Display device

Abstract

The invention provides a display device. The display device includes: a substrate; an insulating layer disposed above the substrate; a first lower electrode and a second lower electrode separated from each other and disposed on the insulating layer; a rib portion having a single pixel opening overlapping the first lower electrode and the second lower electrode; a partition wall including a conductive lower portion disposed above the rib, and an upper portion disposed above the lower portion and having an opening surrounded by an edge portion protruding from a side surface of the lower portion; an organic layer which passes through the pixel opening, is in contact with the first lower electrode and the second lower electrode, and has a light-emitting layer, and an upper electrode which covers the organic layer and is in contact with the lower part; and a lens that is formed in a convex shape that protrudes toward the opposite side from the substrate and overlaps the opening, and the organic layer passes through the pixel opening between the first lower electrode and the second lower electrode and is in contact with the insulating layer.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024 - 010168 filed on January 26, 2024, and incorporates by reference all the descriptions recited in the Japanese patent application. Technical Field

[0003] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a display device. Background Art

[0004] In recent display devices, there has been a demand for variable viewing angles to achieve a specified contrast ratio. For example, in a display device mounted on a vehicle such as an automobile, the following viewing angle control is pursued: it is possible to visually confirm the display image from the passenger seat side, while on the other hand, it is not possible to visually confirm the display image from the driver's seat side during driving or the like. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Generally according to an embodiment, a display device includes: a substrate; an insulating layer disposed above the substrate; a first lower electrode and a second lower electrode separated from each other, which are disposed on the insulating layer; a rib portion having a single pixel opening overlapping with the first lower electrode and the second lower electrode; a partition wall including a conductive lower portion disposed above the rib portion and an upper portion disposed above the lower portion and having an opening surrounded by an edge portion protruding from the side surface of the lower portion; an organic layer that passes through the pixel opening and contacts the first lower electrode and the second lower electrode, and has a light - emitting layer, covers the organic layer, and is in contact with the lower portion; and an upper electrode; a lens formed in a convex shape protruding in a direction opposite to the substrate and overlapping with the opening, and the organic layer contacts the insulating layer through the pixel opening between the first lower electrode and the second lower electrode.

[0006] According to an embodiment, a display device capable of restricting the viewing angle can be provided. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] Figure 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0008] Figure 2 is a circuit diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of a sub - pixel.

[0009] Figure 3 is a schematic top view showing an example of the layout of sub - pixels.

[0010] Figure 4 is a diagram showing Figure 3 a top view showing an example of the layout of the partition wall and the lens shown in

[0011] Figure 5 It is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of a display device along the Figure 4 A-A' line shown.

[0012] Figure 6 It is a diagram for explaining Figure 5 The function of the lens shown.

[0013] Figure 7 It is a diagram showing the state of an image displayed by a display device mounted on a vehicle-mounted device in the first mode.

[0014] Figure 8 It is a diagram showing the state of an image displayed by a display device mounted on a vehicle-mounted device in the second mode.

[0015] Figure 9 It is a schematic top view showing another example of the sub-pixel layout.

[0016] Figure 10 It is a diagram showing Figure 9 A top view showing an example of the layout of the partition walls and the lens shown.

[0017] Figure 11 It is a diagram for explaining Figure 10 The function of the lens shown.

[0018] Figure 12 It is a schematic top view showing yet another example of the sub-pixel layout.

[0019] Figure 13 It is a diagram showing Figure 12 A top view showing an example of the layout of the partition walls and the lens shown.

[0020] Figure 14 It is a diagram for explaining Figure 13 The function of the lens shown.

[0021] Figure 15 It is a schematic top view showing yet another example of the sub-pixel layout.

[0022] Figure 16 It is a diagram showing Figure 15 A top view showing an example of the layout of the partition walls and the lens shown.

[0023] Figure 17 It is a schematic top view showing yet another example of the sub-pixel layout.

[0024] Figure 18 It is a diagram showing Figure 17 A top view showing an example of the layout of the partition walls and the lens shown.

[0025] Figure 19 It is a diagram showing alongFigure 18 A cross-sectional view of a configuration example of a display device showing lines B-B' and C-C'.

[0026] Figure 20 A schematic top view showing another example of the layout of sub-pixels.

[0027] Figure 21 Shows Figure 20 A top view showing an example of the layout of partition walls and lenses shown.

[0028] Figure 22 A circuit diagram showing another example of the circuit configuration of sub-pixels.

[0029] Figure 23 A schematic top view showing another example of the layout of sub-pixels.

[0030] Figure 24 Shows Figure 23 A top view showing an example of the layout of partition walls and lenses shown.

[0031] Figure 25 Shows along Figure 24 A cross-sectional view of a configuration example of a display device showing line D-D'.

[0032] Figure 26 A diagram for explaining Figure 25 The function of the lens shown. Detailed implementation

[0033] Several embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0034] This disclosure is merely an example, and appropriate changes that are easily conceivable by those skilled in the art while maintaining the gist of the invention are of course included in the scope of the present invention. In addition, for the sake of clarity, the widths, thicknesses, shapes, etc. of the respective parts of the drawings are sometimes schematically shown compared to the actual mode, but this is only an example and does not limit the interpretation of the present invention. In addition, in this specification and each drawing, sometimes the same reference numerals are assigned to the constituent elements that perform the same or similar functions as those described in the accompanying drawings of the foregoing, and the repeated detailed descriptions are appropriately omitted.

[0035] It should be noted that in the drawings, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis that are orthogonal to each other are recorded as needed for easy understanding. The direction along the X-axis is called the X direction, the direction along the Y-axis is called the Y direction, and the direction along the Z-axis is called the Z direction. Observing various elements parallel to the Z direction is called a top view.

[0036] The display device of the present embodiment is an organic electroluminescent display device having an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) as a display element, and can be mounted on a television, a personal computer, a vehicle-mounted device, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, a mobile phone terminal, etc.

[0037] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing a configuration example of the display device DSP of an embodiment. The display device DSP has a display panel PNL provided on an insulating substrate 10, which has a display area DA for displaying an image and a peripheral area SA outside the display area DA. The substrate 10 can be glass or a flexible resin film.

[0038] In Figure 1 it, the shape of the substrate 10 in plan view is a rectangle having a long side parallel to the X direction. However, the shape of the substrate 10 in plan view is not limited to this example. For example, it can also be other shapes such as a rectangle having a long side parallel to the Y direction, a square, a circle, or an ellipse.

[0039] The display area DA includes a plurality of pixels PX arranged in a matrix in the X direction and the Y direction. The pixel PX includes a plurality of sub-pixels SP. In one example, the pixel PX includes a sub-pixel SP1 of a first color, a sub-pixel SP2 of a second color, and a sub-pixel SP3 of a third color. The first color, the second color, and the third color are different colors from each other. It should be noted that the pixel PX may also include sub-pixels SP of other colors such as white on the basis of or instead of one of the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3.

[0040] Although not described in detail, terminals for connecting an IC chip or a flexible printed circuit board are provided in the peripheral area SA.

[0041] Figure 2 It is a circuit diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the sub-pixel SP. The sub-pixel SP includes a pixel circuit 1 and display elements DEa and DEb driven by the pixel circuit 1. The pixel circuit 1 has a pixel switch 2, a driving transistor 3, a capacitor 4, and a switching element SW. The pixel switch 2, the driving transistor 3, and the switching element SW are formed of thin film transistors, for example.

[0042] The gate electrode of pixel switch 2 is connected to scan line GL. One of the source electrode and the drain electrode of pixel switch 2 is connected to signal line SL, and the other is connected to the gate electrode of driving transistor 3 and capacitor 4. In driving transistor 3, one of the source electrode and the drain electrode is connected to power line PL and capacitor 4, and the other is connected to the anode of display element DEa. Additionally, it is also connected to one of the source electrode and the drain electrode of switch element SW. The other of the source electrode and the drain electrode of switch element SW is connected to the anode of display element DEb. Display element DEa (the first display element) is connected in series with driving transistor 3, and display element DEb (the second display element) is connected in parallel with display element DEa. Switch element SW is disposed between driving transistor 3 and display element DEb. The gate electrode of switch element SW is connected to switch wiring SWL. A signal for switching between a first mode and a second mode described later is supplied to switch wiring SWL.

[0043] It should be noted that the structure of pixel circuit 1 is not limited to the illustrated example. For example, pixel circuit 1 may also include more thin film transistors and capacitors.

[0044] Display elements DEa and DEb are organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) as light-emitting elements, and are sometimes referred to as organic EL elements.

[0045] Display device DSP has a first mode and a second mode. The first mode is a state where switch element SW is off, and the second mode is a state where switch element SW is on.

[0046] When display device DSP is in the first mode, switch element SW is in the off state. Therefore, driving transistor 3 is conductive with the anode of display element DEa, but driving transistor 3 is not conductive with the anode of display element DEb. Thus, in the first mode, display element DEa emits light, but display element DEb does not emit light.

[0047] When display device DSP is in the second mode, switch element SW is in the on state. Therefore, driving transistor 3 is conductive with display element DEa and driving transistor 3 is conductive with display element DEb. Thus, in the second mode, display element DEa and display element DEb emit light.

[0048] In this way, by switching between the first mode and the second mode, the lighting state of display element DEb can be switched.

[0049] Figure 3It is a schematic top view showing an example of the layout of sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3. Sub-pixels SP2 and sub-pixel SP3 are arranged in the Y direction. Sub-pixels SP1 and sub-pixel SP2 are arranged in the X direction, and sub-pixels SP1 and sub-pixel SP3 are arranged in the X direction.

[0050] When the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3 are in this layout, in one example, columns in which sub-pixels SP2 and sub-pixel SP3 are alternately arranged in the Y direction and columns in which a plurality of sub-pixels SP1 are repeatedly arranged in the Y direction are formed within the display area DA. These columns are alternately arranged in the X direction.

[0051] It should be noted that the layout of the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3 is not limited to Figure 3 the example. As another example, the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3 in each pixel PX may also be arranged in sequence in the X direction.

[0052] An inorganic insulating layer 5 and a partition wall 6 are arranged in the display area DA. The inorganic insulating layer 5 has openings A51, A52, and A53 (pixel openings) in the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3, respectively. The inorganic insulating layer 5 having these openings A51, A52, and A53 is sometimes referred to as a rib portion.

[0053] The partition wall 6 overlaps with the inorganic insulating layer 5 in a top view. The partition wall 6 is formed in a lattice shape surrounding the openings A51, A52, and A53. The partition wall 6 has openings A61, A62, and A63 surrounded by the edge portions of the upper part of the partition wall 6 which will be described later using Figure 5 . The opening A61 surrounds the opening A51 in the sub-pixel SP1. The opening A62 surrounds the opening A52 in the sub-pixel SP2. The opening A63 surrounds the opening A53 in the sub-pixel SP3. In Figure 3 the example, the corners of the openings A51, A52, A53 and the openings A61, A62, A63 are formed in a chamfered shape, but they may also be formed in a right angle, and the openings A51, A52, A53 and the openings A61, A62, A63 may each also be formed in other shapes such as a circle or an ellipse. The partition wall 6 has conductivity and is electrically connected to the terminal of the common potential among the plurality of terminals provided in the peripheral area SA shown in Figure 1 .

[0054] The sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3 each include display elements DE1, DE2, and DE3 as display elements DE. The display elements DE1, DE2, and DE3 have light-emitting layers formed of materials that emit light of different colors from each other.

[0055] The display element DE1 of the sub-pixel SP1 includes display elements DE1a and DE1b. The display element DE1a includes a lower electrode LE11, an upper electrode UE1, and an organic layer OR1. The display element DE1b has a lower electrode LE12, an upper electrode UE1, and an organic layer OR1. The upper electrode UE1 and the organic layer OR1 are continuously overlapped with the lower electrodes LE11 and LE12. The lower electrodes LE11 and LE12, the upper electrode UE1, and the organic layer OR1 are respectively overlapped with the openings A51 and A61. The peripheral portions of the organic layer OR1 and the upper electrode UE1 are overlapped with the inorganic insulating layer 5 in a top view. The organic layer OR1 includes, for example, a light-emitting layer that emits light in the green wavelength range.

[0056] The display element DE2 of the sub-pixel SP2 includes display elements DE2a and DE2b. The display element DE2a includes a lower electrode LE21, an upper electrode UE2, and an organic layer OR2. The display element DE2b has a lower electrode LE22, an upper electrode UE2, and an organic layer OR2. The upper electrode UE2 and the organic layer OR2 are continuously overlapped with the lower electrodes LE21 and LE22. The lower electrodes LE21 and LE22, the upper electrode UE2, and the organic layer OR2 are respectively overlapped with the openings A52 and A62. The peripheral portions of the organic layer OR2 and the upper electrode UE2 are overlapped with the inorganic insulating layer 5 in a top view. The organic layer OR2 includes, for example, a light-emitting layer that emits light in the blue wavelength range.

[0057] The display element DE3 of the sub-pixel SP3 includes display elements DE3a and DE3b. The display element DE3a includes a lower electrode LE31, an upper electrode UE3, and an organic layer OR3. The display element DE3b includes a lower electrode LE32, an upper electrode UE3, and an organic layer OR3. The upper electrode UE3 and the organic layer OR3 are continuously overlapped with the lower electrodes LE31 and LE32. The lower electrodes LE31 and LE32, the upper electrode UE3, and the organic layer OR3 are respectively overlapped with the openings A53 and A63. The peripheral portions of the organic layer OR3 and the upper electrode UE3 are overlapped with the inorganic insulating layer 5 in a top view. The organic layer OR3 includes, for example, a light-emitting layer that emits light in the red wavelength range.

[0058] The display elements DE1a, DE2a, and DE3a correspond to Figure 2 the display element DEa shown. The display elements DE1b, DE2b, and DE3b correspond to Figure 2 the display element DEb shown.

[0059] In Figure 3In the illustrated example, the lower electrodes LE11, LE21, and LE31 are each formed in a rectangular shape having a long side parallel to the Y direction. Additionally, the short sides of the lower electrodes LE11, LE21, and LE31 that are parallel to the X direction overlap with the inorganic insulating layer 5 and the partition walls 6 in a plan view. It should be noted that these short sides may not overlap with the inorganic insulating layer 5 and the partition walls 6 in a plan view. Additionally, the shape of each of the lower electrodes LE11, LE21, and LE31 is not limited to a rectangular shape.

[0060] The lower electrodes LE11 and LE12 are separated from each other. In Figure 3 the illustrated example, the lower electrode LE11 is surrounded by the lower electrode LE12 in a plan view. The lower electrodes LE21 and LE22 are separated from each other. In Figure 3 the illustrated example, the lower electrode LE21 is surrounded by the lower electrode LE22 in a plan view. The lower electrodes LE31 and LE32 are separated from each other. In Figure 3 the illustrated example, the lower electrode LE31 is surrounded by the lower electrode LE32 in a plan view.

[0061] In one example, the lower electrode LE11 corresponds to the anode of the display element DE1a, the lower electrode LE21 corresponds to the anode of the display element DE2a, and the lower electrode LE31 corresponds to the anode of the display element DE3a. Additionally, in one example, the lower electrode LE12 corresponds to the anode of the display element DE1b, the lower electrode LE22 corresponds to the anode of the display element DE2b, and the lower electrode LE32 corresponds to the anode of the display element DE3b. The lower electrodes LE11, LE21, and LE31 are connected to Figure 2 the source electrode or the drain electrode of the driving transistor 3 in each of the illustrated sub-pixels SP. The lower electrodes LE12, LE22, and LE32 are connected to Figure 2 the source electrode or the drain electrode of the switching element SW in each of the illustrated sub-pixels SP. The upper electrodes UE1, UE2, and UE3 correspond to the cathode of the display element or a common electrode and are in contact with the partition walls 6.

[0062] The organic layer OR1 has, in a plan view, a first region AR11 corresponding to the region where the opening A51 overlaps with the lower electrode LE11 and a second region AR12 corresponding to the region where the opening A51 overlaps with the lower electrode LE12. The organic layer OR2 has, in a plan view, a first region AR21 corresponding to the region where the opening A52 overlaps with the lower electrode LE21 and a second region AR22 corresponding to the region where the opening A52 overlaps with the lower electrode LE22. The organic layer OR3 has, in a plan view, a first region AR31 corresponding to the region where the opening A53 overlaps with the lower electrode LE31 and a second region AR32 corresponding to the region where the opening A53 overlaps with the lower electrode LE32.

[0063] In Figure 3In the example, the first regions AR11, AR21, AR31 and the second regions AR12, AR22, AR32 are represented by diagonal hatching.

[0064] When the display device DSP is in the first mode, as described above, Figure 2 the shown display element DEa emits light, but the display element DEb does not emit light. Therefore, in the first mode, the first regions AR11, AR21, AR31 emit light, but the second regions AR12, AR22, AR32 do not emit light.

[0065] When the display device DSP is in the second mode, as described above, Figure 2 the shown display element DEa and the display element DEb emit light. Therefore, in the second mode, the first regions AR11, AR21, AR31 and the second regions AR12, AR22, AR32 emit light.

[0066] In Figure 3 the example, the outer shapes of the lower electrodes LE11, LE12, LE21, LE22, LE31, LE32 are represented by dashed lines, and the outer shapes of the organic layers OR1, OR2, OR3, and the upper electrodes UE1, UE2, UE3 are represented by dotted lines. It should be noted that the outer shapes of the illustrated lower electrodes, organic layers, and upper electrodes do not necessarily reflect the exact shapes.

[0067] In Figure 3 the example, the areas of the openings A51, A52, A53 are different from each other. The area of the opening A51 is larger than the area of the opening A52, and the area of the opening A52 is larger than the area of the opening A53. The sum of the areas of the lower electrodes LE11, LE12 exposed from the opening A51 is larger than the sum of the areas of the lower electrodes LE21, LE22 exposed from the opening A52. The sum of the areas of the lower electrodes LE21, LE22 exposed from the opening A52 is larger than the sum of the areas of the lower electrodes LE31, LE32 exposed from the opening A53. It should be noted that the size relationship of the areas of the openings A51, A52, A53 is not limited to the illustrated example.

[0068] Similarly, in Figure 3 the example, the areas of the openings A61, A62, A63 are different from each other. The area of the opening A61 is larger than the area of the opening A62, and the area of the opening A62 is larger than the area of the opening A63. It should be noted that the size relationship of the areas of the openings A61, A62, A63 is not limited to the illustrated example.

[0069] Figure 4 shows Figure 3A plan view showing an example of the layout of the partition wall 6 and the lenses ML1 and ML2. It should be noted that in Figure 4 the illustration of the inorganic insulating layer, the organic layer, the upper electrode, etc. is omitted.

[0070] In the opening A61, the edge portion of the partition wall 6 includes the opening edges AE1 and AE2. The opening edges AE1 and AE2 are parallel to the Y direction. The opening edges AE1 and AE2 face each other along the X direction. In Figure 4 the example shown, the opening edges AE1 and AE2 coincide with the lower electrode LE12 in a plan view.

[0071] In the opening A62, the edge portion of the partition wall 6 includes the opening edges AE3 and AE4. The opening edges AE3 and AE4 are parallel to the Y direction. The opening edges AE3 and AE4 face each other along the X direction. In Figure 4 the example shown, the opening edges AE3 and AE4 coincide with the lower electrode LE22 in a plan view.

[0072] In the opening A63, the edge portion of the partition wall 6 includes the opening edges AE5 and AE6. The opening edges AE5 and AE6 are parallel to the Y direction. The opening edges AE5 and AE6 face each other along the X direction. In Figure 4 the example shown, the opening edges AE5 and AE6 coincide with the lower electrode LE32 in a plan view.

[0073] The display device DSP further includes the lenses ML1 and ML2. The lenses ML1 and ML2 extend in the Y direction. The lens ML1 coincides with the opening A61 and the display element DE1 in a plan view. In Figure 4 the example, the lens ML1 covers the opening A61. The lens ML2 coincides with the openings A62 and A63 and the display elements DE2 and DE3 in a plan view. In Figure 4 the example, the lens ML2 continuously covers the openings A62 and A63.

[0074] The lens ML1 has lens edges ME1 (first lens edge), ME2 (second lens edge), and a center line MC1. The lens edges ME1, ME2, and the center line MC1 are parallel to the Y direction. In the example shown, the lens edges ME1 and ME2 coincide with the partition wall 6 in a plan view, respectively. In addition, the lens edge ME1 is located between the opening edge AE1 and the opening edge AE4 and between the opening edge AE1 and the opening edge AE6 in the X direction. Moreover, the lens edge ME2 is located between the opening edge AE2 and the opening edge AE3 and between the opening edge AE2 and the opening edge AE5 in the X direction.

[0075] The center line MC1 is located between the opening edges AE1 and AE2 in the X direction and coincides with the opening A61 and the display element DE1 in a plan view. In the illustrated example, the center line MC1 coincides with the lower electrode LE11 in a plan view.

[0076] The lens ML2 has lens edges ME3 (first lens edge), ME4 (second lens edge), and a center line MC2. The lens edges ME3, ME4, and the center line MC2 are parallel to the Y direction. In the illustrated example, the lens edges ME3, ME4 coincide with the partition walls 6 respectively in a plan view. In addition, the lens edge ME3 is located between the opening edge AE2 and the opening edge AE3 in the X direction, and between the opening edge AE2 and the opening edge AE5. Moreover, the lens edge ME4 is located between the opening edge AE1 and the opening edge AE4 in the X direction, and between the opening edge AE1 and the opening edge AE6.

[0077] The center line MC2 is located between the opening edge AE3 and the opening edge AE4 and between the opening edge AE5 and the opening edge AE6 in the X direction, and coincides with the openings A62, A63 and the display elements DE2, DE3 in a plan view. In the illustrated example, the center line MC2 coincides with the lower electrodes LE21, LE31 in a plan view.

[0078] In this specification, the center line of a lens is a line connecting a plurality of principal points of the lens. The principal point is a point where the principal plane of the lens is orthogonal to the optical axis. The principal plane is a plane that contains the intersection point of the incident light ray before incidence and the emitted light ray when a light ray parallel to the optical axis is incident on the lens and is orthogonal to the optical axis.

[0079] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of the display device DSP along the Figure 4 A - A' line shown. It should be noted that hereinafter, the sub - pixels SP1, SP2 will be described, but the sub - pixel SP3 is also configured in the same way as the sub - pixels SP1, SP2.

[0080] The circuit layer 11 is disposed on the substrate 10. The circuit layer 11 includes Figure 2 various circuits such as the pixel circuit 1 shown, and various wirings such as the scan line GL, the signal line SL, and the power line PL. The circuit layer 11 is covered by an insulating layer 12. The insulating layer 12 is an organic insulating layer that planarizes the unevenness generated by the circuit layer 11.

[0081] The lower electrodes LE11, LE12, LE21, and LE22 are disposed on the insulating layer 12 and are separated from each other. The inorganic insulating layer 5 is disposed on the insulating layer 12 and the lower electrodes LE12 and LE22. The openings A51 of the inorganic insulating layer 5 coincide with the lower electrodes LE11 and LE12, and the openings A52 coincide with the lower electrodes LE21 and LE22. Between the lower electrodes LE12 and LE22, the insulating layer 12 is covered by the inorganic insulating layer 5. The lower electrodes LE11 and LE12 pass through the contact holes provided in the insulating layer 12 and are connected to the pixel circuit 1 of the sub-pixel SP1. The lower electrodes LE21 and LE22 pass through the contact holes provided in the insulating layer 12 and are connected to the pixel circuit 1 of the sub-pixel SP2. It should be noted that in Figure 5 the contact holes of the insulating layer 12 are omitted.

[0082] The partition wall 6 includes a lower portion 61 having conductivity disposed on the inorganic insulating layer 5 and an upper portion 62 disposed on the lower portion 61. The lower portion 61 surrounds the display elements DE1 and DE2 in plan view. The upper portion 62 has edge portions AE that surround the openings A61 and A62 in plan view. The edge portions AE protrude more than the side surfaces of the lower portion 61. This shape of the partition wall 6 can also be referred to as a hanging shape.

[0083] In the illustrated example, the lower portion 61 has a first conductive layer 63 disposed on the inorganic insulating layer 5 and a second conductive layer 64 disposed on the first conductive layer 63. For example, the first conductive layer 63 is formed thinner than the second conductive layer 64. In addition, in the illustrated example, both ends of the first conductive layer 63 protrude from the side surfaces of the second conductive layer 64.

[0084] The upper portion 62 has a thin film 65 disposed on the second conductive layer 64 and a thin film 66 disposed on the thin film 65. Both ends of the thin film 65 and the thin film 66 protrude from the side surfaces of the second conductive layer 64. In the illustrated example, the edge portion AE of the thin film 65 surrounds the openings A61 and A62. The edge portion AE corresponds to, for example, the end portion of the thin film 65.

[0085] The organic layer OR1 passes through the opening A51 and contacts the lower electrodes LE11 and LE12, covers the lower electrodes LE11 and LE12 exposed from the opening A51, and the peripheral portion thereof is located on the inorganic insulating layer 5. The region where the organic layer OR1 contacts the lower electrode LE11 corresponds to the first region AR11, and the region where the organic layer OR1 contacts the lower electrode LE12 corresponds to the second region AR12. The organic layer OR1 passes through the opening A51 between the lower electrodes LE11 and LE12 and contacts the insulating layer 12. The upper electrode UE1 covers the organic layer OR1 and contacts the lower portion 61.

[0086] The organic layer OR2 passes through the opening A52 to contact the lower electrodes LE21 and LE22, covers the lower electrodes LE21 and LE22 exposed from the opening A52, and its peripheral portion is located on the inorganic insulating layer 5. The region where the organic layer OR2 contacts the lower electrode LE21 corresponds to the first region AR21, and the region where the organic layer OR2 contacts the lower electrode LE22 corresponds to the second region AR22. The organic layer OR2 passes through the opening A52 between the lower electrode LE21 and the lower electrode LE22 to contact the insulating layer 12. The upper electrode UE2 covers the organic layer OR2 and contacts the lower part 61.

[0087] In Figure 5 the example of, the sub-pixel SP1 has a cover layer CP1 and a first encapsulation layer SE11, and the sub-pixel SP2 has a cover layer CP2 and a first encapsulation layer SE12. The cover layers CP1 and CP2 each have the function of an optical adjustment layer that improves the light acquisition efficiency of the light emitted from the organic layers OR1 and OR2. It should be noted that the cover layers CP1 and CP2 can also be omitted. The cover layer CP1 is disposed above the upper electrode UE1. The cover layer CP2 is disposed above the upper electrode UE2.

[0088] The first encapsulation layer SE11 is disposed above the cover layer CP1, contacts the partition wall 6, and continuously covers the components of the sub-pixel SP1. The first encapsulation layer SE12 is disposed above the cover layer CP2, contacts the partition wall 6, and continuously covers the components of the sub-pixel SP2.

[0089] In Figure 5 the example of, a part of each of the organic layer OR1, the upper electrode UE1, and the cover layer CP1 is located on the partition wall 6 around the sub-pixel SP1. These parts are separated from the parts of the organic layer OR1, the upper electrode UE1, and the cover layer CP1 located in the opening A51 (the part constituting the display element DE1).

[0090] Similarly, a part of each of the organic layer OR2, the upper electrode UE2, and the cover layer CP2 is located on the partition wall 6 around the sub-pixel SP2, and these parts are separated from the parts of the organic layer OR2, the upper electrode UE2, and the cover layer CP2 located in the opening A52 (the part constituting the display element DE2).

[0091] In the following description, the multi-layer body including the organic layer OR1, the upper electrode UE1, and the cover layer CP1 is referred to as a stacked film FL1, and the multi-layer body including the organic layer OR2, the upper electrode UE2, and the cover layer CP2 is referred to as a stacked film FL2.

[0092] The end portions of the first encapsulation layers SE11 and SE12, and the end portions of the stacked films FL1 and FL2 are respectively located on the partition wall 6. In Figure 5In the example, the stacked film FL1 and the first sealing layer SE11 on the partition wall 6 between the sub-pixels SP1 and SP2 are separated from the stacked film FL2 and the first sealing layer SE12 on the partition wall 6.

[0093] The partition wall 6 and the first sealing layers SE11 and SE12 are covered by the organic insulating layer RS1 (the first organic insulating layer). The organic insulating layer RS1 is covered by the second sealing layer SE2. The second sealing layer SE2 is covered by the organic insulating layer RS2 (the second organic insulating layer). In the illustrated example, the organic insulating layer RS2 is thicker than the organic insulating layer RS1.

[0094] The lenses ML1 and ML2 are arranged on the organic insulating layer RS2. The lenses ML1 and ML2 are formed in a convex shape protruding in the opposite direction to the substrate 10 in the Z direction. The lens ML1 coincides with the lower electrodes LE11, LE12, the stacked film FL1, and the first sealing layer SE11 in the Z direction. The lens ML2 coincides with the lower electrodes LE21, LE22, the stacked film FL2, and the first sealing layer SE12 in the Z direction. In one example, the lenses ML1 and ML2 are covered by an air layer. In another example, the lenses ML1 and ML2 are covered with a material having a refractive index smaller than the refractive index of each of the lenses ML1 and ML2.

[0095] The center line MC1 is located at the thickest part of the lens ML1. In Figure 5 the illustration is omitted, but Figure 4 the center line MC2 shown is located at the thickest part on the lens ML2.

[0096] It should be noted that the positions of the focal points of the lenses ML1 and ML2 are preferably consistent with the positions of the light-emitting layers included in the organic layers OR1 and OR2. It should be noted that, for example, by changing the thicknesses of the organic insulating layers RS1 and RS2, the positions of the focal points of the lenses ML1 and ML2 can be made consistent with the positions of the light-emitting layers.

[0097] A cover member such as a polarizing plate or a cover glass may be further arranged above the lenses ML1 and ML2.

[0098] The display device DSP also has a light-shielding layer BM arranged on the organic insulating layer RS2. The light-shielding layer BM covers between the lenses ML1 and ML2 in the X direction. In the illustrated example, the light-shielding layer BM coincides with the lens edges ME1 to ME4. In addition, both ends of the light-shielding layer BM are covered by the lenses ML1 and ML2.

[0099] The inorganic insulating layer 5, the first sealing layers SE11 and SE12, and the second sealing layer SE2 are formed of an inorganic insulating material such as silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon oxynitride (SiON), or aluminum oxide (Al2O3). The organic insulating layers RS1 and RS2 are formed of a resin material (organic insulating material) such as an epoxy resin or an acrylic resin.

[0100] The lower part 61 of the partition wall 6 is formed of a conductive material and is electrically connected to the upper electrodes UE1 and UE2. The first conductive layer 63 is formed of a titanium-based material such as titanium or a titanium compound. The second conductive layer 64 is formed of a material different from that of the first conductive layer 63 and the upper part 62, and is formed of an aluminum-based material such as aluminum or an aluminum compound, for example.

[0101] The upper part 62 of the partition wall 6 is formed of a conductive material, for example, but may also be formed of an insulating material. The thin film 65 is formed of a titanium-based material such as titanium or a titanium compound. The thin film 66 is formed of an oxide conductive material such as indium tin oxide (ITO).

[0102] The lower electrodes LE11, LE12, LE21, and LE22 are a multilayer body including a transparent layer formed of an oxide conductive material such as indium tin oxide (ITO) and a reflective layer formed of a metal material such as silver. In one example, the lower electrodes LE11, LE12, LE21, and LE22 are a multilayer body including a reflective layer between a pair of transparent layers. The lower transparent layer functions as an adhesion layer that adheres to the insulating layer 12.

[0103] In one example, the organic layer OR1 includes a light-emitting layer formed of a material that emits green light, and the organic layer OR2 includes a light-emitting layer formed of a material that emits blue light. In another example, the organic layer OR1 may also include a light-emitting layer formed of a material that emits blue light, and the organic layer OR2 may also include a light-emitting layer formed of a material that emits green light. In addition, the organic layers OR1 and OR2 each include a plurality of functional layers such as a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, an electron blocking layer, a hole blocking layer, an electron transport layer, and an electron injection layer.

[0104] The upper electrodes UE1 and UE2 are formed of a metal material such as an alloy of magnesium and silver (MgAg), for example. The cover layers CP1 and CP2 are a multilayer body of a plurality of thin films. The plurality of thin films are all transparent and have different refractive indexes from each other.

[0105] The lenses ML1 and ML2 are formed of a transparent resin material such as an epoxy resin, an acrylic resin, or a polyimide resin.

[0106] Figure 6 is for explaining Figure 5A diagram showing the function of the lens ML1. The light ray L1 emitted from the display element DE1a that coincides with the center line MC1 travels along the Z direction with almost no refraction at the interface between the lens ML1 and air. On the other hand, the light ray L2 emitted from the display element DE1b along the Z direction is refracted at the interface between the lens ML1 and air and travels in a direction inclined toward the center line MC1 side of the lens ML1 from the Z direction.

[0107] That is, a user on the traveling direction side of the light ray L1 can visually confirm the light emitted from the display element DE1a, but basically cannot visually confirm the light emitted from the display element DE1b. A user on the traveling direction side of the light ray L2 can visually confirm the light emitted from the display element DE1b, but can hardly visually confirm the light emitted from the display element DE1a. In this way, the lens ML1 refracts the light rays emitted from the display element and plays a role in restricting the viewing angle.

[0108] When the display device DSP is in the first mode, the display element DE1a emits light and the display element DE1b does not emit light. Therefore, a user on the traveling direction side of the light ray L1 can visually confirm the image displayed on the display device DSP well, but a user on the traveling direction side of the light ray L2 can basically not visually confirm the image. That is, in the first mode, the viewing angle of the display device DSP is restricted.

[0109] On the other hand, when the display device DSP is in the second mode, the display elements DE1a and DE1b emit light. Therefore, users on the traveling direction sides of the light rays L1 and L2 can visually confirm the image well. That is, in the second mode, the viewing angle of the display device DSP becomes wider than that in the first mode. Therefore, by switching between the first mode and the second mode, the viewing angle of the display device DSP can be controlled.

[0110] Next, the case where the display device DSP of the present embodiment is mounted on a vehicle such as an automobile will be described. Figure 7 This is a diagram showing a state in which the display device DSP mounted on the in-vehicle device displays an image in the first mode. Figure 8 This is a diagram showing a state in which the display device DSP mounted on the in-vehicle device displays an image in the second mode. As an example, the case where the display device DSP is mounted on the front of the passenger seat will be described.

[0111] As shown in Figure 7As shown, when displaying an image in the first mode, the passenger PAS sitting in the front passenger seat in front of the display device DSP can visually confirm the screen 101 on which the image is displayed in the display area DA well. On the other hand, the driver DRV is restricted from visually confirming the displayed image and can visually confirm the screen 102 that displays an image darker than the passenger seat side or the screen 102 on which no image is displayed.

[0112] As Figure 8 shown, when displaying an image in the second mode, the passenger PAS in the passenger seat can visually confirm the screen 101 on which the image is displayed in the display area DA well. The driver DRV can visually confirm the screen 102 that displays the same image as the image visually confirmed by the passenger PAS in the passenger seat well.

[0113] During driving, when it is desired that the image displayed on the display device DSP is not easily visually confirmed from the driver's seat side and the image can be visually confirmed from the passenger seat side, the image is displayed in the first mode. Thus, as Figure 7 shown, the visual confirmation of the image from the driver's seat side is restricted and the image can be visually confirmed well from the passenger seat side. On the other hand, when it is desired to be able to visually confirm the image from both the driver's seat side and the passenger seat side in the state where the engine is turned off, the image is displayed in the second mode. Thus, as Figure 8 shown, the image can be visually confirmed well from both the driver's seat side and the passenger seat side. In this way, by switching between the first mode and the second mode, the viewing angle is controlled, and in particular, the visual confirmability of the image from the driver's seat side can be switched.

[0114] Figure 9 is a schematic top view showing another example of the layout of the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3. In the Figure 9 example, the lower electrodes LE11 and LE21 are arranged along the X direction, the lower electrodes LE21 and LE22 are arranged along the X direction, and the lower electrodes LE31 and LE32 are arranged along the X direction. In addition, the first region AR11 is larger than the second region AR12, the first region AR21 is larger than the second region AR22, and the first region AR31 is larger than the second region AR32.

[0115] Figure 10 is a top view showing Figure 9 an example of the layout of the partition wall 6 and the lenses ML1 and ML2 shown in Figure 10 the example shown. In the Figure 10 example shown, the direction (X direction) in which the lower electrodes LE11 and LE12 are arranged is orthogonal to the center line MC1 of the lens ML1. In addition, the direction in which the lower electrodes LE21 and LE22 are arranged and the direction in which the lower electrodes LE31 and LE32 are arranged (X direction) are orthogonal to the center line MC2 of the lens ML2.

[0116] In Figure 10 the example shown, the center line MC1 of the lens ML1 coincides with the lower electrode LE11 in a plan view. In addition, the center line MC2 of the lens ML2 coincides with the lower electrodes LE21 and LE31 in a plan view.

[0117] In Figure 10 the example shown, the opening edge AE1 coincides with the lower electrode LE11 in a plan view, and the opening edge AE2 coincides with the lower electrode LE12 in a plan view. In addition, the opening edge AE3 coincides with the lower electrode LE21 in a plan view, and the opening edge AE4 coincides with the lower electrode LE22 in a plan view. Further, the opening edge AE5 coincides with the lower electrode LE31 in a plan view, and the opening edge AE6 coincides with the lower electrode LE32 in a plan view.

[0118] Figure 11 is a diagram for explaining Figure 10 the function of the lens ML1 shown. It should be noted that hereinafter, the direction along the X direction from the lens edge ME1 toward the center line MC1 is defined as the X1 direction, and the direction along the X direction from the lens edge ME2 toward the center line MC1 is defined as the X2 direction.

[0119] The light ray L1 emitted along the Z direction from the portion of the display element DE1a that coincides with the center line MC1 hardly refracts at the interface between the lens ML1 and air and travels along the Z direction. The light ray L2 emitted along the Z direction from the portion of the display element DE1a that is on the X2 direction side with respect to the center line MC1 refracts at the interface between the lens ML1 and air and travels along a direction inclined from the Z direction toward the center line MC1 side (X1 direction side) of the lens ML1. The light ray L3 emitted along the Z direction from the display element DE1b refracts at the interface between the lens ML1 and air and travels along a direction inclined from the Z direction toward the center line MC1 side (X2 direction side) of the lens ML1.

[0120] That is, a user on the traveling direction side of the light rays L1 and L2 can visually confirm the light emitted from the display element DE1a, but can hardly visually confirm the light emitted from the display element DE1b. A user on the traveling direction side of the light ray L3 can visually confirm the light emitted from the display element DE1b, but can hardly visually confirm the light emitted from the display element DE1a.

[0121] When the display device DSP is in the first mode, a user on the traveling direction side of the light rays L1 and L2 can visually confirm the image displayed on the display device DSP well. When the display device DSP is in the second mode, a user on the traveling direction side of the light rays L1, L2, and L3 can visually confirm the image well. Therefore, by switching between the first mode and the second mode, the viewing angle of the display device DSP can be controlled.

[0122] Figure 12 It is a schematic top view showing another example of the layout of the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3. In Figure 12 this example, the first region AR11 is smaller than the second region AR12, the first region AR21 is smaller than the second region AR22, and the first region AR31 is smaller than the second region AR32.

[0123] Figure 13 It is to show Figure 12 A top view showing an example of the layout of the partition wall 6 and the lens shown in Figure 13 In the example shown in

[0124] Figure 14 It is for explaining Figure 13 the function of the lens ML1 shown in

[0125] That is, a user on the traveling direction side of the light rays L1 and L2 can visually confirm the light emitted from the display element DE1b, but basically cannot visually confirm the light emitted from the display element DE1a. A user on the traveling direction side of the light ray L3 can visually confirm the light emitted from the display element DE1a, but basically cannot visually confirm the light emitted from the display element DE1b.

[0126] When the display device DSP is in the first mode, a user on the traveling direction side of the light ray L3 can visually confirm the image displayed on the display device DSP well. When the display device DSP is in the second mode, a user on the traveling direction sides of the light rays L1, L2, and L3 can visually confirm the image well. Therefore, by switching between the first mode and the second mode, the viewing angle of the display device DSP can be controlled.

[0127] Figure 15 It is a schematic top view showing another example of the layout of the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3. In Figure 15 In the example shown, the lower electrodes LE11, LE21, and LE31 are each formed in a rectangular shape having a long side parallel to the X direction. In addition, the short sides of the lower electrodes LE11, LE21, and LE31 that are parallel to the Y direction overlap with the inorganic insulating layer 5 and the partition wall 6 in a top view.

[0128] In Figure 15 In the example shown, the lower electrode LE11 is surrounded by the lower electrode LE12 in a top view, the lower electrode LE21 is surrounded by the lower electrode LE22 in a top view, and the lower electrode LE31 is surrounded by the lower electrode LE32 in a top view.

[0129] Figure 16 It is a schematic top view showing Figure 15 an example of the layout of the partition wall 6 and the lenses ML1, ML2, and ML3 shown. In Figure 16 In the example shown, the lenses ML1 and ML2 extend in the X direction. The lens edges ME1 to ME4 and the center lines MC1 and MC2 are parallel to the X direction. In addition, the lens ML1 covers the opening A61, and the lens ML2 covers the opening A62. In Figure 16 In the example shown, the respective cross-sectional shapes of the lenses ML1 and ML2 in the Y direction are convex shapes protruding toward the side opposite to the substrate 10 (refer to Figure 5 ).

[0130] The display device DSP further includes a lens ML3 in addition to the above lenses ML1 and ML2. In Figure 15 In the example shown, the lens ML3 extends in the X direction. The lens ML3 coincides with the opening A63 in a top view and coincides with the display element DE3. In Figure 15 In the example of

[0131] The lens ML3 has lens rims ME5 (first lens rim), ME6 (second lens rim), and a center line MC3. The lens rims ME5, ME6, and the center line MC3 are parallel to the X direction. In the illustrated example, the lens rims ME5, ME6 coincide with the partition wall 6 respectively in a plan view. Further, the center line MC3 coincides with the opening A63 and the display element DE3 in a plan view. Moreover, the center line MC3 coincides with the lower electrode LE31 in a plan view. In Figure 16 the illustrated example, the cross-sectional shape of the lens ML3 along the Y direction is convex protruding toward the side opposite to the substrate 10.

[0132] In Figure 16 the illustrated display device DSP, by switching between the first mode and the second mode, the viewing angle in the Y direction can be controlled. By controlling the viewing angle in the Y direction, for example, when the display device DSP is mounted on an automobile, it is possible to suppress the display image from being reflected on the windshield of the automobile.

[0133] Figure 17 is a schematic plan view showing another example of the layout of the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, SP3. In Figure 17 the illustrated example, the lower electrodes LE11, LE12 are arranged in the X direction and the Y direction, the lower electrodes LE21, LE22 are arranged in the X direction and the Y direction, and the lower electrodes LE31, LE32 are arranged in the X direction and the Y direction. Further, the lower electrode LE12 is formed in a substantially U shape along the outer shape of the lower electrode LE11, the lower electrode LE22 is formed in a substantially U shape along the outer shape of the lower electrode LE21, and the lower electrode LE32 is formed in a substantially U shape along the outer shape of the lower electrode LE31.

[0134] Figure 18 is a plan view showing Figure 17 an example of the layout of the partition wall 6 and the lenses ML1, ML2, ML3 shown. In Figure 18 the illustrated example, the lens ML1 is formed in a shape in a plan view composed of lens rims ME1, ME2 parallel to the Y direction and two semi-circular arcs protruding outward from the lens ML1 in the Y direction. Further, the lens ML2 is formed in a shape in a plan view composed of lens rims ME3, ME4 parallel to the Y direction and two semi-circular arcs protruding outward from the lens ML2 in the Y direction. It should be noted that the lenses ML1, ML2 may also be formed in an elliptical shape or a circular shape in a plan view, for example.

[0135] In Figure 18 the illustrated example, the lens ML3 is formed in a circular shape in a plan view. It should be noted that the lens ML3 may also be formed in a shape composed of a straight line parallel to the X direction and two arcs protruding outward from the lens ML3 in the X direction or an elliptical shape in a plan view, for example.

[0136] In Figure 18 the example shown, the lenses ML1, ML2, and ML3 do not completely cover the openings A61, A62, and A63 respectively in a top view. It should be noted that the lenses ML1, ML2, and ML3 may also completely cover the openings A61, A62, and A63 respectively in a top view. The portions of the openings A61, A62, and A63 that do not coincide with the lenses ML1, ML2, and ML3 coincide with a light-shielding layer ( Figure 5 the light-shielding layer BM shown).

[0137] The lenses ML1, ML2, and ML3 have principal points P1, P2, and P3 respectively. The principal point P1 coincides with the lower electrode LE11 in a top view, the principal point P2 coincides with the lower electrode LE21 in a top view, and the principal point P3 coincides with the lower electrode LE31 in a top view. The principal points P1, P2, and P3 are respectively located at the thickest portions of the lenses ML1, ML2, and ML3.

[0138] Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of the display device DSP along the Figure 18 B-B' line and the C-C' line shown. Figure 19 The upper figure of Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of the display device DSP along the B-B' line in

[0139] Figure 19 Figure 18 The cross-sectional shape of the lens ML1 along the Y direction is convex protruding toward the side opposite to the substrate 10. Therefore, like the X direction, the viewing angle in the Y direction is restricted. By restricting the viewing angle in the Y direction, when the display device DSP is mounted on a vehicle, for example, it is possible to prevent the displayed image from being reflected on the windshield of the vehicle.

[0140] Figure 19 It should be noted that in

[0141]

[0142] In the lenses ML2 and ML3, similar to the lens ML1, the cross-sectional shapes along the X direction and the Y direction are convex protruding toward the side opposite to the substrate 10. Figure 20 Figure 20 Figure 17 is a schematic top view showing another example of the layout of the sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3. Figure 20 The area ratio of the first region AR11 shown Figure 17The area of the shown first region AR11 is small. Figure 20 The area of the shown first region AR21 is smaller than Figure 17 The area of the shown first region AR21 is small. Figure 20 The area of the shown first region AR31 is smaller than Figure 17 The area of the shown first region AR31 is small.

[0143] Figure 21 It shows Figure 20 A plan view showing an example of the layout of the shown partition wall 6 and lenses ML1, ML2, and ML3. In Figure 21 In the shown example, the principal point P1 coincides with the lower electrode LE12 in plan view, the principal point P2 coincides with the lower electrode LE22 in plan view, and the principal point P3 coincides with the lower electrode LE32 in plan view. In Figure 21 In the shown display device DSP, the viewing angles in the X direction and the Y direction can be restricted.

[0144] In Figures 17 to 21 when the X direction corresponds to the first direction, the Y direction corresponds to the second direction. Also, when the Y direction corresponds to the first direction, the X direction corresponds to the second direction.

[0145] Figure 22 It is a circuit diagram showing another example of the circuit configuration of the sub-pixel SP. The sub-pixel SP further includes a display element DEc driven by the pixel circuit 1 in addition to the above-mentioned display elements DEa and DEb. The display element DEc is connected in parallel with the display element DEb. The anodes of the display elements DEb and DEc are connected to the source electrode or the drain electrode of the switching element SW. The display element DEc is an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) as a light-emitting element, similar to the display elements DEa and DEb.

[0146] In Figure 22 In the case of such a circuit shown, in the first mode, the switching element SW is in the off state. Therefore, the driving transistor 3 is conducting with the display element DEa, but the driving transistor 3 is not conducting with the display element DEb and the driving transistor 3 is not conducting with the display element DEc. Therefore, in the first mode, the display element DEa emits light, but the display elements DEb and DEc do not emit light.

[0147] In the second mode, the switching element SW is in the on state. Therefore, the driving transistor 3 is conducting with the display element DEa, the driving transistor 3 is conducting with the display element DEb, and the driving transistor 3 is conducting with the display element DEc. Therefore, in the second mode, the display elements DEa, DEb, and DEc emit light.

[0148] Figure 23It is a schematic top view showing another example of the layout of sub-pixels SP1, SP2, and SP3. The display element DE1 of sub-pixel SP1 further includes a display element DE1c on the basis of the above-mentioned display elements DE1a and DE1b. The display element DE1c has a lower electrode LE13, an upper electrode UE1, and an organic layer OR1. The upper electrode UE1 and the organic layer OR1 are continuously overlapped with the lower electrodes LE11, LE12, and LE13.

[0149] The lower electrode LE13 is separated from the lower electrodes LE11 and LE12. The lower electrode LE13 is overlapped with the opening A51 and the opening A61. The lower electrode LE11 is arranged between the lower electrode LE12 and the lower electrode LE13 in the X direction.

[0150] The display element DE2 of sub-pixel SP2 further includes a display element DE2c on the basis of the above-mentioned display elements DE2a and DE2b. The display element DE2c includes a lower electrode LE23, an upper electrode UE2, and an organic layer OR2. The upper electrode UE2 and the organic layer OR2 are continuously overlapped with the lower electrodes LE21, LE22, and LE23.

[0151] The lower electrode LE23 is separated from the lower electrodes LE21 and LE22. The lower electrode LE23 is overlapped with the opening A52 and the opening A62. The lower electrode LE21 is arranged between the lower electrode LE22 and the lower electrode LE23 in the X direction.

[0152] The display element DE3 of sub-pixel SP3 further includes a display element DE3c on the basis of the above-mentioned display elements DE3a and DE3b. The display element DE3c has a lower electrode LE33, an upper electrode UE3, and an organic layer OR3. The upper electrode UE3 and the organic layer OR3 are continuously overlapped with the lower electrodes LE31, LE32, and LE33.

[0153] The lower electrode LE33 is separated from the lower electrodes LE31 and LE32. The lower electrode LE33 is overlapped with the opening A53 and the opening A63. The lower electrode LE31 is arranged between the lower electrode LE32 and the lower electrode LE33 in the X direction.

[0154] The display elements DE1c, DE2c, and DE3c correspond to Figure 22 the shown display element DEc. In one example, the lower electrode LE13 corresponds to the anode of the display element DE1c, the lower electrode LE23 corresponds to the anode of the display element DE2c, and the lower electrode LE33 corresponds to the anode of the display element DE3c. The lower electrodes LE13, LE23, and LE33 and Figure 22The source electrode or drain electrode of the switching element SW in each of the sub-pixels SP shown is connected. That is, the lower electrode LE12 is electrically connected to the lower electrode LE13, the lower electrode LE22 is electrically connected to the lower electrode LE23, and the lower electrode LE32 is electrically connected to the lower electrode LE33. In Figure 23 the example, the outer shapes of the lower electrodes LE13, LE23, and LE33 are represented by dashed lines.

[0155] Based on the above-mentioned first region AR11 and second region AR12, the organic layer OR1 further has a third region AR13 corresponding to the region where the opening A51 and the lower electrode LE13 overlap in a top view. Based on the above-mentioned first region AR21 and second region AR22, the organic layer OR2 further has a third region AR23 corresponding to the region where the opening A52 and the lower electrode LE23 overlap in a top view. Based on the above-mentioned first region AR31 and second region AR32, the organic layer OR3 further has a third region AR33 corresponding to the region where the opening A53 and the lower electrode LE33 overlap in a top view. In Figure 23 the example, the third regions AR13, AR23, and AR33 are represented by diagonal hatching.

[0156] When the display device DSP is in the first mode, as described above, Figure 22 the display element DEa shown emits light, but the display elements DEb and DEc do not emit light. Therefore, in the first mode, the first regions AR11, AR21, and AR31 emit light, but the second regions AR12, AR22, and AR32 and the third regions AR13, AR23, and AR33 do not emit light.

[0157] When the display device DSP is in the second mode, as described above, Figure 22 the display elements DEa, DEb, and DEc shown emit light. Therefore, in the second mode, the first regions AR11, AR21, and AR31, the second regions AR12, AR22, and AR32, and the third regions AR13, AR23, and AR33 emit light.

[0158] Figure 24 is a top view showing Figure 23 an example of the layout of the partition wall 6 and the lenses ML1 and ML2 shown. In Figure 24 the example shown, the opening edge AE1 coincides with the lower electrode LE12 in a top view, and the opening edge AE2 coincides with the lower electrode LE13. In addition, the opening edge AE3 coincides with the lower electrode LE22 in a top view, and the opening edge AE4 coincides with the lower electrode LE23. Moreover, the opening edge AE5 coincides with the lower electrode LE32 in a top view, and the opening edge AE6 coincides with the lower electrode LE33.

[0159] InFigure 24 In the example shown, the center line MC1 is located between the lower electrodes LE12 and LE13 in the X direction and coincides with the lower electrode LE11 in a plan view. Further, the center line MC2 is located between the lower electrodes LE22 and LE23 and between the lower electrodes LE32 and LE33 in the X direction and coincides with the lower electrodes LE21 and LE31 in a plan view.

[0160] In Figure 24 In the example shown, the direction (X direction) in which the lower electrodes LE11, LE12, and LE13 are arranged is orthogonal to the center line MC1 of the lens ML1. Further, the direction (X direction) in which the lower electrodes LE21, LE22, and LE23 are arranged and the direction (X direction) in which the lower electrodes LE31, LE32, and LE33 are arranged are orthogonal to the center line MC2 of the lens ML2.

[0161] Figure 25 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of the display device DSP along the Figure 24 shown D-D' line. The lower electrode LE13 is disposed on the insulating layer 12. The organic layer OR1 passes through the opening A51 and contacts the lower electrode LE13. The region where the organic layer OR1 contacts the lower electrode LE13 corresponds to the third region AR13. The organic layer OR1 passes through the opening A51 between the lower electrodes LE11 and LE13 and between the lower electrodes LE12 and LE13 and contacts the insulating layer 12.

[0162] In the above example, the lower electrodes LE11, LE21, and LE31 correspond to the first lower electrode, the lower electrodes LE12, LE22, and LE32 correspond to the second lower electrode, and the lower electrodes LE13, LE23, and LE33 correspond to the third lower electrode.

[0163] Figure 26 is a diagram for explaining Figure 25 the operation of the lens ML1 shown. The light ray L1 emitted from the display element DE1a in the Z direction hardly refracts at the interface between the lens ML1 and air and travels in the Z direction. The light ray L2 emitted from the display element DE1b in the Z direction refracts at the interface between the lens ML1 and air and travels in a direction inclined from the Z direction toward the center line MC1 side (X1 direction side) of the lens ML1. The light ray L3 emitted from the display element DE1c in the Z direction refracts at the interface between the lens ML1 and air and travels in a direction inclined from the Z direction toward the center line MC1 side (X2 direction side) of the lens ML1.

[0164] That is, a user on the traveling direction side of the light ray L1 can visually confirm the light emitted from the display element DE1a, but can basically not visually confirm the light emitted from the display elements DE1b and DE1c. A user on the traveling direction side of the light ray L2 can visually confirm the light emitted from the display element DE1b, but can basically not visually confirm the light emitted from the display elements DE1a and DE1c. A user on the traveling direction side of the light ray L3 can visually confirm the light emitted from the display element DE1c, but can basically not visually confirm the light emitted from the display elements DE1a and DE1b.

[0165] When the display device DSP is in the first mode, the display element DE1a emits light, and the display elements DE1b and DE1c do not emit light. Therefore, a user on the traveling direction side of the light ray L1 can visually confirm the image displayed on the display device DSP well, but a user on the traveling direction side of the light rays L2 and L3 can basically not visually confirm the image. That is, in the first mode, the viewing angle of the display device DSP is restricted.

[0166] On the other hand, when the display device DSP is in the second mode, the display elements DE1a, DE1b, and DE1c emit light. Therefore, users on the traveling direction sides of the light rays L1, L2, and L3 can visually confirm the image well. That is, in the second mode, the viewing angle of the display device DSP becomes wider than that in the first mode. Therefore, by switching between the first mode and the second mode, the viewing angle of the display device DSP can be controlled.

[0167] As described above, based on the display device described as an embodiment of the present invention, all display devices that can be implemented by those skilled in the art by appropriately changing the design belong to the scope of the present invention as long as they include the gist of the present invention.

[0168] In the scope of the idea of the present invention, various modification examples can be conceived by those skilled in the art, and it should be understood that these modification examples also belong to the scope of the present invention. For example, modification examples obtained by those skilled in the art by appropriately adding, deleting, or changing the design of constituent elements, or by adding, omitting, or changing conditions of processes with respect to the above-described respective embodiments belong to the scope of the present invention as long as they have the gist of the present invention.

[0169] In addition, with respect to other effects brought about by the forms described in the above respective embodiments, those that can be clearly obtained from the description of this specification or can be appropriately conceived by those skilled in the art should of course be understood to be brought about by the present invention.

Claims

1. A display device, characterized in that, Comprising: a substrate; an insulating layer disposed above the substrate; a first lower electrode and a second lower electrode separated from each other, which are disposed on the insulating layer; a rib portion having a single pixel opening overlapping with the first lower electrode and the second lower electrode; a partition wall including a conductive lower portion disposed above the rib portion and an upper portion disposed above the lower portion and having an opening surrounded by an edge portion protruding from a side surface of the lower portion; an organic layer passing through the pixel opening and contacting the first lower electrode and the second lower electrode, and having a light-emitting layer; an upper electrode covering the organic layer and contacting the lower portion; and a lens formed in a convex shape protruding toward the side opposite to the substrate and overlapping with the opening, the organic layer passes through the pixel opening between the first lower electrode and the second lower electrode and contacts the insulating layer.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the organic layer has a first region contacting the first lower electrode and a second region contacting the second lower electrode, the display device comprises: a first mode for causing the first region to emit light; and a second mode for causing the first region and the second region to emit light.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein it further comprises: a driving transistor; a first display element including the first lower electrode, which is connected in series with the driving transistor; a second display element including the second lower electrode, which is connected in parallel with the first display element; and a switching element disposed between the driving transistor and the second display element, the switching element is configured to not conduct the driving transistor and the second lower electrode in the first mode and to conduct the driving transistor and the second lower electrode in the second mode.

4. The display device according to claim 2, wherein the first lower electrode is surrounded by the second lower electrode.

5. The display device according to claim 2, wherein the first lower electrode and the second lower electrode are arranged in one direction, the direction in which the first lower electrode and the second lower electrode are arranged intersects the center line of the lens.

6. The display device according to claim 2, wherein the first lower electrode and the second lower electrode are arranged in a first direction, the cross-sectional shape of the lens along the first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction is convex protruding toward the side opposite to the substrate.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein the principal point of the lens coincides with the first lower electrode in a top view.

8. The display device according to claim 3, wherein it further comprises a third lower electrode, the third lower electrode is disposed on the insulating layer, separated from the first lower electrode and the second lower electrode, and electrically connected to the second lower electrode, the pixel opening coincides with the third lower electrode, the first lower electrode is disposed between the second lower electrode and the third lower electrode, The organic layer passes through the pixel opening and contacts the third lower electrode, and contacts the insulating layer between the first lower electrode and the third lower electrode and between the second lower electrode and the third lower electrode.

9. The display device according to claim 8, wherein: The directions in which the first lower electrode, the second lower electrode, and the third lower electrode are arranged intersect the center line of the lens.

10. The display device according to claim 2 or 8, wherein: The center line of the lens coincides with the first lower electrode in a top view.

11. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The lens has a first lens edge and a second lens edge parallel to the center line of the lens, The first lens edge and the second lens edge coincide with the partition wall in a top view.

12. The display device according to claim 11, wherein: It further has a light-shielding layer that coincides with the first lens edge and the second lens edge in a top view.

13. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: It further includes: A cover layer disposed above the upper electrode; A first organic insulating layer disposed above the cover layer; A sealing layer disposed above the first organic insulating layer and formed of an inorganic material; And A second organic insulating layer disposed between the sealing layer and the lens, The second organic insulating layer is thicker than the first organic insulating layer.

14. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The lens is formed of a transparent resin material.

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