Display panel, display device and manufacturing method
By setting a receiving groove in the peripheral area of the display panel to fill the second encapsulation layer and using a blocking dam to prevent ink overflow, the problem of the difficulty in balancing tensile performance and encapsulation effect in the existing encapsulation technology is solved, and higher device reliability and lifespan are achieved.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- BOE TECHNOLOGY GROUP CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2024-11-21
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-22
AI Technical Summary
Existing packaging technologies for stretchable display panels struggle to simultaneously guarantee both the stretchability of the device and the packaging effect. In particular, the inorganic thin film layer is easily punctured, or organic ink overflow causes the connecting bridges to lose their elasticity.
A receiving groove is set in the peripheral area of the display panel, which is filled with a second encapsulation layer. The ink overflow is blocked by the barrier dam, and excess material is prevented from entering the cutout area. The combined structure of inorganic and organic encapsulation layers optimizes the encapsulation effect.
It improves the tensile strength and packaging reliability of the display panel, prevents ink spillage, protects the elasticity of the connecting bridge, and extends the device life.
Smart Images

Figure CN122073935A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of display technology, and in particular to a display panel, display device, and manufacturing method. Background Technology
[0002] Stretchable display technology is considered the next generation of flexible display technology after foldable display technology, with broad application prospects in wearable devices, automotive displays, and other fields. To achieve the stretchability of the display device, it is typically designed as an "island-bridge structure," where the device is internally divided into rigid display islands and elastic connecting bridges. The connecting bridges contain serpentine metal wires that deform under external tension without breaking, thus giving the organic light-emitting device a certain degree of stretchability. The packaging method of the display islands has a significant impact on the performance and lifespan of the organic light-emitting device, and the packaging effect of related technologies is often insufficient to meet requirements. Summary of the Invention
[0003] In view of this, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a display panel, a display device and a method of manufacturing it.
[0004] To achieve the above objectives, this disclosure provides a display panel, the display panel including at least one display island; the display island includes a display area and a peripheral area surrounding the display area;
[0005] The display island includes a first substrate and a second encapsulation layer located on the first substrate;
[0006] The peripheral area includes at least one receiving groove; the second encapsulation layer fills the receiving groove.
[0007] Based on the same inventive concept, this disclosure also provides a method for manufacturing a display panel, the display panel including a display island; the display island including a display area and a peripheral area surrounding the display area; the manufacturing method includes:
[0008] A first barrier dam and a sacrificial layer are formed in the surrounding area; the sacrificial layer covers the sidewall of the first barrier dam away from the display area and at least part of its end face.
[0009] A second barrier dam is formed on the sacrificial layer; the second barrier dam covers the sidewall of the sacrificial layer away from the display area and at least part of the end face;
[0010] Remove the sacrificial layer to form a receiving groove.
[0011] Based on the same inventive concept, embodiments of this disclosure also provide a display device, including any of the aforementioned display panels.
[0012] As can be seen from the above description, this disclosure provides a display panel, a display device, and a manufacturing method. Specifically, the display panel includes at least one display island; the display island includes a display area and a peripheral area surrounding the display area; the display island includes a first substrate and a second encapsulation layer located on the first substrate; the peripheral area includes at least one receiving groove; the second encapsulation layer fills the receiving groove. By employing this technical method, and by setting the receiving groove, excess material forming the second encapsulation layer is filled into the receiving groove, preventing excess material from spreading to the cutout area between the display island and the connecting bridge, thus avoiding damage to the tensile properties of the device. Attached Figure Description
[0013] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in this disclosure or related technologies, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only embodiments of this disclosure. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.
[0014] Figure 1A The diagram illustrates a partial structural schematic of a stretchable display panel provided by a related technology.
[0015] Figure 1B The diagram illustrates a partial structural cross-sectional view of a stretchable display panel provided by related technologies.
[0016] Figure 1C This diagram illustrates a partial structural schematic of yet another stretchable display panel provided by related technologies.
[0017] Figure 2A This diagram shows a partial structural schematic of a stretchable display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0018] Figure 2B This diagram illustrates a partial structural schematic of yet another stretchable display panel provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0019] Figure 2C Show Figure 2A Schematic diagram of the cross section along line A-A';
[0020] Figure 2D Show Figure 2A An enlarged view of dashed box B;
[0021] Figure 2E Show Figure 2A Another enlarged view of the dashed box B;
[0022] Figure 2F Show Figure 2A Another enlarged view of the dashed box B;
[0023] Figure 2G Show Figure 2A Another schematic diagram of a cross section along line A-A';
[0024] Figure 2H Show Figure 2A Another schematic diagram of a cross section along line A-A';
[0025] Figure 2I Show Figure 2A Another schematic diagram of a cross section along line A-A';
[0026] Figure 2J This diagram illustrates a partial structural schematic of yet another stretchable display panel provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0027] Figure 2K Show Figure 2J A schematic diagram of a cross-section along line A-A';
[0028] Figures 3A-3E Show Figure 2C A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the intermediate structure in the manufacturing method of a stretchable display panel;
[0029] Figures 4A-4B Show Figure 2G A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the intermediate structure in the manufacturing method of a stretchable display panel;
[0030] Figures 5A-5E Show Figure 2K A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the intermediate structure in the manufacturing method of a stretchable display panel. Detailed Implementation
[0031] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this disclosure clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with specific embodiments and the accompanying drawings.
[0032] It should be noted that, unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in the embodiments of this disclosure should have the ordinary meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. The terms "first," "second," and similar terms used in the embodiments of this disclosure do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different components. Terms such as "comprising" or "including" mean that the element or object preceding the word encompasses the elements or objects listed following the word and their equivalents, without excluding other elements or objects. Terms such as "connected" or "linked" are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, but can include electrical connections, whether direct or indirect. Terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," and "right" are used only to indicate relative positional relationships; when the absolute position of the described object changes, the relative positional relationship may also change accordingly.
[0033] In the accompanying drawings, the thickness and shape of some layers and regions may be exaggerated for better understanding and ease of description. When using terms such as "above," "over," "below," and "beside" to describe the positional relationship between two components, one or more components may be located between the two components unless these terms are used in conjunction with the terms "immediately" or "directly." When one element or layer is placed "on" another element or layer, additional layers or elements may be directly inserted onto or between that other element.
[0034] Figure 1A This diagram illustrates a partial structural schematic of a stretchable display panel provided by related technologies. Figure 1A Two rigid display islands 100 and 100' are drawn, each including a display area D1 and a peripheral area D2 surrounding the display area D1. The display area D1 may include at least one pixel unit. Each pixel unit includes three pixel sub-units, displaying red, blue, and green respectively. Exemplarily, the light-emitting device of each pixel sub-unit may be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED).
[0035] The two display islands 100 and 100' are connected by an elastic connecting bridge D3. The connecting bridge D3 has serpentine metal wires, and there is a cutout area D4 between the connecting bridge D3 and the display islands 100 and 100'. Due to the cutout area D4 and the serpentine metal wires, the connecting bridge D3 can deform without breaking when subjected to external tension.
[0036] As described in the background section, the packaging structure of the display islands 100 and 100' has a significant impact on the performance and lifespan of the display panel. Figure 1B This image shows a partial structural cross-sectional view of a stretchable display panel provided by related technologies. Figure 1B As can be seen, the display island includes a driving layer 101 and a light-emitting film layer 102 located on top of the driving layer 101. The connecting bridge D3 includes a metal wire layer 112. An inorganic thin film layer 118 is disposed on the light-emitting film layer 102 and the metal wire layer 112 to encapsulate the display island and the connecting bridge D3. Because the inorganic thin film layer 118 is relatively thin, it is difficult to encapsulate larger particles. When pressure is applied to the top of the display panel, the particles can easily pierce the inorganic thin film layer 118, leading to water and oxygen intrusion and causing the light-emitting device to fail.
[0037] The related technology also provides an alternative packaging method. Figure 1C This diagram illustrates a partial structural schematic of yet another stretchable display panel provided by related technologies. For example... Figure 1CAs shown, a first encapsulation layer 118, a second encapsulation layer 120, and a third encapsulation layer 121 are stacked on the light-emitting film layer 102. The first encapsulation layer 118 and the third encapsulation layer 121 are formed of inorganic materials; the second encapsulation layer 120 is formed of organic materials. Although the three-layer stacked encapsulation structure can effectively encapsulate particles, it affects the tensile properties of the display panel. This is because the second encapsulation layer 120 is usually manufactured using inkjet printing. The display island area is small, and the ink droplets ejected by the inkjet printer are too large. Organic ink easily overflows into the hollow area D4 of the stretchable display device. After the ink solidifies, it easily causes the connecting bridge D3 and the display island to stick together, causing the metal wire layer 112 within the connecting bridge D3 to lose its elasticity, thus affecting the tensile properties of the display panel.
[0038] Therefore, this disclosure provides a display panel, a display device, and a manufacturing method. Specifically, the display panel includes at least one display island; the display island includes a display area and a peripheral area surrounding the display area; the display island includes a first substrate and a second encapsulation layer located on the first substrate; the peripheral area includes at least one receiving groove; the second encapsulation layer fills the receiving groove. By employing this technical solution, the receiving groove is provided so that excess material forming the second encapsulation layer fills the receiving groove, preventing excess material from spreading to the cutout area between the display island and the connecting bridge, thus avoiding damage to the tensile properties of the device.
[0039] Figure 2A This illustration shows a partial structural diagram of a stretchable display panel provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2B This diagram illustrates a partial structural schematic of yet another stretchable display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The display island 200 includes a display area D1 and a peripheral area D2 surrounding the display area D1. The display area D1 includes at least one pixel unit, for example, the display area D1 includes one pixel unit (such as...). Figure 2A As shown), for example, display area D1 includes two pixel units (such as...). Figure 2B (As shown). See also Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, the peripheral area D2 of the display island 200 is provided with a receiving groove area D5. Here, the receiving groove area D5 increases the volume of encapsulated ink liquid that the display island 200 can hold. Furthermore, the peripheral area D2 also has a blocking dam area D6 on the side of the receiving groove area D5 away from the display area D1. The blocking dam area D6 can block the ink, preventing it from overflowing into the cutout area of the stretchable display panel, ensuring the stretchability of the display panel while improving encapsulation reliability.
[0040] Figure 2C Show Figure 2A A schematic diagram of the cross section along line A-A'. Figure 2G Show Figure 2A Another cross-sectional diagram along line A-A'; Figure 2HShow Figure 2A Another schematic diagram of a cross section along line A-A'; Figure 2I Show Figure 2A Another schematic diagram of a cross section along line A-A'; Figure 2K Show Figure 2J A schematic diagram of a cross-section along line A-A'. (See below for details.) Figure 2C , Figure 2G , Figure 2H , Figure 2I , Figure 2K The structure of the display panel is described in detail.
[0041] The display panel includes two substrates: an elastic substrate 201 (corresponding to the second substrate) and a flexible substrate 203 (corresponding to the first substrate). An optical adhesive layer 202 is disposed between the elastic substrate 201 and the flexible substrate 203. Exemplarily, the material of the elastic substrate 201 may be polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). Exemplarily, the material of the flexible substrate 203 may be polyimide (PI). A driving layer, a light-emitting film layer, and an encapsulation film layer are formed on the flexible substrate 203 located in the display area D1.
[0042] In some embodiments, a barrier layer 204 and a buffer layer 205 are disposed on the side of the flexible substrate 203 away from the elastic substrate 201, and a driving layer is disposed on the side of the buffer layer 205 away from the substrate 203. The material of the barrier layer 204 can be a metal oxide, such as alumina, zirconium oxide, etc.; the material of the buffer layer 205 can be SiO2, SiN, etc., and this disclosure does not limit the material.
[0043] Further, the driving layer includes an active layer 206, a first insulating layer 207, a first gate layer 208, a second insulating layer 209, a second gate layer 210, a third insulating layer 211 (inter-layer dielectric, ILD), and a source / drain layer 212 (corresponding to the first electrode layer). The first insulating layer 207 covers the active layer 206; the second insulating layer 209 covers the first gate layer 208; the third insulating layer 211 covers the second gate layer 210; and the source / drain layer 212 connects the three insulating layers 207, 209, and 211 to the active layer 206. It should be noted that the active layer 206, the first gate layer 208, the second gate layer 210, and the source / drain layer 212 can form at least one thin-film transistor (TFT). Those skilled in the art can choose suitable materials to form the driving layer, and this disclosure does not limit this choice.
[0044] In some embodiments, a first planarization layer 213 is provided on the source-drain layer 212 and the third insulating layer 211. It should be noted that the first planarization layer 213 exposes at least a portion of the source-drain layer 212 so that the thin-film transistors of the driving layer can control the light-emitting devices in the light-emitting film layer.
[0045] Furthermore, such as Figure 2C , Figure 2G , Figure 2H , Figure 2I , Figure 2K As shown, the light-emitting film layer includes a second electrode layer 214 (corresponding to the anode layer), a pixel definition layer 215, a light-emitting layer 216, and a third electrode layer 217 (corresponding to the cathode layer). Here, the light-emitting layer 216 can be fabricated by methods such as chemical vapor deposition, and this disclosure does not limit it.
[0046] In some embodiments, a first encapsulation layer 218, a second encapsulation layer 220, and a third encapsulation layer 221 are formed on the side of the light-emitting film layer away from the driving layer. Optionally, the materials of the first encapsulation layer 218 and the third encapsulation layer 221 can be inorganic materials, such as SiNx, SiO2, and SiON. The second encapsulation layer 220 can be an organic material, such as polymethyl methacrylate, polycarbonate, polystyrene board, and polyethylene terephthalate-1,4-cyclohexanediol ester.
[0047] Furthermore, barrier layer 204, buffer layer 205, first insulating layer 207, second insulating layer 209, third insulating layer 211, first encapsulation layer 218, second encapsulation layer 220 and third encapsulation layer 221 extend to peripheral region D2.
[0048] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2C As shown, the peripheral area D2 is provided with at least one receiving groove 224. Optionally, the receiving groove 224 can penetrate the first encapsulation layer 218, the third insulating layer 211, the second insulating layer 209, the first insulating layer 207, and the buffer layer 205. By providing the receiving groove 224, the ink forming the second encapsulation layer 220 can fill the receiving groove 224, thereby increasing the ink holding capacity of the display island 200 and preventing ink overflow.
[0049] Here, the number of receiving slots 224 can be one or more, and this disclosure does not limit this. Exemplarily, the number of receiving slots 224 can be one, and the receiving slot 224 extends in the direction surrounding the display area D1. Exemplarily, the number of receiving slots 224 can be multiple, and their specific arrangement can be flexibly set. Figure 2D Show Figure 2A An enlarged view of the dashed box B. (Example) Figure 2D As shown, multiple receiving slots (e.g., first receiving slot 2241, second receiving slot 2242) can be arranged in a direction away from the display area D1. Figure 2E Show Figure 2A Another enlarged view of the dashed box B, such as... Figure 2E As shown, multiple receiving slots (e.g., first receiving slot 2241, second receiving slot 2242) can be arranged in a direction surrounding the display area D1. Figure 2F Show Figure 2A Another enlarged view of the dashed box B, such as... Figure 2F As shown, the multiple receiving slots (e.g., the first receiving slot 2241, the second receiving slot 2242, and the third receiving slot 2243) can be Figure 2D and Figure 2E This disclosure does not limit the combination of the two arrangements.
[0050] To further reduce the risk of ink overflow from the second encapsulation layer 220, at least one blocking dam 219, 225 is provided in the peripheral area D2. Specifically, at least one blocking dam 219, 225 is located on the side of the receiving groove 224 away from the display area D1. With this structural arrangement, the blocking dams 219, 225 can block the ink, thereby reducing the risk of overflow and ensuring encapsulation quality without affecting the stretchability of the stretchable display panel.
[0051] Optionally, the distance between the tallest of at least one of the barrier dams 219 and 225 and the flexible substrate 203 is not less than the distance between the second package 220 and the flexible substrate 203. Here, the distance between the second package 220 and the flexible substrate refers to the distance between the surface of the second package layer 220 away from the flexible substrate and the flexible substrate 203.
[0052] Furthermore, such as Figure 2C , Figure 2G , Figure 2H , Figure 2I and Figure 2K As shown, the connecting bridge D3 includes a second planarization layer 222, a first electrode layer 212, a third planarization layer 223, a first encapsulation layer 218, and a third encapsulation layer 221 disposed between the flexible substrates 203. Optionally, the third encapsulation layer 221 can encapsulate the entire connecting bridge to achieve encapsulation of the connecting bridge.
[0053] A cutout area D4 exists between the connecting bridge D3 and the display island. The first electrode layer 212 of the connecting bridge D3 extends from the first electrode layer 212 of the display island, enabling connection between different display islands. Optionally, the orthographic projection of the first electrode layer 212 onto the flexible substrate 203 and the orthographic projection of the receiving groove 224 onto the flexible substrate 203 do not overlap. This structure helps ensure that the receiving groove 224 does not sever the connection between the display islands. To increase the volume of the receiving groove 224, receiving grooves 224 are provided around the display area D1, except for the wiring area of the first electrode layer 212.
[0054] In some alternative embodiments, such as Figure 2G As shown, the first encapsulation layer 218 is not penetrated by the receiving groove 224, but extends to the sidewalls and bottom of the receiving groove 224. This structure, where the first encapsulation layer 218 covers the receiving groove 224, can extend the path for moisture to enter from the side, optimizing the encapsulation effect.
[0055] In some alternative embodiments, such as Figure 2H As shown, the first encapsulation layer 218 can cover the barrier dam 219, which can also extend the intrusion path of moisture and improve the reliability of the device.
[0056] In some alternative embodiments, such as Figure 2I As shown, the first package 218 not only extends to the sidewalls and bottom of the receiving groove 224, but also covers and encapsulates the barrier dam 219, enhancing the encapsulation effect of the display island.
[0057] Figure 2C , Figures 2G to 2I In the cross-sectional view of the display panel shown, the blocking dam 219 and the receiving groove 224 are two independent structures, resulting in a wider peripheral area of the display island. To reduce the encapsulation bezel, this disclosure also provides an alternative embodiment.
[0058] Figure 2J This diagram illustrates a partial structural schematic of yet another stretchable display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2JAs shown, the peripheral area D2 only has a blocking dam area D6, but no receiving groove area D5. By setting multiple blocking dams in the blocking dam area D6, and forming receiving grooves by at least partially embedding adjacent blocking dams, there is no need to set a separate receiving groove area, thereby achieving the technical effect of reducing the encapsulation border.
[0059] Furthermore, such as Figure 2K As shown, at least one barrier dam includes a first barrier dam 219 and a second barrier dam 225. The first barrier dam 219 is at least partially embedded in the second barrier dam 225, and there is a certain space between them, forming a receiving groove 224 for accommodating excess material of the second encapsulation layer 220. Exemplarily, the first barrier dam 219 and the second barrier dam 225 can be arranged in a direction perpendicular to the flexible substrate 203, which can minimize the encapsulation border.
[0060] Figures 3A-3E Show Figure 2C A cross-sectional diagram of the intermediate structure in the fabrication method of a stretchable display panel. The following is combined with... Figures 3A-3E As shown, for Figure 2C The method for manufacturing the stretchable display panel shown is illustrated by way of example.
[0061] first, Figure 3A The diagram shows a display island, connecting bridges, and a cutout area. The driving layer and some of the light-emitting film layers 214 and 215 on the display island have been fabricated, as have the first electrode layer 212 and multiple planarization layers 222 and 223 on the connecting bridge. The fabrication of the driving layer and some of the light-emitting film layers can be flexibly selected as needed, and this disclosure does not limit this selection. The cutout area in the stretchable display island is formed by removing the material between the connecting bridge and the display island through an etching process.
[0062] It should be noted that the flexible substrate 203 is disposed on the glass substrate 226.
[0063] Next, Figure 3A The structure shown involves fabricating a light-emitting layer 216 and a cathode layer 217 using a vapor deposition process, followed by the deposition of a first encapsulation film layer 218 (Thin Film Encapsulation, TFE). Figure 3B As shown.
[0064] Optionally, the first encapsulation film 218 can be deposited using methods such as chemical vapor deposition (CVD) or atomic layer deposition (ALD), and its composition can be SiN. xInorganic films such as SiO2 and SiON are used to block moisture and optimize the spreading of inkjet-printed organic layers on devices.
[0065] Considering the etching process in subsequent processes, the first encapsulation film layer 218 is preferably a single-component film layer to reduce the difficulty of etching.
[0066] Then, on one side of the edge of the display island, i.e., the peripheral area, an opening is formed by etching that penetrates the first encapsulation film layer 218, the third insulating layer 211, the second insulating layer 209, the first insulating layer 207, and the buffer layer 5. This opening is called the overflow receiving groove 224. Figure 3C As shown.
[0067] Optionally, except for the wiring area (here referring to the area where the first electrode layer 212 extends to the connecting bridge), the overflow receiving groove 224 surrounds the entire display island.
[0068] Next, a barrier dam 219 is prepared on the outermost side of the display island to further prevent inkjet printing ink overflow, such as... Figure 3C As shown.
[0069] Compared to the triple-layer packaging of related technologies, the height of the barrier dam 219 in the stretchable display device provided in this disclosure embodiment can be appropriately reduced to improve structural stability. Depending on the display island size and film thickness, the volume of the overflow receiving groove 224 is 1–20 pL, for example, 5 pL, 10 pL, 12 pL, 15 pL, 18 pL, 20 pL, etc. Given that the droplet size ejected from the inkjet printer head is approximately 10 pL, the presence of the overflow receiving groove 224 can effectively contain the droplets and reduce the risk of overflow.
[0070] Then, the second encapsulation layer 220 and the third encapsulation layer 221 are fabricated. The second encapsulation layer 220 is prepared using inkjet printing and is composed of acrylic materials, such as polymethyl methacrylate, polycarbonate, polystyrene board, and polyethylene terephthalate-1,4-cyclohexanediol, etc., to prevent particles from damaging the functional layers. Figure 3D As shown.
[0071] In some embodiments, the third encapsulation layer 221 is prepared by methods such as CVD and ALD, and its composition is SiN. x A combination of one or more of SiO2 and SiON is used to block moisture intrusion.
[0072] Finally, the flexible substrate 203 and its structure above it are separated from the glass substrate 226 using a laser lift-off (LLO) process. Then, the flexible substrate 203 is bonded to the elastic substrate 201 coated with an optical adhesive layer 202, thus completing the fabrication of the stretchable display panel. Figure 3E As shown.
[0073] Figures 4A-4B Show Figure 2G A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the intermediate structure in the manufacturing method of a stretchable display panel.
[0074] like Figure 4A As shown, between the fabrication of the first encapsulation film layer 218, an overflow receiving groove 224 surrounding the inner ring of the display island is formed by etching process, and then a blocking dam 219 is prepared by coating, exposure and development.
[0075] Next, the light-emitting layer 216 and the cathode layer 217 are prepared on the display island by vapor deposition. Then, the first encapsulation layer 218, the second encapsulation layer 220, and the third encapsulation layer 221 are prepared sequentially by CVD, ALD, inkjet printing, etc. Figure 4B As shown.
[0076] The first encapsulation layer 218 and the third encapsulation layer 221 are prepared by CVD, ALD and other methods, and are composed of SiN. x The material of the second encapsulation layer 220 is one or more of SiO2 and SiON, used to block moisture intrusion, and the material of the second encapsulation layer 220 is as described above, used to block particles.
[0077] The final step of peeling off the flexible substrate 203 and the structure above it from the glass substrate 226 is as described above and will not be repeated here.
[0078] In such a display panel, the first encapsulation layer 218 covers the overflow containment groove 224 formed by etching, which can extend the path of moisture intrusion from the side and optimize the encapsulation effect.
[0079] for Figure 2H , Figure 2I The method for manufacturing the display panel can be obtained by adjusting the manufacturing order of the first encapsulation layer 218 and the receiving groove 224, which will not be described in detail in this disclosure.
[0080] Figures 5A-5E Show Figure 2K A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the intermediate structure in the fabrication method of a stretchable display panel. First, Figure 5A and Figure 3A Similarly, I will not elaborate further.
[0081] Next, in the area between the edge of the display island and the outer side of the display area, i.e., the peripheral area, a first barrier dam 219 and a sacrificial layer 227 (SL) are prepared, such as... Figure 5B As shown.
[0082] Optionally, the first barrier dam 219 is prepared by coating, exposure, and development, and can be an organic adhesive. The sacrificial layer 227 is composed of an easily sublimable organic material (e.g., aluminum 8-hydroxyquinoline, abbreviated as Alq3) or a metal material that is easily wet-etched (e.g., Cu, Mo, and Al). It should be noted that the metal material of the sacrificial layer 227 cannot use the same etching solution as indium tin oxide (ITO), and can be prepared by methods such as vapor deposition or physical vapor deposition (PVD).
[0083] Then, a second barrier dam 225 is prepared on the outside of the sacrificial layer 227 by means of coating, exposure, and development, such as... Figure 5C As shown. The material used for the second barrier dam 225 can be the same as that for Dam 1 19, or a similar material that serves the same function; this disclosure does not limit this. It should be noted that the second barrier dam 225 is higher than the first barrier dam 219. Optionally, the first barrier dam 219 is at least partially embedded within the second barrier dam 225.
[0084] Next, the sacrificial layer 227 is removed. If the material of the sacrificial layer 227 is Alq3, a thermal evaporation process is used to remove the Alq3. If the material of the sacrificial layer 227 is metal, it is removed using a corresponding etching solution. After removing the sacrificial layer 227, the following is formed: Figure 5C In the structure shown, a cavity is formed between the first barrier dam 219 and the second barrier dam 225, forming an overflow receiving groove 224, which allows a certain amount of inkjet printing ink to be stored, thereby preventing overflow. Optionally, except for the wiring area (corresponding to the area where the first electrode layer extends to the connecting bridge), the overflow receiving groove 224 surrounds the entire display island. Optionally, the first barrier dam 219 and the second barrier dam 225 can be arranged substantially vertically, which can reduce the package bezel compared to a conventional double barrier dam structure.
[0085] Then, as Figure 5D As shown, a light-emitting layer 216 and a cathode layer 217 are prepared in the display area by a vapor deposition process, and then a first encapsulation layer 218 is deposited. This film can be deposited using methods such as CVD or ALD, and can be composed of SiN. x Inorganic films such as SiO2 and SiON are used to block moisture and optimize the spreading of inkjet-printed organic layers on the device. A second encapsulation layer 221 is then prepared, optionally using inkjet printing, to prevent particles from damaging the functional layers (e.g., the light-emitting layer). After the ink spreads, excess ink flows into the overflow reservoir, preventing ink from overflowing into the cutout area.
[0086] Finally, referring to the foregoing, the third package 221 is fabricated, the glass substrate 226 is separated, and the elastic substrate 201 is bonded, as follows. Figure 5E As shown, no further details will be provided.
[0087] Based on the same inventive concept, this disclosure provides a display panel. (See reference...) Figures 2A to 2K As shown, the display panel includes at least one display island 200; the display island 200 includes a display area D1 and a peripheral area D2 surrounding the display area (e.g., Figure 2A , Figure 2J (as shown);
[0088] The display island 200 includes a first substrate (corresponding to the flexible substrate 203) and a second encapsulation layer 220 located on the first substrate;
[0089] The peripheral area D2 includes at least one receiving groove 224; the second encapsulation layer 220 fills the receiving groove 224.
[0090] In some embodiments, the volume of the receiving groove 224 is 1 to 20 pL.
[0091] In some embodiments, the receiving groove 224 extends along the outer periphery of the orthographic projection of the display area D1 onto the first substrate.
[0092] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2E and Figure 2F As shown, multiple receiving slots (e.g., 2241, 2242) are arranged along the direction surrounding the display area D1; in some embodiments, such as Figure 2D and Figure 2F As shown, multiple receiving slots (e.g., 2241, 2242, or 2241 and 2243) are arranged in a direction away from the display area D1.
[0093] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2G As shown, the display island also includes a first encapsulation layer 218 located on the side of the second encapsulation layer 220 near the first substrate; the first encapsulation layer 218 extends into the receiving groove 224. Optionally, the first encapsulation layer 218 covers the sidewalls and bottom of the receiving groove 224.
[0094] In some embodiments, the display panel further includes a connecting bridge connecting different display islands; the display islands further include a first electrode layer 212; wherein...
[0095] The first electrode layer 212 extends to the connecting bridge; the orthographic projection of the first electrode layer 212 onto the first substrate and the orthographic projection of the receiving groove 224 onto the first substrate do not overlap. This structure prevents the receiving groove 224 from disrupting the connection between the display islands.
[0096] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2C , Figures 2G to 2I , Figure 2K As shown, the surrounding area D2 also includes at least one barrier dam 219, 225; the at least one barrier dam is located on the side of the receiving tank 224 away from the display area D1.
[0097] In some embodiments, the distance between the tallest of at least one barrier dam and the first substrate is not less than the distance between the surface of the second encapsulation layer 220 away from the first substrate and the first substrate. By limiting the height of the barrier dam, it can be ensured that the barrier dam functions as an overflow dam.
[0098] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2K As shown, at least one barrier includes a first barrier 219 and a second barrier 225; wherein the first barrier 219 is at least partially embedded in the second barrier 225, and the space between the first barrier 219 and the second barrier 225 forms a receiving groove 224.
[0099] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2H , Figure 2I As shown, the island also includes a first encapsulation layer 218; the first encapsulation layer covers at least one barrier dam 225.
[0100] In some embodiments, the display island 200 further includes a first encapsulation layer 218 and a third encapsulation layer 221 located on both sides of the second encapsulation layer 220; the material of the second encapsulation layer 220 is an organic material; and the materials of the first encapsulation layer 218 and the third encapsulation layer 221 are each independently inorganic materials.
[0101] In some embodiments, the organic material includes one or more of polymethyl methacrylate, polycarbonate, polystyrene sheet, and polyethylene terephthalate-1,4-cyclohexanediol ester; the inorganic material includes SiN x One or more of SiO2 and SiON.
[0102] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 2J As shown, the display area D1 includes at least one pixel unit, which is located on the side of the second encapsulation layer 220 close to the first substrate.
[0103] In some embodiments, the display panel further includes a connecting bridge D3 that connects different display islands; a cutout area D4 is provided between the connecting bridge D3 and the display islands.
[0104] In some embodiments, the connecting bridge D3 includes a first substrate (corresponding to the flexible substrate 203) and a second planarization layer 222, a first electrode layer 212, a third planarization layer 223, a first encapsulation layer 218, and a third encapsulation layer 221 stacked on the first substrate.
[0105] Based on the same inventive concept, this disclosure also provides a method for manufacturing a display panel, characterized in that the display panel includes a display island 200; the display island includes a display area D1 and a peripheral area D2 surrounding the display area; as shown Figures 5A-5EAs shown, the manufacturing method includes:
[0106] like Figure 5B As shown, a first barrier dam 219 and a sacrificial layer 227 are formed in the peripheral area; the sacrificial layer 227 covers the sidewall of the first barrier dam 219 away from the display area D1 and at least part of its end face;
[0107] like Figure 5C As shown, a second barrier dam 225 is formed on the sacrificial layer 227; the second barrier dam covers the sidewall of the sacrificial layer away from the display area and at least part of the end face;
[0108] Finally, the sacrificial layer is removed to form the receiving groove 224.
[0109] In some embodiments, the material of the sacrificial layer 227 is selected from one or more of 8-hydroxyquinoline aluminum, Cu, Mo and Al.
[0110] Based on the same inventive concept, this disclosure also provides a display device, including any of the aforementioned display panels, and having the same technical effects, which will not be repeated here.
[0111] Those skilled in the art should understand that the discussion of any of the above embodiments is merely exemplary and is not intended to imply that the scope of this disclosure (including the claims) is limited to these examples; within the framework of this disclosure, the technical features of the above embodiments or different embodiments can also be combined, the steps can be implemented in any order, and there are many other variations of different aspects of the embodiments of this disclosure as described above, which are not provided in detail for the sake of brevity.
[0112] This disclosure is intended to cover all such substitutions, modifications, and variations that fall within the broad scope of the appended claims. Therefore, any omissions, modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this disclosure should be included within the scope of protection of this disclosure.
Claims
1. A display panel, characterized in that, The display panel includes at least one display island; the display island includes a display area and a peripheral area surrounding the display area; The display island includes a first substrate and a second encapsulation layer located on the first substrate; The peripheral area includes at least one receiving groove; the second encapsulation layer fills the receiving groove.
2. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The volume of the receiving tank is 1–20 pL; and / or The receiving groove extends along the outer periphery of the display area's projection onto the first substrate.
3. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of said receiving slots are arranged along the direction surrounding the display area; and / or, The plurality of the receiving slots are arranged in a direction away from the display area.
4. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The display island also includes a first encapsulation layer located on the side of the second encapsulation layer near the first substrate; the first encapsulation layer extends into the receiving groove.
5. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The display panel further includes connecting bridges connecting different display islands; each display island further includes a first electrode layer; wherein... The first electrode layer extends to the connecting bridge; the orthographic projection of the first electrode layer onto the first substrate and the orthographic projection of the receiving groove onto the first substrate do not overlap.
6. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The surrounding area also includes at least one barrier; the at least one barrier is located on the side of the receiving slot away from the display area.
7. The display panel according to claim 6, characterized in that, The distance between the highest of the at least one barrier and the first substrate is not less than the distance between the surface of the second encapsulation layer away from the first substrate and the first substrate.
8. The display panel according to claim 6, characterized in that, The at least one barrier includes a first barrier and a second barrier; wherein the first barrier is at least partially embedded in the second barrier, and the space between the first barrier and the second barrier forms the receiving groove.
9. The display panel according to claim 6, characterized in that, The display island further includes a first encapsulation layer; the first encapsulation layer covers the at least one barrier.
10. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The display island also includes a first encapsulation layer and a third encapsulation layer located on both sides of the second encapsulation layer; The material of the second encapsulation layer is an organic material; the materials of the first encapsulation layer and the third encapsulation layer are each independently inorganic materials.
11. The display panel according to claim 10, characterized in that, The organic material includes one or more of polymethyl methacrylate, polycarbonate, polystyrene board, and polyethylene terephthalate-1,4-cyclohexanediol ester; the inorganic material includes SiN x One or more of SiO2 and SiON.
12. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The display area includes at least one pixel unit, which is located on the side of the second encapsulation layer near the first substrate.
13. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The display panel also includes a connecting bridge that connects different display islands; a cutout area is provided between the connecting bridge and the display island.
14. The display panel according to claim 13, characterized in that, The connecting bridge includes the first substrate and a second planarization layer, a first electrode layer, a third planarization layer, a first encapsulation layer, and a third encapsulation layer stacked on the first substrate.
15. A method for manufacturing a display panel, characterized in that, The display panel includes a display island; the display island includes a display area and a peripheral area surrounding the display area; the manufacturing method includes: A first barrier dam and a sacrificial layer are formed in the surrounding area; the sacrificial layer covers the sidewall of the first barrier dam away from the display area and at least part of its end face. A second barrier dam is formed on the sacrificial layer; the second barrier dam covers the sidewall of the sacrificial layer away from the display area and at least part of the end face; Remove the sacrificial layer to form a receiving groove.
16. The manufacturing method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The material of the sacrificial layer is selected from one or more of 8-hydroxyquinoline aluminum, Cu, Mo and Al.
17. A display device, characterized in that, Includes the display panel as described in any one of claims 1 to 14.