Display device and electronic device

Abstract

The invention discloses a display device and an electronic device. The display device includes: a display panel; a driver circuit connected to the pad of the display panel; and a first protruding pattern and a second protruding pattern disposed between the substrate and the pad of the display panel and protruding toward the terminal of the driver circuit, in which an area of the first protruding pattern is smaller than an area of the second protruding pattern, and a thickness of the first protruding pattern is larger than a thickness of the second protruding pattern.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0123604, filed on September 11, 2024, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to a display device (more specifically, to a display device designed to minimize contact resistance between the display panel and the driver circuitry) and an electronic device comprising such a display device. Background Technology

[0003] Organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays are self-emissive and, unlike liquid crystal displays (LCDs), do not require a separate light source, allowing for thinner and lighter designs. Furthermore, OLED displays are gaining significant attention as a next-generation display technology for televisions, monitors, and portable electronic devices due to their advantages, including low power consumption, high brightness, and fast response times. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a display device designed to minimize contact resistance between the display panel and the driver circuitry.

[0005] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a display device is provided, the display device comprising: a display panel; a driver circuit; a pad connected to the display panel; and a first protruding pattern and a second protruding pattern disposed between a base of the display panel and the pad and protruding toward a terminal of the driver circuit, wherein the area of ​​the first protruding pattern is smaller than the area of ​​the second protruding pattern, and the thickness of the first protruding pattern is greater than the thickness of the second protruding pattern.

[0006] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device is provided, the electronic device including a display device comprising a screen, wherein the display device includes: a display panel; a driver circuit; a pad connected to the display panel; and a first protruding pattern and a second protruding pattern disposed between a base of the display panel and the pad and protruding toward a terminal of the driver circuit, wherein the area of ​​the first protruding pattern is smaller than the area of ​​the second protruding pattern, and the thickness of the first protruding pattern is greater than the thickness of the second protruding pattern.

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a display device is provided, the display device comprising: a display panel; a driver circuit; a pad connected to the display panel; and a plurality of protruding patterns disposed between a base of the display panel and the pad, the plurality of protruding patterns protruding toward terminals of the driver circuit, wherein the plurality of protruding patterns include protruding patterns having different sizes and / or thicknesses. Attached Figure Description

[0008] The above and / or other features will become apparent from the following description of embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a plan view of the display device according to an embodiment; Figure 2 No Figure 1 A plan view of the display device comprising the driver circuit, the first circuit board, and the second circuit board; Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A magnified view of region A1; Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view taken by line I-I'; Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A magnified view of region A2; Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the display device when the display panel and driver circuitry according to the embodiment are joined parallel to each other; Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the display device when the display panel and driver circuitry according to the embodiment are not joined parallel to each other; Figure 8 and Figure 9 This is a diagram used to explain the effect of the display device according to the embodiment; Figure 10 This is a tomographic photograph of a portion of the display device according to an embodiment; Figure 11 This is a block diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment; and Figure 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 These are schematic diagrams of electronic devices according to various embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0009] This disclosure will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate embodiments. However, the disclosure may take various forms and is not limited to the embodiments set forth herein. These embodiments are provided to ensure a thorough and complete disclosure, effectively conveying the full scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0010] It will be understood that when a layer is referred to as being "on" another layer or substrate, it can be directly on said other layer or substrate, or an intervening layer may be present. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals denote the same components. In the drawings, the thickness of layers and regions is exaggerated for clarity.

[0011] While the terms "first," "second," etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be used to distinguish one element from another. Therefore, the first element discussed below may be designated as the second element. Designating an element as "first" does not necessarily require or imply the existence of a second element or other elements. The terms "first," "second," etc., may be used herein to distinguish different categories or groups of elements. For the sake of brevity, the terms "first," "second," etc., may respectively represent "first category (or first group)," "second category (or second group)," etc.

[0012] Features of the various embodiments of this disclosure can be combined in whole or in part. As will be readily understood by those skilled in the art, various technical interactions and operations are possible. Embodiments can be implemented individually or in combination.

[0013] This disclosure relates to a display device designed to minimize contact resistance between a display panel and driver circuitry, thereby improving electrical connectivity and device reliability. This is achieved by including protruding patterns of different sizes and thicknesses located between a substrate of the display panel and a pad connected to the driver circuitry. A first protruding pattern has a smaller area but a larger thickness than a second protruding pattern, thus allowing for enhanced contact force and penetration. This design ensures stable electrical contact even when the display panel and driver circuitry are not perfectly parallel, thereby reducing signal loss and improving overall performance.

[0014] This technology is applicable to a wide range of next-generation displays, including OLED, quantum dot, microLED, and nanoLED displays, making them suitable for smartphones, tablets, TVs, wearables, and automotive displays. Unlike conventional designs that significantly reduce contact area and increase resistance due to misalignment, this method maintains consistent electrical connectivity. Adhesion and durability are further enhanced by improving the flowability of the non-conductive film (NCF) used in the bonding process. This innovation is particularly beneficial for flexible and high-resolution displays, ensuring long-term performance and efficiency.

[0015] In the following description, specific example embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0016] Figure 1 This is a plan view of the display device 100 according to an embodiment. Figure 2 No Figure 1 A plan view of the display device 100, which includes the driver circuit DDC, the first circuit board FPCB, and the second circuit board PCB.

[0017] Reference Figure 1The display device 100 is a device for displaying moving or still images. The display device 100 can be used as a display screen in portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, smartphones, tablet PCs, smartwatches, watch phones, mobile communication terminals, e-notebooks, e-readers, portable multimedia players (PMPs), navigation devices, and ultra-mobile PCs (UMPCs)) and various products such as televisions, laptops, monitors, billboards, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. These are given by way of example only, and the display device 100 can also be used in other electronic devices.

[0018] Display device 100 may be a light-emitting display device, such as an organic light-emitting display device including organic light-emitting diodes, a quantum dot light-emitting display device including a quantum dot light-emitting layer, an inorganic light-emitting display device including inorganic semiconductors, or an ultra-miniature light-emitting display device including ultra-miniature light-emitting diodes such as micro light-emitting diodes or nano light-emitting diodes. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, display device 100 may be a type of display device other than a light-emitting display device. Embodiments in which display device 100 is a light-emitting display device (e.g., an organic light-emitting display device) will be disclosed below.

[0019] The display device 100 may include a display panel DSP, a first circuit board FPCB, a second circuit board PCB, and a driver circuit DDC (e.g., a data driver circuit).

[0020] The display panel DSP can be a rigid panel that remains substantially undeformed or a flexible panel that can deform (such as folding, bending, or rolling in at least a portion). The display panel DSP can be integrated into the display device 100 in a specific portion in an unbent or bent state.

[0021] The display panel DSP can include the display area DA and the non-display area NDA.

[0022] Multiple pixels (PX) can be disposed in the display area DA. Pixels (PX) can display images. Additionally, multiple gate lines and multiple emitter lines connected to the pixels (PX) can be disposed in the display area DA. According to embodiments, the display area DA can have various shapes. For example, the display area DA can have a quadrilateral shape, a polygonal shape other than a quadrilateral shape, a circular shape, an elliptical shape, an irregular shape, or other shapes. In embodiments, the display area DA can have a shape matching the shape of the display panel DSP.

[0023] The non-display area NDA can be disposed around the display area DA. In an embodiment, the non-display area NDA can surround the display area DA. The gate driver and emitter driver for driving the pixel PX can be disposed in the non-display area NDA of the display panel DSP. The gate driver can be connected to a gate line, and the emitter driver can be connected to an emitter line. The gate signal from the gate driver can be supplied to the pixel PX through the gate line, and the emitter signal from the emitter driver can be supplied to the pixel PX through the emitter line.

[0024] The first side S1 and the second side S2 of the display panel DSP can face each other in the first direction DR1, and the third side S3 and the fourth side S4 of the display panel DSP can face each other in the second direction DR2. The first circuit board FPCB can be stacked with the third side S3. Here, the first side S1 (or the second side S2) can be longer than the third side S3 (or the fourth side S4). However, this disclosure is not limited to this, and the length of each of the first side S1, the second side S2, the third side S3, and the fourth side S4 can vary.

[0025] The driver circuit DDC can be connected to the display panel DSP. For example, the driver circuit DDC can be electrically connected to the non-display area NDA of the display panel DSP. The driver circuit DDC may include, for example, an integrated circuit.

[0026] The first circuit board (FPCB) can be connected to the display panel DSP and the second circuit board PCB. For example, a first side of the first circuit board (FPCB) can be electrically connected to the non-display area NDA of the display panel DSP, and a second side of the first circuit board (FPCB) can be electrically connected to the second circuit board PCB. The first circuit board (FPCB) can be, but is not limited to, a flexible film or a rigid printed circuit board such as a flexible printed circuit board. For example, the first circuit board (FPCB) can be a flexible printed circuit board.

[0027] The second circuit board (PCB) can be electrically connected to the display panel DSP via the first circuit board (FPCB) and can exchange signals with the driver circuit (DDC). The second circuit board (PCB) can provide image data, control signals, power voltage, etc., to the display panel DSP or the first circuit board (FPCB). Active and passive components can be disposed on the second circuit board (PCB). For example, a timing controller and a power supply unit can be disposed on the second circuit board (PCB). The second circuit board (PCB) can be, but is not limited to, a flexible printed circuit board or a rigid printed circuit board. For example, the second circuit board (PCB) can be a rigid printed circuit board.

[0028] The power supply unit can supply power voltage to the pixel (PX), gate driver, transmit driver, and data driver circuitry (DDC). The timing controller can control the operation of the gate driver, transmit driver, and data driver circuitry (DDC).

[0029] Various signals and voltages from a timing controller located on a second circuit board (PCB) can be supplied to the gate driver and emitter driver via the first circuit board (FPCB). These signals and voltages include gate timing control signals, emitter timing control signals, gate clock signals, emitter clock signals, gate start signals, emitter start signals, high-level voltages, and low-level voltages. For example, the gate driver can receive the gate timing control signals, gate clock signals, gate start signals, high-level voltages, and low-level voltages, while the emitter driver can receive the emitter timing control signals, emitter clock signals, emitter start signals, high-level voltages, and low-level voltages. Additionally, power signals from a power supply unit located on the second circuit board (PCB) can be supplied to the gate driver, emitter driver, and pixel (PX) via the first circuit board (FPCB). Power signals can include, for example, drive voltages, common voltages, initialization voltages, and bias voltages.

[0030] like Figure 2 As shown, multiple pad PDs can be disposed in the non-display area NDA of the display panel DSP. For example, the pad PDs can be disposed near the edge of the display panel DSP (e.g., the third side S3). Here, the pad PDs can be arranged along the third side S3. For example, the pad PDs can be arranged along the first direction DR1. More specifically, the pad PDs can be arranged in a row along the first direction DR1 and in a column along the second direction DR2.

[0031] The pad PD of the display panel DSP can be connected to multiple terminals (or bumps) of the driver circuit DDC, for example, Figure 6 (TN in the text). Figure 2 Among the pads PD, the pad PD positioned closer to the third side S3 (such as the input pad) can transmit signals from the first circuit board FPCB and the second circuit board PCB to the driver circuit DDC. Figure 2 Among the pads PD, the pads PD positioned closer to the display area DA (such as output pads) can transmit signals from the driver circuit DDC to the pixels PX of the display area DA.

[0032] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A magnified view of region A1. Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view taken by line I-I'. Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A magnified view of region A2.

[0033] The first pad connection electrode PCa can be disposed on the substrate SUB of the display panel DSP. Each of the first pad connection electrodes PCa can include a conductive material comprising molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), titanium (Ti), etc., and can be formed as a multilayer or a single layer comprising the above materials. The first insulating layer INS1 can be disposed on the first pad connection electrode PCa.

[0034] The second pad connection electrode PCb can be disposed on the first insulating layer INS1 to be stacked with the first pad connection electrode PCa. The second pad connection electrode PCb can be connected to the first pad connection electrode PCa. For this purpose, the extension of each second pad connection electrode PCb extending toward the display area DA can be connected to the fan-out line FL through a contact hole penetrating the first insulating layer INS1. The fan-out line FL can be integrally formed with the first pad connection electrode PCa. Each of the second pad connection electrodes PCb can include aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), calcium (Ca), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tungsten (W), and / or copper (Cu), and can be a single layer or multiple layers of the above materials.

[0035] A second insulating layer INS2 may be disposed on the second pad connection electrode PCb. The second insulating layer INS2 may contact (or directly contact) the second pad connection electrode PCb. The second insulating layer INS2 may have a pad contact hole PCH.

[0036] A first protruding pattern PT1 and a second protruding pattern PT2 may be disposed on each of the second pad connecting electrodes PCb. The first protruding pattern PT1 and the second protruding pattern PT2 may contact (or directly contact) each of the second pad connecting electrodes PCb. The first protruding pattern PT1 may comprise a polymeric material. Examples of polymeric materials may include acrylic resin, epoxy resin, polyimide, and polyethylene. The second protruding pattern PT2 may be made of the same material as the first protruding pattern PT1.

[0037] A pad PD can be disposed on a second insulating layer INS2, a first protruding pattern PT1, a second protruding pattern PT2, and a second pad connection electrode PCb. The pad PD can contact (or directly contact) the second insulating layer INS2, the first protruding pattern PT1, the second protruding pattern PT2, and the second pad connection electrode PCb. The pad PD can be connected to a fan-out line FL. For example, the pad PD can be connected to the fan-out line FL via the second pad connection electrode PCb and the first pad connection electrode PCa. The fan-out line FL can be connected to, for example, a data line. Each of the pad PDs can include a conductive material comprising molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), titanium (Ti), etc., and can be formed as a multilayer or a single layer comprising the above materials.

[0038] Since multiple protruding patterns PT1 and PT2 are arranged along the longitudinal direction of each pad PD (e.g., the second direction DR2), each pad PD on the protruding patterns PT1 and PT2 can have the following characteristics: Figure 4 The uneven shape is shown. For example, each pad PD may include a raised portion protruding along the third direction DR3 and a recessed portion in the opposite direction (hereinafter referred to as the third reverse direction). Specifically, the pad PD protrudes along the third direction DR3 on the protruding patterns PT1 and PT2 and is recessed in the third reverse direction between adjacent protruding patterns PT1 and PT2. The protrusion of the pad PD on the third direction DR3 may contact (or directly contact) the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC (see...). Figure 6 This establishes an electrical connection between the pad PD of the display panel DSP and the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC.

[0039] The first protruding pattern PT1 and the second protruding pattern PT2 can have different sizes. Therefore, in some embodiments, the areas of the first protruding pattern PT1 and the second protruding pattern PT2 can be different, and their thickness (or height) can also vary.

[0040] For example, in such Figure 3 In the plan view shown, the area of ​​the first protruding pattern PT1 can be smaller than the area of ​​the second protruding pattern PT2. Here, the area can be the dimension along the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. According to an embodiment, the area of ​​the first protruding pattern PT1 can be 0.17 to 0.99 times the area of ​​the second protruding pattern PT2. According to an embodiment, as... Figure 5 As shown, the width w1 of the first protruding pattern PT1 can be from 0.81 μm to 4.7 μm, and the width w2 of the second protruding pattern PT2 can be 4.8 μm. Here, the width can be a dimension in the second direction DR2. In other words, the width w1 of the first protruding pattern PT1 is smaller than the width w2 of the second protruding pattern PT2. The length of the first protruding pattern PT1 can be equal to the width w1 of the first protruding pattern PT1, and the length of the second protruding pattern PT2 can be equal to the width w2 of the second protruding pattern PT2. Here, the length can be a dimension in the first direction DR1.

[0041] When both the first protruding pattern PT1 and the second protruding pattern PT2 have a circular shape in the plan view, the width w1 and length of the first protruding pattern PT1 correspond to the diameter of the first protruding pattern PT1, and the width w2 and length of the second protruding pattern PT2 correspond to the diameter of the second protruding pattern PT2.

[0042] In such Figure 4 and Figure 5In the cross-section shown, the thickness (or height) tk1 of the first protruding pattern PT1 can be greater than the thickness (or height) tk2 of the second protruding pattern PT2. Here, the thickness (or height) tk1 or tk2 can be a dimension on the third-direction DR3. According to an embodiment, the thickness tk1 of the first protruding pattern PT1 can be 1.1 to 1.5 times the thickness tk2 of the second protruding pattern PT2. According to an embodiment, the thickness tk1 of the first protruding pattern PT1 can be greater than 2.1 μm, and the thickness tk2 of the second protruding pattern PT2 can be 2.1 μm.

[0043] According to an embodiment, the difference (e.g., the absolute value of the difference) between the area of ​​the first protruding pattern PT1 and the area of ​​the second protruding pattern PT2 can be greater than 0.

[0044] According to an embodiment, the difference (e.g., the absolute value of the difference) between the thickness tk1 of the first protruding pattern PT1 and the thickness tk2 of the second protruding pattern PT2 can be greater than 0.2 μm.

[0045] The first prominent pattern PT1 can have the following on the plan view: Figure 3 The quadrilateral shape shown is not limited to this, and the first protruding pattern PT1 can have various shapes such as circles and triangles in a plan view.

[0046] In such Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the cross-section shown, the first protruding pattern PT1 may have a parabolic or lens shape protruding in a third direction DR3 (e.g., toward the driver circuit DDC). However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first protruding pattern PT1 may have various shapes in the cross-section, such as quadrilaterals, ellipses, and trapezoids.

[0047] The second prominent pattern PT2 can have the following on the plan view: Figure 3 The quadrilateral shape shown is not limited to this. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this, and the second protruding pattern PT2 can have various shapes such as circles and triangles in the plan view.

[0048] In such Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the cross-section shown, the second protruding pattern PT2 may have a parabolic or lens shape protruding in a third direction DR3 (e.g., toward the driver circuit DDC). However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the second protruding pattern PT2 may have various shapes in the cross-section, such as quadrilaterals, ellipses, and trapezoids.

[0049] The first protruding pattern PT1 and the second protruding pattern PT2 can have the same shape. For example, in Figure 3In the plan view shown, the first protruding pattern PT1 and the second protruding pattern PT2 may have the same quadrilateral shape but different areas.

[0050] In such Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the cross-section shown, when the upper surface of each of the first protruding pattern PT1 and the second protruding pattern PT2 has a curved shape, the radius of curvature of the first protruding pattern PT1 can be smaller than the radius of curvature of the second protruding pattern PT2. For example, the upper surfaces of both the first protruding pattern PT1 and the second protruding pattern PT2 can be curved. The upper surfaces of the first protruding pattern PT1 and the second protruding pattern PT2 can face the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC (see...). Figure 6 ).

[0051] The modulus of the first protruding pattern PT1 can be less than or equal to the modulus of the second protruding pattern PT2. For example, when the modulus of the second protruding pattern PT2 is 1, the modulus of the first protruding pattern PT1 can be less than 1. For example, the elastic modulus of the first protruding pattern PT1 can be less than the elastic modulus of the second protruding pattern PT2.

[0052] The number of first protruding patterns PT1 and the number of second protruding patterns PT2 corresponding to a pad PD can be equal to each other. For example, as Figure 3 As shown, a pad PD can be disposed on three first protruding patterns PT1 and three second protruding patterns PT2. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the number of first protruding patterns PT1 and the number of second protruding patterns PT2 can be different from each other.

[0053] The first protruding pattern PT1 and the second protruding pattern PT2 corresponding to a single pad PD can be alternately arranged on the second pad connecting electrode PCb. For example, as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the first protruding pattern PT1 and the second protruding pattern PT2 can be alternately positioned along the longitudinal direction (or the extension direction, the second direction DR2) of the pad PD.

[0054] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the display device 100 when the display panel DSP and the driver circuit DDC are coupled in parallel to each other according to the embodiment.

[0055] like Figure 6As shown, the driver circuit DDC may include a substrate 300 (e.g., a wafer) and multiple terminals TN. The terminals TN of the driver circuit DDC may be disposed between the substrate 300 and the pad PD. Therefore, the terminals TN of the driver circuit DDC may be stacked with multiple first protruding patterns PT1 and multiple second protruding patterns PT2 corresponding to the pad PD. Multiple transistors (or chips) may be disposed on the substrate 300 of the driver circuit DDC. Therefore, the terminals TN of the driver circuit DDC may be connected to the transistors of the driver circuit DDC. Each of the terminals TN may include aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), calcium (Ca), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tungsten (W), and / or copper (Cu), and may be a single layer or multiple layers of the above materials.

[0056] A non-conductive NCF film can be disposed between the display panel DSP and the driver circuit DDC. For example, the non-conductive NCF film can be disposed between the pad PD of the display panel DSP and the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC. The display panel DSP and the driver circuit DDC can be bonded to each other through the non-conductive NCF film. The non-conductive NCF film can be made of materials including, for example, resin.

[0057] like Figure 6 As shown, when the display panel DSP and driver circuit DDC are joined substantially parallel to each other along the second direction DR2, each pad PD can contact the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC at both the first protruding pattern PT1 and the second protruding pattern PT2. For example, each pad PD can contact the terminal TN across all the protruding patterns PT1 and PT2. As a specific example, the three first protruding patterns PT1 can be designated as the first main protruding pattern MPT1, the second main protruding pattern MPT2, and the third main protruding pattern MPT3. Similarly, the three second protruding patterns PT2 can be designated as the first sub-protruding pattern SPT1, the second sub-protruding pattern SPT2, and the third sub-protruding pattern SPT3. In this case, the pad PD can contact (or directly contact) the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC at the first main protruding patterns MPT1 to the third main protruding patterns MPT3 and the first sub-protruding patterns SPT1 to the third sub-protruding patterns SPT3. Specifically, the pad PD can contact (or directly contact) the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC at the following multiple points: between the first main protrusion pattern MPT1 and the terminal TN; between the second main protrusion pattern MPT2 and the terminal TN; between the third main protrusion pattern MPT3 and the terminal TN; between the first sub-protrusion pattern SPT1 and the terminal TN; between the second sub-protrusion pattern SPT2 and the terminal TN; and between the third sub-protrusion pattern SPT3 and the terminal TN.

[0058] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the display device 100 when the display panel DSP and driver circuit DDC according to the embodiment are not coupled in parallel to each other.

[0059] like Figure 7 As shown, due to process conditions, the display panel DSP and driver circuit DDC can be joined in a non-parallel arrangement. For example, as... Figure 7 As shown, the interior angle θ formed by the display panel DSP and the driver circuit DDC can be an acute angle. Specifically, in cases such as Figure 7 In the cross-section shown, the interior angle θ formed by the lower surface of the protruding pattern PT1 or PT2 under the pad PD of the display panel DSP and the direction along which the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC extends (e.g., the fourth direction DR4) can be an acute angle. Here, the lower surface of the protruding pattern PT1 or PT2 can refer to, for example, the interface between the first protruding pattern PT1 and the second pad connection electrode PCb or the interface between the second protruding pattern PT2 and the second pad connection electrode PCb.

[0060] When the driver circuit DDC is inclinedly coupled to the display panel DSP along a diagonal direction (e.g., fourth direction DR4), each pad PD may contact the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC at some of the protruding patterns PT1 and PT2. For example, the pad PD may contact (or directly contact) the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC at the first main protruding pattern MPT1, the second main protruding pattern MPT2, the third main protruding pattern MPT3, the second sub-protruding pattern SPT2, and the third sub-protruding pattern SPT3. However, the pad PD may not contact the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC at the first sub-protruding pattern SPT1. Specifically, the pad PD may contact (or directly contact) the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC at the following locations: between the first main protruding pattern MPT1 and the terminal TN; between the second main protruding pattern MPT2 and the terminal TN; between the third main protruding pattern MPT3 and the terminal TN; between the second sub-protruding pattern SPT2 and the terminal TN; and between the third sub-protruding pattern SPT3 and the terminal TN. On the other hand, the pad PD may not contact the terminal TN between the first sub-protruding pattern SPT1 and the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC.

[0061] Since the display device 100 according to this embodiment includes protruding patterns PT1 and PT2 of different sizes, the reduction in contact area between the pad PD of the display panel DSP and the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC can be minimized even when the pad PD of the display panel DSP and the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC are joined in a non-parallel manner. For example, since the first protruding pattern PT1 has a smaller area but a larger thickness (or height) tk1 than the second protruding pattern PT2, the first protruding pattern PT1 can be easily deformed under lower pressure compared to the second protruding pattern PT2. In addition, since the first protruding pattern PT1 has a smaller radius of curvature than the second protruding pattern PT2, the first protruding pattern PT1 has a sharper shape toward the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC compared to the second protruding pattern PT2. Therefore, the first protruding pattern PT1 provides increased contact force and penetration force to the terminal TN, thereby enhancing the electrical connection. Therefore, even when the display panel DSP and the driver circuit DDC are joined at an angle, the first protruding pattern PT1 can easily deform under the joining pressure, thereby ensuring a firm contact. In addition, since the first protruding pattern PT1 presses the pad PD toward the terminal TN with high contact force and penetration, the reduction in the contact area between the pad PD of the display panel DSP and the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC is minimized, thus maintaining reliable electrical connectivity.

[0062] Furthermore, in the display device 100 according to the embodiment, since the first protruding pattern PT1 and the second protruding pattern PT2 have different thicknesses (or heights), the flowability of the non-conductive film NCF between the display panel DSP and the driver circuit DDC is improved. This improved flowability helps to optimize the distribution of the non-conductive film NCF, thereby enhancing the adhesion between the display panel DSP and the driver circuit DDC.

[0063] Figure 8 and Figure 9 This is a diagram used to explain the effect of the display device 100 according to an embodiment.

[0064] Figure 8 A portion of the display device 100 according to an embodiment is shown. Figure 9 A portion of the contrast display device is shown.

[0065] like Figure 8As shown, the display device 100 according to an embodiment includes protruding patterns PT1 and PT2 with different sizes. Therefore, even when the display panel DSP (e.g., the pad PD of the display panel DSP) and the driver circuit DDC (e.g., the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC) are not coupled parallel to each other, the pad PD of the display panel DSP and the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC can still contact each other at four contact points CP1, CP2, CP3, and CP4. For example, Figure 8 The pad PD can contact (or directly contact) the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC at the first main protrusion pattern MPT1, the second main protrusion pattern MPT2, the third main protrusion pattern MPT3 and the third sub-protrusion pattern SPT3.

[0066] On the other hand, such as Figure 9 As shown, the contrast display device includes raised patterns PT of the same size. Therefore, when the display panel DSP (e.g., the pad PD of the display panel DSP) and the driver circuit DDC (e.g., the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC) are not coupled parallel to each other, the pad PD of the display panel DSP and the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC can contact each other only at two contact points CP1 and CP2. For example, as... Figure 9 As shown, the pad PD contacts the terminal TN at two of the six protruding patterns PT, but does not contact the terminal TN at the remaining four protruding patterns PT.

[0067] Therefore, in the display device 100 of this embodiment, even when the display panel DSP and the driver circuit DDC are joined in a non-parallel manner, the reduction in the contact area between the pad PD of the display panel DSP and the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC can be minimized. Furthermore, even under such joining conditions, the contact resistance between the pad PD of the display panel DSP and the terminal TN of the driver circuit DDC can be minimized, thereby ensuring reliable electrical connectivity.

[0068] Figure 10 This is a tomographic image of a portion of the display device 100 according to an embodiment.

[0069] like Figure 10 As shown, a first protruding pattern PT1 and a second protruding pattern PT2 of different sizes can be disposed on the second pad connecting electrode PCb, and a pad PD can be disposed on the first protruding pattern PT1 and the second protruding pattern PT2.

[0070] In the display device according to the embodiment, the contact resistance between the display panel and the driver circuit can be minimized.

[0071] For example, the display device of the embodiment may include a protruding pattern with varying area and thickness. As a result, even when the display panel and driver circuitry are joined in a non-parallel manner, the reduction in contact area between the pads of the display panel and the terminals of the driver circuitry can be minimized. Therefore, the contact resistance between the pads and terminals remains low, thereby ensuring stable electrical connectivity.

[0072] However, the effects of this disclosure are not limited to those described herein. Additional effects will become more apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the claims.

[0073] The display device according to the embodiments can be applied to various electronic devices. The electronic device according to the embodiments includes the above-described display device, and may also include modules or devices with additional functions in addition to the display device.

[0074] Figure 11 This is a block diagram of the electronic device 50 according to an embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 11 The electronic device 50 may include a display module 11, a processor 12, a memory 13, and a power module 14. The electronic device 50 may also include an input module 15, an output module 16, and / or a communication module 17.

[0075] Electronic device 50 can output various information in the form of images through display module 11. When processor 12 executes an application stored in memory 13, the image information provided by the application can be provided to the user through display module 11. Power module 14 may include a power module such as a power adapter or battery device, and a power conversion module that converts the power supplied by the power module to generate the power required for the operation of electronic device 50. Input module 15 can provide input information to processor 12 and / or display module 11. Output module 16 can receive information other than images sent from processor 12 (such as sound, touch, and light) and provide the information to the user. Communication module 17 is responsible for sending and receiving information between electronic device 50 and external devices, and may include receiving unit and sending unit.

[0076] At least one of the components of the electronic device 50 described above may be included in the display device according to the embodiment described above. Furthermore, some of the modules functionally included in the electronic device 50 may be included in the display device, and other modules may be disposed separately from the display device. For example, although the display device includes a display module 11, components such as the processor 12, memory 13, and power module 14 may be implemented as separate devices within the electronic device 50, rather than as part of the display device itself.

[0077] Figure 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 14These are schematic diagrams of electronic devices according to various embodiments. Figures 12 to 14 Examples of various electronic devices that utilize a display device according to an embodiment are shown.

[0078] Figure 12 Examples of electronic devices are shown, including a smartphone 10_1a, a tablet PC 10_1b, a laptop computer 10_1c, a TV 10_1d, and a desktop monitor 10_1e.

[0079] In addition to the display module, the smartphone 10_1a may also include an input module such as a touch sensor and a communication module. The smartphone 10_1a can process information received through the communication module or other input modules and display the information through the display module of the display device.

[0080] In the case of tablet PC 10_1b, laptop computer 10_1c, TV 10_1d and desktop monitor 10_1e, similar to smartphone 10_1a, they also include a display module and an input module, and may additionally include a communication module.

[0081] Figure 13 An example of an electronic device is shown, including a display module for use in wearable electronic devices. The wearable electronic device may be a pair of smart glasses 10_2a, a head-mounted display 10_2b, a smartwatch 10_2c, etc.

[0082] The smart glasses 10_2a and the head-mounted display 10_2b may include a display module that emits and displays images and a reflector that reflects the emitted display screen and provides it to the user's eyes, thereby providing the user with virtual reality or augmented reality images.

[0083] The smartwatch 10_2c includes a biometric sensor as an input device and can provide users with biometric information identified by the biometric sensor through a display module. Figure 14 The illustration shows an application of the electronic device 10_3, including a display module, in a vehicle. For example, the electronic device 10_3 can be applied to the vehicle's dashboard, central instrument panel, etc., or it can be applied to a CID (Central Information Display) placed on the vehicle's dashboard or an interior mirror display that replaces the side mirrors.

[0084] In summarizing the detailed description, those skilled in the art will understand that many variations and modifications can be made to the disclosed embodiments without substantially departing from the principles of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A display device, the display device comprising: Display panel; A driver circuit is connected to a pad on the display panel; as well as A first protruding pattern and a second protruding pattern are disposed between the base of the display panel and the pad and protrude toward the terminals of the driver circuit. The area of ​​the first protruding pattern is smaller than the area of ​​the second protruding pattern, and the thickness of the first protruding pattern is greater than the thickness of the second protruding pattern.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first protruding pattern and the second protruding pattern are alternately arranged along the direction in which the pad extends.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The number of the first protruding pattern and the number of the second protruding pattern are equal.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The number of the first protruding pattern and the second protruding pattern are different.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The modulus of the first protruding pattern is less than or equal to the modulus of the second protruding pattern.

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The surface of each of the first and second protruding patterns facing the terminal has a curved shape.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein, The radius of curvature of the first protruding pattern is smaller than the radius of curvature of the second protruding pattern.

8. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first protruding pattern and the second protruding pattern have the same shape.

9. The display device according to claim 8, wherein, Each of the first and second protruding patterns has a quadrilateral shape in the plan view.

10. The display device according to claim 8, wherein, Each of the first and second protruding patterns has a parabolic or lens shape in cross-section.

11. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first and second protruding patterns are made of the same material.

12. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The display panel and the driver circuit are arranged parallel to each other.

13. The display device according to claim 12, wherein, The direction along which the pad of the display panel extends is parallel to the direction along which the terminal of the driver circuit extends.

14. The display device according to claim 13, wherein, The pad contacts the terminal between the first protruding pattern and the terminal, and also contacts the terminal between the second protruding pattern and the terminal. Each of the first protruding pattern and the second protruding pattern is configured as a plurality of protruding patterns, and the pad contacts the terminal between the plurality of first protruding patterns and the terminal and between the plurality of second protruding patterns and the terminal.

15. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The display panel and the driver circuit are arranged in a non-parallel configuration.

16. The display device according to claim 15, wherein, The direction in which the pad of the display panel extends is not parallel to the direction in which the terminal of the driver circuit extends.

17. The display device according to claim 16, wherein, The angle formed by the direction along which the pad of the display panel extends and the direction along which the terminal of the driver circuit extends is an acute angle.

18. The display device according to claim 16, wherein, The pad contacts the terminal between the second protruding pattern and the terminal. Each of the first protruding pattern and the second protruding pattern is configured in multiples, and the pad contacts the terminal between some of the multiple first protruding patterns and between some of the multiple second protruding patterns.

19. An electronic device, the electronic device comprising: Display device, including screen, The display device includes: a display panel; a driver circuit; a pad connected to the display panel; and a first protruding pattern and a second protruding pattern disposed between the base of the display panel and the pad and protruding toward the terminals of the driver circuit. The area of ​​the first protruding pattern is smaller than the area of ​​the second protruding pattern, and the thickness of the first protruding pattern is greater than the thickness of the second protruding pattern.

20. A display device, the display device comprising: Display panel; A driver circuit is connected to a pad on the display panel; as well as Multiple protruding patterns are disposed between the base of the display panel and the pad, the multiple protruding patterns protruding toward the terminals of the driver circuit. The plurality of protruding patterns include protruding patterns with different sizes and / or thicknesses.

Images