Apparatus for manufacturing display device, method for manufacturing display device, and display device

Abstract

The invention relates to an apparatus for manufacturing a display device, a method of manufacturing a display device, and a display device. An apparatus of manufacturing a display device may include: a reservoir receiving ink including a light emitting element and a solvent; an element movement control module including a conduit portion defining an ink passage fluidly connected to the reservoir, and an electrode portion disposed on a surface of the conduit portion; and a nozzle portion that ejects the ink outward. The element movement control module may operate in a first mode or a second mode. When the element movement control module operates in the first mode, movement of the light emitting element may be unrestricted. In a case where the element movement control module operates in the second mode, the electrode portion may form an electric field, and movement of the light emitting element in the ink channel may be restricted at least in a region corresponding to a position where the electrode portion is disposed.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0120596 filed in the Korean Intellectual Property Office on September 11, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] Various embodiments relate to an apparatus for manufacturing a display device (or a manufacturing apparatus), a method of manufacturing a display device using the manufacturing apparatus, and a display device manufactured by the method (or a manufacturing method). Background Art

[0004] Recently, as interest in information display increases, research and development of display devices have continued.

[0005] It will be understood that this "background technology section" is intended, in part, to provide a useful background for understanding the technology. However, this "background technology section" may also include ideas, concepts, or cognitions that were not known or understood by a person skilled in the relevant art before the corresponding effective filing date of the subject matter disclosed herein. Summary of the invention

[0006] Various embodiments relate to an apparatus for manufacturing a display device, a method for manufacturing a display device using the manufacturing apparatus, and a display device manufactured by the method, which can adjust the amount of light-emitting elements to reduce production costs and make the amount of light-emitting elements provided to pixels uniform.

[0007] An embodiment may provide an apparatus for manufacturing a display device, the apparatus may include: a reservoir, receiving ink including a light-emitting element and a solvent; an element movement control module, the element movement control module including a pipe portion defining an ink channel connected to a fluid of the reservoir, and an electrode portion disposed on a surface of the pipe portion; and a nozzle portion, ejecting ink outward. The element movement control module may operate in a first mode or a second mode. In the case where the element movement control module operates in the first mode, the movement of the light-emitting element may not be restricted. In the case where the element movement control module operates in the second mode, the electrode portion may form an electric field, and the movement of the light-emitting element in the ink channel may be restricted at least in an area corresponding to a position where the electrode portion is disposed.

[0008] In an embodiment, the conduit portion may include a material having substantially non-conductive properties that allows an electric field formed by the electrode portion to be formed in the ink channel.

[0009] In an embodiment, the electrode part may include a first side electrode and a second side electrode, the first side electrode and the second side electrode forming a pair and being spaced apart from each other, and the ink channel is provided between the first side electrode and the second side electrode.

[0010] In an embodiment, the conduit portion may be divided into a plurality of unit areas. The electrode portion may be disposed in a unit area among the plurality of unit areas. The volume of the ink channel in the unit area among the plurality of unit areas may correspond to the volume of an ink droplet of the ink when the ink is ejected once from the nozzle portion.

[0011] In an embodiment, the electrode portion may include a plurality of electrode portions spaced apart from each other in a longitudinal direction of the pipe portion. The plurality of electrode portions may include a first edge electrode portion adjacent to a first end of the one of the plurality of unit regions, a second edge electrode portion adjacent to a second end of the one of the plurality of unit regions, and an internal electrode portion disposed between the first edge electrode portion and the second edge electrode portion.

[0012] In an embodiment, the one unit region of the plurality of unit regions may include a plurality of sub-unit regions. The plurality of electrode portions may be adjacent to each other, and the plurality of sub-unit regions may be disposed between the plurality of electrode portions.

[0013] In an embodiment, the number of the plurality of sub-unit regions may be an even number of 4 or more.

[0014] In an embodiment, the element movement control module may operate the same unit time in each of the first mode and the second mode. The unit time may be the time taken for the ink to move through the plurality of sub-unit areas when moving in the ink channel.

[0015] In an embodiment, the element movement control module may be operated alternately in the first mode and the second mode.

[0016] In an embodiment, the apparatus may further include an inspection portion which is spaced apart from the electrode portion in a longitudinal direction of the pipe portion and may acquire information on movement of the light emitting element in the ink channel.

[0017] In an embodiment, when the inspection part obtains movement information of the light emitting element in some areas of the ink that are generally not included in the ink channel, after a period of time based on the distance between the inspection part and the electrode part, the element movement control module can continue to operate in the first mode, and after a further unit time, the element movement control module can enter the second mode.

[0018] In an embodiment, the nozzle portion and the element movement control module may be disposed in the print head portion. The device may further include: a main channel that fluidically connects the print head portion with the reservoir; and a body channel that is formed in the print head portion and fluidically connects the main channel with the ink channel. The diameter of the body channel may be greater than the diameter of the ink channel. The element movement control module may not be disposed in the body channel.

[0019] In an embodiment, the print head portion may further include a body conduit forming a recirculation channel fluidly connected to the ink channel. The recirculation channel may be fluidly connected to the reservoir. The body conduit may form a space in which the element movement control module is disposed.

[0020] An embodiment may provide a method for manufacturing a display device using an apparatus for manufacturing a display device. The apparatus may include: a reservoir, receiving ink including a light-emitting element and a solvent; an element movement control module, including a pipe portion defining an ink channel connected to a fluid of the reservoir, and an electrode portion disposed on a surface of the pipe portion, the element movement control module operating in a first mode or a second mode; and a nozzle portion, ejecting ink outward. The method may include: patterning a first electrode and a second electrode on a base layer; supplying ink provided from the nozzle portion onto the base layer; and aligning the light-emitting element based on an electric field formed between the first electrode and the second electrode. Supplying ink may include: operating the element movement control module in a first mode; and operating the element movement control module in a second mode. Operating the element movement control module in the first mode may include: causing the light-emitting element to pass through an area in the ink channel corresponding to a position where the electrode portion is disposed. Operating the element movement control module in the second mode may include: limiting the movement of the light-emitting element in the area in the ink channel.

[0021] In an embodiment, the method may further include: patterning a bank defining an opening on the base layer. Supplying ink may further include: providing ink into the opening of the bank. Aligning the light emitting element may include: providing a first alignment signal to the first electrode; and providing a second alignment signal different from the first alignment signal to the second electrode.

[0022] In an embodiment, the conduit portion may be divided into a plurality of unit areas. The electrode portion may be disposed in a unit area among the plurality of unit areas. The volume of the ink channel in the unit area among the plurality of unit areas may correspond to the volume of an ink droplet of the ink when the ink is ejected once from the nozzle portion. The electrode portion may include a plurality of electrode portions spaced apart from each other in a longitudinal direction of the conduit portion.

[0023] In an embodiment, the one unit region of the plurality of unit regions may include a plurality of sub-unit regions. The plurality of electrode portions may be adjacent to each other, and the plurality of sub-unit regions may be disposed between the plurality of electrode portions. The number of the plurality of sub-unit regions may be an even number of 4 or more.

[0024] In an embodiment, operating the element movement control module in the first mode and operating the element movement control module in the second mode may be performed alternately.

[0025] In an embodiment, supplying ink may further include: supplying a first ink drop volume of ink to a first area on the base layer; and supplying a second ink drop volume of ink to a second area on the base layer. At least a light emitting element may be included in the ink of each of the first ink drop volume and the second ink drop volume.

[0026] Embodiments may provide a display device manufactured by the manufacturing method. The display device may include: a light emitting element aligned between a first electrode and a second electrode; a first connection electrode electrically connected to a first end of the light emitting element; and a second connection electrode electrically connected to a second end of the light emitting element. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] The above and other aspects and features of the present disclosure will become more apparent by describing in detail embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the attached drawings.

[0028] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view showing a light emitting element according to an embodiment.

[0029] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a light emitting element according to an embodiment.

[0030] Figure 3 is a schematic plan view showing a display device according to an embodiment.

[0031] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a display device according to an embodiment.

[0032] Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view showing an apparatus for manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment.

[0033] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing a manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0034] Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a print head unit (or part) according to an embodiment.

[0035] Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an element movement control module according to an embodiment.

[0036] Fig. 9 and Fig.10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an element movement control module according to an embodiment, for describing an arrangement structure of an electrode portion according to the embodiment.

[0037] Fig.11 is a schematic diagram illustrating an operation mode of a component movement control module according to an embodiment.

[0038] Fig.12 is a schematic cross-sectional view for describing an operation mode of an element movement control module according to an embodiment.

[0039] Fig.13 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a structure in which the element movement control module according to the embodiment further includes an inspection portion.

[0040] Fig.14 is a flowchart illustrating a method of manufacturing a display device using the manufacturing apparatus according to the embodiment.

[0041] Fig.15 is a flowchart illustrating in detail the steps in a method of manufacturing a display device using the manufacturing apparatus according to the embodiment.

[0042] Fig.16 , Fig.21 and Fig. 22 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a method of manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment through process steps.

[0043] Fig.17 and Fig.18 is a schematic diagram illustrating operational aspects of a component movement control module according to an embodiment.

[0044] Fig.19 and Fig. 20 is a schematic diagram illustrating ejection of ink according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] Since the present disclosure allows various changes and multiple embodiments, the embodiments will be shown in the drawings and described in detail in the written description. However, this is not intended to limit the present disclosure to a specific mode of practice, and it will be understood that all changes, equivalents and substitutions that do not depart from the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure are included in the present disclosure.

[0046] In the drawings, the size, thickness, ratio, and dimensions of elements may be exaggerated for convenience of description and for clarity. The same reference numerals refer to the same elements throughout.

[0047] It will be understood that although the terms "first", "second", etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element. For example, without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure, the first element discussed below may be referred to as the second element. Similarly, the second element may also be referred to as the first element.

[0048] As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0049] In the specification and claims, the term "and / or" is intended to include any combination of the terms "and" and "or" for the purpose of its meaning and interpretation. For example, "A and / or B" may be understood to mean "A, B, or A and B". The terms "and" and "or" may be used in conjunction or in a separate sense and may be understood to be equivalent to "and / or".

[0050] In the specification and claims, the phrase "at least one of" is intended to include the meaning of "at least one selected from the group of" for the purpose of its meaning and interpretation. For example, "at least one of A and B" may be understood to mean "A, B, or A and B".

[0051] It will also be understood that when used in the present disclosure, the terms “comprises,” “including,” “having,” etc. specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0052] Furthermore, in the case where a first part such as a layer, a film, a region or a plate is disposed on a second part, the first part may not only be directly disposed on the second part, but also a third part may be interposed therebetween. Furthermore, when it is stated that a first part such as a layer, a film, a region or a plate is formed on a second part, the surface of the second part on which the first part is formed is not limited to the upper surface of the second part, but may include other surfaces such as the side surface or the lower surface of the second part. Conversely, in the case where a first part such as a layer, a film, a region or a plate is below the second part, the first part may not only be directly below the second part, but also a third part may be interposed therebetween.

[0053] It will be understood that in the specification, when an element (or region, layer, portion, etc.) is referred to as being "on," "connected to" or "coupled to" another element, it can be directly disposed on, directly connected to or directly coupled to the other element described above, or intervening elements may be disposed between them.

[0054] It will be understood that the terms "connected to" or "coupled to" may include a physical or electrical connection or coupling.

[0055] The term "overlap" or "overlapping" means that a first object can be above or below a second object, or on one side of the second object, and vice versa. Additionally, the term "overlap" may include layer, stack, face or facing, extend over, cover or partially cover, or any other suitable term as would be understood and appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0056] When an element is described as “not overlapping” or “will not overlap” another element, this may include the elements being spaced apart, offset, or positioned alongside each other, or any other suitable terminology as would be understood and appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0057] The terms "face" and "facing" mean that a first element may be directly or indirectly opposite to a second element. In the case where a third element is interposed between the first and second elements, the first and second elements may be understood to be indirectly opposite to each other, although still facing each other.

[0058] As used herein, "about" or "approximately" is inclusive of the stated value and means within an acceptable range of deviation of a particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art taking into account the measurement in question and the errors associated with the measurement of the particular quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system). For example, "about" can mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, ±20%, ±10%, ±5% of the stated value.

[0059] Unless otherwise defined or implied herein, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. It will also be understood that terms (such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries) should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and will not be interpreted as an idealized or overly formal meaning unless explicitly so defined herein.

[0060] In the drawings, the embodiments may be described and illustrated in terms of functional blocks, units and / or modules.

[0061] Those skilled in the art will understand that these functional blocks, units and / or modules are physically implemented by electronic (or optical) circuits (such as logic circuits, discrete components, microprocessors, hard-wired circuits, memory elements, wiring connections, etc.), which can be formed using semiconductor-based manufacturing technology or other manufacturing technology.

[0062] Where the functional blocks, units and / or modules are implemented by a microprocessor or other similar hardware, they may be programmed and controlled using software (e.g., microcode) to perform the various functions discussed herein, and they may optionally be driven by firmware and / or software.

[0063] It is also contemplated that each functional block, unit and / or module may be implemented by dedicated hardware, or as a combination of dedicated hardware for performing some functions and a processor (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuits) for performing other functions.

[0064] Each functional block, unit and / or module of the embodiments may be physically divided into two or more interacting and discrete functional blocks, units and / or modules without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0065] Furthermore, the functional blocks, units and / or modules of the embodiments may be physically combined into more complex functional blocks, units and / or modules without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0066] Various embodiments relate to an apparatus for manufacturing a display device, a method for manufacturing a display device using the manufacturing apparatus, and a display device manufactured by the method. Hereinafter, an apparatus for manufacturing a display device, a method for manufacturing a display device using the manufacturing apparatus, and a display device manufactured by the method according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0067] First, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The light emitting element LD according to the embodiment is described. Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view showing a light emitting element LD according to an embodiment. Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a light emitting element LD according to an embodiment.

[0068] The light emitting element LD may be configured to emit light. The light emitting element LD may include a first semiconductor layer SCL1, a second semiconductor layer SCL2, and an active layer AL disposed between the first semiconductor layer SCL1 and the second semiconductor layer SCL2. In an embodiment, the first semiconductor layer SCL1, the active layer AL, and the second semiconductor layer SCL2 may be sequentially stacked in a longitudinal direction of the light emitting element LD. In an embodiment, the light emitting element LD may further include an electrode layer ELL and an insulating film INF.

[0069] The light emitting element LD may have various shapes. For example, the light emitting element LD may have a columnar shape extending in one direction. Here, the term "columnar shape" may include a rod-like shape and a bar-like shape that are longer in the longitudinal direction (for example, having an aspect ratio greater than 1), such as a cylindrical shape and a prism shape, and its cross-sectional shape is not limited to a specific shape.

[0070] The light emitting element LD may include a first end EP1 and a second end EP2. In an embodiment, the first semiconductor layer SCL1 may be adjacent to the first end EP1 of the light emitting element LD. The second semiconductor layer SCL2 may be adjacent to the second end EP2. In an embodiment, the electrode layer ELL may be adjacent to the first end EP1.

[0071] The light emitting element LD can be manufactured by etching semiconductor layers stacked in sequence. The light emitting element LD can have a size range from nanometer to micrometer. For example, the diameter D (or width) of the light emitting element LD and the length L of the light emitting element LD can each be in the range from nanometer to micrometer. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the foregoing examples.

[0072] The first semiconductor layer SCL1 may include a first conductive semiconductor. The first semiconductor layer SCL1 may be disposed on the active layer AL and include a semiconductor layer having a type different from that of the second semiconductor layer SCL2. For example, the first semiconductor layer SCL1 may include a P-type semiconductor layer. For example, the first semiconductor layer SCL1 may include one or more semiconductor materials selected from the group consisting of InAlGaN, GaN, AlGaN, InGaN, AlN, and InN, and may include a P-type semiconductor layer doped with a first conductive dopant such as Ga, B, and Mg. However, the present disclosure may not be limited to the foregoing examples. The first semiconductor layer SCL1 may include various materials.

[0073] The active layer AL may be disposed between the first semiconductor layer SCL1 and the second semiconductor layer SCL2. The active layer AL may include a single quantum well structure or a multi-quantum well structure. The position of the active layer AL may be changed in various ways according to the type of the light emitting element LD, without being limited to a specific example.

[0074] The second semiconductor layer SCL2 may include a second conductive semiconductor. The second semiconductor layer SCL2 may be disposed on the active layer AL and include a semiconductor layer of a type different from that of the first semiconductor layer SCL1. For example, the second semiconductor layer SCL2 may include an N-type semiconductor layer. For example, the second semiconductor layer SCL2 may include one or more semiconductor materials selected from the group consisting of InAlGaN, GaN, AlGaN, InGaN, AlN, and InN, and may include an N-type semiconductor layer doped with a second conductive dopant such as Si, Ge, and Sn. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the foregoing examples. The second semiconductor layer SCL2 may include various materials.

[0075] When a threshold voltage or higher voltage is applied between the first terminal EP1 and the second terminal EP2 of the light emitting element LD, the electron-hole pairs in the active layer AL can be recombined, and the light emitting element LD can emit light. Since the light emission of the light emitting element LD can be controlled based on the aforementioned principle, the light emitting element LD can be used as a light source in various devices.

[0076] The insulating film INF may be disposed on the surface of the light emitting element LD. The insulating film INF may surround the outer surface of the active layer AL and may also surround a portion of each of the first and second semiconductor layers SCL1 and SCL2. The insulating film INF may have a single layer structure or a multilayer structure.

[0077] The insulating film INF may allow the first end EP1 and the second end EP2 of the light emitting element LD having different polarities to be exposed. For example, the insulating film INF allows the respective ends of the electrode layer ELL and the second semiconductor layer SCL2 adjacent to the first end EP1 and the second end EP2 of the light emitting element LD to be exposed. The insulating film INF may ensure the electrical stability of the light emitting element LD. In addition, the insulating film INF may minimize the surface defects of the light emitting element LD, thereby improving the life and efficiency of the light emitting element LD. In the case where a plurality of light emitting elements LD are disposed adjacent to each other, the insulating film INF may prevent short circuit defects from occurring between the light emitting elements LD.

[0078] For example, the insulating film INF may include a silicon oxide (SiO x ), Silicon Nitride (SiN x ), silicon oxynitride (SiO x N y ), aluminum oxide (Al x O y ) and titanium oxide (TiO x ) is one or more materials in the group consisting of. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the foregoing examples.

[0079] The electrode layer ELL may be disposed on the first semiconductor layer SCL1. The electrode layer ELL may be adjacent to the first end EP1. The electrode layer ELL may be electrically connected to the first semiconductor layer SCL1. A portion of the electrode layer ELL may be exposed. For example, the insulating film INF allows the surface of the electrode layer ELL to be exposed. The electrode layer ELL may be exposed in a region corresponding to the first end EP1. In an embodiment, a side surface of the electrode layer ELL may be exposed. For example, the insulating film INF may cover a side surface of each of the first semiconductor layer SCL1, the active layer AL, and the second semiconductor layer SCL2, and may not cover at least a portion of the side surface of the electrode layer ELL. In this case, electrical connection of the electrode layer ELL adjacent to the first end EP1 with respect to other components may be facilitated. In an embodiment, the insulating film INF may allow not only the side surface of the electrode layer ELL to be exposed, but also a portion of the side surface of the first semiconductor layer SCL1 and / or the second semiconductor layer SCL2 to be exposed.

[0080] In an embodiment, the electrode layer ELL may be an ohmic contact electrode. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the foregoing example. For example, the electrode layer ELL may be a Schottky contact electrode.

[0081] In an embodiment, the electrode layer ELL may be substantially transparent. For example, the electrode layer ELL may include indium tin oxide (ITO). Therefore, the electrode layer ELL allows the emitted light to pass through. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the foregoing examples.

[0082] The structure and shape of the light emitting element LD are not limited to the above examples. In embodiments, the light emitting element LD may have various structures and shapes. For example, the light emitting element LD may further include an additional electrode layer disposed on the surface of the second semiconductor layer SCL2 and adjacent to the second end EP2.

[0083] Figure 3 is a schematic plan view showing a display device DD according to an embodiment.

[0084] refer to Figure 3 The display device DD may include a base layer BSL and pixels PXL disposed on the base layer BSL. Although not shown in the drawings, the display device DD may further include a driving circuit portion (eg, a scan driver and a data driver) configured to drive the pixels PXL, lines, and pads.

[0085] The display device DD (or the base layer BSL) may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA. The non-display area NDA may be an area other than the display area DA. The non-display area NDA may surround at least a portion of the display area DA.

[0086] The base layer BSL may form a base surface of the display device DD. The base layer BSL may be a rigid or flexible substrate or film. For example, the base layer BSL may be a rigid substrate made of glass or reinforced glass, a flexible substrate (or film) formed of plastic or metal, or at least one insulating layer. The material and / or properties of the base layer BSL are not particularly limited. In an embodiment, the base layer BSL may be substantially transparent. Here, the term "substantially transparent" may mean that light can pass through the base layer BSL having a transmittance of a given value or higher. In an embodiment, the base layer BSL may be translucent or opaque. In addition, the base layer BSL may include a reflective material according to the embodiment.

[0087] The display area DA may refer to an area in which the pixels PXL are disposed. The non-display area NDA may refer to an area in which the pixels PXL are not disposed. A driving circuit portion, lines, and pads connected to the pixels PXL of the display area DA may be disposed in the non-display area NDA.

[0088] In an embodiment, the pixel PXL (or the sub-pixel SPX) may be arranged according to stripes (eg, S stripes or D stripes) or However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-mentioned examples, and various embodiments may be applied to the present disclosure.

[0089] According to an embodiment, the pixel PXL (or sub-pixel SPX) may include a first sub-pixel SPX1, a second sub-pixel SPX2, and a third sub-pixel SPX3. Each of the first sub-pixel SPX1, the second sub-pixel SPX2, and the third sub-pixel SPX3 may 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 that may emit light of various colors.

[0090] For example, each of the first sub-pixel SPX1, the second sub-pixel SPX2, and the third sub-pixel SPX3 may emit light of a single color. For example, the first sub-pixel SPX1 may be a red pixel configured to emit red (e.g., the first color) light, the second sub-pixel SPX2 may be a green pixel configured to emit green (e.g., the second color) light, and the third sub-pixel SPX3 may be a blue pixel configured to emit blue (e.g., the third color) light. According to an embodiment, the number of the second sub-pixels SPX2 may be greater than the number of the first sub-pixels SPX1 or the number of the third sub-pixels SPX3. The colors, types, and / or numbers of the first sub-pixels SPX1, the second sub-pixels SPX2, and the third sub-pixels SPX3 forming each pixel unit are not limited to specific examples.

[0091] In the following, reference will be made to Figure 4A cross-sectional structure of a display device DD according to an embodiment is described. Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a display device DD according to an embodiment.

[0092] refer to Figure 4 , the display device DD may include a pixel circuit layer PCL and a light emitting element layer LEL.

[0093] The pixel circuit layer PCL may be a layer including a pixel circuit PXC configured to drive the light emitting element LD. The pixel circuit layer PCL may include a base layer BSL, a conductive layer formed to form the pixel circuit PXC, and an insulating layer disposed on the conductive layer.

[0094] The light emitting element layer LEL may be disposed on the pixel circuit layer PCL. In an embodiment, the light emitting element layer LEL may include a light emitting element LD. The light emitting element layer LEL may include an insulating pattern INP, an alignment electrode ELT, a first insulating layer INS1, a bank BNK, a second insulating layer INS2, and a connection electrode CNE.

[0095] The insulating pattern INP may be disposed on the pixel circuit layer PCL and may have a shape extending (or protruding) in a thickness direction (eg, third direction DR3) of the base layer BSL. At least a portion of each of the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2 may be disposed on the insulating pattern INP to form a reflective wall.

[0096] The alignment electrode ELT may have a conductive structure configured to form an electric field for aligning the light emitting element LD. The alignment electrode ELT may include a first electrode ELT1 and a second electrode ELT2 spaced apart from each other (spaced apart from each other in a direction in which the light emitting element LD extends).

[0097] In an embodiment, the first electrode ELT1 may be a first alignment electrode to which an AC signal may be supplied to align the light emitting element LD. The first electrode ELT1 may be an electrode to which an anode signal may be supplied to allow the light emitting element LD to emit light. The second electrode ELT2 may be a second alignment electrode to which a ground signal may be supplied to align the light emitting element LD. The second electrode ELT2 may be an electrode to which a cathode signal may be supplied to allow the light emitting element LD to emit light. In an embodiment, the first electrode ELT1 may be electrically connected to the first connection electrode CNE1. The second electrode ELT2 may be electrically connected to the second connection electrode CNE2.

[0098] During the process of aligning the light emitting element LD, the first alignment signal and the second alignment signal may be supplied (or provided) to the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2, respectively. For example, the ink INK (refer to Figure 7 ), a first alignment signal may be supplied to the first electrode ELT1, and a second alignment signal may be supplied to the second electrode ELT2. Here, the first alignment signal and the second alignment signal may have different waveforms, different potentials and / or different phases. For example, the first alignment signal may be an AC signal, and the second alignment signal may be a ground signal. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the foregoing examples. An electric field may be formed between (or on) the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2, so that the light emitting element LD may be aligned between the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2 based on the electric field. For example, the light emitting element LD may be moved (or rotated) by a force (e.g., a dielectrophoresis (DEP) force) derived from the electric field, and thereby aligned (or disposed) on the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2.

[0099] The first insulating layer INS1 may be disposed on the alignment electrode ELT. For example, the first insulating layer INS1 may cover the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2. In an embodiment, the first insulating layer INS1 may include an inorganic material.

[0100] The light emitting element LD may be disposed on the first insulating layer INS1. The light emitting element LD may be disposed between the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2. The light emitting element LD may emit light based on an anode signal supplied from the first connection electrode CNE1 and a cathode signal supplied from the second connection electrode CNE2.

[0101] The second insulating layer INS2 may be disposed on the light emitting element LD. The second insulating layer INS2 may be an anchor. After the light emitting element LD has been aligned, the second insulating layer INS2 may prevent the light emitting element LD from being removed from the aligned position. In an embodiment, the second insulating layer INS2 may include an inorganic material or an organic material.

[0102] The bank BNK may be disposed on the first insulating layer INS1 (eg, the insulating pattern INP). The bank BNK may form a space (eg, the opening OPN) configured to receive the ink INK therein.

[0103] The first connection electrode CNE1 and the second connection electrode CNE2 may be disposed on the first insulating layer INS1. The first connection electrode CNE1 may be electrically connected to the first end EP1 of each of the light emitting elements LD. The second connection electrode CNE2 may be electrically connected to the second end EP2 of each of the light emitting elements LD.

[0104] In an embodiment, the first connection electrode CNE1 and the second connection electrode CNE2 may be patterned at the same time point through the same process. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the foregoing example. After patterning either one of the first connection electrode CNE1 and the second connection electrode CNE2, the other electrode may be patterned.

[0105] In the following, reference will be made to Figures 5 to 13 An apparatus 1 for manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment is described. Hereinafter, for the sake of explanation, the apparatus 1 for manufacturing a display device will be simply referred to as a manufacturing apparatus 1 .

[0106] Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view showing a manufacturing apparatus 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 6 is a block diagram showing a manufacturing apparatus 1 according to an embodiment.

[0107] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 , the manufacturing apparatus 1 may include a stage 10, a print head unit (or part) 20, and a movable unit 30. In an embodiment, the manufacturing apparatus 1 may include a reservoir 40, a controller 50, a pump 60, and a heater 70.

[0108] In an embodiment, the manufacturing apparatus 1 may include an inkjet printer configured to eject ink INK.

[0109] The stage 10 may support the substrate 100. The stage 10 may provide a region on which the substrate 100 is disposed. Here, the substrate 100 may be a base portion provided to manufacture the display device DD. The substrate 100 may include a pixel circuit layer PCL including a base layer BSL.

[0110] In an embodiment, the stage 10 may be formed of a rigid material, but is not limited thereto. The stage 10 may have a rectangular shape in a plan view, but is not limited thereto.

[0111] In an embodiment, the stage 10 may change the position of the substrate 100. For example, the stage 10 may move the substrate 100 using a rail or the like. In an embodiment, the substrate 100 may be moved in the first direction DR1 by the stage 10.

[0112] The print head unit 20 may be disposed above the stage 10. The print head unit 20 may be disposed between the stage 10 and the movable unit 30.

[0113] In an embodiment, the print head unit 20 may eject (eg, provide) a light emitting element LD and a solvent SLV (see Figure 8 ) of ink INK.

[0114] In an embodiment, the print head unit 20 may be moved in the second direction DR2 by the guide portion 32. As described above, the position of the substrate 100 and the position of the print head unit 20 may be adjusted, and thus the area on the substrate 100 on which the ink INK is provided may be adjusted.

[0115] The movable unit 30 may be coupled or connected to the print head unit 20. The movable unit 30 may move the print head unit 20.

[0116] In an embodiment, the movable unit 30 may include a supporting portion 31, a guide portion 32, and a coupling portion 33. The supporting portion 31 may support the print head unit 20. The guide portion 32 may be coupled or connected to the supporting portion 31 to guide the movement of the print head unit 20. The coupling portion 33 may be coupled or connected to the print head unit 20 and configured to be movable along the guide portion 32.

[0117] For example, in a case where the print head unit 20 needs to be moved in the second direction DR2, the coupling portion 33 moves in the second direction DR2 along the guide portion 32 so that the position of the print head unit 20 can be changed in the second direction DR2.

[0118] The reservoir 40 may include a space capable of receiving a fluid. For example, a fluid (or material) may be contained in the reservoir 40. The ink INK may be disposed in the reservoir 40. In an embodiment, the reservoir 40 may be disposed separately from the print head unit 20. At least a portion of the reservoir 40 may be disposed in the print head unit 20.

[0119] The reservoir 40 may be fluidly connected to the print head unit 20 through the main channel CH_M. The ink INK in the reservoir 40 may be supplied to the print head unit 20 through the main channel CH_M. In an embodiment, the temperature on the flow path for the ink INK (including the main channel CH_M) may be changed by the heater 70.

[0120] The reservoir 40 may be fluidly connected with the print head unit 20 through the main recycling channel CH_MR. The ink INK in the print head unit 20 may be recycled to the reservoir 40 through the main recycling channel CH_MR.

[0121] The controller 50 may control the overall operation of the manufacturing apparatus 1. The controller 50 may control the flow of the ink INK in the manufacturing apparatus 1. For example, the controller 50 controls the pump 60 to allow the ink INK to be recirculated to the reservoir 40. The controller 50 may control the flow environment of the ink INK through the heater 70. The controller 50 may control the ejection of the ink INK from the print head unit 20. The controller 50 may control the element movement control module 1000 (refer to Figure 7), so that the movement of the light emitting element LD is restricted in the print head unit 20. For example, the controller 50 may change or maintain the operation mode (eg, the first mode M1 (see Fig.11 ) and the second mode M2 ​​(see Fig.11 )).

[0122] In an embodiment, the controller 50 may be implemented as a CPU or a device similar thereto, depending on hardware, software, or a combination thereof. In terms of hardware, the controller 50 may be provided in the form of an electronic circuit that processes electrical signals to perform control functions. In terms of software, the controller 50 may be provided in the form of a program, application, firmware, etc. that is processed by the hardware-based controller 50.

[0123] Will refer to Figures 7 to 10 The print head unit 20 including the element movement control module 1000 is described. In an embodiment, the element movement control module 1000 may be included in the print head unit 20. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above example. In an embodiment, the element movement control module 1000 may be provided in an area provided separately from the print head unit 20. Hereinafter, for ease of explanation, the description will be based on an embodiment in which the element movement control module 1000 is provided in the print head unit 20.

[0124] Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the print head unit 20 according to the embodiment. Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a component movement control module 1000 according to an embodiment. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an element movement control module 1000 according to an embodiment, for describing an arrangement structure of an electrode portion EL according to an embodiment. Fig.11 is a schematic diagram illustrating an operation mode of the element movement control module 1000 according to an embodiment. Fig.12 is a schematic cross-sectional view for describing an operation mode of the element movement control module 1000 according to the embodiment. Fig.13 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a structure in which the element movement control module 1000 according to the embodiment may further include an inspection portion.

[0125] refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 , the print head unit 20 may include an element movement control module 1000. In an embodiment, the print head unit 20 may include a body channel CH_B, an ink channel CH_P, a nozzle channel CH_N, and a recycling channel CH_R. In an embodiment, the print head unit 20 may include a body channel PF and a nozzle plate NP.

[0126] The ink INK provided from the reservoir 40 may be provided to the body channel CH_B, the ink channel CH_P, the nozzle channel CH_N, and the recirculation channel CH_R that are fluidly connected to each other. In an embodiment, the body pipe PF may include a material having a relatively high hardness, may define an area where the body channel CH_B and the recirculation channel CH_R are formed, and may form an area where the element movement control module 1000 is formed. The body pipe PF may be referred to as a body portion or an inner housing.

[0127] The ink INK may move through the main channel CH_B, and may move through the interior of the pipe portion PI through the ink channel CH_P connected to at least a portion of the main channel CH_B. In an embodiment, the main channel CH_B may be connected to two or more ink channels CH_P at different positions as a common channel. For example, the ink channel CH_P may include two or more ink channels CH_P. A portion of the main channel CH_B may be fluidly connected to the ink channel CH_P at a first position, and another portion of the main channel CH_B may be fluidly connected to the ink channel CH_P at a second position different from the first position. The main channel CH_B may fluidly connect the main channel CH_M to the ink channel CH_P.

[0128] The diameter of the ink channel CH_P may be smaller than the diameter of the main body channel CH_B. In an embodiment, the electrode portion EL may be selectively disposed in the ink channel CH_P having a relatively small diameter to form an electric field for appropriately controlling the movement of the light emitting element LD. For example, the ink channel CH_P may have a micrometer-level diameter. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above examples.

[0129] At least some of the ink INK passing through the ink channel CH_P may be ejected to the outside through the nozzle channel CH_N. For example, the nozzle plate NP may form a nozzle hole NH along which the ink INK may move. The ink INK may be ejected to the outside through the nozzle hole NH. The nozzle plate NP and the nozzle hole NH may form a nozzle portion.

[0130] At least another portion of the ink INK passing through the ink channel CH_P may be recirculated through the recirculation channel CH_R and moved back to the reservoir 40 by the pump 60 .

[0131] The element movement control module 1000 may include a pipe portion PI and an electrode portion EL. In an embodiment, the element movement control module 1000 may be disposed in a region defined in the body pipe PF.

[0132] The duct portion PI may be disposed in an area defined in the body duct PF. The duct portion PI may be coupled or connected and fastened to at least a portion of the body duct PF. The position of the duct portion PI may be appropriately changed and is not limited to a specific example.

[0133] In an embodiment, the pipeline portion PI may include a pipeline.

[0134] The pipe portion PI may include a material having a relatively high hardness. In an embodiment, the pipe portion PI may include a non-conductive material (e.g., a substantially non-conductive material). For example, the pipe portion PI may include one or more of the group consisting of glass, quartz material, and non-conductive polymer. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above examples.

[0135] In an embodiment, since the duct portion PI may include a non-conductive material, the electrode portion EL may appropriately form an electric field in an inner region defined in the duct portion PI.

[0136] The duct portion PI may define an ink channel CH_P. The ink channel CH_P may be fluidically connected to the body channel CH_B, the nozzle channel CH_N, and the recirculation channel CH_R. The ink channel CH_P may be formed to face the nozzle hole NH. In an embodiment, the ink channel CH_P may overlap the electrode portion EL in a direction (e.g., a diameter direction of the duct portion PI).

[0137] The electrode portion EL may be disposed on a surface of the pipe portion PI. The electrode portion EL may be disposed on an outer surface of the pipe portion PI.

[0138] The electrode portion EL may include a conductive material. For example, the electrode portion EL may include an electrode to which a voltage may be applied. For example, the electrode portion EL may include one or more of the group consisting of molybdenum (Mo), magnesium (Mg), silver (Ag), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), and aluminum (Al). However, the present disclosure is not limited to the foregoing examples.

[0139] In an embodiment, the electrode portion EL may include a pair of electrodes which overlap each other at a given position in a cross-sectional direction of the pipe portion PI. For example, the electrode portion EL may include a first side electrode SEL1 and a second side electrode SEL2.

[0140] In an embodiment, the first side electrode SEL1 and the second side electrode SEL2 may be disposed on opposite sides and face each other. The first side electrode SEL1 may be disposed on the first side S1 of the pipe portion PI. The second side electrode SEL2 may be disposed on the second side S2 of the pipe portion PI. The first side S1 and the second side S2 may be opposite to each other and may face each other, with the ink channel CH_P interposed therebetween.

[0141] In an embodiment, the first side electrode SEL1 and the second side electrode SEL2 may form an electric field in the ink channel CH_P. For example, an AC voltage may be applied to the first side electrode SEL1, and a ground voltage may be applied to the second side electrode SEL2. For example, in an embodiment, a DC voltage may be applied to the first side electrode SEL1, and a relatively low DC voltage may be applied to the second side electrode SEL2. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above examples.

[0142] refer to Fig. 9 and Fig.10 , the electrode portion EL may be disposed in a given unit area UA in the area of ​​the pipeline portion PI, and the areas of the pipeline portion PI are separated from each other according to selectable criteria. For example, in the case of ejecting ink INK once, the print head unit 20 (e.g., the nozzle portion) may discharge ink INK of a droplet volume DRP (e.g., 1 droplet volume). In an embodiment, a volume corresponding to the droplet volume DRP capable of receiving the ink INK may be determined as the unit area UA. The pipeline portion PI may be divided into a plurality of unit areas UA. For example, the volume of the ink channel CH_P in the unit area UA may correspond to (e.g., be substantially the same as) the droplet volume DRP.

[0143] The electrode portion EL may be disposed in the unit area UA. Since the range in which the electrode portion EL is disposed may be determined based on the unit area UA, the content of the light emitting element LD in the ink INK may be appropriately controlled based on the ink drop volume DRP. In an embodiment, the length of the unit area UA may be determined based on the ink drop volume DRP to be ejected and the bottom surface area of ​​the pipe portion PI.

[0144] The electrode portion EL may include a plurality of electrode portions spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the pipe portion PI (e.g., the direction in which the ink channel CH_P extends). For example, the electrode portion EL may include n or more electrode portions spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the pipe portion PI (where n is an even number of 2 or more). For example, the electrode portion EL may include n or more electrode portions spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the pipe portion PI (where n is an even number of 4 or more).

[0145] In an implementation, the number of the electrode parts EL may be defined based on the number of pairs including the first side electrode SEL1 and the second side electrode SEL2 .

[0146] For example (reference Fig. 9 ), the electrode portion EL may include two electrode portions. The electrode portion EL may include a first edge electrode portion EEL1 and a second edge electrode portion EEL2. The first edge electrode portion EEL1 may be adjacent to a first end of the unit area UA. The second edge electrode portion EEL2 may be adjacent to a second end of the unit area UA. Each of the first edge electrode portion EEL1 and the second edge electrode portion EEL2 may include side electrodes SEL1 and SEL2 that overlap each other in a cross-sectional direction of the pipe portion PI.

[0147] For example (reference Fig.10 ), the electrode portion EL may include four electrode portions. The electrode portion EL may include a first edge electrode portion EEL1 and a second edge electrode portion EEL2, and may include a first internal electrode portion IEL1 and a second internal electrode portion IEL2. Each of the first edge electrode portion EEL1, the second edge electrode portion EEL2, the first internal electrode portion IEL1, and the second internal electrode portion IEL2 may include side electrodes SEL1 and SEL2 overlapping each other in a cross-sectional direction of the pipe portion PI.

[0148] In an embodiment, the electrode portions EL arranged or arranged in the longitudinal direction of the pipe portion PI may be spaced apart from each other, and the subunit area SUA is interposed between them. For example, adjacent electrode portions EL may be disposed adjacent to each other, and the subunit area SUA is interposed between them. For example, in an embodiment, adjacent electrode portions EL may be disposed adjacent to each other, and two subunit areas SUA are interposed between them. Therefore, in the subunit area SUA, the electrode portions EL having the subunit area SUA as a separation unit may be arranged or arranged alternately. The subunit area SUA may be a basic unit area of ​​an area where the electrode portion EL is or is not disposed. For example, the range of the subunit area SUA may correspond to the range of (e.g., substantially the same as) the area covered by the electrode portion EL (e.g., the area where the electric field is formed).

[0149] For example (reference Fig. 9 ), the sub-unit area SUA included in the unit area UA may include a first sub-unit area SUA1, a second sub-unit area SUA2, a third sub-unit area SUA3, and a fourth sub-unit area SUA4. The first edge electrode portion EEL1 may be disposed in the first sub-unit area SUA1. The second edge electrode portion EEL2 may be disposed in the fourth sub-unit area SUA4.

[0150] For example (reference Fig.10 ), the subunit area SUA included in the unit area UA may include a first subunit area SUA1, a second subunit area SUA2, a third subunit area SUA3, a fourth subunit area SUA4, a fifth subunit area SUA5, a sixth subunit area SUA6, a seventh subunit area SUA7, and an eighth subunit area SUA8. The first edge electrode portion EEL1 may be disposed in the first subunit area SUA1. The first internal electrode portion IEL1 may be disposed in the third subunit area SUA3. The second internal electrode portion IEL2 may be disposed in the sixth subunit area SUA6. The second edge electrode portion EEL2 may be disposed in the eighth subunit area SUA8.

[0151] In an embodiment, the number of sub-unit areas SUA may be an even number. For example, the unit area UA may be divided based on an even number to distinguish between areas where the electrode portion EL is provided or not provided. The unit area UA may be relatively finely divided, such as into eight sub-unit areas SUA, thereby defining an area where the electrode portion EL may be provided.

[0152] The element movement control module 1000 including the electrode portion EL can limit the movement of the light emitting element LD. According to the element movement control module 1000 including the above-mentioned structural features, the risk of not including the light emitting element LD in the ink droplet unit through which the ink INK is ejected can be prevented. In addition, the risk of including the amount of the light emitting element LD exceeding the expected amount in the ink droplet unit through which the ink INK is ejected can also be prevented.

[0153] In this regard, reference will be made to Fig.11 and Fig.12 The operation mode of the element movement control module 1000 (or the print head unit 20) according to the embodiment is described. Subsequently, a detailed structural implementation will be described in conjunction with a manufacturing method.

[0154] refer to Fig.11 and Fig.12 , the element movement control module 1000 (or the print head unit 20) can operate in the first mode M1 or the second mode M2.

[0155] For ease of explanation, the component movement control module 1000 (or the print head unit 20) will be described based on the operation mode, and the component movement control module 1000 (or the print head unit 20) can operate in the first mode M1 starting from the reference time point T0, and operate in the second mode M2 ​​starting from the first elapsed time point T0+ΔT (after the unit time ΔT starting from the reference time point T0). For example, the component movement control module 1000 (or the print head unit 20) can operate in the first mode M1 within the unit time ΔT based on the reference time point T0. The component movement control module 1000 (or the print head unit 20) can operate in the second mode M2 ​​within the unit time ΔT based on the first elapsed time point T0+ΔT. For example, the component movement control module 1000 can operate in each of the first mode M1 and the second mode M2 ​​for the same time.

[0156] In an embodiment, the element movement control module 1000 may enter a first mode M1. When operating in the first mode M1, the element movement control module 1000 may not restrict the movement of the light emitting element LD so that the light emitting element LD may pass through the ink channel CH_P. In an embodiment, when the element movement control module 1000 operates in the first mode M1, an electrical signal (e.g., a movement control signal or a voltage) may not be applied to the first side electrode SEL1 and the second side electrode SEL2, and an electric field may not be substantially formed between the first side electrode SEL1 and the second side electrode SEL2.

[0157] In an embodiment, the element movement control module 1000 may enter a second mode M2. When operating in the second mode M2, the element movement control module 1000 may restrict movement of the light emitting element LD so that the light emitting element LD may have difficulty passing through the subunit area SUA in which the electrode portion EL is disposed. In an embodiment, when the element movement control module 1000 operates in the second mode M2, an electrical signal (e.g., a movement control signal or a voltage) may be applied to the first side electrode SEL1 and the second side electrode SEL2, and an electric field may be formed between the first side electrode SEL1 and the second side electrode SEL2.

[0158] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the light emitting element LD whose movement is restricted by the electric field formed by the electrode portion EL is referred to as the first light emitting element LD1 and is represented by a solid line frame without a pattern in the drawings. The light emitting element LD whose movement has been restricted by the electric field formed by the electrode portion EL is referred to as the second light emitting element LD2 and is represented by a frame with a pattern in the drawings.

[0159] In an embodiment, since the movement of the light emitting element LD is not restricted at the reference time point T0, the ink INK may flow in a flow direction (eg, flow continuously).

[0160] In an embodiment, the movement of the light emitting element LD may be restricted at the first passing time point T0+ΔT. The second light emitting element LD2 may not pass through the region (e.g., the first sub-unit region SUA1 and the fourth sub-unit region SUA4) in which the electrode portion EL is disposed. The first light emitting element LD1 corresponding to the region where the electrode portion EL is not disposed may move in the direction along the flow of the ink INK.

[0161] Experimentally, the light-emitting elements LD in the ink INK may be provided in a dispersed state in the solvent SLV, and it may be difficult to distribute the light-emitting elements LD in the ink INK completely and uniformly. In this case, in the case where the print head unit 20 ejects the ink INK in a droplet volume DRP, there may be a risk that the number of light-emitting elements LD included in each droplet volume DRP may vary. In the case where the number of light-emitting elements LD in each droplet volume DRP varies, there may be a deviation in the number of light-emitting elements LD set for each of the sub-pixels SPX in the display area DA of the display device DD. In this case, it is to be noted that dark spots may be observed in some areas, or differences in emission efficiency may occur, resulting in reduced visibility. In addition, there is a risk of excessive application of the light-emitting elements LD in some areas, resulting in an unnecessary increase in production costs.

[0162] However, according to an embodiment, the element movement control module 1000 may be operated alternately in the first mode M1 and the second mode M2. Therefore, the movement of the light emitting elements LD in some channels (e.g., ink channels CH_P) provided with the ink INK may be restricted by the element movement control module 1000. The risk of excessive reduction or increase in the number of light emitting elements LD in some ink INK of the ink drop volume DRP may be prevented.

[0163] The unit time ΔT at which the element movement control module 1000 operates in each of the first mode M1 and the second mode M2 ​​may be determined based on the flow rate of the ink INK and the length of the sub-unit area SUA. For example, the unit time ΔT may be defined as the time taken for the ink INK to move the length of the sub-unit area SUA based on the flow rate of the ink INK. In other words, the time period during which the movement of the light emitting element LD is restricted or unrestricted may correspond to the difference between the area where the electrode portion EL is provided or not provided. Therefore, the flow of the light emitting element LD may be controlled more accurately.

[0164] The following will refer to Fig.13The component movement control module 1000 according to the embodiment may further include a structure for checking a partial VID. Fig.13 , for convenience of explanation, operations of the element movement control module 1000 at a reference time point T0 and subsequent time points (eg, a first elapsed time point T0+ΔT to a third elapsed time point T0+3ΔT) are shown.

[0165] In an embodiment, the element movement control module 1000 may further include an inspection portion VID. The inspection portion VID may be spaced apart from the electrode portion EL in a longitudinal direction of the pipe portion PI. The inspection portion VID may be disposed adjacent to an outer surface of the pipe portion PI.

[0166] The inspection portion VID may be disposed in a region spaced apart from the unit region UA ​​where the electrode portion EL is located by one or more unit regions UA. For example, n unit regions UA (where n is a natural number of 1 or more) may be formed between the inspection portion VID and the electrode portion EL.

[0167] The inspection part VID may observe the flow of the light emitting element LD in the ink channel CH_P and obtain visual information about the flow of the light emitting element LD. For example, the inspection part VID may include a camera. The inspection part VID may obtain information about the movement of the light emitting element LD in the ink channel CH_P.

[0168] Based on the flow direction of the ink INK, the inspection part VID may be located in front of the electrode part EL. Therefore, the inspection part VID may verify that the amount of the light emitting element LD included in some areas of the ink INK is not abnormal (e.g., not too small or not present). The electrode part EL may operate in the first mode M1 or the second mode M2 ​​based on the verified information.

[0169] For example, the inspection portion VID may verify that the light emitting element LD is not included in some areas of the ink INK corresponding to the ink drop volume DRP at the reference time point T0. Based on the information provided from the inspection portion VID, information about the movement of some parts of the ink INK in which the light emitting element LD is not usually included may be acquired. For example, based on the number of unit areas UA between the inspection portion VID and the electrode portion EL, the acquired information may be information about the time taken for some parts of the ink INK in which the light emitting element LD is not usually included to reach the unit area UA in which the electrode portion EL is positioned. For example, in Fig.13 , an embodiment is shown in which the abnormal region reaches the electrode portion EL after the unit time ΔT from the reference time point T0.

[0170] For example, the component movement control module 1000 may continue to operate for a unit time ΔT starting from a reference time point T0 in the first mode M1. Subsequently, the component movement control module 1000 may operate for a unit time ΔT starting from a first elapsed time point T0+ΔT in the second mode M2. Thereafter, the component movement control module 1000 may operate for a unit time ΔT starting from a second elapsed time point T0+2ΔT in the first mode M1. Subsequently, the component movement control module 1000 may operate for a unit time ΔT starting from a third elapsed time point T0+3ΔT in the second mode M2. Here, the movement of some light emitting elements LD is restricted so that the position distribution of the second light emitting element LD2 can be changed. Reference Fig.13 By considering the distribution of the light emitting elements LD, it can be understood that at least one light emitting element LD is included in the volume of ink INK corresponding to the ink drop volume DRP compared to the time point of the initial entry of the ink INK. In other words, the risk of not including the light emitting element LD in some ink INK of the ink drop volume DRP can be reduced. Even in an implementation structure that does not include the inspection part VID, the above-mentioned technical effect can be provided in the same manner. In the case of including the additional inspection part VID, the operational reliability of the element movement control module 1000 can be improved.

[0171] Will refer to Figures 14 to 22 A method of manufacturing a display device using the manufacturing apparatus 1 according to the embodiment is described.

[0172] Fig.14 : is a flowchart showing a method of manufacturing a display device using the manufacturing apparatus 1 according to the embodiment. Fig.15 : is a flowchart showing in detail the steps in a method of manufacturing a display device using the manufacturing apparatus 1 according to the embodiment. Fig.16 , Fig.21 and Fig. 22 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a method of manufacturing a display device DD according to an embodiment through process steps. Fig.16 , Fig.21 and Fig. 22 is with Figure 4 The cross-sectional structure shown in FIG. Fig.17 and Fig.18 1 is a schematic diagram showing aspects of the operation of the component movement control module 1000 according to an embodiment. For ease of explanation, Fig.17 and Fig.18 Shows Fig.10 The above structure shown in . Fig.19 and Fig. 20 : is a schematic diagram showing the ejection of the ink INK according to the embodiment. Fig.19 and Fig. 20 A process in which the print head unit 20 continuously ejects ink INK is schematically shown.

[0173] refer to Fig.14 , the method of manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment may include: a step S100 of patterning an alignment electrode on a pixel circuit layer; a step S200 of supplying ink including a light emitting element; and a step S300 of aligning the light emitting element.

[0174] refer to Fig.14 and Fig.16 At step S100 of patterning the alignment electrode on the pixel circuit layer, a base layer BSL may be prepared. A conductive layer and an insulating layer may be disposed on the base layer BSL to form a pixel circuit PXC, thereby providing a pixel circuit layer PCL. The alignment electrode ELT may be patterned on the pixel circuit layer PCL (eg, the base layer BSL).

[0175] The conductive layer or insulating layer on the base layer BSL may be formed based on an optional process for manufacturing a semiconductor device. For example, the conductive layer or insulating layer on the base layer BSL may be formed by a photolithography process, and may be deposited by various methods (e.g., sputtering, chemical vapor deposition, etc. within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure). However, the present disclosure is not limited to specific examples.

[0176] At this step, before depositing the alignment electrode ELT, the insulating pattern INP may be patterned on the pixel circuit layer PCL. After patterning the alignment electrode ELT, a first insulating layer INS1 may be formed on the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2. After forming the first insulating layer INS1, the bank BNK may be patterned (eg, formed) to form an opening OPN.

[0177] refer to Fig.14 , Fig.15 and Figures 17 to 21 , a step S200 of supplying ink including a light emitting element may be performed. The step S200 of supplying ink may include: a step S220 in which the element movement control module controls the movement of the light emitting element in the ink channel; and a step S240 in which the ink is ejected from the print head unit.

[0178] refer to Fig.17 and Fig.18 The two examples shown in FIG. 1 will describe step S220 in which the element movement control module controls the movement of the light emitting element in the ink channel.

[0179] As described above, the light emitting elements LD may be dispersed and disposed in the ink INK. In the region where the electrode portion EL is disposed, a portion of the ink INK having the light emitting elements LD substantially uniformly distributed may move, and a portion of the ink INK having no light emitting elements LD may move.

[0180] exist Fig.17 and Fig.18 In the embodiment, there is an embodiment in which the ink INK of the first ink drop volume DROP1 and the ink INK of the second ink drop volume DROP2 defined based on the ink drop volume DRP continuously move in the ink channel CH_P. For the sake of convenience, the case where eight light emitting elements LD are included in the ink INK of the ink drop volume DRP as a target amount (e.g., an expected amount) will be described. Therefore, it may be an example that the ink INK of the ejected ink drop volume DRP includes eight light emitting elements LD, and it may be necessary to include at least one light emitting element LD therein.

[0181] Fig.17 A first example, ie, an implementation aspect, is shown in which eight light emitting elements LD are included in each of the first drop volume DROP1 and the second drop volume DROP2 . Fig.18 A second example, ie an implementation aspect, is shown in which eight light emitting elements LD are included in the first drop volume DROP1 and no light emitting element LD is included in the second drop volume DROP2.

[0182] In an embodiment, in the first and second examples, in order to control the movement of the light emitting element LD for each of the first ink drop volume DROP1 and the second ink drop volume DROP2, the element movement control module 1000 may operate alternately in the first mode M1 and the second mode M2. In an embodiment, the first ink drop volume DROP1 and the second ink drop volume DROP2 may correspond to each other. For example, the first ink drop volume DROP1 and the second ink drop volume DROP2 may be substantially the same as each other.

[0183] For example, in each of the first example and the second example, the element movement control module 1000 may operate the unit time ΔT from the reference time point T0 in the first mode M1. In each of the first example and the second example, the element movement control module 1000 may operate the unit time ΔT from the first elapsed time point T0+ΔT in the second mode M2. In each of the first example and the second example, the element movement control module 1000 may operate the unit time ΔT from the second elapsed time point T0+2ΔT in the first mode M1. In each of the first example and the second example, the element movement control module 1000 may operate the unit time ΔT from the third elapsed time point T0+3ΔT in the second mode M2. In each of the first example and the second example, the element movement control module 1000 may operate the unit time ΔT from the fourth elapsed time point T0+4ΔT in the first mode M1. In each of the first example and the second example, the element movement control module 1000 may operate the unit time ΔT from the fifth elapsed time point T0+5ΔT in the second mode M2. In each of the first example and the second example, the element movement control module 1000 may operate the unit time ΔT from the sixth passing time point T0+6ΔT in the first mode M1. In each of the first example and the second example, the element movement control module 1000 may operate the unit time ΔT from the seventh passing time point T0+7ΔT in the second mode M2. In each of the first example and the second example, the element movement control module 1000 may operate the unit time ΔT from the eighth passing time point T0+8ΔT in the first mode M1. In each of the first example and the second example, the element movement control module 1000 may operate the unit time ΔT from the ninth passing time point T0+9ΔT in the second mode M2. In each of the first example and the second example, the element movement control module 1000 may operate the unit time ΔT from the tenth passing time point T0+10ΔT in the first mode M1. In each of the first example and the second example, the element movement control module 1000 may operate the unit time ΔT from the eleventh passing time point T0+11ΔT in the second mode M2. In each of the first example and the second example, the element movement control module 1000 may operate the unit time ΔT from the twelfth elapsed time point T0+12ΔT in the first mode M1. In each of the first example and the second example, the element movement control module 1000 may operate the unit time ΔT from the thirteenth elapsed time point T0+13ΔT in the second mode M2. In each of the first example and the second example, the element movement control module 1000 may operate the unit time ΔT from the fourteenth elapsed time point T0+14ΔT in the first mode M1.In each of the first and second examples, the element movement control module 1000 may operate the unit time ΔT from the fifteenth elapsed time point T0+15ΔT in the second mode M2. In each of the first and second examples, the element movement control module 1000 may operate the unit time ΔT from the sixteenth elapsed time point T0+16ΔT in the first mode M1.

[0184] refer to Fig.17 , when the operation is performed, the positions of some of the second light emitting elements LD2 may be changed. For example, some of the light emitting elements LD included in the first ink drop volume DROP1 may be changed to be included in the second ink drop volume DROP2. Some of the light emitting elements LD included in the second ink drop volume DROP2 may be changed to be included in the first ink drop volume DROP1. In other words, in the case where a sufficient number of light emitting elements LD are included in the region of the ink INK, it can be verified that there is no risk that the number of light emitting elements LD included in some ink drop volumes DRP may be excessively increased.

[0185] refer to Fig.18 , when the operation is performed, the positions of some of the second light emitting elements LD2 may be changed. For example, some of the light emitting elements LD included in the first ink drop volume DROP1 may be changed to be included in the second ink drop volume DROP2. In other words, even if some areas of the ink INK do not include the light emitting element LD, it may be verified that at least one light emitting element LD is included in each ejected ink drop volume DRP.

[0186] The described technical effect can be provided by the following structure: for relatively fine differentiation and distinction, an even number of sub-unit areas SUA are included in the unit area UA, and the electrode portion EL is arranged in the corresponding sub-unit area SUA arranged in at least the first end and the second end of the unit area UA. For example, in the case where the unit area UA is divided into two sub-unit areas SUA, the ink INK of some ink drop volume DRP may not include the light emitting element LD, because the movement of the light emitting element LD is restricted or unrestricted based on half the area of ​​the ink drop volume DRP. In addition, in the case where an odd number of sub-unit areas SUA are included in the unit area UA, the area where the electrode portion EL restricts the movement of the light emitting element LD can be expanded. Therefore, in some examples (for example, Fig.17 ), there may be a risk of including a greater number of light emitting elements LD than expected in the ink INK of the ink drop volume DRP. In summary, in the present disclosure, at least one light emitting element LD is included in the ink drop volume DRP without causing the above-mentioned risk, and a relatively uniform number of light emitting elements LD can be included in the ink drop volume DRP. Therefore, the risk of unnecessary increase in production cost can be prevented.

[0187] refer to Figures 19 to 21 , at step S240 of ejecting ink from the print head unit, the ink INK may be provided (eg, ejected) onto the base layer BSL.

[0188] At this step, the ink INK ejected from the print head unit 20 may be supplied into the opening OPN defined in the bank BNK. The light emitting elements LD may be dispersed and disposed in the solvent SLV before alignment.

[0189] In an embodiment, the print head unit 20 may supply ink INK of a first ink drop volume DROP1 to the first area A1. The print head unit 20 may supply ink INK of a second ink drop volume DROP2 to the second area A2 formed at a position different from the first area A1.

[0190] As described above, at least one light emitting element LD may be included in each of the ink INK of the ink droplet volumes DRP ejected at different time points, so that at least one light emitting element LD may be disposed in each of the first area A1 and the second area A2.

[0191] refer to Fig.14 and Fig. 22 At the step S300 of aligning the light emitting element, the light emitting element may be aligned (eg, disposed) based on an electric field formed by the alignment electrode ELT.

[0192] At this step, a first alignment signal may be supplied to the first electrode ELT1, and a second alignment signal may be supplied to the second electrode ELT2, so that an electric field may be formed between the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2. Based on the formed electric field, the light emitting element LD may be aligned between the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2. For example, each of the light emitting elements LD may be aligned so that its first end EP1 faces the first electrode ELT1, and its second end EP2 faces the second electrode ELT2.

[0193] Thereafter, although not shown, the solvent SLV may be removed (eg, by a drying process within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure), and the second insulating layer INS2 may be patterned on the light emitting element LD. The connection electrode CNE may be patterned to be electrically connected to the light emitting element LD.

[0194] Various embodiments can provide an apparatus for manufacturing a display device, a method for manufacturing a display device using the manufacturing apparatus, and a display device manufactured by the method, which can adjust the amount of light-emitting elements to reduce production costs and make the amount of light-emitting elements provided to pixels uniform.

[0195] While various embodiments have been described above, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, additions and substitutions are possible, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure.

[0196] Therefore, the embodiments disclosed in this specification are only for illustrative purposes, rather than limiting the technical spirit of the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure may also be defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An apparatus for manufacturing a display device, comprising: a reservoir receiving ink including a light emitting element and a solvent; an element movement control module including a conduit portion defining an ink passage fluidly connected to the reservoir, and an electrode portion provided on a surface of the conduit portion; and The nozzle part ejects the ink outward, wherein The element movement control module operates in a first mode or a second mode, When the element movement control module operates in the first mode, the movement of the light emitting element is not restricted, and In a case where the element movement control module operates in the second mode, the electrode portion forms an electric field, and the movement of the light emitting element in the ink channel is restricted at least in a region corresponding to a position where the electrode portion is disposed.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein The pipe portion includes a material having non-conductivity that allows the electric field formed by the electrode portion to be formed in the ink channel.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The electrode portion includes a first side electrode and a second side electrode which form a pair and are spaced apart from each other, and the ink channel is provided between the first side electrode and the second side electrode.

4. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The pipeline section is divided into a plurality of unit areas, The electrode portion is disposed in a unit area among the plurality of unit areas, and The volume of the ink channel in the one unit area among the plurality of unit areas corresponds to the volume of an ink droplet of the ink in a case where the ink is ejected once from the nozzle portion.

5. The device according to claim 4, wherein: The electrode portion includes a plurality of electrode portions spaced apart from each other in a longitudinal direction of the pipe portion, The plurality of electrode portions include a first edge electrode portion adjacent to a first end of the one of the plurality of unit regions, a second edge electrode portion adjacent to a second end of the one of the plurality of unit regions, and an internal electrode portion disposed between the first edge electrode portion and the second edge electrode portion, The one unit area among the plurality of unit areas includes a plurality of sub-unit areas, and The plurality of electrode parts are adjacent to each other, and the plurality of sub-unit regions are disposed between the plurality of electrode parts.

6. The device according to claim 5, wherein: The number of the plurality of subunit regions is an even number of 4 or more.

7. The device according to claim 5, wherein: the element movement control module operates in each of the first mode and the second mode for the same unit time, The unit time is the time taken for the ink to move through the plurality of sub-unit areas when moving in the ink channel, and The element movement control module operates alternately in the first mode and the second mode.

8. The device according to claim 7, further comprising: an inspection portion which is spaced apart from the electrode portion in the longitudinal direction of the pipe portion and acquires information on the movement of the light emitting element in the ink channel, Wherein, in a case where the inspection part obtains movement information of the light emitting element in some areas of the ink not included in the ink channel, after a period of time based on the distance between the inspection part and the electrode part, the element movement control module continues to operate in the first mode, and after further lapse of the unit time, the element movement control module enters the second mode.

9. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The nozzle part and the element movement control module are arranged in the print head part, The device also includes: a main channel fluidly connecting the print head portion with the reservoir; and a body channel formed in the print head portion and fluidly connecting the main channel with the ink channel, The diameter of the main channel is larger than the diameter of the ink channel, The element movement control module is not arranged in the main body channel, The print head portion also includes a body conduit forming a recirculation channel fluidly connected to the ink channel, The recirculation passage is fluidly connected to the reservoir, and The body duct forms a space in which the element movement control module is disposed.

10. A method for manufacturing a display device using an apparatus for manufacturing the display device, The device comprises: a reservoir receiving ink including a light emitting element and a solvent; an element movement control module including a conduit portion defining an ink passage fluidly connected to the reservoir, and an electrode portion disposed on a surface of the conduit portion, the element movement control module operating in a first mode or a second mode; as well as A nozzle portion, ejecting the ink outwardly, The method comprises: patterning a first electrode and a second electrode on the base layer; supplying the ink provided from the nozzle portion onto the base layer; and Based on an electric field formed between the first electrode and the second electrode, aligning the light emitting element, Supplying the ink includes: operating the component movement control module in the first mode; and operating the element movement control module in the second mode, Operating the element movement control module in the first mode includes: causing the light emitting element to pass through a region of the ink channel corresponding to a position where the electrode portion is disposed, and Operating the element movement control module in the second mode includes limiting movement of the light emitting element in the region in the ink channel.

11. The method according to claim 10, further comprising: A bank defining an opening is patterned on the base layer, wherein: Supplying the ink further comprises: providing the ink into the opening of the bank, and Aligning the light emitting element comprises: supplying a first alignment signal to the first electrode; and A second alignment signal different from the first alignment signal is supplied to the second electrode.

12. The method according to claim 10, wherein: The pipeline section is divided into a plurality of unit areas, The electrode portion is disposed in a unit area of ​​the plurality of unit areas, The volume of the ink channel in the one unit area among the plurality of unit areas corresponds to the volume of an ink droplet of the ink in a case where the ink is ejected once from the nozzle portion, The electrode portion includes a plurality of electrode portions spaced apart from each other in a longitudinal direction of the pipe portion, The one unit area among the plurality of unit areas comprises a plurality of sub-unit areas, The plurality of electrode portions are adjacent to each other, and the plurality of sub-unit regions are disposed between the plurality of electrode portions, and The number of the plurality of subunit regions is an even number of 4 or more.

13. The method according to claim 10, wherein: Operating the component movement control module in the first mode and operating the component movement control module in the second mode are performed alternately.

14. The method according to claim 10, wherein: Supplying the ink also includes: supplying a first drop volume of the ink to a first area on the base layer; and supplying a second drop volume of the ink to a second area on the base layer, and At least the light emitting element is included in the ink in each of the first ink drop volume and the second ink drop volume.

15. A display device manufactured by the method according to claim 10, comprising: The light emitting element is aligned between the first electrode and the second electrode; A first connecting electrode electrically connected to a first end of the light emitting element; as well as The second connecting electrode is electrically connected to the second end of the light emitting element.

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