Display panel, display panel manufacturing method and display device

Abstract

This application provides a display panel, a method for fabricating the display panel, and a display device. The display panel includes a substrate, a first electrode layer, a pixel defining layer, a light-emitting layer, a light-shielding layer, a reflection control layer, and an optical adjustment layer, which are sequentially disposed. The light-emitting layer is located within a first opening in the pixel defining layer. The light-shielding layer includes multiple light-shielding portions. A first portion of the reflection control layer overlaps with a portion of the light-emitting layer, and a second portion overlaps with a portion of the light-shielding layer. The distance between the first surface of the first portion in the thickness direction of the display panel and the first electrode layer is a first distance, and the distance between the third surface of the second portion in the thickness direction of the display panel and the first electrode layer is a second distance. The first distance is smaller than the second distance. The second portion of the reflection control layer of this display panel protrudes to form a low-refractive-index optical adjustment layer, reducing the fabrication process of the low-refractive-index optical adjustment layer.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of display technology, and more specifically, to a display panel, a method for manufacturing the display panel, and a display device. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of display panel technology, organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays have become a research hotspot due to their advantages such as fast response speed, high brightness, wide viewing angle, and low power consumption. Generally, to reduce the reflectivity of external light within an OLED display, a color filter or reflection control layer is typically placed on the light-emitting surface. This effectively reduces the reflection of ambient light within the OLED, improving its light emission efficiency. To further enhance the light emission efficiency, a light adjustment layer is added to regulate the angle of the emitted light. However, the reflection control layer and the light adjustment layer are usually fabricated using different processes, which are complex and can easily lead to significant losses in yield and production capacity. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The main objective of this application is to provide a display panel, a method for manufacturing the display panel, and a display device, so as to at least solve the problems of complex manufacturing processes and poor light efficiency of existing organic light-emitting display devices.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, according to one aspect of this application, a display panel is provided, comprising: a substrate; a first electrode layer located on one side of the substrate; a pixel defining layer located on the side of the first electrode layer facing away from the substrate, the pixel defining layer including a plurality of first openings; a light-emitting layer at least partially located within the first openings; a light-shielding layer located on the side of the light-emitting layer facing away from the substrate, the light-shielding layer including a plurality of second openings and light-shielding portions, the orthographic projections of the first openings on the substrate at least partially overlapping the orthographic projections of the second openings on the substrate, the light-shielding portions being disposed between adjacent second openings; and a reflection control layer located on the side of the light-shielding layer facing away from the substrate, the reflection control layer including a first portion and a second portion, the first portion and the light-emitting layer on the substrate... The first portion has at least partially overlapping orthographic projections on the substrate, and the second portion has at least partially overlapping orthographic projections on the substrate with the light-shielding portion; an optical adjustment layer is located on the side of the reflection control layer away from the substrate; wherein the first portion has opposing first and second surfaces in the thickness direction of the display panel, the first surface being located on the side of the second surface away from the substrate, and both the first and second surfaces are parallel to the substrate; the second portion has opposing third and fourth surfaces in the thickness direction of the display panel, the third surface being located on the side of the fourth surface away from the substrate; the distance between the first surface and the first electrode layer is a first distance, the distance between the third surface and the first electrode layer is a second distance, and the first distance is less than the second distance.

[0005] According to another aspect of this application, a method for fabricating a display panel according to any one of the claims is provided. The method includes: providing a substrate; sequentially forming a first electrode layer, a pixel defining layer, a light-emitting layer, a light-shielding layer, a reflection control layer, and an optical adjustment layer on the substrate, wherein the light-shielding layer includes a plurality of second openings and light-shielding portions, and the light-shielding portions are provided between two adjacent second openings; wherein a halftone mask is used to expose the reflection control layer to be formed, the halftone mask includes a first light-transmitting portion and a second light-transmitting portion, the transmittance of the first light-transmitting portion is different from the transmittance of the second light-transmitting portion, and the orthographic projection of the first light-transmitting portion on the substrate coincides with the area of ​​a first portion of the reflection control layer to be formed, and the orthographic projection of the second light-transmitting portion on the substrate coincides with the area of ​​a second portion of the reflection control layer to be formed; or, controlling the thickness of the light-shielding layer to be 2-3 μm, exposing and developing the light-shielding layer to form the light-shielding portions, and directly coating the reflection control layer on the light-shielding portions, such that the second portion of the reflection control layer has a structure protruding from the first portion.

[0006] According to another aspect of this application, a display device is provided, comprising the display panel described in any one of the claims.

[0007] Applying the technical solution of this application, the reflection control layer of the aforementioned display panel includes a first part and a second part. The first part at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the light-emitting layer on the substrate, and the second part at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the light-shielding part on the substrate. The first part has opposing first and second surfaces in the thickness direction of the display panel, with the first surface located on the side of the second surface away from the substrate. Both the first and second surfaces are parallel to the substrate. The second part has opposing third and fourth surfaces in the thickness direction of the display panel, with the third surface located on the side of the fourth surface away from the substrate. The distance between the first surface and the first electrode layer is a first distance, and the distance between the third surface and the first electrode layer is a second distance, where the first distance is less than the second distance. That is, the aforementioned display panel sets the light-shielding part as a raised structure and increases the thickness of the light-shielding part, so that during the manufacturing process, the reflection control layer is directly fabricated into a raised shape, and the raised part serves as a low-refractive-index layer. This saves one process for fabricating the low-refractive-index layer, reduces the manufacturing process, and solves the problems of complex manufacturing processes and poor light efficiency in existing organic light-emitting display devices. Attached Figure Description

[0008] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of this application. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions of this application are used to explain this application and do not constitute an undue limitation of this application. In the drawings:

[0009] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of a display panel provided in an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0010] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of another display panel provided in an embodiment according to this application is shown;

[0011] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of another display panel provided in an embodiment according to this application is shown;

[0012] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of another display panel provided in an embodiment according to this application is shown;

[0013] Figure 5 A schematic diagram showing the included angle of the transition surface of a reflection control layer of a display panel provided in an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0014] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of another display panel provided in an embodiment according to this application is shown;

[0015] Figure 7A schematic diagram of a method for manufacturing a display panel according to an embodiment of this application is shown.

[0016] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the structure of a substrate for a display panel provided in an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0017] Figure 9 It shows in Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the substrate after the first electrode layer, pixel limiting layer, light-emitting layer and common electrode are sequentially formed on the substrate;

[0018] Figure 10 It shows in Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the substrate after the encapsulation layer, touch sensing layer, light-shielding part and reflection control layer are formed sequentially on the substrate;

[0019] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the structure of a display device provided in an embodiment of this application is shown.

[0020] The above figures include the following reference numerals:

[0021] 10. Substrate; 21. First electrode layer; 22. Light-emitting layer; 23. Common electrode; 30. Pixel limiting layer; 40. Light-shielding part; 50. Reflection control layer; 60. Optical adjustment layer; 70. Encapsulation layer; 80. Touch sensing layer; 81. Protective layer; 82. Second touch insulating layer; 83. First touch insulating layer; 84. First touch electrode; 85. Second touch electrode; 90. Insulating layer; 100. Cover layer; 108. Driving circuit layer; 400. Display panel; 500. Halftone mask. Detailed Implementation

[0022] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other. This application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0023] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present application, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0024] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate for the embodiments of this application described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0025] The technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a display panel according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 1 As shown, the display panel includes: a substrate 10; a first electrode layer 21 located on one side of the substrate 10; a pixel defining layer 30 located on the side of the first electrode layer 21 facing away from the substrate 10, the pixel defining layer 30 including a plurality of first openings; a light-emitting layer 22, at least partially located within the first openings; a light-shielding layer located on the side of the light-emitting layer facing away from the substrate 10, the light-shielding layer including a plurality of second openings and light-shielding portions 40, the orthographic projections of the first openings on the substrate 10 and the orthographic projections of the second openings on the substrate 10 at least partially overlap, and a light-shielding portion is provided between two adjacent second openings; and a reflection control layer 50 located on the side of the light-shielding layer facing away from the substrate 10, the reflection control layer 50 including a first portion and a second portion, the first portion overlapping the orthographic projection of the light-emitting layer 22 on the substrate 10. The first part overlaps at least partially with the orthographic projection of the light-shielding part 40 onto the substrate 10; the optical adjustment layer 60 is located on the side of the reflection control layer 50 away from the substrate 10; wherein the first part has opposing first and second surfaces in the thickness direction of the display panel, the first surface is located on the side of the second surface away from the substrate 10, and both the first and second surfaces are parallel to the substrate 10; the second part has opposing third and fourth surfaces in the thickness direction of the display panel, the third surface is located on the side of the fourth surface away from the substrate 10; the distance between the first surface and the first electrode layer 21 is a first distance d1, and the distance between the third surface and the first electrode layer 21 is a second distance d2, the first distance d1 being less than the second distance d2.

[0027] As mentioned in the background section, to reduce the reflectivity of external light within an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, a color filter or reflection control layer is typically placed on the light-emitting surface of the OLED. This arrangement effectively reduces the reflection of ambient light within the OLED, improving its light emission efficiency. To further enhance the light emission efficiency of the display panel, an optical adjustment layer is added to adjust the angle of the emitted light, thereby improving the light emission efficiency of the OLED display panel. This optical adjustment layer is typically a microlens array (MLP).

[0028] However, since the reflection control layer, the first optical adjustment layer and the second optical adjustment layer usually require different fabrication processes, the fabrication process is complex and can easily lead to serious losses in yield and production capacity.

[0029] In the above embodiments, the light-shielding part is set as a raised structure. That is, by adjusting the thickness of the light-shielding part, the reflection control layer is directly prepared into a raised shape during the preparation process, and the raised part is directly used as a low refractive index layer. In this way, it is no longer necessary to prepare a first optical adjustment layer with low refractive index, saving a process for preparing a low refractive index layer, reducing the process, and solving the problem that the existing organic light-emitting display device has a relatively complex process and poor light efficiency.

[0030] In addition, in the above embodiments, the substrate can be a rigid substrate, such as a glass substrate, or a flexible substrate, such as a polyimide substrate. The choice of substrate material can be made according to actual design requirements, and the embodiments of the present invention do not impose specific limitations. The substrate is usually arranged across its entire surface, with a portion located in the display area of ​​the display panel.

[0031] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, a first electrode layer 21 and a light-emitting layer 22 are disposed on one side of the substrate 10. The light-emitting layer is used to achieve the display effect of the display panel. The light-emitting element includes the first electrode layer 21 and the light-emitting layer 22. The first electrode layer 21 has multiple openings, and multiple pixel electrodes are located between two adjacent openings. One light-emitting element is located along the thickness direction of the display panel (i.e.,...). Figure 1 In the direction a), a pixel electrode (anode), a light-emitting layer 22, and a common electrode 23 (cathode) are sequentially arranged. Each light-emitting element emits light of a different wavelength. For a color display panel, the light-emitting elements include at least a red light-emitting element with a corresponding red organic light-emitting layer; a green light-emitting element with a corresponding green organic light-emitting layer; and a blue light-emitting element with a corresponding blue organic light-emitting layer. The light-emitting elements can also be micro-light-emitting elements such as sub-millimeter light-emitting diodes (MiniLEDs) or micrometer light-emitting diodes (MicroLEDs). Figure 3 For example, Figure 3 The structure of the first light-emitting element LED1, the second light-emitting element LED2, and the third light-emitting element LED3 is shown.

[0032] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, a driving circuit layer 108 is also disposed between the light-emitting element and the substrate 10, and the driving circuit layer 108 is provided with multiple pixel driving circuits (such as...). Figure 4 The pixel drivers (TR1, TR2, and TR3) are electrically connected to the light-emitting elements via a pixel driving circuit. This circuit provides driving signals to the light-emitting elements, ensuring proper display. The specific configuration of the pixel driving circuit can vary depending on the driving method of the light-emitting elements. Specifically, when the light-emitting elements are driven actively, the pixel driving circuit includes multiple transistors (such as...). Figure 4 As shown in the diagram, the first transistor TR1, the second transistor TR2, and the third transistor TR3 drive the first light-emitting element LED1, the second light-emitting element LED2, and the third light-emitting element LED3 to emit light, respectively. Similarly, the pixel driving circuit can also be a 2T1C circuit (i.e., a circuit with 2 transistors and 1 storage capacitor), or a 7T1C circuit (i.e., a circuit with 7 transistors and 1 storage capacitor), etc. The specific structure of the pixel driving circuit is not limited in this embodiment of the invention. Figure 4 The structure of one type of driving circuit layer is shown.

[0033] To achieve a color display effect on the display panel, the light-emitting elements typically include a first light-emitting element LED1, a second light-emitting element LED2, and a third light-emitting element LED3, each emitting a different color. The wavelength of the light emitted by the first light-emitting element LED1 is greater than the wavelength of the light emitted by the second light-emitting element LED2, and the wavelength of the light emitted by the second light-emitting element LED2 is greater than the wavelength of the light emitted by the third light-emitting element LED3.

[0034] In some instances, such as Figure 3 As shown, a capping layer 100 can be formed on the common electrode 23.

[0035] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, a light-shielding layer, a reflection control layer 50, and an optical adjustment layer 60 are sequentially disposed on the side of the light-emitting layer facing away from the substrate 10. The light-shielding layer is usually an opaque black light-shielding material, which is used to absorb the light emitted by the light-emitting element and avoid crosstalk between different light sources.

[0036] Specifically, such as Figure 2 As shown, the light-shielding layer includes multiple light-shielding portions 40, and the cross-sectional shape of the light-shielding portion 40 in a predetermined direction is one of the following: rectangular, triangular, trapezoidal, or arc-shaped. Figure 2 The diagram shows a triangular cross-sectional shape for the light-shielding portion, with the predetermined direction being the thickness direction of the display panel. The predetermined direction is as follows: Figure 2 The direction indicated by the middle arrow a. The cross-sectional shapes of multiple light-shielding parts in the predetermined direction can be the same or different, but they should be convex structures. This allows the reflection control layer to be directly fabricated into a convex shape, and the convex part can be used as a low-refractive-index layer for optical adjustment. This can save a process for fabricating the low-refractive-index layer and reduce the number of processes.

[0037] It should be noted that, Figure 1 The cross-sectional shape of the light-shielding part is trapezoidal. Figure 2 The cross-sectional shape of the light-shielding part is triangular. This part is for illustrative purposes only. In different manufacturing processes, the light-shielding part can be made into other protruding shapes. However, the shapes of all the light-shielding parts on a display panel can be the same or different, and there is no limitation on this.

[0038] In some examples, the thickness of the light-shielding layer is 2μm to 3μm. Limiting the thickness of the light-shielding layer essentially means limiting the thickness of the light-shielding portion. If the thickness of the light-shielding portion is small, the reflection control layer is prone to forming a relatively flat structure during fabrication, making it impossible to form a low-refractive-index optical adjustment layer. By controlling the thickness of the light-shielding portion within a larger range, a raised structure can be formed, allowing the reflection control layer to be directly fabricated in a raised shape. This raised portion can then be used as a low-refractive-index layer (i.e., the first optical adjustment layer) for optical adjustment. Figure 1 The optical adjustment layer 60 shown is a second optical adjustment layer with a high refractive index.

[0039] The reflection control layer can effectively reduce the reflection of ambient light within the OLED display, thereby improving the light emission efficiency of the OLED display. The optical adjustment layer can improve the light emission efficiency of the display panel by adjusting the angle of the emitted light, thus enhancing the light emission efficiency of the OLED display panel.

[0040] For visible light, the reflection control layer can have a relatively low refractive index, and the optical adjustment layer can have a relatively high refractive index, meaning the refractive index of the reflection control layer is less than that of the optical adjustment layer. The second part of the reflection control layer can serve as a low-refractive-index layer, while the optical adjustment layer serves as a high-refractive-index layer. In this embodiment, for visible light, the refractive index of the optical adjustment layer is greater than that of the reflection control layer. For example, the difference between the refractive index of the optical adjustment layer and the refractive index of the reflection control layer can be about 0.05 or greater. The difference between the refractive index of the optical adjustment layer and the refractive index of the reflection control layer can be about 0.1 or greater. When the difference between the refractive index of the optical adjustment layer and the refractive index of the reflection control layer is less than 0.05, the light efficiency of the display panel can be reduced.

[0041] Therefore, in some examples, the refractive index of the reflection control layer is set to 1.1–1.5. This reflection control layer only transmits light in the R, G, and B bands, thus replacing the RGB color filter. Furthermore, the reflection control layer is a low-refractive-index material with a refractive index of 1.1–1.5, which meets the refractive index requirements of the low-refractive-index layer in the MLP structure. At the same time, the reflection control layer is a light-transmitting material, which can ensure the light emission effect.

[0042] Specifically, due to the difference in refractive index between the first portion of the reflection control layer and the optical adjustment layer, the first portion of the reflection control layer can perform a lens function. For example, as... Figure 3 As shown, among the light emitted from the first light-emitting element LED1, the second light-emitting element LED2, and the third light-emitting element LED3, the light L incident on the first part of the reflection control layer can be emitted to the outside of the display panel in a direction perpendicular to the substrate 10. Accordingly, the light efficiency of the display panel can be improved. The area where the light-emitting elements are located is the light-emitting area, and the remaining areas are non-light-emitting areas.

[0043] The light-shielding portion may overlap with (or be disposed within) the non-light-emitting area. The light-shielding portion blocks light incident upon it. Correspondingly, the light-shielding portion prevents color mixing between the light-emitting areas. The light-shielding portion may comprise organic or inorganic materials containing black pigments or dyes.

[0044] like Figure 3 As shown, the reflection control layer 50 can cover the light-shielding portion 40. Since the display panel includes the reflection control layer, the display panel may not need a polarizer. For example, the reflection control layer can replace the function of a polarizer. In other words, the reflection control layer can selectively absorb external light reflected from the interior of the display panel according to wavelength to prevent degradation of the display panel's light efficiency.

[0045] The reflection control layer may include organic materials, such as acrylic resins.

[0046] In some instances, such as Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, the reflection control layer 50 also includes a transition surface that connects adjacent first and third surfaces. The maximum angle between the cross-section of the transition surface and the substrate 10 is α, and 65°≤α≤85°. Figure 5 As shown, B is the first surface, C is the third surface, and the surface connecting the first and third surfaces is the transition surface. The angle α between the cross-section of the transition surface and the substrate is as follows: Figure 5As shown, an angle greater than 65° is required because this allows for better control of light propagation and scattering direction, thereby improving the brightness and clarity of the display panel. When the angle is less than 65°, the number of reflections within the panel increases, leading to increased light loss and reduced brightness. Simultaneously, a smaller angle makes light more prone to diffuse reflection and scattering, affecting the clarity and contrast of the display panel. Therefore, by using an MLP solution with an angle greater than 65°, the number of light reflections can be reduced, light loss can be decreased, and diffuse reflection and scattering can be reduced, improving the brightness and clarity of the display panel. This not only allows for a smooth connection between the first and third surfaces but also reduces light loss caused by light emanating from the junction of the first and second surfaces.

[0047] The reflection control layer needs to absorb light in all wavelengths except red, green, and blue. This reduces the reflection of ambient light within the OLED display and improves the emission of red, green, and blue light. Therefore, the reflection control layer absorbs light from at least three wavelength bands selected from the following: a first wavelength band of 430nm or smaller, a second wavelength band of 480nm to 510nm, a third wavelength band of 575nm to 605nm, and a fourth wavelength band of 650nm or larger. After absorbing light from these at least three wavelength bands, the reflection control layer allows only blue light (450nm to 475nm), green light (525nm to 570nm), and red light (622nm to 770nm) to pass through, thus replacing the RGB color filter.

[0048] like Figure 3 As shown, the light emitted by the light-emitting element is refracted through the reflection control layer and then emitted through the light adjustment layer. The refraction path of the light emitted by the light-emitting element is as follows. Figure 3 As shown in Figure L, since blue light has the lowest efficiency, reducing the thickness of the reflection control layer can reduce light loss caused by light passing through the film layer, thereby further increasing the luminous efficiency of blue light and improving the lifespan of the display panel. Therefore, in some examples, when the light absorbed by the reflection control layer is of the first wavelength, the thickness of the reflection control layer is a first thickness; when the light absorbed by the reflection control layer is of the second wavelength, the thickness of the reflection control layer is a second thickness. The wavelength of the first wavelength is shorter than the wavelength of the second wavelength, and the first thickness is shorter than the second thickness.

[0049] The first band of light is blue light with a wavelength of 450nm to 475nm, the second band of light includes green light with a wavelength of 525nm to 570nm and red light with a wavelength of 622nm to 770nm, the first thickness can be 3μm, and the second thickness can be 3.5μm.

[0050] In some instances, such as Figure 6 As shown, the display panel further includes: an encapsulation layer 70, located on the side of the light-emitting layer 22 facing away from the substrate 10; and a touch sensing layer 80, located between the encapsulation layer 70 and the light-shielding layer. The encapsulation layer typically comprises a three-layer structure consisting of an inorganic layer, an organic layer, and an inorganic layer. The encapsulation layer prevents impurities, moisture, etc., from penetrating the first, second, and third light-emitting elements from the outside. The encapsulation layer may include at least one of an inorganic encapsulation layer and an organic encapsulation layer.

[0051] For example, the inorganic encapsulation layer may include at least one of silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, etc., and the organic encapsulation layer may include at least one of polymer curing materials such as polyacrylate.

[0052] The touch sensing layer can be disposed on the encapsulation layer. The touch sensing layer can be used as an input unit for a display panel. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the touch sensing layer may include at least one of a protective layer 81, a first touch insulating layer 83, a second touch insulating layer 82, a first touch electrode 84, and a second touch electrode 85.

[0053] A first touch insulating layer 83 may be disposed on the encapsulation layer 70. The first touch insulating layer 83 may comprise inorganic and / or organic materials. For example, the first touch insulating layer 83 may comprise inorganic materials such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, etc. These may be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0054] The first touch electrode 84 may be disposed on the first touch insulating layer 83. The first touch electrode 84 may overlap with a non-light-emitting area. For example, the first touch electrode 84 may include at least one of the following: metal, alloy, metal nitride, conductive metal oxide, transparent conductive material, etc. These may be used individually or in combination with each other.

[0055] A second touch insulating layer 82 may be disposed on the first touch insulating layer 83 and the first touch electrode 84. The second touch insulating layer 82 may fully cover the first touch electrode 84. The second touch insulating layer 82 may comprise inorganic or organic materials. For example, the second touch insulating layer 82 may comprise inorganic materials such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, etc. These may be used individually or in combination with each other.

[0056] The second touch electrode 85 may be disposed on the second touch insulating layer 82. The second touch electrode 85 may overlap with the non-light-emitting area. The second touch electrode 85 may be electrically connected to the first touch electrode 84 through a contact hole passing through the second touch insulating layer 82. For example, the second touch electrode 85 may include at least one of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), transparent conductive oxides, indium tin oxide (ITO), indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), graphene, silver nanowires (AgNW), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), etc. These may be used individually or in combination. The second touch electrode overlaps with and is covered by the light-shielding part, avoiding the need for an additional touch layer, which helps to reduce the thickness of the display panel and facilitates the production of thinner and lighter display panels.

[0057] The first touch electrode 84 and the second touch electrode 85 are connected through a via, forming a capacitive touch structure to ensure the touch effect of the display panel.

[0058] The first touch electrode 84 and the second touch electrode 85 may be made of the same material. As another example, the first touch electrode 84 and the second touch electrode 85 may be made of different materials.

[0059] A protective layer 81 may be disposed on the second touch insulating layer 82 and the second touch electrode 85. The protective layer 81 may sufficiently cover the second touch electrode 85. The protective layer 81 may protect the first touch electrode 84 and the second touch electrode 85. The protective layer 81 may comprise inorganic and / or organic materials. For example, the protective layer 81 may comprise inorganic materials such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, etc. These may be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0060] Figure 7 This is a logic diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing a display panel, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the method includes the following steps:

[0061] Step S101, as follows Figure 8 As shown, a substrate 10 is provided;

[0062] Step S102, as follows Figure 1 and Figure 9 As shown, a first electrode layer 21, a pixel limiting layer 30, a light-emitting layer 22, a light-shielding layer, a reflection control layer 50 and an optical adjustment layer 60 are sequentially formed on the substrate 10. The light-shielding layer includes a plurality of second openings and light-shielding portions 40, and a light-shielding portion 40 is provided between two adjacent second openings.

[0063] like Figure 9 As shown, a common electrode 23 is also formed on the side of the light-emitting layer 22 away from the substrate 10.

[0064] In this process, a halftone mask is used to expose the reflection control layer to be formed, such as... Figure 10 As shown, the halftone mask 500 includes a first light-transmitting portion and a second light-transmitting portion. The transmittance of the first light-transmitting portion is different from that of the second light-transmitting portion. The orthographic projection of the first light-transmitting portion on the substrate coincides with the area of ​​the first part of the reflection control layer to be formed. The orthographic projection of the second light-transmitting portion on the substrate coincides with the area of ​​the second part of the reflection control layer to be formed. Alternatively, the thickness of the light-shielding layer is controlled to be 2-3 μm. The light-shielding layer is exposed and developed to form the light-shielding portion. The reflection control layer is directly coated on the light-shielding portion, so that the second part of the reflection control layer has a structure that protrudes from the first part.

[0065] like Figure 10 As shown, the first light-transmitting part of the halftone mask 500 includes a first sub-light-transmitting part 510, a second sub-light-transmitting part 520, and a third sub-light-transmitting part 530. The first sub-light-transmitting part 510, the second sub-light-transmitting part 520, and the third sub-light-transmitting part 530 correspond to the first light-emitting element, the second light-emitting element, and the third light-emitting element, respectively. The first light-emitting element, the second light-emitting element, and the third light-emitting element are light-emitting elements that emit three colors: R, G, and B, respectively. The transmittance of the first sub-light-transmitting part 510, the second sub-light-transmitting part 520, and the third sub-light-transmitting part 530 is different, so the film thickness of the RGB pixel area can be adjusted separately, thereby realizing the adjustment of optical hue.

[0066] The above-described display panel control method of this application firstly forms a first electrode layer, a pixel defining layer, a light-emitting layer, a light-shielding layer, a reflection control layer, and an optical adjustment layer sequentially on a substrate. The light-shielding layer includes multiple second openings and light-shielding portions. Then, a halftone mask is used to expose the reflection control layer. The halftone mask includes a first light-transmitting portion and a second light-transmitting portion. The transmittance of the first light-transmitting portion is different from that of the second light-transmitting portion. The orthographic projection of the first light-transmitting portion on the substrate coincides with the area of ​​the first part of the reflection control layer to be formed, and the orthographic projection of the second light-transmitting portion on the substrate coincides with the area of ​​the second part of the reflection control layer to be formed. Alternatively, the thickness of the light-shielding layer is controlled to be 2-3 μm. The light-shielding layer is exposed and developed to form light-shielding portions. The reflection control layer is directly coated on the light-shielding portions, so that the second part of the reflection control layer has a structure that protrudes from the first part. The aforementioned control method for the display panel sets the light-shielding part as a raised structure and increases the thickness of the light-shielding part. The reflection control layer is prepared by using a mask or by direct coating. During the preparation process, the reflection control layer is directly prepared into a raised shape, and the raised part is used as a low refractive index layer. This can save a process for making a low refractive index layer, reduce the process, and solve the problem that the existing organic light-emitting display device has a relatively complex process and poor light efficiency.

[0067] There are three advantages to using HT Mask to form a reflection control layer: 1. Reduced process, saving one MLP low-refractive-index layer; 2. HTM process can reduce the taper of the MLP low-refractive-index layer surface, which can improve light efficiency; 3. HTM process can adjust the film thickness of RGB pixel areas separately, which can achieve optical hue adjustment.

[0068] like Figure 6 As shown, a first transistor TR1, a second transistor TR2, a third transistor TR3, and an insulating layer 90 are also formed on the substrate 10. A first electrode layer 21, a pixel defining layer 30, a light-emitting layer 22, a common electrode 23, a cover layer 100, an encapsulation layer 70, and a touch sensing layer 80 are sequentially formed on the insulating layer 90. The touch sensing layer 80 includes a protective layer 81, a second touch insulating layer 82, a first touch insulating layer 83, a first touch electrode 84, and a second touch electrode 85. A light-shielding portion 40, a reflection control layer 50, and an optical adjustment layer 60 are also sequentially formed on the touch sensing layer 80.

[0069] In some examples, a first electrode layer, a pixel defining layer, a light-emitting layer, a light-shielding layer, a reflection control layer, and an optical adjustment layer are sequentially formed on a substrate, including: forming a first electrode layer on one side of the substrate; forming a preliminary pixel defining layer on the side of the first electrode layer away from the substrate; patterning the preliminary pixel defining layer to obtain a plurality of first openings to obtain the pixel defining layer; and forming a light-emitting layer on the side of the first opening away from the substrate.

[0070] Among them, such as Figure 6 As shown, the pixel defining layer 30 may be disposed on the insulating layer 90 and the first pixel electrode, the second pixel electrode, and the third pixel electrode. The pixel defining layer 30 may overlap with the non-light-emitting area. The pixel defining layer 30 may cover one side (e.g., both sides) of each of the first pixel electrode, the second pixel electrode, and the third pixel electrode, and may expose at least a portion of the upper surface of each of the first pixel electrode, the second pixel electrode, and the third pixel electrode. The pixel defining layer 30 may include organic materials and / or inorganic materials. In an embodiment, the pixel defining layer 30 may include organic materials. For example, the pixel defining layer 30 may include at least one of photoresist, polyacrylic resin, polyimide resin, polyamide resin, silicone resin, acrylic resin, epoxy resin, etc. These may be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0071] In some examples, a first electrode layer, a pixel defining layer, a light-emitting layer, a light-shielding layer, a reflection control layer, and an optical adjustment layer are sequentially formed on a substrate, including: forming a light-shielding layer on the side of the light-emitting layer away from the substrate; etching the light-shielding layer to obtain a plurality of second openings, wherein the orthographic projection of the second openings on the substrate at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the first opening of the pixel defining layer on the substrate, and a light-shielding portion is formed between two adjacent second openings.

[0072] Increasing the thickness of the light-shielding part allows the reflection control layer to be directly fabricated into a raised shape during the manufacturing process, and the raised part is used as a low refractive index layer. This can save a process for making a low refractive index layer, reduce the manufacturing process, and solve the problems of complex manufacturing process and poor light efficiency of existing organic light-emitting display devices.

[0073] In some examples, a first electrode layer, a pixel defining layer, a light-emitting layer, a light-shielding layer, a reflection control layer, and an optical adjustment layer are sequentially formed on a substrate, including: forming a preliminary optical adjustment layer on a layer of the reflection control layer facing away from the substrate; and removing a portion of the preliminary optical adjustment layer covering the light-shielding portion of the light-shielding layer to obtain the optical adjustment layer.

[0074] The optical adjustment layer can have a relatively high refractive index. For visible light, the refractive index of the optical adjustment layer can be greater than that of the reflection control layer. Due to the difference in refractive index between the first portion defined in the reflection control layer and the optical adjustment layer and the reflection control layer, the first portion of the reflection control layer can perform a lens function. For example, among the light emitted from the first light-emitting element, the second light-emitting element, and the third light-emitting element, the light incident on the first portion of the reflection control layer can be emitted to the outside of the display panel in a direction perpendicular to the substrate. Accordingly, the light efficiency of the display panel can be improved.

[0075] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a display device, such as... Figure 11 As shown, a display panel 400 includes any one of the items.

[0076] The aforementioned display device of this application includes a display panel in which a light-shielding portion is configured as a raised structure and the thickness of the light-shielding portion is increased. A reflection control layer is prepared by using a mask or by direct coating. During the preparation process, the reflection control layer is directly prepared into a raised shape and the raised portion is used as a low refractive index layer. This can save a process for preparing a low refractive index layer, reduce the manufacturing process, and solve the problems of complex manufacturing process and poor light efficiency of existing organic light-emitting display devices.

[0077] It should also be noted that the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Unless otherwise specified, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0078] As can be seen from the above description, the embodiments of this application achieve the following technical effects:

[0079] 1) The reflection control layer of the display panel described in this application includes a first part and a second part. The first part at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the light-emitting layer on the substrate, and the second part at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the light-shielding part on the substrate. The first part has opposing first and second surfaces in the thickness direction of the display panel, with the first surface located on the side of the second surface away from the substrate. Both the first and second surfaces are parallel to the substrate. The second part has opposing third and fourth surfaces in the thickness direction of the display panel, with the third surface located on the side of the fourth surface away from the substrate. The distance between the first surface and the first electrode layer is a first distance, and the distance between the third surface and the first electrode layer is a second distance, where the first distance is less than the second distance. That is, the display panel sets the light-shielding part as a raised structure and increases the thickness of the light-shielding part, so that during the manufacturing process, the reflection control layer is directly fabricated into a raised shape, and the raised part is used as a low-refractive-index layer. This saves one process for fabricating the low-refractive-index layer, reduces the manufacturing process, and solves the problems of complex manufacturing processes and poor light efficiency in existing organic light-emitting display devices.

[0080] 2) The above-mentioned display panel control method of this application firstly forms a first electrode layer, a pixel defining layer, a light-emitting layer, a light-shielding layer, a reflection control layer, and an optical adjustment layer sequentially on a substrate. The light-shielding layer includes multiple second openings and light-shielding portions. Then, a halftone mask is used to expose the reflection control layer. The halftone mask includes a first light-transmitting portion and a second light-transmitting portion. The transmittance of the first light-transmitting portion is different from that of the second light-transmitting portion. The orthographic projection of the first light-transmitting portion on the substrate coincides with the area of ​​the first part of the reflection control layer to be formed, and the orthographic projection of the second light-transmitting portion on the substrate coincides with the area of ​​the second part of the reflection control layer to be formed. Alternatively, the thickness of the light-shielding layer is controlled to be 2-3 μm. The light-shielding layer is exposed and developed to form a light-shielding portion. The reflection control layer is directly coated on the light-shielding portion, so that the second part of the reflection control layer is a structure that protrudes from the first part. The aforementioned control method for the display panel sets the light-shielding part as a raised structure and increases the thickness of the light-shielding part. The reflection control layer is prepared by using a mask or by direct coating. During the preparation process, the reflection control layer is directly prepared into a raised shape, and the raised part is used as a low refractive index layer. This can save a process for making a low refractive index layer, reduce the process, and solve the problem that the existing organic light-emitting display device has a relatively complex process and poor light efficiency.

[0081] 3) The above-mentioned display device of this application includes a display panel, in which the light-shielding part is set as a raised structure and the thickness of the light-shielding part is increased. The reflection control layer is prepared by means of a mask or direct coating. In the preparation process, the reflection control layer is directly prepared into a raised shape and the raised part is used as a low refractive index layer. This can save a process of making a low refractive index layer, reduce the process, and solve the problem that the existing organic light-emitting display device has a complicated process and poor light efficiency.

[0082] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A display panel, characterized in that, include: Substrate; The first electrode layer is located on one side of the substrate; A pixel defining layer is located on the side of the first electrode layer opposite to the substrate, and the pixel defining layer includes a plurality of first openings; The light-emitting layer is at least partially located within the first opening; A light-shielding layer is located on the side of the light-emitting layer away from the substrate. The light-shielding layer includes a plurality of second openings and light-shielding portions. The orthographic projection of the first opening on the substrate and the orthographic projection of the second opening on the substrate at least partially overlap. The light-shielding portion is provided between two adjacent second openings. A reflection control layer is located on the side of the light-shielding layer opposite to the substrate. The reflection control layer includes a first part and a second part. The first part at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the light-emitting layer on the substrate, and the second part at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the light-shielding portion on the substrate. An optical adjustment layer is located on the side of the reflection control layer opposite to the substrate; The first portion has opposing first and second surfaces in the thickness direction of the display panel, the first surface being located on the side of the second surface away from the substrate, and both the first and second surfaces being parallel to the substrate; the second portion has opposing third and fourth surfaces in the thickness direction of the display panel, the third surface being located on the side of the fourth surface away from the substrate; The distance between the first surface and the first electrode layer is a first distance, and the distance between the third surface and the first electrode layer is a second distance, wherein the first distance is less than the second distance; The refractive index of the reflection control layer is less than the refractive index of the optical adjustment layer; When the light absorbed by the reflection control layer is light of the first wavelength band, the thickness of the reflection control layer is a first thickness; when the light absorbed by the reflection control layer is light of the second wavelength band, the thickness of the reflection control layer is a second thickness. The wavelength of the first wavelength band light is less than the wavelength of the second wavelength band light, and the first thickness is less than the second thickness.

2. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The shape of the cross-section of the light-shielding part in the predetermined direction is one of rectangle, triangle, trapezoid, or arc, and the predetermined direction is the thickness direction of the display panel.

3. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thickness of the light-shielding layer is 2μm~3μm.

4. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The refractive index of the reflection control layer is 1.1~1.

5.

5. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The reflection control layer further includes a transition surface that connects the adjacent first surface and the third surface. The maximum angle between the cross section of the transition surface and the substrate is α, and 65°≤α≤85°.

6. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The reflection control layer absorbs light from at least three wavelength bands selected from a first wavelength band of 430 nm or less, a second wavelength band of 480 nm to 510 nm, a third wavelength band of 575 nm to 605 nm, and a fourth wavelength band of 650 nm or greater.

7. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The display panel also includes: An encapsulation layer is located on the side of the light-emitting layer that faces away from the substrate; A touch sensing layer is located between the encapsulation layer and the light-shielding layer.

8. A method for manufacturing a display panel according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The method includes: Provide substrate; A first electrode layer, a pixel defining layer, a light-emitting layer, a light-shielding layer, a reflection control layer, and an optical adjustment layer are sequentially formed on the substrate. The light-shielding layer includes a plurality of second openings and light-shielding portions, with the light-shielding portions provided between two adjacent second openings. In this process, a halftone mask is used to expose the reflection control layer to be formed. The halftone mask includes a first light-transmitting part and a second light-transmitting part. The transmittance of the first light-transmitting part is different from that of the second light-transmitting part. The orthographic projection of the first light-transmitting part on the substrate coincides with the area of ​​the first part of the reflection control layer to be formed, and the orthographic projection of the second light-transmitting part on the substrate coincides with the area of ​​the second part of the reflection control layer to be formed. Alternatively, the thickness of the light-shielding layer is controlled to be 2~3 μm. The light-shielding layer is exposed and developed to form the light-shielding part. The reflection control layer is directly coated on the light-shielding part, so that the second part of the reflection control layer is a structure that protrudes from the first part.

9. The method for manufacturing a display panel according to claim 8, characterized in that, A first electrode layer, a pixel defining layer, a light-emitting layer, a light-shielding layer, a reflection control layer, and an optical adjustment layer are sequentially formed on the substrate, including: The first electrode layer is formed on one side of the substrate; A pre-pixel defining layer is formed on the side of the first electrode layer opposite to the substrate; The pre-pixel defining layer is patterned to obtain a plurality of first openings, thereby obtaining the pixel defining layer; The light-emitting layer is formed on the side of the first opening away from the substrate.

10. The method for manufacturing a display panel according to claim 8, characterized in that, A first electrode layer, a pixel defining layer, a light-emitting layer, a light-shielding layer, a reflection control layer, and an optical adjustment layer are sequentially formed on the substrate, including: A light-shielding layer is formed on the side of the light-emitting layer that is away from the substrate; The light-shielding layer is etched to obtain a plurality of second openings. The orthographic projection of the second opening on the substrate at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the first opening of the pixel defining layer on the substrate, and a light-shielding portion is formed between two adjacent second openings.

11. The method for manufacturing a display panel according to claim 8, characterized in that, A first electrode layer, a pixel defining layer, a light-emitting layer, a light-shielding layer, a reflection control layer, and an optical adjustment layer are sequentially formed on the substrate, including: A preliminary optical adjustment layer is formed on a layer of the reflection control layer that faces away from the substrate; The portion of the pre-optical adjustment layer covering the light-shielding part of the light-shielding layer is removed to obtain the optical adjustment layer.

12. A display device, characterized in that, Includes the display panel as described in any one of claims 1 to 7.

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