Display device

Abstract

This disclosure relates to display devices. More specifically, a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure includes: a substrate including a display area having a plurality of sub-pixels; a light-emitting element disposed on the substrate corresponding to each of the plurality of sub-pixels; an encapsulation layer disposed on the light-emitting element; a plurality of color filters disposed above the encapsulation layer corresponding to each of the plurality of sub-pixels; and a black matrix having a three-layer structure of a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer stacked sequentially, characterized in that the display area includes an optical region through which light is transmitted and a normal region surrounding the optical region, and in the normal region, the refractive index of each of the first and third layers of the black matrix is ​​less than the refractive index of the second layer.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to display devices, and more specifically, for example, but not limited to, display devices having low reflectivity and improved display quality. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, organic light-emitting display devices include an anode, a cathode, and an organic light-emitting layer disposed therebetween. Since the cathode is formed using a metallic material with high reflectivity, external light is reflected by the metallic material, causing a deterioration in reflective visibility and contrast. Therefore, to reduce reflections caused by external light, a polarizing plate is disposed beneath the cover member to absorb external light. The polarizing plate is a film with a predetermined level of light transmittance, and it absorbs external light and its reflected light to prevent or reduce the reduction in contrast.

[0003] Recently, with increasing attention on flexible and thin display devices, a display device using a relatively thin polarizing film to replace a thick polarizing plate has been proposed. However, the polarizing film still suffers from a relatively thick thickness, and its functionality and display quality deteriorate as the thickness decreases.

[0004] Therefore, a color filter on encapsulation (CoE) structure has been proposed to replace polarizing plates or coated polarizing films. The CoE structure of this technology is such that a black matrix is ​​disposed on the encapsulation layer to correspond to the non-emitting areas, and the color filter is positioned to correspond to the emitting areas. In the CoE structure, the thickness of the display device can be reduced, and the transmittance can be easily adjusted, allowing for the absorption of external light and reflected light without reducing luminous efficiency.

[0005] The descriptions provided in the Background section should not be considered prior art simply because they are mentioned or associated with in the Background section. The Background section may include information describing one or more aspects of the subject matter art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The inventors of this disclosure have newly recognized that in the CoE structure, the black matrix is ​​formed to overlap with the touch lines of the touch sensing layer, and there is a problem that the lower touch lines are reflected. Furthermore, while the CoE structure transmits light emitted from the light-emitting element well, it has the disadvantage of having a reflectivity slightly higher than that of the polarizer.

[0007] Therefore, one aspect of this disclosure is to provide a display device with excellent display quality by reducing reflectivity and improving the visual recognition of touch lines while maintaining high brightness.

[0008] Furthermore, the multimedia capabilities of mobile terminals have recently been improved. Therefore, optical electronics, such as cameras and / or various sensors, are placed in specific areas of the display device's screen. These optical electronics can be arranged to receive light, such as infrared light, for operation without being exposed in front of the device to achieve full-screen display.

[0009] However, in the CoE structure, the black matrix is ​​configured to absorb light over a wide wavelength range to reduce reflectivity, and there is a problem that light such as infrared light cannot be properly received by optoelectronic devices.

[0010] Therefore, another aspect of this disclosure is to provide a display device having optical electronics that transmits light well in the infrared region and blocks light in the visible region, thereby facilitating the operation of the optical electronics and having low reflectivity.

[0011] The aspects of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and other aspects not mentioned above may be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

[0012] Additional features and aspects of this disclosure are set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description or may be learned by practicing the inventive concept provided herein. Other features and aspects of the inventive concept may be realized and obtained by means of the structures pointed out or derived therefrom in this disclosure and by the appended claims and drawings.

[0013] To achieve these and other aspects of the inventive concept, as implemented and broadly described herein, a display device includes: a substrate including a display area having a plurality of sub-pixels; a light-emitting element disposed on the substrate corresponding to each of the plurality of sub-pixels; an encapsulation layer disposed on the light-emitting element; a plurality of color filters disposed above the encapsulation layer corresponding to each of the plurality of sub-pixels; and a black matrix disposed above the encapsulation layer to space the plurality of color filters apart from each other, the black matrix having a three-layer structure of a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer stacked sequentially, the display area including an optical region through which light is transmitted and a normal region adjacent to the optical region, wherein in the normal region, the refractive index of each of the first and third layers of the black matrix is ​​less than the refractive index of the second layer.

[0014] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a display device is provided, comprising: a substrate including a display area having a plurality of sub-pixels; a light-emitting element disposed on the substrate corresponding to each of the plurality of sub-pixels; an encapsulation layer disposed on the light-emitting element; a plurality of color filters disposed above the encapsulation layer corresponding to each of the plurality of sub-pixels; and a black matrix disposed above the encapsulation layer to space the plurality of color filters apart from each other, the black matrix having a three-layer structure of a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer stacked sequentially, wherein the display area includes an optical area through which light is transmitted and a normal area adjacent to the optical area, wherein in the optical area, the first layer includes at least one selected from blue dye and purple dye, the second layer includes at least one selected from yellow dye and orange dye, and the third layer includes an organic black material.

[0015] Further details of the implementation methods are included in the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

[0016] The display device according to this disclosure has the advantage of excellent display quality because of its high brightness, low reflectivity, and the fact that touch lines are not visually recognized.

[0017] The display device according to this disclosure has the following advantages: in the region where the optical electronics are disposed, light in the infrared region is well transmitted, while light in the visible light region is blocked, which makes the operation of the optical electronics smooth and the external light reflectivity low.

[0018] The effects of this disclosure are not limited to the examples above, and this disclosure includes many more effects.

[0019] It should be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory, and are intended to provide further explanation of the claimed inventive concept. Attached Figure Description

[0020] The accompanying drawings may be included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and may be incorporated into and constitute a part of the present disclosure. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the various principles of the present disclosure.

[0021] The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of this disclosure will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic plan view of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 2 This is an enlarged plan view illustrating the arrangement of sub-pixels in a normal area of ​​a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 3 This is an enlarged plan view illustrating the arrangement of sub-pixels in an optical region of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the cross-sectional structure of a portion of a pixel region disposed in a normal area in a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the cross-sectional structure of some sub-pixels disposed in the optical region of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figures 6A to 6C This is a schematic diagram illustrating various example structures of the black matrix.

[0028] Figure 7A It is a subpixel photograph of a conventional display device that includes a single-layer black matrix.

[0029] Figure 7B It is a sub-pixel photograph of a display device having a black matrix with a three-layer structure according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the cross-sectional structure of some sub-pixels disposed in an optical region in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 9 This is a graph showing the transmittance based on the configuration of the black matrix.

[0032] Throughout the accompanying drawings and detailed description, unless otherwise described, the same reference numerals should be understood to refer to the same elements, features, and structures. The relative dimensions and illustrations of these elements may be exaggerated for clarity, illustrative purposes, and convenience. Detailed Implementation

[0033] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of this disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following description, detailed descriptions of well-known functions or configurations relevant to this document will be omitted where it is determined that such detailed descriptions would unnecessarily obscure the essential points of the inventive concept. The progression of the described processing steps and / or operations is exemplary; however, the order of steps and / or operations is not limited to the order set forth herein and can be varied as is known in the art, except for steps and / or operations that necessarily occur in a particular order. Similar reference numerals designate similar elements throughout. The names of corresponding elements used in the following description may have been chosen solely for ease of writing and may therefore differ from the names used in actual products.

[0034] The advantages and features of this disclosure, as well as the methods for achieving these advantages and features, will be described with reference to the following appendix. Figure 1 The exemplary embodiments described herein will become clear. However, this disclosure is not limited to the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, but will be implemented in various forms. The exemplary embodiments are provided by way of example only so that those skilled in the art can fully understand the disclosure and scope of this disclosure. Any implementation described herein as an "example" is not necessarily to be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other implementations.

[0035] The shapes, dimensions, ratios, angles, quantities, etc., shown in the accompanying drawings to describe exemplary embodiments of this disclosure are merely examples, and this disclosure is not limited thereto. Furthermore, in the following description of this disclosure, detailed explanations of known related technologies may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the subject matter of this disclosure. Terms such as “comprising,” “having,” and “consisting of” as used herein are generally intended to allow for the addition of other components, unless these terms are used in conjunction with more restrictive terms such as “only.” Elements described in the singular are intended to include multiple elements, and vice versa, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0036] When interpreting a component, it is interpreted as including a normal error range or tolerance range, even if there is no explicit description of such an error or tolerance range.

[0037] When describing positional relationships, such as using terms like "on," "above," "below," "above," "under," "below," "near," "close to," "adjacent to," "beside," or "next to" to describe the positional relationship between two components, one or more other components may be placed between the two components unless more restrictive terms such as "immediately," "directly," or "closely" are used. For example, when a structure is described as being "above," "below," "on top," "below," "below," "near," "close to," "adjacent to," "beside," or "next to" another structure, this description should be interpreted to include situations where these structures are in contact with each other and situations where a third structure is placed or inserted between them. Furthermore, the terms "left," "right," "top," "bottom," "down," "up," "upper," "lower," etc., refer to any frame of reference.

[0038] When an element or layer is placed "on" another element or layer, another layer or element may be placed directly on or between the other element.

[0039] Although the terms "first," "second," "A," "B," "(a)," "(b)," etc., are used to describe various components, the nature, order, sequence, or number of these components is not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from others. Therefore, the first component referred to below may be the second component in the technical concept of this disclosure.

[0040] Throughout this disclosure, similar reference numerals generally denote similar elements.

[0041] The term “at least one” should be understood to include any and all combinations of one or more of the related listed items. For example, “at least one of the first element, the second element and the third element” means all combinations of the three listed elements, any combination of any two of the three elements, and each individual element, the first element, the second element or the third element.

[0042] In the description of the embodiments, when a structure is described as being "above" or "below" another structure, this description should be interpreted to include situations where the structures are in contact with each other and where a third structure is disposed therebetween. The dimensions and thicknesses of each component shown in the figures are illustrative for ease of description, and this disclosure is not limited to the dimensions and thicknesses of the components shown.

[0043] Features of the various embodiments of this disclosure may be partially or wholly adhered to or combined with each other, and may be technically interlocked and operated in various ways, and the embodiments may be performed independently or in association with each other.

[0044] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the exemplary embodiments pertain. It will also be understood that terms such as those defined in common dictionaries shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent, for example, with their meaning in the context of the relevant field, and shall not be interpreted as having an idealized or overly formal meaning unless expressly defined herein. For example, the terms “component” or “unit” may be applied, for example, to a single circuit or structure, an integrated circuit, a computational block of a circuit arrangement, or any structure configured to perform the described functions as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0045] In the following, display devices according to various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, all components of each display device according to all embodiments of the present disclosure are operatively connected and configured.

[0046] Figure 1 This is a schematic plan view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2This is an enlarged plan view illustrating the arrangement of sub-pixels in a normal area of ​​a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 This is an enlarged plan view illustrating the arrangement of sub-pixels in an optical region of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Reference Figures 1 to 3 The display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include a display panel DP for displaying images and one or more optical electronic devices 170.

[0048] A display panel (DP) is a panel used to display images to a user. A display panel (DP) may include display elements for displaying images, driving elements for driving the display elements, and wiring for transmitting various signals to the display elements and driving elements. The display panel (DP) may be an organic light-emitting display panel. For example, the display element may be an organic light-emitting element comprising an anode, a light-emitting layer, and a cathode. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and various other types of display panels, such as inorganic light-emitting display panels (e.g., micro LED display panels), may also be applicable.

[0049] Optical electronics 170 can be a device that receives light transmitted through the display panel DP and performs a predetermined function based on the received light. Optical electronics 170 may include light receiving devices such as cameras or sensors that receive light.

[0050] Optical electronics 170 can be located on the rear surface of the display panel DP (the surface opposite to the surface on which the image is displayed). As described above, optical electronics 170 is a device that requires light reception, but it can be located on the rear surface of the display panel DP. Therefore, optical electronics 170 is not exposed on the front surface of the display device 100. Therefore, optical electronics 170 is not visible when the user looks at the front surface of the display device 100.

[0051] The display panel (DP) can include the display area (DA) and the non-display area (NDA).

[0052] The display area DA is the area in the display panel DP where the image is displayed. Within the display area DA, multiple sub-pixels constituting multiple pixels and one or more circuits for driving these sub-pixels can be arranged. The multiple sub-pixels can be the smallest unit constituting the display area DA, and a display element can be arranged in each of the multiple sub-pixels, and the multiple sub-pixels can constitute a pixel. For example, an organic light-emitting element including an anode, a light-emitting layer, and a cathode can be arranged in each of the multiple sub-pixels, but this is not limited to this. Furthermore, the circuits for driving the multiple sub-pixels can include components such as driving elements and wiring. For example, the circuits can include thin-film transistors, storage capacitors, gate lines, data lines, etc., but are not limited to this.

[0053] The non-display area (NDA) is the area where no image is displayed. The NDA can be bent and not visible from the front surface, or it can be covered by a shell, or it can be referred to as the border area.

[0054] Figure 1 An example is shown where the non-display area NDA has a rectangular frame shape surrounding the rectangular display area DA, but this is not an exception. The shape and arrangement of the display area DA and the non-display area NDA are not limited to this. Figure 1 The example shown. For example, the display area DA and the non-display area NDA can vary depending on the design of the electronic device equipped with the display device 100.

[0055] In the non-display area NDA, various wiring and circuits for driving the organic light-emitting elements of the display area DA can be set up. For example, in the non-display area NDA, link lines for transmitting signals to multiple sub-pixels and circuits of the display area DA, in-panel gating (GIP) lines, or driver ICs such as gating driver ICs or data driver ICs can be set up, but not limited to these.

[0056] The display area DA may include a normal area NA and at least one optical area DA1. For example, the display area DA may include a normal area NA and an optical area DA1. The normal area NA is the area in the display area DA other than the optical area DA1. The normal area NA may be formed to be adjacent to the optical area DA1 (e.g., surrounding the optical area DA1).

[0057] At least a portion of the optical region DA1 may overlap with the optical electronics 170.

[0058] In the display device 100 according to the exemplary embodiment, even if the optical electronics 170 is positioned to be hidden behind the display panel DP, the optical electronics 170 can receive light normally and perform the predetermined function normally.

[0059] Therefore, the optical region DA1 can have both an image display structure and a light-transmitting structure. For example, since the optical region DA1 is a part of the display region DA, sub-pixels for displaying images can be set in the optical region DA1. In one or more optical regions DA1, a light-transmitting structure for transmitting light to one or more optical electronic devices 170 can be formed.

[0060] The display area DA includes a normal area NA and an optical area DA1, which are areas where images can be displayed. However, the normal area NA is an area that does not need to form a light-transmitting structure, while the optical area DA1 is an area that needs to form a light-transmitting structure. Therefore, the optical area DA1 can have a predetermined level or higher transmittance, while the normal area NA can have no transmittance, or have a predetermined level or lower low transmittance.

[0061] As a method to increase the transmittance of the optical region DA1, the pixel densities of the optical region DA1 and the normal region NA can be designed differently. Therefore, the optical region DA1 and the normal region NA can have different resolutions, different sub-pixel arrangements, different numbers of sub-pixels per unit area, different electrode structures, different line structures, different electrode arrangements, or different line arrangements.

[0062] For example, the number of subpixels per unit area in the optical region DA1 can be less than the number of subpixels per unit area in the normal region NA. For example, the resolution of the optical region DA1 can be lower than the resolution of the normal region NA. In this case, the number of subpixels per unit area is a unit of measurement for resolution and can be called pixels per inch (PPI), which represents the number of pixels per inch.

[0063] As another example, to increase the transmittance of the optical region DA1, the pixel sizes of the optical region DA1 and the normal region NA can be made different. Specifically, the number of sub-pixels per unit area of ​​the optical region DA1 is the same or similar to the number of sub-pixels per unit area of ​​the normal region NA, but the size of each sub-pixel in the optical region DA1 (e.g., the size of the light-emitting area) can be made smaller than the size of each sub-pixel in the normal region NA (e.g., the size of the light-emitting area).

[0064] For ease of description, the following will describe an example in which the pixel density of the optical region DA1 is formed to be less than the pixel density of the normal region NA in order to increase the transmittance of the optical region DA1.

[0065] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 Multiple sub-pixels can be provided in each of the normal area NA and the optical area DA1 included in the display area DA. For example, the multiple sub-pixels may include a red sub-pixel Red SP that emits red light, a green sub-pixel Green SP that emits green light, and a blue sub-pixel Blue SP that emits blue light, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. Each of the multiple sub-pixels may include a light-emitting area EA. Figure 2 and Figure 3In this model, each subpixel is represented as a circular shape, but is not limited to this. The shape and arrangement of subpixels can be varied as needed.

[0066] Reference Figure 2 The normal region NA can include the luminescent region EA but not the transmissive structure. In contrast, the optical region DA1 can include not only the luminescent region EA but also the transmissive structure. Therefore, referring to... Figure 3 The optical region DA1 may include the light-emitting region EA and the transmission region TA1.

[0067] The luminescent region EA and the transmissive region TA1 can be distinguished based on whether light is transmitted or emitted. For example, the luminescent region EA can be the region that generates light and emits it to the outside, while the transmissive region TA1 can be the region that transmits external light.

[0068] Furthermore, the light-emitting region EA and the transmission region TA1 can be distinguished based on whether a specific metal layer is formed. For example, in the transmission region TA1, components that reflect light to be transmitted to the optoelectronic device 170, such as touch lines or cathodes, may not be provided. Additionally, in the transmission region TA1, components that absorb light, such as dikes or black matrices, may not be provided. However, this disclosure is not limited to this, and in the transmission region TA1, depending on the design structure or to increase the amount of light received by the optoelectronic device 170, a light-emitting layer or some organic / inorganic insulating layers may not be provided.

[0069] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the cross-sectional structure of a portion of a pixel region disposed in a normal area in a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0070] In the normal region NA, the transistor layer TRL can be disposed on the substrate SUB, and the planarization layer PLN can be disposed on the transistor layer TRL. Furthermore, the light-emitting element layer EDL can be disposed on the planarization layer PLN, the encapsulation layer ENCAP can be disposed on the light-emitting element layer EDL, the touch sensing layer TSL can be disposed on the encapsulation layer ENCAP, and the protective layer 119d can be disposed on the touch sensing layer TSL. Additionally, the black matrix BM and multiple color filters CF can be disposed on the protective layer 119d.

[0071] The substrate SUB is an assembly used to support various components included in the display device 100 and may include insulating material. The substrate SUB may include a first substrate 110a, a second substrate 110b, and an interlayer insulating film 110c. As described above, the substrate SUB includes the first substrate 110a, the second substrate 110b, and the interlayer insulating film 110c, thereby preventing or reducing moisture penetration. For example, the first substrate 110a and the second substrate 110b may be polyimide (PI) substrates. In another example, each of the first substrate 110a and the second substrate 110b may include glass or plastic, a flexible polymer film, etc. For example, the flexible polymer film can be made of any of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyethersulfone (PES), cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), cellulose triacetate (TAC) film, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film, polyimide (PI) film, and polystyrene (PS), which are merely examples and not necessarily limited thereto.

[0072] In the transistor layer TRL, various patterns 131a, 132a, 133a, 134a, 131b, 132b, 133b, 134b, various insulating films 111, 112a, 112b, 113b, 114 and 115 can be provided, as well as various metal patterns 135a, 135b, 135c and 135d for forming transistors such as driving transistor Td and at least one switching transistor Ts, and at least one capacitor.

[0073] A multi-buffer layer 111 can be disposed on the second substrate 110b, and a first metal layer 135a and a second metal layer 135b can be disposed on the multi-buffer layer 111. The first metal layer 135a can be used to block light and can be referred to as a light-blocking layer. The first metal layer 135a can prevent or reduce the damage or influence of light on the second active layer 134b of the switching transistor Ts formed by oxide semiconductor.

[0074] The first interlayer insulating film 112a can be disposed on the first metal layer 135a and the second metal layer 135b. The third metal layer 135c can be disposed on the first interlayer insulating film 112a, overlapping with the second metal layer 135b to realize the capacitor Cst. The third metal layer 135c of the capacitor Cst can be electrically connected to the second source electrode 132b or the second drain electrode 133b of the switching transistor Ts. However, the connection relationship of the capacitor Cst can be changed according to the pixel driving circuit, and is not limited thereto.

[0075] The second interlayer insulating film 112b can be disposed on the third metal layer 135c.

[0076] A fourth metal layer 135d may be disposed on the second interlayer insulating film 112b. The fourth metal layer 135d may be used to block light and may be referred to as a light-shielding layer. The fourth metal layer 135d may prevent or reduce the damage or influence of light on the first active layer 134a of the driving transistor Td formed by oxide semiconductor.

[0077] The active buffer layer 113 can be disposed on the fourth metal layer 135d, and the first active layer 134a of the driving transistor Td and the second active layer 134b of the switching transistor Ts can be disposed on the active buffer layer 113.

[0078] The first active layer 134a of the driving transistor Td can be configured to overlap with the fourth metal layer 135d, and the active buffer layer 113 can be inserted therebetween.

[0079] The second active layer 134b of the switching transistor Ts can be configured to overlap with the first metal layer 135a, and the first interlayer insulating film 112a, the second interlayer insulating film 112b and the active buffer layer 113 are inserted therebetween.

[0080] For example, the first active layer 134a and the second active layer 134b can be formed independently of polycrystalline silicon, amorphous silicon, or oxide semiconductor, but are not limited thereto. For ease of processing, the first active layer 134a and the second active layer 134b can be formed from the same material using the same process.

[0081] The gate insulating film 114 can be disposed on the first active layer 134a and the second active layer 134b.

[0082] The first gate electrode 131a of the driving transistor Td and the second gate electrode 131b of the switching transistor Ts can be disposed on the gate insulating film 114. The first gate electrode 131a of the driving transistor Td can be configured to overlap with the first active layer 134a, with the gate insulating film 114 inserted therebetween, and the second gate electrode 131b of the switching transistor Ts can be configured to overlap with the second active layer 134b, with the gate insulating film 114 inserted therebetween.

[0083] For example, the first gate electrode 131a and the second gate electrode 131b may each be independently formed from any one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu), or an alloy thereof, in a single layer or multiple layers, but are not limited thereto. For ease of processing, the first gate electrode 131a and the second gate electrode 131b may be formed from the same material using the same process.

[0084] The third interlayer insulating layer 115 can be disposed on the first gate electrode 131a and the second gate electrode 131b.

[0085] The first source electrode 132a and the first drain electrode 133a of the driving transistor Td, and the second source electrode 132b and the second drain electrode 133b of the switching transistor Ts can be disposed on the third interlayer insulating film 115.

[0086] For example, the first source electrode 132a, the first drain electrode 133a, the second source electrode 132b, and the second drain electrode 133b can each be independently formed of a single layer or multiple layers of magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), molybdenum (Mo), tungsten (W), gold (Au), or their alloys, but are not limited thereto. For ease of processing, the first source electrode 132a, the first drain electrode 133a, the second source electrode 132b, and the second drain electrode 133b can be simultaneously formed of the same material on the third interlayer insulating film 115.

[0087] The first source electrode 132a and the first drain electrode 133a can be connected to one side and the other side of the first active layer 134a respectively through contact holes provided in the gate insulating film 114 and the third interlayer insulating film 115. When the first active layer 134a is formed of oxide semiconductor, the side of the first active layer 134a connected to the first source electrode 132a and the first drain electrode 133a can be doped with impurities to become conductive.

[0088] The second source electrode 132b and the second drain electrode 133b can be connected to one side and the other side of the second active layer 134b respectively through contact holes provided in the gate insulating film 114 and the third interlayer insulating film 115. When the second active layer 134b is formed of oxide semiconductor, the side of the second active layer 134b connected to the second source electrode 132b and the second drain electrode 133b can be doped with impurities to become conductive.

[0089] The first planarization layer 116a may be disposed on the first source electrode 132a, the first drain electrode 133a, the second source electrode 132b, and the second drain electrode 133b. The first planarization layer 116a protects the driving transistor Td and the switching transistor Ts and planarizes their upper parts.

[0090] The connection electrode 125 can be disposed on the first planarization layer 116a. The connection electrode 125 can be connected to one of the first source electrode 132a and the first drain electrode 133a through a contact hole disposed in the first planarization layer 116a. For example, the first drain electrode 133a can be connected to the connection electrode 125.

[0091] The second planarization layer 116b can be disposed on the connecting electrode 125.

[0092] The light-emitting element layer (EDL) can be disposed on the second planarization layer 116b. The EDL can include a light-emitting element 120, which includes an anode 121, a light-emitting layer 122, and a cathode 123. The light-emitting element 120 can be configured to correspond to each of a plurality of sub-pixels.

[0093] The anode 121 may be disposed on the second planarization layer 116b. The anode 121 may be electrically connected to the connection electrode 125 through a contact hole disposed in the second planarization layer 116b. The anode 121 may comprise a transparent conductive oxide. For example, the anode 121 may comprise a transparent conductive oxide such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO), but is not limited thereto. In the case of a top-emitting type where light emitted from the light-emitting element 120 is emitted toward the top of the display device 100, the anode 121 may also comprise a reflective layer to allow the light to travel upward.

[0094] The embankment 117 may be disposed on the second planarization layer 116b to expose at least a portion of the anode 121. The embankment 117 may be configured to cover the end of the anode 121 and make a portion of the light-emitting area corresponding to the sub-pixel open.

[0095] The dam 117 may be made of an inorganic insulating material such as silicon nitride (SiNx) or silicon oxide (SiOx), or an organic insulating material such as benzocyclobutene resin, acrylic resin, or imide resin, and may be formed as a single layer or multiple layers, but is not limited thereto. The dam 117 may include a dye formed from black resin or a dye capable of absorbing light to prevent or reduce color mixing between sub-pixels.

[0096] Spacers may be further provided on the embankment 117, and the spacers may include the same material as the embankment 117.

[0097] The light-emitting layer 122 may be disposed on the anode 121. The light-emitting layer 122 is not individually disposed for each of the plurality of sub-pixels and may be formed as a common layer, but is not limited thereto. The light-emitting layer 122 may be disposed on the anode 121 to correspond to the light-emitting area of ​​each of the plurality of sub-pixels. The light-emitting element 120 may include a plurality of organic films in addition to the light-emitting layer 122.

[0098] The cathode 123 can be disposed on the light-emitting layer 122.

[0099] The encapsulation layer ENCAP can be disposed on the light-emitting element layer EDL. The encapsulation layer ENCAP can have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure. For example, the encapsulation layer ENCAP may include a first encapsulation layer 118a, a second encapsulation layer 118b, and a third encapsulation layer 118c.

[0100] In this case, the first encapsulation layer 118a and the third encapsulation layer 118c can be inorganic films, and the second encapsulation layer 118b can be an organic film. The second encapsulation layer 118b, as an organic film, can be coated thickly, so that the upper part of the light-emitting element 120 can be planarized, can easily absorb shocks, and can cover foreign matter introduced during the process.

[0101] The touch sensing layer TSL can be set on the encapsulation layer ENCAP.

[0102] The first touch buffer film 119a can be disposed on the encapsulation layer ENCAP. The first touch buffer film 119a prevents or reduces damage to the light-emitting element 120 during the process of forming the touch sensing layer TSL.

[0103] The touch line 140 can be disposed on the first touch buffer film 119a. The touch line 140 can be disposed to overlap with the embankment 117 so as not to reduce the luminous efficiency of the light emitted from the light-emitting element 120.

[0104] The touch line 140 may include touch sensor metal (also known as touch sensor electrode) 141 and bridging metal (also known as bridging electrode) 142 located on different layers.

[0105] A second touch buffer film 119b and an organic insulating layer 119c can be disposed between the bridging metal 142 and the touch sensor metal 141. The bridging metal 142 can be disposed on the first touch buffer film 119a. The second touch buffer film 119b and the organic insulating layer 119c can be disposed on the bridging metal 142. The second touch buffer film 119b insulates the bridging metal 142 and the touch sensor metal 141 from each other and from adjacent bridging metals 142. The organic insulating layer 119c is formed of an organic material to provide a flat surface and has relatively excellent cushioning performance, thereby preventing or reducing damage to the touch sensing layer (TSL). The touch sensor metal 141 can be disposed on the organic insulating layer 119c. The touch sensor metal 141 can be electrically connected to the bridging metal 142 through contact holes formed in the second touch buffer film 119b and the organic insulating layer 119c.

[0106] A protective layer 119d may be disposed on the touch sensing layer TSL. The protective layer 119d may be configured to cover the touch line 140. The protective layer 119d may include an organic insulating material. The protective layer 119d prevents or reduces damage to the touch sensing layer TSL during the process of forming the color filter CF and the black matrix BM. Furthermore, the protective layer 119d planarizes the upper portion of the touch sensing layer TSL.

[0107] Multiple color filters (CF) and a black matrix (BM) are set on the protective layer 119d.

[0108] Multiple color filters (CF) and a black matrix (BM) suppress the reflection of external light. Light introduced from the outside may be reflected by the touch line 140, which is made of metal with high reflectivity, the anode 121 of the light-emitting element 120, or a component made of metal disposed below the light-emitting element 120. The visibility of the image displayed on the display device 100 may be degraded due to reflected light.

[0109] The color filter CF and the black matrix BM prevent or reduce the transmission of external light into the display device 100, and allow light emitted from the light-emitting element 120 to be well transmitted to the outside of the display device 100.

[0110] Each of the multiple color filters CF can be disposed on the protective layer 119d to correspond to each of the multiple sub-pixels. The multiple color filters CF may include a red color filter, a green color filter, and a blue color filter. The red color filter may be configured to correspond to a red sub-pixel, the green color filter may be configured to correspond to a green sub-pixel, and the blue color filter may be configured to correspond to a blue sub-pixel. At least a portion of each of the multiple color filters CF may overlap with at least a portion of the black matrix BM.

[0111] Traditional polarizers are not individually configured for each of the multiple sub-pixels, but are instead formed as a common layer. This results in low reflectivity (approximately 45% or less) due to the low transmittance, but also leads to brightness degradation.

[0112] The color filter CF is configured to correspond to each of the multiple sub-pixels and forms a color corresponding to the color of each sub-pixel. Therefore, when the color filter CF and the black matrix BM are configured, the transmittance is approximately 40% to 70%, which is higher than the transmittance of the polarizer. Thus, light emitted from the light-emitting element 120 disposed in each sub-pixel is well transmitted, but external light can be easily absorbed. Therefore, power consumption can be reduced, lifespan can be increased, and the thickness of the display device without the polarizer can be thinner.

[0113] A black matrix (BM) can be set on the protective layer 119d to separate multiple color filters (CFs) from each other. Therefore, the black matrix (BM) prevents or reduces color mixing of light emitted from each of adjacent sub-pixels.

[0114] The black matrix BM can be set at the position corresponding to the dike section 117.

[0115] The width of the black matrix BM can differ from the width of the dike 117. For example, the width of the black matrix BM can be made narrower than the width of the dike 117. Therefore, the opening width of the black matrix BM is made wider than the opening width of the dike 117. In this case, a pull-back structure is formed in which the end of the black matrix BM is positioned more recessed than the end of the dike 117. This pull-back structure provides a wide viewing angle. For example, when the distance between the end of the dike 117 and the end of the corresponding black matrix BM is 4.3 micrometers (µm), a 30° viewing angle based on 60% brightness can be ensured. When the distance between the end of the dike 117 and the end of the corresponding black matrix BM is 6.4 µm, a 45° viewing angle based on 60% brightness can be ensured, and when the distance is 8.4 µm, a 60° viewing angle based on 60% brightness can be ensured.

[0116] The black matrix BM can be positioned at the intersection with the touch line 140. The width of the black matrix BM can be different from the width of the touch line 140. The width of the touch line 140 can be narrower than the width of the black matrix BM, so that the touch line 140, which is made of a metal with high reflectivity, is not exposed.

[0117] Therefore, in the display device according to this embodiment, the black matrix BM can have a three-layer structure comprising a first layer BM1, a second layer BM2, and a third layer BM3 stacked sequentially. Each of the black matrix BMs will be described later.

[0118] The outer coating OC can be applied over multiple color filters CF and black matrix BM. The outer coating OC covers multiple color filters CF and black matrix BM to planarize the upper surface. The outer coating OC can include an organic material with excellent flatness and optical transparency.

[0119] Although not shown in the figure, the cover member can be joined to the outer cover OC.

[0120] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 5 The optical region DA1 of the display device 100 is described in more detail. Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the cross-sectional structure of some sub-pixels disposed in the optical region of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0121] Optical region DA1 is an area where one or more optical electronic devices 170 are disposed. Therefore, optical region DA1 overlaps with one or more optical electronic devices 170. Optical region DA1 can transmit light required for the operation of optical electronic devices 170 while displaying an image. Therefore, optical region DA1 includes a light-emitting region EA and a transmission region TA1.

[0122] The light-emitting region EA and the transmission region TA1 of the optical region DA1 may include a substrate SUB, a transistor layer TRL, a planarization layer PLN, a light-emitting element layer EDL, a packaging layer ENCAP, a touch sensor layer TSL, a protective layer 119d, a color filter CF, a black matrix BM, and an outer cover layer OC.

[0123] The substrate SUB, transistor layer TRL, planarization layer PLN, light-emitting element layer EDL, encapsulation layer ENCAP, touch sensor layer TSL, protective layer 119d, color filter CF, black matrix BM, and outer cover layer OC included in the optical region DA1 are substantially the same as the components with the same reference numerals provided in the normal region NA of the display panel DP. Therefore, their redundant descriptions will be omitted or briefly provided.

[0124] Optical electronics 170 may be disposed on the rear surface of substrate SUB in optical region DA1. As described above, optical electronics 170 may include a light receiving device such as a camera or sensor that receives light.

[0125] In the optical region DA1, except for the absence of touch line 140, the structure of the light-emitting region EA is basically the same as that of the normal region NA of the display panel DP, so redundant descriptions will be omitted or briefly provided. For example, touch line 140 may not be provided in the optical region DA1.

[0126] The following text will describe the transmission region TA1 located in the optical region DA1.

[0127] The substrate SUB and various insulating films 111, 112a, 112b, 113, 114, 115, 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b, 118c, 119a, 119b, 119c, 119d and OC, which are disposed in the light-emitting area EA of the optical area DA1, can also be disposed in the transmission area TA1 of the optical area DA1.

[0128] However, apart from the insulating material set in the light-emitting region EA of the optical region DA1, some material layers with electrical or opaque properties may not be set in the transmission region TA1 of the optical region DA1.

[0129] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the metal material layers 135a, 135b, 135c, 135d, 131a, 132a, 133a, 131b, 132b, 133b and the semiconductor layers 134a, 134b are not disposed in the transmission region TA1. Furthermore, the anode 121 included in the light-emitting element 120 may not be disposed in the transmission region TA1. Additionally, the touch line 140 may not be disposed in the transmission region TA1. Furthermore, to ensure the transmittance of the transmission region TA1, the cathode 123 may not be disposed in the transmission region TA1.

[0130] Since the transmission region TA1 of the optical region DA1 overlaps with the optical electronic device 170, opaque components such as metal electrodes are not placed in the transmission region TA1 in order to ensure the normal operation of the optical electronic device 170, thereby increasing the transmittance of the transmission region TA1.

[0131] In addition, to increase the transmittance of the transmission region TA1, the color filter CF may not be placed in the transmission region TA1.

[0132] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 4 and Figure 5 Describe in detail the black matrix BM with a three-layer structure.

[0133] In the normal region NA and the optical region DA1, the black matrix BM can have a three-layer structure consisting of a first layer BM1, a second layer BM2, and a third layer BM3 stacked sequentially.

[0134] The refractive index of each of the first layer BM1 and the third layer BM3 can be less than the refractive index of the second layer BM2. For example, the first layer BM1 and the third layer BM3 can be low-refractive-index layers, and the second layer BM2 can be a high-refractive-index layer.

[0135] The first layer BM1 and the third layer BM3, which are low-refractive-index layers, are used to shield external light so that it does not transmit into the display panel.

[0136] Because the second layer BM2, which is a high-refractive-index layer, is positioned between the first layer BM1 and the third layer BM3, which are low-refractive-index layers, external light can be effectively blocked through refractive index matching. This also prevents or avoids the introduction of some external light or unwanted internal reflected light into the display panel from being visually recognized by the user. Therefore, the low reflectivity and the absence of visual recognition of the underlying touch line 140 through the display device 100 enable the provision of a display device with excellent display quality.

[0137] The first layer BM1 and the third layer BM3 can be black matrix layers comprising black material, and the second layer BM2 can be a red matrix layer, a blue matrix layer, or a white matrix layer. In this case, due to the difference in refractive index between the layers, external light is absorbed, and some external light or unwanted internal reflected light introduced into the display panel can be prevented or avoided from being visually recognized. For example, the second layer BM2 can be a white matrix layer. In this case, the difference in refractive index between each of the first layer BM1 and the third layer BM3 as black matrix layers and the second layer BM2 as white matrix layers is greater, which is more advantageous in reducing reflectivity and can solve the problem of visual recognition of the lower touch line 140.

[0138] The optical density (OD) of the third layer BM3 in the black matrix BM can be set to be higher than that of the first layer BM1. Optical density (OD) is a physical property of a sample that indicates the degree of light absorption. Among the first layer BM1, the second layer BM2, and the third layer BM3 of the black matrix BM, the third layer BM3 is located closest to the display surface. Therefore, in order to maximize or improve the external light absorption rate, the optical density of the third layer BM3 can be higher than that of the first layer BM1.

[0139] For example, the optical density (1 μm per unit length) of the third layer BM3 can be 1 to 2, and the optical density (1 μm per unit length) of the first layer BM1 can be 1 or lower. In this case, while the external light absorption rate is excellent, the lower touch line 140 will not be visually recognized.

[0140] Each of the first layer BM1 and the third layer BM3, which form the black matrix layer, can include an inorganic black material. For example, the inorganic black material can be carbon black, but is not limited to this. Inorganic black materials greatly increase the absorption rate of external light by increasing optical density.

[0141] In order to make the optical density of the third layer BM3 higher than that of the first layer BM1, the weight ratio of the inorganic black material included in the third layer BM3 can be higher than that of the inorganic black material included in the first layer BM1.

[0142] If desired, the first layer BM1 can be formed of any organic black material, such as aniline black, lactam black, and perylene black, rather than an inorganic black material. When such an organic black material is used, its optical density is lower than that of the inorganic black material. Therefore, when the third layer BM3 comprises an inorganic black material and the first layer BM1 comprises an organic black material, the optical density of the third layer BM3 can be formed to be higher than that of the first layer BM1.

[0143] When the second layer BM2 is a red matrix layer, it may include red dye, and when the second layer BM2 is a blue matrix layer, it may include blue dye.

[0144] For example, the second layer BM2 can be a white matrix layer. When the second layer BM2 is a white matrix layer, it can include white nanoparticles. For example, the white nanoparticles can be titanium dioxide (TiO2), but are not limited to this. Specifically, for example, the white nanoparticles can be one or more of rutile titanium dioxide and anatase titanium dioxide. Furthermore, the shape of the titanium dioxide can include at least one selected from spherical, hollow, and core-shell structures, but is not limited to this. These white nanoparticles have a high refractive index. Therefore, the refractive index difference between the first layer BM1 and the second layer BM2, and the refractive index difference between the third layer BM3 and the second layer BM2, are maximized or increased to further reduce reflectivity and further suppress visual recognition of the lower touch line 140.

[0145] For example, the refractive index of the first layer BM1 of the black matrix BM can be 1.6 to 1.7, the refractive index of the second layer BM2 can be 2.0 to 2.5, and the refractive index of the third layer BM3 can be 1.5 to 1.6. When the refractive indices of the first layer BM1, the second layer BM2, and the third layer BM3 of the black matrix BM are adjusted as described above, the incidence of external light can be minimized or reduced, internal reflected light can be made visually undetectable, and the visibility of the lower touch line 140 can be minimized or reduced. Therefore, a display device 100 with excellent display quality can be provided.

[0146] According to this embodiment, the widths of the first layer BM1, the second layer BM2, and the third layer BM3 of the black matrix BM can all be the same. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0147] Figures 6A to 6C This is a schematic diagram illustrating various structures of a black matrix. In the following text, reference will be made to... Figures 6A to 6C Describe the various structures of the black matrix BM. Figures 6A to 6C For ease of description, apart from the black matrix BM, anode 121 and embankment 117, the other components are not shown.

[0148] Reference Figure 6A The width of the first layer BM1 of the black matrix BM can be greater than the width of the second layer BM2 and the width of the third layer BM3. Furthermore, the widths of the second layer BM2 and the third layer BM3 can be the same.

[0149] The end of the first layer BM1 can be formed to match the end of the corresponding embankment 117. Therefore, the first layer BM1 can be formed without indentation.

[0150] Each of the widths of the second layer BM2 and the third layer BM3 can be made smaller than the width of the first layer BM1, such that the ends of the second layer BM2 and the third layer BM3 can be located further outward than the ends of the corresponding dike portion 117. Therefore, the ends of the second layer BM2 and the third layer BM3 can be formed as recessed structures further back than the ends of the dike portion 117.

[0151] In this case, the area that can absorb external light is increased by forming the first layer BM1 without indentation, which can be advantageous in terms of reducing reflectivity.

[0152] However, it can be applied to some devices where light is blocked by a first layer of BM1 formed without indentation and a wide viewing angle is not required.

[0153] Reference Figure 6B In another embodiment, the first layer BM1 of the black matrix BM can be formed with a wider width and no indentation, the second layer BM2 can be formed with a narrower width than the first layer BM1, and the third layer BM3 can be formed with a narrower width than the second layer BM2. Therefore, the black matrix BM can be formed in a stepped shape.

[0154] In this case, with Figure 6A Compared to the black matrix shown, the area of ​​the third BM3 layer is reduced, which may be disadvantageous in terms of absorbing external light. However, the width of the third BM3 layer is formed to be greater than that of the black matrix shown. Figure 6A The narrow width of the black matrix shown can be advantageous in terms of ensuring a good viewing angle.

[0155] Reference Figure 6C In another embodiment, the first layer BM1 of the black matrix BM can be formed with a wider width and no indentation, the second layer BM2 can be formed with a narrower width than the first layer BM1, and the third layer BM3 can be formed with a narrower width than the second layer BM2. In this case, the side surfaces of the first layer BM1, the second layer BM2, and the third layer BM3 can be formed as inclined structures with the same degree of inclination.

[0156] Therefore, the black matrix BM can be formed into a trapezoidal shape or a truncated pyramid shape.

[0157] The black matrix BM with this structure can be advantageous in ensuring a wide brightness viewing angle. Furthermore, the tilt of each side surface of the first layer BM1, the second layer BM2, and the third layer BM3 can be adjusted according to the desired viewing angle.

[0158] As described above, in conventional CoE structures, there is a problem that touch lines disposed beneath the black matrix are visually recognized, thereby reducing display quality. In the black matrix BM of an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, a black matrix BM having a three-layer structure comprising a first layer BM1 and a third layer BM3 with low refractive index and a second layer BM2 with high refractive index disposed between the first layer BM1 and the third layer BM3 with low refractive index can improve display quality because the touch lines 140 are not visually recognized while reducing reflectivity.

[0159] For example, when a single-layer black matrix and color filter are formed on a glass substrate as in related technologies, the reflectivity can be 4.70%, while when a single-layer black matrix and color filter are formed on a panel, the reflectivity can be 7.70%. Furthermore, when a black matrix layer and a red matrix layer are laminated on a glass substrate to form a black matrix and color filter with a double-layer structure, the reflectivity can be 6.40%, while when a black matrix and color filter with this structure are formed on a panel, the reflectivity can be 8.2%. In this way, when the outermost layer is a red matrix layer, it can be seen that the reflectivity is higher than when a single-layer black matrix is ​​formed due to the reduced absorption rate of external light.

[0160] Furthermore, as in the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, when a black matrix layer, a white matrix layer, and a black matrix layer are stacked on a glass substrate to form a black matrix and a color filter with a three-layer structure, the reflectivity is as low as 3.75%. Moreover, when a black matrix and a color filter with this three-layer structure are formed on a display panel, the reflectivity is 5.8%, which is lower than the reflectivity of stacked single-layer black matrix or black matrix layer and red matrix layer in the related art.

[0161] Figure 7A It is a photograph of the subpixels of a conventional display device, including a single-layer black matrix, and Figure 7B These are subpixel photographs of a display device including a three-layer black matrix according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0162] Reference Figure 7A When a single-layer black matrix is ​​set, the touch electrodes below the black matrix can be visually recognized. In contrast, according to the embodiments of this disclosure, when a three-layer black matrix with a white matrix layer stacked between two black matrix layers is formed, the touch electrodes below are not visually recognized.

[0163] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the cross-sectional structure of some sub-pixels disposed in an optical region in a display device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Besides the black matrix disposed in the optical region, Figure 8 The display device shown is the same as the reference. Figures 1 to 7BThe described display devices have essentially the same configuration. Therefore, redundant descriptions using the same reference numerals will be omitted or briefly provided.

[0164] Optical electronic device 270 may be disposed in the optical region DA1 of the display device. Optical electronic device 270 may include a light receiving device such as a camera or sensor that receives light. For example, optical electronic device 270 may be a detection sensor such as a proximity sensor or an illuminance sensor. In the following description, the optical electronic device 270 will be described by way of example only as an example of an infrared sensor that senses infrared light, and this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0165] Optical electronics 270 can be disposed below the substrate SUB in the optical region DA1. When optical electronics 270 is an infrared sensor, as much infrared light as possible can be received by the infrared sensor disposed on the rear surface of the substrate SUB after transmission. Therefore, the optical region DA1 needs to have a higher infrared transmittance than the normal region NA. At the same time, it is necessary to minimize or reduce light incident from the outside to prevent or reduce the degradation of visibility due to reflected light.

[0166] Therefore, in the optical region DA1, it can be advantageous for the black matrix BM′ to transmit infrared wavelengths well and block visible wavelengths incident from the outside.

[0167] In the optical region DA1, the black matrix BM′ can have a three-layer structure with the first layer BM′1, the second layer BM′2 and the third layer BM′3 stacked in sequence.

[0168] In this case, the first layer BM′1 can be a long-wavelength visible light blocking layer, the second layer BM′2 can be a short-wavelength visible light blocking layer, and the third layer BM′3 can be an infrared transmission layer that transmits light with infrared wavelengths.

[0169] For example, the first layer BM′1 includes a dye with maximum absorption from 550 nm to 780 nm to block long wavelengths of visible light, but is not limited thereto. For example, the second layer BM′2 includes a dye with maximum absorption from 380 nm to 550 nm to block short wavelengths of visible light, but is not limited thereto. For example, the third layer BM′3 can transmit infrared light in the wavelength range of 940 nm to 1200 nm, but is not limited thereto.

[0170] The third layer BM′3 is located closest to the display surface to allow infrared light to pass through well in the optical region DA1 while blocking some visible light, thereby preventing or reducing visibility degradation due to reflected light.

[0171] The second layer BM′2, located below the third layer BM′3, absorbs short-wavelength visible light, while the first layer BM′1 absorbs long-wavelength visible light. Therefore, the first layer BM′1 and the second layer BM′2 can block visible light that is not blocked by the third layer BM′3, and transmit infrared light transmitted from the third layer BM′3.

[0172] The three-layer black matrix BM′ with the above configuration effectively transmits infrared light from the front surface of the optical region DA1, thereby increasing the amount of infrared light received by the optoelectronic device 270 disposed on the rear surface of the substrate SUB. Simultaneously, it blocks visible light incident from the outside to prevent or reduce visibility degradation due to reflected light, and the metal beneath the black matrix BM′ remains invisible.

[0173] The first layer BM′1 may be a layer comprising one or more dyes selected from blue and purple dyes. These dyes absorb the long wavelengths of visible light that are not absorbed in the third layer BM′3 to prevent or reduce visibility degradation due to external light reflection, and transmit infrared light to maintain a high amount of infrared light.

[0174] The second layer, BM′2, can be a layer comprising one or more dyes selected from yellow and orange dyes. These dyes absorb short-wavelength visible light that is not absorbed in the third layer, BM′3. Therefore, visibility degradation caused by reflected light from external light can be minimized or reduced. Furthermore, a high level of infrared light reception can be maintained by transmitting infrared light.

[0175] The third layer, BM′3, can be a layer comprising an organic black material. Organic black materials have a lower optical density than inorganic black materials. Therefore, while blocking visible light incident from the outside, infrared light is transmitted to ensure the amount of light required by the optoelectronic device 270.

[0176] For example, organic black materials can be one or more selected from aniline black, lactam black, and perylene black.

[0177] Figure 9 This is a graph showing the transmittance based on the configuration of the black matrix. (See reference...) Figure 9 Sample 1 is a monolayer black matrix formed from inorganic black material. In the case of Sample 1, the transmittance in the visible light wavelength range is very low, while the transmittance tends to increase in the wavelength range of 780 nm or longer, but it can be seen that the transmittance in the infrared wavelength range is as low as 15% or lower. Specifically, in Sample 1, which includes a monolayer of inorganic black material, the transmittance in the visible light wavelength range is confirmed to be 2.3%, and the transmittance in the infrared wavelength range is 15.9%.

[0178] exist Figure 9In the sample 2, a single-layer black matrix is ​​formed from organic black material. While the transmittance of sample 2 for visible light is higher than that of inorganic black materials, its transmittance for visible light shorter than 600 nm is low, at 5% or less, and its transmittance in the infrared wavelength range of 940 nm to 1200 nm is 90%, indicating a fairly high infrared transmittance. Specifically, the infrared transmittance of sample 2 is confirmed to be 89.5%, and the visible light transmittance is 18.7%.

[0179] exist Figure 9 Sample 3 is a black matrix with a bilayer structure comprising a second layer formed of organic black material and a first layer comprising a yellow or orange dye. In the case of Sample 3, it can be seen that the transmittance in the visible light wavelength range is lower than that of Sample 2. Specifically, it can be seen that the transmittance of visible light from 500 nm to 680 nm is close to 0, and the transmittance of visible light from 680 nm to 780 nm is also lower than that of Sample 2. Furthermore, it can be seen that the transmittance in the infrared wavelength range from 940 nm to 1200 nm is approximately 85%, which is slightly lower than that of Sample 2. Specifically, it is confirmed that the infrared transmittance of Sample 3 is 83.3%, and the visible light transmittance is 2.1%.

[0180] exist Figure 9 In the sample 4, there is a black matrix with a three-layer structure consisting of a first layer formed by purple or blue dye, a second layer formed by yellow or orange dye, and a third layer formed by organic black material.

[0181] In the case of sample 3 above, light transmission can be observed in some visible light wavelengths from 680 nm to 780 nm. In contrast, in the case of sample 4 with a three-layer structure, light transmittance is less than 1% in the entire visible light range from 380 nm to 780 nm. On the other hand, the transmittance is very high, at 90%, in the infrared wavelength range from 940 nm to 1200 nm. Specifically, it is confirmed that the infrared transmittance of sample 4 is 92.5%, and the visible light transmittance is 0.68%.

[0182] Thus, the three-layer black matrix, such as sample 4, transmits almost no visible light and has very high infrared transmittance, so that when formed in an optical region, it absorbs external light and suppresses the degradation of visibility due to reflected light, while transmitting infrared light at a high level, thereby providing the amount of infrared light required for the optoelectronic device (270).

[0183] Exemplary embodiments of this disclosure can also be described as follows:

[0184] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a display device includes: a substrate including a display area having a plurality of sub-pixels; a light-emitting element disposed on the substrate corresponding to each of the plurality of sub-pixels; an encapsulation layer disposed on the light-emitting element; a plurality of color filters disposed above the encapsulation layer corresponding to each of the plurality of sub-pixels; and a black matrix disposed above the encapsulation layer to space the plurality of color filters apart from each other, the black matrix having a three-layer structure of a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer stacked sequentially, the display area including an optical area through which light is transmitted and a normal area surrounding the optical area, and in the normal area, the refractive index of each of the first and third layers of the black matrix is ​​less than the refractive index of the second layer.

[0185] According to another feature of this disclosure, in the normal region, each of the first and third layers of the black matrix can be a black matrix layer, and the second layer can be a red matrix layer, a blue matrix layer, or a white matrix layer.

[0186] According to another feature of this disclosure, in the normal region, the optical density of the third layer of the black matrix can be higher than that of the first layer.

[0187] According to another feature of this disclosure, in the normal region, each of the first and third layers of the black matrix may include an inorganic black material, and the weight ratio of the inorganic black material included in the third layer may be higher than the weight ratio of the inorganic black material included in the first layer.

[0188] According to another feature of this disclosure, in the normal region, the second layer of the black matrix may include white nanoparticles, and the white nanoparticles may include titanium dioxide (TiO2).

[0189] According to another feature of this disclosure, in the normal region, the refractive index of the first layer of the black matrix can be 1.6 to 1.7, the refractive index of the second layer can be 2.0 to 2.5, and the refractive index of the third layer can be 1.5 to 1.6.

[0190] According to another feature of this disclosure, in the normal region, the widths of the first layer, the second layer, and the third layer of the black matrix can be the same as each other.

[0191] According to another feature of this disclosure, in the normal region, the width of the first layer of the black matrix can be greater than the width of the second layer and the width of the third layer.

[0192] According to another feature of this disclosure, the width of the second layer and the width of the third layer can be the same as each other.

[0193] According to another feature of this disclosure, the width of the second layer can be greater than the width of the third layer.

[0194] According to another feature of this disclosure, the black matrix can have a stepped shape.

[0195] According to another feature of this disclosure, the side surfaces of each of the first, second, and third layers may have an inclined structure with the same degree of inclination, and the black matrix may have a trapezoidal shape.

[0196] According to another feature of this disclosure, the optical region may include an optical electronic device located beneath the substrate that receives and operates light transmitted through the substrate.

[0197] According to another feature of this disclosure, in the optical region, the first layer of the black matrix can be a long-wavelength visible light blocking layer, the second layer can be a short-wavelength visible light blocking layer, and the third layer can be a layer that transmits light with infrared wavelengths.

[0198] According to another feature of this disclosure, in the optical region, the first layer may include one or more selected from blue dyes and purple dyes, the second layer may include one or more selected from yellow dyes and orange dyes, and the third layer may include an organic black material.

[0199] According to another feature of this disclosure, the display device may further include a touch sensing layer disposed between the encapsulation layer and the black matrix or multiple color filters, and includes multiple touch electrodes.

[0200] According to another feature of this disclosure, multiple touch electrodes can be configured to overlap with the black matrix.

[0201] According to another feature of this disclosure, in the normal region, the third layer may include an inorganic black material, and the first layer includes an organic black material.

[0202] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a display device is provided, comprising: a substrate including a display area having a plurality of sub-pixels; a light-emitting element disposed on the substrate corresponding to each of the plurality of sub-pixels; an encapsulation layer disposed on the light-emitting element; a plurality of color filters disposed above the encapsulation layer corresponding to each of the plurality of sub-pixels; and a black matrix disposed above the encapsulation layer to space the plurality of color filters apart from each other, the black matrix having a three-layer structure of a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer stacked sequentially, wherein the display area includes an optical area through which light is transmitted and a normal area adjacent to the optical area, wherein in the optical area, the first layer includes at least one selected from blue dye and purple dye, the second layer includes at least one selected from yellow dye and orange dye, and the third layer includes an organic black material.

[0203] Although exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present disclosure is not limited thereto and may be implemented in many different forms without departing from the technical concept of the present disclosure. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the technical concept of the present disclosure. The scope of the technical concept of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Therefore, it should be understood that the above exemplary embodiments are illustrative in all respects and not limiting of the present disclosure. All technical concepts within the equivalent scope of the present disclosure should be construed as falling within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0204] Cross-reference to related applications

[0205] This application claims the benefit and priority of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0202379, filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on December 31, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes as if fully set forth herein.

Claims

1. A display device, the display device comprising: A substrate, the substrate including a display area having a plurality of sub-pixels; A light-emitting element disposed on the substrate to correspond to each of the plurality of sub-pixels; An encapsulation layer is disposed on the light-emitting element; Multiple color filters are disposed above the encapsulation layer to correspond to each of the multiple sub-pixels; as well as A black matrix, disposed above the encapsulation layer to separate the plurality of color filters from each other, the black matrix having a three-layer structure with a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer stacked sequentially. The display area includes an optical area and a normal area adjacent to the optical area, through which light is transmitted. In the normal region, the refractive index of each of the first and third layers of the black matrix is ​​less than that of the second layer.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein In the normal region, each of the first and third layers of the black matrix is ​​a black matrix layer, and The second layer is a red matrix layer, a blue matrix layer, or a white matrix layer.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein In the normal region, the optical density of the third layer of the black matrix is ​​higher than that of the first layer.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein In the normal region, each of the first and third layers of the black matrix comprises an inorganic black material, and The inorganic black material included in the third layer has a higher weight ratio than the inorganic black material included in the first layer.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein In the normal region, the second layer of the black matrix comprises white nanoparticles, and The white nanoparticles include titanium dioxide (TiO2).

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, In the normal region, the refractive index of the first layer of the black matrix is ​​1.6 to 1.7, the refractive index of the second layer is 2.0 to 2.5, and the refractive index of the third layer is 1.5 to 1.

6.

7. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, In the normal region, the widths of the first layer, the second layer, and the third layer of the black matrix are the same.

8. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, In the normal region, the width of the first layer of the black matrix is ​​greater than the width of the second layer and the width of the third layer.

9. The display device according to claim 8, wherein, The width of the second layer and the width of the third layer are the same.

10. The display device according to claim 8, wherein, The width of the second layer is greater than the width of the third layer.

11. The display device according to claim 10, wherein, The black matrix has a stepped shape.

12. The display device according to claim 10, wherein, The side surfaces of each of the first, second, and third layers are formed with an inclined structure having the same angle of inclination, and The black matrix has a trapezoidal shape.

13. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The optical region includes optical electronics that operate by receiving light transmitted through the substrate beneath the substrate.

14. The display device according to claim 13, wherein, In the optical region, the first layer of the black matrix is ​​a long-wavelength visible light blocking layer, the second layer is a short-wavelength visible light blocking layer, and the third layer is a layer that transmits light with infrared wavelengths.

15. The display device according to claim 14, wherein, In the optical region, the first layer comprises at least one selected from blue and purple dyes. The second layer comprises at least one selected from yellow and orange dyes, and The third layer comprises an organic black material.

16. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: A touch sensing layer is disposed between the encapsulation layer and the black matrix or the plurality of color filters, and includes a plurality of touch electrodes.

17. The display device according to claim 16, wherein, The plurality of touch electrodes are configured to overlap with the black matrix.

18. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, In the normal region, the third layer comprises an inorganic black material, and the first layer comprises an organic black material.

19. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, In the normal region, the refractive index of each of the first and third layers of the black matrix is ​​less than the refractive index of the second layer of the black matrix.

20. A display device, the display device comprising: A substrate, the substrate including a display area having a plurality of sub-pixels; A light-emitting element disposed on the substrate to correspond to each of the plurality of sub-pixels; An encapsulation layer is disposed on the light-emitting element; Multiple color filters are disposed above the encapsulation layer to correspond to each of the multiple sub-pixels; as well as A black matrix, disposed above the encapsulation layer to separate the plurality of color filters from each other, the black matrix having a three-layer structure with a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer stacked sequentially. The display area includes an optical area and a normal area adjacent to the optical area, through which light is transmitted. In the optical region, the first layer comprises at least one selected from blue and purple dyes, the second layer comprises at least one selected from yellow and orange dyes, and the third layer comprises an organic black material.

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