Display device

Abstract

A display device includes a substrate including a display area and a non-display area surrounding the display area in a plan view of the display device, the non-display area including a bendable area and a lower corner area connected to the bendable area, wherein the lower corner area has a lower corner end, a plurality of structures disposed on the substrate and in the lower corner area and spaced apart from each other in the plan view, and an anode electrode portion disposed on the substrate and in the display area and the non-display area, wherein the anode electrode portion has at least one disconnected area disposed between adjacent structures of the plurality of structures in the plan view.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a display device. Background Technology

[0002] Display devices are used in a variety of electronic devices such as televisions, smartphones, laptops, and tablets. Research is underway to develop thin, lightweight, and low-power display devices.

[0003] Examples of display devices include LCD (liquid crystal display) devices, FED (field emission display) devices, and OLED (organic light-emitting diode) devices.

[0004] The bezel area of ​​a display device may include the area surrounding the outer edge of the display area of ​​the display panel. The display panel may also include a non-display area surrounding the outer edge of the display area, and the bezel area may be defined by the non-display area. The bezel area protects the edges of the display panel and internal electronic components from external impacts, pressure, or damage. The bezel area is visually identifiable by the user and can therefore be a factor that reduces the immersive experience of images emitted from the display area.

[0005] Therefore, there has been a growing demand for display devices that achieve narrow bezels (where the bezel area is reduced and the screen of the display device is not displayed in the bezel area) or zero bezels (which essentially have the effect of a bezel-less area).

[0006] When a flexible substrate made of flexible material is applied to a display device, the display panel may include a bendable region that is bent to conceal the pad area beneath the display area. The bendable region may extend from the lower connecting area in a plan view of the display area of ​​the display panel.

[0007] In this configuration, the bezel area may include the top, left, and right sides of the display panel in its plan view, as well as the bottom corner side of the display panel. The flexible area extends from the connecting area below the display area of ​​the display panel. Within the bezel area, a multi-layered protective layer may be provided to protect the edges of the display panel and the internal circuitry from external impacts, pressure, or damage. The protective layer may comprise inorganic or organic insulating materials.

[0008] However, when the organic insulating material is subjected to external impact or damage to seams during the manufacturing process, moisture can penetrate through it. This penetrated moisture can flow into the display area via the moisture penetration path, thereby increasing the defect rate of the display device. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Therefore, through various experiments, the inventors of this disclosure have invented a display device that can prevent external moisture from flowing from the non-display area to the display area.

[0010] The technical objective of this disclosure is to provide a display device that can prevent the formation of a moisture penetration path from a non-display area to the display area.

[0011] The technical objective of this disclosure is to provide a display device that can increase the time for water to penetrate into the display area by increasing the length of the water penetration path from the non-display area to the display area.

[0012] The purposes of this disclosure are not limited to those described above. Other purposes and advantages not mentioned in this disclosure may be understood based on the following description and may be more clearly understood based on embodiments according to this disclosure. Furthermore, it will be readily understood that the purposes and advantages of this disclosure can be achieved using the means or combinations thereof shown in the claims.

[0013] A display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a substrate including a display area and a non-display area surrounding the display area in a plan view of the display device, the non-display area including: a flexible region; a lower corner region connected to the flexible region, wherein the lower corner region has a lower corner end; a plurality of structures disposed on the substrate and in the lower corner region and spaced apart from each other in the plan view; and an anode electrode portion disposed on the substrate and in the display area and the non-display area, wherein the anode electrode portion has at least one break region between adjacent structures disposed in the plurality of structures in the plan view.

[0014] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the display device may include a plurality of structures disposed in a lower corner region adjacent to a flexible region of a non-display area of ​​the substrate, and spaced apart from each other in a plan view. In this respect, the anode electrode portion disposed below the plurality of structures can be prevented from acting as a path for external moisture penetration.

[0015] The anode electrode portion has a break area in the outer region of the lower corner region adjacent to the flexible region of the substrate, thereby preventing external moisture from penetrating through the anode electrode portion.

[0016] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the disconnected area may be disposed between adjacent structures in a plurality of structures in the lower corner area of ​​the display panel in order to increase the length of the external moisture penetration path, thereby delaying the time for external moisture to penetrate into the display area.

[0017] Therefore, it can prevent external moisture from penetrating into the display area through the anode electrode portion, or it can delay the time it takes for moisture to penetrate into the display area. This allows for a stable supply of signals or voltages for operating the display area, thereby improving product reliability.

[0018] According to embodiments of this disclosure, by reducing the defect rate of the display device, the production energy required for additional production of the display device can be reduced, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

[0019] The effects of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art based on the following description.

[0020] In addition to the effects described above, the specific effects of this disclosure are also described in conjunction with the specific details for implementing this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a plan view of a display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line II′.

[0023] Figure 3 and Figure 4 This is a diagram according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 5 and Figure 6 This is a diagram according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 7 and Figure 8 This is a diagram according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0026] The advantages and features of this disclosure, as well as methods for achieving these advantages and features, will become apparent from the embodiments described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but can be implemented in various different forms. Therefore, these embodiments are merely provided to complete this disclosure and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the subject of this disclosure of its scope.

[0027] For simplicity and clarity, the elements in the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. The same reference numerals in different drawings denote the same or similar elements and therefore perform similar functions. Furthermore, for the sake of simplicity, descriptions and details of well-known steps and elements have been omitted. In addition, numerous specific details are set forth in the following detailed description of this disclosure to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosure. However, it should be understood that this disclosure can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, processes, components, and circuits have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of this disclosure. Examples of various embodiments are further shown and described below. It should be understood that the description herein is not intended to limit the claims to the specific embodiments described. Rather, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents that may be included within the spirit and scope of this disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

[0028] The shapes, dimensions, ratios, angles, quantities, etc. disclosed in the accompanying drawings are illustrative in order to illustrate the embodiments of this disclosure, and this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0029] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. As used herein, the singular constructions “a” and “an” are intended to include the plural constructions as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprising” and “including” as used in this disclosure specify the presence of the stated features, integers, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, operations, elements, components, and / or portions thereof. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. When preceding a series of elements, expressions such as “at least one” may modify the entire series of elements and may not modify individual elements of the series. In the interpretation of numerical values, errors or tolerances may occur even when not explicitly described.

[0030] Furthermore, it should be understood that when a first element or layer is referred to as existing "on" a second element or layer, the first element may be directly disposed on the second element or may be indirectly disposed on the second element, wherein a third element or layer is disposed between the first element or layer and the second element or layer. It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "connected to" or "attached to" another element or layer, it may be directly connected to or attached to the other element or layer, or one or more intermediate elements or layers may exist therebetween. Furthermore, it should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "between" two elements or layers, it may be the only element or layer between the two elements or layers, or one or more intermediate elements or layers may exist.

[0031] Furthermore, as used herein, when a layer, membrane, region, plate, etc., is disposed "on" or "on top" of another layer, membrane, region, plate, etc., the former can directly contact the latter, or another layer, membrane, region, plate, etc., can be disposed between the former and the latter. As used herein, when a layer, membrane, region, plate, etc., is directly disposed "on" or "on top" of another layer, membrane, region, plate, etc., the former directly contacts the latter, and no other layer, membrane, region, plate, etc., is disposed between the former and the latter. Furthermore, as used herein, when a layer, membrane, region, plate, etc., is disposed "below" or "below" another layer, membrane, region, plate, etc., the former can directly contact the latter, or another layer, membrane, region, plate, etc., can be disposed between the former and the latter. As used herein, when a layer, membrane, region, plate, etc., is directly disposed "below" or "below" another layer, membrane, region, plate, etc., the former directly contacts the latter, and no other layer, membrane, region, plate, etc., is disposed between the former and the latter.

[0032] In descriptions of temporal relationships, such as temporal precedents between two events, such as “after,” “following,” “before,” etc., unless it is not specified that “directly after,” “directly following,” or “directly before,” another event may occur in between.

[0033] When an embodiment can be implemented differently, the functions or operations specified in a particular module may occur in a different order than those specified in the flowchart. For example, two consecutive modules may actually be executed substantially simultaneously, or the two modules may be executed in reverse order depending on the functions or operations involved.

[0034] It should be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or time periods, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or time periods should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or time period from another element, component, region, layer, or time period. Therefore, without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, the first element, component, region, layer, or time period described below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or time period.

[0035] When an embodiment can be implemented differently, the functions or operations specified in a specific module can be executed in a different order than that specified in the flowchart. For example, two consecutive modules can actually be executed substantially simultaneously, or these modules can be executed in reverse order according to their related functions or operations.

[0036] Features of the various embodiments of this disclosure can be combined partially or completely with each other, and can be technically related to or operable on each other. These embodiments can be implemented independently of each other, or can be implemented together in an associated relationship.

[0037] When interpreting numerical values, unless there is a separate, explicit description, the value is interpreted to include a range of error.

[0038] 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 this disclosure pertains. It should also be understood that terms such as those defined in common dictionaries shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0039] As used herein, terms such as “implementation,” “example,” “aspect,” etc., should not be construed as making any aspect or design described superior or better than other aspects or designs.

[0040] Furthermore, the term "or" means "inclusive or" rather than "exclusive or". That is, unless otherwise stated or clear from the context, the expression "x uses a or b" indicates one of the natural inclusive permutations.

[0041] The terms used in the following description are chosen to be general and common in the relevant art. However, depending on the development and / or changes in technology, conventions, preferences of those skilled in the art, etc., other terms may exist besides these. Therefore, the terms used in the following description should not be construed as limiting the technical concept, but should be understood as examples of terms used to illustrate embodiments.

[0042] Furthermore, in specific cases, the terminology may be chosen arbitrarily by the applicant, and in such cases, its detailed meaning will be described in the corresponding description phase. Therefore, the terminology used in the following description should be understood not only based on the name of the term, but also on its meaning and the content of the entire detailed description.

[0043] In the description of signal flow, for example, when a signal is passed from node A to node B, this may include cases where the signal is passed from node A to node B via another node, unless the phrases "immediately passed" or "directly passed" are used.

[0044] In this disclosure, unless otherwise stated, “A and / or B” means A, B or A and B, and unless otherwise stated, “C to D” means C (inclusive of C) to D (inclusive of D).

[0045] "At least one" should be understood to include any combination of one or more of the listed components. For example, "at least one of the first, second, and third components" means not only the first, second, or third component, but also all combinations of two or more of the first, second, and third components.

[0046] In the following description, embodiments of the present disclosure will be illustrated using the accompanying drawings. For ease of explanation, the dimensions of the various components shown in the drawings differ from their actual dimensions; therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to the dimensions shown in the drawings.

[0047] As used herein, the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction, or the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction, should not be construed as having only a geometric relationship where the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are perpendicular to each other or the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction are perpendicular to each other, but can be construed as having a geometric relationship where the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction intersect each other at an angle other than 90 degrees (°) within the range where the configuration of this disclosure is functionally operable, or the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction intersect each other at an angle other than 90 degrees (°) within the range where the configuration of this disclosure is functionally operable.

[0048] A display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0049] Figure 1 This is a plan view of a display panel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Reference Figure 1 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the display device 1 may include a display panel 200, a printed circuit board 104, a control circuit chip 105, etc.

[0051] The display panel 200 may include a display area AA and a non-display area NAA. The display area AA is the area for displaying images, and multiple pixels P, data lines DL, and gate lines GL may be provided in the display area.

[0052] The display area AA may include multiple pixels P and a hole H. The hole H may be an area in which electronic components for adding various functions to the display device 1 are disposed. For example, the electronic components may include a camera module for capturing pictures or images, or may include various sensor devices for detecting external objects. The sensor devices may include at least one of proximity sensors, gesture sensors, color sensors, biometric sensors, and infrared sensors. However, the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited thereto.

[0053] A pixel P may include multiple subpixels. An image can be displayed in a display area AA using multiple subpixels. The multiple subpixels can be arranged in an array in the display area AA. In one example, the multiple subpixels can be arranged in a matrix and can be spaced apart from each other in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction in the display area AA. The first direction can be a horizontal direction, an X-axis direction, or a row direction, and the second direction can be a vertical direction, a Y-axis direction, or a column direction. However, this disclosure is not limited to this, and the arrangement shape, arrangement order, and arrangement direction of the subpixels can be changed.

[0054] In this disclosure, a pixel P is configured to include a first sub-pixel SP1, a second sub-pixel SP2, and a third sub-pixel SP3. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, a pixel P may also include additional sub-pixels.

[0055] Multiple subpixels can be implemented to emit light of the same color, such as white light. Alternatively, multiple subpixels can be implemented to emit light of different colors, such as red, green, and blue. For example, the first subpixel SP1 can emit red light, the second subpixel SP2 can emit green light, and the third subpixel SP3 can emit blue light.

[0056] The non-display area NAA can be an area where no image is displayed. The non-display area NAA can be located in the peripheral area (or edge area) of the display panel 200. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the area in the display area AA other than the light-emitting area that emits light outward can be referred to as the non-display area NAA. The bezel area of ​​the display device can be defined by the non-display area NAA. The bezel area can surround the outside of the display area AA.

[0057] The non-display area NAA may include four side edges set as the outermost edges of the display panel 200. These four side edges may include a top edge 200T_E, a left edge 200L_E, a right edge 200R_E, and a bottom edge 200B_E. Furthermore, a bottom corner edge 200BC_E is disposed between each of the left edge 200L_E and the right edge 200R_E and the bottom edge 200B_E.

[0058] Lines used to provide or receive electrical signals to or from the display area AA can be provided in the non-display area NAA. For example, gate drivers used to provide gate signals to multiple sub-pixels can be provided in the non-display area NAA. The gate drivers can be provided at each of the right and left edges of the non-display area NAA as gates in-panel (GIP). The gate drivers can transmit gate signals via gate lines GL.

[0059] The non-display area (NAA) may include a pad area (PDA), in which a driver circuit chip 103 and multiple pads (PDs) are disposed. The driver circuit chip 103 can transmit data signals to multiple sub-pixels through multiple data lines (DL) in the display area (NAA). For example, the driver circuit chip 103 may be a data driver circuit chip. However, the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0060] The gate line GL may extend along the first direction X of the display panel 200, and the data line DL may intersect with the gate line GL and extend along the second direction Y of the display panel 200.

[0061] The non-display area NAA may include a link area LKA. The link area LKA may include data link lines for electrically connecting multiple data lines DL of the display area AA to the driver circuit chip 103, or touch link lines for electrically connecting touch lines to the driver circuit chip 103. For example, the link area LKA may be located between the display area AA and the pad area PDA. The lower corner 200BC_E refers to each of the outermost right and left portions of the link area LKA.

[0062] The non-display area NAA may include a flexible area BDA. The flexible area BDA can be bent to allow the rear surface of the printed circuit board 104, on which a control circuit chip 105 is disposed, to face the display area AA of the display panel 200. The control circuit chip 105 controls the drive circuit chip 103 and the gate driver. The flexible area BDA may be disposed between the link area LKA and the pad area PDA. The flexible area BDA and the pad area PDA may be disposed between the link area LKA and the lower end 200B_E of the display panel 200.

[0063] When the flexible area BA of the display panel 200 is bent, the pad area PDA of the non-display area NAA can be located below the display area AA. Therefore, the lower area of ​​the non-display area NAA of the display device 1 that is visible to a viewer in front of the display device 1 can be reduced. This lower area may be defined by the link area LKA, but is not limited thereto.

[0064] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken from line I-I'. Figure 2 A subpixel of a display device is schematically shown. In this disclosure, for ease of description, an example of the configuration of a subpixel is described. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0065] Reference Figure 2 The display panel 200 may include a pixel driving circuit, which includes a plurality of transistors, a light-emitting element 260 and a touch sensor 287 disposed on a substrate 201.

[0066] A sub-pixel may include a light-emitting element 260 and a pixel driving circuit that applies a driving current to the light-emitting element 260. The pixel driving circuit is disposed on a substrate 201, and the light-emitting element 260 is disposed on the pixel driving circuit. The pixel driving circuit may include a plurality of transistors and a storage capacitor 230. In this example, the plurality of transistors may include a first transistor 220 and a second transistor 240.

[0067] The substrate 201 may be a flexible plastic substrate. When the substrate 201 is formed as a plastic film, the substrate 201 may include multiple layers made of an insulating material. A first buffer layer 205 may be disposed on the substrate 201. The first buffer layer 205 may cover the surface of the substrate 201. The first buffer layer 205 may reduce or prevent moisture, oxygen, or impurities from penetrating through the substrate 201. The first buffer layer 205 may be implemented as a single layer or multiple layers made of an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide (SiOx) or silicon nitride (SiNx). The first buffer layer 205 may completely cover the surface of the substrate 201 in the display area AA. For example, the first buffer layer 205 may extend to the non-display area NAA surrounding the display area AA.

[0068] A light-shielding layer 209 may be disposed on the first buffer layer 205. The light-shielding layer 209 prevents external light from incident on the first transistor 220. For this purpose, the light-shielding layer 209 may comprise an opaque metallic material. A second buffer layer 212 may be disposed on the light-shielding layer 209. The second buffer layer 212 protects the first transistor 220 from moisture, oxygen, or impurities. The second buffer layer 212 may be implemented as a single layer or multiple layers made of an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide (SiOx) or silicon nitride (SiNx). However, embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto. The second buffer layer 212 may completely cover the surface of the substrate 201 in the display area AA. For example, the second buffer layer 212 may extend to the non-display area NAA surrounding the display area AA.

[0069] The first transistor 220 may be disposed on the second buffer layer 212. The first transistor 220 may include a first semiconductor layer 221, a first gate insulating layer 222, a first gate electrode 223, a first source electrode 224, and a first drain electrode 225. In the example, the first transistor 220 may be a switching transistor.

[0070] The first semiconductor layer 221 may include a channel region and a source / drain region. The region of the first semiconductor layer 221 that overlaps with the first gate electrode 223 in the vertical direction may be the channel region. The source / drain regions may be respectively disposed on opposite sides of the channel region. The first semiconductor layer 221 may include one or a combination of a polycrystalline silicon semiconductor layer and a low-temperature polycrystalline silicon semiconductor layer. In another example, the first semiconductor layer 221 may include an oxide semiconductor layer. For example, the first semiconductor layer 221 may include at least one oxide semiconductor material such as IGZO (indium gallium zinc oxide) or IZO (indium zinc oxide).

[0071] When the first semiconductor layer 221 includes an oxide semiconductor layer, the first transistor 220 can be implemented as an oxide thin-film transistor. The first semiconductor layer 221 can be configured to overlap with the light-shielding layer 209 in the vertical direction. The light-shielding layer 209 prevents external light from incident on the first semiconductor layer 221.

[0072] A first gate insulating layer 222 may be disposed between the first semiconductor layer 221 and the first gate electrode 223. The first gate insulating layer 222 may extend outward while covering the first semiconductor layer 221. The first gate insulating layer 222 may be implemented as a single layer or a stack of multiple layers made of an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide (SiOx) or silicon nitride (SiNx). The first gate insulating layer 222 may completely cover the surface of the substrate 201 in the display area AA. For example, the first gate insulating layer 222 may extend to the non-display area NAA surrounding the display area AA. In the non-display area NAA, the second buffer layer 212 and the first gate insulating layer 222 may be arranged vertically so that they contact each other to form a first insulating structure 213.

[0073] A first gate electrode 223 may be disposed on a first gate insulating layer 222. A first interlayer insulating layer 214 may be disposed on the first gate electrode 223. The first interlayer insulating layer 214 may be implemented as a single layer or a stack of multiple layers made of an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide (SiOx) or silicon nitride (SiNx). In one example, the first interlayer insulating layer 214 may extend to a non-display area NAA surrounding the display area AA.

[0074] The first source electrode 224 and the first drain electrode 225 can be electrically connected to the first semiconductor layer 221.

[0075] The storage capacitor 230 may include a first storage electrode 231 and a second storage electrode 232. For example, the first storage electrode 231 and the first gate electrode 223 may be formed on the same layer. For example, the first storage electrode 231 may be disposed on the first gate insulating layer 222 and located at a position horizontally spaced from the first gate electrode 223. The first storage electrode 231 may be made of the same material as the first gate electrode 223. The second storage electrode 232 may be disposed on the first interlayer insulating layer 214 so as to overlap the first storage electrode 231 in the vertical direction.

[0076] Each of the first storage electrode 231 and the second storage electrode 232 may be implemented as a stack of single or multiple layers made of one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu) and their alloys. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0077] A second interlayer insulating layer 216 may be disposed on the second storage electrode 232. The second interlayer insulating layer 216 may be implemented as a single layer or a stack of multiple layers made of an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide (SiOx) or silicon nitride (SiNx). In one example, the second interlayer insulating layer 216 may extend to the non-display area NAA surrounding the display area AA.

[0078] The second transistor 240 may be disposed on the second interlayer insulating layer 216 to be spaced apart from the first transistor 220. The second transistor 240 may be electrically connected to the first transistor 220. For example, the second transistor 240 may include a second semiconductor layer 241, a second gate insulating layer 242, a second gate electrode 243, a second source electrode 245, and a second drain electrode 246. In one example, the second transistor 240 may be a driving transistor electrically connected to the light-emitting element 260.

[0079] The second semiconductor layer 241 may include a channel region and a source / drain region. The region of the second semiconductor layer 241 that overlaps with the second gate electrode 243 in the vertical direction may be the channel region. The source / drain regions may be respectively disposed on opposite sides of the channel region. The second semiconductor layer 241 may include an oxide semiconductor layer. For example, the second semiconductor layer 241 may include at least one oxide semiconductor material such as indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO). In one example, the second semiconductor layer 241 may be configured to overlap with the storage capacitor 230 in the vertical direction. Therefore, the storage capacitor 230 can prevent external light from outside the substrate 201 from incident on the second semiconductor layer 241. This prevents the characteristics of the second transistor 240 from being altered by external light.

[0080] A second gate insulating layer 242 may be disposed between the second semiconductor layer 241 and the second gate electrode 243. The second gate insulating layer 242 may extend outward while covering the second semiconductor layer 241. For example, the second gate insulating layer 242 may extend to the non-display area NAA surrounding the display area AA. The second gate insulating layer 242 may be implemented as a single layer or a stack of multiple layers made of an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide (SiOx) or silicon nitride (SiNx).

[0081] Each of the first gate electrode 223 and the second gate electrode 243 may be implemented as a stack of single or multiple layers made of one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu) and their alloys. However, examples of materials are not limited thereto.

[0082] A third interlayer insulating layer 218 may be disposed on the second gate electrode 243. The third interlayer insulating layer 218 may comprise an insulating material. For example, the third interlayer insulating layer 218 may comprise an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide (Six), silicon nitride (SiNx), or silicon oxynitride (SiON), and may be implemented as a single layer or a stack of multiple layers. In one example, the third interlayer insulating layer 218 may extend to a non-display area NAA surrounding the display area AA. In the non-display area NAA, the second interlayer insulating layer 216, the second gate insulating layer 242, and the third interlayer insulating layer 218 may be arranged vertically to contact each other and form a second insulating structure 219.

[0083] The first source electrode 224, the first drain electrode 225, the second source electrode 245, and the second drain electrode 246 may be disposed on the third interlayer insulating layer 218.

[0084] The first source electrode 224 and the first drain electrode 225 can extend through the third interlayer insulating layer 218, the second gate insulating layer 242, the second interlayer insulating layer 216, the first interlayer insulating layer 214 and the first gate insulating layer 222, so as to directly contact and electrically connect with the source / drain regions of the first semiconductor layer 221, respectively.

[0085] The second source electrode 245 and the second drain electrode 246 may extend through the third interlayer insulating layer 218 and the second gate insulating layer 242 to directly contact and electrically connect with the source / drain regions of the second semiconductor layer 241, respectively. The second drain electrode 246 of the second transistor 240 may be electrically connected to the storage capacitor 230. For example, a portion of the second drain electrode 246 may extend through the third interlayer insulating layer 218, the second gate insulating layer 242, the second interlayer insulating layer 216, and the first interlayer insulating layer 214 to directly contact and electrically connect with the first storage electrode 231 of the storage capacitor 230.

[0086] Each of the first source electrode 224, the first drain electrode 225, the second source electrode 245, and the second drain electrode 246 may be implemented as a stack of single or multiple layers made of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu) and their alloys. However, embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto. In one example, each of the first source electrode 224, the first drain electrode 225, the second source electrode 245, and the second drain electrode 246 may have a stacked structure formed of titanium / aluminum / titanium layers (Ti / Al / Ti).

[0087] Passivation layer 247 may be disposed on the first source electrode 224, the first drain electrode 225, the second source electrode 245, and the second drain electrode 246. Passivation layer 247 may comprise an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride, and may be implemented as a single layer or a stack of multiple layers. Passivation layer 247 may protect the pixel driving circuitry disposed beneath it.

[0088] A planarization layer 250 may be disposed on the passivation layer 247. The planarization layer 250 can planarize steps caused by the pixel driving circuitry beneath it. The planarization layer 250 may include a multilayer structure formed by a first planarization layer 251 and a second planarization layer 252. For example, the planarization layer 250 may contain an organic insulating material such as polyimide or acrylic resin. In one example, each of the first planarization layer 251 and the second planarization layer 252 may extend to a non-display area NAA surrounding the display area AA.

[0089] Pixel contact electrode 255 may be disposed on the first planarization layer 251. Pixel contact electrode 255 may extend through the first planarization layer 251 and passivation layer 247 to directly contact the second drain electrode 246 of the second transistor 240.

[0090] The light-emitting element 260 may be formed on the planarization layer 250. For example, the light-emitting element 260 may be disposed on the second planarization layer 252. The light-emitting element 260 may include an anode electrode 261, a light-emitting layer 263, a cathode electrode 265, and a capping layer 267.

[0091] The light-emitting element 260 can be electrically connected to the pixel driving circuit via the anode electrode 261. For example, the anode electrode 261 can extend through the second planarization layer 252 to directly contact the pixel contact electrode 255. Therefore, the anode electrode 261 can be electrically connected to the second transistor 240 via the pixel contact electrode 255. However, Figure 2This disclosure is intended to illustrate an example of a scheme for supplying current to the anode electrode 261, and is not limited to the physical contact between the second transistor 240, which is a driving transistor, and the anode electrode 261. In one example, the switching transistor ST electrically connected to the anode electrode 261 may be a light-emitting transistor. For example, the light-emitting transistor may control the on and off states of the light-emitting element 260. The pixel contact electrode 255 may include a conductive material. For example, the pixel contact electrode 255 may include a metallic material such as aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), titanium (Ti), molybdenum (Mo), and tungsten (W). In an example, the pixel contact electrode 255 may have a multilayer structure formed of a titanium layer / aluminum layer / titanium layer (Ti / Al / Ti).

[0092] The anode electrode 261 may include a transparent conductive layer. For example, the anode electrode 261 may include ITO (indium tin oxide) or IZO (indium zinc oxide). Alternatively, the anode electrode 261 may have a single-layer or multi-layer structure comprising a reflective metal film made of one of silver (Ag), aluminum (Al), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), and chromium (Cr) and their alloys. The anode electrode 261 may also be referred to as a pixel electrode.

[0093] A dam 262 may be disposed on the anode electrode 261. The dam 262 may be configured to cover the edge of the anode electrode 261. A portion of the dam 262 may extend onto the second planarization layer 252. A portion of the upper surface of the anode electrode 261 that is not covered by the dam 262 and is thus exposed may be a light-emitting region (EA). The dam 262 may be made of an organic insulating material. The dam 262 may include, for example, photosensitive polyimide, photoacryl, or benzocyclobutene (BCB).

[0094] Spacer 264 may be further provided on the dam 262. Spacer 264 may be configured to prevent damage to the dam 262 and the anode electrode 261 during the process. Spacer 264 may be made of the same material as the dam 262. The dam 262 and spacer 264 may be stacked vertically to form an organic insulating structure 266.

[0095] The light-emitting layer 263 may be disposed on the anode electrode 261. The light-emitting layer 263 may include a hole transport layer (HTL), an organic light-emitting layer (EML), an electron transport layer (ETL), a hole blocking layer (HBL), a hole injection layer (HIL), an electron blocking layer (EBL), and an electron injection layer (EIL). The light-emitting layer 263 may have a multi-stack structure in which two or more organic light-emitting layers (EML) are stacked.

[0096] A cathode electrode 265 may be disposed on the light-emitting layer 263. The cathode electrode 265 may be commonly connected to the light-emitting layer 263 formed in all pixels. Therefore, the cathode electrode 265 may also be referred to as a common electrode. The cathode electrode 265 may comprise a semi-transparent, semi-reflective conductive material. For example, the cathode electrode may be made of a metallic material such as magnesium (Mg), silver (Ag), or an alloy of silver (Ag) and magnesium (Mg) (Ag-Mg). In one example, the cathode electrode 265 may comprise a transparent conductive layer, such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO).

[0097] A capping layer 267 may be disposed on the cathode electrode 265. The capping layer 267 can prevent light loss generated from the light-emitting layer 263, thereby improving light extraction efficiency.

[0098] A package stack 270 may be disposed on the light-emitting element 260. The package stack 270 protects the light-emitting element 260 from external oxygen or moisture. The package stack 270 may extend to the non-display area NAA located outside the display area AA, while covering the display area AA.

[0099] The package stack 270 may include a multi-layer structure, wherein a first package layer 271, a second package layer 273, and a third package layer 275 are stacked. The second package layer 273 may be disposed between the first package layer 271 and the third package layer 275.

[0100] A first encapsulation layer 271 may be disposed on the cover layer 267. A second encapsulation layer 273 may be disposed on the first encapsulation layer 271. The second encapsulation layer 273 may cover the first encapsulation layer 271 and may have sufficient thickness to have a flat upper surface. The second encapsulation layer 273 may prevent foreign matter from penetrating into the light-emitting element 260. A third encapsulation layer 275 may be disposed on the second encapsulation layer 273. Each of the first encapsulation layer 271 and the third encapsulation layer 275 may extend to the non-display area NAA surrounding the display area AA.

[0101] Each of the first encapsulation layer 271 and the third encapsulation layer 275 may include an inorganic insulating material, and the second encapsulation layer 273 may include an organic insulating material. For example, each of the first encapsulation layer 271 and the third encapsulation layer 275 may include at least one of silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxide (SiOx), and silicon oxynitride (SiON). The second encapsulation layer 273 may include at least one of epoxy resin, polyimide, polyethylene, and acrylate.

[0102] The touch portion may be disposed on the package stack 270. The touch portion may include a touch buffer layer 277, a touch sensor 287, a touch interlayer insulating layer 282, a first touch protection layer 290, and a second touch protection layer 295.

[0103] A touch buffer layer 277 may be disposed on the third encapsulation layer 275. The touch buffer layer 277 reduces stress between the layers of the encapsulation stack 270 and the touch sensor 287 to prevent damage to the encapsulation stack 270 and the light-emitting element 260. The touch buffer layer 277 may comprise an inorganic insulating material. For example, the touch buffer layer 277 may comprise silicon nitride (SiNx).

[0104] The touch sensor 287 may include a plurality of touch electrodes 285 and bridging electrodes 281. The plurality of touch electrodes 285 and bridging electrodes 281 may be disposed in different layers. For example, the bridging electrode 281 may be disposed on a touch buffer layer 277. The plurality of touch electrodes 287 may be disposed on a touch interlayer insulating layer 282. The plurality of touch electrodes 287 may include a first touch electrode 283 and a second touch electrode 284. The bridging electrode 281 may electrically connect adjacent first touch electrodes 283 to each other. For this purpose, the first touch electrodes 283 may extend through the touch interlayer insulating layer 282 to be connected to the bridging electrode 281. The touch interlayer insulating layer 282 may include an inorganic insulating material. For example, the touch interlayer insulating layer 282 may include silicon nitride (SiNx).

[0105] The first touch electrode 283, the second touch electrode 284, and the bridging electrode 281 may include a conductive material. The first touch electrode 283, the second touch electrode 284, and the bridging electrode 281 may include a single layer or a stack of multiple layers made of one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu) and their alloys.

[0106] Each of the touch buffer layer 277 and the touch interlayer insulating layer 282 may extend toward the non-display area NAA.

[0107] A first touch protection layer 290 may be disposed on the touch sensor 287. The first touch protection layer 290 prevents damage to the touch sensor 287 from external impacts and moisture. The first touch protection layer 290 may comprise an organic insulating material. For example, the first touch protection layer 290 may be made of a photosensitive acrylic-based or polyimide-based organic material. The first touch protection layer 290 may extend into the non-display area NAA. For example, the first touch protection layer 290 may extend into the non-display area NAA surrounding the display area AA.

[0108] A second touch protection layer 295 may be disposed on the first touch protection layer 290. The second touch protection layer 295 further protects the touch sensor 287 from external impacts and moisture. Furthermore, the second touch protection layer 295 can flatten steps caused by the pattern constituting the touch sensor 287 disposed beneath it. The second touch protection layer 295 may include an organic insulating material. For example, the second touch protection layer 295 may include the same organic insulating material as the first touch protection layer 290. However, embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, the second touch protection layer 295 may include an organic insulating material different from the organic insulating material of the first touch protection layer 290.

[0109] Figure 3 and Figure 4 This is a diagram according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A magnified plan view of region A. Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view taken from line III-III'. Figure 3 and Figure 4 In this context, the same constituent elements may use the same reference numerals.

[0110] Figure 3 This shows a display panel 200 (see [link]). Figure 1 An enlarged view of the lower corner region at 200BC_E. For ease of explanation, Figure 3 The diagram shows a display panel 200 (see [link]). Figure 1 This example illustrates the lower right corner region of the lower left corner and the lower right corner of the lower right corner. However, embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, the lower left corner region including the lower left corner can also be configured in the same manner as the lower right corner region including the lower right corner. Therefore, in the following, the lower right corner may be referred to as the lower corner 200BC_E.

[0111] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4The display panel 200 may include a lower corner portion connected to the flexible region BDA and positioned on the lower side in the plan view of the display region AA. The lower corner region of the non-display region NAA may be defined as a portion of the link region LKA located at the lower corner end 200BC_E, and the lower corner portion may be a part of, but is not limited to, this lower corner region. The non-display region NAA surrounds the exterior of the display region AA. The non-display region NAA may include a first area BZ1 and a second area BZ2. The first area BZ1 may be positioned closer to the display region AA than the second area BZ2. The second area BZ2 may be positioned outside the first area BZ1. The first area BZ1 surrounds the display region AA. For example, the second area BZ2 may be the area surrounding the first area BZ1. The second area BZ2 may include the lower corner end 200BC_E.

[0112] The first region BZ1 of the non-display area NAA can be a region in which signal lines 257 and multiple structures are disposed. Signal lines 257 can extend from the display area AA and are disposed in the non-display area NAA, including the link area LKA. For example, the first region BZ1 can be a region in which one end of the signal line 257 is disposed. The other end of the signal line 257 can extend to a second region BZ2, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. However, embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0113] Multiple structures may include a first blocking structure BS1, a second blocking structure BS2, and a dam DM. The first blocking structure BS1 may be positioned closest to the display area AA. The dam DM may be positioned furthest from the display area AA. The second blocking structure BS2 may be positioned between the first blocking structure BS1 and the dam DM. The first blocking structure BS1, the second blocking structure BS2, and the dam DM may be positioned in a non-display area NAA surrounding the display area AA. For example, each of the first blocking structure BS1, the second blocking structure BS2, and the dam DM may extend in a linear shape along at least the upper, left, and right sides of the display panel 200. As another example, each of the first blocking structure BS1, the second blocking structure BS2, and the dam DM may extend in a linear shape in a linking area LKA, such as... Figure 3 As shown.

[0114] Insulating material layers (e.g., 205, 213, 214, and 219) extending from the display area AA can be vertically stacked on the substrate 201 in a portion of the non-display area NAA corresponding to the lower corner region. Therefore, the insulating material layers can constitute a multi-layered stack. For example, the insulating material layers may include a structure in which a first buffer layer 205, a first insulating structure 213, a first interlayer insulating layer 214, and a second insulating structure 219 are sequentially stacked on the substrate.

[0115] A first conductive pattern 223-1 may be disposed on a first insulating structure 213 to be spaced apart from each other. The first conductive pattern 223-1 may be made of the same material as the first gate electrode 223 and may be formed in the same process as that used to form the first gate electrode 223. The first conductive pattern 223-1 may be covered by a first interlayer insulating layer 214. A second conductive pattern 232-1 may be disposed on the first interlayer insulating layer 214 to be spaced apart from the first conductive pattern 223-1. The second conductive pattern 232-1 may be made of the same material as the second storage electrode 232 and may be formed in the same process as that used to form the second storage electrode 232. However, embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto. A second insulating structure 219 may be disposed on the second conductive pattern 232-1. The first conductive pattern 223-1 and the second conductive pattern 232-1 may be arranged to vertically overlap each other.

[0116] For example, the first conductive pattern 223-1 and the second conductive pattern 232-1 may be wires that transmit signals or voltages to a pixel driving circuit disposed in the display area AA. However, embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, the first conductive pattern 223-1 and the second conductive pattern 232-1 may extend toward the flexible area BDA.

[0117] Signal line 257 may be disposed on second insulation structure 219. Signal line 257 may include first line 246-1 and second line 255-1 disposed on first line 246-1. Second line 255-1 may be contacted and electrically connected to first line 246-1.

[0118] The first line 246-1 may include the same material as the second source electrode 245 or the second drain electrode 246, and may be formed in the same process as that used to form the second source electrode 245 or the second drain electrode 246. The second line 255-1 disposed on the first line 246-1 may include the same material as the pixel contact electrode 255, and may be formed in the same process as that used to form the pixel contact electrode 255. For example, signal line 257 may include a low-potential power (VSS) line. The low-potential power (VSS) line may provide a reference voltage to the light-emitting element 260 disposed in the display area AA. The low-potential power (VSS) line may be configured to surround the upper, left, and right sides of the display area AA to reduce its resistance.

[0119] One end of the first line 246-1 of the signal line 257 may be covered by a first planarization layer 251 extending from the display area AA. One end of the second line 255-1 may be disposed on the first planarization layer 251. The second line 255-1 may extend from the first planarization layer 251 to the first line 246-1, and may extend in a direction away from the display area AA to a portion of the upper surface of the second insulating structure 219.

[0120] One end of the second line 255-1 of the signal line 257 may be covered by the second planarization layer 252 extending from the display area AA.

[0121] The embankment 262 can be set on the second planarization layer 252.

[0122] A first barrier structure BS1 disposed in the first zone BZ1 may be disposed on the embankment 262. The first barrier structure BS1 may include a first layer 264-1 comprising an organic insulating material. The first layer 264-1 of the first barrier structure BS1 may be formed in the same process as the process for forming the spacer 264 in the display area AA. Therefore, the first layer 264-1 of the first barrier structure BS1 may be made of the same material as the spacer 264.

[0123] The second barrier structure BS2 may be spaced apart from the first barrier structure BS1 and may be disposed in the first region BZ1. The second barrier structure BS2 may have a structure in which a first layer 262-2 and a second layer 264-2 are vertically stacked on the anode electrode 261. For example, the first layer 262-2 of the second barrier structure BS2 may be made of the same material as the embankment 262 and may be formed in the same process as the process used to form the embankment 262. The second layer 264-2 of the second barrier structure BS2 may be made of the same material as the spacer 264 and may be formed in the same process as the process used to form the spacer 264.

[0124] The dam section DM can be spaced apart from the second barrier structure BS2 and can be disposed in the first zone BZ1. The dam section DM can have a structure in which a first layer 252-3, a second layer 262-3, and a third layer 264-3 are stacked sequentially such that the first layer 252-3 is the lowest layer. For example, the first layer 252-3 of the dam section DM can be made of the same material as the second planarization layer 252 and can be formed in the same process as the process used to form the second planarization layer 252. The second layer 262-3 located on the first layer 252-3 can be made of the same material as the dike section 262 and can be formed in the same process as the process used to form the dike section 262. The third layer 264-3 located on the second layer 262-3 can be made of the same material as the spacer 264 and can be formed in the same process as the process used to form the spacer 264.

[0125] The anode electrode portion 261' may be disposed between the second planarization layer 252 and the embankment 262. The anode electrode portion 261' may be made of the same material as the anode electrode 261 of the light-emitting element 260 in the display area AA, and may be formed in the same process as that used to form the anode electrode 261. The anode electrode portion 261' may be disposed in both the display area AA and the non-display area NAA. Signal line 257 and cathode electrode 254 (see...) Figure 2 The anode electrode portion 261' can extend from the display area AA to the non-display area NAA surrounding the display area AA. Therefore, the anode electrode portion 261' can be electrically connected to the signal line 257 and the cathode electrode 265 in the non-display area NAA surrounding the display area AA. For example, the signal line 257, the anode electrode portion 261', and the cathode electrode 265 can be electrically connected to each other in the non-display areas NAA on the upper, left, and right sides of the display panel 200. The anode electrode portion 261' can be cut off to disconnect it in a portion of the non-display area NAA near the lower corner end 200BC_E of the display panel (i.e., in the lower corner region).

[0126] In the portion of the non-display area NAA near the lower corner 200BC_E of the display panel, the end of the disconnected anode electrode portion 261' may be covered by an organic insulating material. For example, the end of the disconnected anode electrode portion 261' may be covered by the second layer 262-3 of the dam portion DM. For example, refer to... Figure 3 The end of the anode electrode portion 261' in the second direction Y (as the column direction of the display panel) can be covered by the dam portion DM, while the end of the anode electrode portion 261' in the first direction X (as the row direction of the display panel) can be exposed through the space between the second blocking structure BS2 and the dam portion DM. Alternatively, the other end of the anode electrode portion 261' in the first direction X can be exposed through the space between the second blocking structure BS2 and the first blocking structure BS1.

[0127] The exposed end of the anode electrode portion 261' can form an air gap and serve as a path through which moisture can flow. When a damage point occurs in the dam section DM in the lower corner region or in a portion adjacent to the dam section DM, moisture can be introduced through the damage point and can flow along the path formed by… Figure 3 The arrow d1 indicates the path of flow, allowing moisture to penetrate into the pixel P of the display area AA.

[0128] For example, moisture introduced through a damage point in the dam section DM can flow along the shape of the dam section DM, which includes organic insulating material, in a first direction X, which is the row direction, and can flow to the second barrier structure BS2 through an air gap extending in the column direction along the anode electrode portion 261' provided between the dam section DM and the second barrier structure BS2. Moisture flowing toward the second barrier structure BS2 can flow along the shape of the second barrier structure BS2 in the first direction X, which is the row direction, and can flow to the first barrier structure BS1 through an air gap extending in the column direction along the anode electrode portion 261' provided between the second barrier structure BS2 and the first barrier structure BS1. Then, moisture can be introduced into the display area AA through the first barrier structure BS1, which is positioned adjacent to the display area AA.

[0129] For example, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 4 In the non-display areas NAA on the upper, left, and right sides of the display panel 200, the side end 271E of the first encapsulation layer 271 can be located inside the side end 275_E of the third encapsulation layer 275, and therefore the first encapsulation layer 271 can cover the third encapsulation layer 275 with sufficient thickness. Furthermore, the second line 255-1 of the signal line 257 can be completely covered by the second planarization layer 252, and therefore is not exposed.

[0130] However, the non-display area NAA may narrow as it extends toward the lower corner 200BC_E (from which the flexible area BDA of the display panel 200 extends). Therefore, the point where the first encapsulation layer 271 and the third encapsulation layer 275 meet may occur at the lower corner 200BC_E. In the second region BZ2, which includes the point where the first encapsulation layer 271 and the third encapsulation layer 275 meet, the end of the signal line 257 may be exposed without being covered by the second planarization layer 252. For example, the first planarization layer 251 and the second planarization layer 252 may be disposed in the region including the lower corner 200BC_E located in the second region BZ2. Therefore, the end of the signal line 257 may be covered only by the first encapsulation layer 271 and the third encapsulation layer 275. Each of the first encapsulation layer 271 and the third encapsulation layer 275 may be referred to as an inorganic insulating structure.

[0131] A seam SM may appear at a portion B of the end of the signal line 257 covered by the first encapsulation layer 271 and the third encapsulation layer 275. However, the thickness of the portion of the end of the first encapsulation layer 271 covering the second line 255-1 may be reduced as the first encapsulation layer 271 extends toward the lower corner end 200BC_E and the side end 271E of the first encapsulation layer 271. The portion B at the end of the signal line 257 may serve as a moisture inflow point.

[0132] Moisture can permeate through the end of signal line 257 and enter the portion containing the seam SM. Moisture passing through the end of signal line 257 can propagate along both a first flow direction DR1 toward the multiple structures BS1, BS2, and DM, and a second flow direction DR2 toward the lower corner end 200BC_E. Moisture flowing along the first flow direction DR1 can flow to the display area AA via the portion of the anode electrode portion 261' that is positioned below the multiple structures as a moisture permeation path.

[0133] Moisture that has flowed into the display area DA can corrode the light-emitting element or the lines of the pixel driving circuit that apply driving current to the light-emitting element, or damage the light-emitting layer of the light-emitting element, resulting in defects such as dark spots where the pixel does not emit light.

[0134] Therefore, another embodiment of this disclosure may provide a structure in which the anode electrode portion 261' can be prevented from becoming a moisture penetration path in the non-display area NAA (i.e., in the lower corner region) including the lower corner end 200BC_E of the display panel 200.

[0135] Figure 5 and Figure 6 This is a diagram according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A magnified plan view of region A. Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken from line III-III'. Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the text, a brief description or omission of related terms will be provided. Figure 3 and Figure 4 Description of the same parts. The same constituent elements may use the same reference numerals.

[0136] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 The lower corner area of ​​the non-display area NAA of the display panel 200 may include a first area BZ1 and a second area BZ2. The lower corner area of ​​the display panel 200 may be connected to the flexible area BDA.

[0137] The first blocking structure BS1, the second blocking structure BS2, and the dam section DM can be located in the first zone BZ1 of the non-display area NAA. The second zone BZ2 can be located outside the first zone BZ1.

[0138] Insulating material layers (e.g., 205, 213, 214, and 219) extending from the display area AA can be vertically stacked on a portion of the substrate 201 of the non-display area NAA corresponding to the lower corner region. Therefore, the insulating material layers can form a multi-layered stack. Signal lines 257 can be disposed on a second insulating structure 219 within the insulating material layers. For example, signal lines 257 may include low-potential power (VSS) lines. Signal lines 257 may include a first line 246-1 and a second line 255-1 located on the first line 246-1.

[0139] One end of the second line 255-1 of signal line 257 may be covered by a second planarization layer 252 extending from the display area AA. In one example, the other end of the second line 255-1 may be left uncovered by the dam section DM so that it can be exposed.

[0140] Multiple structures disposed in the first zone BZ1 may include a first barrier structure BS1, a second barrier structure BS2, and a dam section DM. Among the multiple structures, the first barrier structure BS1 may be disposed on the dam section 262. The first barrier structure BS1 may include a first layer 264-1 comprising an organic insulating material. The second barrier structure BS2 may be spaced apart from the first barrier structure BS1. The second barrier structure BS2 may include a structure in which a first layer 262-2 and a second layer 264-2 are stacked. Each of the first layer 262-2 and the second layer 264-2 of the second barrier structure BS2 may include an organic insulating material. The dam section DM may be disposed spaced apart from the second barrier structure BS2. The dam section DM may be closer to the second zone BZ2 than the second barrier structure BS2.

[0141] An anode electrode portion 261' extending from the display area AA may be disposed on the second planarization layer 252. The anode electrode portion 261' may extend from the second planarization layer 252 and may be electrically connected to the signal line 257. For example, the anode electrode portion 261' may be in direct contact with the second line 255-1 of the signal line 257.

[0142] One end of the anode electrode portion 261' may be covered by the first layer 262-2 of the second barrier structure BS2. The anode electrode portion 261' may not extend to the dam portion DM and may be disconnected at the second barrier structure BS2 in the lower corner region. The second line 255-1 of the signal line 257 may be exposed through the space between the dam portion DM and the second barrier structure BS2.

[0143] A first encapsulation layer 271 and a third encapsulation layer 275, comprising inorganic insulating material, may be vertically stacked on each of the first barrier structure BS1, the second barrier structure BS2, and the dam section DM. In the first encapsulation layer 271 and the third encapsulation layer 275, the side end 275E of the third encapsulation layer 275 may extend to the lower corner end 200BC_E. For example, the side end 275E of the third encapsulation layer 275 may vertically overlap with the lower corner end 200BC_E.

[0144] The second line 255-1 of the signal line 257 exposed through the space between the dam section DM and the second barrier structure BS2 may be covered by a first encapsulation layer 271 and a third encapsulation layer 275 comprising inorganic insulating material.

[0145] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 5 The area between the dam portion DM at the lower corner end 200BC_E, which is positioned closer to the lower corner region of the display panel 200, and the second barrier structure BS2 may include a disconnection region C, from which a portion of the anode electrode portion 261' has been removed. Therefore, even if the dam portion DM is damaged and moisture seeps into the damaged portion in the lower corner region, the anode electrode portion 261' is not present in the disconnection region C between the dam portion DM and the second barrier structure BS2, thereby preventing moisture from flowing into the second barrier structure BS2.

[0146] For example, when a damage point occurs in a predetermined area of ​​the dam section DM, the damage point can be a path for water infiltration. Since the dam section DM includes organic insulation material, water that infiltrates through the damage point can flow along the shape of the dam section DM in a first direction, which is the row direction. For example, the first direction can be the X-axis direction, and can also be referred to as the row direction.

[0147] However, it is possible for moisture to flow along the shape of the dam section DM. However, a portion of the anode electrode portion 261' located between the dam section DM and the second blocking structure BS2 is cut off in the disconnection region C. Therefore, as indicated by the arrow, it is possible to prevent moisture from flowing in a second direction intersecting the first direction. For example, the second direction could be the Y-axis direction, and in the plan view of the display device, it could be referred to as the column direction.

[0148] This prevents moisture from flowing through the anode electrode portion 261' in the second direction intersecting the first direction and then into the display area AA. Therefore, product reliability is improved because a stable signal or voltage can be provided for the operation of the display area AA.

[0149] Furthermore, the disconnected region C of the anode electrode portion 261' can be covered by an inorganic insulating structure. For example, the inorganic insulating structure may include a first encapsulation layer 271 and a third encapsulation layer 275. However, embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto. Each of the first encapsulation layer 271 and the third encapsulation layer 275 may include a layer of inorganic insulating material. Therefore, since the disconnected region C is covered by an inorganic insulating structure, a structure that resists moisture penetration into the disconnected region can be achieved.

[0150] In the lower corner region of the display panel 200, including the lower corner end 200BC_E of the display panel 200, each of the first barrier structure BS1, the second barrier structure BS2, and the dam section DM, which include organic insulating material, can be covered by inorganic insulating material. That is, since all the films including organic insulating material are covered by films including inorganic insulating material, a structure that resists moisture penetration can be achieved.

[0151] Furthermore, since the second line 255-1 of the signal line 257 exposed through the disconnected area C between the dam section DM and the second barrier structure BS2 is covered by a first encapsulation layer 271 and a third encapsulation layer 275 comprising inorganic insulating material, moisture will not flow through the second barrier structure BS2. Therefore, a structure resistant to moisture penetration can be achieved.

[0152] Figure 7 and Figure 8 This is a view according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A magnified plan view of region A. Figure 8 It is along Figure 7 A cross-sectional view taken from line III-III'. Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the text, a brief description or omission of related terms will be provided. Figure 3 and Figure 4 Description of the same parts. The same constituent elements may use the same reference numerals.

[0153] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 The non-display area NAA, located in a portion of the lower corner area of ​​the display panel 200, may include a first zone BZ1 and a second zone BZ2. A first blocking structure BS1, a second blocking structure BS2, and a dam DM may be disposed within the first zone BZ1. The second zone BZ2 may be located outside the first zone BZ1.

[0154] Insulating material layers (e.g., 205, 213, 214, and 219) extending from the display area AA can be sequentially stacked on the substrate 201 in the first region BZ1. Signal lines 257 can be disposed on a second insulating structure 219 within the insulating material layers. For example, signal lines 257 may include low-potential power (VSS) lines. Signal lines 257 may include a first line 246-1 and a second line 255-1 disposed on a first line 246-1.

[0155] The multiple structures disposed in the first zone BZ1 may include a first blocking structure BS1, a second blocking structure BS2, and a dam section DM. For example, each of the multiple structures may be configured to overlap with the signal line 257 in the vertical direction.

[0156] In multiple structures, the first blocking structure BS1 can be positioned closest to the display area AA, and the dam section DM can be positioned furthest from the display area AA, and can be positioned closest to the lower corner end 200BC_E. The second blocking structure BS2 can be positioned between the first blocking structure BS1 and the dam section DM.

[0157] A first barrier structure BS1 may be disposed on the embankment 62 and may include a first layer 264-1 comprising an organic insulating material. A second barrier structure BS2 may include a first layer 262-2 and a second layer 264-2 disposed on top of the first layer 262-2. Each of the first layer 262-2 and the second layer 264-2 of the second barrier structure BS2 may include an organic insulating material. The dam section DM may be a structure in which a first layer 252-3, a second layer 262-3, and a third layer 264-3 are stacked sequentially such that the first layer 252-3 is the bottommost layer. Each of the first layer 252-3, the second layer 262-3, and the third layer 264-3 of the dam section DM may include an organic insulating material.

[0158] One end of the second line 255-1 of signal line 257 may be covered by the second planarization layer 252. In the example, the other end of the second line 255-1 may not be covered by the dam section DM so that it can be exposed.

[0159] An anode electrode portion 261' extending from the display area AA may be disposed on the second planarization layer 252. The anode electrode portion 261' may extend from the second planarization layer 252 and may be electrically connected to the signal line 257. For example, the anode electrode portion 261' may be in direct contact with the second line 255-1 of the signal line 257.

[0160] The anode electrode portion 261' may include multiple disconnected regions, wherein the anode electrode portion 261' is disconnected between adjacent members of the first blocking structure BS1, the second blocking structure BS2, and the dam portion DM. For example, the multiple disconnected regions of the anode electrode portion 261' may include a first disconnected region S1 disposed between the second blocking structure BS2 and the dam portion DM, and a second disconnected region S2 disposed between the first blocking structure BS1 and the second blocking structure BS2. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. The first disconnected region S1 and the second disconnected region S2 may be disposed at different locations so as not to overlap with each other in the second direction Y, which is the column direction of the display panel 200 (especially in the direction from the lower corner end 200BC_E to the display area AA).

[0161] Reference Figure 7 In each of the plurality of disconnected regions, the anode electrode portion 261' is disconnected or discontinuous in the second direction Y, which is the column direction of the display panel 200. When the anode electrode portion 261' is cut in the second disconnected region S2 located between the first blocking structure BS1 and the second blocking structure BS2, a portion of the surface of the second line 255-1 of the signal line 257 may be exposed in the second disconnected region S2.

[0162] In one example, the anode electrode portion 261' may include a first portion disposed on one side of the second disconnection region S2 in the Y direction and a second portion disposed on the other side of the second disconnection region S2 in the Y direction, with the second disconnection region S2 interposed between the first and second portions. For example, the first portion of the anode electrode portion 261' may be disposed near the display area AA, and its second portion may be disposed near the lower corner 200BC_E of the display panel.

[0163] For example, a second disconnection region S2 in the plurality of disconnection regions is inserted in the Y direction between the first and second portions of the anode electrode portion 261'. In this case, the first portion may be covered by the dam portion 262. The end of the second portion of the anode electrode portion 261' may be covered by the dam portion DM. For example, the end of the second portion of the anode electrode portion 261' may be covered by the second layer 262-3 of the dam portion DM.

[0164] A first encapsulation layer 271 and a third encapsulation layer 275, comprising inorganic insulating material, may be vertically stacked on each of the first barrier structure BS1, the second barrier structure BS2, and the dam section DM. In the first encapsulation layer 271 and the third encapsulation layer 275, the side end 275E of the third encapsulation layer 275 may extend to the lower corner end 200BC_E. For example, the side end 275E of the third encapsulation layer 275E may vertically overlap with the lower corner end 200BC_E.

[0165] A portion of the second wire 255-1 of signal line 257 exposed in each of the multiple disconnected areas between adjacent elements in the first barrier structure BS1, the second barrier structure BS2, and the dam section DM may be covered by a first encapsulation layer 271 and a third encapsulation layer 275 comprising inorganic insulating material.

[0166] The anode electrode portion 261' may have at least one disconnected region defined between adjacent elements of the first blocking structure BS1, the second blocking structure BS2, and the dam portion DM. Within the disconnected region, the anode electrode portion 261' may be positioned as a second direction Y (see column direction) in a plan view of the display panel. Figure 7 The pattern length of the anode electrode portion 261', which can be used as a moisture permeation path, can be cut off or discontinuous on the first direction X, which is the row direction of the display panel (see...). Figure 7 Therefore, when moisture permeates through the moisture inflow point of the first region BZ1 (where the end of signal line 257 is exposed), the length of the moisture permeation path increases, thereby delaying the time it takes for moisture to permeate into the display area AA.

[0167] For example, refer to Figure 7 As the non-display area NAA narrows as it extends toward the lower end 200B_E of the display panel, a point may appear where the first encapsulation layer 271 and the third encapsulation layer 275 meet at the lower corner end 200BC_E. This meeting point may include the end of the second line 255-1 of the signal line 257. The end of the second line 255-1 may not be covered by any of the first layer 252-3, the second layer 262-3, and the third layer 264-3 of the dam section DM. Therefore, the end of the second line 255-1 may be covered by both the first encapsulation layer 271 and the third encapsulation layer 275. However, the thickness of the portion of the first encapsulation layer 271 covering the end of the second line 255-1 decreases as this portion extends toward the lower corner end 200BC_E and the side end 271E of the first encapsulation layer 271, making the portion covering the end of the signal line 257 a potential point of moisture introduction (or a weak point where moisture enters).

[0168] Water that permeates through the water inflow point can flow in a first direction, which is the row direction of the display panel, along the shape of the dam DM, which includes organic insulating material. Water can flow in a second direction, which is the column direction of the display panel, through the exposed end of the anode electrode portion 261' disposed between the dam DM and the second barrier structure BS2, and then flow in the first direction, which is the row direction of the display panel, along the shape of the second barrier structure BS2. Then, water can flow in the second direction through the exposed end of the anode electrode portion 261' disposed between the second barrier structure BS2 and the first barrier structure BS1. Therefore, the length of the water permeation path increases. For example, the first direction can be the X-axis direction and may also be referred to as the row direction. For example, the second direction can be the Y-axis direction and may also be referred to as the column direction.

[0169] In this regard, multiple notches may be defined in a portion of the anode electrode portion 261' extending from the lower left or right corner 200BC_E to the right or left side of the display panel. Since the multiple notches are used to disconnect the anode electrode portion 261', moisture may not flow from each of the lower left or right corners 200BC_E to the display area AA.

[0170] Furthermore, since the anode electrode portion 261' is cut off in the first disconnection region S1 provided between the dam section DM and the second blocking structure BS2, or in the second disconnection region S2 provided between the second blocking structure BS2 and the first blocking structure BS1, moisture flow to the first portion of the anode electrode portion 261' can be prevented. Therefore, due to the increased length of the moisture penetration path, the time for moisture to penetrate into the display area AA can be delayed. Thus, since a stable signal or voltage can be provided for the operation of the display area AA, product reliability can be improved.

[0171] Furthermore, each of the first barrier structure BS1, the second barrier structure BS2, and the dam section DM, which includes organic insulating materials, can be covered by inorganic insulating materials in the lower corner region (including the right and left lower corner ends 200BC_E) of the display panel 200 in the plan view of the display panel 200. That is, since all the films including organic insulating materials are covered by films including inorganic insulating materials, a structure that resists moisture penetration can be ensured.

[0172] Furthermore, since the second line 255-1 of the signal line 257 exposed through the second disconnection region S2 defined between the first barrier structure BS1 and the second barrier structure BS2 is covered by the first encapsulation layer 271 and the third encapsulation layer 275, which include inorganic insulating material, moisture can not flow through the first barrier structure BS1. Therefore, a structure resistant to moisture penetration can be achieved.

[0173] In embodiments of this disclosure, the anode electrode portion can be prevented from acting as a moisture penetration path, or the length of the moisture penetration path can be increased to increase the time for moisture to penetrate into the display area. Therefore, the defect rate of the display device due to moisture penetration into the display area can be reduced. Consequently, the production energy required for the additional production of the display device can be reduced, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

[0174] A display device according to one aspect of this disclosure and various embodiments can be described as follows.

[0175] One aspect of this disclosure provides a display device, comprising: a substrate including a display area and a non-display area surrounding the display area in a plan view of the display device, the non-display area including: a flexible region; and a lower corner region connected to the flexible region, wherein the lower corner region has a lower corner end; a plurality of structures disposed on the substrate and in the lower corner region and spaced apart from each other in the plan view; and an anode electrode portion disposed on the substrate and in the display area and the non-display area, wherein the anode electrode portion has at least one break region between adjacent structures disposed in the plurality of structures in the plan view.

[0176] According to some embodiments, the end of the anode electrode portion is covered by at least one of a plurality of structures.

[0177] According to some embodiments, the display device also includes signal lines disposed in a non-display area and electrically connected to the anode electrode portion.

[0178] According to some embodiments, the signal line includes a low-potential power line.

[0179] According to some embodiments, the non-display area includes: a first area adjacent to the display area; and a second area located outside the first area and surrounding the first area.

[0180] According to some embodiments, each of the plurality of structures includes an organic insulating material.

[0181] According to some embodiments, the plurality of structures include: a first blocking structure disposed in a first area, wherein the first blocking structure is closest to the display area among the plurality of structures; a dam disposed in the first area, wherein the dam is closest to the lower corner end among the plurality of structures; and a second blocking structure disposed between the first blocking structure and the dam.

[0182] According to some embodiments, at least one of the disconnected regions of the anode electrode portion is located between the second barrier structure and the dam portion.

[0183] According to some embodiments, one end of the anode electrode portion is covered by a second blocking structure.

[0184] According to some embodiments, at least one of the disconnected regions of the anode electrode portion is disposed between the first blocking structure and the second blocking structure.

[0185] According to some embodiments, the anode electrode portion includes a first portion disposed on one side of at least one of the disconnected regions and a second portion disposed on the other side of at least one of the disconnected regions, wherein the end of the second portion of the anode electrode portion is covered by a dam portion.

[0186] According to some embodiments, the display device also includes an inorganic insulating structure covering multiple structures, wherein at least one disconnected region of the anode electrode portion is covered by the inorganic insulating structure.

[0187] According to some embodiments, at least one disconnected region of the anode electrode portion includes: a first disconnected region disposed between the second blocking structure and the dam; and a second disconnected region located between the first blocking structure and the second blocking structure.

[0188] According to some embodiments, the first break area and the second break area are set at different positions so that they do not overlap with each other in the direction from the lower corner to the display area.

[0189] According to some embodiments, the display device further includes a light-emitting element disposed in the display area, wherein the light-emitting element includes an anode electrode, a light-emitting layer and a cathode electrode, and the anode electrode portion is formed of the same material as the anode electrode in the same process used to form the anode electrode.

[0190] According to some embodiments, the anode electrode portion is electrically connected to the cathode electrode in a non-display area.

[0191] Although some embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments and can be implemented in various different forms. Those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains will understand that the present disclosure can be implemented in other specific forms without altering the technical concept or essential characteristics of the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described above are not limiting, but rather illustrative in all respects.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: A substrate includes a display area and a non-display area surrounding the display area in a plan view of the display device, the non-display area comprising: Flexible area; and A lower corner region, which is connected to the flexible region, wherein the lower corner region has a lower corner end; Multiple structures are disposed on the substrate and in the lower corner region and are spaced apart from each other in the plan view; and The anode electrode portion is disposed on the substrate and in the display area and the non-display area. The anode electrode portion has at least one disconnected region between adjacent structures that are disposed in the plurality of structures in the plan view.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The end of the anode electrode portion is covered by at least one of the plurality of structures.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The display device also includes signal lines that are disposed in the non-display area and electrically connected to the anode electrode portion.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein, The signal line includes a low-potential power line.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The non-display area includes: The first zone, which is adjacent to the display area; and The second zone is located outside and around the first zone.

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of structures contains an organic insulating material.

7. The display device according to claim 5, wherein, The plurality of structures include: A first blocking structure is disposed in the first area, wherein the first blocking structure is closest to the display area among the plurality of structures; A dam section, which is located in the first area, wherein the dam section is closest to the lower corner end among the plurality of structures; and A second barrier structure is disposed between the first barrier structure and the dam section.

8. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, One of the at least one disconnected regions of the anode electrode portion is located between the second barrier structure and the dam portion.

9. The display device according to claim 8, wherein, One end of the anode electrode portion is covered by the second blocking structure.

10. The display device according to claim 7, wherein, One of the at least one disconnected regions of the anode electrode portion is disposed between the first blocking structure and the second blocking structure.

11. The display device according to claim 10, wherein, The anode electrode portion includes a first portion disposed on one side of one of the at least one disconnected regions and a second portion disposed on the other side of one of the at least one disconnected regions. The end of the second portion of the anode electrode is covered by the dam portion.

12. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The display device also includes an inorganic insulating structure covering the plurality of structures. Wherein, at least one disconnected region of the anode electrode portion is covered by the inorganic insulating structure.

13. The display device according to claim 7, wherein, The at least one disconnected region of the anode electrode portion includes: A first disconnection zone is located between the second barrier structure and the dam section; and The second disconnection region is located between the first blocking structure and the second blocking structure.

14. The display device according to claim 13, wherein, The first break area and the second break area are located at different positions so that they do not overlap with each other in the direction from the lower corner to the display area.

15. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The display device further includes a light-emitting element disposed in the display area, the light-emitting element including an anode electrode, a light-emitting layer and a cathode electrode, and the anode electrode portion being formed of the same material as the anode electrode in the same process used to form the anode electrode.

16. The display device according to claim 15, wherein, The anode electrode portion is electrically connected to the cathode electrode in the non-display area.

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