate. The substrate includes a display area and a peripheral area surrounding the display area. The pixel circuit layer is located in the display area.

[0197] Step 202: A pixel defining layer is formed on the side of the pixel circuit layer away from the substrate. The pixel defining layer includes multiple pixel openings.

[0198] Step 203: Form multiple electroluminescent layers in multiple pixel openings.

[0199] Step 204: Form a first electrode layer on the side of the plurality of electroluminescent layers away from the substrate.

[0200] Step 205: An auxiliary electrode structure and a light-transmitting electrode patterning structure are formed on the side of the first electrode layer away from the substrate.

[0201] The auxiliary electrode structure includes an auxiliary electrode layer and an auxiliary electrode pattern. One of the structures in the auxiliary electrode layer and the auxiliary electrode pattern is in contact with the first electrode layer. The orthographic projection of the electrode patterned structure on the substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of at least one pixel opening among the multiple pixel openings on the substrate. The orthographic projection of the auxiliary electrode pattern on the substrate and the orthographic projection of the electrode patterned structure on the substrate do not overlap.

[0202] In summary, the display panel provided in this application embodiment, by setting an auxiliary electrode structure including an auxiliary electrode layer and an auxiliary electrode pattern on the first electrode layer, and having the auxiliary electrode layer or auxiliary electrode pattern in contact with the first electrode layer, can protect the first electrode layer and reduce the possibility of breakage. On the other hand, it can ensure that the fracture point can be electrically connected to the auxiliary electrode structure when the first electrode layer breaks, thus preventing damage to the electrical function of the first electrode layer. This solves the problem of low yield of display panels in related technologies and achieves the effect of improving the yield of display panels.

[0203] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0204] A first light extraction layer is formed on a substrate having an auxiliary electrode structure and a light-transmitting electrode patterned structure. The refractive index of the first light extraction layer is less than that of the auxiliary electrode structure and the light-transmitting electrode patterned structure.

[0205] like Figure 24 As shown, Figure 24 yes Figure 23 The flowchart shown in the embodiment illustrates the formation of an auxiliary electrode structure and a light-transmitting electrode patterning structure.

[0206] Step 205 includes:

[0207] Sub-step 2051: An auxiliary electrode layer is formed on the side of the first electrode layer away from the substrate.

[0208] The auxiliary electrode layer can be formed by a sputtering process. Furthermore, the material of the auxiliary electrode layer 241 includes a transparent conductive oxide. Since the auxiliary electrode layer is a monolithic structure, it can be manufactured using a highly transparent conductive oxide, such as indium zinc oxide (IZO). Such transparent conductive oxides have certain water and oxygen barrier properties, thus improving the durability of the display panel. To reduce the possibility of breakage of the first electrode layer, the auxiliary electrode layer can be relatively thick; for example, its thickness can range from 50 nanometers to 1000 nanometers. The first electrode layer can be a cathode layer, and the auxiliary electrode layer can be an auxiliary cathode layer.

[0209] Sub-step 2032: Form an electrode patterning structure on the side of the auxiliary electrode layer away from the substrate.

[0210] The electrode patterning structure can be a structure used to form an auxiliary electrode pattern. The electrode patterning structure can be made of a material that selectively deposits the material of the auxiliary electrode pattern. That is, the material of the auxiliary electrode pattern is difficult to deposit on the electrode patterning structure. Therefore, when the electrode patterning structure is set, the auxiliary electrode pattern will only be formed in the area where the electrode patterning structure is not set.

[0211] The electrode patterning structure has a thickness of 5 nanometers to 100 nanometers, or a thickness of 15 nanometers to 100 nanometers, to enhance its ability to prevent magnesium and silver from forming films on its surface. The structure of this electrode patterning structure can be referenced above. Figure 5 .

[0212] Sub-step 2033: Form an auxiliary electrode pattern in the area on the auxiliary electrode layer where no electrode patterned structure has been formed.

[0213] Because an electrode patterning structure is formed, the auxiliary electrode pattern is only formed in areas where no electrode patterning structure is provided. The orthographic projection of the auxiliary electrode pattern onto the substrate at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the pixel defining layer onto the substrate. The structure of this auxiliary electrode pattern can be referred to the above. Figure 5 .

[0214] like Figure 25 As shown, Figure 25 yes Figure 23 The flowchart of another embodiment for forming an auxiliary electrode structure and a light-transmitting electrode patterning structure is shown.

[0215] Step 203 includes:

[0216] Sub-step 2034: Form an electrode patterned structure on the side of the first electrode layer away from the substrate by means of a vapor deposition process.

[0217] Optionally, prior to this step, step 202 may include forming a first electrode layer on the side of the plurality of electroluminescent layers away from the substrate using a vapor deposition process; that is, both the first electrode layer and the electrode patterning structure are formed by a vapor deposition process. Specifically, the electrode patterning structure can be formed by vapor deposition using a fine metal mask (FMM). The structure of the electrode patterning structure can be referred to in the above embodiments. Figure 16 .

[0218] In this method, both the first electrode layer and the electrode patterning structure can be formed by vapor deposition without flipping the substrate, which simplifies the manufacturing process of the display panel and improves the manufacturing efficiency of the display panel.

[0219] Sub-step 2035: An auxiliary electrode pattern is formed in the area on the first electrode layer where no electrode patterned structure has been formed by the vapor deposition process.

[0220] The auxiliary electrode pattern can also be formed by vapor deposition. Optionally, the auxiliary electrode pattern can be formed by vapor deposition using an open mask. The structure of the auxiliary electrode pattern can be referred to in the above embodiments. Figure 16 .

[0221] Sub-step 2036: An auxiliary electrode layer is formed on the side of the auxiliary electrode pattern away from the substrate by a sputtering process.

[0222] The auxiliary electrode layer can be formed by a sputtering process. During the sputtering process, the orientation of the substrate and the evaporation process are different, so the substrate can be flipped in sub-step 2036, and the auxiliary electrode layer can be formed on the substrate with the auxiliary electrode pattern by the sputtering process.

[0223] In the methods provided in this application, the structures of the various display panels involved can also be referred to the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0224] In this application, the term "at least one of A and B" merely describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, "at least one of A and B" can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Similarly, "at least one of A, B, and C" indicates that seven relationships can exist, representing: A existing alone, B existing alone, C existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, A and C existing simultaneously, C and B existing simultaneously, and A, B, and C existing simultaneously. Likewise, "at least one of A, B, C, and D" indicates that fifteen relationships can exist, representing: A existing alone, B existing alone, C existing alone, D existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, A and C existing simultaneously, A and D existing simultaneously, C and B existing simultaneously, D and B existing simultaneously, C and D existing simultaneously, A, B, and C existing simultaneously, A, B, and D existing simultaneously, A, C, and D existing simultaneously, and A, B, C, and D existing simultaneously.

[0225] It should be noted that the dimensions of layers and regions may be exaggerated in the accompanying drawings for clarity. Furthermore, it is understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on" another element or layer, it can be directly on the other element, or there may be intermediate layers. Additionally, it is understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "below" another element or layer, it can be directly below the other element, or there may be more than one intermediate layer or element. Furthermore, it is also understood that when a layer or element is referred to as being "between" two layers or two elements, it can be the only layer between the two layers or two elements, or there may be more than one intermediate layer or element. Similar reference numerals throughout indicate similar elements.

[0226] In this application, the terms "first," "second," "third," and "fourth" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. The term "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise expressly defined.

[0227] The above description is merely an optional embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A display panel, characterized in that, The display panel includes: A substrate, the substrate including a display area and a peripheral area surrounding the display area; A pixel circuit layer is located on one side of the substrate and in the display area; A pixel defining layer is located on the side of the pixel circuit layer away from the substrate and includes a plurality of pixel openings; Multiple electroluminescent layers, wherein the multiple electroluminescent layers are located in the multiple pixel openings; A first electrode layer is located on the side of the plurality of electroluminescent layers away from the substrate. An auxiliary electrode structure and a light-transmitting electrode patterned structure are provided. The auxiliary electrode structure and the electrode patterned structure are located on the side of the first electrode layer away from the substrate. The auxiliary electrode structure includes an auxiliary electrode layer and an auxiliary electrode pattern. One of the structures in the auxiliary electrode layer and the auxiliary electrode pattern is in contact with the first electrode layer. The orthographic projection of the electrode patterned structure on the substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of at least one of the plurality of pixel openings on the substrate. The orthographic projection of the auxiliary electrode pattern on the substrate and the orthographic projection of the electrode patterned structure on the substrate do not overlap. The auxiliary electrode pattern includes a first auxiliary electrode sub-pattern that at least partially surrounds the pixel opening. In the direction perpendicular to the substrate, the thickness of the first auxiliary electrode sub-pattern is greater than the thickness of the electrode patterned structure. A first light extraction layer and a first planarization layer, wherein the first light extraction layer is located on the side of the auxiliary electrode structure and the light-transmitting electrode patterned structure away from the substrate, and the first planarization layer is located on the side of the first light extraction layer away from the substrate, and the refractive index of the first planarization layer is greater than the refractive index of the first light extraction layer.

2. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The refractive index of the first light extraction layer is less than that of the auxiliary electrode structure and the light-transmitting electrode patterned structure.

3. The display panel according to claim 2, characterized in that, The auxiliary electrode layer is located on the side of the first electrode layer away from the substrate. The electrode patterning structure is located on the side of the auxiliary electrode layer away from the substrate. The auxiliary electrode pattern is located in a region on the auxiliary electrode layer where the electrode patterning structure is not provided, and the orthographic projection of the auxiliary electrode pattern on the substrate at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the pixel defining layer on the substrate.

4. The display panel according to claim 3, characterized in that, The display area includes multiple light-emitting areas, each light-emitting area includes multiple sub-light-emitting areas, and each sub-light-emitting area has at least one electroluminescent layer; The auxiliary electrode pattern also includes a second auxiliary electrode sub-pattern located between the plurality of sub-light-emitting regions, wherein the thickness of the second auxiliary electrode sub-pattern is greater than the thickness of the electrode patterning structure in the direction perpendicular to the substrate.

5. The display panel according to claim 4, characterized in that, In the direction perpendicular to the substrate, the sum of the thickness of the electrode patterned structure and the thickness of the first light extraction layer is less than the thickness of the auxiliary electrode pattern.

6. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrode patterning structure is located on the side of the first electrode layer away from the substrate. The auxiliary electrode pattern is located in the area on the auxiliary electrode layer where the electrode patterning structure is not provided; The auxiliary electrode layer is located on the side of the auxiliary electrode pattern away from the substrate.

7. The display panel according to claim 6, characterized in that, The pixel defining layer includes a partition structure located between at least two of the plurality of electroluminescent layers; The orthographic projection of the partition structure on the substrate lies within the orthographic projection of the auxiliary electrode pattern on the substrate.

8. The display panel according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first electrode layer, the electrode patterning structure, and the auxiliary electrode pattern are configured to be formed by a vapor deposition process.

9. The display panel according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The display panel further includes an encapsulation layer, which includes a first light extraction layer and a first light-transmitting layer, a second light-transmitting layer, and a third light-transmitting layer stacked sequentially on the first light extraction layer. The refractive index of the first light-transmitting layer is greater than that of the second light-transmitting layer and the first light extraction layer, and the refractive index of the second light-transmitting layer is less than that of the third light-transmitting layer.

10. The display panel according to claim 9, characterized in that, The material of the first light extraction layer includes silicon oxide, the material of the first light-transmitting layer includes silicon oxynitride or silicon nitride, the material of the second light-transmitting layer includes a resin material, and the material of the third light-transmitting layer includes silicon nitride. The auxiliary electrode layer is made of a transparent conductive oxide, and the auxiliary electrode pattern is made of a conductive metal material.

11. The display panel according to claim 10, characterized in that, The thickness of the first light extraction layer ranges from 10 nanometers to 1000 nanometers, the thickness of the first light-transmitting layer and the third light-transmitting layer ranges from 600 nanometers to 1200 nanometers, and the thickness of the second light-transmitting layer ranges from 3 micrometers to 5 micrometers. The thickness of the auxiliary electrode layer ranges from 50 nanometers to 1000 nanometers, and the thickness of the electrode patterned structure ranges from 5 nanometers to 100 nanometers.

12. A display panel, characterized in that, The display panel includes: A substrate, the substrate including a display area and a peripheral area surrounding the display area; A pixel circuit layer is located on one side of the substrate and in the display area; A pixel defining layer is located on the side of the pixel circuit layer away from the substrate and includes a plurality of pixel openings; Multiple electroluminescent layers, wherein the multiple electroluminescent layers are located in the multiple pixel openings; A first electrode layer is located on the side of the plurality of electroluminescent layers away from the substrate. An auxiliary electrode structure and a light-transmitting electrode patterned structure are provided. The auxiliary electrode structure and the electrode patterned structure are located on the side of the first electrode layer away from the substrate. The auxiliary electrode structure includes an auxiliary electrode layer and an auxiliary electrode pattern. One of the structures in the auxiliary electrode layer and the auxiliary electrode pattern is in contact with the first electrode layer. The orthographic projection of the electrode patterned structure on the substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of at least one of the plurality of pixel openings on the substrate. The orthographic projections of the auxiliary electrode pattern and the electrode patterned structure on the substrate do not overlap. In the direction perpendicular to the substrate, the thickness of the auxiliary electrode pattern is greater than the thickness of the electrode patterned structure. A lens array located on the side of the electrode patterning structure away from the substrate, the lens array including at least one lens structure located in the display area; The second planarization layer is located on the side of the lens array away from the substrate, and the refractive index of the material of the second planarization layer is less than the refractive index of the material of the lens structure. The lens structure is located on the side of the electrode patterning structure away from the substrate.

13. The display panel according to claim 12, characterized in that, The display area includes multiple light-emitting areas, each light-emitting area includes multiple sub-light-emitting areas, and each sub-light-emitting area has at least one electroluminescent layer; The lens array includes multiple lens structures located in the multiple sub-light-emitting regions.

14. The display panel according to claim 12, characterized in that, The auxiliary electrode layer is located on the side of the first electrode layer away from the substrate, the electrode patterning structure is located on the side of the auxiliary electrode layer away from the substrate, and the auxiliary electrode pattern is located in the area of ​​the auxiliary electrode layer where the electrode patterning structure is not provided.

15. The display panel according to claim 14, characterized in that, The display area includes multiple light-emitting areas, each light-emitting area includes multiple sub-light-emitting areas, and each sub-light-emitting area has at least one electroluminescent layer; The auxiliary electrode pattern includes a first auxiliary electrode sub-pattern surrounding the light-emitting area, and a second auxiliary electrode sub-pattern located between the plurality of sub-light-emitting areas.

16. The display panel according to claim 15, characterized in that, The display panel further includes a spacer layer located on the side of the electrode patterning structure away from the substrate, and the lens structure located on the side of the spacer layer away from the substrate.

17. The display panel according to any one of claims 12 to 16, characterized in that, The display panel further includes an encapsulation layer, which includes a first light-transmitting layer, a second light-transmitting layer, and a third light-transmitting layer stacked sequentially. The refractive index of the first light-transmitting layer is greater than that of the second light-transmitting layer, and the refractive index of the second light-transmitting layer is less than that of the third light-transmitting layer.

18. The display panel according to claim 17, characterized in that, The material of the first light-transmitting layer includes silicon oxynitride or silicon nitride, the material of the second light-transmitting layer includes resin material, and the material of the third light-transmitting layer includes silicon nitride; The auxiliary electrode layer is made of a transparent conductive oxide, and the auxiliary electrode pattern is made of a conductive metal material.

19. The display panel according to claim 18, characterized in that, The thickness of the first and third light-transmitting layers ranges from 600 nanometers to 1200 nanometers, and the thickness of the second light-transmitting layer ranges from 3 micrometers to 5 micrometers. The thickness of the auxiliary electrode layer ranges from 50 nanometers to 1000 nanometers, and the thickness of the electrode patterned structure ranges from 5 nanometers to 100 nanometers.

20. A display device, characterized in that, The display device includes the display panel as described in any one of claims 1 to 19.

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