Display module, display device and driving method of electrolytic structure

Abstract

The invention provides a display module, a display device and a driving method of an electrolytic structure. The display module comprises a display area and a non-display area. The non-display area comprises an electrolytic structure at least partially surrounding the display area, the electrolytic structure comprises an electrolytic layer and an electrode body, and the electrode body is located on the surface of one side of the electrolytic layer. The non-display area further comprises a flexible circuit board, and the flexible circuit board is electrically connected with the electrode body. According to the display module, the electrolysis structure is arranged on the periphery of the display area, water vapor in the environment is electrolyzed, and therefore the risk of water vapor invasion is reduced, and the packaging reliability of the display module is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of display technology, and in particular to a driving method for a display module, a display device, and an electrolytic structure. Background Technology

[0002] Organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) possess advantages such as energy efficiency, fast response, flexibility, ultra-thinness, and low cost, and their mass production technology is becoming increasingly mature. From a market demand perspective, with the rapid development of OLEDs, improving the reliability of OLED modules is crucial. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide a driving method for a display module, a display device, and an electrolytic structure to solve the problem of poor reliability in existing OLED module packaging.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a display module comprising a display area and a non-display area; the non-display area includes an electrolytic structure at least partially surrounding the display area, the electrolytic structure comprising an electrolytic layer and an electrode body, the electrode body being located on one side surface of the electrolytic layer; the non-display area further includes a flexible circuit board, the flexible circuit board being electrically connected to the electrode body.

[0005] Furthermore, the electrode body includes at least one first electrode and at least one second electrode, the first electrode and the second electrode being disposed at a distance from each other on the same side surface of the electrolytic layer; the flexible circuit board is electrically connected to the first electrode and the second electrode respectively; Preferably, a plurality of first electrodes and a plurality of second electrodes are provided on the surface of the electrolytic layer away from the display area, the first electrodes and the second electrodes are arranged in multiple staggered rows, and the spacing between adjacent first electrodes and second electrodes is less than or equal to 1 mm.

[0006] Furthermore, the material of the electrolytic layer includes metallic materials; Preferably, the metallic material includes at least one of copper, silver, and aluminum; Preferably, the material of the first electrode includes at least one of copper, aluminum, and titanium, and / or the material of the second electrode includes at least one of copper, aluminum, and titanium; Preferably, the first electrode and the second electrode are made of the same material.

[0007] The display module further includes a water-absorbing layer located within the non-display area and at least partially surrounding the side of the electrolytic structure opposite to the display area. Preferably, the material of the absorbent layer includes a water-soluble polymer material; Preferably, the water-soluble polymer material includes one of water-absorbing resin, polyvinyl alcohol, and methyl cellulose.

[0008] Furthermore, at least one humidity detector is provided on the surface or inside of the absorbent layer, and the humidity detectors are evenly distributed along the circumferential direction of the absorbent layer; the humidity detectors are electrically connected to the flexible circuit board; Preferably, the display area has a rectangular shape, and at least one humidity detector is provided at equal intervals on the absorbent layer corresponding to the opposite sides of the rectangle; Preferably, the humidity detector includes a thin-film pressure sensor.

[0009] Furthermore, the display module also includes a control circuit located in the non-display area and disposed on the side of the absorbent layer opposite to the electrolytic structure; the control circuit is electrically connected to the flexible circuit board.

[0010] Furthermore, the display module also includes a substrate; a driving layer, a light-emitting layer, an encapsulation layer, a touch layer, a polarizing layer, an adhesive layer, and a cover plate are sequentially stacked along a direction perpendicular to and away from the substrate; the electrolytic structure at least partially surrounds the light-emitting layer; Preferably, the adhesive layer is made of optical adhesive.

[0011] Furthermore, the cover plate includes a light-shielding area and a light-transmitting area, wherein the orthographic projection of the light-shielding area on the substrate is located within the non-display area; Preferably, the orthographic projection of the electrolytic structure on the substrate is located within the orthographic projection range of the light-shielding area on the substrate; the orthographic projection of the water-absorbing layer on the substrate is located within the orthographic projection range of the light-shielding area on the substrate. Preferably, the material of the light-shielding area includes ink.

[0012] The present invention also provides a display device, the display device comprising the display module as described above.

[0013] The present invention also provides a driving method for an electrolytic structure, used to drive the electrolytic structure in a display module as described above, the method comprising: The humidity detector collects ambient humidity information and transmits it to the control circuit via a flexible circuit board. The control circuit determines whether to start electrolysis based on the ambient humidity information. When the ambient humidity information is greater than the threshold, the control circuit transmits voltage to the first and second electrodes of the electrolytic structure through the flexible circuit board. After the first and second electrodes are turned on, an electric field is generated, and the electrolytic layer of the electrolytic structure is electrolyzed under the action of the electric field. Electrolysis will not be initiated when the ambient humidity information is less than the threshold. Preferably, the threshold for the ambient humidity information is 30%RH.

[0014] The present invention proposes a display module that, by setting an electrolytic structure around the display module, can electrolyze water vapor in the surrounding environment, thereby reducing the risk of water vapor intrusion and improving the reliability of the display module packaging. Attached Figure Description

[0015] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0016] Figure 1 This is a top view of the display module in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the electrolytic structure in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a top view of the display module in another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a top view of the absorbent layer in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the electrolytic structure and the flexible circuit board in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of a display module in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a flowchart of the driving method for the electrolytic structure in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] The components in the diagram are shown below: 200, Display module; 10, Display area; 20, Non-display area; 30, Electrolytic structure; 31, Electrolytic layer; 32, Electrode body; 321, First electrode; 322, Second electrode; 33, Pad; 331, First pad; 332, Second pad; 40, Flexible circuit board; 41, Third pad; 50, Control circuit; 60, Water-absorbing layer; 61, Humidity detector; 70, Substrate; 80, Driving layer; 90, Light-emitting layer; 100, Encapsulation layer; 110, Touch layer; 120, Polarizing layer; 130, Adhesive layer; 140, Cover plate; 141, Light-shielding area; 142, Light-transmitting area. Detailed Implementation

[0018] The following description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, illustrates preferred embodiments of the present invention, demonstrating its implementability. These embodiments provide a complete overview of the invention for those skilled in the art, making its technical content clearer and easier to understand. The present invention can be embodied in many different forms of embodiments, and the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments mentioned herein.

[0019] In the accompanying drawings, components with the same structure are indicated by the same numerical designation, and components with similar structures or functions are indicated by similar numerical designations. The dimensions and thicknesses of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrary, and the present invention does not limit the dimensions and thicknesses of each component. To make the illustrations clearer, the thickness of components is appropriately exaggerated in some places in the drawings.

[0020] Furthermore, the following descriptions of the embodiments of the invention are made with reference to the accompanying illustrations, illustrating specific embodiments in which the invention can be implemented. Directional terms used in this invention, such as "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "inner," "outer," and "side," are merely directional references to the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the use of directional terms is for better and clearer explanation and understanding of the invention, and does not indicate or imply that the referred device or element must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation; therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0021] When a component is described as being "on" another component, the component may be placed directly on the other component; alternatively, there may be an intermediate component on which the component is placed, and the intermediate component is placed on the other component. When a component is described as being "installed to" or "connected to" another component, both can be understood as being directly "installed" or "connected" to, or as being indirectly "installed to" or "connected to" another component via an intermediate component.

[0022] The key material in OLED devices within display modules is the ultrathin organic electroluminescent layer, which is extremely sensitive to water and oxygen. Therefore, OLED devices have extremely stringent encapsulation requirements. Currently, the mainstream encapsulation method involves depositing alternating inorganic and organic barrier layers onto the surface of the OLED device's metal electrodes. This method avoids the vacuum-breaking process required for OLED devices, preventing the metal electrodes from contacting water, oxygen, dust, and other impurities, thus ensuring the long lifespan of the OLED device. However, with prolonged use or deteriorating environmental conditions, encapsulation failure is inevitable. Therefore, it is necessary to propose a solution to improve the reliability of OLED module encapsulation.

[0023] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this invention provides a display module. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the display module 200 includes a display area 10 and a non-display area 20. The non-display area 20 includes an electrolytic structure 30 that at least partially surrounds the display area 10. The electrolytic structure 30 includes an electrolytic layer 31 and an electrode body 32, with the electrode body 32 located on one side surface of the electrolytic layer 31. The non-display area 20 also includes a flexible circuit board 40, which is electrically connected to the electrode body 32. The electrolytic structure 30 surrounding the display area 10 can electrolyze water vapor to produce hydrogen and oxygen before discharging them, thereby reducing the risk of water vapor intrusion and improving the reliability of the display module 200.

[0024] In one embodiment of the present invention, the electrode body 32 includes at least one first electrode 321 and at least one second electrode 322, with the first electrode 321 and the second electrode 322 spaced apart on the same side surface of the electrolytic layer 31. The first electrode 321 and the second electrode 322 are electrically connected to the flexible circuit board 40, respectively. For example, the first electrode 321 can be connected to the flexible circuit board 40 via a first transmission line, and the second electrode 322 can also be connected to the flexible circuit board 40 via the first transmission line. The first and second transmission lines can be made of metal wires with good conductivity, used to stably transmit the operating voltage to the first electrode 321 and the second electrode 322 on the electrolytic layer 31 via the flexible circuit board 40. An electric field is thus formed between the first electrode 321 and the second electrode 322. Under the action of the electric field, the electrolytic structure 30 electrolyzes water vapor to produce hydrogen and oxygen, which are then discharged, thereby reducing the risk of water vapor intrusion and improving the reliability of the display module 200.

[0025] In this embodiment, the display module 200 also includes a control circuit 50, which is located within the non-display area 20 and disposed on the side of the electrolytic structure 30 opposite to the display area 10. The control circuit 50 is electrically connected to the flexible circuit board 40 and is used to provide voltage to the system. Specifically, the control circuit 50 includes a control unit and an output unit. The control unit is electrically connected to the output unit, and the output unit is electrically connected to the flexible circuit board 40, establishing an electrical connection. During operation, the control unit in the control circuit 50 sends control commands to the output unit according to a preset program; the output unit responds to the control commands and outputs the required electrolytic voltage; then, through the flexible circuit board 40, the first potential of this voltage is transmitted to the first electrode 321 of the electrolytic structure 30 via the first transmission line, and through the flexible circuit board 40, the second potential of this voltage is transmitted to the second electrode 322 of the electrolytic structure 30 via the second transmission line; an electric field is formed between the first electrode 321 and the second electrode 322, and then water vapor undergoes an electrolytic reaction on the electrolytic layer 31 of the electrolytic structure 30, producing hydrogen and oxygen before being discharged, thereby reducing the risk of water vapor intrusion and improving the reliability of the display module 200. In some embodiments, the first electrode 321 can be an anode, the second electrode 322 can be a cathode, the first potential can be a positive potential, and the second potential can be a negative potential; or the first electrode 321 is a cathode, the second electrode 322 is an anode, the first potential is a negative potential, and the second potential is a positive potential. In this embodiment of the invention, the first electrode 321 is an anode, the second electrode 322 is a cathode, the first potential is a positive potential, and the second potential is a negative potential. When there is a large amount of moisture in the environment surrounding the display module 200, water molecules undergo an electrolytic reaction under the action of the electric field formed between the first electrode 321 and the second electrode 322, i.e. Subsequently Hydrogen gas is formed at the cathode by gaining electrons. ), At the anode, electrons are lost to form oxygen and water. Finally, the hydrogen and oxygen produced by electrolysis are discharged from the outside of the module in gaseous form through the gaps in the electrolysis structure 30, effectively reducing the accumulation of water vapor inside the module, thereby improving the overall reliability and service life of the module.

[0026] In this embodiment of the invention, the voltage range required for the electrolytic decomposition of water vapor is 1.5V-2.0V, while the voltage range on the display module 200 is 3.3V-5.0V. Therefore, the operating voltage of the electrolytic structure 30 can be 1.5V-2.0V, for example, 1.5V, 1.6V, 1.7V, 1.8V, 1.9V, or 2.0V. To improve electrolysis efficiency, the control circuit 50 can also provide a higher voltage to the electrolytic structure 30, such as 2.5V, 3.0V, 3.5V, 4.0V, 4.5V, or 5.0V. In some embodiments, the electrolytic layer 31 can be made of a metal material with good conductivity, such as at least one of copper, aluminum, and silver. Furthermore, to accelerate the electrolysis of water molecules and improve electrolysis efficiency, the material of the electrolytic layer 31 can also contain a small amount of active metal as a catalyst, such as at least one of sodium, potassium, and calcium. The electrolytic layer 31 containing a small amount of active metal can promote the electrolysis reaction. In this embodiment of the invention, the material of the first electrode 321 includes at least one selected from copper, aluminum, and titanium. The material of the second electrode 322 includes at least one selected from copper, aluminum, and titanium. In some embodiments, the first electrode 321 and the second electrode 322 may be made of the same material.

[0027] like Figure 2 As shown, in another embodiment of the present invention, the electrode body 32 includes a plurality of first electrodes 321 and a plurality of second electrodes 322, which are disposed on the surface of the electrolysis layer 31 away from the display area 10. The first electrodes 321 and the second electrodes 322 are arranged in multiple staggered rows, and the distance between adjacent first electrodes 321 and second electrodes 322 is less than or equal to 1 mm, for example, 0.2 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.8 mm, or 1 mm. The multi-point distributed electrodes allow the electrolysis layer 31 to perform electrolysis reactions in multiple regions simultaneously, improving the system response speed and processing capacity. The staggered arrangement of multiple electrodes can improve electrolysis efficiency. When a voltage is applied between the first electrodes 321 and the second electrodes 322, the staggered electrodes form a dense electric field distribution in the electrolysis layer 31, effectively enhancing the intensity of the electric field's effect on water molecules and promoting water molecule electrolysis. Meanwhile, the staggered arrangement creates multiple parallel ion transport channels, enabling positive and negative ions generated during electrolysis to reach their respective electrodes via the shortest path. This effectively reduces the probability of ion recombination during transport, further improving overall electrolysis efficiency. Furthermore, shorter electrode spacing means a stronger electric field can be generated at the same voltage, or a lower operating voltage can be used to achieve the same electrolysis effect, thereby reducing the overall power consumption of the system.

[0028] In this embodiment, multiple first electrodes 321 are electrically connected to the flexible circuit board 40 via corresponding first transmission lines, and multiple second electrodes 322 are electrically connected to the flexible circuit board 40 via corresponding second transmission lines. However, too many voltage transmission lines can easily lead to insufficient module space and chaotic connections. Therefore, in one embodiment of the present invention, multiple first electrodes 321 and multiple second electrodes 322 are electrically connected to the flexible circuit board 40 via corresponding conductive connecting strips. Specifically, all first electrodes 321 are simultaneously electrically connected to the first conductive connecting strip, which is then electrically connected to the flexible circuit board 40 via a first transmission line; similarly, all second electrodes 322 are simultaneously electrically connected to the second conductive connecting strip, which is then electrically connected to the flexible circuit board 40 via a second transmission line 350. In this embodiment, both the first and second conductive connecting strips can be made of metal materials with good conductivity, such as copper, aluminum, or silver. The first conductive connecting strip connects multiple dispersed first electrodes 321, giving them the same potential; the second conductive connecting strip connects multiple dispersed second electrodes 322, giving them a potential opposite to that of the first electrodes 321. With this connection method, the entire electrode array only requires two voltage transmission lines to be powered. Compared to a scheme where each electrode is connected to a separate voltage transmission line, this connection method significantly reduces the number of wires, avoids complex line crossings, reduces manufacturing difficulty and production costs, and simultaneously improves system reliability and ease of maintenance.

[0029] During operation, the control unit of the control circuit 50 sends a control signal to the output unit, which then outputs the required electrolytic voltage. This voltage's first potential is then transmitted to the first conductive connecting strip via the first transmission line through the flexible circuit board 40, and its second potential is transmitted to the second conductive connecting strip via the second transmission line through the flexible circuit board 40. Immediately afterwards, the first electrode 321 and the second electrode 322 receive potentials from the first and second conductive connecting strips respectively, thus forming an electric field. The electrolytic reaction then begins on the electrolytic layer 31 of the electrolytic structure 30. Finally, the hydrogen and oxygen produced by electrolysis are discharged from the gaps in the electrolytic structure 30, reducing the moisture content in the environment surrounding the display module 200, lowering the risk of moisture intrusion, and improving the module's reliability and lifespan.

[0030] In another embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of first electrodes 321 and a plurality of second electrodes 322 are provided on the surface of the electrolytic layer 31 near and away from the display area 10. The first electrodes 321 and the second electrodes 322 on each side surface are arranged in multiple staggered rows, and the distance between adjacent first electrodes 321 and second electrodes 322 is less than or equal to 1 mm, for example, 0.2 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.8 mm, or 1 mm. Further, in order to reduce the number of wirings, the first electrodes 321 and the second electrodes 322 on each side surface are respectively connected to the first conductive connecting strip and the second conductive connecting strip. The first conductive connecting strip and the second conductive connecting strip are then electrically connected to the flexible circuit board 40 through a first transmission line and a second transmission line, respectively. Therefore, when the control unit of the control circuit 50 sends a control signal to the output unit, and the output unit outputs the required electrolytic voltage, the first potential of the electrolytic voltage can be transmitted to the first conductive connecting strip through the flexible circuit board 40 via the first transmission line, and the second potential of the voltage can be transmitted to the second conductive connecting strip through the flexible circuit board 40 via the second transmission line. Then, the first electrode 321 and the second electrode 322 receive potential from the first conductive connecting strip and the second conductive connecting strip respectively, thereby being turned on to form an electric field. Under the action of the electric field, the electrolytic layer 31 of the electrolytic structure 30 undergoes an electrolytic reaction, reducing the damage of water vapor intrusion to the module and improving the reliability of the module packaging.

[0031] In another embodiment of the invention, the electrolytic structure 30 can be electrically connected to the flexible circuit board 40 via metal pads thereon. Specifically, as shown... Figure 3 As shown, the electrolytic structure 30 includes two sets of pads 33: a first pad 331 and a second pad 332. The pads 33 are disposed on the surface of the electrolytic layer 31, and the first electrode 321 is electrically connected to the first pad 331, and the second electrode 322 is electrically connected to the second pad 332. The flexible circuit board 40 has multiple third pads 41 at its end near the display area 10. These third pads 41 are electrically connected to the first pads 331 and the second pads 332 on the electrolytic layer 31, thereby providing the voltage required for electrolysis to the electrolytic structure 30. In this embodiment, the electrical connection between the pads can be achieved through a bonding process. The feasible steps include: aligning the first pads 331 and the second pads 332 with the third pads 41 of the flexible circuit board 40; and fastening the first pads 331 and the second pads 332 together with the third pads 41 using a thermosetting bonding process. In this embodiment, anisotropic conductive film (ACF) can be used as the bonding and conductive medium. The conductive particles in the ACF are deformed under hot pressure to form a vertical electrical connection between the first pad 331 / second pad 332 and the third pad 41, while the film itself can also provide reliable adhesion. In some embodiments, the position of the pad 33 can be optimized according to the position and wiring of the flexible circuit board 40, so that the space utilization of the entire module is high.

[0032] In one embodiment of the present invention, the flexible circuit board 40 can be made of a substrate with good flexibility and heat resistance, such as polyimide or polyester. Specifically, conductive patterns are formed on the substrate using photolithography or other printing techniques, then copper foil is laminated onto the substrate, and excess copper is removed by etching to form the desired circuit pattern. The flexible circuit board 40 can be bent, folded, or even rolled up to adapt to various complex shapes and confined spaces. The flexible circuit board 40 is thinner and lighter than a printed circuit board, reducing device weight, and it enables high-density circuit design, supporting smaller electronic products.

[0033] In another embodiment of the present invention, to further improve the electrolysis efficiency of the electrolysis structure 30, the display module 200 may further include a water-absorbing layer 60. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the absorbent layer 60 is disposed within the non-display area 20 and at least partially surrounds the side of the electrolytic structure 30 opposite to the display area 10. The absorbent layer 60 actively adsorbs and concentrates moisture from the environment surrounding the module, thereby inhibiting moisture from entering the module through other pathways. This improves both electrolytic efficiency and module reliability. Subsequently, the electrolytic layer 31 electrolyzes the moisture concentrated by the absorbent layer 60 and discharges the generated gas outside the system, thereby improving the reliability of the display module 200 and extending its service life. In this embodiment, the absorbent layer 60 can be made of water-soluble polymer materials such as water-absorbing resin, polyvinyl alcohol, or hydroxypropyl methylcellulose. These materials not only possess excellent water absorption properties but also good chemical stability. Figure 5As shown, in another embodiment of the present invention, at least one humidity detector 61 is provided on the surface or inside of the water-absorbing layer 60 for real-time detection of the relative humidity of the environment surrounding the module. For higher accuracy, the humidity detectors 61 are uniformly distributed along the circumferential direction of the water-absorbing layer 60 and are electrically connected to the flexible circuit board 40. For example, the humidity detectors 61 are electrically connected to the flexible circuit board 40 via signal lines. In some specific examples, the humidity detector 61 can be a thin-film pressure sensor, which can be fabricated by a metal patterning etching process on the surface of the water-absorbing layer. Specifically, the process of electrolyzing water vapor in the module is as follows: the humidity detectors 61 on the water-absorbing layer 60 detect the environment in real time and transmit the collected environmental humidity information to the control circuit 50 via the flexible circuit board 40. Then, the control circuit 50 analyzes the ambient humidity information to determine whether electrolysis needs to be initiated. When the ambient humidity information is greater than a set threshold, the control unit in the control circuit 50 sends a control command to the output unit. The output unit outputs the required electrolysis voltage according to the command. Then, the first potential of the electrolysis voltage is transmitted to the first electrode 321 of the electrolysis layer 31 via the first transmission line through the flexible circuit board 40, and the second potential of the electrolysis voltage is transmitted to the second electrode 322 of the electrolysis layer 31 via the second transmission line through the flexible circuit board 40. After the first electrode 321 and the second electrode 322 are turned on, an electric field is generated, and the electrolysis layer 31 can undergo an electrolysis reaction under the action of the electric field. If the ambient humidity information is less than the set threshold, the control unit in the control circuit 50 controls the output unit not to output voltage, that is, not to initiate electrolysis. In this embodiment of the invention, the threshold for ambient humidity information is set to 30%RH (relative humidity). In some more stringent usage scenarios, the threshold for ambient humidity information can also be lower, such as 10%RH. A humidity detector 61 is installed on the surface of the water-absorbing layer 60 to enable the operation and shutdown of the electrolysis structure 30. This not only avoids ineffective electrolysis and improves electrolysis efficiency, but also saves system power consumption.

[0034] Continue to refer to Figure 5In one embodiment of the present invention, the display area 10 is rectangular in shape, and at least one humidity detector 61 is provided at equal intervals on the absorbent layer 60 corresponding to opposite sides of the rectangle. Specifically, the rectangle includes two opposite long sides and two opposite short sides, and a humidity detector 61 is provided at the middle position on the absorbent layer 60 corresponding to the two opposite long sides and the two opposite short sides, respectively. Each humidity detector 61 is electrically connected to the flexible circuit board 40 through an independent signal line. In addition, multiple rows of staggered first electrodes 321 and second electrodes 322 are provided on the four side surfaces surrounding the electrolytic layer 310 and away from the display area 10. All first electrodes 321 on each side surface are simultaneously connected to the corresponding first conductive connecting strip, and all second electrodes 322 on the same side surface are simultaneously connected to the corresponding second conductive connecting strip. In this embodiment, four first conductive connecting strips and four second conductive connecting strips are provided. Then, the four first conductive connecting strips and four second conductive connecting strips are electrically connected to the flexible circuit board 40 through four first transmission lines and four second transmission lines, respectively. The flexible circuit board 40 is then electrically connected to the control circuit 50 to form a conductive path. All humidity detectors 61 transmit the collected ambient humidity information to the control circuit 50 via the flexible circuit board 40. The control circuit 50 analyzes the ambient humidity information and determines whether electrolysis needs to be initiated: when the ambient humidity exceeds a set threshold, the control unit in the control circuit 50 controls the output unit to supply electrolysis voltage to the first and second conductive connecting strips in the corresponding area via the flexible circuit board 40, based on the location of the excessive area. This causes the first electrode 321 and the second electrode 322 in that area to be conductive, forming an electric field, thereby causing the electrolysis layer 31 in that area to undergo an electrolysis reaction, reducing the water content in the surrounding environment of the module. If the ambient humidity is less than the set threshold, the control unit in the control circuit 50 controls the output unit not to provide voltage, i.e., electrolysis is not initiated. This multi-point detection and control method can accurately identify specific areas with excessive moisture content, enabling targeted electrolysis operations and avoiding energy waste caused by full-scale activation. Zoned control also reduces unnecessary working time of the electrolysis layer 31, effectively extending the product's service life and reducing maintenance costs.

[0035] like Figure 6 As shown, the display module 200 also includes a substrate 70. Along a direction perpendicular to and away from the substrate 70, a driving layer 80, a light-emitting layer 90, an encapsulation layer 100, a touch layer 110, a polarizing layer 120, an adhesive layer 130, and a cover plate 140 are sequentially stacked. The electrolytic structure 30 is configured to at least partially surround the light-emitting layer 90. Preferably, the adhesive layer 130 is made of optical adhesive. The electrolytic structure 30 reduces moisture intrusion through an electrolytic reaction, thereby protecting the light-emitting layer 90, extending its lifespan, and improving its stability.

[0036] This design is primarily based on targeted protection of the inherent characteristics of the OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) device in the light-emitting layer 90. The core light-emitting material and metal cathode of OLED devices are extremely sensitive to moisture. Even trace amounts of moisture can cause chemical degradation of the organic material and oxidation of the cathode, leading to a sharp drop in luminous efficiency, the appearance of black spots, and ultimately, device failure. Therefore, OLED devices have stringent requirements for the encapsulation environment. While traditional thin-film encapsulation layers (i.e., encapsulation layer 100) can effectively block most moisture, microscopic defects may still exist during long-term use, or moisture may not be able to completely prevent slow penetration through the interface. To address this, the electrolytic structure 30, through its electrolytic reaction, can actively reduce the trace amounts of moisture penetrating the module, converting them into harmless substances, thus providing supplementary protection for the light-emitting layer 90. Setting the electrolytic structure 30 to at least partially surround the light-emitting layer 90 is precisely to construct a three-dimensional "purification barrier" to counter potential moisture threats from all directions. Whether moisture intrudes from the sides of the module or diffuses to the edges after penetrating the upper layers from top to bottom, this surrounding structure effectively suppresses and reduces it before it reaches the core light-emitting area. This setup greatly improves the reliability and coverage of the protection, minimizes the aging of OLED devices, and enhances the module's lifespan and stability.

[0037] Furthermore, the cover plate 140 includes a light-shielding area 141 and a light-transmitting area 142. The orthographic projection of the light-shielding area 141 onto the substrate 70 is located within the non-display area 20, and its surface is coated with ink. To ensure that the electrolytic structure 30 and the water-absorbing layer 60 can be located within the non-transparent non-display area 20 after the light-shielding area 141 has been baked and cured, the orthographic projection of the electrolytic structure 30 onto the substrate 70 is located within the orthographic projection range of the light-shielding area 141 onto the substrate 70; and the orthographic projection of the water-absorbing layer 60 onto the substrate 70 is located within the orthographic projection range of the light-shielding area 141 onto the substrate 70.

[0038] In one embodiment of the present invention, the substrate 70 can be a rigid substrate 11 made of materials such as glass or plastic, or a flexible substrate 11 made of materials such as polyethersulfone (PES), polyacrylate (PAR), polyetherimide (PEI), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyarylate, polyimide (PI), polycarbonate (PC), or cellulose acetate propionate (CAP). A driving circuit for controlling the light emission of the light-emitting layer 90 is disposed within the driving layer 80. The driving layer 80 is generally composed of inorganic film layers such as a metal layer, a semiconductor layer (active layer), and an insulating layer. By patterning these inorganic film layers, a driving circuit for controlling the light emission of the light-emitting layer 90 can be formed. The specific circuit structure can be implemented in various ways, which will not be elaborated here. The light-emitting layer 90 may include multiple spaced-apart light-emitting units, which may include light-emitting units of different colors. For example, it may include blue light-emitting units, red light-emitting units, and green light-emitting units arranged at intervals. In addition, each pixel unit can also have four or more light-emitting units, including light-emitting units of other colors such as white, in addition to the three light-emitting units mentioned above. Each light-emitting unit includes a third electrode, a light-emitting device layer, and a fourth electrode stacked sequentially, with the third electrode disposed on the driving layer 80. The light-emitting device layer includes a hole injection layer HIL, a hole transport layer HTL, an electron blocking layer EBL, a light-emitting material layer EML, a hole blocking layer HBL, an electron transport layer ETL, and an electron injection layer EIL. When the third and fourth electrodes are energized, electrons and holes migrate from the electron transport layer ETL and the hole transport layer HTL to the light-emitting material layer EML, respectively, and meet in the light-emitting material layer EML to form excitons that excite the light-emitting molecules, thereby generating visible light to achieve the purpose of display. One of the third and fourth electrodes can serve as the anode of the light-emitting layer 90, and the other as the cathode of the light-emitting layer 90. The light-emitting layer 90 can also include a pixel definition layer, which includes a pixel defining portion and a pixel opening formed by the pixel defining portion enclosure, with the light-emitting unit located within the pixel opening. There are various ways to set the material of the pixel definition layer. For example, the pixel definition layer can be formed using at least one inorganic insulating material selected from silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxide (SiOx), and silicon oxynitride (SiON). The pixel definition portion can reduce crosstalk between each light-emitting unit and improve the display effect of the display module 200. The encapsulation layer 100 is disposed on the side of the light-emitting layer 90 facing away from the substrate 70. The encapsulation layer 100 may include a first encapsulation sublayer, a second encapsulation sublayer, and a third encapsulation sublayer disposed sequentially in a direction away from the substrate 70. The first and third encapsulation sublayers may include inorganic materials such as silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), or silicon oxynitride (SiON), while the second encapsulation sublayer may include an organic material.The first encapsulation layer protects each light-emitting unit from external environmental factors (such as air and water), preventing air and moisture from penetrating into the display module 200 and extending the lifespan and stability of the light-emitting units. The first encapsulation layer also prevents impurities and harmful substances from entering the display module 200, thus ensuring the performance and quality of the display module 200. The organic material of the second encapsulation layer possesses unique flexibility and excellent adhesion. Compared to inorganic materials, organic materials are better able to adapt to the minute deformations that the display module 200 may undergo under different environments, and will not crack due to bending or thermal expansion and contraction of the module. The combination of multiple encapsulation layers—the first, second, and third encapsulation layers—further improves the encapsulation effect of the display module 200.

[0039] Secondly, this invention also provides a driving method for an electrolytic structure, which can be used to drive the electrolytic structure in the display module as described above. Figure 7 This is a flowchart of the driving method for the electrolysis structure in an embodiment of the present invention. Specifically: S100: The humidity detector collects ambient humidity information and transmits it to the control circuit via a flexible circuit board; S200: The control circuit determines whether to start electrolysis based on ambient humidity information; S300: When the ambient humidity information is greater than the threshold, the control circuit transmits the voltage to the first and second electrodes of the electrolytic structure through the flexible circuit board. After the first and second electrodes are turned on, an electric field is generated, and the electrolytic layer of the electrolytic structure is electrolyzed under the action of the electric field. S400: Electrolysis will not be started when the ambient humidity information is less than the threshold.

[0040] The process of electrolyzing water vapor in the display module can be understood as follows: First, the humidity detector 61 on the water-absorbing layer 60 detects the environment in real time and transmits the collected environmental humidity information to the control circuit 50 via the flexible circuit board 40. Then, the control circuit 50 analyzes the environmental humidity information to determine whether electrolysis needs to be started. The logic for the determination is as follows: When the environmental humidity information is greater than a set threshold, the control unit in the control circuit 50 sends a control command to the output unit; the output unit then outputs the required electrolysis voltage according to the command; the first potential of the electrolysis voltage is then transmitted to the first electrode 321 of the electrolysis layer 31 via the first transmission line through the flexible circuit board 40; and the second potential of the electrolysis voltage is transmitted to the second electrode 322 of the electrolysis layer 31 via the second transmission line through the flexible circuit board 40. After the first electrode 321 and the second electrode 322 are turned on, an electric field is generated, and the electrolysis reaction occurs in the electrolysis layer 31 under the action of the electric field. When the environmental humidity information is less than the set threshold, the control unit in the control circuit 50 controls the output unit not to output voltage, that is, not to start electrolysis. In this embodiment, the threshold for environmental humidity information can be set to 30%RH (relative humidity). In some more demanding applications (such as industrial applications), the threshold for ambient humidity can be lowered, for example, set to 10%RH. A humidity detector 61 is installed within the absorbent layer 60 to control the operation and shutdown of the electrolysis structure 30. This not only avoids ineffective electrolysis and improves electrolysis efficiency but also saves system power consumption.

[0041] Thirdly, this embodiment of the invention also provides a display device, which includes the display module described above. The display module includes an array substrate, an OLED light-emitting layer, etc. The display device can be any device with display function, such as a mobile device like a mobile phone, tablet computer, laptop computer, PDA, in-vehicle electronic device, wearable device, Ultra Mobile Personal Computer (UMPC), netbook, or Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), or a non-mobile device like a personal computer (PC), television (TV), ATM, or self-service machine.

[0042] In this embodiment of the invention, by setting an electrolytic layer and a water-absorbing layer around the display area of ​​the module in the non-display area, water vapor in the environment is electrolyzed, and the generated hydrogen and oxygen are discharged outside the module, thereby reducing the risk of water vapor intrusion and improving the reliability of the display module packaging.

[0043] While the invention has been described herein with reference to specific embodiments, it should be understood that these embodiments are merely examples of the principles and applications of the invention. Therefore, it should be understood that many modifications can be made to the exemplary embodiments, and other arrangements can be designed without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. It should be understood that different dependent claims and features described herein can be combined in ways different from those described in the original claims. It is also understood that features described in conjunction with individual embodiments can be used in other described embodiments.

Claims

1. A display module, characterized in that, Includes display area and non-display area; The non-display area includes an electrolytic structure that at least partially surrounds the display area. The electrolytic structure includes an electrolytic layer and an electrode body, with the electrode body located on one side surface of the electrolytic layer. The non-display area also includes a flexible circuit board, which is electrically connected to the electrode body.

2. The display module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrode body includes at least one first electrode and at least one second electrode, the first electrode and the second electrode being disposed at a distance on the same side surface of the electrolytic layer; the flexible circuit board is electrically connected to the first electrode and the second electrode respectively. Preferably, a plurality of first electrodes and a plurality of second electrodes are provided on the surface of the electrolytic layer away from the display area, the first electrodes and the second electrodes are arranged in multiple staggered rows, and the spacing between adjacent first electrodes and second electrodes is less than or equal to 1 mm.

3. The display module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The material of the electrolytic layer includes metallic materials; Preferably, the metallic material includes at least one of copper, silver, and aluminum; Preferably, the material of the first electrode includes at least one of copper, aluminum, and titanium, and / or the material of the second electrode includes at least one of copper, aluminum, and titanium; Preferably, the first electrode and the second electrode are made of the same material.

4. The display module according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: An absorbent layer is located within the non-display area and at least partially surrounds the side of the electrolytic structure opposite to the display area. Preferably, the material of the absorbent layer includes a water-soluble polymer material; Preferably, the water-soluble polymer material includes one of water-absorbing resin, polyvinyl alcohol, and methyl cellulose.

5. The display module according to claim 4, characterized in that, At least one humidity detector is provided on the surface or inside of the absorbent layer, and the humidity detectors are evenly distributed along the circumferential direction of the absorbent layer; the humidity detectors are electrically connected to the flexible circuit board. Preferably, the display area has a rectangular shape, and at least one humidity detector is provided at equal intervals on the absorbent layer corresponding to the opposite sides of the rectangle; Preferably, the humidity detector includes a thin-film pressure sensor.

6. The display module according to claim 5, characterized in that, Also includes: The control circuit is located in the non-display area and is disposed on the side of the absorbent layer opposite to the electrolytic structure. The control circuit is electrically connected to the flexible circuit board.

7. The display module according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: Substrate; A driving layer, a light-emitting layer, an encapsulation layer, a touch layer, a polarizing layer, an adhesive layer, and a cover plate are sequentially stacked along a direction perpendicular to and away from the substrate; the electrolytic structure at least partially surrounds the light-emitting layer; Preferably, the adhesive layer is made of optical adhesive.

8. The display module according to claim 7, characterized in that, The cover plate includes a light-shielding area and a light-transmitting area, and the orthographic projection of the light-shielding area on the substrate is located within the non-display area; Preferably, the orthographic projection of the electrolytic structure on the substrate is located within the orthographic projection range of the light-shielding area on the substrate; the orthographic projection of the water-absorbing layer on the substrate is located within the orthographic projection range of the light-shielding area on the substrate. Preferably, the material of the light-shielding area includes ink.

9. A display device, characterized in that, Includes the display module as described in any one of claims 1-8.

10. A driving method for an electrolytic structure, used to drive the electrolytic structure in a display module as described in any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, include: The humidity detector collects ambient humidity information and transmits it to the control circuit via a flexible circuit board. The control circuit determines whether to start electrolysis based on the ambient humidity information. When the ambient humidity information is greater than the threshold, the control circuit transmits voltage to the first and second electrodes of the electrolytic structure through the flexible circuit board. After the first and second electrodes are turned on, an electric field is generated, and the electrolytic layer of the electrolytic structure is electrolyzed under the action of the electric field. Electrolysis will not be initiated when the ambient humidity information is less than the threshold. Preferably, the threshold for the ambient humidity information is 30%RH.

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