Light-emitting display device

Abstract

A light emitting display device may include a first insulating film at a first sub-pixel and a second sub-pixel adjacent to each other, the first insulating film having a plurality of recessed portions and a flat portion between adjacent recessed portions; a first electrode in the recessed portion of each of the first sub-pixel and the second sub-pixel; a dummy pattern on the flat portion of the first insulating film and spaced apart from the first electrode; a first electron blocking layer at the first sub-pixel and a second electron blocking layer at the second sub-pixel, the first electron blocking layer and the second electron blocking layer having edges on the dummy pattern and being spaced apart from each other; a first color light-emitting layer at the first sub-pixel, wherein the first color light-emitting layer covers the edge of the first electron blocking layer; a second color light emitting layer on the second electron blocking layer; and a second electrode on the first color light emitting layer and the second color light emitting layer.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit and priority of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0101852, filed on July 31, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes, as if fully set forth herein. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a display device, and more specifically, for example (without limitation), to a light-emitting display device capable of expanding the light-emitting portion through structural changes, while preventing poor visibility by providing a charge discharge path in an off state. Background Technology

[0004] With the emergence of the information society, the demand for various forms of display devices for displaying images is constantly increasing.

[0005] Light-emitting display devices that include light-emitting elements that make up pixels do not require separate light source units, thus offering advantages in thinness or flexibility, and excellent color purity.

[0006] For example, a light-emitting element includes two different electrodes and a light-emitting layer located between the electrodes. When electrons generated from one electrode and holes generated from the other electrode are injected into the light-emitting layer, the electrons and holes combine to form excitons, and the energy of the excitons decreases from the excited state to the ground state, thereby causing light emission.

[0007] Emitting light display devices use dikes to define the light-emitting portion of each subpixel, but have limited resolution because the area occupied by the dike does not emit light.

[0008] The description of related technologies should not be construed as prior art simply because they are mentioned or related in this section. The description of related technologies includes information describing one or more aspects of the subject matter, and the description in this section does not limit the scope of the invention. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Therefore, one or more aspects of the present invention aim to provide a light-emitting display device that substantially eliminates one or more problems caused by the limitations and disadvantages of related technologies.

[0010] One aspect of the present invention is to solve the limitation of the area of ​​the light-emitting part in a structure in which the light-emitting part is defined by a dam, and to expand the area of ​​the light-emitting part.

[0011] Another aspect of the present invention is to solve the screen dragging problem in the off state due to charge accumulation occurring in the electron blocking layer, wherein the electron blocking layer is configured to block electrons between the first electrode in the sub-pixel and the light-emitting layer.

[0012] Additional advantages, aspects, and features of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following, or may be learned from practice of the invention. The objects and other advantages of the invention may be realized and obtained by means of the structures specifically pointed out in the written description, its claims, and the accompanying drawings.

[0013] The light-emitting display device of the present invention can expand the light-emitting area by changing the insulating film structure that defines the light-emitting part. The light-emitting display device of the present invention can solve problems of poor visibility, such as screen dragging, by providing virtual patterns to generate charge discharge paths in the off state.

[0014] The light-emitting display device of the present invention can solve problems of poor visibility, such as screen dragging in the off state, by providing a virtual pattern on the insulating film structure to define the light-emitting part.

[0015] According to one aspect of the present invention, a light-emitting display device is provided, comprising: a first insulating film at adjacent first and second sub-pixels, the first insulating film having a plurality of recesses and a flat portion between adjacent recesses; a first electrode located in a recess of each of the first and second sub-pixels; a virtual pattern located on the flat portion of the first insulating film and spaced apart from the first electrode; a first electron blocking layer located at the first sub-pixel and a second electron blocking layer located at the second sub-pixel, the first electron blocking layer and the second electron blocking layer having edges on the virtual pattern and spaced apart from each other; a first color-emitting layer at the first sub-pixel covering the edge of the first electron blocking layer; a second color-emitting layer on the second electron blocking layer; and a second electrode on the first color-emitting layer and the second color-emitting layer.

[0016] It will be understood that the foregoing and hereinafter descriptions of the invention are exemplary and intended to provide further explanation of the claimed invention. Attached Figure Description

[0017] The accompanying drawings, which provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this application, illustrate various aspects and embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles and examples of the invention. In the drawings:

[0018] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram illustrating a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a plan view illustrating a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view taken from line I-I' in the diagram.

[0021] Figure 4 and Figure 5 These are diagrams. Figure 3 Cross-sectional views of the first and second embodiments of the structure of region A.

[0022] Figure 6 This is an energy band diagram of a light-emitting element within a light-emitting section according to one embodiment.

[0023] Figure 7 yes Figure 4 The band diagram between the virtual pattern of region B and the second electrode.

[0024] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the stacked structure of the light-emitting part and region B in the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 9 yes Figure 5 The band diagram between the virtual pattern of region C and the second electrode.

[0026] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the stacked structure of the light-emitting part and region C according to the second embodiment.

[0027] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the stacked structure of the light-emitting portion and the virtual pattern area of ​​a light-emitting display device according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 12 This is a plan view illustrating a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating a virtual pattern area according to another embodiment of the light-emitting display device of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 14 It is a graph showing the change in brightness over time in the first to third experimental cases when the screen is driven to black.

[0031] Throughout the accompanying drawings and detailed description, unless otherwise stated, the same reference numerals shall be understood to refer to the same elements, features, and structures. Dimensions, lengths, and thicknesses of layers, regions, and elements, and their depiction, may be exaggerated for clarity, illustration, and / or convenience. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Reference will now be made in detail to various embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar parts whenever possible. In the following description of the invention, detailed descriptions of known functions and constructions incorporated herein will be omitted where such descriptions would obscure the subject matter of the invention. Furthermore, the names of elements used in the following description have been chosen for clarity of description and may differ from the names of elements in actual products.

[0033] The shapes, dimensions, ratios, angles, quantities, etc., shown in the accompanying drawings to illustrate various exemplary embodiments of the invention are given by way of example only. The invention is not limited to what is shown in the drawings.

[0034] In this specification, where terms such as “comprising,” “having,” or “including” are used, one or more components may be added, unless a term such as “only” is used. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes a single associated listed item and any and all combinations of two or more associated listed items.

[0035] Expressions such as "at least one" preceding a list of elements may modify the entire list of elements, but may not modify any individual element in the list. The term "at least one" should be understood to include any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. For example, "at least one of the first, second, and third elements" means a combination of all three listed elements, a combination of any two of the three elements, and each individual element (the first, second, and third elements).

[0036] The terminology used herein is for describing specific aspects and is not intended to limit the invention. As used herein, terms used to describe elements in the singular are intended to include multiple elements. Elements described in the singular are intended to include multiple elements, and vice versa, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. For example, an element may be one or more elements. An element may include multiple elements. The term "exemplary" is used to indicate that it is used as an example or illustration. An implementation is an exemplary implementation. An aspect is an exemplary aspect. In one or more implementations, "implementation," "example," "aspect," etc., should not be construed as being superior or advantageous over other implementations. Implementation, example, exemplary implementation, aspect, etc., may refer to one or more implementations, one or more examples, one or more exemplary implementations, one or more aspects, etc., unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, the term "may" covers the full meaning of the term "can."

[0037] When interpreting components or values, components or values ​​will be interpreted as including a range of errors or tolerances, even if no explicit description of such a range of errors or tolerances is provided.

[0038] In describing various exemplary embodiments of the invention, where terms such as “on,” “above,” “below,” and “beside” are used to describe the positional relationship between two elements, at least one intermediate element may be present between the two elements unless “immediately,” “directly,” or “immediately following” is used. It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “connected to” or “joined to” another element or layer, it may be directly connected to or joined to the other element or layer, or one or more intermediate elements or layers may be present.

[0039] In describing various exemplary embodiments of the invention, when using terms such as “after,” “following,” “next,” and “before” to describe the temporal relationship between two events, another event may occur in between, unless more restrictive terms such as “exactly,” “immediately,” or “directly” are used.

[0040] In describing various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, terms such as "first" and "second" may be used to describe various components. These terms are intended to distinguish identical or similar components from one another and do not limit the scope of the components. Therefore, throughout the specification, unless specifically mentioned otherwise, a "first" component may be the same as a "second" component within the scope of the inventive concept.

[0041] Features of the various embodiments of the present invention may be partially or entirely combined with each other, and may be technically interoperable and driven with each other in various ways, as will be fully understood by those skilled in the art. Embodiments of the present invention may be implemented independently of each other, or may be implemented together in an interdependent relationship.

[0042] As used herein, the terms “LUMO (lowest unoccupied molecular orbital) level” and “HOMO (highest occupied molecular orbital) level” for a layer refer to the LUMO and HOMO levels of the material occupying a majority of the weight of the layer (e.g., the matrix material), unless the context clearly indicates that the LUMO and HOMO levels refer to the LUMO and HOMO levels of the dopant material to which the layer is doped, respectively.

[0043] Here, the HOMO energy level is obtained by measuring the voltage corresponding to the first peak (at which electrons discharge from the target material via cyclic voltammetry (CV)) while comparing it with a reference material whose HOMO energy level is known.

[0044] As used herein, the term "doped" layer refers to a layer comprising a first material and a second material (e.g., n-type and p-type materials, or organic and inorganic substances) having physical properties different from those of the first material. In addition to the difference in properties, the amounts of the first and second materials in the doped layer may also differ. For example, the matrix material may be the dominant component, while the dopant material may be the minor component. The first material constitutes the majority of the weight of the doped layer. Based on the total weight of the first material in the doped layer, the second material may be added in an amount less than 30% by weight. Considering the weight ratio, a "doped" layer can be a layer used to distinguish the matrix material from the dopant material of a given layer. For example, if all the materials constituting a layer are organic materials, and at least one of the materials constituting the layer is n-type and another is p-type, then the layer is considered a "doped" layer when the n-type material is present in an amount less than 30 wt%, or when the p-type material is present in an amount less than 30 wt%.

[0045] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] like Figure 1 As shown, the light-emitting display device 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a display panel 11, an image processor 12, a timing controller 13, a data driver 14, a scan driver 15, and a power supply 16.

[0047] Display panel 11 displays images in response to data signals DATA supplied from data driver 14, scan signals supplied from scan driver 15, and power supplied from power supply 16.

[0048] The display panel 11 may include sub-pixels SP disposed at each intersection of multiple gate lines GL and multiple data lines DL. The structure of the sub-pixels SP may vary depending on the type of the light-emitting display device 1000.

[0049] For example, a subpixel SP can be formed using a top-emitting method, a bottom-emitting method, or a dual-sided emitting method, depending on its structure. A subpixel SP is a unit that can emit light of its own color with or without a specific type of color filter. For example, a subpixel SP may include red subpixels, green subpixels, and blue subpixels. Optionally, a subpixel SP may include, for example, red subpixels, blue subpixels, white subpixels, and green subpixels. Depending on its light-emitting characteristics, a subpixel SP may have one or more different light-emitting parts. For example, a blue subpixel and a subpixel emitting light of a different color may have different light-emitting parts.

[0050] One or more sub-pixels SP can constitute a unit pixel. For example, a unit pixel may include red, green, and blue sub-pixels, and these sub-pixels may be repeated. Optionally, a unit pixel may include red, green, blue, and white sub-pixels, and these sub-pixels may be repeated, or they may be arranged in a quadrilateral. In embodiments of the present invention, the color type, arrangement type, arrangement order, etc., of the sub-pixels may be determined based on the light-emitting characteristics, the lifespan of the device, the device specifications, etc., and are not limited thereto.

[0051] The display panel 11 can be divided into: an active area (AA: within the dashed area), in which sub-pixels SP are disposed to display images; and a non-active area NA surrounding the active area NA. A scan driver 15 can be installed in the non-active area NA of the display panel 11. Furthermore, the non-active area NA may include pad portions, which include pad electrodes PD.

[0052] Here, the active area AA is also called the "display area", and the non-active area NA is also called the "non-display area".

[0053] In addition to the externally provided data signal DATA, the image processor 12 may also output a data enable signal DE. Besides the data enable signal DE, the image processor 12 may also output one or more of a vertical synchronization signal, a horizontal synchronization signal, and a clock signal; however, these signals are omitted for ease of description.

[0054] In addition to the drive signals from the image processor 12, the timing controller 13 may also receive data signals DATA. The drive signals may include a data enable signal DE. Additionally, the drive signals may include a vertical synchronization signal, a horizontal synchronization signal, and a clock signal. The timing controller 13 may generate, based on the drive signals, a data timing control signal DDC for controlling the operating timing of the data driver 14 and a gate timing control signal GDC for controlling the operating timing of the scan driver 15.

[0055] The data driver 14 samples and latches the data signal DATA provided by the timing controller 13 in response to the data timing control signal DDC provided by the timing controller 13, converts the obtained data signal DATA into a gamma reference voltage, and outputs the gamma reference voltage.

[0056] Data driver 14 can output data signal DATA via data line DL. Data driver 14 can be configured as an integrated circuit IC. For example, data driver 14 can be electrically connected via a flexible circuit film (not shown) to a pad electrode PD disposed in the non-active area NA of the display panel 11.

[0057] The scan driver 15 can output a scan signal in response to the gate timing control signal GDC supplied from the timing controller 13. The scan driver 15 can output the scan signal through the gate line GL. The scan driver 15 can be implemented in the form of an integrated circuit IC, or it can be implemented in the display panel 11 in the form of a gate in the in-panel gate GIP.

[0058] The power supply 16 can output high-potential voltage and low-potential voltage for driving the display panel 11. The power supply 16 can supply high-potential voltage to the display panel 11 through the first power line EVDD (drive power line or pixel power line) and supply low-potential voltage to the display panel 11 through the second power line EVSS (auxiliary power line or common power line).

[0059] The display panel 11 is divided into an active area AA and an inactive area NA, and includes a plurality of sub-pixels SP defined in the display area AA by gate lines GL and data lines DL that intersect each other to form a matrix.

[0060] Subpixels SP may include light-emitting subpixels that emit at least two of the following: red, green, blue, yellow, magenta, and cyan. Additionally, subpixels SP may emit light of their own color with or without a specific type of color filter, but the invention is not limited thereto. The color type, arrangement type, and arrangement order of the subpixels SP can be determined based on the light-emitting characteristics, the lifespan of the device, and the device specifications.

[0061] Each subpixel SP may include a light-emitting part that emits light and a non-light-emitting part surrounding the light-emitting part.

[0062] Figure 2 This is a plan view illustrating a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view taken from line I-I' in the diagram.

[0063] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, a light-emitting display device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes: a first insulating film 178 at a first sub-pixel GSP and a second sub-pixel RSP; a first electrode 150; a virtual pattern 152 spaced apart from the first electrode 150 above the first insulating film 178; a first electron blocking layer EBL1 located at the first sub-pixel GSP; a second electron blocking layer EBL2 located at the second sub-pixel RSP; a first color emitting layer GEML at the first sub-pixel; a second color emitting layer REML on the second electron blocking layer EBL2; and a second electrode 160 on the first color emitting layer GEML and the second color emitting layer REML. The second color emitting layer REML can emit light with a wavelength longer than that of the first color emitting layer GEML.

[0064] The first insulating film 178 has a recessed portion 178R and a flat portion 178PA. The recessed portion 178R of the first insulating film 178 is disposed at each of the first sub-pixel GSP and the second sub-pixel RSP. The flat portion 178PA of the first insulating film 178 is disposed between adjacent recessed portions 178R.

[0065] The first electrode 150 is disposed in the recess 178R of each of the first sub-pixel GSP and the second sub-pixel RSP.

[0066] Virtual pattern 152 is set on the flat portion 178PA of the first insulating film.

[0067] Each of the first electron blocking layer EBL1 and the second electron blocking layer EBL2 has an edge on the virtual pattern 152. The first electron blocking layer EBL1 and the second electron blocking layer EBL2 may be spaced apart from each other on the virtual pattern 152. The first electron blocking layer EBL1 and the second electron blocking layer EBL2 may be respectively disposed at the first sub-pixel GSP and the second sub-pixel RSP.

[0068] The first color emitting layer GEML can cover the edge of the first electron blocking layer EBL1.

[0069] The light-emitting element ED, which emits predetermined light at each sub-pixel GSP, RSP, and BSP, includes a first electrode 150, an intermediate layer OL, and a second electrode 160. The first electrode 150 is disposed in each sub-pixel GSP, RSP, and BSP, and is spaced apart from another first electrode 150 in an adjacent sub-pixel, such as... Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown.

[0070] The first sub-pixel GSP emits green light, the second sub-pixel RSP emits red light, and the third sub-pixel BSP emits blue light. Figure 2The embodiment illustrated shows an example in which a virtual pattern 152 is provided around the first sub-pixel GSP emitting green light, but virtual patterns can also be provided around other sub-pixels RSP and BSP. Additionally, although... Figure 2 The illustrated embodiment shows an example in which green, red, and blue sub-pixels are configured as first to third sub-pixels; however, the light-emitting display device of the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. In addition to green, red, and blue sub-pixels, a light-emitting display device according to one embodiment of the present invention may also include sub-pixels that emit light of other colors. For example, a light-emitting display device according to one embodiment of the present invention may also include white sub-pixels. Optionally, a light-emitting display device according to another embodiment of the present invention may include a combination of color sub-pixels different from the combination of green, red, and blue sub-pixels.

[0071] Emitting green light refers to emission with a peak wavelength of, for example, 500 nm to 590 nm; emitting red light refers to emission with a peak wavelength of 600 nm to 650 nm; and emitting blue light refers to emission with a peak wavelength of 410 nm to 490 nm.

[0072] The light-emitting part GEM, REM, or BEM of each sub-pixel GSP, RSP, or BSP can be a region that includes a first light-emitting part GA, RA, or BA and a second light-emitting part GB, RB, or BB.

[0073] Compared to a structure in which the light-emitting portion is defined by a region of a pixel-defined film, the light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention can increase light emission by utilizing side light from the second light-emitting portion GB, RB, or BB at each sub-pixel, thereby improving light emission efficiency.

[0074] The first electrode 150 can be independently disposed at each sub-pixel GSP, RSP, or BSP. To independently drive the light-emitting element of each sub-pixel GSP, RSP, or BSP, the first electrodes 150 of adjacent sub-pixels can be spaced apart from each other. A virtual pattern 152 formed of the same material as the first electrode 150 is disposed on the flat portion 178PA of the first insulating film 178. The virtual pattern 152 can be spaced apart from each of the first electrodes 150 of the adjacent first sub-pixel GSP and second sub-pixel RSP.

[0075] The first electrode 150 may include a reflective electrode. A first electrode 150 is provided for each sub-pixel, and the first electrode 150 is also referred to as a "pixel electrode". The first electrode 150, a second electrode 160 facing the first electrode 150, and an intermediate layer disposed between the first electrode 150 and the second electrode 160 constitute a light-emitting element ED. One of the first electrode 150 and the second electrode 160 may be an anode, and the other may be a cathode.

[0076] The first electrode 150 may be provided with a multilayer structure of reflective electrodes and transparent electrodes. For example, the first electrode 150 may be formed as a stacked structure of a first transparent electrode layer / reflective electrode layer / second transparent electrode layer, or may include at least one reflective electrode layer and at least one transparent electrode layer. The reflective electrode layer comprises a metal or metal alloy with high reflectivity. For example, the reflective electrode layer may be formed as a single layer or multiple layers, comprising any one of the group consisting of silver (Ag), gold (Au), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), molybdenum (Mo), palladium (Pd), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), and tungsten (W), and alloys thereof. The transparent electrode layer may be formed as at least one of tin oxide (TO), zinc oxide (ZO), indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), and indium tin zinc oxide (ITZO). Furthermore, when the first electrode 150 includes multiple reflective electrode layers, the multiple reflective electrode layers may contain the same metal. Optionally, the reflective electrode layer may include a shielding metal or metal alloy in at least one reflective electrode layer to block hydrogen or outgass generated in the insulating films INL and PLN disposed on the substrate 100. Furthermore, when the first electrode 150 includes multiple transparent electrode layers, the multiple transparent electrode layers may include the same metal oxide. Optionally, the multiple transparent electrode layers may include a shielding metal or metal alloy in at least one of the transparent electrode layers to block hydrogen or outgass generated in the insulating films INL and PLN disposed on the substrate 100.

[0077] The recess 178R of the first insulating film 178 (which is the forming surface of the first electrode 150) has a flat bottom surface 178A disposed at the bottom and a side surface 178B that gradually widens towards the top. In this case, the interior angle formed by the first insulating film 178 and the side surface 178B of the recess 178R of the first insulating film 178 can be 90° or less. Preferably, the interior angle formed by the side surface 178B of the recess 178R and the first insulating film 178 can be 15° to 80°. The bottom surface 178A of the recess 178R can be disposed within the first insulating film 178; or, as Figure 3As shown, the entire thickness of the first insulating film 178 can be removed from the bottom surface 178A corresponding to the recess 178R, thereby exposing the top surface of the second insulating film 176 disposed below the first insulating film 178. The top surface of the first insulating film 178 can be a flat portion 178PA.

[0078] In some cases, the first insulating film 178 and the second insulating film 176 may be integrally formed. When the bottom surface 178A of the recess is disposed within the first insulating film 178, the second insulating film 176 located below the bottom surface 178A of the recess 178R may not be exposed, and the recess 178R may be disposed at a predetermined depth from the top surface of the first insulating film 178. In this case, the bottom surface 178A of the recess may have a predetermined thickness on the top surface of the second insulating film 176, and the predetermined thickness of the bottom surface 178A of the recess on the top surface of the second insulating film 176 may be less than the thickness of the flat portion 178PA of the first insulating film 178.

[0079] The first electrode 150 may be formed not only on the bottom surface 178A of the recess 178R but also on the side surface 178B, and may have the following shape: the first electrode 150 disposed on the flat bottom surface 178A extends to the side surface 178B, which has a predetermined inclination relative to the surface of the substrate 100. The first electrode 150 may be disposed at each of the first and second sub-pixels, along the bottom surface 178A of the recess 178R and around the side surface 178B of the bottom surface 178A of the recess 178R. As another example, the first electrode 150 is not limited to extending to the side surface 178B; it may further extend from the side surface 178B of the recess 178R to the flat portion 178PA of the further outwardly disposed first insulating film 178, such as... Figure 3 As shown.

[0080] The first insulating film 178 may be formed of an organic insulating material. The first insulating film 178 may be a planarization film. The first insulating film 178 may include an overcoat material. For example, the first insulating film 178 may include at least one of a phenolic polymer, an acrylic polymer, an imide polymer, an aryl ether polymer, a fluoropolymer, a p-xylene polymer, a vinyl alcohol polymer, and a styrene polymer. The first insulating film 178 may have a recess 178R and a planar portion 178PA located between the recesses 178R, the planar portion 178PA having a vertical height greater than the bottom surface 178A of the recesses to uniformly form the light-emitting element ED on its upper surface. The recesses 178R of the first insulating film 178 include a flat bottom surface 178A and side surfaces 178B, each side surface having a predetermined taper at each sub-pixel GSP and RSP. Other materials may be used to provide the first insulating film 178, as long as they maintain organic insulating properties.

[0081] Meanwhile, the first electrode 150 is disposed on the surface of the first insulating film 178, and the first insulating film 178 is not limited to transparent or opaque materials. When the first electrode 150 includes a reflective electrode, the light generated in the intermediate layer OL can be reflected by the first electrode 150 and emitted upward through the second electrode 160.

[0082] like Figure 3 As shown, the second insulating film 176 may be disposed on the lower side of the first insulating film 178 to cover and protect the connection electrode 140 of the first electrode 150 and the lower thin-film transistor TFT.

[0083] The light-emitting display device may also include a third insulating film 175 for protecting the upper part of the thin-film transistor TFT located below the second insulating film 176.

[0084] The light-emitting display device may also include a fourth insulating film 179, which protects the upper surface of the first electrode 150 formed along the bottom surface 178A and side surface 178B of the recess 178R of the first insulating film 178, and overlaps with the flat portion 178PA of the first insulating film 178, the side surface 178B of the recess 178R, and a portion of the bottom surface 178A extending from the side surface 178B, to ensure stability at the interface with the subsequently formed intermediate layer OL.

[0085] The fourth insulating film 179 can be used to cover and protect the upper surface of the first electrode 150 disposed along the surface of the recess 178R of the first insulating film 178. The fourth insulating film 179 can be opened. Figure 2Each sub-pixel GSP, RSP, or BSP shown has a first light-emitting part GA, RA, or BA and a virtual pattern 152, and may overlap with a second light-emitting part GB, RB, or BB.

[0086] The fourth insulating film 179 overlaps with the first electrode 150 of the second light-emitting portion GB, RB, or BB, which reflects light, and can be formed of a material with excellent light transmittance to transmit light from the first electrode 150. The fourth insulating film 179 can be a transparent insulating material or a colored pigment material. When the fourth insulating film 179 is a transparent insulating material, the transparent insulating material is not limited to inorganic or organic materials. The refractive index of the fourth insulating film 179 can be equal to or similar to the average refractive index of the intermediate layer OL. When the fourth insulating film 179 is a colored pigment material, the color of the direct light emitted upward from the first electrode 150 disposed in the first light-emitting portion GA, RA, or BA can be similar to the color of the side light emitted from the first electrode 150 disposed on the side surface of the recess 178R overlapping with the second light-emitting portion GB, RB, or BB.

[0087] Compared to the first insulating film 178, which includes a recess 178R of a predetermined depth, the fourth insulating film 179 can be very thin to increase the transmittance of light emitted from the first electrode 150. The thickness of the fourth insulating film 179 can be 1 / 10 to 1 / 2 or less of the thickness of the first insulating film 178. For example, when the thickness of the first insulating film 178 is 1 μm to 3 μm, the thickness of the fourth insulating film 179 can be 0.05 μm to 0.5 μm.

[0088] In some cases, the fourth insulating film 179 may completely expose the virtual pattern 152, or overlap with a portion of the edge of the virtual pattern 152. In all cases, in the light-emitting display device of the embodiments of the present invention, the virtual pattern 152 may directly contact the lower surface of the intermediate layer OL. The virtual pattern 152 may be in a floating state.

[0089] The first to fourth insulating films 178, 176, 175, and 179 are used to planarize the surface on which the light-emitting element (ED) is formed; this is also known as the "planarization film structure PLN".

[0090] The second insulating film 176 and the third insulating film 175 may comprise organic insulating films and / or inorganic insulating films. Preferably, the second insulating film 176 and the third insulating film 175 comprise materials with excellent flatness. The second insulating film 176 and the third insulating film 175 may comprise the same material as the first insulating film 178.

[0091] The virtual pattern 152 is preferably disposed on the flat portion 178PA of the first insulating film 178 to stabilize the interface characteristics with the intermediate layer OL disposed above it. That is, the virtual pattern 152 can release the charge accumulated in some layers of the intermediate layer OL when the light-emitting element ED of the sub-pixel is off. In the light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the first electrode 150 and the virtual pattern 152 can be formed using the same material in the same process. The virtual pattern 152 can be disposed on the flat portion 178PA of the upper part of the first insulating film 178, and can stabilize and maintain the flatness of the formation surfaces of the first electron blocking layer EBL1 and the second electron blocking layer EBL2, and each of the first color light-emitting layer GEML and the second color light-emitting layer REML overlaps with the virtual pattern 152. When the virtual pattern 152 is disposed on the flat portion 178PA of the upper part of the first insulating film 178, sharp steps or short circuits in the intermediate layer OL on the virtual pattern 152 can be prevented.

[0092] A fourth insulating film 179, thinner than the first insulating film 178, is disposed around the virtual pattern 152. The edge portions of the first electron blocking layer EBL1, the second electron blocking layer EBL2, the first color emitting layer GEML, and the second color emitting layer REML are disposed along the planar surface of the flat virtual pattern 152 within the open area of ​​the fourth insulating film 179, thereby facilitating the formation of an off-state charge discharge structure, and ensuring that the charge discharge path remains short-circuited to maintain the charge emission effect. The virtual pattern 152 can serve as a charge emission source for releasing charge from the first electron blocking layer EBL1 on the virtual pattern 152.

[0093] The virtual pattern 152 has the same vertical phase as the vertical phase of the flat portion of the upper part of the first insulating film 178, which is the same as the vertical phase of the first electrode 150 in the non-light-emitting portion, and is spaced apart from the first electrode 150 for driving independently of the first electrode 150. In the off state of the first sub-pixel, the virtual pattern 152 may have a different potential than the first electrode 150 at the first sub-pixel.

[0094] At the same time, such as Figure 2 As shown, in a light-emitting display device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the virtual pattern 152 may be spaced apart from the edge of the light-emitting portion of the first sub-pixel, and may be configured as a plurality of island-shaped portions spaced apart from the light-emitting portion of the first sub-pixel. The virtual pattern 152 may be arranged along the length direction of the light-emitting portion of the first sub-pixel.

[0095] like Figure 3As shown, the intermediate layer OL may include a first common layer CML1, a color emitting layer (EML: GEML, REML, BEML), and a second common layer CML2 at each sub-pixel GSP, RSP, and BSP. Figure 3 and 4 In this embodiment, the first common layer CML1 may be disposed on the virtual pattern 152. The edges of the first electron blocking layer EBL1, the second electron blocking layer EBL2, the first color emitting layer GEML, and the second color emitting layer REML may be disposed on the first common layer CML1.

[0096] The first common layer CML1 may include multiple layers associated with hole injection and hole transport. For example, the first common layer CML1 may include a hole injection layer HIL and a hole transport layer HTL. Each or any of the hole injection layer and the hole transport layer may include multiple layers. When each or any of the hole injection layer and the hole transport layer includes multiple layers, each layer may individually comprise a different single material. Alternatively, when each or any of the hole injection layer and the hole transport layer includes multiple layers, some layers may comprise a single material, and other layers may comprise a mixture comprising multiple materials. In addition to the first common layer CML1, a hole transport auxiliary layer GHTL or RHTL (see [link to documentation]) may be included to assist hole transport. Figure 10 At least one of the hole injection layer (HIL) and the electron blocking layer (EBL) may be included between the first electrode 150 and the color emissive layer (EML: GEML, REML, BEML), and a hole transport assist layer (GHTL) or RHTL and an electron blocking layer (EBL) may be provided for the corresponding sub-pixel. The hole transport assist layer (GHTL) or RHTL may be disposed between the hole injection layer (HIL) and the color emissive layer (EML: GEML, REML, BEML), and when the first common layer (CML1) has multiple layers, the hole transport assist layer (GHTL) or RHTL may be inserted between the multiple layers. For example, the first transport assist layer may overlap with the first color emissive layer and be disposed between the first electrode and the first electron blocking layer, and the second transport assist layer may overlap with the second color emissive layer and be disposed between the first electrode and the second electron blocking layer.

[0097] The second common layer CML2 may include at least one layer associated with electron transport and electron injection. For example, the second common layer CML2 may include at least one of a hole blocking layer HBL, an electron transport layer ETL, and an electron injection layer EIL. Each or at least one of the hole blocking layer, electron transport layer, and electron injection layer may include multiple layers. When each or at least one of the hole blocking layer, electron transport layer, and electron injection layer includes multiple layers, these layers may each include a different single material. Optionally, when each or at least one of the hole blocking layer, electron transport layer, and electron injection layer includes multiple layers, some layers may be provided by including a single material, and other layers may include a mixture of multiple materials. In addition to the second common layer CML2, an electron transport auxiliary layer for assisting electron transport may be further included between the color emitting layer (EML: GEML, REML, BEML) and the second electrode 160, and the electron transport auxiliary layer may be provided separately for each sub-pixel. When the second common layer CML2 includes multiple layers, the electron transport auxiliary layer may be inserted between the multiple layers.

[0098] The first common layer CML1 and the second common layer CML2 are jointly provided to the sub-pixels GSP, RSP, and BSP, and can be continuously formed between the sub-pixels GSP, RSP, and BSP. In a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, each of the first to third sub-pixels GSP, RSP, and BSP may jointly have the first common layer CML1 and the second common layer CML2.

[0099] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the hole transport auxiliary layer and the electron transport auxiliary layer may have different thicknesses depending on the different microcavities required by the respective sub-pixels.

[0100] An electron blocking layer is used to prevent electrons or excitons from transferring from each color emitting layer to the adjacent hole transport layer. Because the HOMO energy level difference caused by the material difference between the color emitting layer and the electron blocking layer can be different for the corresponding sub-pixels, and because the matrix and dopants contained in the color emitting layer can have different charge transfer rates, the electron blocking layer according to one embodiment of the invention can have different thicknesses for the corresponding sub-pixels.

[0101] like Figure 3 As shown, the intermediate layer OL of the first sub-pixel GSP may have a stacked structure of a first common layer CML1, a first electron blocking layer EBL1, a first color emitting layer GEML, and a second common layer CML2. For example, the first common layer CML1 may include a hole injection layer and a hole transport layer; for example, the second common layer CML2 may include a hole blocking layer, an electron transport layer, and an electron injection layer. In addition, the intermediate layer OL may also include a hole transport auxiliary layer and the first electron blocking layer EBL1 located between the hole transport layer and the first color emitting layer GEML.

[0102] The first to third sub-pixels, GSP, RSP, and BSP, emit light of different colors and may have optical compensation layers of different thicknesses to adjust the optical distance related to the constructive interference for resonance between the first electrode 150 and the second electrode 160 according to the wavelength of the emitted color of each sub-pixel. For example, the optical compensation layer may be disposed in the intermediate layer OL, but may be configured as at least one of a hole transport auxiliary layer and an electron transport auxiliary layer to adjust the vertical phase on the colored emitting layer in the intermediate layer OL. One of the hole transport auxiliary layer and the electron transport auxiliary layer may be omitted from the light-emitting element.

[0103] Furthermore, the hole transport auxiliary layer and the electron transport auxiliary layer can have a thickness related to the wavelength of light emitted from each sub-pixel, and therefore can be set with different thicknesses in the first to third sub-pixels GSP, RSP, and BSP. In some cases, the hole transport auxiliary layer and the electron transport auxiliary layer can be omitted only in sub-pixels of a specific color. For example, the hole transport auxiliary layer and the electron transport auxiliary layer can be set in the first sub-pixel GSP and the second sub-pixel RSP, and omitted from the third sub-pixel BSP.

[0104] A hole transport auxiliary layer can be disposed between, for example, the hole transport layer and the colored light-emitting layer of the first common layer CML1.

[0105] An electron transport auxiliary layer can be disposed between, for example, the electron transport layer and the colored light-emitting layer of the second common layer CML2.

[0106] Each subpixel may also include an electron blocking layer EBL1 or EBL2 between the color emissive layer and the hole transport auxiliary layer to prevent electrons or excitons from escaping from the color emissive layer in the direction toward the hole transport layer, and to allow electrons and excitons to contribute to luminescence within the color emissive layer.

[0107] Furthermore, a hole blocking layer (HBL) can be further disposed between the color emitting layer and the electron transport layer to prevent holes from escaping from the color emitting layer in the direction toward the electron transport layer, and to allow holes and excitons to promote luminescence within the color emitting layer.

[0108] The electron blocking layer and the hole blocking layer can be set on the side closest to the colored light-emitting layer and the other side, respectively. In some cases, the hole blocking layer can be omitted.

[0109] In a light-emitting element (ED), a second electrode 160 is commonly disposed in multiple sub-pixels GSP, RSP, and BSP located on a substrate 100, and may be referred to as a "common electrode". The second electrode 160 may be larger than... Figure 1The active region AA is disposed on the substrate 100. The second electrode 160 can be a transparent electrode or a semi-transparent electrode. For example, when the second electrode 160 is a transparent electrode, it may comprise a transparent metal oxide, such as ITO, IZO, or ITZO. When the second electrode 160 is a semi-transparent electrode, a metal or metal alloy such as Ag, Mg, or Yb is formed to have... or smaller, preferably Or a thinner or smaller thickness, so that there is resonance within the light-emitting element ED and light transmittance through the second electrode 160.

[0110] In an embodiment of the present invention, the first electron blocking layer EBL1 disposed in the first sub-pixel GSP may have the following structural characteristics: it has an edge disposed inward from the edge of the first color emitting layer GEML, and therefore has a smaller area overlapping with the virtual pattern 152 compared to the first color emitting layer GEML.

[0111] The first sub-pixel, GSP, emits green light and, compared to the second sub-pixel, RSP, and the third sub-pixel, BSP, which emit red and other colors of light, exhibits higher relative efficiency in terms of brightness performance in a light-emitting display device. Therefore, as... Figure 2 As shown, the first sub-pixel GSP can have a higher arrangement ratio than the second sub-pixel RSP and the third sub-pixel BSP.

[0112] In a light-emitting display device, when the relative efficiency of the first sub-pixel gas phosphor (GSP) is higher than that of other color sub-pixels, the luminance dependency of the first sub-pixel GSP is higher. Therefore, in order to control the luminance sensitivity of the light-emitting element in the first sub-pixel GSP, a first electron blocking layer EBL1 with a lower (deeper) HOMO energy level than the horizontally adjacent sub-pixels is provided. This adjusts the threshold voltage Vth of the light-emitting element required to switch from the off state to the on state to a predetermined level or higher, thereby controlling the capacitance of the light-emitting element of the first sub-pixel GSP.

[0113] Therefore, the first sub-pixel GSP may have a first electron blocking layer EBL1 with a low (deep) HOMO level to control the threshold voltage Vth of the on-state of the light-emitting element and the capacitance of the light-emitting element. Simultaneously, the charge accumulated in the light-emitting element during the switch from the on-state to the off-state needs to be rapidly discharged to clearly represent the black of the off-state. However, during the charge discharge process, the HOMO level of the first electron blocking layer EBL1 between the first color light-emitting layer GEML and the first electrode 150 is very low, thus there is a high probability that holes moving from the first color light-emitting layer GEML to the first electrode 150 are trapped at the interface between the first electron blocking layer and the first color light-emitting layer. This means that a normal black is not immediately represented after switching to the off-state.

[0114] Thus, for example, when a specific area of ​​the light-emitting display device is observed as gray and another area around that specific area is observed as black, due to holes trapped in the first electron blocking layer, an area that should be displayed as black may be observed as gray in the previous frame during the transition from one area to another. This phenomenon is known as "screen drag." In particular, the large difference in HOMO energy levels between the first electron blocking layer and the first color emitting layer, which have lower HOMO energy levels, causes holes accumulated at the interface between the first electron blocking layer and the first color emitting layer to not be discharged or to be discharged with delayed discharge in the off state, resulting in an operational delay of the light-emitting element.

[0115] Structurally, in the layer between the first electrode 150 and the first color emitting layer GEML in the first sub-pixel GSP, the first electron blocking layer EBL1 has the lowest HOMO energy level.

[0116] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a light-emitting display device has a virtual pattern 152 disposed on a flat portion 178PA of a first insulating film 178 surrounding a first sub-pixel GSP, and has a configuration in which the edge of the first color emitting layer GEML protrudes beyond the edge of the first electron blocking layer EBL1 on the virtual pattern 152, such that the overlap area of ​​the first color emitting layer GEML and the virtual pattern 152 is larger than the overlap area of ​​the first electron blocking layer EBL1 and the virtual pattern 152. Therefore, a direct vertical discharge path for holes is formed between the first common layer CML1 and the first color emitting layer GEML on the virtual pattern 152. Here, the first common layer CML1 has a higher HOMO energy level than the first electron blocking layer EBL1. That is, there is a HOMO energy level difference between the first color emitting layer GEML and the first common layer CML1 on the virtual pattern 152, which is smaller than the HOMO energy level difference between the first color emitting layer GEML and the first electron blocking layer EBL1. That is, in the light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, during the switching from the on state to the off state, a direct discharge path for holes is formed from the first color light-emitting layer GEML via the first common layer CML1 toward the virtual pattern 152. Furthermore, in the off state, the difference between the HOMO energy levels at each interface is reduced in the path from the first color light-emitting layer GEML to the virtual pattern 152 to facilitate charge passage, thereby preventing delays in charge discharge time and poor visibility such as screen drag.

[0117] In embodiments of the present invention, the first electron blocking layer EBL1 and the first color emitting layer GEM1 can be formed with different edges by using different deposition masks. Therefore, the second sub-pixel RSP having a virtual pattern 152 between it and the first sub-pixel GSP may include a second electron blocking layer EBL2 spaced apart from the first electron blocking layer EBL1. The first electron blocking layer EBL1 and the second electron blocking layer EBL2 may be located in the same layer and spaced apart from each other. The first electron blocking layer EBL1 and the second electron blocking layer EBL2 may be formed in a region defined by the same deposition mask.

[0118] Here, a second color emitting layer REML can be provided on the virtual pattern 152 around the second sub-pixel RSP to cover the edge of the second electron blocking layer EBL2. In this case, an interface is formed at the edge of the second color emitting layer REML that directly contacts the first common layer CML1 without the second electron blocking layer EBL2, so that the interface can be reduced on the charge discharge path and the energy barrier can be reduced at the charge discharge interface.

[0119] Meanwhile, the third sub-pixel BSP may have a third electron blocking layer at a position spaced apart from the first electron blocking layer EBL1 of the first sub-pixel GSP and the second electron blocking layer EBL2 of the second sub-pixel RSP, or may have an electron blocking layer extending horizontally from the first electron blocking layer EBL1 or the second electron blocking layer EBL2.

[0120] In an embodiment of the present invention, the first electron blocking layer EBL1 and the second electron blocking layer EBL2 are characterized in that they are spaced apart from each other on the virtual pattern 152, and the first color emitting layer GEML directly contacts the first common layer CML1 on its underside through the area of ​​the first electron blocking layer EBL1 or the second electron blocking layer EBL2.

[0121] The colored light-emitting layers GEML, REML, and BEML of each light-emitting unit GEM, REM, and BEM can be adjacent to the hole transport layer in the first common layer CML1.

[0122] When each sub-pixel (GSP, RSP, BSP) has a separate electron blocking layer, the electron blocking layer and hole transport auxiliary layer of each sub-pixel can be patterned using the same deposition mask. In this case, the electron blocking layer and hole transport auxiliary layer at each sub-pixel can have the same edges. Patterning the hole transport auxiliary layer and electron blocking layer using the same deposition mask has the advantage of reducing the number of deposition masks with micro-apertures during the formation of the intermediate OL layer of the light-emitting element. The hole transport auxiliary layer and electron blocking layer can each comprise a hole transport material, but can be formed from different materials.

[0123] Meanwhile, in the light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the first electron blocking layer EBL1 disposed in the first sub-pixel GSP has an edge on the virtual pattern 152, and the first color emitting layer GEML is disposed around the upper surface and edge of the first electron blocking layer EBL1. Therefore, the first electron blocking layer EBL1 can contact the hole transport layer of the first common layer CML1 relative to the virtual pattern 152. In order to facilitate the control of the threshold voltage of the light-emitting element and the control of the electrostatic capacitance, a material with a large band gap and a low HOMO energy level can be used to form the first electron blocking layer EBL1. For example, the HOMO energy level difference between the first color emitting layer GEML and the first electron blocking layer EBL1 can be 0.5 eV or higher and 1.2 eV or lower.

[0124] The first electrode 150 may include an extension extending from the side surface 178B of the recess 178R to the upper surface of the first insulating film 178, and the extension of the first electrode 150 and the dummy pattern 152 may have the same vertical phase. The first electrode 150 disposed in a portion of the flat portion 178PA of the first insulating film 178 may have the same vertical phase as the dummy pattern 152. The first electrode 150 located in the flat portion 178PA of the first insulating film 178 can be connected to a thin-film transistor TFT disposed below it through a contact hole penetrating the flat portion 178PA of the first insulating film 178. Here, when a contact hole is provided in the flat portion 178PA of the first insulating film 178, it is possible to connect to the lower thin-film transistor TFT without interfering with the light-emitting portion.

[0125] When light generated in the intermediate layer OL of the light-emitting element ED is guided to the first electrode 150, it can be reflected from the surface of the first electrode 150, reflected again to the upper part, and emitted via the second electrode 160. In the region of the first electrode 150 located on the bottom surface 178A of the recess 178R, light incident vertically or substantially vertically on the surface of the first electrode 150 from the intermediate layer OL can be reflected back to the upper part and emitted vertically or substantially vertically via the second electrode 160. In the region of the first electrode 150 located on the side surface 178B of the recess 178R, light incident radially from the intermediate layer OL can contact the surface of the first electrode 150 and be deflected toward the first light-emitting part GA, RA, BA or the second light-emitting part GB, RB or BB, so that the light can be emitted upward.

[0126] In a structure where the pixel-defining film covers the edge of the first electrode, only the area of ​​the first electrode exposed by the pixel-defining film is used as a light-emitting portion. On the other hand, in a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the first electrode 150 is also disposed on the side surface 178B of the recess 178R of the first insulating film 178, thereby allowing light to be extracted from the side surface of the first insulating film 178, thus providing the advantage of improved luminous efficiency. For example, when the pixel-defining film has a light-emitting portion with an area as large as the first light-emitting portion GA, RA, or BA in a structure where the pixel-defining film covers the edge of the first electrode, it is advantageous, as in a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, that the light-emitting area can be increased to the same size as the area of ​​the second light-emitting portion GB, RB, or BB. Therefore, the light-emitting display device of the present invention can have the following effect: when the same voltage is applied to the first electrode 150, by using at least a portion of the area of ​​the pixel-defining film or the first insulating film overlapping with the first electrode 150 as the second light-emitting portion GB, RB, or BB to increase the light-emitting area, thereby solving the problem of limited light emission and improving luminous efficiency.

[0127] The substrate 100, on which each sub-pixel is disposed, can be formed of a single layer or multiple layers. The substrate 100 may include at least one of a glass substrate, a plastic film, and a metal plate having a predetermined supporting force. The substrate 100 may be formed of a flexible material. For example, such as... Figure 3 As shown, when the substrate 100 is formed from multiple layers 101, 102, and 103, it may have a stacked structure of a first organic film 101, an inorganic insulating layer 102, and a second organic film 103. The outermost first organic film 101 prevents the introduction of external impurities and has a protective function. The second organic film 103 can be used to planarize the formation surface of the internal array structure and prevent charge transfer or impurity transfer from the outside to the inside. The inorganic insulating layer 102 between the first organic film 101 and the second organic film 103 can be used to prevent moisture diffusion between the first organic film 101 and the second organic film 103.

[0128] A fifth insulating film 171 may be disposed on the substrate 100. The fifth insulating film 171 may serve as a buffer layer or an active buffer layer. Buffer layers and active buffer layers can protect the wiring and active layers included in the internal array from the influence of the underlying side. The fifth insulating film 171 may have multiple layers.

[0129] Thin-film transistors (TFTs) and storage capacitors (Cs) can be disposed on the fifth insulating film 171.

[0130] A light-blocking layer 111 can be provided on the fifth insulating film 171 to prevent light from being transmitted from below to the active layer 112 of the thin-film transistor TFT.

[0131] The sixth insulating film 172 can be disposed between the light blocking layer 111 and the active layer 112.

[0132] The thin-film transistor (TFT) may be disposed on each of a plurality of sub-pixels on the sixth insulating film 172. For example, the TFT may include: an active layer 112; a gate 120 overlapping the active layer 112, with a seventh insulating film 173 interposed therebetween; and a first source / drain 131 and a second source / drain 132 connected to both sides of the active layer 112.

[0133] For example, the storage capacitor Cs may include a first storage electrode 113 and a second storage electrode 121 that overlap each other. At least one of the first storage electrode 113 and the second storage electrode 121 may be formed of the same material as the active layer 112, and the other may include the same material as the gate 120, the first source / drain 131 and the second source / drain 132, and the light blocking layer 111.

[0134] The seventh insulating film 173 between the active layer 112 and the gate 120 can be used as a gate insulating film.

[0135] The active layer 112 may include, for example, silicon-based or oxide semiconductors. Silicon-based semiconductors may include crystalline silicon and / or amorphous silicon. Oxide semiconductors may include at least one of gallium oxide, tin oxide, zinc oxide, indium oxide, iron oxide, and indium gallium zinc oxide. The oxide semiconductor layer may be formed from multiple layers with different materials or different material composition ratios. Each sub-pixel may include multiple thin-film transistors, and the thin-film transistors may be disposed on different layers. For example, a first thin-film transistor may be formed as a silicon-based active layer and may be closer to the substrate 100, and a second thin-film transistor may be formed as an oxide semiconductor active layer located above the first thin-film transistor.

[0136] The active layer 112 may include a channel region overlapping with the gate 120 and a source / drain region connected to each of the first source / drain 131 and the second source / drain 132.

[0137] The seventh insulating film 173 may be selectively configured as a channel region corresponding to the active layer 112, and may be disposed above the entire surface of the substrate 100 except for the regions through which the first source / drain 131 and the second source / drain 132 penetrate. The seventh insulating film 173 may be used to insulate the active layer 112 from the gate 120. The seventh insulating film 173 may be formed of an inorganic insulating material, and may be formed, for example, a silicon oxide (SiOx) film, a silicon nitride (SiNx) film, a silicon oxide nitride (SiOxNy) film, or a multilayer film thereof.

[0138] The gate 120 may be formed on the seventh insulating film 173. The gate 120 may be configured to face the active layer 112, and the seventh insulating film 173 may be interposed therebetween.

[0139] An eighth insulating film 174 may be formed on the gate 120 to cover and protect the gate 120. Additionally, the eighth insulating film 174 may be used to protect at least one electrode and the active layer 112 of the thin-film transistor (TFT). The eighth insulating film 174 may be formed of an inorganic insulating material. For example, the eighth insulating film 174 may be formed as a silicon oxide (SiOx) film, a silicon nitride (SiNx) film, a silicon oxide nitride (SiOxNy) film, or a multilayer film thereof.

[0140] The first source / drain 131 and the second source / drain 132 may be disposed on the eighth insulating film 174. The eighth insulating film 174 and the seventh insulating film 173 may have contact holes to contact the first source / drain 131 and the second source / drain 132 at both ends of the active layer 112, and the corresponding areas may be removed.

[0141] The gate 120, the first source / drain 131, and the second source / drain 132 can each be formed as a single layer or multiple layers.

[0142] When the gate 120 and the first source / drain 131 and the second source / drain 132 are single layers, they may be formed from a group selected from molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), copper (Cu), and their alloys. Alternatively, when the gate 120 and the first source / drain 131 and the second source / drain 132 comprise multiple layers, they may comprise a bilayer of molybdenum / aluminum-neodymium, molybdenum / aluminum, titanium / aluminum, or copper / molybdenum-titanium. Optionally, the gate 120 and the first source / drain 131 and the second source / drain 132 may comprise a trilayer of molybdenum / aluminum-neodymium / molybdenum, molybdenum / aluminum / molybdenum, titanium / aluminum / titanium, or molybdenum / copper / molybdenum.

[0143] However, the configuration of the gate 120, the first source / drain 131, and the second source / drain 132 is not limited thereto, and the gate 120, the first source / drain 131, the second source / drain 132, and the second storage electrode 121 may comprise multiple layers formed from one or more of a group consisting of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu) and their alloys.

[0144] The fifth to eighth insulating films 171, 172, 173, and 174 can each be formed as inorganic insulating films. The inorganic insulating films can be, for example, formed as at least one of silicon oxide films, silicon nitride films, and silicon oxide nitride films. Compared to the planarized film structure PLN at the top, the fifth to eighth insulating films 171, 172, 173, and 174 are also referred to as "array insulating film structure INL". At least one of the fifth to eighth insulating films 171, 172, 173, and 174 can be formed as a multilayer.

[0145] The connection electrode 140, which is connected to the second source / drain 132, may be further included on the third insulating film 175 that covers and protects the thin-film transistor TFT. The connection electrode 140 is connected to the first electrode 150.

[0146] The connecting electrode 140 may be configured as a plurality of layers formed from one or more of a group consisting of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu) and their alloys. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. In some cases, the connecting electrode 140 may be omitted. When the connecting electrode 140 is omitted, one of the first source / drain 131 and the second source / drain 132 may be directly connected to the first electrode 150.

[0147] An encapsulation layer 200 protecting the light-emitting element ED may be further disposed on the second electrode 160. The encapsulation layer 200 may be a single layer or multiple layers. When the encapsulation layer 200 is multilayered, it may be formed by laminating at least one inorganic encapsulation film and at least one organic encapsulation film. The inorganic encapsulation film prevents moisture penetration, and the organic encapsulation film covers particles and flattens the surface. The organic encapsulation film may be located planarly inside the inorganic encapsulation film. In this case, the inorganic encapsulation film prevents moisture penetration to the sides.

[0148] A touch unit including first touch electrodes 304a, 304b and second touch electrodes 305 can be disposed on the encapsulation layer 200. The first touch electrodes 304a, 304b and second touch electrodes 305 can be disposed in different directions, and the number of first touch electrodes 304a, 304b and second touch electrodes 305 can be at least two.

[0149] For example, the first touch electrodes 304a and 304b can transmit touch control signals, and the second touch electrode 305 can receive touch information and ultimately transmit the touch information to the touch control unit. In another embodiment, the first touch electrodes 304a and 304b can receive touch information, and the second touch electrode 305 can transmit touch control signals.

[0150] The touch unit may include: a touch buffer film 301 on the encapsulation layer 200; a bridging electrode 302 disposed on the touch buffer film 301; a touch interlayer insulating film 303 disposed on the bridging electrode 302; first touch electrodes 304a and 304b connected to the bridging electrode 302 through contact holes in the touch interlayer insulating film 303 and disposed on the touch interlayer insulating film 303; and a second touch electrode 305 spaced apart from the first touch electrodes 304a and 304b and disposed on the touch interlayer insulating film 303.

[0151] The first touch electrodes 304a, 304b and the second touch electrode 305 correspond to the non-light-emitting portion of each sub-pixel, and do not interfere with the light path when light generated from the light-emitting element ED is emitted above the second electrode 160. At least one of the first touch electrodes 304a, 304b and the second touch electrode 305 may overlap with the virtual pattern 152.

[0152] The outermost part of the touch unit may be provided with a touch protective film 310 for protecting the first touch electrodes 304a, 304b and the second touch electrode 305. In addition to the touch protective film 310, an optical film or a protective film may also be provided on the touch protective film 310. In some cases, the optical film or the protective film may replace the function of the touch protective film.

[0153] The touch buffer film 310 and the touch interlayer insulating film 303 may be inorganic insulating films. In some cases, at least one of the touch buffer film 301 and the touch interlayer insulating film 303 may include an organic insulating film.

[0154] The touch protection film 310 includes an organic insulating film and is used to prevent external physical impacts from being transmitted to the interior and to protect the touch unit. The touch protection film 310 may be thicker than each of the touch buffer film 301 and the touch interlayer insulating film 303, and can adequately buffer external impacts.

[0155] A cover layer or cover film (not shown) may be further included on the touch protective film 310.

[0156] Although not shown in the figure, a color filter unit including a color filter (not shown) and a black matrix (not shown) can be provided on the encapsulation layer 200. The black matrix corresponds to the non-light-emitting portion of each sub-pixel and does not interfere with the light path when light generated from the light-emitting element ED is emitted above the second electrode 160. Light generated from the light-emitting element ED can be emitted via the color filter. The black matrix can overlap with the virtual pattern 152. When the color filter unit is located on the touch unit, the black matrix can overlap with the first touch electrodes 304a, 304b and the second touch electrode 305. Therefore, the black matrix can minimize the external light reflected by the virtual pattern 152 or the first touch electrodes 304a, 304b and the second touch electrode 305.

[0157] In the following text, the significance of the light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be specifically studied by comparing the internal structure of the light-emitting part of the sub-pixel with the area of ​​the virtual pattern located between adjacent sub-pixels.

[0158] Figure 4 It is a diagram Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the structure of region A according to a first embodiment. Figure 6 This is an energy band diagram of a light-emitting element within a light-emitting section according to one embodiment. Figure 7 yes Figure 4 The band diagram between the virtual pattern of region B and the second electrode. Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the stacked structure of the light-emitting part and region B in the first embodiment.

[0159] like Figure 4 As shown, in the light-emitting display device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, considering the arrangement of the upper part of the virtual pattern 152 in the region outside the first electron blocking layer EBL1, the first common layer CML1, the first color light-emitting layer GEML, the second common layer CML2, and the second electrode 160 are sequentially stacked on the virtual pattern 152. Figure 4As shown, a capping layer 165 may be provided on the second electrode 160. An encapsulation layer 200 may be provided to cover the capping layer 165.

[0160] like Figure 8 As shown, the first common layer CML1 may include a hole injection layer HIL, a hole transport layer HTL, and a hole transport auxiliary layer GHTL, and the second common layer CML2 may include a hole blocking layer HBL, an electron transport layer ETL, and an electron injection layer EIL.

[0161] In addition, such as Figure 8 As shown, the hole transport assist layer GHTL and the first electron blocking layer EBL1 may be further included between the hole transport layer and the first color emitting layer GEML.

[0162] A virtual pattern 152 may be disposed on a flat portion 178PA of the first insulating film 178 and may be exposed by a fourth insulating film 179. Although not shown in the figures, the ends of the virtual pattern 152 may be partially covered by the fourth insulating film 179. The virtual pattern 152 may be formed simultaneously with the formation of the first electrode 150. The virtual pattern 152 may comprise the same material as the first electrode 150. When the first electrode 150 comprises a stacked configuration of a reflective electrode layer and a transparent electrode layer, the virtual pattern 152 may have multiple layers identical to the first electrode 150, or may comprise only a transparent electrode layer.

[0163] When the first common layer CML1 and the second common layer CML2 each include multiple layers, refer to Figure 8 The stacked structure of the light-emitting element ED in the first light-emitting part GA of the first sub-pixel in the light-emitting display device according to the first embodiment of the present invention and Figure 4 The stacked structures in region "B" are compared as follows.

[0164] like Figure 8 As shown, in the light-emitting display device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the light-emitting element ED in the first light-emitting part GA in the first sub-pixel may be provided with a hole injection layer HIL, a hole transport layer HTL, a hole transport auxiliary layer GHTL, a first color light-emitting layer GEML, a hole blocking layer HBL, an electron transport layer ETL, an electron injection layer EIL, a second electrode (160, CAT) and a capping layer (165, CPL) in sequence on the first electrode (150, AND).

[0165] In the light-emitting display device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, Figure 4In region "B", the hole injection layer HIL, hole transport layer HTL, first color emitting layer GEML, hole blocking layer HBL, electron transport layer ETL, electron injection layer EIL, second electrode (160, CAT), and capping layer (165, CPL) can be sequentially disposed on a virtual pattern (152, DAN) in the non-emitting part surrounding the first sub-pixel, as shown below. Figure 8 As shown.

[0166] Meanwhile, in the light-emitting display device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the second color light-emitting layer REML disposed in the second sub-pixel RSP adjacent to the first sub-pixel GSP is shown to have a shape having an edge surrounding the second electron blocking layer EBL2. However, this is provided only as an example, and the overlap of the second electron blocking layer EBL2 and the second color light-emitting layer REML with the virtual pattern 152 is not a necessary configuration. That is, in the light-emitting display device according to the first embodiment, the second electron blocking layer EBL2 and the second light-emitting layer REML may not overlap with the virtual pattern 152. In the light-emitting display device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the virtual pattern 152 ensures a vertical charge discharge path for holes in the off state by a portion (where the first color light-emitting layer GEML directly contacts the first common layer CML1 located outside the first electron blocking layer EBL1), so that holes accumulated in the first electron blocking layer EBL1 can be easily discharged to the outside of the light-emitting element ED.

[0167] The capping layer (165, CPL) primarily protects the light-emitting element and can also be used to impart a microcavity resonance effect to the light emitted through the second electrode (160, CAT), thereby improving luminous efficiency.

[0168] exist Figure 8 In the example, the hole blocking layer HBL can be omitted.

[0169] exist Figure 8 In the example, by adjusting the thickness of the first color emitting layer GEML, the hole transport auxiliary layer GHTL is omitted from the first sub-pixel GSP, and the resonance effect within the emitting element ED can be different from the resonance effect of the second sub-pixel RSP and the third sub-pixel BSP.

[0170] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in the light-emitting part GA, the first color light-emitting layer GEML and the first electron blocking layer EBL1 directly and completely overlap, thus having a larger overlapping area with the virtual pattern 152 compared to the first electron blocking layer EBL1. Figure 6As shown, the first sub-pixel GSP includes a first electron blocking layer EBL1 with a lower (deeper) HOMO level compared to its horizontally adjacent sub-pixels. This allows the threshold voltage Vth of the light-emitting element required to switch from the off state to the on state to be adjusted to a predetermined level or higher, and also controls the electrostatic capacitance of the light-emitting element of the first sub-pixel GSP. The HOMO level of the first electron blocking layer EBL1 differs from the work function of the first electrode 150 by ΔE, and this is related to the threshold voltage Vth of the first light-emitting portion GA of the first sub-pixel. When the first electron blocking layer EBL1 has a lower HOMO level, it can have a larger HOMO level difference ΔEb compared to the HOMO level of the first color light-emitting layer GEML. As the HOMO level difference between the first color light-emitting layer GEML and the first electron blocking layer EBL1 increases, the probability of holes accumulating at the interface between the first color light-emitting layer GEML and the first electron blocking layer EBL1 increases during the switch from the on state to the off state.

[0171] like Figure 4 , Figures 6 to 8 As shown, the light-emitting display device according to the first embodiment of the present invention further includes a virtual pattern 152 formed on a portion of the non-light-emitting portion using the same material as the first electrode 150, so as to easily release holes from the first color-emitting layer GEML, which is in direct contact with the first common layer CML1 located outside the edge EBL1E of the first electron blocking layer EBL1, when switching from the on state to the off state. When switching from the on state to the off state, holes can be easily released directly from the first common layer CML1 in the region where the first color-emitting layer GEML contacts the first common layer CML1, which has a small HOMO energy level difference ΔE1 with it, and thus holes can be easily released to the overlapping virtual pattern 152.

[0172] Here, as Figure 7 As shown, in the region of the virtual pattern 152 that does not overlap with the first electron blocking layer EBL1 and the second electron blocking layer EBL2, the HOMO energy level difference ΔE1 between the first color emitting layer GEML and the first common layer CML1 can be smaller than the HOMO energy level difference ΔEb between the first color emitting layer GEML and the first electron blocking layer EBL1 at the first electrode of the first sub-pixel, as shown. Figure 6 As shown.

[0173] In the light-emitting element ED of the first sub-pixel GSP, holes captured at the interface between the first electron blocking layer EBL1 and the first color light-emitting layer GEML can also be easily transferred to the virtual pattern 152 because they are transferred to the first color light-emitting layer GEML and / or the first common layer CML1 through the edge EBL1E of the first electron blocking layer EBL1.

[0174] Figure 5 It is a diagram Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the structure of region A according to a second embodiment. Figure 9 yes Figure 5 The band diagram between the virtual pattern of region C and the second electrode. Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the stacked structure of the light-emitting part and region C in the second embodiment.

[0175] like Figure 5 As shown, in the light-emitting display device according to the second embodiment of the present invention, considering the arrangement of the upper part of the virtual pattern 2152 in the region outside the first electron blocking layer EBL1, the first common layer CML1, the second color light-emitting layer REML, the first color light-emitting layer GEML, the second common layer CML2, and the second electrode 160 are sequentially stacked on the virtual pattern (2152, DAN). Figure 4 The configuration shown differs in that the second color emitting layer REML extends further toward the first sub-pixel GSP, thus having an area that overlaps with the first color emitting layer GEML on the virtual pattern 2152.

[0176] Here, the edges EBL1E and EBL2E of the first electron blocking layer EBL1 of the first sub-pixel GSP and the second electron blocking layer EBL2 of the second sub-pixel RSP are spaced apart from each other, and the first color emitting layer GEML and the second color emitting layer REML overlap in the space between the edges EBL1E and EBL2E of the first electron blocking layer EBL1 and the second electron blocking layer EBL2E.

[0177] In this case, the edge GEMLE of the first color emitting layer GEML can overlap with the non-emitting part of the second sub-pixel RSP, and the edge REMLE of the second color emitting layer REML can overlap with the non-emitting part of the first sub-pixel GSP.

[0178] When the overlap area between the first color emitting layer GEML and the second color emitting layer REML on the virtual pattern 2152 increases, during the transition from the on state to the off state, holes are easily released in the order of the first color emitting layer GEML, the second color emitting layer REML, the first common layer CML1, and the virtual pattern 2152, as shown below. Figure 9As shown. The second color emitting layer REML is disposed between the first color emitting layer GEML and the first common layer CML1, such that the HOMO energy level difference ΔE3 between the first color emitting layer GEML and the second color emitting layer REML and the HOMO energy level difference ΔE2 between the second color emitting layer REML and the first common layer CML1 appear sequentially. Therefore, when holes are guided from the first color emitting layer GEML to the virtual pattern 2152, the energy barrier is small, thus promoting the release of holes.

[0179] Here, the first electron blocking layer EBL1 or the second electron blocking layer EBL2 may have a lower HOMO energy level than each of the first common layer CML1, the first color emitting layer GEML, and the second color emitting layer REML. Furthermore, the HOMO energy level of the second color emitting layer REML may be lower than the HOMO energy level of the first color emitting layer GEML.

[0180] At the same time, such as Figure 10 As shown, the first color emitting layer GEML and the second color emitting layer REML may each include a hole transport assist layer GHTL or RHTL on their underside. Optionally, in some cases, although a hole transport assist layer GHTL is provided in the first emitting portion GA, the hole transport assist layer GHTL may be omitted on the virtual pattern 2152. In embodiments of the present invention, the first color emitting layer GEML is in vertical contact with the first electron blocking layer EBL1 at least in the first emitting portion GA and the second emitting portion GB, so the hole transport assist layer GHTL of the first sub-pixel GSP can be set below the first electron blocking layer EBL1. In the light-emitting display device according to the second embodiment, the second color emitting layer REML is set to cover the edge EBL2E of the second electron blocking layer EBL2 on the virtual pattern 2152, and the first color emitting layer GEML is set to cover the edge REMLE of the second color emitting layer REML. Here, in the region C between the edge EBL1E of the first electron blocking layer EBL1 and the edge EBL2E of the second electron blocking layer EBL2 on the virtual pattern 2152, the first common layer CML1, the second color emitting layer REML, the first color emitting layer GEML, the second common layer CML2, the second electrode 160 and the capping layer 165 are stacked sequentially on the virtual pattern 2152.

[0181] The same as in the first embodiment is omitted. Figure 10 The description of the configuration in [the document / document].

[0182] Therefore, in the first and second embodiments, the following regions are provided: wherein the first electron blocking layer with a large HOMO energy level difference from the first color emitting layer is omitted in the virtual patterns 152, 2152, so that direct contact between the first color emitting layer with a small HOMO energy level difference and the first common layer or the second color emitting layer is possible on the virtual patterns 152, 2152, so as to facilitate the release of holes from the first color emitting layer to the virtual pattern when switching to the off state.

[0183] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the stacked structure of the virtual pattern area and the light-emitting part of the light-emitting display device according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0184] like Figure 11 As shown, the light-emitting display device 3000 according to the third embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration: at least one of the light-emitting elements ED of the first sub-pixel GSP, the second sub-pixel RSP and the third sub-pixel BSP includes two or more stacked layers.

[0185] Each layer of the light-emitting element (ED) can be distinguished from the charge generation layer (CGL). The charge generation layer (CGL) can be formed, for example, by stacking p-type and n-type charge generation layers.

[0186] Each stack S1, S2 may include: a first common layer CML1, CML3 associated with hole injection and / or hole transport; a light-emitting layer (EML1, EML2, ...); and a second common layer CML2, CML4 associated with electron transport and / or electron injection. When the light-emitting element ED has three or more stacks, a charge generation layer and another stack may be further included between the second stack S2 and the second electrode CAT.

[0187] Here, the first common layers CML1 and CML3 associated with hole transport may include hole transport layers HTL1 and HTL2 and an electron blocking layer EBL. Compared to the first common layer CML3 of the second stack S2, the first common layer CML1 of the first stack S1 may also include a hole injection layer HIL. The hole injection layer HIL and the hole transport layer HTL may be shared by multiple sub-pixels. In this case, the first electrode AND and the virtual pattern DAN may be in contact with the hole injection layer.

[0188] The second common layers CML2 and CML4, which are related to electron transport, may include a hole blocking layer and an electron transport layer. The second common layer closest to the second electrode CAT may also include an electron injection layer.

[0189] Although the light-emitting part EM of the sub-pixel includes multiple stacks, the virtual pattern DAN can be set in the non-light-emitting part, and the first electron blocking layers EBL11 and EBL12 of the first common layers CML1 and CML3 related to hole transport in the stack can be spaced apart from the second electron blocking layers EBL21 and EBL22 of the adjacent sub-pixel, and the light-emitting layers EML1 and EML2 of each stack can be set to cover the edges EBLE11 and EBLE12 of the first electron blocking layers EBL11 and EBL12 with lower HOMO energy levels.

[0190] The edges of the second electron blocking layers EBL21 and EBL22 may overlap with the color emitting layers AEMLE1 and AEMLE2 of adjacent sub-pixels. The edges AEMLE1 and AEMLE2 of the color emitting layers AEMLE1 and AEMLE2 of adjacent sub-pixels may be spaced apart from the edges EMLE1 and EMLE2 of the emitting layers EML1 and EML2, as shown in the figure. Optionally, not limited to the example shown, the edges AEMLE1 and AEMLE2 of the color emitting layers AEMLE1 and AEMLE2 of adjacent sub-pixels may further extend to overlap with the emitting layers EML1 and EML2. Two or more color emitting layers may be disposed at the first sub-pixel, and these two or more layers may be configured to overlap each other, with a charge generation layer CGL between them.

[0191] Figure 11 An example is shown in which luminescent layers EML1 and EML2 are provided to cover the edges EBLE11 and EBLE12 of both the first stack S1 and the second stack S2, which are divided by the charge generation layer CGL. However, embodiments of the invention are not limited thereto. For example, only the edge EBLE11 of the electron blocking layer EBL11 of the first stack S1 may be covered by the first luminescent layer EML1. In this case, the electron blocking layer of the second stack S2 may be disposed continuously and commonly in multiple sub-pixels without being patterned for each sub-pixel. Optionally, the electron blocking layer may have the same edges as the luminescent layer EML2 or the hole transport auxiliary layer.

[0192] like Figure 7As shown, in the light-emitting display device 3000 according to the third embodiment of the present invention, a virtual pattern DAN having the same material as the first electrode AND is further disposed in a portion of the non-light-emitting portion to facilitate the release of holes to the light-emitting layer EML1, which is in direct contact with the edge EBLE11 of the first electron blocking layer EBL11, when switching from the on state to the off state. When switching from the on state to the off state, in the region where the light-emitting layer EML1 contacts the first common layer CML1, which has a small HOMO energy level difference ΔE1, holes can be easily and directly released from the light-emitting layer EML1 to the hole transport layer HTL1 of the first common layer CML1, thereby facilitating the release of holes to the overlapping virtual pattern 152.

[0193] Therefore, in the third embodiment, the region in which the electron blocking layer EBL11 of the virtual pattern DAN has a large HOMO energy level difference with the light-emitting layer EML1 of the first stack S1 is omitted, making direct contact between the first color light-emitting layer with a small HOMO energy level difference and the first common layer or the second color light-emitting layer on the virtual pattern possible, so that when switched to the off state, holes can be easily released from the first color light-emitting layer into the virtual pattern.

[0194] The DANR shown in the diagram refers to the area where the virtual pattern DAN is set.

[0195] Figure 12 This is a plan view showing a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0196] like Figure 12 As shown, a light-emitting display device 2000 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a virtual pattern 2252 having a closed-loop shape around a first sub-pixel GSP.

[0197] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a light-emitting display device 2000 is provided with a region in which an electron blocking layer having a high tendency to capture holes on the virtual pattern 2252 in a vertical structure is omitted by providing a component that can be used as a charge discharge source for the virtual pattern 2252 around a first sub-pixel including an electron blocking layer having a relatively low HOMO energy level.

[0198] In the region where the electron blocking layer is omitted in the middle layer of the virtual pattern 2252, direct contact is provided between the first color emitting layer GEML and the first common layer CML1, so that holes are released from the first color emitting layer GEML without being captured by the electron blocking layer in the case that there is no large energy barrier in the interlayer arrangement between virtual patterns 2252, thereby preventing visibility defects such as screen drag.

[0199] In a light-emitting display device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the virtual pattern 2252 may have a closed-loop shape surrounding the first sub-pixel.

[0200] In this case, the edges of the first electron blocking layer and the first color emitting layer can be provided such that they overlap with the virtual pattern 2252 of the closed loop shape to facilitate the design of the emitting display device.

[0201] at the same time, Figures 3 to 11 The cross-sectional construction described herein can be selectively applied to Figure 12 The planar structure of the light-emitting display device is used to provide the same effect.

[0202] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating a virtual pattern area according to another embodiment of the light-emitting display device of the present invention.

[0203] like Figure 13 As shown, a light-emitting display device according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a recessed portion 3178R and a virtual pattern 3152 in a first insulating film 3178. The recessed portion 3178R includes a bottom surface 3178A and a side surface 3178B surrounding the bottom surface 3178A. The virtual pattern 3152 is disposed on the bottom surface 3178A of the recessed portion 3178R. (See reference...) Figure 13 The bottom surface 3178A overlapping with the virtual pattern 3152 may have the same characteristics as those used in... Figure 3 The bottom surface 178A of the first electrode is formed at the same depth in the light-emitting portion described herein. A fourth insulating film 3179, configured to protect the first electrode, may be further disposed on the first insulating film 3178. According to... Figure 13 In the embodiment of the light-emitting display device, the virtual pattern 3152 may be provided on the bottom surface 3178A within the recess 3178R rather than on the flat portion above the first insulating film 3178.

[0204] Furthermore, considering a light-emitting display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, refer to Figure 13 In the region outside the first electron blocking layer EBL1, the first common layer CML1, the first color emitting layer GEML, the second common layer CML2, and the second electrode 3160 are stacked sequentially on the virtual pattern 3152. A capping layer 3165 may be disposed on the second electrode 3160. An encapsulation layer 200 may be disposed to cover the capping layer 3165.

[0205] The first common layer CML1 may include a hole injection layer and a hole transport layer, and the second common layer CML2 may include a hole blocking layer, an electron transport layer, and an electron injection layer. Furthermore, a hole transport auxiliary layer GHTL and a first electron blocking layer EBL1 may be further included between the hole transport layer and the first color emitting layer GEML.

[0206] The virtual pattern 3152 may be disposed on the flat portion of the first insulating film 3178 and may be exposed by the fourth insulating film 3179.

[0207] According to Figure 13 In another embodiment of the present invention, a light-emitting display device may be provided with a first color light-emitting layer GEML on a virtual pattern 3152 to surround the edge of a first electron blocking layer EBL1 extending from a first sub-pixel GSP, and a second color light-emitting layer REML may be provided to surround the edge of a second electron blocking layer EBL2 extending from a second sub-pixel RSP.

[0208] exist Figure 13 In the illustrated embodiment, when switching from the on state to the off state, the virtual pattern 3152, formed of the same material as the first electrode, can easily release holes from the first color emitting layer GEML located outside the edge EBL1E of the first electron blocking layer EBL1 to the first common layer CML1, which is in direct contact with the first color emitting layer GEML. When switching from the on state to the off state, in the region where the first color emitting layer GEML and the first common layer CML1, which have a small HOMO energy level difference, are in contact, holes can be easily released directly to the first common layer CML1, thus easily releasing holes to the overlapping virtual pattern 3152.

[0209] exist Figure 13 In the illustrated embodiment, the virtual pattern 3152 is formed within the recess 3178R of the first insulating film 3178, such that, unlike the structures of the first and second embodiments where the virtual pattern is disposed on the flat portion of the upper part of the first insulating film 3178 and has a width of DANW1 or greater, the width DANW2 of the virtual pattern 3152 used as a charge discharge source can be shorter. Furthermore, in Figure 13 In the embodiment shown, the virtual pattern 3152 is disposed on the bottom surface of the first insulating film 3178, such that due to the steep steps caused by the thicker first insulating film 3178, the paths of the intermediate layers CML1, EBL1 / EBL2, GEML / REML, and CML2 formed on the virtual pattern 3152 can become longer between adjacent sub-pixels GSP and RSP.

[0210] At the same time, Figure 13 In the embodiment shown, the path of each common layer CML1, CML2 on the virtual pattern 3152 is lengthened, thereby reducing the leakage current caused by the first common layer CML1 and the second common layer CML1 between adjacent sub-pixels.

[0211] Figure 14 It is a graph showing the change in brightness over time in the first to third experimental cases when the screen is driven to black.

[0212] Aside from the absence of virtual patterns and the lack of distinction between the electron blocking layers of adjacent sub-pixels, Figure 14 The first experimental example EX1 has the same characteristics as Figure 3 The structure is the same as the previous one. That is, only the color emissive layer and the hole transport auxiliary layer are separated between adjacent sub-pixels.

[0213] Except for the absence of virtual patterns and the fact that the edge of the first electron blocking layer is surrounded by the first color emitting layer. Figure 14 The second experimental example EX2 has the same characteristics as Figure 3 The same structure.

[0214] In addition to the presence of a virtual pattern and the fact that the edge of the first electron blocking layer is surrounded by a first color emitting layer in the area where it overlaps with the virtual pattern, Figure 14 The third experimental example EX3 has the same characteristics as Figure 3 The same structure.

[0215] from Figure 14 It can be seen that when switching to a black screen (when switching from the on state to the off state), the first experimental example does not completely switch to a black state because it retains a certain brightness even after a predetermined time period. Comparing the first and second experimental examples, the second experimental example has lower brightness when switching to a black state compared to the first experimental example, due to the structure in which the first color emitting layer surrounds the edge of the first electron blocking layer in the light-emitting element. Compared to the first and second experimental examples, the third experimental example can appear black 0.1 seconds after switching to a black screen, thus exhibiting almost no delay when switching to a black screen.

[0216] That is, it can be seen that even in a structure in which the light-emitting part is extended, the light-emitting display device according to the embodiment of the present invention can solve problems of poor visibility such as screen dragging by using a configuration in which the virtual pattern overlaps with the edges of the electron blocking layer and the color light-emitting layer to quickly discharge charge from the color light-emitting layer when switching to the off state.

[0217] The light-emitting display device according to the present invention has the following effects.

[0218] First, a first insulating film is provided on which a first electrode (pixel electrode) is placed, such that a recess is provided for each sub-pixel, and a first electrode is provided on the bottom surface and side surface of the recess in the first insulating film, thereby extending the use of the front surface and side surface of the recess as the light-emitting part of the light-emitting area.

[0219] Second, a virtual pattern comprising the same material as the first electrode is provided on the flat portion between the recesses of the first insulating film, thereby releasing the charge accumulated in the organic layer overlapping the virtual pattern to the virtual pattern in the off state and preventing screen dragging in the off state.

[0220] Third, the area on the side surface of the recess of the first electrode, where the first electrode is disposed, serves as the light-emitting portion, and the extended light-emitting portion provides the advantage of achieving low-power operation and improved efficiency. Therefore, advantageously, low-power operation can be achieved from the perspective of high efficiency and high brightness, and a layered structure included in the light-emitting element can be realized without adding separate materials, thus achieving sustainability and ESG (environmental / social / governance) effects.

[0221] A light-emitting display device according to one embodiment of the present invention may include: a first insulating film at a first sub-pixel and a second sub-pixel adjacent to each other, the first insulating film having a plurality of recesses and a flat portion between adjacent recesses; a first electrode located in a recess of each of the first sub-pixel and the second sub-pixel; a virtual pattern located on the flat portion of the first insulating film and spaced apart from the first electrode; a first electron blocking layer located at the first sub-pixel and a second electron blocking layer located at the second sub-pixel, the first electron blocking layer and the second electron blocking layer having edges on the virtual pattern and spaced apart from each other; a first color emitting layer at the first sub-pixel covering the edge of the first electron blocking layer; a second color emitting layer on the second electron blocking layer; and a second electrode on the first color emitting layer and the second color emitting layer.

[0222] In a light-emitting display device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the second color light-emitting layer may cover the edge of the second electron blocking layer.

[0223] In a light-emitting display device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the second color light-emitting layer may not overlap with the first electron blocking layer.

[0224] In a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, each of the first color light-emitting layer and the second color light-emitting layer may overlap with the virtual pattern.

[0225] In a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) energy level of the first electron blocking layer may be lower than the HOMO energy level of the first color light-emitting layer.

[0226] A light-emitting display device according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include: a first common layer between the first electrode and the first electron blocking layer and the second electron blocking layer; and a second common layer between the first color light-emitting layer and the second color light-emitting layer and the second electrode. The first electron blocking layer or the second electron blocking layer may have a HOMO level lower than the HOMO level of each of the first common layer, the first color light-emitting layer, and the second color light-emitting layer.

[0227] A light-emitting display device according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include: a first transmission auxiliary layer, the first transmission auxiliary layer overlapping the first color light-emitting layer and disposed between the first electrode and the first electron blocking layer; and a second transmission auxiliary layer, the second transmission auxiliary layer overlapping the second color light-emitting layer and disposed between the first electrode and the second electron blocking layer.

[0228] In a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, in a region on the virtual pattern that does not overlap with the first electron blocking layer and the second electron blocking layer, the HOMO energy level difference between the first color light-emitting layer and the first transmission auxiliary layer may be smaller than the HOMO energy level difference between the first color light-emitting layer and the first electron blocking layer on the first electrode of the first sub-pixel.

[0229] In a light-emitting display device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the first color light-emitting layer may be disposed in two or more layers at the first sub-pixel. The two or more layers may overlap each other, and a charge-generating layer is provided therebetween.

[0230] In a light-emitting display device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the virtual pattern may include the same material as the first electrode.

[0231] In a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the first electrode may be disposed at each of the first sub-pixel and the second sub-pixel, along the bottom surface of the recess and the side surface surrounding the bottom surface of the recess.

[0232] In a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the first electrode may further include an extension that extends from the side surface of the recess to the upper surface of the first insulating film, and the extension of the first electrode and the virtual pattern may have the same vertical phase.

[0233] The light-emitting display device according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include an encapsulation layer on the second electrode.

[0234] A light-emitting display device according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a touch unit on the second electrode, the touch unit including a first touch electrode for transmitting touch control signals and a second touch electrode for receiving touch information. At least one of the first touch electrode and the second touch electrode may overlap with the virtual pattern.

[0235] In a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the virtual pattern may be in a floating state.

[0236] In a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, when the first sub-pixel is in an off state, the virtual pattern may have a potential different from the potential of the first electrode at the first sub-pixel.

[0237] In a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the virtual pattern may be arranged along the length direction of the light-emitting portion of the first sub-pixel.

[0238] In a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the virtual pattern may be spaced apart from the edge of the light-emitting portion of the first sub-pixel, and may be configured as a plurality of island-shaped portions spaced apart from the light-emitting portion of the first sub-pixel.

[0239] In a light-emitting display device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the virtual pattern may have a closed loop around the first sub-pixel.

[0240] In a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the first color light-emitting layer can emit light with a wavelength of 500 nm to 590 nm, and the second color light-emitting layer can emit light with a wavelength longer than that of the first color light-emitting layer.

[0241] In a light-emitting display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the virtual pattern may be a charge release source for releasing the charge from a first electron blocking layer on the virtual pattern.

[0242] Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that various modifications and variations can be made to this invention without departing from its spirit or scope. Therefore, this invention is intended to cover such modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A light-emitting display device, comprising: A first insulating film at a first sub-pixel and a second sub-pixel that are adjacent to each other, the first insulating film having a plurality of recesses and a flat portion between adjacent recesses; A first electrode is located in the recess of each of the first sub-pixel and the second sub-pixel; A virtual pattern, the virtual pattern being located on a flat portion of the first insulating film and spaced apart from the first electrode; A first electron blocking layer located at the first sub-pixel and a second electron blocking layer located at the second sub-pixel, the first electron blocking layer and the second electron blocking layer having edges on the virtual pattern and being spaced apart from each other; A first color emitting layer at the first sub-pixel, the first color emitting layer covering the edge of the first electron blocking layer; A second color emitting layer on the second electron blocking layer; as well as The second electrode is located on the first color emitting layer and the second color emitting layer.

2. The light-emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein the second color light-emitting layer covers the edge of the second electron blocking layer.

3. The light-emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein the second color light-emitting layer does not overlap with the first electron blocking layer.

4. The light-emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein each of the first color light-emitting layer and the second color light-emitting layer overlaps with the virtual pattern.

5. The light-emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) energy level of the first electron blocking layer is lower than the HOMO energy level of the first color light-emitting layer.

6. The light-emitting display device according to claim 1, further comprising: A first common layer between the first electrode and the first electron blocking layer and the second electron blocking layer; as well as A second common layer between the first color emitting layer and the second color emitting layer and the second electrode. The first electron blocking layer or the second electron blocking layer has a lower HOMO energy level than each of the first common layer, the first color emitting layer and the second color emitting layer.

7. The light-emitting display device according to claim 1, further comprising: A first transmission auxiliary layer is overlapped with the first color emitting layer and disposed between the first electrode and the first electron blocking layer; as well as A second transmission auxiliary layer overlaps with the second color emitting layer and is disposed between the first electrode and the second electron blocking layer.

8. The light-emitting display device according to claim 7, wherein in the region on the virtual pattern that does not overlap with the first electron blocking layer and the second electron blocking layer, the HOMO energy level difference between the first color light-emitting layer and the first transmission auxiliary layer is less than the HOMO energy level difference between the first color light-emitting layer and the first electron blocking layer at the first electrode of the first sub-pixel.

9. The light-emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein the first color light-emitting layer is disposed at the first sub-pixel in two or more layers, and the two or more layers overlap each other and there is a charge generation layer therebetween.

10. The light-emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein the virtual pattern comprises the same material as the first electrode.

11. The light-emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein the first electrode is disposed at each of the first sub-pixel and the second sub-pixel, along the bottom surface of the recess and the side surface surrounding the bottom surface of the recess.

12. The light-emitting display device according to claim 10, wherein the first electrode further includes an extension extending from a side surface of the recess to an upper surface of the first insulating film, and the extension of the first electrode and the virtual pattern have the same vertical phase.

13. The light-emitting display device according to claim 1, further comprising an encapsulation layer on the second electrode.

14. The light-emitting display device according to claim 1, further comprising: The touch unit on the second electrode includes: The first touch electrode for transmitting touch control signals; and The second touch electrode is used to receive touch information. At least one of the first touch electrode and the second touch electrode overlaps with the virtual pattern.

15. The light-emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein the virtual pattern is in a floating state.

16. The light-emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein in the off state of the first sub-pixel, the virtual pattern has a potential different from the potential of the first electrode at the first sub-pixel.

17. The light-emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein the virtual pattern is arranged along the length direction of the light-emitting portion of the first sub-pixel.

18. The light-emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein the virtual pattern is spaced apart from the edge of the light-emitting portion of the first sub-pixel and is configured as a plurality of island-shaped portions spaced apart from the light-emitting portion of the first sub-pixel.

19. The light-emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein the virtual pattern has a closed loop around the first sub-pixel.

20. The light-emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein the first color light-emitting layer is configured to emit light with a wavelength of 500 nm to 590 nm. The second color emitting layer is configured to emit light with a wavelength longer than that of the first color emitting layer.

21. The light-emitting display device according to claim 1, wherein the virtual pattern is a charge release source for releasing charge from a first electron blocking layer on the virtual pattern.

Images