Display device

Abstract

A display device is disclosed, configured to improve the transmittance of a sensing area in a liquid crystal display panel, thereby improving the recognition rate of optical elements. The display device includes a liquid crystal display panel comprising an effective area and a border area adjacent to the effective area. Gate lines and data lines are alternately arranged in the effective area to define a plurality of sub-pixel areas. The effective area includes a sensing area through which external light is received. Optical elements are provided to detect external light or capture images. Each sub-pixel area includes a thin-film transistor and a pixel electrode. The thin-film transistor includes a gate electrode, a semiconductor pattern, a drain electrode, a source electrode, a gate insulating film, and a device protective film. In the sensing area, the gate insulating film and the device protective film are not disposed below the pixel electrode to increase light transmittance.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0202754, filed on December 31, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth herein. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to a display device that can improve the transmittance of the sensing area of ​​a liquid crystal display panel to improve the recognition rate of optical elements. Background Technology

[0004] Typically, a display device provides an image to a user. For example, a display device may include a backlight unit and a liquid crystal display panel that generates an image using light provided from the backlight unit. The backlight unit may include a light source element located on a side surface of a light guide plate. The liquid crystal display panel may be located on the light guide plate.

[0005] The display device may include optical elements for detecting external light or capturing images. The optical elements may overlap with a portion of a liquid crystal display panel. The liquid crystal display panel may include an effective area for displaying images and a border area disposed around the effective area. The effective area may include a sensing area for providing external light to the optical elements.

[0006] However, polarizers, liquid crystal layers, and color filter layers exist in the sensing area of ​​the liquid crystal display panel. Because of these components, the transmittance of light incident on the optical elements is reduced. Therefore, the recognition rate of the optical elements may decrease. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The disclosed display device achieves improved transmittance in a designated sensing area of ​​the liquid crystal display panel through specific structural modifications. Specifically, the gate insulating film and element protective film are not formed beneath the pixel electrodes within the sensing area. This configuration results in increased transmittance (e.g., approximately 5.85% of the measured value), which enhances the performance of optical components located behind the display (e.g., a camera or infrared sensor).

[0008] Additional structural differences are applied to the pixel electrodes within the sensing area. In contrast, the electrodes in the sensing area are simplified, consisting of fewer fingers, no connectors, and employing straight fingers or only a single bent finger. This results in less obstruction of the conductive material and a wider spacing between the fingers, allowing more external light to pass through.

[0009] By combining the removal of certain insulating layers with a simplified geometry of the pixel electrodes, the device increases the optical sharpness of the sensing area without affecting the operation of the rest of the display. This configuration is specifically tailored to enhance the accuracy and responsiveness of the optical sensing components located behind the panel.

[0010] Therefore, this disclosure relates to a display device that substantially eliminates one or more problems caused by the limitations and disadvantages of related technologies.

[0011] For example, one aspect of this disclosure is to provide a display device that can improve the transmittance of the sensing area of ​​a liquid crystal display panel to improve the recognition rate of optical elements.

[0012] This disclosure is not limited to the aspects described above. Those skilled in the art will clearly understand, based on the following description, aspects of this disclosure not mentioned herein.

[0013] Additional advantages, aspects, and features of this disclosure will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following, or may be learned from practice of this disclosure. Various aspects and other advantages of this disclosure may be realized and obtained by means of structures particularly pointed out in the written description, its claims, and the accompanying drawings.

[0014] To achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with the purposes of this disclosure, as embodied and broadly described herein, a display device includes a liquid crystal display panel, the liquid crystal display panel including an effective region and a border region, the effective region being configured such that a plurality of gate lines and a plurality of data lines are alternately arranged thereon to define a plurality of sub-pixel regions, the border region being located outside the effective region, the effective region including a sensing region.

[0015] Display devices may include optical elements configured to detect external light that has passed through a sensing area of ​​a liquid crystal display panel or to capture images.

[0016] Each of the multiple sub-pixel regions may include a thin-film transistor and a pixel electrode. The thin-film transistor may include a gate electrode, a semiconductor pattern, a drain electrode, a source electrode, a gate insulating film disposed between the gate electrode and the semiconductor pattern, and a component protective film configured to cover the semiconductor pattern, the drain electrode, and the source electrode. The gate insulating film and the component protective film may not be disposed below the pixel electrode in each sub-pixel region of the sensing area.

[0017] In another aspect of this disclosure, a display device includes a liquid crystal display panel, the liquid crystal display panel including an effective area and a border area located outside the effective area, the effective area being configured such that a plurality of gate lines and a plurality of data lines are alternately arranged thereon to define a plurality of sub-pixel areas, the effective area including a sensing area and optical elements, the optical elements being configured to detect external light that has passed through the sensing area of ​​the liquid crystal display panel or to capture an image, wherein each of the plurality of sub-pixel areas includes a thin film transistor and a pixel electrode, the pixel electrode disposed in the effective area excluding the sensing area including a first body, a plurality of first fingers and a connector, the first body being connected to a source electrode of the thin film transistor disposed in the effective area excluding the sensing area, the plurality of first fingers being configured to extend from the first body, the connector being configured to electrically connect the ends of the plurality of first fingers, the pixel electrode disposed in the sensing area including a second body and a plurality of second fingers, the second body being connected to a source electrode of the thin film transistor disposed in the sensing area, the plurality of second fingers being configured to extend from the second body.

[0018] The shape of the first finger can be different from the shape of the second finger.

[0019] Other details are included in the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

[0020] It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description of this disclosure are exemplary and illustrative, and are intended to provide further explanation of the claimed disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0021] The accompanying drawings, which provide a further understanding of this disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this application, illustrate embodiments of this disclosure and, together with the specification, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure. In the drawings:

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 Cross-sectional views taken from lines I-I' and II-II';

[0024] Figure 3 This is a circuit diagram of a sub-pixel region located in a liquid crystal display panel of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 4 This is a plan view showing the sub-pixel region of a liquid crystal display panel according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 5 It is along Figure 4The cross-sectional view taken by line III-III' is a cross-sectional view of a sub-pixel region disposed in the effective region excluding the sensing region of a liquid crystal display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 6 It is along Figure 4 The cross-sectional view taken by line III-III' is a cross-sectional view of a sub-pixel region disposed in the sensing area of ​​a liquid crystal display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 7 This is a plan view of pixel electrodes disposed in the effective area excluding the sensing area of ​​a liquid crystal display panel according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 8 It is a plan view of pixel electrodes disposed in the sensing area of ​​a liquid crystal display panel according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 9 It is a plan view of the finger-shaped pixel electrodes disposed in the effective area excluding the sensing area of ​​a liquid crystal display panel according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 10 It is along Figure 9 The cut-off image taken from line IV-IV';

[0032] Figure 11 It is a plan view of the fingers of the pixel electrodes disposed in the sensing area of ​​a liquid crystal display panel according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 12 It is along Figure 11 The cross-sectional view taken from line IV-IV'. Detailed Implementation

[0034] The various aspects and technical structures of this disclosure, as well as the resulting operational effects, will become clearer from the following detailed description, which illustrates embodiments of this disclosure with reference to the accompanying drawings. Since embodiments of this disclosure are provided to fully convey the technical ideas of this disclosure to those skilled in the art, this disclosure may be embodied in other forms and is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0035] The shapes, sizes, dimensions (e.g., length, width, height, thickness, radius, diameter, area, etc.), ratios, angles, quantities, etc. of the elements shown in the accompanying drawings used to describe embodiments of this disclosure are merely examples, and this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0036] For ease of description, dimensions including the size and thickness of each component shown in the accompanying drawings are shown, and this disclosure is not limited to the size and thickness of the components shown, but it should be noted that the relative dimensions of the relative size, position and thickness of the components shown in the various accompanying drawings submitted herein are part of this disclosure.

[0037] Furthermore, when the first component is referred to as being "on" the second component, the first component may be directly on the second component, or the third component may be located between the first component and the second component.

[0038] Here, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used to describe various components and to distinguish one component from another. However, without departing from the technical spirit of this disclosure, the first component and the second component may be named arbitrarily according to the convenience of those skilled in the art.

[0039] The terminology used in the description of this disclosure is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the disclosure. For example, a component expressed in the singular includes multiple components unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” and “having” are inclusive and thus specify the presence of the stated feature, integer, step, operation, element, and / or component, but do not preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0040] As used herein, the term "connection" is intended to have the broadest possible meaning. Specifically, the phrase "A connected to B" includes both direct connections (where no intermediate parts or elements exist) and indirect connections (where one or more intermediate parts or elements exist between A and B). In other words, "A connected to B" includes both direct physical or electrical coupling and indirect coupling via one or more intermediate parts. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, these terms do not require direct physical or electrical contact. The terms "coupling" and "contact" should be interpreted in the same manner.

[0041] Furthermore, unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Terms defined in common dictionaries shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant field and shall not be interpreted as having an ideal or overly formal meaning unless the context clearly defines the meaning.

[0042] Figure 1 This is a schematic view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional views taken from lines I-I' and II-II'. Figure 3This is a circuit diagram of a sub-pixel region located in a liquid crystal display panel of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 This is a plan view showing the sub-pixel region of a liquid crystal display panel according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 The cross-sectional view taken by line III-III' is a cross-sectional view of a sub-pixel region PA disposed in an effective area AA excluding the sensing area of ​​a liquid crystal display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Reference Figures 1 to 5 A display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a liquid crystal display panel 100 for displaying images, a backlight unit 200 located below the liquid crystal display panel 100 to provide light to the liquid crystal display panel 100, and an optical element 350 located below the liquid crystal display panel 100 to capture images or detect external light through the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal display panel 100.

[0044] The liquid crystal display panel 100 may include multiple sub-pixel regions PA. Various signals can be applied to each sub-pixel region PA via signal lines GL and DL. For example, signal lines GL and DL may include a gate line GL for sequentially applying gate signals and a data line DL for applying data signals. The gate line GL may intersect with the data line DL. For example, the gate line GL may extend in a first direction, and the data line DL may extend in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The data line DL may be located on a different layer than the gate line GL.

[0045] The liquid crystal display panel 100 may include an effective area AA containing the sub-pixel area PA and a border area BZ located outside the effective area AA. The border area BZ may not overlap with the sub-pixel area PA. For example, the effective area AA may be surrounded by the border area BZ. The gate driver electrically connected to the gate line GL and the data driver electrically connected to the data line DL may be located outside the effective area AA. For example, each signal line GL or DL ​​may include an area overlapping with the border area BZ of the liquid crystal display panel 100.

[0046] The liquid crystal display panel 100 may include a liquid crystal layer LC located between a first display substrate 110 and a second display substrate 120. The first display substrate 110 and the second display substrate 120 may include insulating materials. The first display substrate 110 and the second display substrate 120 may include transparent materials. For example, the first display substrate 110 and the second display substrate 120 may include glass or plastic. The second display substrate 120 may include a material different from the first display substrate 110. The liquid crystal layer LC may include liquid crystal manipulated using various techniques. For example, in-plane switching (IPS) technology or edge field switching (FFS) technology may be used to manipulate the liquid crystal of the liquid crystal layer LC. The liquid crystal of the liquid crystal layer LC overlapping with each sub-pixel region PA can be rotated by a vertical or horizontal electric field formed in the corresponding sub-pixel region PA by gate signals and data signals. For example, pixel electrodes 130 for forming the horizontal electric field and common electrodes 140 overlapping some areas of the pixel electrodes 130 may be located in each sub-pixel region PA.

[0047] A constant power supply voltage can be provided to the common electrode 140 of each sub-pixel region PA. A driving voltage corresponding to the data signal applied to the corresponding sub-pixel region PA can be supplied to the pixel electrode 130 of the corresponding sub-pixel region PA based on the gate signal applied to the corresponding sub-pixel region PA. That is, in a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a horizontal electric field can be formed in each sub-pixel region PA by the driving voltage applied to the pixel electrode 130 of the corresponding sub-pixel region PA and the power supply voltage applied to the common electrode 140. The driving voltage applied to the pixel electrode 130 of each sub-pixel region PA can be maintained for one frame. For example, at least one thin-film transistor Tr and a storage capacitor Cst can be located in each sub-pixel region PA.

[0048] The thin-film transistor Tr of each sub-pixel region PA can generate a driving voltage corresponding to the data signal applied to the corresponding sub-pixel region PA based on the gate signal applied to the corresponding sub-pixel region PA. The thin-film transistor Tr of each sub-pixel region PA can be electrically connected to a gate line GL and a data line DL. For example, the thin-film transistor Tr of each sub-pixel region PA may include a gate electrode 121 electrically connected to a gate line GL, a semiconductor pattern 122 including a region overlapping with the gate electrode 121, a drain electrode 123 electrically connected to one end of the semiconductor pattern 122, and a source electrode 124 electrically connected to the other end of the semiconductor pattern 122.

[0049] The gate electrode 121 may include a conductive material. For example, the gate electrode 121 may include a metal such as aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), or tungsten (W). A semiconductor pattern 122 may be located on the gate electrode 121. The semiconductor pattern 122 may include a semiconductor material. For example, the semiconductor pattern 122 may include amorphous silicon (a-Si), polycrystalline silicon (poly-Si), or an oxide semiconductor such as IGZO. The semiconductor pattern 122 may include a channel region located between the drain region and the source region. For example, the gate electrode 121 may overlap with the channel region of the semiconductor pattern 122. The drain and source regions of the semiconductor pattern 122 may be located outside the gate electrode 121.

[0050] The drain and source regions of semiconductor pattern 122 may have lower resistance than the channel region of semiconductor pattern 122. For example, the drain and source regions of semiconductor pattern 122 may include conductive regions of oxide semiconductor. The channel region of semiconductor pattern 122 may be a non-conductive region of oxide semiconductor. Semiconductor pattern 122 may be spaced apart from gate electrode 121. Semiconductor pattern 122 may be insulated from gate electrode 121. For example, the channel region of semiconductor pattern 122 may have conductivity corresponding to the voltage supplied to gate electrode 121. The drain region of semiconductor pattern 122 may be electrically connected to the source region of semiconductor pattern 122 according to a signal applied to gate electrode 121.

[0051] Drain electrode 123 and source electrode 124 may include conductive materials. For example, drain electrode 123 and source electrode 124 may include metals such as aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), or tungsten (W). Drain electrode 123 and source electrode 124 may include materials different from those of gate electrode 121. For example, drain electrode 123 and source electrode 124 may be located on a different layer than gate electrode 121. Source electrode 124 may be located on the same layer as drain electrode 123. Source electrode 124 may include the same material as drain electrode 123. Source electrode 124 may be formed using the same process as drain electrode 123. For example, source electrode 124 may be formed simultaneously with drain electrode 123.

[0052] Drain electrode 123 can be electrically connected to the drain region of semiconductor pattern 122. Source electrode 124 can be electrically connected to the source region of semiconductor pattern 122. Drain electrode 123 and source electrode 124 can be insulated from gate electrode 121. Source electrode 124 can be spaced apart from drain electrode 123. For example, the drain electrode 123 of each sub-pixel region PA can be electrically connected to a data line DL. Drain electrode 123 can be integrally formed with a data line DL. Pixel electrode 130 of each sub-pixel region PA can be electrically connected to the source electrode 124 of the corresponding sub-pixel region PA.

[0053] The storage capacitor Cst of each sub-pixel region PA can hold the signal applied to the source electrode 124 of the corresponding sub-pixel region PA within one frame. For example, the storage capacitor Cst of each sub-pixel region PA can be electrically connected to the source electrode 124 and the common electrode of the corresponding sub-pixel region PA.

[0054] The thin-film transistor Tr and storage capacitor Cst of each sub-pixel region PA can be located between the first display substrate 110 and the liquid crystal layer LC. Multiple insulating films 111, 112, 113, and 114 can be located between the first display substrate 110 and the liquid crystal layer LC to prevent unnecessary conductive connections. For example, a gate insulating film 111, a component protection film 112, a planarization film 113, and an interlayer insulating film 114 can be located between the first display substrate 110 and the liquid crystal layer LC.

[0055] The gate insulating film 111 may be located near the first display substrate 110. The semiconductor pattern 122 of each sub-pixel region PA can be insulated from the gate electrode 121 of the corresponding sub-pixel region PA through the gate insulating film 111. For example, the gate insulating film 111 may cover the gate electrode 121 of each sub-pixel region PA. The semiconductor pattern 122 of each sub-pixel region PA may be located on the gate insulating film 111. Each of the drain electrode 123 and source electrode 124 of each sub-pixel region PA may be in direct contact with a portion of the semiconductor pattern 122 located within the corresponding sub-pixel region PA. For example, the drain electrode 123 and source electrode 124 of each sub-pixel region PA may be located on the gate insulating film 111. The gate insulating film 111 may include an insulating material. For example, the gate insulating film 111 may include an inorganic insulating material, such as silicon oxide (SiOx) or silicon nitride (SiNx).

[0056] Component protective film 112 may be located on gate insulating film 111. Component protective film 112 can prevent damage to thin-film transistors Tr located in each sub-pixel region PA due to external impact and moisture. For example, the semiconductor pattern 122, drain electrode 123, and source electrode 124 of each sub-pixel region PA may be covered by component protective film 112. Component protective film 112 may include an insulating material. For example, component protective film 112 may include an inorganic insulating material, such as silicon oxide (SiOx) or silicon nitride (SiNx).

[0057] Planarization film 113 may be located on element protective film 112. Planarization film 113 can remove steps caused by thin-film transistors Tr and storage capacitors Cst in each sub-pixel region PA. For example, the upper surface of planarization film 113 facing the liquid crystal layer LC may be parallel to the upper surface of the first display substrate 110 facing the liquid crystal layer LC. Planarization film 113 may include an insulating material. Planarization film 113 may include a material different from element protective film 112. Planarization film 113 may include a material with relatively high fluidity. For example, planarization film 113 may include an organic insulating material.

[0058] The common electrode 140 may be located on the planarization film 113. The interlayer insulating film 114 may be located between the planarization film 113 and the liquid crystal layer LC. The common electrode 140 of each sub-pixel region PA may be insulated from the pixel electrode 130 of the corresponding sub-pixel region PA by the interlayer insulating film 114. For example, the interlayer insulating film 114 may cover the common electrode 140 of each sub-pixel region PA. The pixel electrode 130 of each sub-pixel region PA may be located between the interlayer insulating film 114 and the liquid crystal layer LC. Each pixel electrode 130 may have at least one slit. The interlayer insulating film 114 may include an insulating material. For example, the interlayer insulating film 114 may include an inorganic insulating material.

[0059] Color filters 151, black matrix 152, and upper protective film 115 can be located between the liquid crystal layer LC and the second display substrate 120. Color filters 151 can overlap with sub-pixel regions PA. For example, each color filter 151 can overlap with one sub-pixel region PA. Each color filter 151 can use light that has passed through the liquid crystal layer LC to represent a specific color. For example, light that has passed through each color filter 151 can represent one of red, blue, and green. Black matrix 152 can be positioned parallel to the color filters 151. For example, the ends of each color filter 151 can overlap with black matrix 152. Figure 4 It is shown that the end of each color filter 151 overlaps with the black matrix 152, and the ends of two adjacent color filters 151 do not overlap with each other on the black matrix 152, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. The ends of two adjacent color filters 151 may overlap with each other on the black matrix 152.

[0060] The black matrix 152 may include a material capable of reflecting or absorbing light. For example, light that has passed through the liquid crystal layer LC of each sub-pixel region PA can pass through the color filter 151 of the corresponding sub-pixel region PA located within the area defined by the black matrix 152 and be emitted to the outside. Therefore, in a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an image including various colors can be provided to the user.

[0061] The black matrix 152 may overlap with the signal lines GL and DL. The thin-film transistor Tr and storage capacitor Cst of each sub-pixel region PA may overlap with the black matrix 152. Therefore, in a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the signal lines GL and DL of each sub-pixel region PA, as well as the thin-film transistor Tr and storage capacitor Cst, may not be recognized by the user due to the black matrix 152. That is, in a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, image quality degradation caused by the user's recognition of the signal lines GL and DL of each sub-pixel region PA, as well as the thin-film transistor Tr and storage capacitor Cst, can be prevented. The color filter 151 and the black matrix 152 may be covered by an upper protective film 115. The upper protective film 115 can prevent damage to the color filter 151 and the black matrix 152 due to external impact and moisture. The upper protective film 115 may include an insulating material. For example, the upper protective film 115 may include an inorganic insulating material, such as silicon oxide (SiOx) or silicon nitride (SiNx).

[0062] The spacer 160 can be located between the interlayer insulating film 114 and the upper protective film 115. The spacer 160 can maintain a constant gap between the interlayer insulating film 114 and the upper protective film 115. Therefore, in a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the liquid crystal layer LC of each sub-pixel region PA can have the same thickness. Therefore, in a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, light passing through the liquid crystal layer LC of each sub-pixel region PA can have the same optical path. In addition, in a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, light that has passed through the liquid crystal layer LC of each sub-pixel region PA and light that has passed through the liquid crystal layer LC of the sub-pixel region PA in which the same horizontal electric field as the corresponding sub-pixel region PA is formed can have the same brightness.

[0063] The liquid crystal display panel 100 may be located above the backlight unit 200. The backlight unit 200 may provide light to the liquid crystal display panel 100. For example, the liquid crystal display panel 100 may use the light provided from the backlight unit 200 to generate an image to be provided to the user. The backlight unit 200 may include a light source element 210, a light guide plate 220, a reflector 230, an optical sheet 240, a bottom cover 250, and a middle frame 260.

[0064] The light source element 210 can provide light to the liquid crystal display panel 100 via the light guide plate 220. For example, the light source element 210 can be located on one side surface of the light guide plate 220. The light source element 210 may include a self-emissive element capable of generating and emitting light. For example, the light source element 210 may include an LED.

[0065] Reflector 230 may be located on the lower surface of light guide plate 220. The lower surface of light guide plate 220 may face the upper surface of reflector 230. For example, light guide plate 220 may be located between reflector 230 and liquid crystal display panel 100. Reflector 230 may include a material capable of reflecting light. For example, reflector 230 may include a metal, such as aluminum (Al) or silver (Ag). Therefore, in a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, light emitted through the lower surface of light guide plate 220 may be reflected by reflector 230 toward liquid crystal display panel 100.

[0066] Optical sheet 240 may be located between light guide plate 220 and liquid crystal display panel 100. Light supplied to liquid crystal display panel 100 through light guide plate 220 can have uniform brightness due to optical sheet 240. For example, optical sheet 240 may have a stacked structure of prism sheet 241 and diffuser sheet 242. Therefore, in a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, light can be uniformly supplied to the entire area of ​​liquid crystal display panel 100.

[0067] The light source element 210, light guide plate 220, reflector 230, and optical sheet 240 can be housed in a base cover 250. The base cover 250 may include an insulating material. For example, the base cover 250 may include plastic. The base cover 250 may include a bottom surface and sidewalls projecting from the edges of the bottom surface. The reflector 230 may be located between the light guide plate 220 and the bottom surface of the base cover 250. The light source element 210, light guide plate 220, and optical sheet 240 may be located within the space formed by the sidewalls of the base cover 250. For example, the sidewalls of the base cover 250 may surround the light source element 210, light guide plate 220, and optical sheet 240.

[0068] The intermediate frame 260 can support the liquid crystal display panel 100. The intermediate frame 260 can be connected to the bottom cover 250. For example, the intermediate frame 260 may include a connection area extending between the bottom cover 250 and the light guide plate 220. A light source element 210 can be fixed to the connection area of ​​the intermediate frame 260. For example, the light source element 210 can be attached to the connection area of ​​the intermediate frame 260 via an adhesive member. The intermediate frame 260 may include a mounting area extending between the optical sheet 240 and the liquid crystal display panel 100. The mounting area of ​​the intermediate frame 260 may overlap with the edge of the optical sheet 240. For example, the mounting area of ​​the intermediate frame 260 may overlap with the bezel area BZ of the liquid crystal display panel 100. The effective area AA of the liquid crystal display panel 100 may not overlap with the mounting area of ​​the intermediate frame 260. For example, the central area of ​​the optical sheet 240 may be exposed from the intermediate frame 260. The mounting area of ​​the intermediate frame 260 may be in direct contact with the optical sheet 240. Therefore, in a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the movement of the optical sheet 240 can be prevented by the intermediate frame 260.

[0069] The reflector 230 may include a through-hole 230h that overlaps with the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal display panel 100. The optical sheet 240 may include a sheet hole 240h that overlaps with the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal display panel 100. The bottom cover 250 may include a cover hole 250h that overlaps with the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal display panel 100.

[0070] Optical element 350 can detect external light or capture images that have passed through the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal display panel 100 and the backlight unit 200. For example, optical element 350 may include at least one of a camera or an IR sensor. Optical element 350 may be located below the backlight unit 200. Optical element 350 can be attached to the rear surface of the base cover 250 via adhesive tape 400. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. Optical element 350 can be attached to the rear surface of the base cover 250 via a fastening device such as screws.

[0071] The structure of the sub-pixel region PA disposed in the effective area AA of the liquid crystal display panel 100 can be different from the structure of the sub-pixel region PA disposed in the sensing area HA. ​​This will be described in detail below.

[0072] Figure 6 It is along Figure 4 The cut-off image is taken from line III-III', which is a cut-off image of a sub-pixel region disposed in the sensing area HA of a liquid crystal display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0073] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, Figure 5 It is a cropped image of a sub-pixel region within the effective region AA, excluding the sensing region HA. Figure 6 This is a cropped image of a sub-pixel region within the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal display panel. (Comparison) Figure 5 and Figure 6 The gate insulating film 111 and the element protective film 112 differ. Therefore, the gate insulating film 111 and the element protective film 112 will be described, and the description of the remaining structures will be omitted.

[0074] like Figure 6 As shown, a liquid crystal display panel 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a liquid crystal layer LC located between a first display substrate 110 and a second display substrate 120. At least one thin-film transistor Tr and a storage capacitor Cst may be located in each sub-pixel region PA.

[0075] Each subpixel region PA's thin-film transistor Tr may include a gate electrode 121 electrically connected to a gate line GL, a semiconductor pattern 122 including a region overlapping with the gate electrode 121, a drain electrode 123 electrically connected to one end of the semiconductor pattern 122, and a source electrode 124 electrically connected to the other end of the semiconductor pattern 122.

[0076] The gate insulating film 111 may be located between the gate electrode 121 and the semiconductor pattern 122 of the thin-film transistor Tr. In addition, the device protective film 112 may be located between the semiconductor pattern 122, the drain electrode 123, the source electrode 124 and the planarization film 113 of the thin-film transistor Tr.

[0077] exist Figure 5 In this configuration, the gate insulating film 111 and the element protective film 112 are located not only on the thin-film transistor Tr, but also on the entire surface of the sub-pixel region PA. For example, the gate insulating film 111 and the element protective film 112 are also located below the pixel electrode 130.

[0078] However, in Figure 6 In this configuration, the gate insulating film 111 and the element protective film 112 are located only on the thin-film transistor Tr, and not on the rest of the sub-pixel region PA. For example, the gate insulating film 111 and the element protective film 112 are not located below the pixel electrode 130.

[0079] like Figure 6 As shown, since no inorganic insulating film (such as gate insulating film 111 and element protective film 112) is formed under the pixel electrode 130 in each sub-pixel region of the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal display panel, the transmittance of the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal display panel can be increased by about 5.85%.

[0080] In addition, transmittance can be improved by changing the settings of the pixel electrodes.

[0081] Figure 7 This is a plan view of pixel electrodes disposed in the effective area AA, excluding the sensing area HA, of a liquid crystal display panel according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 This is a plan view of pixel electrodes disposed in the sensing area HA of a liquid crystal display panel according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0082] like Figure 7 As shown, the pixel electrode 130 disposed in the effective area AA excluding the sensing area HA of a liquid crystal display panel according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may include a connection to Figure 5The thin-film transistor Tr shown includes a first body 131 of the source electrode 124, a plurality of first finger portions 132 (or simply a plurality of first fingers 132) extending from the first body 131 in a direction parallel to the data line DL, and a connector 133 electrically connecting the ends of the plurality of first fingers 132.

[0083] The plurality of first fingers 132 may have a structure in which each of the plurality of first fingers 132 is bent in a specific direction at the point where it connects to the first body 131. The plurality of first fingers 132 may have a structure in which the central portion of each of the plurality of first fingers 132 is bent at multiple angles, i.e., a compound angle structure. The plurality of first fingers 132 may have a structure in which each of the plurality of first fingers 132 is bent in a specific direction at the point where it connects to the connector 133.

[0084] For example, such as Figure 7 As shown, the plurality of first fingers 132 may have a structure in which each of the plurality of first fingers 132 is bent in a specific direction at the point where it connects to the first body 131, as shown in "B". The plurality of first fingers 132 may have a structure in which the central portion of each of the plurality of first fingers 132 is bent at multiple angles, i.e., a compound angle structure, as shown in "A". The plurality of first fingers 132 may have a structure in which each of the plurality of first fingers 132 is bent in a specific direction at the point where it connects to the connector 133, as shown in "C".

[0085] On the other hand, such as Figure 8 As shown, the pixel electrode 130' disposed in the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal display panel according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may have a connection to Figure 5 The thin-film transistor Tr shown has a second body 131' of the source electrode 124 and a plurality of second finger portions 132' (or simply a plurality of second fingers 132') extending from the second body 131' in a direction parallel to the data line DL.

[0086] The plurality of second fingers 132' may not have a structure in which each of the plurality of second fingers 132' is bent at the point where it connects to the second body 131'. The plurality of second fingers 132' may have a structure in which the central portion of each of the plurality of second fingers 132' is bent at a specific angle. The plurality of second fingers 132' may not have a structure in which the central portion of each of the plurality of second fingers 132' is bent at multiple angles, i.e., a compound angle structure.

[0087] Compare Figure 7 and Figure 8In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the pixel electrode 130 disposed in the effective area AA of the liquid crystal display panel excluding the sensing area HA may include a connector 133 electrically connecting the ends of a plurality of first fingers 132. However, the pixel electrode 130' disposed in the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal display panel according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may not include the connector 133.

[0088] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of first fingers 132 disposed in the effective area AA of a pixel electrode 130 in a liquid crystal display panel excluding the sensing area HA may have a structure in which the central portion of each of the plurality of first fingers 132 is bent at multiple angles (compound angle structure). However, a plurality of second fingers 132' disposed in the sensing area HA of a liquid crystal display panel according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may not have a structure in which the central portion of each of the plurality of second fingers 132' is bent at multiple angles (compound angle structure).

[0089] Therefore, since the pixel electrode 130' disposed in the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal display panel according to another embodiment of the present disclosure does not include the connector 133, and the plurality of second fingers 132' of the pixel electrode 130' does not have a structure in which the central portion of each of the plurality of second fingers 132' is bent at multiple angles (compound angle structure), the transmittance of the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal display panel can be improved.

[0090] Furthermore, according to another embodiment of this disclosure, the number of second fingers 132' disposed in the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal display panel can be reduced.

[0091] Figure 9 This is a plan view of the first finger of the pixel electrode disposed in the effective area AA, excluding the sensing area HA, of a liquid crystal display panel according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 10 It is along Figure 9 The cross-sectional view taken from line IV-IV'. Figure 11 This is a plan view of the second finger of the pixel electrode disposed in the sensing area HA of a liquid crystal display panel according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 12 It is along Figure 11 The cross-sectional view taken from line IV-IV'.

[0092] For reference Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, the pixel electrode 130 or 130' may include a first body 131 or a second body 131' connected to the source electrode 124 of the thin-film transistor Tr, and a plurality of first fingers 132 or a plurality of second fingers 132' extending from the first body 131 or the second body 131' in a direction parallel to the data line DL.

[0093] like Figures 9 to 12 As shown, the number of second fingers 132' of pixel electrodes 130' provided in each sub-pixel region of the sensing region HA of the liquid crystal display panel can be reduced compared to the number of first fingers 132 of pixel electrodes 130' provided in each sub-pixel region of the effective region AA excluding the sensing region HA of the liquid crystal display panel.

[0094] For example, such as Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the number of first fingers 132 of the pixel electrode 130 disposed in each sub-pixel region of the effective region AA excluding the sensing region HA of the liquid crystal display panel can be set to 7. Therefore, the first fingers 132 of the pixel electrode 130 disposed in each sub-pixel region of the effective region AA excluding the sensing region HA of the liquid crystal display panel can have a predetermined distance d1 between them.

[0095] On the other hand, such as Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, the number of second fingers 132' of the pixel electrode 130' disposed in each sub-pixel region of the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal display panel can be set to 5. Therefore, the second fingers 132' of the pixel electrode 130' disposed in each sub-pixel region of the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal display panel can have a predetermined distance d2 between them. Here, the distance d1 can be less than the distance d2.

[0096] Therefore, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, since the number of second fingers 132' of the pixel electrode 130' disposed in the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal display panel is less than the number of first fingers 132 of the pixel electrode 130 disposed in the effective area AA of the liquid crystal display panel excluding the sensing area HA, the transmittance of the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal display panel can be improved.

[0097] Additional implementations of the display device described herein may include variations in structural configuration and subpixel arrangement to enhance optical performance, particularly in areas designated for sensing functions.

[0098] For example, a display device may include a liquid crystal display panel, which includes a substrate 110, which may be formed of a transparent insulating material such as glass or plastic. A liquid crystal layer LC is disposed on the substrate 110. The liquid crystal layer LC can be manipulated by an electric field to modulate light passing through the panel. A plurality of sub-pixel regions may be arranged within an effective region defined on the substrate. The effective region may include a set of first sub-pixel regions located within a sensing region of the effective region, and a set of second sub-pixel regions located outside the sensing region, such as in a region dedicated to image display.

[0099] Each sub-pixel region may include a thin-film transistor (TFT) formed on a substrate and a pixel electrode disposed above the TFT. The TFT may include a gate electrode, a semiconductor pattern disposed on or above the gate electrode, a source electrode and a drain electrode electrically in contact with the semiconductor pattern. The semiconductor pattern may include a channel region, and the pixel electrode may receive signals from the TFT to control the orientation of liquid crystal molecules in the corresponding sub-pixel region.

[0100] In the second sub-pixel region located outside the sensing region, a gate insulating film 111 and a component protection film 112 are disposed below the pixel electrode 130. These films may include insulating materials such as silicon nitride or silicon oxide and may be used for electrical isolation and protection of the underlying transistor structure. Conversely, in the first sub-pixel region located within the sensing region HA, the gate insulating film 111 and the component protection film 112 are omitted in the region below the pixel electrode 130, so that the pixel electrode 130 is disposed directly above other dielectric layers, which may include, for example, a planarization film 113 or an interlayer insulating film 114. Selectively omitting these films in the sensing region HA can reduce light absorption and scattering, thereby improving transmittance.

[0101] In some embodiments, each pixel electrode in the second sub-pixel region may include a first body 131 extending in a first direction. A plurality of first finger portions may extend from the first body 131 in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The fingers may be configured to form an electric field (such as an in-plane or edge field configuration) to orient liquid crystal molecules in a desired orientation. Depending on the specific electrode layout, the first direction may be parallel to the gate line, and the second direction may be parallel to the data line, or vice versa.

[0102] In some embodiments, a connector 133 may be provided that electrically connects the distal ends of a plurality of first finger portions. The connector 133 may extend parallel to the first body and be formed on the same conductive layer as the first fingers and the first body. This structure may surround the finger pattern, forming a closed loop or a comb-shaped electrode with conductive bridges, which helps improve voltage uniformity across sub-pixels.

[0103] Each first finger portion may include at least two angled bends along its length between a proximal end connected to the first body and a distal end connected to the connector 133. At least one bend may be located near the central region of the respective finger portion. This geometry may define a non-linear finger shape that increases the effective surface area or modulates the electric field distribution for liquid crystal alignment.

[0104] In the first sub-pixel region, each pixel electrode may include a second body and a plurality of second finger portions extending from the second body. The second finger portions may not be connected at their distal ends, meaning there are no bridging or connector elements across the tips of the fingers. This design can be implemented to reduce or minimize conductive material in the optical path, thereby enhancing light transmittance in the sensing region.

[0105] Each second finger portion can be linear, or it can include a single bend along its length. Compared to the fingers in the second sub-pixel region, these fingers generally have simpler geometry and are optimized to reduce or minimize light obstruction and interference in the sensing area, especially when the camera or optical sensor is located below the panel.

[0106] In some embodiments, the first pixel electrode in the second sub-pixel region may include a first body extending in a first direction and a plurality of first finger-like portions extending from the first body in a second direction intersecting the first direction, wherein the distal ends of the finger-like portions are connected via connectors. Simultaneously, the second pixel electrode in the first sub-pixel region may include a second body and a plurality of second finger-like portions extending from the second body, wherein the distal ends of the second finger-like portions are not connected. Furthermore, the number of second finger-like portions in each first sub-pixel region may be less than the number of first finger-like portions in each second sub-pixel region. For example, the first pixel electrode may include seven finger-like portions, while the second pixel electrode may include five finger-like portions.

[0107] In related embodiments, the spacing between adjacent second finger portions in the first sub-pixel region can be greater than the spacing between adjacent first finger portions in the second sub-pixel region. This increased spacing can further improve light transmittance by increasing the aperture ratio within the sensing region.

[0108] In some implementations, the second finger portions may be positioned parallel to the data lines extending through the corresponding sub-pixel regions. The second finger portions may terminate between adjacent gate lines such that they do not intersect or contact the gate lines. This spatial arrangement can be chosen to reduce parasitic capacitance and improve sensing performance in optical applications.

[0109] In some configurations, omitting the gate insulating film and element protective film below the pixel electrode in each first sub-pixel region can increase light transmittance relative to the second sub-pixel region. This increased transmittance can enhance the effectiveness of optical sensors (such as cameras or ambient light sensors) positioned below the panel and aligned with the sensing area.

[0110] It is evident from the above description that the display device based on the technical concept of this disclosure has the following technical benefits.

[0111] First, since no inorganic insulating film, such as a gate insulating film and a component protective film, is formed under the pixel electrode in each sub-pixel region of the sensing area of ​​the liquid crystal display panel, the transmittance of the sensing area of ​​the liquid crystal display panel can be improved.

[0112] Secondly, since the pixel electrode in the sensing area of ​​the liquid crystal display panel does not include a connector that electrically connects the ends of multiple fingers, and the multiple fingers of the pixel electrode do not have a structure in which the central portion of each of the multiple fingers is bent at multiple angles (compound angle structure), the transmittance of the sensing area of ​​the liquid crystal display panel can be improved.

[0113] Third, since the number of multiple fingers of the pixel electrode in the sensing area is less than the number of multiple fingers of the pixel electrode in the effective area of ​​the liquid crystal display panel excluding the sensing area, the transmittance of the sensing area of ​​the liquid crystal display panel can be improved.

[0114] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to those described above, and it should be understood that this disclosure covers a variety of other effects.

[0115] The present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments and drawings, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various substitutions, modifications and alterations are possible without departing from the technical spirit of the present disclosure.

[0116] The various embodiments described above can be combined to provide further embodiments. Based on the detailed description above, these and other changes can be made to the embodiments. Generally, the terminology used in the following claims should not be construed as limiting the claims to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification and claims, but should be interpreted to include all possible embodiments and the full scope of equivalents of these claims. Therefore, the claims are not limited to this disclosure.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: A liquid crystal display panel, the liquid crystal display panel including an effective area and a border area, the effective area being configured such that multiple gate lines and multiple data lines are alternately arranged on the effective area to define multiple sub-pixel areas, the border area being located outside the effective area, the effective area including a sensing area; and Optical elements configured to detect external light that has passed through the sensing area of ​​the liquid crystal display panel or to capture an image. in: Each of the plurality of sub-pixel regions includes a thin-film transistor and a pixel electrode; The thin-film transistor includes a gate electrode, a semiconductor pattern, a drain electrode, a source electrode, a gate insulating film disposed between the gate electrode and the semiconductor pattern, and a component protective film configured to cover the semiconductor pattern, the drain electrode, and the source electrode. The gate insulating film and the element protective film are not disposed below the pixel electrode in each of the sub-pixel regions of the sensing area.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The pixel electrode disposed in the effective region excluding the sensing region includes a first body, a plurality of first fingers, and a connector. The first body is connected to the source electrode of the thin-film transistor disposed in the effective region excluding the sensing region. The plurality of first fingers are configured to extend from the first body, and the connector is configured to electrically connect the ends of the plurality of first fingers. The pixel electrode disposed in the sensing area includes a second body and a plurality of second fingers, the second body being connected to the source electrode of the thin-film transistor disposed in the sensing area, and the plurality of second fingers being configured to extend from the second body; The shape of the first finger is different from the shape of the second finger.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The plurality of first fingers have a compound angular structure at the center portion of each of the plurality of first fingers; The plurality of second fingers do not have the composite angular structure of the central portion of each of the plurality of second fingers.

4. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The plurality of first fingers have a structure configured such that each of the plurality of first fingers bends in a specific direction at the point where it is connected to the first body; The plurality of second fingers do not have a structure configured to bend at each point in the plurality of second fingers that connect to the second body.

5. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The plurality of first fingers have a structure configured such that each of the plurality of first fingers is bent in a specific direction at the point where it is connected to the connector; The plurality of second fingers do not have a structure configured such that the ends of each of the plurality of second fingers are bent.

6. The display device of claim 2, wherein, The number of the plurality of second fingers is less than the number of the plurality of first fingers.

7. The display device of claim 2, wherein, The spacing between adjacent second fingers is greater than the spacing between adjacent first fingers.

8. The display device according to claim 2, wherein, The ends of the plurality of second fingers are not connected to each other.

9. The display device according to claim 2, wherein, The plurality of second fingers have a structure in which the central portion of each of the plurality of second fingers is bent in a particular direction.

10. A display device, comprising: A liquid crystal display panel, the liquid crystal display panel including an effective area and a border area, the effective area being configured such that multiple gate lines and multiple data lines are alternately arranged on the effective area to define multiple sub-pixel areas, the border area being located outside the effective area, the effective area including a sensing area; and Optical elements configured to detect external light that has passed through the sensing area of ​​the liquid crystal display panel or to capture an image. in: Each of the plurality of sub-pixel regions includes a thin-film transistor and a pixel electrode; The pixel electrode disposed in the effective region excluding the sensing region includes a first body, a plurality of first fingers, and a connector. The first body is connected to the source electrode of the thin-film transistor disposed in the effective region excluding the sensing region. The plurality of first fingers are configured to extend from the first body, and the connector is configured to electrically connect the ends of the plurality of first fingers. The pixel electrode disposed in the sensing area includes a second body and a plurality of second fingers, the second body being connected to the source electrode of the thin-film transistor disposed in the sensing area, and the plurality of second fingers being configured to extend from the second body; The shape of the first finger is different from the shape of the second finger.

11. The display device according to claim 10, wherein: The plurality of first fingers have a compound angular structure at the center portion of each of the plurality of first fingers; The plurality of second fingers do not have the composite angular structure of the central portion of each of the plurality of second fingers.

12. The display device according to claim 10, wherein, Each of the plurality of first fingers includes at least two angled bends along its length between the proximal and distal ends.

13. The display device according to claim 10, wherein, The plurality of second fingers are linear along their length or include a single bend.

14. The display device according to claim 10, wherein: The plurality of first fingers have a structure configured such that each of the plurality of first fingers bends in a specific direction at the point where it is connected to the first body; The plurality of second fingers do not have a structure configured to bend at each point in the plurality of second fingers that connect to the second body.

15. The display device according to claim 10, wherein: The plurality of first fingers have a structure configured such that each of the plurality of first fingers is bent in a specific direction at the point where it is connected to the connector; The plurality of second fingers do not have a structure configured such that the ends of each of the plurality of second fingers are bent.

16. The display device according to claim 10, wherein, The number of the plurality of second fingers is less than the number of the plurality of first fingers.

17. The display device according to claim 10, wherein, The spacing between adjacent second fingers is greater than the spacing between adjacent first fingers.

18. The display device according to claim 10, wherein, The ends of the plurality of second fingers are not connected to each other.

19. The display device according to claim 10, wherein, The plurality of second fingers have a structure in which the central portion of each of the plurality of second fingers is bent in a particular direction.

20. The display device according to claim 10, wherein, The thin-film transistor includes a gate electrode, a semiconductor pattern, a drain electrode, a source electrode, a gate insulating film disposed between the gate electrode and the semiconductor pattern, and a component protective film configured to cover the semiconductor pattern, the drain electrode, and the source electrode. Wherein, the gate insulating film and the element protective film are not disposed below the pixel electrode in each of the sub-pixel regions of the sensing area.

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