Display device

Abstract

A display device is provided, the display device comprising: a substrate having at least two transmissive regions and a non-transmissive region disposed between the at least two transmissive regions; a sub-pixel in the non-transmissive region, the sub-pixel including a first electrode, a light-emitting layer and a second electrode; at least two spacers, each of the at least two spacers being located in a corresponding transmissive region of the at least two transmissive regions; and at least two organic patterns located on the upper surface of the corresponding spacer of the at least two spacers.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a display device. Background Technology

[0002] A display device has been designed to enable various applications by embedding a camera within it to link the display area to the camera.

[0003] In this type of display device, the camera can be positioned below the display panel. This allows the display device with the camera embedded to avoid displaying images in the area overlapping with the camera, and in this case, the image displayed on the display device can be disconnected and recognized by the user.

[0004] To address this issue, recent research has focused on display panels, where the display area for displaying images includes a transmissive area that can transmit external light and a non-transmissive area, with the transmissive area having high light transmittance. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure is made in view of the above problems, and the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a display device having high light transmittance in the display area.

[0006] Another object of this disclosure is to provide a display device in which the protective film can be safely removed during the manufacturing process without damaging the display panel.

[0007] In addition to the purposes of this disclosure as stated above, other purposes and features of this disclosure will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

[0008] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the above and other objectives can be achieved by providing a display device comprising: a substrate having at least two transmissive regions and a non-transmissive region disposed between the at least two transmissive regions; a sub-pixel in the non-transmissive region, the sub-pixel including a first electrode, a light-emitting layer, and a second electrode; at least two spacers, each of the at least two spacers being located in a corresponding transmissive region of the at least two transmissive regions; and at least two organic patterns located on the upper surface of the corresponding spacer of the at least two spacers. Attached Figure Description

[0009] The above and other objects, features and advantages of this disclosure will become clearer from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0010] Figure 1 This is a schematic plan view illustrating a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0011] Figure 2It is shown Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing an example of pixels provided in region A;

[0012] Figure 3 It shows along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary structure of line I-I';

[0013] Figure 4 This is an exemplary view illustrating the organic patterned material exposed to light and the organic patterned material not exposed to light;

[0014] Figure 5 This is a view showing an example of metal patterning using organic patterning materials;

[0015] Figure 6A It is a view showing modified shapes of multiple organic patterns;

[0016] Figure 6B This is a view showing another modified shape of multiple organic patterns;

[0017] Figure 7 This is a view showing an example of the encapsulation layer separating from the organic pattern when the protective film is removed;

[0018] Figure 8 It shows along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of another exemplary structure of line I-I';

[0019] Figure 9 It means along Figure 2 Cross-sectional views of other exemplary structures of line I-I';

[0020] Figure 10 This is a schematic plan view illustrating a display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0021] Figure 11 This is an exploded view illustrating a display device according to other exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The advantages and features of this disclosure, and its implementation methods, will be illustrated by the following description of embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this disclosure may be implemented in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to make this disclosure thorough and complete, and to fully convey the scope of this disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0023] The shapes, dimensions, scales, angles, and quantities disclosed in the drawings used to describe embodiments of this disclosure are merely examples, and therefore, this disclosure is not limited to the details shown. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals denote the same elements. In the following description, detailed descriptions that determine relevant known functions or configurations will be omitted where such descriptions unnecessarily obscure the essential points of this disclosure. Where terms such as “comprising,” “having,” and “including” are used in this specification, additional terms may be added unless “only” is used. Singular terms may include plural forms unless otherwise stated.

[0024] When constructing an element, it is interpreted to include a range of errors, although this is not explicitly described.

[0025] When describing positional relationships, such as when the positional relationship is described as "above", "over", "below", and "next to", one or more parts may be arranged between two other parts, unless "only" or "directly" is used.

[0026] It should be understood that although the terms "first," "second," etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element.

[0027] In describing the elements of this disclosure, the terms “first,” “second,” etc., may be used. These terms are intended to identify corresponding elements from other elements, and the basis, order, or number of corresponding elements is not limited by these terms. The expression that an element is “connected” or “linked” to another element should be understood to mean that the element can be directly connected or linked to another element, unless specifically mentioned, or a third element can be inserted between the corresponding elements.

[0028] Features of the various embodiments of this disclosure may be partially or entirely linked or combined with each other, and may be interoperable with each other differently and technically driven, as will be fully understood by those skilled in the art. Embodiments of this disclosure may be performed independently of each other, or may be performed together in an interdependent relationship.

[0029] Figure 1 This is a schematic plan view illustrating a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Hereinafter, the X-axis represents the line parallel to the scan line, the Y-axis represents the line parallel to the data line, and the Z-axis represents the height direction of the transparent display device 100.

[0031] Although the transparent display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure has been described as an organic light-emitting display device, the transparent display device 100 may also be implemented as a liquid crystal display device, a plasma display panel (PDP), a quantum dot light-emitting display (QLED) or an electrophoretic display device.

[0032] Reference Figure 1 A display device 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a display panel 110. The display panel 110 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can be classified into a display area DA in which pixels are provided for displaying images and a non-display area NDA in which no images are displayed.

[0033] The display area DA may include scan lines, data lines, and pixels P, while the non-display area NDA may include a pad area PA in which pads are provided and at least one gating driver 205.

[0034] Data lines may extend in the display area DA along a first direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction). Scan lines may extend in the display area DA in a second direction (e.g., the X-axis direction) and may intersect with the data lines. Pixel P includes a plurality of sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3, and is disposed in the intersection region where the data lines and scan lines intersect to emit predetermined light, thereby displaying an image.

[0035] The strobe driver 205 is connected to the scan line to provide a scan signal. The strobe driver 205 can be located in the non-display area NDA outside the display area DA on one or both sides of the display area DA of the display panel 110, either using the in-panel strobe driver (GIP) method or the tape auto-joining (TAB) method.

[0036] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the pixels set in region A. Figure 3 It shows along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary structure of line I-I'. Figure 4 This is an exemplary view showing organic patterned materials exposed to light and organic patterned materials not exposed to light. Figure 5 This is a view showing an example of metal patterning using organic patterning materials. Figure 6A This is a view showing modified shapes of multiple organic patterns. Figure 6B This is a view showing another modified shape of multiple organic patterns. Figure 7 This is a view illustrating an example of the encapsulation layer separating from the organic pattern when the protective film is removed. Figure 8 It shows along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of another exemplary structure of line I-I'. Figure 9 It shows along Figure 2Cross-sectional views of other exemplary structures of line I-I'.

[0037] Reference Figures 2 to 9 The display area DA includes a transmissive area TA and a non-transmissive area NTA. The transmissive area TA is the region through which most external incident light passes, while the non-transmissive area NTA is the region through which most external incident light cannot pass. For example, the transmissive area TA can be an area with a transmittance greater than α% (e.g., about 90%), and the non-transmissive area NTA can be an area with a transmittance less than β% (e.g., about 50%). In this case, α is greater than β. Due to the transmissive area TA, the user can view objects or backgrounds arranged on the rear surface of the display panel 110.

[0038] The non-transmissive region NTA can be located between the transmissive regions TA and includes multiple pixels P. Pixel P can be located in the area where data lines and scan lines intersect and emits predetermined light to display an image. The emitting region EA can correspond to the area in pixel P from which light is emitted.

[0039] Each pixel P may include at least one of a first sub-pixel SP1, a second sub-pixel SP2, and a third sub-pixel SP3. The first sub-pixel SP1 may include a first light-emitting region EA1 that emits light of a first color. The second sub-pixel SP2 may include a second light-emitting region EA2 that emits light of a second color. The third sub-pixel SP3 may include a third light-emitting region EA3 that emits light of a third color. In a display panel 110 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, each pixel P may further include a fourth sub-pixel that includes a fourth light-emitting region that emits light of a fourth color.

[0040] The first emitting region EA1, the second emitting region EA2, the third emitting region EA3, and the fourth emitting region can emit light of different colors. For example, the first emitting region EA1 can emit green light. The second emitting region EA2 can emit red light. The third emitting region EA3 can emit blue light. The fourth emitting region can emit white light. However, the emitting regions are not limited to this example. Two of the first emitting regions EA1, the second emitting region EA2, the third emitting region EA3, and the fourth emitting region can emit light of the same color. For example, the first emitting region EA1 and the fourth emitting region can emit green light. Furthermore, the arrangement order of sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3 can be changed in various ways.

[0041] Circuit elements, including capacitors, thin-film transistors, and light-emitting elements, can be disposed in each of the first sub-pixel SP1, the second sub-pixel SP2, and the third sub-pixel SP3. The thin-film transistors may include switching transistors, sensing transistors, and driving transistors T.

[0042] The switching transistor can be switched according to the scan signal provided to the scan line to charge the capacitor from the data voltage provided by the data line. The sensing transistor can sense the threshold voltage deviation of the driving transistor T, which can lead to a deterioration in image quality.

[0043] The driving transistor T is switched according to the data voltage charged in the capacitor to generate a data current from the power supply provided by the pixel power line, thereby providing the data current to the first electrode 120 of sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3. The driving transistor T may include an active layer ACT, a gate GE, a source SE, and a drain DE.

[0044] Specifically, a light-shielding layer LS can be disposed on the first substrate 111. The light-shielding layer LS is used to shield external light incident on the active layer ACT in the region where the driving transistor T is disposed. The light-shielding layer LS can be formed as a single layer or multiple layers made of any one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu) or alloys thereof.

[0045] A buffer layer BF can be disposed on the optical shielding layer LS. The buffer layer BF is used to protect the transistor T from water penetration through the first substrate 111 which is susceptible to moisture penetration, and the buffer layer BF can be formed of an inorganic layer, such as a silicon oxide layer (SiOx), a silicon nitride layer (SiNx), or a multilayer of SiOx and SiNx.

[0046] An active layer ACT can be formed on the buffer layer BF. The active layer ACT can be formed from silicon-based semiconductor materials or oxide-based semiconductor materials.

[0047] A gate insulating layer GI can be disposed on the active layer ACT. The gate insulating layer G1 can be formed of an inorganic layer, such as a silicon oxide layer (SiOx), a silicon nitride layer (SiNx), or a multilayer of SiOx and SiNx.

[0048] The gate GE can be disposed on the gate insulating layer GI. The gate GE may include a single layer or multiple layers of at least one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd) and copper (Cu) or alloys thereof.

[0049] An interlayer dielectric layer (ILD) can be formed on the gate (GE). The ILD can be formed from inorganic layers, such as silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), or multiple layers of SiOx and SiNx.

[0050] A source (SE) and a drain (DE) can be disposed on the interlayer dielectric layer (ILD). One of the source (SE) and drain (DE) can be connected to the active layer (ACT) through a first contact hole (CH1) passing through the gate insulating layer (GI) and the interlayer dielectric layer (ILD). The source (SE) and drain (DE) can be formed as a single layer or multiple layers of at least one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu) or alloys thereof.

[0051] A planarization layer PLN can be provided on the source (SE) and drain (DE) to planarize the step difference caused by the driving transistor (T). The planarization layer PLN can be formed from an organic layer such as acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin, and polyimide resin.

[0052] A light-emitting element, including a first electrode 120, an organic light-emitting layer 130, and a second electrode 140, a dam 122, a plurality of spacers 124, and a plurality of organic patterns 145 can be disposed on the planarization layer PLN.

[0053] A first electrode 120 can be provided on the planarization layer PLN for each sub-pixel SP1, SP2, and SP3. The first electrode 120 can be connected to the driving transistor T. Specifically, the first electrode 120 can be connected to one of the source SE and drain DE of the driving transistor T through a second contact hole CH2 passing through the planarization layer PLN.

[0054] The first electrode 120 can be formed of a metallic material with high reflectivity, such as a stacked structure of aluminum and titanium (Ti / Al / Ti), a stacked structure of aluminum and ITO (ITO / Al / ITO), an Ag alloy, a stacked structure of Ag alloy and ITO (ITO / Ag alloy / ITO), a MoTi alloy, and a stacked structure of MoTi alloy and ITO (ITO / MOTI alloy / ITO). The Ag alloy can be an alloy of silver (Ag), palladium (Pd), copper (Cu), etc. The MoTi alloy can be an alloy of molybdenum (Mo) and titanium (Ti). The first electrode 120 can be an anode.

[0055] A dam 122 can be provided between sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3 on the planarization layer PLN. At least a portion of the dam 122 can overlap with multiple transmissive regions TA. Another portion of the dam 122 can overlap with non-transmissive regions NTA. The dam 122 can be formed to at least partially cover the edge of the first electrode 120 and expose a portion of the first electrode 120. Therefore, the dam 122 can prevent the luminous efficiency from deteriorating due to current concentration at the end of the first electrode 120.

[0056] The dam 122 can define the light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, and EA3 of sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3. The light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, and EA3 of each sub-pixel SP1, SP2, and SP3 represent regions where the first electrode 120, the light-emitting layer 130, and the second electrode 140 are stacked sequentially, and holes from the first electrode 120 and electrons from the second electrode 140 recombine with each other in the light-emitting layer 130 to emit light. In this case, the region where the dam 122 is provided can become a non-light-emitting region NEA because no light is emitted from it, and the region where the dam 122 is not provided and the first electrode 120 is exposed can become a light-emitting region EA.

[0057] The embankment 122 may include an organic layer such as acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin and polyimide resin.

[0058] Multiple spacers 124 may be configured to be spaced apart from each other on the embankment 122. Each of the multiple spacers 124 may be disposed in each of the multiple transmission regions TA, and may have an inverted conical structure with an upper surface wider than a lower surface. Each of the multiple spacers 124 may have a first width W1 of the upper surface, which is greater than a second width W2 of the lower surface. Therefore, a portion of the upper surface of the embankment 122 disposed in the region overlapping with the multiple spacers 124 may be exposed below the upper surface of each of the multiple spacers 124.

[0059] The plurality of spacers 124 may include organic layers such as acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin and polyimide resin.

[0060] Multiple organic patterns 145 may be disposed on the upper surface of each of the multiple spacers 124. Each of the multiple organic patterns 145 may have the same shape as the upper surface of each of the multiple spacers 124. For example, the upper surface of each of the multiple spacers 124 may have a shape such as... Figure 2 The cross shape is shown. Each of the plurality of organic patterns 145 can be formed on the upper surface of each of the plurality of spacers 124 with the same cross shape as the upper surface of each of the plurality of spacers 124. In this case, each of the plurality of organic patterns 145 can be formed in the same area as the area of ​​each of the plurality of spacers 124. In this case, the same area can represent substantially the same area.

[0061] The upper surfaces of the multiple organic patterns 145 and the multiple spacers 124 can have, for example, Figure 2The cross shape shown is not limited to this. The shape of the upper surface of each of the plurality of organic patterns 145 and the plurality of spacers 124 can vary according to the shape and aperture ratio of the pixel P. The upper surfaces of the plurality of organic patterns 145 and the plurality of spacers 124 can be disposed between the plurality of sub-pixels SP1, SP2 and SP3, and can have the following characteristics: Figure 6A The linear shape shown. Alternatively, the upper surface of each of the plurality of organic patterns 145 and the plurality of spacers 124 can have, as shown in the figure. Figure 6B The circular shape shown.

[0062] The area on the upper surface where multiple organic patterns 145 and multiple spacers 124 are disposed can correspond to multiple transmission regions TA. The second electrode 140 may not be disposed on the multiple organic patterns 145. Therefore, the area where multiple organic patterns 145 are disposed can become the transmission region TA without reducing the transmittance of the second electrode 140.

[0063] An organic light-emitting layer 130 may be disposed on the first electrode 120. The organic light-emitting layer 130 may include a hole transport layer, a light-emitting layer, and an electron transport layer. In this case, when a voltage is applied to the first electrode 120 and the second electrode 140, holes and electrons move to the light-emitting layer through the hole transport layer and the electron transport layer, respectively, and recombine with each other in the light-emitting layer to emit light.

[0064] In one implementation, a light-emitting layer can be formed for each sub-pixel SP1, SP2, and SP3. For example, a green light-emitting layer for emitting green light can be provided in the first sub-pixel SP1, a red light-emitting layer for emitting red light can be provided in the second sub-pixel SP2, and a blue light-emitting layer for emitting blue light can be provided in the third sub-pixel SP3.

[0065] The second electrode 140 can be disposed on the organic light-emitting layer 130 and the embankment 122. The second electrode 140 can be disposed in the non-transmissive region NTA, which includes the light-emitting region EA. The second electrode 140 can be a common layer formed together in sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3 to apply the same voltage.

[0066] The second electrode 140 may be formed of a semi-transmissive conductive material such as magnesium (Mg), silver (Ag), or an alloy of magnesium (Mg) and silver (Ag). Therefore, the second electrode 140 can improve luminous efficiency through a microcavity. The second electrode 140 may be a cathode.

[0067] The second electrode 140 may include an opening region OA that overlaps with the plurality of transmission regions TA. Specifically, the second electrode 140 is not disposed on the plurality of organic patterns 145 disposed in the plurality of transmission regions TA, but may be disposed in a region other than the region where the plurality of organic patterns 145 and the plurality of spacers 124 are disposed.

[0068] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the display panel 110 prevents the formation of a second electrode 140 on the upper surface of each of the plurality of organic patterns 145 by using the properties of the materials constituting the plurality of organic patterns 145.

[0069] Multiple organic patterns 145 can be formed from materials capable of desorbing metallic materials. Specifically, the materials constituting the multiple organic patterns 145 can be organic materials with low surface energy of the material itself or high interfacial energy between metallic materials. Organic materials with the above characteristics have a low deposition rate of metallic materials because the metallic materials desorb from the surface during the deposition process.

[0070] In one embodiment, the plurality of organic patterns 145 may be made of a photoisomerizing material. A photoisomerizing material is a material that changes to another isomer with different physical or chemical properties when exposed to light such as UV light, and may be, for example, a photochromic material. A photochromic material is a material whose color changes when exposed to light such as UV light, and whose color returns to its original color when the light is blocked. For example, a photochromic material may include a diarylethylene-based compound comprising the following chemical formula 1.

[0071] [Chemical Formula 1]

[0072] A characteristic of photoisomerization materials is that the deposition rate of the metallic material varies depending on whether it is exposed to light. In detail, such as... Figure 4 As shown, photoisomerized materials irradiated with UV exhibit a high deposition rate of metallic materials due to nucleation. For example, metallic materials can be deposited well on photoisomerized materials irradiated with UV. On the other hand, photoisomerized materials not irradiated with UV exhibit a low deposition rate of metallic materials due to desorption, such as... Figure 4 As shown. For example, metallic materials cannot be deposited well on photoisomerized materials that have not been exposed to UV light.

[0073] In a display panel 110 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the second electrode 140 can be selectively patterned using the properties of the materials constituting the plurality of organic patterns 145. (Refer to...) Figure 5 Multiple organic patterns 145 may be disposed in specific areas of the first substrate 111. Then, when metal material for the second electrode 140 is deposited on the first substrate 111 in which multiple organic patterns 145 are disposed, the metal material is not disposed on the multiple organic patterns 145, and may be deposited only on the areas in which multiple organic patterns 145 are not disposed.

[0074] Therefore, the second electrode 140 can have an opening region OA that overlaps with the plurality of organic patterns 145. Since the second electrode 140 is not disposed on the plurality of organic patterns 145, the region on which the plurality of organic patterns 145 are disposed can be a transmission region TA with high light transmittance.

[0075] A capping layer CPL can be disposed on the light-emitting element. Specifically, the capping layer CPL can be disposed on the second electrode 140 and multiple organic patterns 145 to enhance the light extraction effect. The capping layer CPL can be made of organic materials with hole transport capabilities, but is not limited to this.

[0076] The encapsulation layer 160 may be disposed on the cover layer CPL. The encapsulation layer 160 may be disposed on the cover layer CPL to cover the cover layer CPL. The encapsulation layer 160 is used to prevent oxygen or moisture from penetrating into the organic light-emitting layer 130 and the second electrode 140. For this purpose, the encapsulation layer 160 may include at least one inorganic layer and at least one organic layer.

[0077] In a display panel 110 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a cover layer CPL may be provided in a transmissive region TA and a non-transmissive region NTA. The cover layer CPL may be formed in the non-transmissive region NTA to at least partially cover the second electrode 140. Specifically, the cover layer CPL may be formed in the non-transmissive region NTA to at least partially surround the upper surface and side surface of the second electrode 140.

[0078] Furthermore, a capping layer CPL can be formed in the transmission region TA to at least partially cover the upper surface of each organic pattern 145 and the side surface of each spacer 124. Specifically, the capping layer CPL can be formed in the transmission region TA to at least partially surround the upper surface of each organic pattern 145 and the side surface of each spacer 124. Additionally, the capping layer CPL can be disposed on the upper surface of the embankment 122, which is exposed by the spacer 124 and on which no second electrode 140 is disposed.

[0079] The capping layer CPL can be formed to at least partially surround the spacer 124 having an inverted conical structure, thereby increasing the adhesion between the capping layer CPL and the underlying element. Specifically, due to the low surface energy of the material of the organic pattern 145, the adhesion between the organic pattern and the organic material, as well as the metallic material, may be weakened. Therefore, when the capping layer CPL is deposited on multiple organic patterns 145, the adhesion between the multiple organic patterns 145 and the capping layer CPL weakens. As a result, during the manufacturing process, the multiple organic patterns 145 and the capping layer CPL may separate from each other, and when the capping layer CPL separates, the second electrode 140 may also separate or be damaged.

[0080] Generally, the manufacturing process of the display device 100 is not performed sequentially. For example, circuit elements, light-emitting elements, a cover layer CPL, and an encapsulation layer 160 can be formed on a first substrate 111 using a sequential process. Then, the first substrate 111, on which the circuit elements, light-emitting elements, cover layer CPL, and encapsulation layer 160 are formed, can be moved to perform subsequent processes. In this case, to prevent damage to the circuit elements, light-emitting elements, cover layer CPL, and encapsulation layer 160, such as... Figure 7 As shown, with the protective film 170 attached to the first substrate 111, the first substrate 111 is moved to a position for performing subsequent processes. After the protective film 170 is removed from the first substrate 111, subsequent processes can be performed.

[0081] At this point, the adhesive force between the multiple organic patterns 145 and the cover layer CPL can be less than the adhesive force between the protective film 170 and the encapsulation layer 160. In this case, when the protective film 170 is removed, the cover layer CPL separates from the multiple organic patterns 145, and as... Figure 7 As shown, the encapsulation layer 160 and the cover layer CPL can be removed together with the protective film 170. However, the encapsulation layer 160 and the cover layer CPL may be damaged in the area where the multiple organic patterns 145 are formed, and the second electrode 140 disposed beneath them may be exposed to external moisture and oxygen. Furthermore, when the cover layer CPL is separated, the second electrode 140 may also be separated. Light emission may not be adequate in the area where the cover layer CPL and the second electrode 140 are separated, potentially leading to defects in the display device 100.

[0082] To address the aforementioned problems, in a display panel 110 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, spacers 124 having an inverted conical structure can be provided on the embankment 122, and organic patterns 145 can be provided on the spacers 124. Therefore, a cover layer CPL can be formed in the transmissive region TA to at least partially surround the side surface of each spacer 124 having the inverted conical structure and the upper surface of each organic pattern 145. Furthermore, a cover layer CPL can be formed to at least partially cover the upper surface of the embankment 122.

[0083] In addition to contacting the upper surface of each organic pattern 145, which has weak adhesion, the cover layer CPL can also contact the side surface of each spacer 124 and the upper surface of the embankment 122, thereby increasing adhesion. As a result, when the protective film 170 is removed, the adhesion between the cover layer CPL and the spacer 124, as well as the adhesion between the cover layer CPL and the embankment 122, can prevent the cover layer CPL from separating from the organic pattern 145. Therefore, the yield and reliability of the display device 100 can be improved.

[0084] exist Figure 3In this embodiment, the encapsulation layer 160 is formed directly on the cover layer CPL, but is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the first inorganic passivation layer 150 may be further included between the encapsulation layer 160 and the cover layer CPL, such as... Figure 8 As shown. The first inorganic passivation layer 150 can be formed in the transmissive region TA and the non-transmissive region NTA, and can be a transparent inorganic layer such as indium zinc oxide (IZO). The first inorganic passivation layer 150 can be deposited by a sputtering process, thereby increasing the adhesion to the capping layer CPL. The capping layer CPL can reduce the forces acting on the interface with the organic pattern 145 when the protective film 170 is removed by the adhesion to the first inorganic passivation layer 150 deposited thereon.

[0085] At the same time, Figure 8 In this process, the first inorganic passivation layer 150 is disposed between the encapsulation layer 160 and the cover layer CPL, but is not limited thereto.

[0086] In another embodiment, the second inorganic passivation layer 155 may be disposed on the second electrode 140 and the plurality of organic patterns 145, such as Figure 9 As shown. Specifically, a second inorganic passivation layer 155 can be disposed between the capping layer CPL and the organic patterns 145 in the transmission region TA. The second inorganic passivation layer 155 can be formed to at least partially cover the upper and side surfaces of each organic pattern 145. The second inorganic passivation layer 155 can be a transparent inorganic layer, such as indium zinc oxide (IZO). The second inorganic passivation layer 155 can be formed to at least partially surround the plurality of organic patterns 145, while being deposited by a sputtering process. Considering the sputtering process, the second inorganic passivation layer 155 can have a greater adhesion to the organic patterns 145 than the capping layer CPL.

[0087] Furthermore, a second inorganic passivation layer 155 can be disposed in the non-transmitting region NTA and the transmitting region TA. The second inorganic passivation layer 155 can be disposed between the second electrode 140 and the capping layer CPL in the non-transmitting region NTA, and can at least partially cover the second electrode 140. The second inorganic passivation layer 155 can be formed in the non-transmitting region NTA to at least partially surround the upper surface and side surface of the second electrode 140. When the second inorganic passivation layer 155 is formed of IZO, the second inorganic passivation layer 155 in contact with the second electrode 140 can serve as a cathode together with the second electrode 140. Therefore, in Figure 9 In the display panel 110 shown, the resistance of the cathode can be reduced.

[0088] The capping layer CPL can be disposed on the second inorganic passivation layer 155. In this case, since the second inorganic passivation layer 155 at least partially surrounds the organic pattern 145, the capping layer CPL may not contact the organic pattern 145. Therefore, Figure 9The display panel 110 shown can be compared to Figure 3 The display panel 110 shown further increases the bonding strength between the cover layer CPL and the underlying components.

[0089] Meanwhile, with the protective film 170 attached to it, Figure 3 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 The display panel 110 shown can be moved to a position where subsequent processes can be performed. After the protective film 170 is removed from the first substrate 111, subsequent processes can be performed.

[0090] The aforementioned display panel 110 can be applied to display devices that include optical sensors. Figure 10 This is a schematic plan view illustrating a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 11 This is an exploded view showing a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0091] Reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 According to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the display device 100 may include a display panel 110, an optical sensor 200, a circuit board 300, a cover window 400, and a frame 500.

[0092] The display panel 110 can be divided into a display area DA in which pixels are formed to display an image and a non-display area NDA in which no image is displayed.

[0093] The non-display area NDA can be configured to surround the display area DA. Within the non-display area NDA, drivers for providing various signals to multiple signal lines in the display area DA and link sections for connecting the drivers to the multiple signal lines can be formed. The drivers may include gating drivers for providing gating signals to gating lines and data drivers for providing data signals to data lines.

[0094] The display area DA includes a first display area DA1 and a second display area DA2. The first display area DA1 is an area with multiple first pixels that displays an image when illuminated, regardless of whether the optical sensor 200 is operating. The first display area DA1 may not include... Figures 1 to 9 The transmission area TA shown is not limited to this. When the transmission area TA is not set, the first display area DA1 may not include, as shown in the figure. Figures 1 to 9 The diagram shows multiple spacers 124 and multiple organic patterns 145. Therefore, the second electrode 140 disposed in the first display area DA1 does not have an opening region OA, and the second electrode 140 can be formed throughout the entire first display area DA1. The multiple first pixels disposed in the first display area DA1 may not have a transmissive region TA, thereby achieving a high aperture ratio.

[0095] The second display area DA2 is configured to overlap with the area where the optical sensor 200 is located. Multiple second pixels can be set within the second display area DA2, and whether an image is displayed can be determined based on whether the optical sensor 200 is operated.

[0096] In detail, when the optical sensor 200 is turned off, multiple second sub-pixels can be turned on. Therefore, when the multiple second sub-pixels emit light, an image can be displayed on the second display area DA2.

[0097] On the other hand, when the optical sensor 200 is activated, multiple second sub-pixels can be deactivated. Therefore, an image can be left undisplayed on the second display area DA2, and external light can be input to the optical sensor 200.

[0098] The optical sensor 200 can measure external light while periodically repeating its on-off operation. Furthermore, multiple second sub-pixels can display an image on the second display area DA2 while periodically repeating their on-off operation. The display panel 110 can turn the optical sensor 200 and the multiple second sub-pixels on or off during periods that are not perceptible to the user. Therefore, the user can perceive that an image is displayed on both the second display area DA2 and the first display area DA1, while the optical sensor 200 is operating simultaneously.

[0099] The second display area DA2 should be set with Figures 1 to 9 The transmission area TA shown allows external light to pass through the transmission display panel 110 and enter the optical sensor 200. Therefore, Figures 1 to 9 The pixels shown can be set in the second display area DA2.

[0100] The optical sensor 200 can be disposed on the rear surface of the display panel 110. The optical sensor 200 can be positioned to overlap with the display area DA (particularly the second display area DA2) of the display panel 110. The optical sensor 200 can refer to any element that measures and uses the measured external light input through the display panel 110. For example, the optical sensor 200 can be a camera, but is not limited thereto. The optical sensor 200 can be an infrared sensor, an illuminance sensor, a fingerprint sensor, etc.

[0101] The circuit board 300 can be disposed on the rear surface of the display panel 110. The circuit board 300 can be a printed circuit board (PCB) or a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB).

[0102] A cover window 400 can be disposed on the front surface of the display panel 110. The cover window 400 protects the display panel 110 from external impacts by covering the front surface of the display panel 110. The cover window 400 may include transparent plastic material, glass material, or tempered glass material.

[0103] The frame 500 accommodates the display panel 110 and supports the cover window 400. The frame 500 may include a receiving portion for accommodating the optical sensor 200 and the circuit board 300. The frame 500 allows the display panel 110, the optical sensor 200, and the circuit board 300 to be secured to the display device 100. Furthermore, the frame 500 can be used to protect the display panel 110, the optical sensor 200, and the circuit board 300 from impacts.

[0104] According to this disclosure, the following exemplary advantages can be obtained.

[0105] In this disclosure, an organic pattern formed of a material capable of desorbing metallic materials is formed in the transmission region, thereby eliminating the need for a second electrode to be deposited on the transmission region. Therefore, this disclosure improves the light transmittance in the transmission region.

[0106] Furthermore, in this disclosure, an organic pattern is formed on the upper surface of the spacer having an inverted conical structure, allowing the cover layer to contact the upper surface of the embankment and the side surfaces of the spacer. As a result, the bonding force between the cover layer and the lower element can be increased.

[0107] This disclosure prevents the cover layer from separating from the organic pattern when the protective film is removed. Therefore, this disclosure can improve the yield and reliability of the display device.

[0108] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments and drawings described above, and that various substitutions, modifications, and variations may be made in this disclosure without departing from its spirit or scope. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure is defined by the appended claims, and all variations or modifications derived from the meaning, scope, and equivalent concepts of the claims are intended to fall within the scope of this disclosure.

[0109] Cross-references to related applications

[0110] This application claims the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0186169, filed on December 23, 2021, which is incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth herein.

Claims

1. A display device, the display device comprising: A substrate having at least two transmissive regions and a non-transmissive region disposed between the at least two transmissive regions; A sub-pixel in a non-transmissive region, the sub-pixel comprising a first electrode, a light-emitting layer, and a second electrode; At least two spacers, each of the at least two spacers being located in a corresponding transmission region of the at least two transmission regions; At least two organic patterns, said at least two organic patterns being located on the entire upper surface of the respective spacer of said at least two spacers; An inorganic passivation layer is provided on the second electrode and the organic pattern, such that the inorganic passivation layer at least partially covers the upper and side surfaces of the organic pattern; as well as A capping layer, the capping layer being on the inorganic passivation layer, The organic pattern is spaced apart from the second electrode, and The organic pattern and the second electrode are disposed on different layers.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The upper surface of each spacer is wider than the lower surface of the spacer.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The organic pattern includes materials capable of desorbing metallic materials.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein The organic pattern includes photoisomerized materials.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the display device further comprises an encapsulation layer on the cover layer.

6. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising a dam in each of the at least two transmissive regions, each of the at least two spacers being located on the respective dam.

7. The display device of claim 6, wherein, Each dam partially covers the edge of the first electrode, such that the dam is absent on a portion of the first electrode between the dams.

8. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The upper surface of each of the organic patterns has the same shape as the upper surface of each of the spacers.

9. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The upper surface of the organic pattern and the upper surface of the spacer have a cross shape.

10. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The upper surface of the organic pattern and the upper surface of the spacer have a circular shape.

11. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The upper surface of the organic pattern and the upper surface of the spacer have rectangular shapes.

12. The display device of claim 1, wherein, The second electrode includes an opening that overlaps with at least a portion of the transmission region.

13. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The second electrode comprises a semi-transparent metallic material or an opaque metallic material.

14. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The second electrode comprises at least one of Ag or Mg.

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