Display device

Abstract

The invention relates to a display device. The display device includes: a substrate; a light-emitting element layer on the substrate and including a plurality of light-emitting elements emitting light; and a light control layer on the light-emitting element layer, the light control layer including a light-transmitting layer transmitting light and a light-shielding layer for shielding light, in which the light-transmitting layer includes: a first light-transmitting layer; a second light-transmitting layer on the first light-transmitting layer; a third light-transmitting layer on the second light-transmitting layer; and a fourth light-transmitting layer on the third light-transmitting layer, in which the light-shielding layer includes: a first portion between the second light-transmitting layers; a second portion on the first portion and between the fourth light transmissive layers; a third portion on the second portion and between the fourth light transmissive layers; and a fourth portion on the third portion, and wherein the second light transmissive layer covers an upper surface and a side portion of the first light transmissive layer.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0129842 filed in the Korean Intellectual Property Office on September 26, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. Technical Field

[0003] Aspects of some embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a display device. Background Art

[0004] With the development of the information age, consumer demand for display devices for displaying images has increased in various forms. The display device may be a flat panel display device, such as a liquid crystal display device, a field emission display device, and a light-emitting display device. The light-emitting display device may include an organic light-emitting display device including an organic light-emitting diode element as a light-emitting element, or a light-emitting diode display device including an inorganic light-emitting diode element (such as a light-emitting diode (LED)) as a light-emitting element.

[0005] In the case of a display device for a vehicle, when an image is displayed on the display device for a vehicle, which is placed in front of a driver or a passenger and is reflected on a windshield at night, it may interfere with the driver's driving, and it may be desirable to control the viewing angle of the image displayed on the display device for a vehicle. In addition, for privacy protection, it may be desirable to control the viewing angle of the image displayed on the display device for a vehicle so as not to provide the passenger with the image displayed on the display device for a vehicle placed in front of the driver.

[0006] The above information disclosed in this Background section is only for enhancement of understanding of the background technology and therefore the information discussed in this Background section does not necessarily constitute prior art. Summary of the invention

[0007] Aspects of some embodiments of the present disclosure include a display device that can relatively improve reliability of a light-management layer.

[0008] Aspects of some embodiments of the present disclosure include a display device that can relatively improve efficiency in a process of forming a light-controlling layer.

[0009] Features according to the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and additional features according to the embodiments of the present disclosure not mentioned herein will be more clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description of the present disclosure.

[0010] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, a display device includes: a substrate; a light-emitting element layer, on the substrate, including a plurality of light-emitting elements for emitting light; and a light-control layer, on the light-emitting element layer, including a light-transmitting layer for transmitting light and a light-shielding layer for blocking light, wherein the light-transmitting layer includes: a first light-transmitting layer; a second light-transmitting layer, on the first light-transmitting layer; a third light-transmitting layer, on the second light-transmitting layer; and a fourth light-transmitting layer, on the third light-transmitting layer, wherein the light-shielding layer includes: a first part, between the second light-transmitting layers; a second part, on the first part and between the fourth light-transmitting layers; a third part, on the second part and between the fourth light-transmitting layers; and a fourth part, on the third part, and wherein the second light-transmitting layer covers the upper surface and side of the first light-transmitting layer.

[0011] According to some embodiments, a thickness of the first light-transmitting layer is less than a thickness of the second light-transmitting layer.

[0012] According to some embodiments, a width of the first light-transmitting layer is smaller than a width of the second light-transmitting layer.

[0013] According to some embodiments, the width of the first portion is the same as the width of the second portion.

[0014] According to some embodiments, the width of the first portion is greater than the width of the second portion.

[0015] According to some embodiments, the width of the second portion is greater than the width of the fourth portion.

[0016] According to some embodiments, the width of the second portion is smaller than the width of the fourth portion.

[0017] According to some embodiments, the width of the first portion is smaller than the width of the second portion.

[0018] According to some embodiments, a width of the second portion is smaller than a width of the fourth portion.

[0019] According to some embodiments, the width of the second portion is greater than the width of the fourth portion.

[0020] According to some embodiments, a side portion of at least one of the first to fourth light-transmitting layers and the first to fourth portions is inclined.

[0021] According to some embodiments, the display device may further include a first metal layer between the second portion and the third portion.

[0022] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, a display device includes: a substrate; a light-emitting element layer, on the substrate, including a plurality of light-emitting elements for emitting light; and a light-control layer, on the light-emitting element layer, including a light-transmitting layer for transmitting light and a light-shielding layer for blocking light, wherein the light-transmitting layer includes: a first light-transmitting layer; a second light-transmitting layer, on the first light-transmitting layer; a third light-transmitting layer, on the second light-transmitting layer; and a fourth light-transmitting layer, on the third light-transmitting layer, wherein the light-shielding layer includes: a first part, between the first light-transmitting layers and between the second light-transmitting layers; a second part, on the first part and between the third light-transmitting layers; a third part, on the second part and between the third light-transmitting layers and between the fourth light-transmitting layers; and a fourth part, on the third part, and wherein the second light-transmitting layer does not contact the side of the first light-transmitting layer.

[0023] According to some embodiments, a width of the first light-transmitting layer is the same as a width of the second light-transmitting layer.

[0024] According to some embodiments, a width of the first light-transmitting layer is greater than a width of the second light-transmitting layer.

[0025] According to some embodiments, a width of a portion of the first portion overlapping the first light-transmitting layer is smaller than a width of a portion of the first portion overlapping the second light-transmitting layer.

[0026] According to some embodiments, a width of the first light-transmitting layer is smaller than a width of the second light-transmitting layer.

[0027] According to some embodiments, a width of a portion of the first portion overlapping the first light-transmitting layer is greater than a width of a portion of the first portion overlapping the second light-transmitting layer.

[0028] According to some embodiments, a side portion of at least one of the first to fourth light-transmitting layers and the first to fourth portions is inclined.

[0029] According to some embodiments, the display device may further include a first metal layer between the second portion and the third portion.

[0030] The display device according to some embodiments may relatively improve the reliability of the light-controlling layer.

[0031] The display device according to some embodiments may relatively improve efficiency in a process of forming a light-controlling layer.

[0032] Features according to the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and more various features are included in the following description of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] The above and other aspects and features according to embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent by describing in more detail aspects according to some embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0034] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view showing a display device according to some embodiments;

[0035] Figure 2 is a plan view showing a display device according to some embodiments;

[0036] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view showing a display device according to some embodiments;

[0037] Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of the display device taken along line II';

[0038] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing that a display device according to some embodiments is applied to a vehicle;

[0039] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a display panel according to some embodiments;

[0040] Figure 7a is a cross-sectional view showing a display panel and a light control layer according to some embodiments;

[0041] Figure 7b is a cross-sectional view showing a display panel and a light control layer according to some embodiments;

[0042] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a display panel and a light control layer according to some embodiments;

[0043] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a display panel and a light control layer according to some embodiments;

[0044] Fig.10 is a cross-sectional view showing a display panel and a light control layer according to some embodiments;

[0045] Fig.11 is a cross-sectional view showing a display panel and a light control layer according to some embodiments;

[0046] Fig.12 is a cross-sectional view showing a display panel and a light control layer according to some embodiments;

[0047] Fig.13 is a cross-sectional view showing a display panel and a light control layer according to some embodiments;

[0048] Fig.14 is a cross-sectional view showing a display panel and a light control layer according to some embodiments;

[0049] Fig.15 is a cross-sectional view showing a display panel and a light control layer according to some embodiments;

[0050] Fig.16 is a cross-sectional view showing a display panel and a light control layer according to some embodiments;

[0051] Fig.17 is a cross-sectional view showing a display panel and a light control layer according to still another embodiment;

[0052] Fig.18 is shown for making Figure 8 A flowchart of a method for displaying a device according to some embodiments is shown;

[0053] Fig.19 and Fig. 20 It is shown Fig.18 A cross-sectional view of aspects of operation S100;

[0054] Fig.21 and Fig. 22 It is shown Fig.18 A cross-sectional view of aspects of operation S200;

[0055] Fig.23 and Fig.24 It is shown Fig.18 A cross-sectional view of aspects of operation S300;

[0056] Fig.25 and Fig.26 It is shown Fig.18 A cross-sectional view of aspects of operation S400; and

[0057] Fig. 27 It is shown Fig.18 A cross-sectional view of aspects of operation S500. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] Aspects of some embodiments of the present invention will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which various aspects of some embodiments of the present invention are shown. However, the present invention can be implemented in different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. On the contrary, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the present invention to those skilled in the art.

[0059] It will also be understood that when a layer is referred to as being 'on' another layer or substrate, it can be directly on the other layer or substrate, or intervening layers may also be present. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same components.

[0060] Hereinafter, aspects of some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0061] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view showing a display device according to some embodiments. Figure 2 is a plan view showing a display device according to some embodiments. Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view showing a display device according to some embodiments.

[0062] refer to Figures 1 to 3 The display device 10 is a device that displays a moving image (e.g., a video image) or a still image (e.g., a static image), and can be used as a display screen for various products such as televisions, laptop computers, monitors, billboards, and devices for the Internet of Things (IoT), and portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, smart phones, tablet personal computers (PCs), smart watches, watch phones, mobile communication terminals, electronic notepads, e-books, portable multimedia players (PMPs), navigators, and ultra-mobile PCs (UMPCs). The display device 10 may be any one of an organic light-emitting display device, a liquid crystal display device, a plasma display device, a field emission display device, an electrophoretic display device, an electrowetting display device, a quantum dot light-emitting display device, and a micro-LED display device. The following description will be based on the display device 10 being an organic light-emitting display device, but is not limited thereto according to the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0063] The display device 10 according to some embodiments may include a display panel 100 , a display driving circuit 250 , a circuit board 300 , and a touch driving circuit 400 .

[0064] The display panel 100 may include a plurality of pixels PX arranged in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. Each of the pixels PX may have a planar shape such as a rectangular shape, a square shape, or a diamond shape. For example, as shown in the figure, each of the pixels PX may have a square planar shape, but is not limited thereto. Each of the pixels PX may have various shapes on a plane such as another polygonal shape, a circular shape, and an elliptical shape.

[0065] In the illustrated figures, the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 are horizontal directions and intersect each other. For example, the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 may be orthogonal to each other. The third direction DR3 intersects the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 and may be, for example, a vertical direction orthogonal to the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0066] The display panel 100 may include a main area MA and a protrusion area PA protruding from one side of the main area MA.

[0067] The main area MA may be formed as a plane in a rectangular shape having short sides in a first direction DR1 and long sides in a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. The corners where the short sides in the first direction DR1 and the long sides in the second direction DR2 intersect may be rounded to have a curvature (e.g., a set or predetermined curvature) or formed at right angles. The planar shape of the display device 10 is not limited to a rectangular shape, and may be formed in another polygonal shape, a circular shape, or an elliptical shape. The main area MA may be formed to be flat, but is not limited thereto according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The main area MA may include curved portions formed at the left and right ends. In this case, the curved portion may have a constant curvature or a variable curvature.

[0068] The main area MA includes a display area DA in which pixels PX are formed to display images and a non-display area NDA which is a peripheral area of ​​the display area DA (eg, at the periphery of the display area DA or outside a position occupied by the display area DA).

[0069] The pixels PX and the scan lines, data lines, and power lines connected to the pixels PX may be located in the display area DA. When the main area MA includes a curved portion, the display area DA may be located in the curved portion. In this case, the image of the display panel 100 may be seen even in the curved portion.

[0070] The non-display area NDA may be defined as a region from the outside of the display area DA to the edge of the display panel 100. A scan driver for applying scan signals to scan lines and link lines for connecting data lines with the display driving circuit 250 may be located in the non-display area NDA.

[0071] The protruding area PA may protrude from one side of the main area MA. Figure 2 As shown, the protrusion area PA may protrude from the lower side of the main area MA. A length of the protrusion area PA in the first direction DR1 may be shorter than a length of the main area MA in the first direction DR1.

[0072] The protruding area PA may include a bending area BA and a pad area PDA. In this case, the pad area PDA may be located on one side of the bending area BA, and the main area MA may be located on the other side of the bending area BA. For example, in a plan view, the pad area PDA may be located below the bending area BA, and the main area MA may be located above the bending area BA.

[0073] The display panel 100 may be flexibly formed to be curved, bent, folded, or rolled. Therefore, the display panel 100 may be bent in the thickness direction (i.e., in the third direction DR3) in the bending area BA. In this case, one surface of the pad area PDA of the display panel 100 is oriented upward before the display panel 100 is bent, but one surface of the pad area PDA of the display panel 100 is oriented downward after the display panel 100 is bent. As a result, the pad area PDA is located below the main area MA and may therefore overlap with the main area MA.

[0074] Pads electrically connected to the display driving circuit 250 and the circuit board 300 may be located in the pad area PDA of the display panel 100 .

[0075] The display driving circuit 250 outputs a signal and a voltage for driving the display panel 100. For example, the display driving circuit 250 may provide a data voltage to a data line. In addition, the display driving circuit 250 may provide a power voltage to a power line and provide a scan control signal to a scan driver. The display driving circuit 250 may be formed by an integrated circuit (IC), and then may be mounted on the display panel 100 in a chip on glass (COG) mode, a chip on plastic (COP) mode, or an ultrasonic bonding mode in a pad area PDA, but is not limited thereto. For example, the display driving circuit 250 may be mounted on a circuit board 300.

[0076] The pads may include a display pad electrically connected to the display driving circuit 250 and a touch pad electrically connected to the touch line.

[0077] The circuit board 300 may be attached to the pad by using an anisotropic conductive film. Therefore, the leads of the circuit board 300 may be electrically connected to the pad. The circuit board 300 may be a flexible printed circuit board, a rigid printed circuit board, or a flexible film such as a chip on film.

[0078] The touch driving circuit 400 may be connected to the touch sensor layer TSU (see Figure 4 ) of the touch electrode. The touch driving circuit 400 applies a driving signal to the touch sensor layer TSU (see Figure 4) and measure the capacitance value of the touch electrode. The driving signal may be a signal having a plurality of driving pulses. The touch driving circuit 400 may determine whether a touch is input according to the capacitance value, and may calculate the touch coordinates input by the touch.

[0079] The touch driving circuit 400 may be located on the circuit board 300. The touch driving circuit 400 may be formed of an integrated circuit (IC) and mounted on the circuit board 300.

[0080] In the display device 10 according to some embodiments, the display panel 100 may further include a light control layer LCL.

[0081] The light control layer LCL may be directly located in the main area MA of the display panel 100. For example, the light control layer LCL may be embedded in the display panel 100 and directly located in the main area MA of the display panel 100. Since the light control layer LCL is embedded in the display panel 100, the thickness and manufacturing cost of the display device 10 may be reduced compared to the case where a separate light control film is attached.

[0082] According to some embodiments, the light control layer LCL may be located in the display area DA of the main area MA. The light control layer LCL may adjust a viewing angle of light emitted from the display area DA of the display panel 100.

[0083] The light control layer LCL may include transmission areas OA arranged in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 and non-transmission areas LSA surrounding the transmission areas OA.

[0084] The transmission area OA may be a region in which the light shielding layer LS is not positioned (see Figure 7a The transmission area OA may be a region through which light is transmitted, and may extend along the third direction DR3.

[0085] Each of the transmission areas OA is as follows Figure 1 and Figure 2 The illustrated area may have a rectangular shape in a plane, but the embodiments according to the present disclosure are not limited thereto. Each of the transmission areas OA may have a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or another polygonal shape in a plane.

[0086] According to some embodiments, the transmission area OA may have a shape extending in the first direction DR1 or the second direction DR2. Figure 3 As shown, the transmission area OA may extend in the first direction DR1 and may be arranged along the second direction DR2. For another example, the transmission area OA may extend in the second direction DR2 and may be arranged along the first direction DR1.

[0087] like Figure 1As shown, when the transmission area OA is arranged along the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2, the viewing angle can be controlled in both the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. Figure 3 As shown, when the transmission area OA is arranged along the first direction DR1 or the second direction DR2, the viewing angle can be controlled in the first direction DR1 or the second direction DR2. That is, the arrangement and shape of the transmission area OA may be variously modified according to the desired control direction of the viewing angle.

[0088] The non-transmission area LSA may be a remaining area of ​​the light control layer LCL except for the transmission area OA. The non-transmission area LSA may be a region in which the light shielding layer LS (see Figure 7a ) area.

[0089] In the drawings, the non-transmission area LSA is shown to be arranged to surround the transmission area OA, but is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the non-transmission area LSA may extend in the same direction as the transmission area OA and then may be arranged to alternate with the transmission area OA. Figure 3 As shown, when the transmission area OA extends in the first direction DR1, the non-transmission area LSA may extend in the first direction DR1 and may be arranged to alternate with the transmission area OA in the second direction DR2.

[0090] The light control layer LCL may include a light shielding layer LS (see Figure 7a ) and the light-transmitting layer LT (see Figure 7a ), the light shielding layer LS shields the light emitting layer 172 from the display panel 100 (see Figure 6 ) emits light, and the light-transmitting layer LT transmits light. Figure 7a The detailed structure of the light control layer LCL is described.

[0091] Figure 4 It is shown along Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of the display device taken along line II'.

[0092] refer to Figure 4 The display device 10 may include a display panel 100 in which a light control layer LCL is embedded. The display panel 100 may include a base member BS, a thin film transistor layer TFTL, a light emitting element layer EML, a thin film encapsulation layer TFEL, a touch sensor layer TSU, and a light control layer LCL.

[0093] The base member BS may include a substrate. The substrate may be made of an insulating material such as glass, quartz or a polymer resin. Examples of polymer materials include polyethersulfone (PES), polyacrylate (PA), polyarylate (PAR), polyetherimide (PEI), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyallyl ester, polyimide (PI), polycarbonate (PC), cellulose triacetate (CAT), cellulose acetate propionate (CAP) or a combination thereof. Alternatively, the substrate may include a metal material.

[0094] The substrate may be a rigid substrate, or may be a flexible substrate capable of being subjected to bending, folding, curling, etc. When the substrate is a flexible substrate, the substrate may be formed of polyimide (PI), but is not limited thereto.

[0095] The thin film transistor layer TFTL may be located on the base member BS. Scan lines, data lines, power lines, scan control lines, wirings connecting pads with data lines, etc., and thin film transistors of corresponding pixels may be formed in the thin film transistor layer TFTL. Each of the thin film transistors may include a gate electrode, a semiconductor layer, a source electrode, and a drain electrode.

[0096] The thin film transistor layer TFTL may be located in the display area DA and the non-display area NDA. For example, thin film transistors, scan lines, data lines, and power lines of corresponding pixels of the thin film transistor layer TFTL may be located in the display area DA. Scan control lines and wirings of the thin film transistor layer TFTL may be located in the non-display area NDA.

[0097] The light emitting element layer EML may be located on the thin film transistor layer TFTL. The light emitting element layer EML may include a pixel and a pixel defining layer for defining the pixel, wherein the pixel includes a first electrode, a light emitting layer, and a second electrode. The light emitting layer may be an organic light emitting layer including an organic material. In this case, the light emitting layer may include a hole transport layer, an organic light emitting layer, and an electron transport layer. When a voltage (e.g., a set or predetermined voltage) is applied to the first electrode and a cathode voltage is applied to the second electrode through the thin film transistor of the thin film transistor layer TFTL, holes and electrons move to the organic light emitting layer through the hole transport layer and the electron transport layer, respectively, and recombine with each other in the organic light emitting layer to emit light. The pixel of the light emitting element layer EML may be located in the display area DA.

[0098] The thin film encapsulation layer TFEL may be located on the light emitting element layer EML. The thin film encapsulation layer TFEL may be used to prevent oxygen or moisture from penetrating into the light emitting element layer EML. To this end, the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL may include at least one inorganic layer. The inorganic layer may be a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL may be used to protect the light emitting element layer EML from particles such as dust. To this end, the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL may include at least one organic layer. The organic layer may be an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenolic resin, a polyamide resin, or a polyimide resin, but is not limited thereto.

[0099] The thin film encapsulation layer TFEL may be located in both the display area DA and the non-display area NDA. In detail, the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL may be arranged to cover the light emitting element layer EML in the display area DA and the non-display area NDA, and to cover the thin film transistor layer TFTL in the non-display area NDA.

[0100] The touch sensor layer TSU may be located on the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL. When the touch sensor layer TSU is directly located on the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL, the thickness of the display device 10 may be reduced compared to a case where a separate touch panel including the touch sensor layer TSU is attached to the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL.

[0101] The touch sensor layer TSU may include a touch electrode for sensing a user's touch in a capacitive manner and a touch wire for connecting a pad with the touch electrode. For example, the touch sensor layer TSU may sense a user's touch in a self-capacitive manner or a mutual-capacitive manner.

[0102] The touch electrodes of the touch sensor layer TSU may be located in the touch sensor area overlapping the display area DA. The touch lines of the touch sensor layer TSU may be located in the touch peripheral area overlapping the non-display area NDA.

[0103] The light control layer LCL may be located on the touch sensor layer TSU. The light control layer LCL may be arranged to overlap with the display area DA. The light control layer LCL may be used to absorb or block light emitted from the light emitting element layer EML that moves at an angle (e.g., a set or predetermined angle) relative to the third direction DR3. That is, the light control layer LCL may control the viewing angle.

[0104] According to some embodiments, the display device 10 may further include a cover window. The cover window may be additionally located on the light control layer LCL. In this case, the light control layer LCL and the cover window may be attached to each other by a transparent adhesive member such as an optically clear adhesive (OCA) film.

[0105] Figure 5is a schematic diagram showing that a display device according to some embodiments is applied to a vehicle.

[0106] refer to Figure 5 According to some embodiments, the display device 10 may be, for example, a display device applied to a vehicle. The vehicle may include a vehicle body constituting the exterior of the vehicle and an interior space defined by the vehicle body. The vehicle body may include a windshield W, which protects the driver and passengers from the outside world and provides a field of view for the driver. Figure 5 As shown, the display device 10 can be set in an indoor space.

[0107] According to some embodiments, the display device 10 may be located on a dashboard disposed in an interior space. For example, the display device 10 may be located on a dashboard in front of a driver's seat to provide the driver with speed information, etc., may be located on a dashboard in front of a passenger's seat to provide the passenger with entertainment information, etc., or may be located in the center of the dashboard to provide map information, etc. Figure 5 The display device 10 located on the dashboard in front of the driver's seat and the driver viewing the display screen of the display device 10 are shown.

[0108] The driver can recognize (or view) the display screen of the display device 10 through the light LGT1 emitted from the display device 10 to the driver. However, some light LGT2 of the light emitted from the display device 10 may be reflected toward the surrounding windshield W and then provided to the driver. In this case, the image reflected on the windshield W may interfere with the driver's driving. In the case of the display device 10 according to some embodiments, the forward viewing angle (the viewing angle that the driver is oriented toward the front), specifically the vertical viewing angle, of the light LGT1 and LGT2 emitted from the display device 10 can be adjusted, so that some light LGT2 of the light emitted from the display device 10 can be prevented from being provided to the driver by reflecting toward the surrounding windshield W.

[0109] In addition, some light LGT2 of the light emitted from the display device 10 may be provided to the passenger. In this case, the display device 10 may lack privacy protection. However, in the case of the display device 10 according to some embodiments, the forward viewing angle (the viewing angle that the driver is oriented toward the front), specifically the horizontal viewing angle, of the light LGT1 and LGT2 emitted from the display device 10 may be adjusted, so that the image displayed on the display device for the vehicle located in front of the driver may not be provided to the passenger.

[0110] The viewing angle may be adjusted by the light control layer LCL. The viewing angle may be limited to an angle range (e.g., a set or predetermined angle range) by the light control layer LCL. For example, when the driver is oriented toward the front and a virtual line extending in a direction perpendicular to the display surface of the display device 10 is a normal line, the viewing angle may be an angle within 35° of the normal line. In some embodiments, an angle within 35° of the normal line may be defined as an effective viewing angle, but is not limited thereto.

[0111] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a display panel according to some embodiments. Figure 6 In the figure, for the convenience of description, the light control layer LCL is omitted.

[0112] refer to Figure 6 , the display panel 100 may include a display layer DU and a touch sensor layer TSU. The display layer DU may include a base member BS, a thin film transistor layer TFTL, a light emitting element layer EML, and a thin film encapsulation layer TFEL.

[0113] The base member BS may include a first substrate SUB1, a first buffer layer BF1 on the first substrate SUB1, and a second substrate SUB2 on the first buffer layer BF1.

[0114] The first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 may be made of an insulating material such as glass, quartz or a polymer resin. Examples of polymer materials may include polyethersulfone (PES), polyacrylate (PA), polyarylate (PAR), polyetherimide (PEI), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyallyl ester, polyimide (PI), polycarbonate (PC), cellulose triacetate (CAT), cellulose acetate propionate (CAP), or a combination thereof. Optionally, the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 may include a metal material.

[0115] Each of the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 may be a rigid substrate, or may be a flexible substrate that can be subjected to bending, folding, curling, etc. When the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 are flexible substrates, the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 may be formed of polyimide (PI), but embodiments according to the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0116] The first buffer layer BF1 may be a layer for protecting the first thin film transistor ST1 and the light emitting layer 172 from moisture that penetrates through the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 (which is easily penetrated by moisture). The first buffer layer BF1 may include a plurality of inorganic layers alternately stacked. For example, the first buffer layer BF1 may be formed of a multilayer in which one or more inorganic layers of a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, and an aluminum oxide layer are alternately stacked.

[0117] The thin film transistor layer TFTL may include a lower metal layer BML, a second buffer layer BF2, a first thin film transistor ST1, a first gate insulating layer GI1, a first interlayer insulating layer 141, a first capacitor electrode CAE1, a second interlayer insulating layer 142, a first anode connection electrode ANDE1, a first organic layer 160, a second anode connection electrode ANDE2, and a second organic layer 180. Both the first interlayer insulating layer 141 and the second interlayer insulating layer 142 are referred to as an interlayer insulating layer 140.

[0118] The lower metal layer BML may be located on the second substrate SUB2. The lower metal layer BML may be arranged to overlap with the first active layer ACT1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 in the third direction DR3 so as to prevent leakage current from occurring when light is incident on the first active layer ACT1 of the first thin film transistor ST1. The lower metal layer BML may be formed of a single layer or multiple layers made of one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu), or an alloy thereof. The lower metal layer BML may be omitted.

[0119] The second buffer layer BF2 may be located on the lower metal layer BML. The second buffer layer BF2 is a layer for protecting the first thin film transistor ST1 and the light emitting layer 172 from moisture that penetrates through the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 (which is easily penetrated by moisture). The second buffer layer BF2 may include a plurality of inorganic layers alternately stacked. For example, the second buffer layer BF2 may be formed of a multilayer in which one or more inorganic layers of a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, and an aluminum oxide layer are alternately stacked.

[0120] The first active layer ACT1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 may be located on the second buffer layer BF2. The first active layer ACT1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 includes polycrystalline silicon, single crystal silicon, low temperature polycrystalline silicon, amorphous silicon or an oxide semiconductor. By doping the material layer where the first active layer ACT1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 is located with impurities or ions using the first gate insulating layer GI1 as a mask, the portion of the material layer not covered by the first gate insulating layer GI1 may have conductivity. Therefore, the first source electrode TS1 and the first drain electrode TD1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 may be formed.

[0121] The first gate insulating layer GI1 may be located on the first active layer ACT1 of the first thin film transistor ST1. Figure 5 , the first gate insulating layer GI1 is shown as being located between the first gate electrode TG1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 and the first active layer ACT1, but is not limited thereto. The first gate insulating layer GI1 may be located between the first interlayer insulating layer 141 and the first active layer ACT1 and between the first interlayer insulating layer 141 and the second buffer layer BF2. The first gate insulating layer GI1 may be formed of an inorganic layer such as a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer.

[0122] The first gate electrode TG1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 may be located on the first gate insulating layer GI1. The first gate electrode TG1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 may overlap the first active layer ACT1 in the third direction DR3. The first gate electrode TG1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 may be formed of a single layer or multiple layers made of any one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu), or an alloy thereof.

[0123] The first interlayer insulating layer 141 may be located on the first gate electrode TG1 of the first thin film transistor ST1. The first interlayer insulating layer 141 may be formed of an inorganic layer such as a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer. The first interlayer insulating layer 141 may include a plurality of inorganic layers.

[0124] The first capacitor electrode CAE1 may be located on the first interlayer insulating layer 141. The first capacitor electrode CAE1 may overlap with the first gate electrode TG1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 in the third direction DR3. Since the first interlayer insulating layer 141 has a dielectric constant (e.g., a set or predetermined dielectric constant), a capacitor may be formed by the first capacitor electrode CAE1, the first gate electrode TG1, and the first interlayer insulating layer 141 located between the first capacitor electrode CAE1 and the first gate electrode TG1. The first capacitor electrode CAE1 may be formed of a single layer or multiple layers made of any one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu), or an alloy thereof.

[0125] The second interlayer insulating layer 142 may be located on the first capacitor electrode CAE1. The second interlayer insulating layer 142 may be formed of an inorganic layer such as a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer. The second interlayer insulating layer 142 may include a plurality of inorganic layers.

[0126] The first anode connection electrode ANDE1 may be located on the second interlayer insulating layer 142. The first anode connection electrode ANDE1 may be connected to the first drain electrode TD1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 through the first anode contact hole ANCT1, which exposes the first drain electrode TD1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 by passing through the first interlayer insulating layer 141 and the second interlayer insulating layer 142. The first anode connection electrode ANDE1 may be formed of a single layer or multiple layers made of any one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu), or an alloy thereof.

[0127] The first organic layer 160 for planarization may be positioned on the first anode connection electrode ANDE 1. The first organic layer 160 may be formed of an organic layer such as acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenol resin, polyamide resin, and polyimide resin.

[0128] The second anode connection electrode ANDE2 may be located on the first organic layer 160. The second anode connection electrode ANDE2 may be connected to the second anode connection electrode ANDE2 through a second anode contact hole ANT2 that exposes the first anode connection electrode ANDE1 by passing through the first organic layer 160. The second anode connection electrode ANDE2 may be formed of a single layer or multiple layers made of any one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu), or an alloy thereof.

[0129] The second organic layer 180 may be located on the second anode connection electrode ANDE2. The second organic layer 180 may be formed of an organic layer such as acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenol resin, polyamide resin, and polyimide resin.

[0130] exist Figure 6 In the embodiment, the first thin film transistor ST1 is formed in a top gate mode in which the first gate electrode TG1 is positioned above the first active layer ACT1, but is not limited thereto. The first thin film transistor ST1 may be formed in a bottom gate mode in which the first gate electrode TG1 is positioned below the first active layer ACT1 or in a dual gate mode in which the first gate electrode TG1 is positioned above and below the first active layer ACT1.

[0131] The light emitting element layer EML may be positioned on the second organic layer 180. The light emitting element layer EML may include light emitting elements 170 and a bank 190. Each of the light emitting elements 170 may include a first light emitting electrode 171, a light emitting layer 172, and a second light emitting electrode 173.

[0132] The first light emitting electrode 171 may be formed on the second organic layer 180 . The first light emitting electrode 171 may be connected to the second anode connection electrode ANDE2 through the third anode contact hole ANCT3 that exposes the second anode connection electrode ANDE2 by passing through the second organic layer 180 .

[0133] In a top emission structure based on the emission of light from the light emitting layer 172 toward the second light emitting electrode 173, the first light emitting electrode 171 may be formed of a metal material having high reflectivity, such as a stacked structure of aluminum and titanium (Ti / Al / Ti), a stacked structure of aluminum and ITO (ITO / Al / ITO), an APC alloy, and a stacked structure of an APC alloy and ITO (ITO / APC / ITO). The APC alloy is an alloy of silver (Ag), palladium (Pd), and copper (Cu).

[0134] The bank 190 may be formed to separate the first light emitting electrode 171 on the second organic layer 180 so as to define the light emitting area EA. The bank 190 may be formed to cover the edge of the first light emitting electrode 171. The bank 190 may be formed of an organic layer such as acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin, and polyimide resin.

[0135] The light emitting area EA indicates a region in which the first light emitting electrode 171 , the light emitting layer 172 , and the second light emitting electrode 173 are sequentially stacked so that holes from the first light emitting electrode 171 and electrons from the second light emitting electrode 173 recombine with each other in the light emitting layer 172 to emit light.

[0136] The light emitting layer 172 is formed on the first light emitting electrode 171 and the bank 190. The light emitting layer 172 may include an organic material to emit light of a color (eg, a set or predetermined color). For example, the light emitting layer 172 may include a hole transport layer, an organic material layer, and an electron transport layer.

[0137] The second light emitting electrode 173 may be located on the light emitting layer 172. The second light emitting electrode 173 may be formed to cover the light emitting layer 172. The second light emitting electrode 173 may be a common layer commonly formed in all the light emitting areas EA. According to some embodiments, a capping layer may be formed on the second light emitting electrode 173.

[0138] In the top emission structure, the second light emitting electrode 173 may be formed of a transparent conductive oxide (TCO) such as indium tin oxide (ITO) and indium zinc oxide (IZO) or a semi-transmissive conductive material such as magnesium (Mg), silver (Ag), or an alloy of magnesium (Mg) and silver (Ag). When the second light emitting electrode 173 is formed of a semi-transmissive conductive material, light emitting efficiency may be enhanced through a microcavity.

[0139] The thin film encapsulation layer TFEL may be located on the second light emitting electrode 173. The thin film encapsulation layer TFEL may include at least one inorganic layer to prevent oxygen or moisture from penetrating into the light emitting element layer EML. The thin film encapsulation layer TFEL may also include at least one organic layer to protect the light emitting element layer EML from particles such as dust. For example, the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL may include a first encapsulation layer TFE1, a second encapsulation layer TFE2, and a third encapsulation layer TFE3.

[0140] The first encapsulation layer TFE1 (e.g., the first inorganic encapsulation layer) may be located on the second light emitting electrode 173. The first encapsulation layer TFE1 may be a single-layer or multi-layer inorganic layer. The first encapsulation layer TFE1 may be formed of a single layer or a multi-layer in which one or more inorganic layers of a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, and an aluminum oxide layer are alternately stacked.

[0141] The second encapsulation layer TFE2 (e.g., the first organic encapsulation layer) may be located on the first encapsulation layer TFE1. The second encapsulation layer TFE2 may be a single-layer or multi-layer organic layer. The second encapsulation layer TFE2 may include a polymer-based material. The polymer-based material may include polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, polycarbonate, polyimide, polyethylene sulfonate, polyoxymethylene, polyarylate, hexamethyldisiloxane, acrylic resin (e.g., polymethyl methacrylate, polyacrylic acid, etc.) or any combination thereof.

[0142] The third encapsulation layer TFE3 (e.g., the second inorganic encapsulation layer) may be located on the second encapsulation layer TFE2. The third encapsulation layer TFE3 may be a single-layer or multi-layer inorganic layer. The third encapsulation layer TFE3 may include the same material as the first encapsulation layer TFE1. For example, the third encapsulation layer TFE3 may be formed by a single layer or a multi-layer, in which one or more inorganic layers of silicon nitride layers, silicon oxynitride layers, silicon oxide layers, titanium oxide layers, and aluminum oxide layers are alternately stacked.

[0143] The second encapsulation layer TFE2 may have a thickness greater than that of the first and third encapsulation layers TFE1 and TFE3. For example, the second encapsulation layer TFE2 may have a thickness of 3.3 to 6.6 μm, and the first and third encapsulation layers TFE1 and TFE3 may have a thickness of 0.55 to 1.1 μm, but the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0144] The touch sensor layer TSU may be located on the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL. The touch sensor layer TSU may include a plurality of touch electrodes for sensing a user's touch in a capacitive manner, and a touch driving circuit 400 (see FIG. Figure 1) connected to the touch line. For example, the touch sensor layer TSU can sense the user's touch in a mutual capacitance manner or a self-capacitance manner.

[0145] According to some embodiments, the touch sensor layer TSU may be located on a separate substrate positioned on the display layer DU. In this case, the substrate for supporting the touch sensor layer TSU may be an encapsulation member for encapsulating the display layer DU.

[0146] The plurality of touch electrodes of the touch sensor layer TSU may be located adjacent to the display area DA (see Figure 1 ). The touch line of the touch sensor layer TSU may be located in a touch sensor area overlapping with the non-display area NDA (see Figure 1 ) in the touch peripheral area that overlaps.

[0147] The touch sensor layer TSU may include a first touch insulating layer SIL1 , a first touch electrode REL, a second touch insulating layer SIL2 , a second touch electrode TEL, and a third touch insulating layer SIL3 .

[0148] The first touch insulating layer SIL1 may be located on the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL. The first touch insulating layer SIL1 may have insulating and optical functions. The first touch insulating layer SIL1 may include at least one inorganic layer. For example, the first touch insulating layer SIL1 may be an inorganic layer including at least one of a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, and an aluminum oxide layer. Optionally, the first touch insulating layer SIL1 may be omitted.

[0149] The first touch electrode REL may be located on the first touch insulating layer SIL1. The first touch electrode REL may not overlap the light emitting element 170. The first touch electrode REL may be formed of a single layer of molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), or indium tin oxide (ITO), or may be formed of a stacked structure of aluminum and titanium (Ti / Al / Ti), a stacked structure of aluminum and ITO (ITO / Al / ITO), an APC alloy, or a stacked structure of an APC alloy and ITO (ITO / APC / ITO).

[0150] The second touch insulating layer SIL2 may cover the first touch electrode REL and the first touch insulating layer SIL1. The second touch insulating layer SIL2 may have insulating and optical functions. For example, the second touch insulating layer SIL2 may be formed of the material described as the first touch insulating layer SIL1.

[0151] The second touch electrode TEL may be located on the second touch insulating layer SIL2. The second touch electrode TEL may not overlap the light emitting element 170. The second touch electrode TEL may be formed of a single layer of molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), or indium tin oxide (ITO), or may be formed of a stacked structure of aluminum and titanium (Ti / Al / Ti), a stacked structure of aluminum and ITO (ITO / Al / ITO), an APC alloy, or a stacked structure of an APC alloy and ITO (ITO / APC / ITO).

[0152] The third touch insulating layer SIL3 may cover the second touch electrode TEL and the second touch insulating layer SIL2. The third touch insulating layer SIL3 may have insulating and optical functions. The third touch insulating layer SIL3 may be formed of the material described as the second touch insulating layer SIL2.

[0153] The first touch insulating layer SIL1, the second touch insulating layer SIL2, and the third touch insulating layer SIL3 may be inorganic layers, and their refractive indices may be greater than or equal to the refractive indices of the first encapsulation layer TFE1 and the third encapsulation layer TFE3, respectively. For example, the refractive indices of the first touch insulating layer SIL1, the second touch insulating layer SIL2, and the third touch insulating layer SIL3 may be 1.55 to 1.7. In the present disclosure, the refractive index may be a value measured by using light of about 550 nm under a standard state of about 20° C. and 1 atmosphere.

[0154] In some embodiments, the first touch insulating layer SIL1, the second touch insulating layer SIL2, and the third touch insulating layer SIL3 may be organic layers. For example, the first touch insulating layer SIL1, the second touch insulating layer SIL2, and the third touch insulating layer SIL3 may be organic layers such as acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin, and polyimide resin.

[0155] The touch sensor layer TSU may further include a planarization layer PAS for planarization. The planarization layer PAS may be formed of an organic layer such as acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenol resin, polyamide resin, and polyimide resin.

[0156] The refractive index of the planarization layer PAS may be the same as that of any one of the first touch insulating layer SIL1, the second touch insulating layer SIL2, and the third touch insulating layer SIL3. For example, the refractive index of the planarization layer PAS may be 1.55 to 1.7, but is not limited thereto.

[0157] Figure 7a is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display panel and a light-control layer according to some embodiments. Figure 7b is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display panel and a light-control layer according to some embodiments.

[0158] Joint Figures 1 to 3 refer to Figure 7a and Figure 7b , the light control layer LCL may be located on the touch sensor layer TSU. The light control layer LCL may control the viewing angle of light emitted from the light emitting layer 172. For example, when the light emitted from the light emitting layer 172 travels at an angle (e.g., a set or predetermined angle) or less relative to the third direction DR3, the light may be emitted to the outside. On the other hand, when the light emitted from the light emitting layer 172 travels at more than an angle (e.g., a set or predetermined angle) relative to the third direction DR3, the light may be absorbed or blocked by the light shielding layer LS, and thus may not be emitted to the outside.

[0159] The light control layer LCL may include a light transmitting layer LT, a light shielding layer LS, and an overcoat layer OC.

[0160] The light shielding layer LS may be located on the touch sensor layer TSU. The light shielding layer LS may be located between the touch sensor layer TSU and the overcoat layer OC. The light shielding layer LS may be located in the non-transmission area LSA. According to some embodiments, the light shielding layer LS may include a Figure 1 In this case, the light shielding layer LS may surround the light transmitting layer LT. According to some embodiments, the light shielding layer LS may be as shown. Figure 3 The arrangement shown is alternating with the light transmitting layers LT in the first direction DR1 or the second direction DR2.

[0161] The light shielding layer LS may absorb or shield the light emitted from the light emitting layer 172. The light shielding layer LS may include a light shielding organic material. For example, the light shielding layer LS is a photosensitive resin capable of absorbing or shielding light, and may include an organic material containing an organic black pigment, or may include an inorganic material such as carbon black.

[0162] The light-transmitting layer LT may be located on the touch sensor layer TSU. The light-transmitting layer LT may be located between the touch sensor layer TSU and the overcoat layer OC. The light-transmitting layer LT may be located in the transmission area OA. According to some embodiments, the light-transmitting layer LT may be located on the light-shielding layer LS. Figure 1 In the opening shown, and may be surrounded by the light shielding layer LS. According to some embodiments, the light-transmitting layer LT may be as shown in FIG. Figure 3 As shown, the arrangement is alternating with the light shielding layer LS in the first direction DR1 or the second direction DR2.

[0163] The light-transmitting layer LT may transmit light emitted from the light-emitting layer 172. The light-transmitting layer LT may include a transparent organic material. For example, the light-transmitting layer LT may include an organic layer such as acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin, and polyimide resin. According to some embodiments, the light-transmitting layer LT may include silicon oxynitride or silicon oxide.

[0164] The outer coating layer OC may be located on the light-transmitting layer LT and the light-shielding layer LS. The outer coating layer OC may cover the upper surface and the side of the fourth portion LS2b of the light-shielding layer LS. The outer coating layer OC may protect the light-transmitting layer LT and the light-shielding layer LS. The outer coating layer OC may include an organic material. For example, the outer coating layer OC may include at least one of an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenolic resin, a polyamide resin, and a polyimide resin.

[0165] According to some embodiments, Figure 7a As shown, the light shielding layer LS may be located only in an area other than the light emitting area EA. For example, the light shielding layer LS may overlap the bank 190 in the third direction DR3. In this case, light with a small viewing angle among the light generated from the light emitting layer 172 is less blocked, thereby preventing the brightness of the display device 10 from being reduced.

[0166] According to some embodiments, Figure 7b As shown, the light shielding layer LS may be located in the light emitting area EA and in an area other than the light emitting area EA. According to some embodiments, the light shielding layer LS may be located only in the light emitting area EA. When the light shielding layer LS is also located in the light emitting area EA, the viewing angle control characteristics of the light control layer LCL may be improved. Therefore, the total thickness of the light control layer LCL (i.e., the thickness of the light control layer LCL in the third direction DR3) may be reduced.

[0167] That is, the positional relationship between the light shielding layer LS and the light emitting area EA may be formed in various ways according to the viewing angle control characteristics and brightness characteristics of the display device 10. Figure 8 In the embodiments described in the foregoing, for ease of description, the light shielding layer LS is shown as being located only in the region other than the light emitting region EA, but is not limited thereto. In the following embodiments, the light shielding layer LS may be located in both the light emitting region EA and the region other than the light emitting region EA, or may be located only in the light emitting region EA.

[0168] In the display device 10 according to some embodiments, the light shielding layer LS and the light transmitting layer LT may include a plurality of layers. For example, the light shielding layer LS may include a first light shielding layer LS1 and a second light shielding layer LS2. The light transmitting layer LT may include a first light transmitting layer LT1, a second light transmitting layer LT2, a third light transmitting layer LT3, and a fourth light transmitting layer LT4.

[0169] The first light-transmitting layer LT1 and the second light-transmitting layer LT2 may be located between the first light-shielding layer LS1. The first light-transmitting layer LT1 may be located on the touch sensor layer TSU. The second light-transmitting layer LT2 may be located on the first light-transmitting layer LT1. The second light-transmitting layer LT2 may cover the upper surface and the side of the first light-transmitting layer LT1. When the second light-transmitting layer LT2 covers the upper surface and the side of the first light-transmitting layer LT1, the durability of the light-transmitting layer LT may be improved.

[0170] In the third direction DR3, the thickness of the first light-transmitting layer LT1 may be smaller than that of the second light-transmitting layer LT2. For example, the thickness of the first light-transmitting layer LT1 may be in the range of about 5 μm to about 10 μm, and the thickness of the second light-transmitting layer LT2 may be in the range of about 10 μm to about 20 μm.

[0171] The width L1 of the first light transparent layer LT1 may be smaller than the width L2 of the second light transparent layer LT2. For example, the width L1 of the first light transparent layer LT1 may be in the range of about 3 μm to 10 μm, and the width L2 of the second light transparent layer LT2 may be in the range of about 40 μm or less.

[0172] In some embodiments, the first light-transmitting layer LT1 and the second light-transmitting layer LT2 may include the same material, but are not limited thereto.

[0173] The first light shielding layer LS1 may be located on the touch sensor layer TSU. The first light shielding layer LS1 may include a first portion LS1a and a second portion LS1b. The first portion LS1a may be located between the second light-transmitting layers LT2. The second portion LS1b may be located on the first portion LS1a. The second portion LS1b may be located higher than the first light-transmitting layer LT1 and the second light-transmitting layer LT2 in the third direction DR3. For example, the second portion LS1b may not overlap the first light-transmitting layer LT1 and the second light-transmitting layer LT2 in the horizontal direction. The second portion LS1b may be located between the fourth light-transmitting layers LT4.

[0174] In the third direction DR3, the thickness of the first portion LS1a may be the same as the thickness of the second light-transmitting layer LT2. In the third direction DR3, the thickness of the second portion LS1b may be less than the thickness of the first portion LS1a. For example, the thickness of the first portion LS1a may be in the range of about 10 μm to about 20 μm.

[0175] The width W1 of the first portion LS1a and the width W2 of the second portion LS1b may be the same as each other. The width W1 of the first portion LS1a and the width W2 of the second portion LS1b may be smaller than the width L1 of the first light-transmitting layer LT1 and the width L2 of the second light-transmitting layer LT2. For example, the width W1 of the first portion LS1a and the width W2 of the second portion LS1b may be in the range of 10 μm or less.

[0176] The third light-transmitting layer LT3 and the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 may be located between the second light-shielding layer LS2. The third light-transmitting layer LT3 may be located on the second light-transmitting layer LT2. The fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 may be located on the third light-transmitting layer LT3. The fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 may cover the upper surface and the side of the third light-transmitting layer LT3. Since the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 covers the upper surface and the side of the third light-transmitting layer LT3, the durability of the light-transmitting layer LT may be improved.

[0177] In the third direction DR3, the thickness of the third light-transmitting layer LT3 may be smaller than that of the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4. For example, the thickness of the third light-transmitting layer LT3 may be in the range of about 5 μm to 10 μm, and the thickness of the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 may be in the range of about 10 μm to 20 μm.

[0178] The width L3 of the third light transmitting layer LT3 may be smaller than the width L4 of the fourth light transmitting layer LT4. For example, the width L3 of the third light transmitting layer LT3 may be in the range of about 3 μm to 10 μm, and the width L4 of the fourth light transmitting layer LT4 may be in the range of about 40 μm or less.

[0179] In some embodiments, the third light-transmitting layer LT3 and the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 may include the same material, but are not limited thereto.

[0180] In the third direction DR3, the thickness of the third light-transmitting layer LT3 may be the same as the thickness of the first light-transmitting layer LT1, and in the third direction DR3, the thickness of the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 may be the same as the thickness of the second light-transmitting layer LT2. The width L3 of the third light-transmitting layer LT3 may be the same as the width L1 of the first light-transmitting layer LT1, and the width L4 of the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 may be the same as the width L2 of the second light-transmitting layer LT2.

[0181] The second light shielding layer LS2 may be located on the first light shielding layer LS1. The second light shielding layer LS2 may include a third portion LS2a and a fourth portion LS2b. The third portion LS2a may be located between the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4. The fourth portion LS2b may be located on the third portion LS2a. The upper surface and the side of the fourth portion LS2b may be covered by the outer coating OC. The fourth portion LS2b may be positioned higher than the third light-transmitting layer LT3 and the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 in the third direction DR3. For example, the fourth portion LS2b may not overlap with the third light-transmitting layer LT3 and the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 in the horizontal direction.

[0182] In the third direction DR3, the sum of the thickness of the third portion LS2a and the thickness of the second portion LS1b may be the same as the thickness of the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4. In the third direction DR3, the thickness of the fourth portion LS2b may be less than the thickness of the third portion LS2a. For example, the sum of the thickness of the third portion LS2a and the thickness of the second portion LS1b may be in the range of about 10 μm to 20 μm.

[0183] The width W3 of the third portion LS2a and the width W4 of the fourth portion LS2b may be the same as each other. The width W3 of the third portion LS2a and the width W4 of the fourth portion LS2b may be smaller than the width L3 of the third light-transmitting layer LT3 and the width L4 of the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4. For example, the width W3 of the third portion LS2a and the width W4 of the fourth portion LS2b may be in the range of about 10 μm or less.

[0184] The width W3 of the third portion LS2a may be the same as the width W1 of the first portion LS1a, and the width W4 of the fourth portion LS2b may be the same as the width W2 of the second portion LS1b.

[0185] In the display device 10 according to some embodiments, the first light-transmitting layer LT1, the second light-transmitting layer LT2, the third light-transmitting layer LT3 and the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4, the first light-shielding layer LS1 and the second light-shielding layer LS2 are formed by a photolithography process in accordance with a method S1 for manufacturing a display device to be described later (see Fig.18 ) is patterned in the same manner, thereby improving the reliability of the light control layer LCL.

[0186] For example, in the display device 10 according to some embodiments, since the light control layer LCL is formed of a plurality of layers, the time required to remove the light-transmitting layer LT positioned in the non-transmitting area LSA to form the light-controlling layer LCL having the same thickness can be minimized or reduced. In addition, since the thickness of the light-transmitting layer LT positioned in the non-transmitting area LSA is reduced, the formation of a bowing profile that may occur due to the isotropy of the etchant can be minimized or reduced.

[0187] At the same time, when the light-transmitting layer LT located in the non-transmitting area LSA is removed, a photolithography process other than dry etching can be used, so that the process time and cost can be shortened, thereby relatively improving the process efficiency. In addition, when the photolithography process is used, the width of the light-shielding layer LS can be much reduced than the case where the light-transmitting layer LT is etched by dry etching. Therefore, the light control layer LCL can be applied to a high-resolution display device 10. In addition, because patterning is performed by a photolithography process, it is not necessary to remove the light-shielding layer LS filled on the upper surface by a polishing process, thereby reducing the process cost.

[0188] Will refer to it later Fig.18 Method S1 for manufacturing a display device (see Fig.18 ) is used to describe the process of forming the light control layer LCL.

[0189] Hereinafter, other aspects of the display device according to some embodiments will be described. In the following embodiments, the same elements as those of the previous embodiments will be referred to as the same reference numerals, and some redundant descriptions may be omitted or simplified, and the following description will be based on the differences from the previous embodiments.

[0190] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display panel and a light-control layer according to some embodiments. Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display panel and a light-control layer according to some embodiments. Fig.10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display panel and a light-control layer according to some embodiments. Fig.11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display panel and a light-control layer according to some embodiments.

[0191] refer to Figures 8 to 11 The display device 10 according to the present embodiment is different from the display device 10 according to the reference Figure 7a The display device 10 of some described embodiments is different in that the width W1 of the first portion LS1a, the width W2 of the second portion LS1b, the width W2 of the third portion LS2a, and the width W4 of the fourth portion LS2b of the light shielding layer LS are different from each other.

[0192] In more detail, according to Figure 8 In the case of the display device 10 of some embodiments, the width W1 of the first portion LS1a of the first light shielding layer LS1 may be greater than the width W2 of the second portion LS1b. The width W3 of the third portion LS2a of the second light shielding layer LS2 may be greater than the width W4 of the fourth portion LS2b. The width W2 of the second portion LS1b may be the same as the width W3 of the third portion LS2a.

[0193] Since the width W1 of the first portion LS1 a is greater than the width W3 of the third portion LS2 a , the width L2 of the second light-transmitting layer LT2 may be smaller than the width L4 of the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 .

[0194] In accordance with Figure 8 In the display device 10 of the embodiment, as the width of the light shielding layer LS becomes narrower upward, it can be beneficial to relatively improve the brightness. For example, even if the light included in the effective viewing angle range as described above is scattered and refracted in the light control layer LCL, the width of the light shielding layer LS becomes narrower upward, and thus the amount of light emitted to the outside can be increased.

[0195] In accordance with Fig. 9 In the case of the display device 10 of the embodiment of the present invention, the width W1 of the first portion LS1a of the first light shielding layer LS1 may be smaller than the width W2 of the second portion LS1b. The width W3 of the third portion LS2a of the second light shielding layer LS2 may be smaller than the width W4 of the fourth portion LS2b. The width W2 of the second portion LS1b may be the same as the width W3 of the third portion LS2a.

[0196] Since the width W1 of the first portion LS1 a is smaller than the width W3 of the third portion LS2 a , the width L2 of the second light-transmitting layer LT2 may be greater than the width L4 of the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 .

[0197] In accordance with Fig. 9 In the display device 10 of the embodiment, as the width of the light shielding layer LS becomes wider upward, it can help control the viewing angle. For example, as the width of the light shielding layer LS becomes wider upward, the size of the effective viewing angle can be smaller.

[0198] In accordance with Fig.10 In the case of the display device 10 of the embodiment of the present invention, the width W1 of the first portion LS1a of the first light shielding layer LS1 may be greater than the width W2 of the second portion LS1b. The width W3 of the third portion LS2a of the second light shielding layer LS2 may be less than the width W4 of the fourth portion LS2b. The width W1 of the first portion LS1a may be the same as the width W4 of the fourth portion LS2b. The width W2 of the second portion LS1b may be the same as the width W3 of the third portion LS2a.

[0199] In accordance with Fig.10 In the display device 10 of the embodiment, as the width of the light shielding layer LS becomes narrower upward and then becomes wider, the viewing angle can be controlled and the brightness can be relatively improved at the same time.

[0200] In accordance with Fig.11 In the case of the display device 10 of the embodiment of the present invention, the width W1 of the first portion LS1a of the first light shielding layer LS1 may be smaller than the width W2 of the second portion LS1b. The width W3 of the third portion LS2a of the second light shielding layer LS2 may be larger than the width W4 of the fourth portion LS2b. The width W1 of the first portion LS1a may be the same as the width W4 of the fourth portion LS2b. The width W2 of the second portion LS1b may be the same as the width W3 of the third portion LS2a.

[0201] In accordance with Fig.11 In the display device 10 of the embodiment, as the width of the light shielding layer LS becomes wider upward and then narrower, the viewing angle can be controlled and the brightness can be relatively improved at the same time.

[0202] Fig.12is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display panel and a light-control layer according to some embodiments.

[0203] refer to Fig.12 The display device 10 according to the present embodiment is different from the display device 10 according to the reference Figure 7a The display device 10 of the described embodiment is different in that the second light-transmitting layer LT2 is not in contact with the side of the first light-transmitting layer LT1 , and the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 is not in contact with the side of the third light-transmitting layer LT3 .

[0204] In more detail, the second light transparent layer LT2 may be located on the first light transparent layer LT1. The second light transparent layer LT2 may be in contact with the upper surface of the first light transparent layer LT1. The second light transparent layer LT2 may not be in contact with the side of the first light transparent layer LT1.

[0205] The fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 may be located on the third light-transmitting layer LT3. The fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 may be in contact with the upper surface of the third light-transmitting layer LT3. The fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 may not be in contact with the side of the third light-transmitting layer LT3.

[0206] The width L2 of the second light-transmitting layer LT2 may be the same as the width L1 of the first light-transmitting layer LT1. The width L4 of the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 may be the same as the width L3 of the third light-transmitting layer LT3. The width L1 of the first light-transmitting layer LT1, the width L2 of the second light-transmitting layer LT2, the width L3 of the third light-transmitting layer LT3, and the width L4 of the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 may be the same as each other.

[0207] The first portion LS1a of the first light shielding layer LS1 may be located between the first light transmitting layers LT1 and between the second light transmitting layers LT2. The second portion LS1b may be located between the third light transmitting layers LT3. The third portion LS2a may be located between the third light transmitting layers LT3 and between the fourth light transmitting layers LT4. The fourth portion LS2b may be covered by an overcoat layer OC.

[0208] Fig.13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display panel and a light-control layer according to some embodiments. Fig.14 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display panel and a light-control layer according to some embodiments.

[0209] refer to Fig.13 and Fig.14 The display device 10 according to the present embodiment is different from the display device 10 according to the reference Fig.12 The display device 10 of some described embodiments is different in that the width L1 of the first light-transmitting layer LT1, the width L2 of the second light-transmitting layer LT2, the width L3 of the third light-transmitting layer LT3, and the width L4 of the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 are different from each other.

[0210] In more detail, according to Fig.13In the case of the display device 10 of the embodiment of the present invention, the width L1 of the first light-transmitting layer LT1 may be greater than the width L2 of the second light-transmitting layer LT2. The width L3 of the third light-transmitting layer LT3 may be greater than the width L4 of the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4. According to some embodiments, the width L2 of the second light-transmitting layer LT2 may be the same as the width L3 of the third light-transmitting layer LT3.

[0211] Therefore, the width W1a of the portion of the first portion LS1a of the first light-shielding layer LS1 that overlaps with the first light-transmitting layer LT1 in the horizontal direction may be smaller than the width W1b of the portion of the first portion LS1a of the first light-shielding layer LS1 that overlaps with the second light-transmitting layer LT2 in the horizontal direction. The width W3a of the portion of the third portion LS2a of the second light-shielding layer LS2 that overlaps with the third light-transmitting layer LT3 in the horizontal direction may be smaller than the width W3b of the portion of the third portion LS2a of the second light-shielding layer LS2 that overlaps with the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 in the horizontal direction. According to some embodiments, the width W2 of the second portion LS1b may be the same as the width W1b of the portion of the first portion LS1a that overlaps with the second light-transmitting layer LT2 in the horizontal direction, and the width W4 of the fourth portion LS2b may be the same as the width W3b of the portion of the third portion LS2a that overlaps with the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 in the horizontal direction.

[0212] In the drawings, the width L2 of the second light-transmitting layer LT2 is shown to be the same as the width L3 of the third light-transmitting layer LT3, but is not limited thereto. For example, the width L2 of the second light-transmitting layer LT2 may be greater than the width L3 of the third light-transmitting layer LT3. In this case, the width W2 of the second portion LS1b may be greater than the width W1b of the portion of the first portion LS1a that overlaps the second light-transmitting layer LT2 in the horizontal direction.

[0213] In addition, in the drawings, the width W4 of the fourth portion LS2b is shown as being the same as the width W3b of the portion of the third portion LS2a that overlaps with the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 in the horizontal direction, but is not limited thereto. For example, the width W4 of the fourth portion LS2b may be greater than the width W3b of the portion of the third portion LS2a that overlaps with the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 in the horizontal direction.

[0214] In accordance with Fig.13 In the display device 10 of the embodiment, as the width of the light-transmitting layer LT becomes narrower upward, the width of the light-shielding layer LS may become wider upward. Therefore, it is possible to help control the viewing angle.

[0215] In accordance with Fig.14In the case of the display device 10 of the embodiment of the present invention, the width L1 of the first light-transmitting layer LT1 may be smaller than the width L2 of the second light-transmitting layer LT2. The width L3 of the third light-transmitting layer LT3 may be smaller than the width L4 of the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4. According to some embodiments, the width L2 of the second light-transmitting layer LT2 may be the same as the width L3 of the third light-transmitting layer LT3.

[0216] Therefore, the width W1a of the portion of the first portion LS1a of the first light-shielding layer LS1 that overlaps with the first light-transmitting layer LT1 in the horizontal direction may be greater than the width W1b of the portion of the first portion LS1a that overlaps with the second light-transmitting layer LT2 in the horizontal direction. The width W3a of the portion of the third portion LS2a of the second light-shielding layer LS2 that overlaps with the third light-transmitting layer LT3 in the horizontal direction may be greater than the width W3b of the portion of the third portion LS2a that overlaps with the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 in the horizontal direction. According to some embodiments, the width W2 of the second portion LS1b may be the same as the width W1b of the portion of the first portion LS1a that overlaps with the second light-transmitting layer LT2 in the horizontal direction, and the width W4 of the fourth portion LS2b may be the same as the width W3b of the portion of the third portion LS2a that overlaps with the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 in the horizontal direction.

[0217] In the drawings, the width L2 of the second light-transmitting layer LT2 is shown to be the same as the width L3 of the third light-transmitting layer LT3, but is not limited thereto. For example, the width L2 of the second light-transmitting layer LT2 may be smaller than the width L3 of the third light-transmitting layer LT3. In this case, the width W2 of the second portion LS1b may be smaller than the width W1b of the portion of the first portion LS1a that overlaps the second light-transmitting layer LT2 in the horizontal direction.

[0218] In addition, in the drawings, the width W4 of the fourth portion LS2b is shown as being the same as the width W3b of the portion of the third portion LS2a that overlaps with the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 in the horizontal direction, but is not limited thereto. For example, the width W4 of the fourth portion LS2b may be smaller than the width W3b of the portion of the third portion LS2a that overlaps with the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 in the horizontal direction.

[0219] In accordance with Fig.14 In the display device 10 of the embodiment, as the width of the light-transmitting layer LT becomes wider upward, the width of the light-shielding layer LS may become narrower upward. Therefore, it may contribute to relatively improving the brightness.

[0220] Fig.15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display panel and a light-control layer according to some embodiments. Fig.16 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display panel and a light-control layer according to some embodiments.

[0221] refer to Fig.15 and Fig.16 The display device 10 according to the present embodiment is different from the display device 10 according to the reference Figure 7a The display device 10 of the described embodiment is different in that the side portions of the light transmitting layer LT and the side portions of the light shielding layer LS are inclined.

[0222] In more detail, according to Fig.15 In the case of the display device 10 of the embodiment of the present invention, each of the first light-transmitting layer LT1, the second light-transmitting layer LT2, the third light-transmitting layer LT3, and the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 may have a shape in which the width becomes narrower from the lower portion to the upper portion. Each of the first portion LS1a and the second portion LS1b of the first light-shielding layer LS1 and the third portion LS2a and the fourth portion LS2b of the second light-shielding layer LS2 may have a shape in which the width becomes wider from the lower portion to the upper portion.

[0223] The cross-sections of the first light-transmitting layer LT1, the second light-transmitting layer LT2, the third light-transmitting layer LT3, and the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 may have a forward tapered shape. The cross-sections of the first portion LS1a and the second portion LS1b of the first light-shielding layer LS1 and the third portion LS2a and the fourth portion LS2b of the second light-shielding layer LS2 may have an inverted tapered shape.

[0224] The average width AL1 of the first light-transmitting layer LT1 may be smaller than the average width AL2 of the second light-transmitting layer LT2, and the average width AL3 of the third light-transmitting layer LT3 may be smaller than the average width AL4 of the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4. According to some embodiments, the average width AL1 of the first light-transmitting layer LT1 may be the same as the average width AL3 of the third light-transmitting layer LT3, and the average width AL2 of the second light-transmitting layer LT2 may be the same as the average width AL4 of the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4. The average width represents an average value of the width in the horizontal direction.

[0225] The average width AW1 of the first portion LS1 a may be greater than the average width AW2 of the second portion LS1 b , and the average width AW3 of the third portion LS2 a may be greater than the average width AW4 of the fourth portion LS2 b .

[0226] In accordance with Fig.16 In the case of the display device 10 of the embodiment of the present invention, each of the first light-transmitting layer LT1, the second light-transmitting layer LT2, the third light-transmitting layer LT3, and the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 may have a shape in which the width widens from the lower portion to the upper portion. The first portion LS1a and the second portion LS1b of the first light-shielding layer LS1 and the third portion LS2a and the fourth portion LS2b of the second light-shielding layer LS2 may have a shape in which the width narrows from the lower portion to the upper portion.

[0227] The cross-sections of the first light-transmitting layer LT1, the second light-transmitting layer LT2, the third light-transmitting layer LT3, and the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 may have an inverted tapered shape. The cross-sections of the first portion LS1a and the second portion LS1b of the first light-shielding layer LS1 and the third portion LS2a and the fourth portion LS2b of the second light-shielding layer LS2 may have a forward tapered shape.

[0228] The average width AL1 of the first light-transmitting layer LT1 may be smaller than the average width AL2 of the second light-transmitting layer LT2, and the average width AL3 of the third light-transmitting layer LT3 may be smaller than the average width AL4 of the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4. According to some embodiments, the average width AL1 of the first light-transmitting layer LT1 may be the same as the average width AL3 of the third light-transmitting layer LT3, and the average width AL2 of the second light-transmitting layer LT2 may be the same as the average width AL4 of the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4.

[0229] The average width AW1 of the first portion LS1 a may be smaller than the average width AW2 of the second portion LS1 b , and the average width AW3 of the third portion LS2 a may be smaller than the average width AW4 of the fourth portion LS2 b .

[0230] Fig.17 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display panel and a light-control layer according to some embodiments.

[0231] refer to Fig.17 The display device 10 according to the present embodiment is different from the display device 10 according to the reference Figure 7a The display device 10 of the described embodiment is different in that the display device 10 according to the current embodiment further includes a first metal layer MTL1 and a second metal layer MTL2 .

[0232] In more detail, the light control layer LCL may further include a first metal layer MTL1 and a second metal layer MTL2.

[0233] The first metal layer MTL1 may be located on the first light shielding layer LS1. The first metal layer MTL1 may be located on the second portion LS1b of the first light shielding layer LS1. The second metal layer MTL2 may be located on the second light shielding layer LS2. The second metal layer MTL2 may be located on the fourth portion LS2b of the second light shielding layer LS2.

[0234] The first metal layer MTL1 and the second metal layer MTL2 may be a first hard mask HM1 (see Fig.21 ) and a second hard mask HM2 (see Fig.25 ), which are used to be described later in the method S1 for manufacturing a display device (see Fig.18 ) The light shielding layer LS is patterned in the process. After the patterning process of the light shielding layer LS, the first metal layer MTL1 and the second metal layer MTL2 may not be removed.

[0235] Therefore, since it is not necessary to perform the step of removing the first hard mask HM1 (see Fig.21 ) and a second hard mask HM2 (see Fig.25 )’s separate stripping process, so the process efficiency can be relatively improved.

[0236] Fig.18 is shown for manufacturing according to Figure 8 A flowchart of a method for displaying a device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig.19 and Fig. 20 It is shown Fig.18 FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of step S100. Fig.21 and Fig. 22 It is shown Fig.18 FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of step S200. Fig.23 and Fig.24 It is shown Fig.18 FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of step S300. Fig.25 and Fig.26 It is shown Fig.18 FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of step S400. Fig. 27 It is shown Fig.18 FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of step S500.

[0237] refer to Figures 18 to 27 , used to manufacture according to Figure 8 Method S1 of the display device of the embodiment may include: step S100, forming a first light-transmitting layer and forming a second light-transmitting layer on the first light-transmitting layer; step S200, forming a first light-shielding layer between the second light-transmitting layers; step S300, forming a third light-transmitting layer on the second light-transmitting layer and forming a fourth light-transmitting layer on the third light-transmitting layer; step S400, forming a second light-shielding layer between the fourth light-transmitting layers; and step S500, forming an outer coating layer on the second light-shielding layer.

[0238] First, if Fig.19 As shown, in step S100 of forming the first light-transmitting layer and forming the second light-transmitting layer on the first light-transmitting layer, the first light-transmitting layer LT1 may be patterned on the touch sensor layer TSU by a photolithography process.

[0239] For example, the material for forming the first light-transmitting layer LT1 may be positioned on the entire surface of the touch sensor layer TSU by deposition, etc. Thereafter, an exposure process may be performed on the material for forming the first light-transmitting layer LT1. After performing the exposure process, the first light-transmitting layer LT1 of a desired pattern may be formed by a development process.

[0240] Next, if Fig. 20 As shown, the material for forming the second light-transmitting layer LT2 can be deposited to form a Fig.19The material for forming the second light-transmitting layer LT2 can be not only positioned on the upper surface of the first light-transmitting layer LT1, but also filled in the space between the patterned first light-transmitting layers LT1. Afterwards, the material for forming the second light-transmitting layer LT2 can be subjected to an exposure and development process, thereby forming the second light-transmitting layer LT2.

[0241] Second, if Fig.21 As shown, in the step S200 of forming the first light shielding layer between the second light transmitting layers, the first light shielding material layer LSM1 may be located between the patterned second light transmitting layers LT2 and on the second light transmitting layer LT2.

[0242] The first light shielding material layer LSM1 may be filled between the patterned second light transmitting layers LT2 by a slit coating method, but is not limited thereto. The first light shielding material layer LSM1 may be filled between the patterned second light transmitting layers LT2 by a printing method, an inkjet method, deposition, or the like.

[0243] In the process of filling the first light-shielding material layer LSM1 between the patterned second light-transmitting layers LT2 , a portion of the first light-shielding material layer LSM1 may be overfilled and thus located on the second light-transmitting layer LT2 .

[0244] The first hard mask HM1 may be located on the first light shielding material layer LSM1 overfilled on the second light transmitting layer LT2. The first light shielding material layer LSM1 may be etched using the first hard mask HM1, thereby forming the first light shielding layer LS1. According to some embodiments, the first light shielding material layer LSM1 may be etched by dry etching, but is not limited thereto.

[0245] like Fig. 22 As shown, the first portion LS1 a may be formed between the patterned second light-transmitting layers LT2 , and the second portion LS1 b may be formed on the first portion LS1 a .

[0246] Third, if Fig.23 As shown, in step S300 of forming the third light-transmitting layer on the second light-transmitting layer and forming the fourth light-transmitting layer on the third light-transmitting layer, the third light-transmitting layer LT3 may be patterned on the second light-transmitting layer LT2 by a photolithography process.

[0247] For example, the material for forming the third light-transmitting layer LT3 may be positioned on the second light-transmitting layer LT2 on the entire surface except for the portion in which the second portion LS1b is positioned. Then, exposure may be performed on the material for forming the third light-transmitting layer LT3. The third light-transmitting layer LT3 of a desired pattern may be formed by development after exposure.

[0248] Next, if Fig.24As shown, the material for forming the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 can be deposited to form a Fig.23 The material for forming the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 can be not only positioned on the upper surface of the third light-transmitting layer LT3, but also filled in the space between the patterned third light-transmitting layers LT3. Afterwards, the material for forming the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 can be exposed and developed, thereby forming the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4.

[0249] Fourth, if Fig.25 As shown, in the step S400 of forming the second light-shielding layer between the fourth light-transmitting layers, the second light-shielding material layer LSM2 may be located between the patterned fourth light-transmitting layers LT4 and on the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4.

[0250] The second light shielding material layer LSM2 may be filled between the patterned fourth light transmitting layers LT4 by a slit coating method, but is not limited thereto. The second light shielding material layer LSM2 may be filled between the patterned fourth light transmitting layers LT4 by a printing method, an inkjet method, deposition, or the like.

[0251] In the process of filling the second light-shielding material layer LSM2 between the patterned fourth light-transmitting layers LT4 , a portion of the second light-shielding material layer LSM2 may be overfilled and thus located on the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 .

[0252] The second hard mask HM2 may be located on the second light shielding material layer LSM2 overfilled on the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4. The second light shielding material layer LSM2 may be etched using the second hard mask HM2, thereby forming a second light shielding layer LS2. According to some embodiments, the second light shielding material layer LSM2 may be etched by dry etching, but is not limited thereto.

[0253] like Fig.26 As shown, the third portion LS2a may be formed between the patterned fourth light-transmitting layers LT4, and the fourth portion LS2b may be formed on the third portion LS2a.

[0254] Fifth, if Fig. 27 As shown, in step S500 of forming an outer coating layer on the second light shielding layer, an outer coating layer OC may be formed on the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 and the fourth portion LS2b. The outer coating layer OC may be disposed on the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4 and the fourth portion LS2b by deposition, etc. The outer coating layer OC may cover the upper surface and the side of the fourth portion LS2b.

[0255] In the method S1 for manufacturing a display device according to the current embodiment, the first light-transmitting layer LT1, the second light-transmitting layer LT2, the third light-transmitting layer LT3 and the fourth light-transmitting layer LT4, the first light-shielding layer LS1 and the second light-shielding layer LS2 can be patterned by a photolithography process, so that the reliability of the light control layer LCL can be relatively improved.

[0256] For example, because the light control layer LCL is formed of a plurality of layers, the time required to remove the light-transmitting layer LT positioned in the non-transmitting area LSA to form the light control layer LCL having the same thickness can be minimized or reduced. In addition, since the thickness of the light-transmitting layer LT positioned in the non-transmitting area LSA is reduced, the formation of a bowing profile that may occur due to the isotropy of the etchant can be minimized or reduced.

[0257] At the same time, when the light-transmitting layer LT located in the non-transmitting area LSA is removed, a photolithography process other than dry etching can be used, so that the process time and cost can be shortened, thereby relatively improving the process efficiency. In addition, when the photolithography process is used, the width of the light-shielding layer LS can be much reduced than the case where the light-transmitting layer LT is etched by dry etching. Therefore, the light control layer LCL can be applied to a high-resolution display device 10. In addition, because patterning is performed by a photolithography process, it is not necessary to remove the light-shielding layer LS filled on the upper surface by a polishing process, thereby reducing the process cost.

[0258] At the end of the detailed description, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that many changes and modifications may be made to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments according to the present disclosure in essence. Therefore, the disclosed embodiments of the present invention are used only in an overview and descriptive sense, and not for the purpose of limitation.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: substrate; a light emitting element layer, on the substrate, including a plurality of light emitting elements configured to emit light; as well as a light control layer, on the light emitting element layer, comprising a light-transmitting layer configured to transmit the light and a light-shielding layer for shielding the light, Wherein, the light-transmitting layer comprises: The first light-transmitting layer; a second light-transmitting layer, on the first light-transmitting layer; a third light-transmitting layer, on the second light-transmitting layer; and a fourth light-transmitting layer, on the third light-transmitting layer, Wherein, the light shielding layer comprises: A first portion, between the second light-transmitting layers; a second portion, on the first portion and between the fourth light-transmitting layers; a third portion on the second portion and between the fourth light-transmitting layers; and a fourth part, on the third part, and Wherein, the second light-transmitting layer covers the upper surface and the side of the first light-transmitting layer.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The thickness of the first light-transmitting layer is smaller than the thickness of the second light-transmitting layer.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The width of the first light-transmitting layer is smaller than the width of the second light-transmitting layer.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The width of the first portion is equal to the width of the second portion.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The width of the first portion is greater than the width of the second portion.

6. The display device according to claim 5, wherein: The width of the second portion is greater than a width of the fourth portion.

7. The display device according to claim 5, wherein: The width of the second portion is smaller than a width of the fourth portion.

8. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The width of the first portion is smaller than the width of the second portion.

9. The display device according to claim 8, wherein: The width of the second portion is smaller than a width of the fourth portion.

10. The display device according to claim 8, wherein: The width of the second portion is greater than a width of the fourth portion.

11. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: A side portion of at least one of the first to fourth light-transmitting layers and the first to fourth portions is inclined. 12 . The display device according to claim 1 , further comprising a first metal layer between the second portion and the third portion.

13. A display device comprising: substrate; a light emitting element layer, on the substrate, including a plurality of light emitting elements configured to emit light; as well as a light control layer, on the light emitting element layer, comprising a light-transmitting layer configured to transmit the light and a light-shielding layer configured to shield the light, Wherein, the light-transmitting layer comprises: The first light-transmitting layer; a second light-transmitting layer, on the first light-transmitting layer; a third light-transmitting layer, on the second light-transmitting layer; and a fourth light-transmitting layer, on the third light-transmitting layer, Wherein, the light shielding layer comprises: A first portion, between the first light-transmitting layers and between the second light-transmitting layers; a second portion, on the first portion and between the third light-transmitting layers; a third portion on the second portion and between the third light-transmitting layers and between the fourth light-transmitting layers; and a fourth part, on the third part, and The second light-transmitting layer does not contact the side of the first light-transmitting layer.

14. The display device according to claim 13, wherein: The width of the first light-transmitting layer is equal to the width of the second light-transmitting layer.

15. The display device according to claim 13, wherein: The width of the first light-transmitting layer is greater than the width of the second light-transmitting layer.

16. The display device according to claim 15, wherein: A width of a portion of the first portion overlapping the first light-transmitting layer is smaller than a width of a portion of the first portion overlapping the second light-transmitting layer.

17. The display device according to claim 13, wherein: The width of the first light-transmitting layer is smaller than the width of the second light-transmitting layer.

18. The display device according to claim 17, wherein: A width of a portion of the first portion overlapping the first light-transmitting layer is greater than a width of a portion of the first portion overlapping the second light-transmitting layer.

19. The display device according to claim 13, wherein: A side portion of at least one of the first to fourth light-transmitting layers and the first to fourth portions is inclined.

20. The display device of claim 13, further comprising a first metal layer between the second portion and the third portion.

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