Array substrate, preparation method of array substrate and display panel

Abstract

The application provides an array substrate, a preparation method of the array substrate and a display panel. The base layer has a plurality of opening regions. A light emitting unit is arranged in the opening region. The light emitting unit comprises a first electrode layer, a light emitting layer and a second electrode layer. The first electrode layer is arranged in the opening region. The surface of the first electrode layer away from the substrate is a concave arc surface. The light emitting layer is arranged on the concave arc surface. The second electrode layer is arranged on the light emitting layer. The surface of the second electrode layer toward the light emitting layer is a first convex arc surface. The concave arc surface is a reflection arc surface, and the first convex arc surface is a transmission arc surface. Alternatively, the concave arc surface is a transmission arc surface, and the first convex arc surface is a reflection arc surface. Part of the light emitted by the light emitting layer is reflected by the reflection arc surface and then emitted. Another part of the light emitted by the light emitting layer is emitted through the transmission arc surface. The light emitted by the light emitting layer is emitted from the light emitting side, and the light emitting efficiency is further improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of display technology, specifically to an array substrate, a method for fabricating the array substrate, and a display panel. Background Technology

[0002] Organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) have gradually become the mainstream technology for display devices due to their advantages such as wide viewing angles, uniform image quality, fast response times, and low power consumption. In existing technologies, the light emitted from the light-emitting layer is emitted in all directions, resulting in significant light loss. Therefore, improving the light extraction efficiency of display panels has become a key technical problem that needs to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides an array substrate for improving light extraction efficiency, a method for fabricating the array substrate, and a display panel.

[0004] In a first aspect, an array substrate provided in an embodiment of this application includes:

[0005] substrate;

[0006] A base layer is disposed on the substrate, the base layer having a plurality of opening regions; and

[0007] Multiple light-emitting units are provided, each light-emitting unit comprising a first electrode layer, a light-emitting layer, and a second electrode layer. The first electrode layer is disposed within the opening area. The surface of the first electrode layer facing away from the substrate includes at least one concave arc surface. The light-emitting layer is disposed on the concave arc surface. The second electrode layer is disposed on the light-emitting layer. The surface of the second electrode layer facing the light-emitting layer includes at least one first convex arc surface. The concave arc surface is a reflective arc surface, and the first convex arc surface is a transmissive arc surface; or, the concave arc surface is a transmissive arc surface, and the first convex arc surface is a reflective arc surface. A portion of the light emitted by the light-emitting layer is reflected by the reflective arc surface and then emitted, while another portion of the light emitted by the light-emitting layer is emitted through the transmissive arc surface.

[0008] The array substrate provided in this application embodiment has multiple opening areas in the base layer. A light-emitting unit is disposed in each opening area. The light-emitting unit includes a first electrode layer, a light-emitting layer, and a second electrode layer. The first electrode layer is disposed within the opening area. The surface of the first electrode layer facing away from the substrate is a concave arc surface. The light-emitting layer is disposed on the concave arc surface. The second electrode layer is disposed on the light-emitting layer. The surface of the second electrode layer facing the light-emitting layer is a first convex arc surface. The concave arc surface is a reflective arc surface, and the first convex arc surface is a transmissive arc surface; or, the concave arc surface is a transmissive arc surface, and the first convex arc surface is a reflective arc surface. A portion of the light emitted by the light-emitting layer is reflected by the reflective arc surface and emitted, while another portion of the light emitted by the light-emitting layer is emitted through the transmissive arc surface. This further reduces the amount of light emitted towards the substrate side and the base layer, allowing the light from the light-emitting layer to be emitted from the light-emitting side, thereby further increasing the light emission efficiency.

[0009] In one alternative embodiment, the surface of the second electrode layer facing away from the light-emitting layer is a second convex arc surface.

[0010] In one alternative embodiment, the depth of the reflective arc surface is greater than the depth of the transmissive arc surface.

[0011] In one alternative embodiment, the sum of the depth of the reflective arc surface and the depth of the transmissive arc surface is less than the thickness of the substrate layer.

[0012] In one optional embodiment, the substrate layer includes a pixel definition layer and a passivation layer, the passivation layer being disposed between the substrate and the pixel definition layer, the first electrode layer being disposed on the passivation layer, the second electrode layer being disposed on the pixel definition layer, the depth of the first convex arc surface being less than or equal to the thickness of the pixel definition layer, and the height of the concave arc surface being less than or equal to the thickness of the passivation layer.

[0013] In one alternative implementation, the second electrode layers between the plurality of light-emitting units are electrically connected to each other.

[0014] In one optional embodiment, the side of the substrate layer surrounding the opening area is an inclined surface, the edge of the light-emitting layer contacts the inclined surface, a first portion of the second electrode layer is disposed on the light-emitting layer, a second portion of the second electrode layer is disposed on the inclined surface, and a third portion of the second electrode layer is disposed on the side of the substrate layer away from the substrate.

[0015] In one optional embodiment, the array substrate further includes a driving TFT layer disposed on the substrate, the base layer disposed on the driving TFT layer, and the driving TFT layer being electrically connected to the first electrode layer.

[0016] Secondly, an embodiment of this application provides a method for fabricating an array substrate, the method comprising:

[0017] A substrate layer is formed on the substrate;

[0018] Multiple internal grooves are formed in the base layer;

[0019] A first electrode layer is formed on the groove wall within the inner groove, and the surface of the first electrode layer facing away from the substrate is a concave arc surface.

[0020] A light-emitting layer is formed on the first electrode layer;

[0021] A second electrode layer is formed on the light-emitting layer. The surface of the second electrode layer facing the light-emitting layer is a first convex arc surface, the concave arc surface is a reflective arc surface, and the first convex arc surface is a transmissive arc surface; or, the concave arc surface is a transmissive arc surface, and the first convex arc surface is a reflective arc surface.

[0022] The method for fabricating an array substrate provided in this application involves forming multiple recesses in the substrate layer; forming a first electrode layer on the wall of the recesses, wherein the surface of the first electrode layer facing away from the substrate is a concave arc surface; forming a light-emitting layer on the first electrode layer; forming a second electrode layer on the light-emitting layer, wherein the surface of the second electrode layer facing the light-emitting layer is a first convex arc surface, the concave arc surface is a reflective arc surface, and the first convex arc surface is a transmissive arc surface; or, the concave arc surface is a transmissive arc surface, and the first convex arc surface is a reflective arc surface, wherein a portion of the light emitted by the light-emitting layer is reflected by the reflective arc surface and emitted, and another portion of the light emitted by the light-emitting layer is emitted by the transmissive arc surface, thereby further reducing the light emitted toward the side where the substrate is located and into the substrate layer, so that the light emitted by the light-emitting layer is emitted from the light-emitting side, thereby further increasing the light emission efficiency.

[0023] Thirdly, an embodiment of this application provides a display panel including the aforementioned array substrate. Attached Figure Description

[0024] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly described below.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the display panel provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A partial schematic diagram of the array substrate;

[0027] Figure 3 for Figure 2 The diagram shows the principle of light reflection from the concave arc surface of the array substrate.

[0028] Figure 4 for Figure 2 The diagram shows the principle of light convergence on the first convex arc surface of the array substrate.

[0029] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of light emission from a light-emitting unit in the prior art;

[0030] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the light-emitting unit of the array substrate provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0031] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the first type of transmission arc surface provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0032] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the second type of transmission arc surface provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0033] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the first type of reflective arc surface provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0034] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the second type of reflective arc surface provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0035] Figure 11 This is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of the array substrate provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 1 ;

[0036] Figure 12 This is a flowchart of the method for fabricating an array substrate provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 13 This is a process diagram of the fabrication of an array substrate provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0038] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0039] Display panel 100; array substrate 11; light-emitting unit 12; TFT unit 13; substrate 14; pixel definition layer 15; opening region 15a; first electrode layer 16; light-emitting layer 17; second electrode layer 18; first injection layer 21; first transport layer 22; second injection layer 23; second transport layer 24; driving TFT layer 26; passivation layer 28; gate 29; insulating layer 30; active layer 31; source electrode 32; drain electrode 33; conductive via 34; base layer 25; concave arc surface 35; first convex arc surface 36; second convex arc surface 37; reflective arc surface 38; transmissive arc surface 39; inclined surface 40; inner groove 25a. Detailed Implementation

[0040] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. In addition, the reference to "embodiment" or "implementation method" in this application means that a specific feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment or implementation method can be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it an independent or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It is explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described in this application can be combined with other embodiments.

[0041] In describing some embodiments, the term "electrical connection" and its derivative expressions may be used. For example, the term "connection" may be used in describing some embodiments to indicate that two or more components have direct physical or electrical contact with each other. As another example, the term "electrical connection" may be used in describing some embodiments to indicate that two or more components have physical contact or an electrical signal path, such as two components being connected by a signal line, or other electrical components or circuits existing between the two components, but a signal path exists between them through these other electrical components. However, the term "electrical connection" may also refer to two or more components that do not have direct contact with each other, but still cooperate or interact with each other. The embodiments disclosed herein are not necessarily limited to the content of this document.

[0042] Please see Figure 1 This application provides a display panel 100 with improved light extraction efficiency. The display panel 100 includes, but is not limited to, a panel with self-emissive units such as an OLED. The display panel 100 includes an array substrate 11. The array substrate 11 includes, but is not limited to, a pixel unit array substrate 11. The array substrate 11 is provided with a plurality of pixel units arranged in an array.

[0043] Please see Figure 2 The array substrate 11 includes a substrate 14, a base layer 25, and a plurality of light-emitting units 12.

[0044] Please see Figure 2 A base layer 25 is disposed on the substrate 14. The base layer 25 includes, but is not limited to, a pixel definition layer 15 and a passivation layer 28. The base layer 25 includes an opening region 15a. This opening region 15a is also the light-emitting region of the pixel unit. The light-emitting unit 12 is disposed in the opening region 15a.

[0045] Please see Figure 2 The light-emitting unit 12 includes a first electrode layer 16, a second electrode layer 18, and a light-emitting layer 17.

[0046] Please see Figure 2The first electrode layer 16 is disposed within the opening region 15a. The first electrode layer 16 is laid at the bottom of the opening region 15a. The surface of the first electrode layer 16 facing away from the substrate 14 includes at least one concave arc surface 35.

[0047] The light-emitting layer 17 is disposed on the concave arc surface 35. The light-emitting layer 17 is disposed on the first electrode layer 16. The light-emitting layer 17 includes, but is not limited to, organic light-emitting materials.

[0048] Please see Figure 2 The second electrode layer 18 is disposed on the light-emitting layer 17. The surface of the second electrode layer 18 facing the light-emitting layer 17 includes at least one first convex arc surface 36.

[0049] The first electrode layer 16 and the second electrode layer 18 are used to provide a driving voltage for the light-emitting layer 17 so as to drive the light-emitting layer 17 to emit light.

[0050] The first electrode layer 16 and the second electrode layer 18 are disposed at a distance from each other. In other words, the first electrode layer 16 and the second electrode layer 18 are not electrically connected.

[0051] The side of the light-emitting layer 17 that faces away from the substrate 14 is the light-emitting side.

[0052] Further, please refer to Figure 3 The first electrode layer 16 has a concave arc surface 35 on the side facing the light-emitting layer 17, which is used to reflect at least part of the light emitted by the light-emitting layer 17 to the light-emitting surface of the light-emitting layer 17 for emission, thereby reducing light loss on the side where the first electrode layer 16 is located and the side of the base layer 25, and improving the light extraction efficiency.

[0053] Please see Figure 4 The second electrode layer 18 has a first convex arc surface 36 on the side facing the light-emitting layer 17, which is used to converge at least part of the light emitted by the light-emitting layer 17 and then emit it from the light-emitting surface of the light-emitting layer 17, thereby achieving light focusing, reducing light loss on the substrate layer 25 side, and improving light extraction efficiency.

[0054] In general technology, please refer to Figure 5 The light emitted by the light-emitting layer 17 shines out in all directions.

[0055] Please see Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 In this embodiment of the application, the design of the first electrode layer 16, the light-emitting layer 17 and the second electrode layer 18 allows the light emitted from the light-emitting layer 17 to be reflected to the light-emitting surface of the light-emitting layer 17 and then converged and emitted, thereby improving the light extraction efficiency.

[0056] In one alternative implementation, please refer to Figure 2 The surface of the second electrode layer 18 facing away from the light-emitting layer 17 is a second convex arc surface 37. Optionally, the first convex arc surface 36 and the second convex arc surface 37 can be coplanar. Of course, in other embodiments, the second electrode layer 18 can also have a structure that is thicker in the middle and thinner at both ends to increase the light-gathering effect of the second electrode layer 18. In other words, the second electrode layer 18 has an outward convex structure. The material of the second electrode layer 18 is a light-transmitting material, such as graphene, ITO, etc. The second electrode layer 18 is similar to a plano-convex lens structure.

[0057] In other embodiments, the surface of the second electrode layer 18 facing away from the light-emitting layer 17 may also be a plane, which may be flush with the side of the substrate layer 25 facing away from the substrate 14.

[0058] The material of the first electrode layer 16 includes highly reflective and highly conductive metals, such as Ag / Al.

[0059] In one alternative implementation, please refer to Figures 7 to 10 The depth H3 of the reflective arc surface 38 is greater than the depth H1 of the transmissive arc surface 39. The depth H3 of the reflective arc surface 38 refers to its dimension along the thickness direction of the substrate 14. The depth H1 of the transmissive arc surface 39 refers to its dimension along the thickness direction of the reflective arc surface 38.

[0060] In other words, the concave depth of the first electrode layer 16 is greater than the convex depth of the second electrode layer 18.

[0061] In this embodiment, as the depth H3 of the reflective arc surface 38 increases, the focal point of the reflective arc surface 38 gradually moves towards the side away from the substrate 14. By designing the depth H3 of the reflective arc surface 38 to be greater than the depth H1 of the transmission arc surface 39, the focal point of the reflective arc surface 38 and the focal point of the transmission arc surface 39 can be made close to or coincide with each other. In this way, a portion of the light emitted by the light-emitting layer 17 is reflected by the reflective arc surface 38 of the first electrode layer 16 and then directed towards the focal point of the reflective arc surface 38. A portion of the light emitted by the light-emitting layer 17 is converged by the transmission arc surface 39 of the second electrode layer 18 and then directed towards the focal point of the transmission arc surface 39. Thus, the light emitted by the light-emitting layer 17 can be converged to one point, thereby reducing light loss and enhancing the light extraction efficiency.

[0062] In one alternative embodiment, the depth H1 of the transmission arc surface 39 is designed to be relatively large, so that the focal point of the transmission arc surface 39 is located outside the second electrode layer 18 (on the side opposite to the first electrode layer 16) and close to the second electrode layer 18. This causes the light emitted by the light-emitting layer 17 towards the second electrode layer 18 to converge at a position closer to the second electrode layer 18, shortening the light path and reducing light loss. For example, the curvature of the transmission arc surface 39 can be less than or equal to 180°.

[0063] In one optional embodiment, the depth H3 of the reflective arc surface 38 is designed to be relatively large, so that the focal point of the reflective arc surface 38 is located outside the light-emitting layer 17 (on the side away from the first electrode layer 16), and further, the focal point of the reflective arc surface 38 is located outside the second electrode layer 18 (on the side away from the first electrode layer 16) and close to the second electrode layer 18. This allows the light emitted by the light-emitting layer 17 towards the first electrode layer 16 to be reflected by the first electrode layer 16 and then exit the light-emitting layer 17, thereby improving the light extraction efficiency. For example, the curvature of the reflective arc surface 38 can be less than or equal to 180°.

[0064] In one optional embodiment, the sum of the depth H3 of the reflective arc surface 38 and the depth H1 of the transmissive arc surface 39 is less than the thickness of the substrate layer 25. In other words, the first electrode layer 16, the light-emitting layer 17, the second electrode layer 18, and the opening region 15a of the substrate layer 25 are all located within it. Improvements to the first electrode layer 16, the light-emitting layer 17, and the second electrode layer 18 do not affect the thickness of the substrate layer 25.

[0065] In one alternative implementation, please refer to Figure 2 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 The substrate layer 25 includes a pixel definition layer 15 and a passivation layer 28. The passivation layer 28 is disposed between the substrate 14 and the pixel definition layer 15. A first electrode layer 16 is disposed on the passivation layer 28. A second electrode layer 18 is disposed on the pixel definition layer 15. The depth of the first convex arc surface 36 is less than or equal to the thickness of the pixel definition layer 15. The height of the concave arc surface 35 is less than or equal to the thickness of the passivation layer 28.

[0066] In one optional embodiment, the surface of the second electrode layer 18 facing the light-emitting layer 17 includes a plurality of first convex arc surfaces 36, which are connected to each other. Each first convex arc surface 36 is conformally fitted with a second convex arc surface 37. Thus, a plurality of continuous first convex arc surfaces 36 are formed on one side of the light-emitting layer 17. This allows for the design of the curvature of the first convex arc surfaces 36 to be as large as possible, for example, 180°, when the thickness of the substrate layer 25 (pixel definition layer 15) is relatively thin, thereby reducing the light-gathering path and increasing the light-gathering intensity. The multiple first convex arc surfaces 36 are arranged in a flat manner, which can efficiently focus the light emitted by a large area of ​​the light-emitting layer 17, further improving the light extraction efficiency.

[0067] In one optional embodiment, the surface of the first electrode layer 16 facing the light-emitting layer 17 includes a plurality of concave arc surfaces 35, which are connected to each other. Thus, a plurality of continuous concave arc surfaces 35 are formed on the other side of the light-emitting layer 17. This allows for a larger curvature of the concave arc surfaces 35 when the thickness of the substrate layer 25 (passivation layer 28) is relatively thin; for example, the curvature of the concave arc surface 35 can be designed to be 180°, so that the focal point of the concave arc surface 35 is positioned on the side of the second electrode layer 18 away from the light-emitting layer 17 and close to the second electrode layer 18, improving the utilization rate of reflected light. The multiple concave arc surfaces 35 are arranged in a flat manner, which can efficiently reflect the light emitted by a large area of ​​the light-emitting layer 17, allowing the reflected light to directly exit the second electrode layer 18, further improving the light extraction efficiency.

[0068] In one optional embodiment, the first electrode layer 16 is an anode layer and the second electrode layer 18 is a cathode layer. In other words, the anode layer of the light-emitting unit 12 reflects the light emitted by the light-emitting layer 17, and the cathode layer of the light-emitting unit 12 transmits the light emitted by the light-emitting layer 17. In this case, the display panel 100 is a top-emitting panel.

[0069] In another optional embodiment, the first electrode layer 16 is a cathode layer and the second electrode layer 18 is an anode layer. In other words, the cathode layer of the light-emitting unit 12 reflects the light emitted by the light-emitting layer 17, and the anode layer of the light-emitting unit 12 transmits the light emitted by the light-emitting layer 17. In this case, the display panel 100 is a bottom-emitting panel.

[0070] The anode layers (first electrode layers 16) of two adjacent light-emitting units 12 are spaced apart. Each TFT unit 13 is electrically connected to the anode layer (first electrode layer 16) of one light-emitting unit 12. The TFT unit 13 is used to provide an anode voltage to the anode layer (first electrode layer 16) of each light-emitting unit 12.

[0071] In one alternative implementation, please refer to Figure 11 The array substrate 11 further includes a driving TFT layer 26 disposed on the substrate 14, and the base layer 25 disposed on the driving TFT layer 26. The driving TFT layer 26 is electrically connected to the first electrode layer 16. The first electrode layer 16 is an anode layer.

[0072] Optional, please refer to Figure 11The driving TFT layer 26 also includes a plurality of TFT units 13. The plurality of TFT units 13 are disposed on the substrate 14. Specifically, the substrate 14 has a gate 29, an insulating layer 30 covering the gate 29, an active layer 31 disposed on the insulating layer 30, a source 32 connected to the active layer 31, and a drain 33 connected to the active layer 31, the active layer 31 corresponding to the gate 29. The passivation layer 28 covers the source 32, drain 33, and active layer 31 of the plurality of TFT units 13. A pixel definition layer 15 and a light-emitting unit 12 are disposed on the passivation layer 28. The drain 33 of the TFT unit 13 corresponds to the anode layer (first electrode layer 16) of the light-emitting unit 12. The passivation layer 28 includes a conductive via 34. The conductive via 34 electrically connects the anode layer (first electrode layer 16) of the light-emitting unit 12 to the drain 33 of the TFT unit 13.

[0073] Optional, please refer to Figure 11 The TFT unit 13 may be disposed between the first electrode layer 16 and the substrate 14. The orthogonal projection of the TFT unit 13 in the thickness direction of the substrate 14 is at least partially located below the orthogonal projection of the first electrode layer 16 in the thickness direction of the substrate 14. Further, the orthogonal projection of the TFT unit 13 in the thickness direction of the substrate 14 may be entirely located below the orthogonal projection of the first electrode layer 16 in the thickness direction of the substrate 14.

[0074] The conductive via 34 can be electrically connected to the bottom of the first electrode layer 16 to reduce the size of the conductive via 34 and reduce signal loss. Alternatively, by designing the first electrode layer 16 so that its bottom directly contacts the drain 33 of the TFT cell 13, the conductive via 34 is not required.

[0075] The first electrode layer 16 is made of a reflective metal material, so the TFT unit 13 will not be illuminated by light. In addition, the TFT unit 13 is located below the opening region 15a, so it does not need to occupy the area of ​​the light-shielding area of ​​the pixel unit, thereby reducing the area of ​​the light-shielding area of ​​the pixel unit.

[0076] The anode layers (first electrode layers 16) of two adjacent light-emitting units 12 are spaced apart. Each TFT unit 13 is electrically connected to the anode layer (first electrode layer 16) of one light-emitting unit 12. The TFT unit 13 is used to provide an anode voltage to the anode layer (first electrode layer 16) of each light-emitting unit 12.

[0077] In a first optional embodiment, the array substrate 11 further includes a plurality of cathode driving units (not shown). The cathode layers (second electrode layers 18) of at least two of the light-emitting units 12 are spaced apart, i.e., not directly connected. For independently configured cathode layers (second electrode layers 18), each cathode driving unit is electrically connected to the cathode layer (second electrode layer 18) of one light-emitting unit 12. This is a cathode-driven design. In this configuration, the cathode layer (second electrode layer 18) and anode layer (first electrode layer 16) of each light-emitting unit 12 are driven by independent driving devices.

[0078] In the embodiment of the cathode-driven design, each light-emitting unit 12 has its own driving device for its cathode layer (second electrode layer 18) and anode layer (first electrode layer 16), which can be supplied with current separately for each light-emitting unit 12.

[0079] In the second alternative embodiment, please refer to Figure 11 Taking the second electrode layer 18 as a cathode layer as an example, the second electrode layers 18 of the multiple light-emitting units 12 are electrically connected to each other.

[0080] The array substrate 11 further includes at least one cathode driving unit. The pixel definition layer 15, on its surface away from the substrate 14, also includes electrical connection traces. These traces are located outside the aperture region 15a of the pixel unit, reducing the impact of the traces on the aperture ratio of the pixel unit. The traces electrically connect the cathode layers (second electrode layers 18) of at least two of the light-emitting units 12. The cathode driving unit is electrically connected to these traces. One cathode driving unit drives the cathode layers (second electrode layers 18) of multiple light-emitting units 12 via the traces, reducing the number of cathode driving units required. Optionally, the cathode layers (second electrode layers 18) of all light-emitting units 12 are connected via electrical connection traces, and all cathode layers (second electrode layers 18) of all light-emitting units 12 are driven by one cathode driving unit. This is a common cathode driving method. Further, the cathode layers (second electrode layers 18) can extend above the pixel definition layer 15, and the traces connect the cathode layers (second electrode layers 18) in each pixel unit to achieve a common cathode effect.

[0081] Further, please refer to Figure 11 At least two of the light-emitting units 12 have second electrode layers 18 extending onto the pixel definition layer 15 and interconnected with each other. Specifically, the second electrode layers 18 may extend onto the pixel definition layer 15 and be interconnected as a single unit.

[0082] In an embodiment of the common cathode driving design, the anode layer (first electrode layer 16) is a separate driving device. The cathode layer (second electrode layer 18) is driven together. In the common cathode method, the anode is inside the pixel opening, while the cathode is partly inside the pixel opening and partly above the pixel definition layer 15, avoiding the opening region 15a. Furthermore, the cathode layer is coated over its entire surface, enabling common cathode layer driving.

[0083] In one alternative implementation, please refer to Figure 2 The substrate layer 25 surrounds the opening region 15a on a sloped surface 40. The edge of the light-emitting layer 17 contacts the sloped surface 40, causing the first electrode layer 16 and the second electrode layer 18 to be spaced apart from each other. A first portion of the second electrode layer 18 is disposed on the light-emitting layer 17. A second portion of the second electrode layer 18 is disposed on the sloped surface 40. A third portion of the second electrode layer 18 is disposed on the side of the substrate layer 25 facing away from the substrate 14. The third portions of the second electrode layers 18 of the plurality of light-emitting units 12 can be interconnected into one unit.

[0084] Please see Figure 12 Combined with reference Figure 13 This embodiment also provides a method S100 for fabricating an array substrate 11. The method S100 includes, but is not limited to, the following steps.

[0085] Step S110: Refer to Figure 13 In the middle ac, a base layer 25 is formed on the substrate 14.

[0086] Step S120: Reference Figure 13 c, a plurality of internal grooves 25a are formed on the base layer 25.

[0087] Optionally, a passivation layer 28 and a pixel definition layer 15 are first coated and formed on the substrate 14. After exposure and development, the passivation layer 28 forms an inner groove 25a, and after exposure and development, the pixel definition layer 15 forms an opening region 15a. The opening region 15a communicates with the inner groove 25a to form an opening.

[0088] In other words, the substrate 25 is exposed to form an inner groove 25a with a certain arc structure.

[0089] Step S130: Reference Figure 13 In the middle d, a first electrode layer 16 is formed on the groove wall in the inner groove 25a, and the surface of the first electrode layer 16 facing away from the substrate 14 is a concave arc surface 35.

[0090] Specifically, the first electrode layer 16 is made of a highly reflective metal to form a reflective film.

[0091] Step S140: Reference Figure 13In the first electrode layer 16, a light-emitting layer 17 is formed.

[0092] Specifically, a light-emitting layer 17 is coated on the first electrode layer 16, and then exposed and developed to form a structure similar to a convex lens.

[0093] Step S150: Reference Figure 13 In the above, a second electrode layer 18 is formed on the light-emitting layer 17. The surface of the second electrode layer 18 facing the light-emitting layer 17 is a first convex arc surface 36, the concave arc surface 35 is a reflective arc surface 38, and the first convex arc surface 36 is a transmissive arc surface 39; or, the concave arc surface 35 is a transmissive arc surface 39, and the first convex arc surface 36 is a reflective arc surface 38.

[0094] Specifically, a second electrode layer 18 is coated on the light-emitting layer 17. The material of the second electrode layer 18 is a light-transmitting and conductive material. The second electrode layer 18 is the light-emitting side, and its convex lens structure can effectively concentrate light and improve light utilization.

[0095] The method for fabricating the array substrate 11 provided in this application embodiment involves forming a plurality of inner grooves 25a in the base layer 25; forming a first electrode layer 16 on the groove wall in the inner groove 25a, wherein the surface of the first electrode layer 16 facing away from the substrate 14 is a concave arc surface 35; forming a light-emitting layer 17 on the first electrode layer 16; forming a second electrode layer 18 on the light-emitting layer 17, wherein the surface of the second electrode layer 18 facing the light-emitting layer 17 is a first convex arc surface 36, the concave arc surface 35 is a reflective arc surface 38, and the first convex arc surface 36 is a transmissive arc surface 39; or, the concave arc surface 35 is a transmissive arc surface 39, and the first convex arc surface 36 is a reflective arc surface 38, wherein a portion of the light emitted by the light-emitting layer 17 is reflected by the reflective arc surface 38 and emitted by the other portion of the light emitted by the light-emitting layer 17 is emitted by the transmissive arc surface 39, thereby further reducing the light emitted toward the side where the substrate 14 is located and into the base layer 25, so that the light emitted by the light-emitting layer 17 is emitted from the light-emitting side, thereby further increasing the light emission efficiency.

[0096] In this embodiment, the anode layer comprises a highly reflective and highly conductive metal such as Ag / Al, and the cathode layer comprises graphene material / ITO film. The anode layer forms a concave shape, which is equivalent to forming a reflective film layer. When light from the light-emitting layer 17 is irradiated, it is reflected by the reflective film layer towards the opening region 15a, improving the light utilization rate of the light-emitting layer 17. A convex lens structure is formed on the opening side of the light-emitting layer 17 through exposure and development, and then a plano-convex lens cathode layer is formed on top. The cathode layer focuses the light emitted from the light-emitting layer 17 and the reflected light from the anode layer reflective film layer, improving the light output rate. The plano-convex lens structure can also utilize the light on both sides of the pixel definition layer 15, reducing light loss caused by total internal reflection and improving light output efficiency.

[0097] When the light-emitting unit 12 forms a combination of a concave reflector and a plano-convex lens, the light emitted from the light-emitting layer 17 can be utilized more effectively and the light extraction efficiency can be increased. Normally, light emitted from both sides of the OLED display panel 100 is absorbed on the surface of the pixel definition layer 15, reducing the light utilization efficiency of the light-emitting layer 17. This invention forms a convex lens structure on the light-emitting side of the light-emitting layer 17, changing the emitted light near the pixel definition layer 15, causing the light to exit towards the opening side, thus improving the light extraction efficiency.

[0098] For example, the convex curvature range of the first convex surface 36 is 90°≤θ<180°; if the height of the pixel definition layer 15 is set to H2, then the convex height range is 0

[0099] This application designs the cathode layer, anode layer, and light-emitting layer 17 to form a concave reflector + plano-convex lens structure, thereby achieving reflection and light focusing. The plano-convex lens structure reduces the absorption of light by the pixel definition layer 15 and improves the light output of the display panel 100.

[0100] Although embodiments of this application have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting this application. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of this application, and such improvements and refinements are also considered to be within the protection scope of this application.​

Claims

1. An array substrate, characterized in that, include: substrate; A base layer is disposed on the substrate, and the base layer has a plurality of opening regions; and Multiple light-emitting units are provided, each light-emitting unit including a first electrode layer, a light-emitting layer, and a second electrode layer. The first electrode layer is disposed within the opening area. The surface of the first electrode layer facing away from the substrate includes at least one concave arc surface. The light-emitting layer covers the surface of the concave arc surface. The second electrode layer covers the surface of the light-emitting layer. The surface of the second electrode layer in contact with the light-emitting layer includes at least one first convex arc surface. The surface of the light-emitting layer in contact with the first electrode layer is a concave surface coplanar with the concave arc surface. The surface of the light-emitting layer in contact with the second electrode layer is a convex surface coplanar with the first convex arc surface. The concave arc surface is a reflective arc surface, and the first convex arc surface is a transmissive arc surface; or, the concave arc surface is a transmissive arc surface, and the first convex arc surface is a reflective arc surface, wherein a portion of the light emitted by the light-emitting layer is reflected by the reflective arc surface and then emitted, and another portion of the light emitted by the light-emitting layer is emitted through the transmissive arc surface.

2. The array substrate according to claim 1, characterized in that, The surface of the second electrode layer facing away from the light-emitting layer is a second convex arc surface.

3. The array substrate according to claim 1, characterized in that, The depth of the reflective arc surface is greater than the depth of the transmissive arc surface.

4. The array substrate according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sum of the depth of the reflective arc surface and the depth of the transmissive arc surface is less than the thickness of the substrate layer.

5. The array substrate according to claim 4, characterized in that, The substrate layer includes a pixel definition layer and a passivation layer. The passivation layer is disposed between the substrate and the pixel definition layer. The first electrode layer is disposed on the passivation layer, and the second electrode layer is disposed on the pixel definition layer. The depth of the first convex arc surface is less than or equal to the thickness of the pixel definition layer, and the height of the concave arc surface is less than or equal to the thickness of the passivation layer.

6. The array substrate according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second electrode layers between the plurality of light-emitting units are electrically connected to each other.

7. The array substrate according to claim 6, characterized in that, The side of the substrate layer surrounding the opening area is an inclined surface, the edge of the light-emitting layer contacts the inclined surface, the first part of the second electrode layer is disposed on the light-emitting layer, the second part of the second electrode layer is disposed on the inclined surface, and the third part of the second electrode layer is disposed on the side of the substrate layer away from the substrate.

8. The array substrate according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The array substrate further includes a driving TFT layer disposed on the substrate, the base layer disposed on the driving TFT layer, and the driving TFT layer being electrically connected to the first electrode layer.

9. A method for fabricating an array substrate as described in any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The method includes: A substrate layer is formed on the substrate; Multiple internal grooves are formed in the base layer; A first electrode layer is formed on the groove wall within the inner groove, and the surface of the first electrode layer facing away from the substrate is a concave arc surface. A light-emitting layer is formed on the first electrode layer; A second electrode layer is formed on the light-emitting layer. The surface of the second electrode layer facing the light-emitting layer is a first convex arc surface, the concave arc surface is a reflective arc surface, and the first convex arc surface is a transmissive arc surface; or, the concave arc surface is a transmissive arc surface, and the first convex arc surface is a reflective arc surface.

10. A display panel, characterized in that, Includes the array substrate as described in any one of claims 1 to 8.

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