Display device

Abstract

A display device includes: a first layer on a first substrate including a display area, and including a color conversion layer including a bank protruding in a thickness direction of the first substrate and a color conversion portion in an area surrounded by the bank and including quantum dots; a second layer on a second substrate facing the first substrate; a filling layer between the first layer and the second layer; and a plurality of edge spacers on an edge bank, the edge bank being any one of the banks.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0118432 filed in the Korean Intellectual Property Office on September 6, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. Technical Field

[0003] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a display device and a method of manufacturing the display device. Background Art

[0004] Recently, as interest in information displays increases, and, for example, as demand for high-quality display devices increases, research and development of display devices continues.

[0005] The above information disclosed in this Background section is only for understanding the background of the present disclosure and therefore it may contain information that does not constitute prior art. Summary of the invention

[0006] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a display device that can be manufactured to have improved reliability and a method of manufacturing the display device.

[0007] A display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a first layer on a first substrate including a display area, and the first layer includes a color conversion layer, the color conversion layer including a dam protruding in the thickness direction of the first substrate and a color conversion portion in an area surrounded by the dam and including quantum dots; a second layer on a second substrate facing the first substrate; a filling layer between the first layer and the second layer; and a plurality of edge spacers on the edge dam, the edge dam being one of the dams surrounding the display area.

[0008] The plurality of edge spacers may space the edge bank apart from the second layer.

[0009] The plurality of edge spacers may penetrate the filling layer to support the second layer.

[0010] The first substrate may include a non-display area not overlapping the display area, and the edge bank may surround the display area and be in the non-display area.

[0011] The plurality of edge spacers may be provided along an outer region of the edge bank.

[0012] The plurality of edge spacers may be provided along a first row on the edge bank and a second row spaced apart from the first row.

[0013] The bank may include an active bank in the display area, and an active spacer may be on the active bank.

[0014] The active spacer and the plurality of edge spacers may be formed at substantially the same point in time.

[0015] The active spacer and the plurality of edge spacers may include an acrylic material.

[0016] The color conversion layer may further include a first insulating layer covering the color conversion portion, the second layer may include a color filter layer and a second insulating layer, the color filter layer includes a color filter, the second insulating layer covers the color filter, and the filling layer may have a surface in contact with the first insulating layer and another surface in contact with the second insulating layer.

[0017] The plurality of edge spacers may contact the second insulating layer and the first insulating layer.

[0018] The first layer may further include a light emitting element layer including a light emitting element, and the color conversion portion may be configured to convert a wavelength of light emitted from the light emitting element.

[0019] Another aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing a display device. The method for manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: forming a first layer on a first substrate including a display area, wherein the first layer includes a color conversion layer, the color conversion layer includes a dam protruding in the thickness direction of the first substrate and a color conversion portion in an area surrounded by the dam and including quantum dots; forming a plurality of edge spacers on the edge dam, the edge dam being one of the dams surrounding the display area; forming a second layer on a second substrate facing the first substrate; and forming a filling layer between the first layer and the second layer to connect the first layer and the second layer.

[0020] The plurality of edge spacers may space the edge bank apart from the second layer.

[0021] The plurality of edge spacers may penetrate the filling layer to support the second layer.

[0022] The first substrate may include a non-display area that does not overlap the display area, and the edge bank may surround the display area and may be in the non-display area.

[0023] The plurality of edge spacers may be formed along an outer region of the edge bank.

[0024] The bank may include an active bank in the display area, and an active spacer may be formed on the active bank.

[0025] The active spacer and the plurality of edge spacers may be formed at substantially the same point in time.

[0026] The active spacer and the plurality of edge spacers may be formed of an acrylic material. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] The drawings, together with the specification, illustrate embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, and, together with the description, serve to explain principles of the embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0028] Figure 1 is a schematic plan view illustrating a display device according to an embodiment.

[0029] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a display device according to an embodiment.

[0030] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a display area of ​​a display device according to an embodiment.

[0031] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a region where a display region and a non-display region of a display device according to an embodiment are adjacent to each other.

[0032] Figure 5 is a plan view illustrating an example of a bank and a spacer included in a display device.

[0033] Figure 6 is a plan view illustrating another embodiment of a bank and a spacer included in a display device.

[0034] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method of manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment.

[0035] Figures 8 to 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a method of manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be made to the subject matter of the present disclosure without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure, and exemplary embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and explained in the detailed description. However, it should be understood that this is not intended to limit the present disclosure to the specific disclosed form, and the present disclosure includes all modifications, equivalents and substitutes included in the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0037] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, it should be noted that only the parts related to understanding the operation according to the present disclosure will be described, and the description of other parts will be omitted to facilitate understanding of the subject matter of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described below, but can also be implemented in other forms. On the contrary, these embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will be detailed and complete, and will fully convey the subject matter of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0038] Throughout the specification, it will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another element, it may be directly coupled or connected to another element, or an intervening element may be present therebetween. The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing example embodiments and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Throughout the specification, unless explicitly described to the contrary, the words "include" and variations will be understood to imply the inclusion of stated elements, but do not exclude any other elements. "At least any one of X, Y, and Z" and "at least any one of the group consisting of X, Y, and Z" may be interpreted as each of X, Y, and Z or a combination of two or more of X, Y, and Z (e.g., XYZ, XYY, YZ, and ZZ). As used herein, "and / or" includes one or more combinations of corresponding parts.

[0039] It will be understood that although the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element from another element. Therefore, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, the first element described below may also be referred to as the second element or the third element.

[0040] Spatially relative terms such as "below", "below", "down", "above", "on", etc. may be used herein for descriptive purposes, and thereby describe the relationship between an element or feature and another element or feature as shown in the drawings. In addition to the orientation depicted in the drawings, spatially relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device in use, operation and / or manufacture. For example, if the device in the drawings is flipped, the element described as being "below" or "below" other elements or features will then be oriented to be "above" other elements or features. Therefore, in one embodiment, the term "below" can cover both above and below orientations. In addition, the device can be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and for this reason, the spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0041] Various embodiments are described with reference to the accompanying drawings that may schematically illustrate idealized embodiments. Accordingly, it is expected that shapes may vary depending on, for example, tolerances and / or manufacturing techniques. Accordingly, the embodiments disclosed herein should not be interpreted as limited to the example shapes shown herein, but should be interpreted as including shape deviations caused by, for example, manufacturing. As such, the shapes shown in the accompanying drawings may not depict the actual shape of an area of ​​the device, and the present embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0042] Figure 1 is a schematic plan view illustrating a display device according to an embodiment.

[0043] refer to Figure 1 The display device DD may include a substrate BSL and sub-pixels SPX on the substrate BSL. The display device DD may further include a driving circuit unit (eg, a scan driver and a data driver) for driving the sub-pixels SPX, the lines, and the pads.

[0044] The display device DD may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA. The non-display area NDA may refer to an area other than the display area DA. The non-display area NDA may surround at least a portion of the display area DA. In an embodiment, the non-display area NDA may not overlap with the display area DA.

[0045] The substrate BSL may form a base surface of the display device DD. The substrate BSL may be a rigid or flexible substrate or film. For example, the substrate BSL may be a rigid substrate made of glass (e.g., tempered glass), a flexible substrate (or film) made of plastic (or polymer), metal and / or at least one insulating layer. There is no particular limitation on the material and / or physical properties of the substrate BSL. In an embodiment, the substrate BSL may be substantially transparent. Here, the term "substantially transparent" may mean that light can be transmitted at a set or specific transmittance level or a higher transmittance level. In other embodiments, the substrate BSL may be translucent or opaque. According to an embodiment, the substrate BSL may include a reflective material.

[0046] The substrate BSL may be a first substrate BS1 (in Figure 3 For example, the first substrate BS1 may form a lower base.

[0047] The display area DA may refer to an area where the sub-pixel SPX is provided. The non-display area NDA may refer to an area where the sub-pixel SPX is not provided. A driving circuit unit, lines, and pads connected to the sub-pixel SPX of the display area DA may be in the non-display area NDA.

[0048] According to an embodiment, the sub-pixel SPX may be arranged in a stripe or The RGBG array may be provided in an arrangement structure (eg, an RGBG matrix, an RGBG structure, or an RGBG matrix structure), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. is an officially registered trademark of Samsung Display Co., Ltd. Various embodiments can be applied to the present disclosure.

[0049] According to an embodiment, the sub-pixel SPX may include a first sub-pixel SPX1, a second sub-pixel SPX2, and a third sub-pixel SPX3. The first sub-pixel SPX1, the second sub-pixel SPX2, and the third sub-pixel SPX3 may each be a sub-pixel. At least one first sub-pixel SPX1, at least one second sub-pixel SPX2, and at least one third sub-pixel SPX3 may form a pixel unit capable of emitting light having various suitable colors.

[0050] For example, each of the first sub-pixel SPX1, the second sub-pixel SPX2, and the third sub-pixel SPX3 may emit light having one color. For example, the first sub-pixel SPX1 may be a red pixel that emits light having red (e.g., the first color), the second sub-pixel SPX2 may be a green pixel that emits light having green (e.g., the second color), and the third sub-pixel SPX3 may be a blue pixel that emits light having blue (e.g., the third color). According to an embodiment, the number of the second sub-pixels SPX2 may be greater than each of the number of the first sub-pixels SPX1 and the number of the third sub-pixels SPX3. However, the colors, types (or kinds), and / or numbers of the first sub-pixels SPX1, the second sub-pixels SPX2, and the third sub-pixels SPX3 that form each pixel unit are not limited to specific examples.

[0051] Next, we will refer to Figure 2 A cross-sectional structure of the display device DD is described. Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a display device according to an embodiment.

[0052] refer to Figure 2 , the display device DD may include a substrate BSL, a pixel circuit layer PCL, and a light emitting element layer EML.

[0053] The substrate BSL may form a base on which the pixel circuit layer PCL and the light emitting element layer EML are provided.

[0054] The pixel circuit layer PCL may be on the substrate BSL. The pixel circuit layer PCL may include a pixel circuit for driving the light emitting element LD. The pixel circuit layer PCL may include a conductive layer (eg, an electrically conductive layer) for forming the pixel circuit and an insulating layer (eg, an electrically insulating layer) between the conductive layers.

[0055] The pixel circuit may include a thin film transistor. The pixel circuit may include a driving transistor. The pixel circuit may be electrically connected to the light emitting element LD to provide an electrical signal for allowing the light emitting element LD to emit light.

[0056] The light emitting element layer EML may be on the pixel circuit layer PCL. According to an embodiment, the light emitting element layer EML may include a light emitting element LD and a pixel defining layer PDL.

[0057] The light emitting element LD may include an organic light emitting diode (OLED).

[0058] The light emitting element LD may be on the pixel circuit layer PCL. According to an embodiment, the light emitting element LD may include a first electrode ELT1, an emission layer EL, and a second electrode ELT2. According to an embodiment, the emission layer EL may be in a region defined by a pixel defining layer PDL. The pixel defining layer PDL may be adjacent to the periphery of the emission layer EL. One surface of the emission layer EL may be electrically connected to the first electrode ELT1, and the other surface of the emission layer EL may be electrically connected to the second electrode ELT2.

[0059] The first electrode ELT1 may be an anode with respect to the emission layer EL, and the second electrode ELT2 may be a common electrode (or cathode) with respect to the emission layer EL. According to an embodiment, the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2 may include a conductive material (e.g., an electrically conductive material). For example, the first electrode ELT1 may include a conductive material (e.g., an electrically conductive material) having a reflective property, and the second electrode ELT2 may include a transparent conductive material (e.g., a transparent electrically conductive material). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0060] The emission layer EL may have a multi-layer thin film structure including a light generating layer. The emission layer EL may include a hole injection layer for injecting holes, a hole transport layer having excellent hole transport characteristics and suppressing or reducing the movement of electrons not bound in the light generating layer to increase the probability of recombination between holes and electrons, a light generating layer that emits light through recombination between injected electrons and holes, a hole blocking layer for suppressing or reducing the movement of holes not bound in the light generating layer, an electron transport layer for smoothly transporting electrons to the light generating layer, and an electron injection layer for injecting electrons. The emission layer EL may emit light based on an electrical signal provided from the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2.

[0061] The emission layer EL may form one of the sub-pixels SPX. The emission layer EL may form a sub-pixel region SPXA that emits light having one color. In a plan view, a region of the emission layer EL may correspond to the sub-pixel region SPXA. For example, each emission layer EL may correspond to each sub-pixel region SPXA.

[0062] The pixel defining layer PDL may be on the pixel circuit layer PCL to define the position where the emission layer EL is provided. The pixel defining layer PDL may include an organic material. According to an embodiment, the pixel defining layer PDL may include at least one selected from the group consisting of acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin and polyimide resin. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0063] In some embodiments, an insulating layer may be on the second electrode ELT2.

[0064] According to an embodiment, the insulating layer may be a capping layer for the light emitting element LD.

[0065] Next, we will refer to Figure 3 A cross-sectional structure of a display device DD including a color conversion layer CCL in a display area DA according to an embodiment is described. Contents that may overlap with the above content will be briefly described or not repeated.

[0066] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a display area of ​​a display device according to an embodiment.

[0067] refer to Figure 3 The display device DD may include a first layer BL, a second layer UL, and a filling layer FIL between the first layer BL and the second layer UL. The first layer BL may be a lower layer of the display device DD. The second layer UL may be an upper layer of the display device DD.

[0068] The first layer BL and the second layer UL may be combined with each other with the filling layer FIL interposed therebetween. For example, after forming the first layer BL and forming the second layer UL, the filling layer FIL may be interposed between the first layer BL and the second layer UL, and then the first layer BL may be coupled to the second layer UL.

[0069] The first layer BL may include a pixel circuit layer PCL, a light emitting element layer EML, an encapsulation layer TFE, and a color conversion layer CCL on the first substrate BS1.

[0070] The emission layer EL forming the light emitting element LD may include a first emission layer EL1 , a second emission layer EL2 , and a third emission layer EL3 .

[0071] For example, the display device DD may include a first sub-pixel SPX1, a second sub-pixel SPX2, and a third sub-pixel SPX3, each of which forms a sub-pixel area SPXA. The sub-pixel area SPXA may include a first sub-pixel area SPXA1 formed by the first sub-pixel SPX1 and emitting light having a first color, a second sub-pixel area SPXA2 formed by the second sub-pixel SPX2 and emitting light having a second color, and a third sub-pixel area SPXA3 formed by the third sub-pixel SPX3 and emitting light having a third color.

[0072] According to an embodiment, the light emitting element LD of the first subpixel SPX1 may include the first emission layer EL1. The light emitting element LD of the second subpixel SPX2 may include the second emission layer EL2. The light emitting element LD of the third subpixel SPX3 may include the third emission layer EL3.

[0073] According to an embodiment, the first emission layer EL1 may emit light having a first color, the second emission layer EL2 may emit light having a second color, and the third emission layer EL3 may emit light having a third color. However, the present disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0074] The color conversion layer CCL may be on the light emitting element layer EML. The color conversion layer CCL may include a bank BNK, a first color conversion portion CCL1, a second color conversion portion CCL2, a scattering portion LSL (light scattering portion LSL), and a first insulating layer INS1.

[0075] According to the display device DD according to the embodiment, the first and second color conversion portions CCL1 and CCL2 corresponding to the colors of the first, second and third subpixels SPX1, SPX2 and SPX3 and the scattering portion LSL may display a full-color image.

[0076] The encapsulation layer TFE may be on the light emitting element layer EML. When the encapsulation layer TFE is in the form of an encapsulation film, the encapsulation layer TFE may include an inorganic film and / or an organic film.

[0077] The bank BNK may be on the encapsulation layer TFE. The bank BNK may be in contact with the encapsulation layer TFE. For example, the bank BNK may be patterned on the encapsulation layer TFE.

[0078] The bank BNK may protrude in the thickness direction (e.g., the third direction DR3) of the substrate BSL and may surround a region. For example, the bank BNK may surround a region where the first color conversion portion CCL1, the second color conversion portion CCL2, and / or the scattering portion LSL are provided. The bank BNK may define a region where the first color conversion portion CCL1, the second color conversion portion CCL2, or the scattering portion LSL is provided.

[0079] The bank BNK may be patterned during the process of forming the first layer BL based on the first substrate BS1. Accordingly, the bank BNK may be below the filling layer FIL. For example, the bank BNK may be between the filling layer FIL and the light emitting element layer EML.

[0080] The bank BNK may include an organic material. For example, the bank BNK may include at least one selected from the group consisting of acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin, and polyimide resin. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0081] The first color conversion portion CCL1 and the second color conversion portion CCL2 may be configured to convert or change the wavelength of light. The first color conversion portion CCL1 and the second color conversion portion CCL2 and the scattering portion LSL may be on the light emitting element layer EML. The first color conversion portion CCL1 and the second color conversion portion CCL2 and the scattering portion LSL may be below the color filters CF1, CF2, and CF3. The first color conversion portion CCL1 and the second color conversion portion CCL2 and the scattering portion LSL may be between the color filters CF1, CF2, and CF3 and the light emitting element layer EML. The first color conversion portion CCL1 and the second color conversion portion CCL2 and the scattering portion LSL may be provided (or patterned) in a region surrounded by a dam BNK protruding in a thickness direction (e.g., a third direction DR3) of the substrate BSL.

[0082] The first color conversion portion CCL1 may include first color conversion particles that convert light having a third color (e.g., blue) emitted from the blue emission layer into light having a first color (e.g., red light). For example, the first color conversion portion CCL1 may include a plurality of first quantum dots QD1 dispersed in a matrix material such as a base resin. The first quantum dots QD1 may absorb blue light and shift the wavelength of the light according to energy transition to emit red light.

[0083] The second color conversion portion CCL2 may include second color conversion particles that convert light having a third color (e.g., blue) emitted from the blue emission layer into light having a second color (e.g., green light). For example, the second color conversion portion CCL2 may include a plurality of second quantum dots QD2 dispersed in a matrix material such as a base resin. The second quantum dots QD2 may absorb blue light and shift the wavelength of the light according to energy transition to emit green light.

[0084] In one embodiment, blue light having a relatively short wavelength in the visible light region may be incident on each of the first quantum dot QD1 and the second quantum dot QD2, thereby increasing the absorption coefficient of the first quantum dot QD1 and the second quantum dot QD2. Accordingly, the efficiency of light emitted from the first sub-pixel SPX1 and the second sub-pixel SPX2 may be improved, and at the same time (e.g., at the same time), excellent color reproduction may be ensured.

[0085] The scattering portion LSL may be provided to effectively use the light having a third color (e.g., blue) emitted from the blue emission layer. For example, the scattering portion LSL may include a scatterer SCT (e.g., a light scatterer SCT). As an example, the scatterer SCT of the scattering portion LSL may include various suitable light scattering particles and / or light scattering materials. For example, the scatterer SCT may include a material selected from silicon oxide (SiO x ) (e.g., silica beads or hollow silica), titanium oxide (TiO x )、ZrO x ), aluminum oxide (Al x O y ), indium oxide (In x O y )、ZnO、SnO x ) and antimony oxide (Sb x O y ) is at least one of the group consisting of . However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the scatterer SCT may be not only in the scattering portion LSL, but may be optionally included in the first color conversion portion CCL1 or the second color conversion portion CCL2. According to an embodiment, the scatterer SCT may be omitted, and thus the scattering portion LSL made of a transparent polymer may be provided.

[0086] The first insulating layer INS1 may be on the bank BNK, the first and second color conversion portions CCL1 and CCL2, and the scattering portion LSL. The first insulating layer INS1 may be a capping layer for the color conversion layer CCL. For example, the first insulating layer INS1 may cap the first and second color conversion portions CCL1 and CCL2.

[0087] The first insulating layer INS1 may include an inorganic material. The inorganic material may include a material selected from silicon nitride (SiN x ), silicon oxide (SiO x ), silicon oxynitride (SiO x N y ) and aluminum oxide (Al x O y ) is at least one of the group consisting of. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0088] The filling layer FIL may be between the first layer BL and the second layer UL. For example, the filling layer FIL may be between the color filter layer CFL and the color conversion layer CCL. The filling layer FIL may be between the first insulating layer INS1 and the second insulating layer INS2.

[0089] The filling layer FIL may fill the space between the first layer BL and the second layer UL. The filling layer FIL may include a material capable of transmitting light. For example, the filling layer FIL may include a silicon-based organic material, an epoxy-based organic material, and / or an epoxy acrylic organic material. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the filling layer FIL may include various suitable materials.

[0090] One surface of the filling layer FIL may be covered by the first insulating layer INS1, and the other surface of the filling layer FIL may be covered by the second insulating layer INS2. One surface of the filling layer FIL may contact the first insulating layer INS1, and the other surface of the filling layer FIL may contact the second insulating layer INS2.

[0091] The spacer CS may include an active spacer CS_A, an edge spacer CS_E (see Figure 4 ) and the outer spacer CS_O (see Figure 4 ). The spacer CS may be between the first layer BL and the second layer UL. Accordingly, when the first layer BL and the second layer UL are coupled to each other, the spacer CS may prevent the first layer BL and the second layer UL from colliding with each other (or reduce the possibility or degree thereof).

[0092] The spacer CS may include an organic material. According to an embodiment, the spacer CS may include an acrylic material. However, this is only an example, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the active spacer CS_A and the plurality of edge spacers CS_E may be formed of an acrylic material. For example, the active spacer CS_A and the plurality of edge spacers CS_E may be formed at substantially the same time point.

[0093] The active spacer CS_A may be between the first insulating layer INS1 and the second insulating layer INS2. For example, the active spacer CS_A may be on the first insulating layer INS1 to separate the first insulating layer INS1 from the second insulating layer INS2.

[0094] The second layer UL may include one or more layers on the second substrate BS2. For example, the second layer UL may include a second insulating layer INS2 and a color filter layer CFL.

[0095] The color filter layer CFL may be on the filling layer FIL. The color filter layer CFL may include a first color filter CF1, a second color filter CF2, and a third color filter CF3.

[0096] The second insulating layer INS2 may be on the filling layer FIL. The second insulating layer INS2 may be a capping layer for the color filter layer CFL and the low refractive index layer LRL.

[0097] The second insulating layer INS2 may include an inorganic material. The inorganic material may include a material selected from silicon nitride (SiN x ), silicon oxide (SiO x ), silicon oxynitride (SiO x N y ) and aluminum oxide (Al x O y ) is at least one of the group consisting of. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0098] The low refractive index layer LRL may be on the second insulating layer INS2. For example, the low refractive index layer LRL may be between the second insulating layer INS2 and the first, second, and third color filters CF1, CF2, and CF3.

[0099] The low refractive index layer LRL may have a relatively low refractive index compared to the color conversion layer CCL. Accordingly, the low refractive index layer LRL may completely reflect the light emitted from the color conversion layer CCL, thereby improving the luminous efficiency of the sub-pixel SPX. For example, the low refractive index layer LRL may completely reflect the light emitted from the color conversion layer CCL and traveling in an oblique direction.

[0100] The first color filter CF1, the second color filter CF2, and the third color filter CF3 can selectively transmit light having one color. According to an embodiment, a full-color image can be displayed by providing the first color filter CF1, the second color filter CF2, and the third color filter CF3 corresponding to the colors of the first subpixel SPX1, the second subpixel SPX2, and the third subpixel SPX3, respectively.

[0101] The first color filter CF1 may be a color filter corresponding to the color of the first subpixel SPX1 and may overlap the first subpixel area SPXA1 when viewed from above. The first color filter CF1 may selectively transmit light having a first color. The first color filter CF1 may be a red color filter and may include a red color filter material.

[0102] The second color filter CF2 may be a color filter corresponding to the color of the second sub-pixel SPX2 and may overlap the second sub-pixel area SPXA2 when viewed from above. The second color filter CF2 may selectively transmit light having a second color. The second color filter CF2 may be a green color filter and may include a green color filter material.

[0103] The third color filter CF3 may be a color filter corresponding to the color of the third sub-pixel SPX3 and may overlap the third sub-pixel area SPXA3 when viewed from above. The third color filter CF3 may selectively transmit light having a third color. The third color filter CF3 may be a blue color filter and may include a blue color filter material.

[0104] According to an embodiment, the first color filter CF1, the second color filter CF2, and the third color filter CF3 may overlap each other when viewed from above and form a light blocking layer LBL. The light blocking layer LBL may be between each sub-pixel area SPXA. However, the present disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto, and according to an embodiment, a separate light blocking material may be between each sub-pixel area SPXA to form the light blocking layer LBL.

[0105] The upper substrate UPL may be on the color filter layer CFL. The upper substrate UPL may form a base for patterning one or more layers when forming the second layer UL.

[0106] The upper substrate UPL may be a second substrate BS2. For example, the second substrate BS2 may form an upper base. The second substrate BS2 may be spaced apart from the first substrate BS1 in the third direction DR3 and may face the first substrate BS1.

[0107] The upper substrate UPL may include at least one of the materials described above with reference to the substrate BSL. The upper substrate UPL may include the same material as that of the substrate BSL. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the upper substrate UPL may include a material different from that of the substrate BSL.

[0108] Next, refer to Figure 4 , a cross-sectional structure of a display device DD including a color conversion layer CCL according to an embodiment will be described in an area where a display area DA and a non-display area NDA are adjacent to each other. Contents that may overlap with the above content will be briefly described or not repeated.

[0109] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a region where a display region and a non-display region of a display device according to an embodiment are adjacent to each other.

[0110] refer to Figure 4 , a substrate BSL (ie, a lower substrate), an upper substrate UPL, and a filling layer FIL may be in the display area DA and the non-display area NDA.

[0111] The via layer VIA may be on the pixel circuit layer PCL. For example, the via layer VIA may be an organic planarization layer that may cover and planarize the pixel circuit elements of the pixel circuit layer PCL. According to an embodiment, the via layer VIA may be an inorganic insulating film including an inorganic material. The pixel defining layer PDL may be provided and / or formed on the via layer VIA.

[0112] The encapsulation layer TFE may be on the pixel defining layer PDL. The encapsulation layer TFE may sequentially include first to third encapsulation layers EN1 to EN3 in the third direction DR3.

[0113] The first encapsulation layer EN1 and the third encapsulation layer EN3 may be inorganic layers including inorganic materials, and the second encapsulation layer EN2 may be an organic layer including organic materials. The first encapsulation layer EN1 and the third encapsulation layer EN3 may protect the sub-pixel SPX from moisture and oxygen. The second encapsulation layer EN2 may protect the sub-pixel SPX from foreign matter such as dust particles.

[0114] The color conversion layer CCL may be on the encapsulation layer TFE. The color conversion layer CCL may be spaced apart from the second substrate BS2. For example, the color conversion layer CCL may not contact the second insulating layer INS2.

[0115] The bank BNK may include an edge bank BNK_E and an active bank BNK_A. The edge bank BNK_E may be placed in the non-display area NDA. For example, the edge bank BNK_E may surround the display area DA and may be in the non-display area NDA. The active bank BNK_A may be in the display area DA. For example, the active bank BNK_A may be a bank pattern in the display area DA.

[0116] A plurality of dam structures DAM1 to DAM3 may be disposed in the non-display area NDA. For example, the first to third dam structures DAM1 to DAM3 may be on the first substrate BS1 to be sequentially spaced apart from the display area DA. Figure 4 , the dam structure is illustrated as being provided as three dam structures, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0117] The first to third dam structures DAM1 to DAM3 may have a trapezoidal-shaped cross-section in which the width gradually decreases upward in the third direction DR3, but the shape is not limited as long as the shape can prevent or reduce the second encapsulation layer EN2 from overflowing into the non-display area NDA spaced a set distance or a specific distance from the display area DA.

[0118] The sealing portion SEL may be in the non-display area NDA. The sealing portion SEL may be provided along the outer edge of the display device DD. For example, the sealing portion SEL may surround the non-display area NDA and the display area DA. The sealing portion SEL may include a material in which a sealant is cured. For example, the sealant may include an ultraviolet (UV) curable material and / or a thermally curable material, and according to an embodiment, the sealant may include at least one selected from the group consisting of a silicone resin, an epoxy resin, an acrylic resin, and a polyimide resin. However, the present disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0119] The outer spacer CS_O may be on the sealing portion SEL. The outer spacer CS_O may be on the sealing portion SEL to support the second layer UL. For example, the outer spacer CS_O may be on the sealing portion SEL to contact the second insulating layer INS2. Accordingly, the outer spacer CS_O may fill the gap that may exist between the sealing portion SEL and the second layer UL.

[0120] The edge spacer CS_E and the active spacer CS_A may be on the color conversion layer CCL. For example, the edge spacer CS_E and the active spacer CS_A may be on the first insulating layer INS1.

[0121] The edge spacer CS_E and the active spacer CS_A may overlap with the bank BNK. For example, the edge spacer CS_E may overlap with the edge bank BNK_E, and the active spacer CS_A may overlap with the active bank BNK_A.

[0122] The edge spacer CS_E and the active spacer CS_A may have a cross-section having an inverted trapezoidal shape. For example, the edge spacer CS_E and the active spacer CS_A may have a cross-section having an inverted trapezoidal shape, wherein the width increases upward in the third direction DR3. However, the shape is not limited as long as the shape can support the second layer UL. For example, a plurality of edge spacers CS_E may pass through the filling layer FIL to support the second layer UL.

[0123] In some embodiments, the filling layer FIL may fill the empty space existing between the first layer BL and the second layer UL through the edge spacer CS_E. For example, when the first layer BL and the second layer UL are coupled, the edge spacer CS_E may maintain a state in which the edge bank BNK_E and the second layer UL are spaced apart from each other. Accordingly, the filler may stably flow from the display area DA to the non-display area NDA through the separation space between the edge bank BNK_E and the second layer UL. For example, the filler may flow in a direction opposite to the first direction DR1, and thus the filling layer FIL may be formed to fill the entire empty space between the first layer BL and the second layer UL.

[0124] In an embodiment where there is no structure for supporting the upper layer on the edge dam, when the lower layer and the upper layer are connected, the edge dam and the upper layer may contact each other. Accordingly, there may be no separation space between the edge dam and the upper layer. In some embodiments, the filler may not diffuse to the edge of the display device, and therefore there may be an empty space between the upper layer and the lower layer where a filling layer is not formed. When there is a space where a filling layer is not formed, there may be a risk of moisture penetrating into the space during the display device manufacturing process.

[0125] In some embodiments, when there is an empty space between the upper layer and the lower layer where the filling layer is not formed, the coupling force between the upper layer and the lower layer may be reduced. For example, the coupling between the upper layer and the lower layer may be maintained by the adhesive strength of the filling layer. In some embodiments, when there is a space where there is no filling layer, the coupling force between the upper layer and the lower layer may be weakened, and thus the upper layer and the lower layer may be separated. For example, the elasticity of the upper layer and the lower layer may occur in the non-display area, and there may be a risk of damage to at least a portion of each layer.

[0126] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the edge spacer CS_E may be on the edge bank BNK_E. Accordingly, the filling layer FIL may be formed to fill the entire empty space between the first layer BL and the second layer UL, and the risk of moisture penetrating into the space between the first layer BL and the second layer UL and / or the risk of damaging a portion of each of the first layer BL and the second layer UL may be minimized or at least reduced. Accordingly, the reliability of the process of manufacturing the display device DD may be improved.

[0127] Figure 5 is a plan view illustrating an example of a bank and a spacer included in a display device. Figure 6 is a plan view illustrating another embodiment of a bank and a spacer included in a display device.

[0128] exist Figures 5 and 6 In the figure, for the convenience of description, only a part of the dam BNK is schematically illustrated.

[0129] refer to Figure 1 and Figures 5 and 6 , the display device DD may include a bank BNK to form a sub-pixel SPX.

[0130] The bank BNK may extend in a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. The bank BNK may separate the sub-pixel region SPXA of the sub-pixel SPX. The light emitting element LD may be in an opening of the bank BNK. For example, a portion where the bank BNK is located may be a non-emission region, and the opening of the bank BNK may be a sub-pixel region SPXA.

[0131] The edge bank BNK_E may be an edge region of the bank BNK. For example, the edge bank BNK_E may be a structure surrounding the display area DA.

[0132] The edge bank BNK_E may define a boundary between the display area DA and the non-display area NDA. For example, the edge bank BNK_E may include an inner surface ID overlapping an imaginary line existing at a boundary between the display area DA and the non-display area NDA, and an outer surface OD opposite to the inner surface ID in a direction opposite to the second direction DR2. Accordingly, the inner surface ID of the edge bank BNK_E may define a boundary between the display area DA and the non-display area NDA.

[0133] The edge bank BNK_E may include a first edge bank BNK_E1 and a second edge bank BNK_E2. The first edge bank BNK_E1 may be in the second direction DR2, and the second edge bank BNK_E2 may be in the first direction DR1.

[0134] The edge spacer CS_E may include a first edge spacer CS_E1 and a second edge spacer CS_E2. The first edge spacer CS_E1 may be on the first edge bank BNK_E1, and the second edge spacer CS_E2 may be placed on the second edge bank BNK_E2. For example, the first edge spacer CS_E1 may be on the first edge bank BNK_E1 in the second direction DR2, and the second edge spacer CS_E2 may be on the second edge bank BNK_E2 in the first direction DR1.

[0135] The edge spacer CS_E may have a circular shape in a plan view. According to an embodiment, the edge spacer CS_E may have a polygonal shape in a plan view. For example, the edge spacer CS_E may have a triangular or quadrilateral shape, and the shape is not limited thereto as long as the shape can stably support the second layer UL on the bank BNK (see Figure 4 ).

[0136] Each edge spacer CS_E may be provided along an outer region of the edge bank BNK_E. The outer region may be a region of the edge bank BNK_E closer to the outer surface OD of the edge bank BNK_E than the inner surface ID of the edge bank BNK_E. Accordingly, the edge spacer CS_E may be on the edge bank BNK_E to be closer to the outer surface OD of the edge bank BNK_E than the inner surface ID of the edge bank BNK_E. For example, the second edge spacer CS_E2 may be provided in the first direction DR1 to be close to the outer surface OD of the second edge bank BNK_E2.

[0137] The active bank BNK_A may have a set or specific pattern in the display area DA. For example, the active bank BNK_A may have a grid-like pattern in the display area DA.

[0138] The active spacer CS_A may be on the active bank BNK_A. For example, the active spacer CS_A may be on the active bank BNK_A in the first direction DR1 and / or the second direction DR2.

[0139] According to an embodiment, the active spacer CS_A may be in an intersection region between patterns of the active bank BNK_A. For example, the active bank BNK_A may include a first portion extending in a first direction DR1 and a second portion extending in a second direction DR2. The active spacer CS_A may be in an intersection region between the first portion and the second portion of the active bank BNK_A.

[0140] refer to Figure 6 , the edge spacers CS_E may be provided in two or more rows. For example, the edge spacers CS_E may be provided in two or more rows or columns. For example, the first edge spacers CS_E1 may be provided in two or more columns (e.g., vertical rows) on the first edge dam BNK_E1, and the second edge spacers CS_E2 may be provided in two or more rows (e.g., horizontal rows) on the second edge dam BNK_E2. For example, a plurality of edge spacers CS_E may be provided along a first row on the edge dam BNK_E and a second row spaced apart from the first row. Figure 6 , the edge spacers CS_E are illustrated as being provided in two rows or two columns, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0141] Next, we will refer to Figures 7 to 11 A method of manufacturing a display device DD according to an embodiment is described. Contents that may overlap with the aforementioned contents are briefly explained or not repeated.

[0142] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method of manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment. Figures 8 to 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a method of manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment.

[0143] refer to Figure 7 , a method for manufacturing a display device DD may include: forming a first layer on a first substrate including a display area (S710), forming a second layer on a second substrate facing the first substrate (S720), forming a plurality of edge spacers on the second layer (S730), and coupling the first layer and the second layer (S740).

[0144] refer to Figure 3 and Figures 7 and 8 , in S710 , a first substrate BS1 may be prepared, and a first layer BL may be on the first substrate BS1 .

[0145] In this operation, a material for forming the pixel circuit layer PCL, the light emitting element layer EML, and the color conversion layer CCL may be patterned on the first substrate BS1.

[0146] In the present specification, a conductive layer (eg, an electrically conductive layer) and an insulating layer (eg, an electrically insulating layer) may be formed by any suitable patterning process (eg, a photolithography process) using a mask generally used in the art.

[0147] In this operation, when the light emitting element layer EML is formed, after the second electrode ELT2 is patterned, an insulating layer for capping the light emitting element LD may be formed. An encapsulation layer TFE may be formed on the corresponding insulating layer, and a dam BNK may be patterned on the encapsulation layer TFE. The dam BNK may include an organic material and may be patterned to cover the pixel circuit layer PCL and the light emitting element layer EML. After the dam BNK is patterned, the first color conversion portion CCL1 and the second color conversion portion CCL2 and the scattering portion LSL (e.g., the light scattering portion LSL) may be patterned.

[0148] refer to Figure 7 and Fig. 9 In S720 , a second substrate BS2 may be prepared, and a second layer UL may be on the second substrate BS2 .

[0149] In this operation, the material for forming the color filter layer CFL may be patterned on the second substrate BS2. Figure 3 One or more layers described may be on the second substrate BS2. For example, the color filter layer CFL and the low refractive index layer LRL may be formed, and then the second insulating layer INS2 may be formed.

[0150] refer to Figure 7 and Fig.10 , in S730 , a plurality of edge spacers CS_E may be formed on the second layer UL.

[0151] Also refer to Figure 4 , a plurality of spacers CS may be formed on the second insulating layer INS2. For example, an edge spacer CS_E and an active spacer CS_A may be formed on the second insulating layer INS2.

[0152] According to an embodiment, the spacer CS may be formed by a photolithography process. For example, an organic material layer may be applied on the second insulating layer INS2, and the organic material layer may be exposed. Thereafter, the organic material layer may be developed and cured to form the spacer CS.

[0153] refer to Figure 7 and Fig.11In S740 , the first layer BL and the second layer UL may be coupled to each other with the filling layer FIL interposed therebetween.

[0154] In this operation, the filling layer FIL may be interposed between the first layer BL and the second layer UL, the sealing portion SEL may be provided along the outer area, and the outer spacer CS_O may be on the sealing portion SEL. Thereafter, the first layer BL and the second layer UL may be vacuum pressed to be adjacent to each other. Accordingly, the filling layer FIL may be compressed, and may be diffused and provided throughout the display area DA and the non-display area NDA. In some embodiments, the sealing portion SEL may limit the area where the filling layer FIL is provided, and may seal other components. For example, a sealant may be provided along the edge of the display device DD and cured to form the sealing portion SEL. Accordingly, a display device DD according to an embodiment may be manufactured.

[0155] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the edge spacer CS_E and the active spacer CS_A may be on the second layer UL, and thus the filling layer FIL may be provided to the gap between the first layer BL and the second layer UL. In some embodiments, the edge spacer CS_E may be provided, and thus the filling layer FIL may be stably provided up to the area adjacent to the sealing portion SEL. Therefore, as described above, the filling layer FIL may be formed to fill the entire empty space between the first layer BL and the second layer UL, and the reliability of the process of manufacturing the display device DD may be improved.

[0156] The display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be manufactured to have improved reliability by including a plurality of edge spacers on the edge bank.

[0157] The effects according to the embodiment are not limited to the above, and more various effects are included in this specification.

[0158] Although example embodiments and applications have been described herein, other embodiments and modifications may be derived from the above description. Accordingly, the disclosure is not limited to these embodiments, but rather to the broader scope of the presented claims and various obvious modifications and equivalent arrangements.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: a first layer on a first substrate including a display area, and the first layer includes a color conversion layer including a bank protruding in a thickness direction of the first substrate and a color conversion portion in a region surrounded by the bank and including quantum dots; a second layer, on a second substrate facing the first substrate; a filling layer between the first layer and the second layer; and A plurality of edge spacers are provided on an edge bank, the edge bank being one of the banks surrounding the display area. 2 . The display device of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of edge spacers space the edge bank apart from the second layer. 3 . The display device of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of edge spacers penetrate the filling layer to support the second layer.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the first substrate comprises a non-display area that does not overlap with the display area, The edge bank surrounds the display area and is in the non-display area, and The plurality of edge spacers are provided along an outer region of the edge bank. 5 . The display device of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of edge spacers are provided along a first row on the edge bank and a second row spaced apart from the first row.

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the dam comprises an active dam in the display area, and Active spacers are on the active dams. 7 . The display device of claim 6 , wherein the active spacer and the plurality of edge spacers are formed at the same time point. 8 . The display device of claim 6 , wherein the active spacer and the plurality of edge spacers comprise an acrylic material.

9. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the color conversion layer further comprises a first insulating layer covering the color conversion portion, The second layer includes a color filter layer and a second insulating layer, the color filter layer includes a color filter, and the second insulating layer covers the color filter. The filling layer has one surface in contact with the first insulating layer and another surface in contact with the second insulating layer, and The plurality of edge spacers are in contact with the second insulating layer and the first insulating layer.

10. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the first layer further comprises a light emitting element layer, the light emitting element layer comprises a light emitting element, and The color conversion portion is configured to convert a wavelength of light emitted from the light emitting element.

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