Display panel and display device

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a display panel and a display device. The display panel comprises a substrate, an auxiliary electrode located on the substrate, the auxiliary electrode enclosing a first opening, and a light emitting device, at least part of the light emitting device being arranged in the first opening, the light emitting device comprising a first electrode and a second electrode stacked, the first electrode being located between the second electrode and the substrate, the first electrode and the auxiliary electrode being arranged in a spaced manner, and the second electrode and the auxiliary electrode being overlapped, so as to solve the problem of low light transmittance of the display area of the display panel in the related art.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of display technology, specifically to a display panel and display device. Background Technology

[0002] Organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) and flat panel displays based on light-emitting diode (LED) technologies are widely used in various consumer electronics products such as mobile phones, televisions, laptops, and desktop computers due to their advantages such as high image quality, energy saving, thin body, and wide application range, becoming the mainstream display panel. In the traditional display panel manufacturing process, a fine mask (FMM) is typically used to pattern the light-emitting pixels. FMM technology is mature and has extensive mass production experience. However, FMM technology also has problems such as limited precision, high development costs, and long development cycles. Maskless technology eliminates the limitations of traditional OLED processes on display size, resolution, and other screen performance aspects, offering advantages such as high performance, full-size display, and agile delivery. Patents CN118251982A, CN115666161A, CN116648095A, CN117062489A, CN118678742A, CN118785761A, CN115224220A, CN118678729A, CN118660529A, and CN118660589A describe relevant content regarding the technology of eliminating fine metal masks, and are provided for reference.

[0003] However, there are still some problems with the display panel that need to be addressed. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the present disclosure provides a display panel and a display device to solve the problem of low light transmittance of the display area in the related art.

[0005] The first aspect of this disclosure provides a display panel, comprising: a substrate; an auxiliary electrode located on the substrate, the auxiliary electrode forming a first opening; and a light-emitting device, at least a portion of which is disposed within the first opening, the light-emitting device including a first electrode and a second electrode stacked thereon, the first electrode being located between the second electrode and the substrate, the first electrode and the auxiliary electrode being spaced apart, and the second electrode and the auxiliary electrode being overlapped.

[0006] In some embodiments, the auxiliary electrode comprises a light-transmitting and conductive material; alternatively, the material of the auxiliary electrode comprises indium tin oxide.

[0007] In some embodiments, the display panel further includes a pixel definition layer located on the side of the auxiliary electrode away from the substrate. The pixel definition layer includes a pixel definition portion, which encloses a second opening to expose the light-emitting device and a portion of the auxiliary electrode. Optionally, the pixel definition portion is made of an organic insulating material. Optionally, the pixel definition portion is made of an organic adhesive.

[0008] In some embodiments, the pixel definition section includes a first surface and a second surface disposed opposite to each other. The first surface is located between the auxiliary electrode and the second surface. The orthographic projection of the first surface on the substrate is spaced apart from the orthographic projection of the first electrode on the substrate. The orthographic projection of the second surface on the substrate is located within the range of the orthographic projection of the first surface on the substrate.

[0009] In some embodiments, the display panel further includes: a pixel defining layer located on the side of the auxiliary electrode away from the substrate; and a partition structure located on the side of the pixel defining layer away from the substrate. The pixel defining layer includes a pixel defining portion, and the orthographic projection of the side of the pixel defining portion away from the substrate onto the substrate falls within the orthographic projection range of the partition structure onto the substrate. Optionally, the light transmittance of the partition structure is greater than the light transmittance of the pixel defining layer. Optionally, the material of the partition structure includes a light-transmitting material. Optionally, the material of the partition structure includes an inorganic material. Optionally, the material of the partition structure includes an inorganic insulating material. Optionally, a light-transmitting region is provided between adjacent light-emitting devices, and in the light-transmitting region, the auxiliary electrode, the pixel defining layer, and the partition structure are sequentially stacked along the direction away from the substrate. Optionally, the display panel further includes a plurality of spaced-apart encapsulation portions, the encapsulation portions being located on the side of the corresponding light-emitting device away from the substrate; Optionally, the display panel further includes a first encapsulation layer, located on the side of the encapsulation portion away from the substrate; Optionally, the display panel further includes a second encapsulation layer, located on the side of the first encapsulation layer away from the substrate; Optionally, the encapsulation portion includes an inorganic material, the first encapsulation layer includes an organic material, and the second encapsulation layer includes an inorganic material; Optionally, the partition structure includes a first surface and a second surface disposed opposite to each other, the first surface being in contact with the pixel definition layer, the orthographic projection of the second surface on the substrate being within the orthographic projection range of the first surface on the substrate, and the orthographic projection of the pixel definition layer on the substrate being within the orthographic projection range of the first surface on the substrate.

[0010] In some embodiments, the auxiliary electrode surrounds to form a third opening, and the orthographic projection of the third opening on the substrate is located outside the orthographic projection of the first electrode on the substrate; optionally, the display panel further includes an organic layer located between the auxiliary electrode and the substrate, and between the first electrode and the substrate; the orthographic projection of the third opening on the substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of the organic layer on the substrate; optionally, the display panel further includes a pixel definition layer, and the orthographic projection of the third opening on the substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of the pixel definition layer on the substrate; the third opening and the first opening are spaced apart; optionally, the display panel includes a display area, the third opening is located in the display area, and the orthographic projection of the third opening on the substrate is located between the orthographic projections of adjacent light-emitting devices on the substrate; optionally, at least a portion of the surface of the first electrode near the substrate is flush with at least a portion of the surface of the auxiliary electrode near the substrate.

[0011] In some embodiments, the light-emitting device further includes a light-emitting layer located between the first electrode and the second electrode; optionally, the light-emitting layer is spaced apart from the auxiliary electrode; optionally, the second electrode is the cathode of the light-emitting device.

[0012] In some embodiments, there is a gap between the first electrode and the auxiliary electrode, and the second electrode covers the light-emitting layer and part of the auxiliary electrode, and fills the gap; optionally, the transmittance of the auxiliary electrode is greater than the transmittance of the second electrode, and the transmittance of the second electrode is greater than the transmittance of the first electrode.

[0013] In some embodiments, the auxiliary electrode is in the form of a mesh, and the mesh openings include a first opening; optionally, there are multiple light-emitting devices, and the light-emitting devices correspond to the first openings; optionally, the multiple first openings are arranged in an array.

[0014] The second aspect of this disclosure provides a display device, including an optical sensor and a display panel provided in the first aspect; the optical sensor is located on the side of the display panel away from the light-emitting side, and the orthographic projection of the optical sensor on the substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of the auxiliary electrode on the substrate.

[0015] In the display panel and display device provided in this disclosure, the auxiliary electrode overlaps with the second electrode; simultaneously, the auxiliary electrode and the first electrode are spaced apart, and different electrical signals are transmitted between them. The auxiliary electrode achieves the function of transmitting electrical signals through the undercut structure in related technologies, ensuring the normal operation of the light-emitting device while avoiding the overlapping design of the undercut structure and the first electrode. This realizes a non-metallic opening in the display panel, improves the light transmittance of the display area of ​​the display panel, and meets the light transmittance requirements of the optical sensor. Attached Figure Description

[0016] The above and other objects, features, and advantages of this disclosure will become more apparent from the more detailed description of the embodiments thereof in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The drawings are provided to further illustrate the embodiments of this disclosure and form part of the specification. They are used together with the embodiments of this disclosure to explain the disclosure and do not constitute a limitation thereof. In the drawings, the same reference numerals generally represent the same parts or structures.

[0017] Figure 1 The diagram shown is a cross-sectional view of a display panel in the related technology.

[0018] Figure 2 The diagram shown is a top view of a display panel provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0019] Figure 3 As shown Figure 2 The illustrated embodiment provides a cross-sectional view of the display panel in region B.

[0020] Figure 4 The diagram shown is a cross-sectional view of a display panel provided in another embodiment of this disclosure.

[0021] Figure 5 The diagram shown is a cross-sectional view of a display panel provided in another embodiment of this disclosure.

[0022] Figure 6 As shown Figure 4 The illustrated embodiment provides an enlarged schematic diagram of the display panel in region C.

[0023] Figure 7 As shown Figure 3 The above-view schematic diagram shows a portion of the film layer in the display panel provided in the embodiment.

[0024] Figure 8 The diagram shown is a cross-sectional view of a display panel provided in another embodiment of this disclosure.

[0025] Figure 9 The diagram shown is a cross-sectional view of a display panel provided in another embodiment of this disclosure.

[0026] Figure 10 As shown Figure 8 The above-view schematic diagram shows a portion of the film layer in the display panel provided in the embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this specification will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this specification, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this specification, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this specification.

[0028] In the description of this disclosure, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship commonly used when the product of the invention is in use. They are used only for the convenience of describing this disclosure and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this disclosure. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., are used only to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0029] Figure 1 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of a display panel in related technologies. Figure 1 As shown, in the display area of ​​the display panel, the display panel includes a substrate and multiple light-emitting devices located on one side of the substrate. During the fabrication of the light-emitting devices, a first electrode 120 and a pixel definition layer 130 are first fabricated on one side of the substrate 110, and an undercut structure 140 is fabricated on top of them. Finally, a light-emitting layer, a second electrode, and other film layer structures are fabricated within the opening formed by the pixel definition layer 130 and the undercut structure 140, and patterned using photolithography to fabricate the light-emitting devices. The undercut structure 140 is typically made of a metal material, such as aluminum (Al) or titanium (Ti), to transmit electrical signals (e.g., ELVSS). However, the first electrode 120 is usually made of a metal material with low light transmittance. The overlapping design of the undercut structure 140 and the first electrode 120 results in low overall light transmittance of the display area, making it difficult for external light to pass through the display panel to reach the optical sensor below, rendering the optical sensor unusable.

[0030] In view of the above, this disclosure provides a display panel, including: a substrate; an auxiliary electrode located on the substrate, the auxiliary electrode forming a first opening; and a light-emitting device, at least a portion of which is disposed within the first opening, the light-emitting device including a first electrode and a second electrode stacked thereon, the first electrode being located between the second electrode and the substrate, the first electrode and the auxiliary electrode being spaced apart, and the second electrode and the auxiliary electrode being overlapped.

[0031] The above design avoids the overlap between the undercut structure and the first electrode, ensuring the non-metallic opening of the display panel while realizing the light-emitting device, thus improving the light transmittance and meeting the light transmittance requirements of the optical sensor.

[0032] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this disclosure, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this disclosure, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0033] Figure 2 The image shown is a top view of a display panel provided according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 2 As shown, the display panel includes a display area AA and a non-display area NA. The display area AA contains multiple light-emitting devices for displaying images. The non-display area NA may be located on at least one side of the display area AA.

[0034] Figure 3 As shown Figure 2 The illustrated embodiment provides a schematic diagram of the display panel's structure in area B. (See diagram for reference.) Figure 3 As shown, the display panel includes a substrate 310, an auxiliary electrode 320, and a light-emitting device 330. The auxiliary electrode 320 is located on the substrate 310 and forms a first opening 321. The first opening 321 exposes a portion of the substrate 310, and at least a portion of the light-emitting device 330 is disposed within the first opening 321.

[0035] The substrate 310 can be a flexible substrate or a rigid substrate. Correspondingly, the display panel in this embodiment can be a bendable flexible display panel or a non-bendable rigid display panel. Exemplarily, the substrate 310 includes a substrate and a driving circuit layer located on the substrate. The driving circuit layer includes multiple pixel driving circuits. For example, the pixel driving circuit may include multiple transistors (TFTs), capacitors, etc. The pixel driving circuit is connected to the light-emitting device 330 to control the switching state and brightness of the light-emitting device 330. Furthermore, the substrate 310 may also include layers such as a buffer layer, an insulating layer, a planarization layer, etc., which are not specifically limited in this disclosure.

[0036] The light-emitting device 330 includes a first electrode 331 and a second electrode 332 stacked together, with the first electrode 331 located between the second electrode 332 and the substrate 310. The first electrode 331 is disposed in a first opening 321, which exposes the side of the first electrode 331 away from the substrate 310, and the second electrode 332 is located on the side of the first electrode 331 away from the substrate 310.

[0037] The first electrode 331 and the auxiliary electrode 320 are spaced apart and do not overlap. The first electrode 331 and the auxiliary electrode 320 transmit different electrical signals respectively. The second electrode 332 overlaps (i.e., is electrically connected or makes electrical contact) with the auxiliary electrode 320 to achieve an electrical connection between them. For example, at least a portion of the first electrode 331 and the auxiliary electrode 320 may be disposed in the same layer. For example, a light-transmitting area may be provided between adjacent light-emitting devices 330, and at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode 320 may be located within the light-transmitting area.

[0038] In this embodiment, the auxiliary electrode overlaps with the second electrode; simultaneously, the auxiliary electrode and the first electrode are spaced apart, transmitting different electrical signals between them. The auxiliary electrode achieves the function of transmitting electrical signals using the undercut structure in related technologies. While ensuring the normal operation of the light-emitting device, it avoids the overlapping design of the undercut structure and the first electrode, realizing a non-metallic opening in the display panel, improving the light transmittance of the display area of ​​the display panel, and meeting the light transmittance requirements of the optical sensor.

[0039] In some embodiments, the auxiliary electrode 320 comprises a light-transmitting conductive material, that is, the auxiliary electrode 320 is made of a conductive material with high light transmittance. The auxiliary electrode 320 is disposed around the first electrode 331. Figure 3 In the cross-section shown, the auxiliary electrode 320 and the first electrode 331 are arranged alternately and at intervals along a direction parallel to the display panel. By setting the auxiliary electrode 320 as a transparent electrode with high light transmittance, external light can easily pass through the transparent electrode to the display panel, increasing the area of ​​the light-transmitting region without affecting the display performance.

[0040] For example, the auxiliary electrode 320 is made of indium tin oxide (ITO). Indium tin oxide is a stable, highly conductive, and transparent material with a transmittance of nearly 90% in the visible light range.

[0041] Continue to refer to Figure 3 The display panel also includes a pixel definition layer. The pixel definition layer is located on the side of the auxiliary electrode 320 away from the substrate 310. The pixel definition layer includes a pixel definition section 341. The pixel definition layer can define and limit the shape and size of pixels, ensuring isolation between pixels and preventing crosstalk.

[0042] For example, the pixel definition layer may include an insulating material. Optionally, the pixel definition portion 341 may be made of an organic insulating material. Exemplarily, the pixel definition portion 341 may be made of an organic adhesive. Organic adhesive materials are readily formed into structures that meet the thickness requirements of the pixel definition portion 341, and the manufacturing process is simple and easy to implement.

[0043] In other embodiments, the pixel definition section 341 may include an inorganic insulating material.

[0044] For example, a pixel definition layer may include a light-transmitting material.

[0045] For example, the pixel definition portion 341 encloses to form a second opening 341, which exposes the light-emitting device 330 and a portion of the auxiliary electrode 320. The second electrode 332 of the light-emitting device 330 contacts the auxiliary electrode 320 exposed by the second opening 341 to achieve an electrical connection.

[0046] For example, the orthographic projection of the first opening 321 onto the substrate 310 is within the orthographic projection range of the second opening 341 onto the substrate 310. This ensures the light-transmitting area of ​​the display panel while implementing the pixel definition layer function.

[0047] In some embodiments, the pixel defining portion 341 includes a first surface 342 and a second surface 343 disposed opposite to each other. The first surface 342 of the pixel defining portion 341 is located between the auxiliary electrode 320 and the second surface 343, and the orthographic projection of the first surface 342 on the substrate 310 is spaced apart from the orthographic projection of the first electrode 331 on the substrate 310. For example, the orthographic projection of the second surface 343 of the pixel defining portion 341 on the substrate 310 is located within the range of the orthographic projection of the first surface 342 on the substrate 310.

[0048] Continue to refer to Figure 3 The second electrode 332 of the light-emitting device 330 covers the portion of the auxiliary electrode 320 exposed by the second opening 341 and overlaps with the sidewall of the pixel definition portion 341. This arrangement makes the sidewall of the pixel definition portion 341 sloped. During the fabrication of the second electrode 332 within the second opening 341 of the pixel definition portion 341 using a vapor deposition method, the sloped sidewall of the pixel definition layer facilitates the evaporation material of the second electrode 332 climbing up the slope, improving structural stability and reducing the risk of breakage.

[0049] Figure 4 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of a display panel provided in another embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 4 As shown, the display panel also includes a partition structure 350. The partition structure 350 is located on the side of the pixel definition layer away from the substrate 310; more specifically, the partition structure 350 is stacked on the second surface of the pixel definition portion 341. The orthographic projection of the side of the pixel definition portion 341 away from the substrate 310 onto the substrate 310 lies within the orthographic projection range of the partition structure 350 onto the substrate 310. The pixel definition portion 341 and the partition structure 350 together form an undercut structure. For example, the cross-section perpendicular to the substrate obtained by splicing the pixel definition portion 341 and the partition structure 350 can be T-shaped or inverted trapezoidal. For example, the cross-section perpendicular to the substrate obtained by splicing the auxiliary electrode 320, the pixel definition portion 341, and the partition structure 350 can be I-shaped.

[0050] For example, the cross-section of the pixel definition section 341 perpendicular to the substrate can be an inverted trapezoid, a regular trapezoid, or a rectangle. For example, the orthogonal projection area of ​​the side of the pixel definition section 341 away from the substrate on the substrate is greater than, less than, or equal to the orthogonal projection area of ​​the side of the pixel definition section 341 close to the substrate on the substrate.

[0051] During the fabrication of the film layer within the second opening, the edge of the partition structure 350 can isolate the vapor-deposited film layer, ensuring that the film layer is completely located within the second opening. Thus, during the fabrication process, there is no need for alignment using a fine metal mask, and the forming position of the film layer can be precisely controlled, simplifying the fabrication process and improving efficiency.

[0052] Continue to refer to Figure 4 To achieve the blocking effect of the partition structure 350 on the vapor-deposited film layer, the edge of the partition structure 350 extends into the second opening. Viewed from a direction perpendicular to the substrate, the partition structure 350 shields at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode 320 and / or the substrate 310 exposed by the second opening. Therefore, the partition structure 350 can be fabricated using a material with high light transmittance, such that the light transmittance of the partition structure 350 is greater than that of the pixel definition portion 341, to avoid the partition structure 350 obstructing the light-transmitting area of ​​the display panel.

[0053] Optionally, the partition structure 350 may be made of a light-transmitting material. By using a light-transmitting material to fabricate the partition structure 350, external light can pass through the partition structure 350, ensuring the light-transmitting area of ​​the display panel.

[0054] For example, when both the partition structure 350 and the auxiliary electrode 320 are made of light-transmitting material, the light transmittance of the area outside the first electrode in the second opening can be guaranteed. While realizing the display function, the area of ​​the light-transmitting region can be increased as much as possible, thereby meeting the light transmittance requirements of the optical sensor.

[0055] Optionally, the partition structure 350 may be made of inorganic materials, such as silicon nitride or silicon oxide. The partition structure 350 and the pixel definition layer 340 are made of different materials, using inorganic and organic materials respectively, and employing different etching agents. This makes it easier to form an undercut structure and simplifies the fabrication process. Furthermore, these materials are insulating and dense, improving the reliability of the structure.

[0056] In other embodiments, the partition structure 350 may include a conductive material, such as a light-transmitting conductive material.

[0057] Optionally, the partition structure 350 may be made of inorganic insulating material to prevent leakage or short circuit faults and ensure the electrical safety and structural stability of the display panel.

[0058] For example, the auxiliary electrode 320 is made of indium tin oxide (ITO), the pixel definition layer 340 is made of an organic adhesive, and the partition structure 350 is made of an inorganic material. In the fabrication of the three-layer structure consisting of the auxiliary electrode 320, the pixel definition layer 340, and the partition structure 350, a stacked ITO layer, an organic adhesive layer, and a passivation layer are first fabricated on the substrate, and the three-layer structure is patterned to form an undercut structure. Simultaneously, the selected materials all possess good performance, facilitating the realization of non-metallic openings in the display panel to meet the light transmittance requirements of the optical sensor.

[0059] For example, the above patterning process can be a photolithography patterning process. In the photolithography process, a single photomask can be used to perform photolithography on the three-layer structure to simplify the process and improve the fabrication efficiency.

[0060] Continue to refer to Figure 4 The partition structure 350 includes a first surface 351 and a second surface 352 disposed opposite to each other. The first surface 351 of the partition structure 350 is in contact with the pixel definition layer 340, and the orthographic projection of the pixel definition layer 340 on the substrate is within the orthographic projection range of the first surface 351 on the substrate. The orthographic projection of the second surface 352 on the substrate is within the orthographic projection range of the first surface 351 on the substrate. With the above configuration, the sidewall of the partition structure 350 is sloped, and the portion of the sidewall near the first surface 351 and the edge formed by the first surface 351 extend into the second opening of the pixel definition layer 340. During the fabrication of the inner film layer structure of the second opening, a precise material evaporation angle can be achieved, and the partitioning effect of the partition structure can be improved.

[0061] In addition to the structures described above, an encapsulation structure can be further set above the light-emitting device to prevent water vapor, oxygen, and other substances from entering the light-emitting device and improve the lifespan of the display panel.

[0062] Figure 5 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of a display panel provided in another embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 5 As shown, in addition to the film layer structure described in the above embodiments, the display panel also includes a plurality of encapsulation portions 510. For example, the plurality of encapsulation portions 510 are spaced apart, and the encapsulation portions 510 are located on the side of the corresponding light-emitting device away from the substrate. At least a portion of the encapsulation portion 510 extends from within the second opening formed by the pixel defining portion along the sidewall of the pixel defining portion to the surface of the partition structure away from the substrate (i.e., the second surface of the partition structure in the above embodiments). For example, different light-emitting devices of different colors correspond to different encapsulation portions 510.

[0063] Optionally, the display panel further includes a first encapsulation layer 520 located on the side of the encapsulation portion 510 away from the substrate. Optionally, the display panel further includes a second encapsulation layer 530 located on the side of the first encapsulation layer 520 away from the substrate. The encapsulation portion 510, the first encapsulation layer 520, and the second encapsulation layer 530 are stacked.

[0064] The encapsulation part 510, the first encapsulation layer 520, and the second encapsulation layer 530 can encapsulate the underlying film layer. Specifically, the encapsulation part 510 and the second encapsulation layer 530 have high density, which can prevent external water vapor, oxygen, etc. from invading the underlying film layer. The first encapsulation layer 520 has a large thickness, which can flatten the surface of the display panel, so as to facilitate the setting of structures such as touch function structures, optical films, and cover plates on the light-emitting side of the display panel.

[0065] Optionally, the encapsulation portion 510 includes inorganic materials, and / or the first encapsulation layer 520 includes organic materials, and / or the second encapsulation layer 530 includes inorganic materials. Together, these three layers form an inorganic / organic / inorganic three-layer encapsulation structure. This structure provides extremely high barrier properties against gases such as water vapor and oxygen, thus effectively protecting the covered light-emitting devices and other structures, further improving the lifespan of the display panel. Exemplarily, the encapsulation portion 510 and the second encapsulation layer 530 can be formed by chemical vapor deposition (CVD), and the first encapsulation layer 520 can be formed by inkjet printing.

[0066] The specific structure of the light-emitting device will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0067] Figure 6 As shown Figure 4 The illustrated embodiment provides an enlarged schematic diagram of the display panel in region C. (See diagram below.) Figure 6 As shown, the light-emitting device 330 also includes a light-emitting layer 333. The light-emitting layer 333 is located between the first electrode 331 and the second electrode 332.

[0068] The light-emitting layer 333 may include a material with electroluminescence (EL) properties. The first electrode 331 and the second electrode 332 are the anode and cathode of the light-emitting device 330, respectively. Exemplarily, the first electrode 331 is configured as the anode, and correspondingly, the second electrode 332 is configured as the cathode. Alternatively, the first electrode 331 is configured as the cathode, and correspondingly, the second electrode 332 is configured as the anode; this disclosure does not specifically limit this. When a voltage is applied to the first electrode 331 and the second electrode 332, the light-emitting layer 333 emits light to achieve a display function. Specifically, the anode can provide holes to the light-emitting layer 333, and the cathode can provide electrons to the light-emitting layer 333. The holes provided by the anode and the electrons provided by the cathode recombine in the light-emitting layer 333, exciting the light-emitting material of the light-emitting layer to emit light.

[0069] For example, the first electrode 331 is the anode of the light-emitting device 330, the second electrode 332 is the cathode of the light-emitting device 330, and the auxiliary electrode 320, which is electrically connected to the second electrode 332, is configured to transmit a negative power supply signal (ELVSS). In this case, the auxiliary electrode 320 can serve as an auxiliary cathode of the light-emitting device 330. The auxiliary electrode 320 and the second electrode 332 jointly transmit the power supply signal ELVSS.

[0070] Optional, such as Figure 6 As shown, the light-emitting layer 333 and the auxiliary electrode 320 are spaced apart to reduce the lateral leakage current between adjacent light-emitting devices.

[0071] Compared to Figure 1 In the related technologies shown, the display panel of this disclosure transmits power signals to the light-emitting device through an auxiliary electrode, replacing part of the function of the undercut structure in the related technologies. Therefore, the partial film layer structure of the display panel can be appropriately adjusted to form a light-transmitting area F.

[0072] For example, in the light-transmitting area F, the auxiliary electrode 320, the pixel definition layer, and the partition structure 350 are stacked sequentially in a direction away from the substrate.

[0073] Continue to refer to Figure 6 The second electrode 332 covers the light-emitting layer 333 and a portion of the auxiliary electrode 320, and is electrically connected to the auxiliary electrode 320 through the overlap between the second electrode 332 and the auxiliary electrode 320. A gap exists between the first electrode 331 and the auxiliary electrode 320, and the second electrode 332 fills and / or covers the gap. Optionally, the transmittance of the auxiliary electrode is greater than that of the second electrode, and the transmittance of the second electrode is greater than that of the first electrode.

[0074] The first electrode 331 and the auxiliary electrode 320 are spaced apart to ensure the correct flow of current in the light-emitting device and avoid short circuits or other electrical problems. The second electrode 332 fills the spaced area, which can reduce the impact of mechanical stress on the light-emitting device, reduce the risk of breakage of the second electrode 332, and improve the stability of the overall structure.

[0075] Within the second opening formed by the pixel definition section, the second electrode 332 completely covers the underlying film layer and overlaps with the sidewall of the pixel definition layer. Therefore, the second electrode 332 can also provide some protection for the underlying film layer.

[0076] In addition to the film structures described in the above embodiments, the light-emitting device may also include a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, an electron blocking layer, or other structures such as an electron injection layer, an electron transport layer, and a hole blocking layer. The specific design can be tailored to actual needs, and this disclosure does not impose any specific limitations. The hole injection layer and hole transport layer can be made of materials with high hole mobility, thereby enabling holes generated at the anode to be better transported to the light-emitting layer. Similarly, the electron injection layer and electron transport layer can be made of materials with high electron mobility, thereby enabling electrons generated at the cathode to be better transported to the light-emitting layer.

[0077] In addition to the film layer structures described in the above embodiments, the display panel may also include other film layer structures, which can be designed according to actual needs, and this disclosure does not impose specific limitations on them.

[0078] Figure 7 As shown Figure 3 The illustrated embodiment provides a top view of a portion of the film layers in the display panel. (See diagram below.) Figure 7 As shown, the auxiliary electrode 320 is located in the display area of ​​the display panel. The auxiliary electrode 320 forms multiple first openings, making the overall planar shape of the auxiliary electrode 320 a mesh structure, with the mesh holes including the first openings. There are multiple light-emitting devices 330, and each light-emitting device 330 corresponds to a first opening (e.g., one-to-one). Each light-emitting device 330 is disposed within its corresponding first opening. The second electrode of each light-emitting device 330 overlaps with the mesh-like auxiliary electrode 320 to form a planar common electrode. This arrangement ensures that the edges of adjacent first openings share a common edge, reducing the gap between adjacent light-emitting devices 330, which helps to increase the pixel density (PPI) of the display area and improve the display performance of the display panel.

[0079] Understandable, Figure 7 The shape of the first opening shown is merely illustrative; the shape of the first opening or the light-emitting device can be designed according to actual needs. For example, the shape of the first opening may include regular shapes such as rectangles and circles, or it may be designed as other irregular shapes. Furthermore, the shapes of multiple first openings may be the same or partially different. In addition, the number of first openings in the auxiliary electrode can also be set according to actual needs; this disclosure does not impose specific limitations on the shape and number of the first openings. Based on the setting of the shape and number of the first openings, the arrangement of multiple first openings can also be designed accordingly. For example, multiple first openings are arranged in an array, the auxiliary electrode is in a mesh (i.e., grid-like) arrangement, and correspondingly, multiple light-emitting devices are arranged in an array.

[0080] Figure 8 The diagram shown is a cross-sectional view of a display panel provided in another embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 8As shown, in addition to the first opening described in the above embodiment, the auxiliary electrode 320 surrounds and forms a third opening 322. The orthographic projection of the third opening 322 on the substrate 310 is outside the orthographic projection of the first electrode 331 on the substrate 310. The orthographic projection of the third opening 322 on the substrate 310 does not overlap with the orthographic projection of the first electrode 331 on the substrate 310, that is, they are misaligned.

[0081] During the manufacturing process of the display panel, the film layer below the auxiliary electrode 320 releases water vapor during the medium-high temperature process. At this time, the water vapor released by the film layer below the auxiliary electrode 320 can be released through the third opening 322, which avoids bulging between the auxiliary electrode 320 and the film layer below, thereby preventing the auxiliary electrode 320 from peeling off from the film layer below and improving the structural stability of the display panel.

[0082] Optionally, the display panel further includes an organic layer 810, which is located between the auxiliary electrode 320 and the substrate 310. Since the first electrode 331 and the auxiliary electrode 320 are disposed in the same layer, the organic layer 810 is located between the first electrode 331 and the substrate 310. The orthographic projection of the third opening 322 on the substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of the organic layer 810 on the substrate 310, that is, water vapor released by the organic layer 810 during high-temperature processes can be released through the third opening 322. Exemplarily, the organic layer 810 can be a planarization layer. The organic layer 810 can be an organic insulating layer. For example, at least a portion of the surface of the first electrode 331 near the substrate and at least a portion of the surface of the auxiliary electrode 320 near the substrate are flush, which is equivalent to the first electrode 331 and the auxiliary electrode 320 being disposed in the same layer.

[0083] Optionally, the display panel also includes a pixel definition layer. The orthographic projection of the third opening 322 on the substrate 310 overlaps with the orthographic projection of the pixel definition layer on the substrate 310, and the third opening 322 and the first opening 321 are spaced apart. In this way, the first opening 321 and the third opening 322 are arranged alternately, so that water vapor released from the film layer below the auxiliary electrode 320 can be uniformly released through the first opening 321 and the third opening 322. Specifically, the pixel definition layer includes a pixel definition portion 341, and the orthographic projection of the third opening 322 on the substrate 310 is located within the orthographic projection of the pixel definition portion 341 on the substrate 310.

[0084] For example, the first opening 321 and the third opening 322 are arranged alternately along a first direction, and / or the first opening 321 and the third opening 322 are arranged alternately along a second direction. The first direction and the second direction intersect, for example, perpendicularly.

[0085] Figure 9 As shown Figure 8 The illustrated embodiment provides a top view of a portion of the film layers in the display panel. (See diagram below.) Figure 9As shown, the display panel includes a display area, and a third opening 322 is located within the display area. The orthographic projection of the third opening 322 onto the substrate lies between the orthographic projections of adjacent light-emitting devices 330 onto the substrate. The third opening 322 can be located in the light-transmitting area. By providing the third opening 322, the light transmittance of the light-transmitting area can be improved.

[0086] For example, multiple third openings 322 may be arranged in an array. For example, the size of the third opening 322 may be smaller than, greater than or equal to the size of the first opening 321. For example, a third opening 322 may be provided on at least one side (one side, two sides, three sides, or all four sides) of the same first opening 321.

[0087] Based on the same inventive concept, this disclosure also provides a display device, including the display panel provided in the above embodiments of this disclosure. It should be understood that the principle of solving the problem in the display device embodiments is similar to that in the above-described display panel embodiments. Therefore, the implementation of this embodiment can refer to the implementation of the above-described display panel embodiments, and repeated details will not be described again.

[0088] The display device may further include an optical sensor located on the side of the display panel opposite to the light-emitting side. The orthographic projection of the optical sensor onto the substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of the light-transmitting area and / or the auxiliary electrode onto the substrate. External light enters the optical sensor through the light-transmitting area of ​​the display panel and / or the auxiliary electrode to achieve functions such as under-display cameras, under-display optical fingerprint recognition, and automatic screen brightness adjustment. At least a portion of the auxiliary electrode is located within the light-transmitting area.

[0089] In embodiments of this disclosure, the display device may include devices with display functions such as mobile phones, tablets, smart wearable devices, televisions, laptops, and monitors. This disclosure does not impose specific limitations on the specific form of the display device.

[0090] Since the principle of solving the problem in the display device embodiment is similar to that in the above-described display panel embodiment, the implementation of the display device embodiment can refer to the implementation of the above-described display panel embodiment, and repeated details will not be described again.

[0091] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0092] Other embodiments of this disclosure will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. This disclosure is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this disclosure that follow the general principles of this disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display panel, characterized in that, include: substrate; An auxiliary electrode is located on the substrate, and the auxiliary electrode surrounds and forms a first opening; A light-emitting device, at least a portion of which is disposed within the first opening, the light-emitting device comprising a stacked first electrode and a second electrode, the first electrode being located between the second electrode and the substrate, the first electrode and the auxiliary electrode being spaced apart, and the second electrode and the auxiliary electrode being overlapped; the light-emitting device further comprising a light-emitting layer located between the first electrode and the second electrode; A pixel definition layer is located on the side of the auxiliary electrode away from the substrate. The pixel definition layer includes a pixel definition portion that encloses a second opening, which exposes the light-emitting device and a portion of the auxiliary electrode. The orthographic projection of the first electrode on the substrate is located within the orthographic projection of the second opening on the substrate. There is a gap between the first electrode and the auxiliary electrode. The orthographic projection of the gap between the first electrode and the auxiliary electrode on the substrate is located within the orthographic projection of the second opening on the substrate. The gap between the first electrode and the auxiliary electrode does not contain the pixel definition layer.

2. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The auxiliary electrode comprises a light-transmitting and conductive material.

3. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The auxiliary electrode is made of indium tin oxide.

4. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The material of the pixel definition section includes organic insulating materials.

5. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The material of the pixel definition section includes organic adhesive.

6. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pixel definition section includes a first surface and a second surface disposed opposite to each other. The first surface is located between the auxiliary electrode and the second surface. The orthographic projection of the first surface on the substrate is spaced apart from the orthographic projection of the first electrode on the substrate. The orthographic projection of the second surface on the substrate is located within the orthographic projection range of the first surface on the substrate.

7. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A partition structure is located on the side of the pixel definition layer away from the substrate. The pixel definition layer includes a pixel definition portion, and the orthographic projection of the side of the pixel definition portion away from the substrate onto the substrate is within the orthographic projection range of the partition structure onto the substrate.

8. The display panel according to claim 7, characterized in that, The light transmittance of the partition structure is greater than that of the pixel definition layer.

9. The display panel according to claim 7, characterized in that, The partition structure is made of light-transmitting materials.

10. The display panel according to claim 7, characterized in that, The partition structure is made of inorganic materials.

11. The display panel according to claim 7, characterized in that, The partition structure is made of inorganic insulating materials.

12. The display panel according to claim 7, characterized in that, A light-transmitting area is provided between adjacent light-emitting devices, and in the light-transmitting area, the auxiliary electrode, the pixel definition layer, and the partition structure are stacked sequentially in a direction away from the substrate.

13. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The display panel also includes a plurality of spaced-apart encapsulation portions, which are located on the side of the corresponding light-emitting device away from the substrate.

14. The display panel according to claim 13, characterized in that, The display panel further includes a first encapsulation layer located on the side of the encapsulation portion away from the substrate.

15. The display panel according to claim 14, characterized in that, The display panel further includes a second encapsulation layer located on the side of the first encapsulation layer away from the substrate.

16. The display panel according to claim 15, characterized in that, The encapsulation part includes inorganic materials, the first encapsulation layer includes organic materials, and the second encapsulation layer includes inorganic materials.

17. The display panel according to claim 7, characterized in that, The partition structure includes a first surface and a second surface disposed opposite to each other. The first surface is in contact with the pixel definition layer. The orthographic projection of the second surface on the substrate is located within the orthographic projection range of the first surface on the substrate. The orthographic projection of the pixel definition layer on the substrate is located within the orthographic projection range of the first surface on the substrate.

18. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The auxiliary electrode encloses to form a third opening, and the orthographic projection of the third opening on the substrate is located outside the orthographic projection of the first electrode on the substrate.

19. The display panel according to claim 18, characterized in that, The display panel further includes an organic layer located between the auxiliary electrode and the substrate, and between the first electrode and the substrate; the orthographic projection of the third opening on the substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of the organic layer on the substrate.

20. The display panel according to claim 18, characterized in that, The orthographic projection of the third opening on the substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of the pixel definition layer on the substrate; the third opening and the first opening are spaced apart.

21. The display panel according to claim 18, characterized in that, The display panel includes a display area, the third opening is located in the display area, and the orthographic projection of the third opening on the substrate is located between the orthographic projections of the adjacent light-emitting devices on the substrate.

22. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least a portion of the surface of the first electrode near the substrate is flush with at least a portion of the surface of the auxiliary electrode near the substrate.

23. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The light-emitting layer is spaced apart from the auxiliary electrode.

24. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second electrode is the cathode of the light-emitting device.

25. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second electrode covers the light-emitting layer and part of the auxiliary electrode, and fills the gap region.

26. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transmittance of the auxiliary electrode is greater than that of the second electrode, and the transmittance of the second electrode is greater than that of the first electrode.

27. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The auxiliary electrode is in the form of a mesh, and the mesh openings include the first opening.

28. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The number of light-emitting devices is multiple, and each light-emitting device corresponds to the first opening.

29. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, Multiple first openings are arranged in an array.

30. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The orthographic projection of the pixel definition part on the substrate is completely located inside the orthographic projection of the auxiliary electrode on the substrate.

31. The display panel according to claim 7, characterized in that, The fabrication process of the three-layer structure consisting of the auxiliary electrode, the pixel definition layer, and the partition structure includes: An ITO layer, an organic adhesive layer, and a passivation layer are stacked on the substrate, and a patterning process is performed to form an undercut structure.

32. The display panel according to claim 7, characterized in that, The cross-section perpendicular to the substrate obtained by splicing the auxiliary electrode, the pixel definition part, and the partition structure can be I-shaped.

33. The display panel according to claim 7, characterized in that, The pixel definition section and the partition structure together form an undercut structure.

34. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The light-emitting layer covers the first electrode and extends into the interval region.

35. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, There is no pixel definition layer between the light-emitting layer and the first electrode.

36. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The light-emitting layer is not in contact with the pixel definition layer.

37. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first electrode does not contact the pixel definition layer.

38. A display device, characterized in that, It includes an optical sensor and a display panel as described in any one of claims 1 to 37; the optical sensor is located on the side of the display panel away from the light-emitting side, and the orthographic projection of the optical sensor on the substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of the auxiliary electrode on the substrate.

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