Display module and display device

Abstract

This invention discloses a display module and a display device. The display module includes a non-display area, which includes a bent area and an extended area arranged along a first direction. The display module also includes a substrate, a circuit structure to be protected, and an organic layer. The circuit structure to be protected is disposed on the substrate and located within the extended area. The organic layer covers the circuit structure to be protected and has a first groove extending along a second direction. The orthographic projection of the first groove onto the substrate is located between the circuit structure to be protected and the bent area. The first direction intersects the second direction. This invention can reduce the risk of corrosion of the circuit structure in the display module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of display technology, and more particularly to a display module and display device. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of display technology, the application of display modules is becoming more and more widespread, and the requirements for display modules are also getting higher and higher.

[0003] However, the circuit structure in the display module of the related technology is susceptible to corrosion, which affects the display effect. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a display module and display device to reduce the risk of corrosion of the circuit structure in the display module.

[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, a display module is provided, the display module including a non-display area, the non-display area including a bent area and an extended area arranged along a first direction; The display module also includes: Substrate; The circuit structure to be protected is disposed on the substrate and located within the extended region; An organic layer covers the circuit structure to be protected, the organic layer having a first groove extending along a second direction; the orthographic projection of the first groove on the substrate is located between the circuit structure to be protected and the bending region; wherein the first direction intersects the second direction.

[0006] Optionally, the display module further includes multiple preset traces extending from the extension area to the bending area; the first slot includes a first sub-slot, and the orthographic projection of the first sub-slot on the substrate is outside the orthographic projection of the preset traces; Preferably, the orthographic projection of the first sub-groove on the substrate extends through the extension area along the second direction and exposes the preset trace; Preferably, the display module further includes a first conductive layer, a second conductive layer, a third conductive layer, and a fourth conductive layer stacked on the substrate; The organic layer includes a first sub-organic layer and a second sub-organic layer; the first sub-organic layer is located between the third conductive layer and the fourth conductive layer, and the second sub-organic layer covers the fourth conductive layer. The first sub-groove penetrates both the second sub-organic layer and the first sub-organic layer.

[0007] Optionally, the first slot may further include a plurality of second sub-slots that correspond one-to-one with the plurality of preset traces; The orthographic projection of the second sub-groove onto the substrate lies within the orthographic projection of the preset trace; Preferably, the second sub-slot and the first sub-slot are connected; Preferably, the display module further includes a first conductive layer, a second conductive layer, a third conductive layer, and a fourth conductive layer stacked on the substrate; The organic layer includes a first sub-organic layer and a second sub-organic layer; the first sub-organic layer is located between the third conductive layer and the fourth conductive layer, and the second sub-organic layer covers the fourth conductive layer. At least part of the preset trace includes a first sub-trace located on the third conductive layer and a second sub-trace located on the fourth conductive layer, wherein the first sub-trace overlaps with the second sub-trace.

[0008] Optionally, the second sub-groove penetrates the second sub-organic layer and exposes the fourth conductive layer; Preferably, the orthographic projection of the overlap between the first sub-trace and the second sub-trace on the substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of the second sub-groove.

[0009] Optionally, the preset trace includes a third sub-trace located in the second conductive layer, the third sub-trace overlapping with the first sub-trace; the second sub-groove penetrates the first sub-organic layer and the second sub-organic layer; Preferably, the orthographic projection of the second sub-groove on the substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of the third sub-trace; Preferably, the display module further includes an interlayer dielectric layer located between the second conductive layer and the third conductive layer, and the second sub-groove exposes the interlayer dielectric layer.

[0010] Optionally, the preset trace includes a fourth sub-trace located in the first conductive layer, the fourth sub-trace overlapping with the first sub-trace; the second sub-groove penetrates the first sub-organic layer and the second sub-organic layer; Preferably, the orthographic projection of the second sub-groove on the substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of the fourth sub-trace; Preferably, the display module further includes an interlayer dielectric layer located between the second conductive layer and the third conductive layer, and the second sub-groove exposes the interlayer dielectric layer.

[0011] Optionally, the preset traces include multiple first preset traces extending along the first direction; the display module further includes a third preset trace extending along the second direction, the first preset traces are electrically connected to the third preset traces, and the third preset traces are located on the side of the circuit structure to be protected near the bending area; The orthographic projection of the first slot on the substrate is located between the third preset trace and the bending area; Preferably, the extension area further includes a bonding area located on the side of the circuit structure to be protected away from the bending area; at least a portion of the preset trace extends to the bonding area; Preferably, the preset routing includes a first power signal line and / or a second power signal line.

[0012] Optionally, the organic layer further has a second slot located at the edge of the extension region other than the edge adjacent to the bending region; Preferably, the second slot is connected to the first slot, and the second slot and the first slot together surround the circuit structure to be protected.

[0013] Optionally, the display module further includes an inorganic layer that covers the first slot; Preferably, the display module further includes a touch electrode layer, and the inorganic layer covers the touch electrode layer.

[0014] According to another aspect of the present invention, a display device is also provided, the display device comprising the display module as described above.

[0015] The technical solution of this invention employs a display module including a non-display area, which includes a bent area and an extended area arranged along a first direction. The display module also includes a substrate, a circuit structure to be protected, and an organic layer. The circuit structure to be protected is disposed on the substrate and located within the extended area. The organic layer covers the circuit structure to be protected and has a first groove extending along a second direction; the orthographic projection of the first groove on the substrate is located between the circuit structure to be protected and the bent area; wherein the first direction intersects the second direction. The first groove is formed between the circuit structure to be protected and the bent area. When moisture in the bent area is transported to the first groove, it is blocked by the first groove, thereby greatly reducing the amount of moisture entering the circuit structure to be protected, preventing corrosion of the circuit structure by moisture, and ensuring that the display module has a good display effect. Furthermore, since only the groove needs to be formed on the organic layer, no additional film layer is required, thus not increasing the manufacturing cost of the display module.

[0016] It should be understood that the description in this section is not intended to identify key or essential features of the embodiments of the present invention, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the invention. Other features of the invention will become readily apparent from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional view along the A3A4 direction; Figure 4 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional view along the A1A2 direction; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another display module provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 for Figure 5 A cross-sectional view along the A1A2 direction; Figure 7 for Figure 5 Another cross-sectional view along the A1A2 direction; Figure 8 for Figure 5 Another cross-sectional view along the A1A2 direction; Figure 9 for Figure 5 Another cross-sectional view along the A1A2 direction; Figure 10 for Figure 5 Another cross-sectional view along the A1A2 direction; Figure 11 for Figure 5 Another cross-sectional view along the A1A2 direction; Figure 12 for Figure 5 Another cross-sectional view along the A1A2 direction; Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a display device provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0019] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present invention, the technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0020] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this invention are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of the invention described herein can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0021] Just as display modules in related technologies suffer from the problem of easily corroded circuit structures, the inventors, through extensive research, discovered that the cause of this technical problem lies in the fact that display modules have bending and extension areas, with circuit structures housed within the extension areas. When display modules are used for extended periods in environments with high temperature and humidity, their resistance to water and oxygen deteriorates. Moisture can be transported through the adhesive layer in the bending areas into the interior of the display module, and then along the organic layer towards the circuit structures in the extension areas, causing corrosion of the circuit structures and affecting display performance.

[0022] To address the aforementioned technical problems, the present invention proposes the following solutions: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional view along the A3A4 direction. Figure 4 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional view along the A1A2 direction, for reference. Figures 1 to 4 The display module includes a non-display area NAA, which includes a bent area NAA1 and an extended area NAA2 arranged along a first direction Y. The display module also includes a substrate Sub, a circuit structure PC to be protected, and an organic layer PLN. The circuit structure PC to be protected is disposed on the substrate Sub and located within the extended area NAA2. The organic layer PLN covers the circuit structure PC to be protected and has a first slot GAP1 extending along a second direction X. The orthographic projection of the first slot Gap1 on the substrate Sub is located between the circuit structure PC to be protected and the extended area NAA2. The first direction Y intersects the second direction X.

[0023] Specifically, the display module has a display area (not shown) and a non-display area (NAA). The display area contains multiple pixel driving circuits and light-emitting elements. The pixel driving circuits drive the light-emitting elements to emit light, thereby achieving the display. Figure 2This is a cross-sectional view of the display area in the display module. The non-display area (NAA) of the display module includes a bent area (NAA1) and an extended area (NAA2). The bent area (NAA1) is an arc-shaped region, allowing the extended area (NAA2) to bend to the back of the display module, thus achieving a narrow bezel effect. The organic layer PLN in the display module can cover the entire structure in both the display and non-display areas (NAA), serving a planarization function. After long-term use, the corrosion resistance of the bent area (NAA1) deteriorates, and moisture may be transmitted through the organic layer PLN in the bent area (NAA1) to the extended area (NAA2), causing corrosion of the protected circuit structure (PC) in the extended area (NAA2). The protected circuit structure (PC) can be an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit or a test circuit (CT), etc. The specific circuit structures of ESD protection circuits and test circuits are well known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here. When the circuit structure PC to be protected is an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit, if there is moisture around the ESD protection circuit, high and low pressure differential corrosion may occur, which may cause the data lines in the display module to break, resulting in bright lines during the use of the display module.

[0024] In this embodiment, a first slot Gap1 is formed in the organic layer PLN, between the circuit structure PC to be protected and the bending region NAA1. When moisture in the bending region NAA1 is transported to the first slot Gap1, it is blocked by the first slot Gap1, thereby greatly reducing the amount of moisture entering the circuit structure PC to be protected and preventing the circuit structure PC from being corroded by moisture.

[0025] The technical solution of this embodiment employs a display module including a non-display area, which includes a bent area and an extension area arranged along a first direction. The display module also includes a substrate, a circuit structure to be protected, and an organic layer. The circuit structure to be protected is disposed on the substrate and located within the extension area. The organic layer covers the circuit structure to be protected and has a first groove extending along a second direction; the orthographic projection of the first groove on the substrate is located between the circuit structure to be protected and the bent area; wherein the first direction intersects the second direction. The first groove is formed between the circuit structure to be protected and the bent area. When moisture in the bent area is transported to the first groove, it is blocked by the first groove, thereby greatly reducing the amount of moisture entering the circuit structure to be protected, preventing corrosion of the circuit structure by moisture, and ensuring that the display module has a good display effect. Furthermore, since only the groove needs to be formed on the organic layer, no additional film layer is required, thus not increasing the manufacturing cost of the display module.

[0026] The above is the core idea of ​​this invention. The invention will now be described in detail with reference to specific embodiments.

[0027] For ease of explanation, one structure of the display module will be described first. It should be noted that the specific structure of the display module is not limited to the structure mentioned in this invention.

[0028] refer to Figure 2 The display module includes a substrate Sub, an active layer Act, a first conductive layer M1, a second conductive layer M2, a third conductive layer M3, and a fourth conductive layer M4, stacked sequentially. The substrate Sub can be a rigid substrate or a flexible substrate, etc. The active layer Act is used to form the active structure of the transistor in the pixel driving circuit. The first conductive layer M1 is used to set the gate of the transistor in the pixel driving circuit. The second conductive layer M2 is used to set one plate of the capacitor in the pixel driving circuit. The third conductive layer M3 is used to set the source and drain of the transistor in the pixel driving circuit. The fourth conductive layer M4 is used to set the power signal lines corresponding to the pixel driving circuit, etc., wherein the power signal lines can be the first power signal line ELVDD or the second power signal line ELVSS, etc. A buffer layer Buf can be disposed between the substrate Sub and the active layer Act. A gate insulating layer GI can be disposed between the active layer Act and the first conductive layer M1. An interlayer insulating layer CI can be disposed between the first conductive layer M1 and the second conductive layer M2. An interlayer dielectric layer ILD can be disposed between the second conductive layer M2 and the third conductive layer M3. A first sub-organic layer PLN1 can be disposed between the third conductive layer M3 and the fourth conductive layer M4. A second sub-organic layer PLN2 is disposed on the fourth conductive layer M4. In this embodiment, the organic layer PLN includes the first sub-organic layer PLN1 and the second sub-organic layer PLN2. An anode layer Ano is disposed on the second sub-organic layer PLN2. A pixel defining layer PDL is disposed on the anode layer Ano. The pixel defining layer PDL forms multiple pixel openings, which expose the anode layer Ano. A light-emitting structure is disposed within the pixel openings. The display module also includes a cathode layer covering the entire surface and an encapsulation layer covering the entire display area. The cathode layer is electrically connected to the second power signal line ELVSS.

[0029] Optionally, continue to refer to Figures 1 to 4 The display module also includes multiple preset traces L1 extending from the extension area NAA2 to the bending area NAA1; the first slot Gap1 includes a first sub-slot Gap1A, and the orthographic projection of the first sub-slot Gap1A on the substrate Sub is outside the orthographic projection of the preset traces L1.

[0030] Specifically, such as Figure 1As shown, a bonding area K2 is provided within the non-display area NAA, which is used to bond the flexible circuit board. In some embodiments, a driver chip connection area K1 is also provided within the non-display area NAA, which is used to connect the driver chip. The chip bonding method in this embodiment can be FOP (FPC on Panel). At least a portion of the preset trace L1 extends from the bonding area K2 to the bending area NAA1 and extends into the display area to provide corresponding drive signals for the pixel driving circuit in the display area. Furthermore, the preset trace L1 is adjacent to or covered by the organic layer PLN1. In other words, the film layer containing the preset trace L1 is covered by the first sub-organic layer PLN1 or by the second sub-organic layer PLN2. The preset trace L1 may include at least one of the first power signal line ELVDD and the second power signal line ELVSS described above. For example, the preset trace L1 may include a first preset trace L11 and a second preset trace L12. The first preset trace L11 may be a first power signal line ELVDD, and the second preset trace L12 may be a second power signal line ELVSS.

[0031] In this embodiment, the first sub-slot Gap1A is opened outside the preset trace L1, which can block the path of water vapor in the bending area NAA1 to the circuit structure PC to be protected, thereby preventing the circuit structure PC to be protected from corrosion.

[0032] Further, refer to Figures 1 to 4 The orthographic projection of the first sub-groove Gap1A onto the substrate Sub penetrates the extension region NAA2 along the second direction X and exposes the preset trace L1.

[0033] Specifically, such as Figure 1 As shown, the extension area NAA2 can be divided into a first region N1, a second region N2, and a third region N3 connected sequentially along the first direction Y. The first region N1 is connected to the bending region NAA1. The second region N2 is the area where the first sub-slot Gap1A is set. In this embodiment, the area in the second region N2, except for the preset trace L1, is provided with the first sub-slot Gap1A, thereby further preventing moisture in the bending region NAA1 from entering the circuit structure PC to be protected.

[0034] Optionally, refer to Figure 4 In some implementations, the portion of the second region N2 corresponding to the preset trace L1 may not have a slot, that is, the corresponding organic layer PLN is still retained, so that the wiring method of the preset trace L1 does not need to be changed, making it easier to manufacture the display module.

[0035] Optionally, refer to Figure 4In some embodiments, the preset trace L1 is a double-layer trace in the third conductive layer and the fourth conductive layer, that is, it includes a first sub-trace L1A located in the third conductive layer and a second sub-trace L1B located in the fourth conductive layer, and the first sub-trace L1A and the second sub-trace L1B overlap.

[0036] Optionally, refer to Figure 3 The first sub-groove Gap1A penetrates the second sub-organic layer PLN2 and the first sub-organic layer PLN1.

[0037] Specifically, in this embodiment, the first sub-slot Gap1A completely penetrates the organic layer PLN, so that the organic layer PLN has no continuous organic structure at the first sub-slot Gap1A, thereby further blocking water vapor from entering the vicinity of the circuit structure PC to be protected.

[0038] Optionally, Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of another display module provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 for Figure 5 A cross-sectional view along the A1A2 direction, for reference. Figure 5 and Figure 6 .and Figure 1 The difference is that the first slot Gap1 in this embodiment also includes a plurality of second sub-slots Gap1B, and the plurality of second sub-slots Gap1B correspond one-to-one with a plurality of preset traces L1. Moreover, the orthographic projection of the second sub-slots Gap1B on the substrate Sub is located within the orthographic projection of the corresponding preset trace L1.

[0039] Specifically, in the above embodiment, the organic layer PLN is still retained at the location of the preset trace L1 in the second region N2. Moisture in the bending region NAA1 may still be transmitted to the vicinity of the circuit structure PC to be protected through the organic layer PLN at the location of the preset trace L1. Therefore, in this embodiment, by providing a second sub-groove Gap1B at the location of the preset trace L1, moisture in the bending region NAA1 is further isolated, further reducing the risk of corrosion of the circuit structure PC to be protected.

[0040] Optionally, refer to Figure 5 Along the second direction X, the second sub-slot Gap1B and the first sub-slot Gap1A are connected.

[0041] Specifically, in this embodiment, the first slot Gap1 penetrates the extension area NAA2 along the second direction X, thereby maximally isolating the moisture in the bending area NAA1, preventing moisture from entering the vicinity of the circuit structure PC to be protected, and further reducing the risk of corrosion of the circuit structure PC to be protected.

[0042] Optionally, refer to Figure 5The distance between the first slot Gap1 and the edge of the extension area NAA2 is greater than or equal to 80 micrometers. The first slot Gap1 is far from the edge of the extension area NAA2. When forming the first slot Gap1, it is possible to avoid affecting the edge of the extension area NAA2 (such as affecting the stability of the edge), thereby affecting the stability of the display module.

[0043] Optionally, refer to Figure 5 The width of the first slot Gap1 is greater than or equal to 10 micrometers. It can be understood that the width refers to the dimension in the direction perpendicular to the extension direction. In this case, the first slot Gap1 has a large width, which can further reduce the amount of water vapor entering the vicinity of the circuit structure PC to be protected through the first slot, and also has a lower fabrication difficulty.

[0044] Optionally, refer to Figure 6 The second sub-groove Gap1B penetrates the second sub-organic layer PLN2 and exposes the fourth conductive layer.

[0045] Specifically, in this embodiment, the second sub-trace L1B is continuous at the location of the second sub-slot Gap1B. After the second sub-trace L1B and the second sub-organic layer PLN2 are fabricated, the second sub-slot Gap1B can be further formed only on the second sub-organic layer PLN2. The first sub-organic layer PLN1 remains continuous at the location of the second sub-slot Gap1B. This reduces the size of the organic structure connection between the bending area NAA1 and the extension area NAA2 without changing the routing settings of the preset trace L1, thereby reducing the design and manufacturing costs of the display module.

[0046] Optionally, Figure 7 for Figure 5 Another cross-sectional view along the A1A2 direction, see reference. Figure 5 and Figure 7 The orthographic projection of the junction between the fourth conductive layer and the third conductive layer on the substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of the second sub-groove Gap1B.

[0047] Specifically, in this embodiment, the first sub-trace L1A and the second sub-trace L1B can have at least one overlap, and an overlap of the first sub-trace L1A and the second sub-trace L1B is set at the location of the second sub-slot Gap1B. At the overlap, the first sub-organic layer PLN1 needs to be removed; that is, in this embodiment, the second sub-slot Gap1B is also equivalent to penetrating the first sub-organic layer PLN1 and the second sub-organic layer PLN2. There is no connecting organic structure between the bending area NAA1 and the extension area NAA2, which can block water vapor to a greater extent. Furthermore, the preset trace L1 does not need to be connected through the first conductive layer or the second conductive layer, and the preset trace L1 has good continuity, which is beneficial to reducing impedance.

[0048] Optionally, Figure 8 for Figure 5 Another cross-sectional view along the A1A2 direction, see reference. Figure 5 and Figure 8 In this embodiment, the first sub-trace L1A is continuous in the second region N2, the second sub-trace L1B is disconnected in the second region N2, and the second sub-slot Gap1B penetrates the first sub-organic layer PLN1 and the second sub-organic layer PLN2.

[0049] Optionally, Figure 9 for Figure 5 Another cross-sectional view along the A1A2 direction, see reference. Figure 5 and Figure 9 The preset trace L1 includes a third sub-trace L1C located in the second conductive layer. The third sub-trace L1C overlaps with the first sub-trace L1A. The second sub-slot Gap1B penetrates the first sub-organic layer PLN1 and the second sub-organic layer PLN2.

[0050] Specifically, in this embodiment, since the second sub-groove Gap1B penetrates the entire organic layer PLN, the portions of the preset trace L1 located in the first region N1 and the third region N3 cannot be electrically connected in the third and fourth conductive layers. Therefore, this embodiment utilizes the second conductive layer to switch traces, enabling electrical connection between the portions of the preset trace L1 located in different regions. Furthermore, the third and fourth conductive layers can be TiAlTi stacked metals. During the etching process to form the second sub-groove Gap1B, the TiAlTi stacked metals may be corroded, affecting the electrical stability of the preset trace L1. In this embodiment, the preset trace L1 is switched in the second conductive layer to prevent corrosion and maintain its electrical stability.

[0051] Further optional, refer to Figure 9 The orthographic projection of the second sub-slot Gap1B on the substrate Sub overlaps with the orthographic projection of the third sub-trace L1C. In this embodiment, the third sub-trace L1C, the second sub-trace L1B, and the first sub-trace L1A are located on the same straight line, which can reduce the impedance of the preset trace and also facilitate the routing design of the preset trace.

[0052] Optionally, such as Figure 9 As shown, the second sub-slot Gap1B exposes the interlayer dielectric layer (ILD).

[0053] Specifically, in this embodiment, the interlayer dielectric layer ILD serves as the bottom wall of the second sub-slot Gap1B. The interlayer dielectric layer ILD is an inorganic layer. Subsequently, an inorganic layer can be added to the side wall of the second sub-slot Gap1B to achieve the encapsulation of the third region N3, thereby further protecting the circuit structure PC to be protected.

[0054] Alternatively, in some other embodiments, such as Figure 10 As shown, Figure 10 for Figure 5 Another cross-sectional view along the A1A2 direction. In this embodiment, a second sub-groove Gap1B is provided to penetrate the interlayer dielectric layer (ILD), thereby exposing the second conductive layer. The material of the second conductive layer is, for example, Mo, so that the second conductive layer is less affected when the second sub-groove Gap1B is etched.

[0055] Optionally, Figure 11 for Figure 5 Another cross-sectional view along the A1A2 direction, see reference. Figure 5 and Figure 11 In this embodiment, the preset trace L1 includes a fourth sub-trace L1D located in the first conductive layer, and the fourth sub-trace L1D overlaps with the first sub-trace L1A; the second sub-slot Gap1B penetrates the first sub-organic layer PLN1 and the second sub-organic layer PLN2.

[0056] Specifically, in this embodiment, since the second sub-groove Gap1B penetrates the entire organic layer PLN, the portions of the preset trace L1 located in the first region N1 and the third region N3 cannot be electrically connected in the third and fourth conductive layers. Therefore, this embodiment utilizes the first conductive layer for trace switching to achieve electrical connection between the portions of the preset trace L1 located in different regions. Furthermore, the third and fourth conductive layers can be TiAlTi stacked metals. During the etching process to form the second sub-groove Gap1B, the TiAlTi stacked metals may be corroded, thus affecting the electrical stability of the preset trace L1. In this embodiment, the preset trace L1 is switched in the first conductive layer to avoid corrosion affecting its electrical stability.

[0057] Further optional, refer to Figure 11 The orthographic projection of the second sub-slot Gap1B on the substrate Sub overlaps with the orthographic projection of the fourth sub-trace L1D. In this embodiment, the fourth sub-trace L1D, the second sub-trace L1B, and the first sub-trace L1A are located on the same straight line, which can reduce the impedance of the preset trace and also facilitate the routing design of the preset trace.

[0058] Optionally, such as Figure 11 As shown, the second sub-slot Gap1B exposes the interlayer dielectric layer (ILD).

[0059] Specifically, in this embodiment, the interlayer dielectric layer ILD serves as the bottom wall of the second sub-slot Gap1B. The interlayer dielectric layer ILD is an inorganic layer. Subsequently, an inorganic layer can be added to the side wall of the second sub-slot Gap1B to achieve the encapsulation of the third region N3, thereby further protecting the circuit structure PC to be protected.

[0060] Optionally, refer to Figure 1 The preset trace L1 includes multiple first preset traces L11 extending along the first direction Y; the display module also includes a third preset trace L2 extending along the second direction X. The first preset trace L11 and the third preset trace L2 are electrically connected. The third preset trace L2 is located on the side of the circuit structure PC to be protected near the bending area NAA1; the orthographic projection of the first slot Gap1 on the substrate Sub is located between the third preset trace L2 and the bending area NAA1.

[0061] Specifically, in this embodiment, the third preset trace L2 and multiple first preset traces L11 constitute at least a portion of the first power signal line ELVDD. The third preset trace L2 can electrically connect the multiple first preset traces L11, thereby leading the first power signal line to the bonding area K2 at the edge of the non-display area. Along the first direction Y, there are many circuit structures between the third preset trace L2 and the circuit structure to be protected PC, leaving little remaining space; therefore, a first slot Gap1 can be set between the third preset trace L2 and the bending area NAA1, which can greatly reduce the difficulty of setting the first slot Gap1 on the organic layer PLN.

[0062] Optionally, continue to refer to Figure 1 and Figure 5 The organic layer also has a second slot Gap2, which is located on the edge of the extension region NAA2 other than the edge adjacent to the bending region NAA1.

[0063] Specifically, in this embodiment, the second slot Gap2 and the first slot Gap1 can be connected to form a slot surrounding the extension area NAA2, thereby blocking the transmission of water vapor to the circuit structure PC to be protected from all directions, thus forming effective protection for the circuit structure PC to be protected.

[0064] Further optionally, the distance between the second slot Gap2 and the edge of the extension region NAA2 is greater than or equal to 80 micrometers.

[0065] Further optionally, the width of the second slot Gap2 is greater than or equal to 10 micrometers.

[0066] Optionally, Figure 12 for Figure 5 Another cross-sectional view along the A1A2 direction, see reference. Figure 12 The display module also includes an inorganic layer TPI, which covers the first slot Gap1.

[0067] Specifically, after the inorganic layer covers the first slot Gap1, the inorganic TPI layer can form an encapsulation structure with the interlayer dielectric layer or metal structure, further reducing the probability of the protected circuit structure PC being corroded by moisture. When the display module includes a touch electrode layer, the inorganic TPI layer covers the touch electrode layer. In other words, in this embodiment, the inorganic TPI layer is an inorganic insulating layer in the touch structure, which prevents short circuits between the two touch electrode layers. In this embodiment, the inorganic insulating layer in the touch structure is reused as the inorganic TPI layer, eliminating the need for an additional film layer to encapsulate the non-display area, thus not increasing the cost of the display module.

[0068] Optionally, the inorganic layer TPI covers the second slot Gap2, thereby enabling the non-display area NAA2 to be effectively encapsulated.

[0069] Optionally, refer to Figure 12 The display module also includes a touch planarization layer (TPOC). The TPOC covers the entire display module and can play a planarization role, which is used for subsequent fabrication of cover plates and other structures.

[0070] This invention also provides a display device, such as... Figure 13 As shown. Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of a display device provided in an embodiment of the present invention. The display device includes the display module provided in any embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] The display device can be a mobile phone, tablet computer, MP3 player, MP4 player, smartwatch, smart helmet, or other wearable device. Since the display device provided by this invention includes the display module provided in any embodiment of this invention, it also has the same beneficial effects, and will not be described further here.

[0072] It should be understood that the various forms of processes shown above can be used, with steps reordered, added, or deleted. For example, the steps described in this invention can be executed in parallel, sequentially, or in different orders, as long as the desired result of the technical solution of this invention can be achieved, and this is not limited herein.

[0073] The specific embodiments described above do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications, combinations, sub-combinations, and substitutions can be made according to design requirements and other factors. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this invention should be included within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. A display module, characterized in that, The display module includes a non-display area, which includes a bent area and an extended area arranged along a first direction; The display module also includes: Substrate; The circuit structure to be protected is disposed on the substrate and located within the extended region; An organic layer covers the circuit structure to be protected, the organic layer having a first groove extending along a second direction; the orthographic projection of the first groove on the substrate is located between the circuit structure to be protected and the bending region; wherein the first direction intersects the second direction.

2. The display module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The display module also includes multiple preset traces extending from the extension area to the bending area; the first slot includes a first sub-slot, and the orthographic projection of the first sub-slot on the substrate is outside the orthographic projection of the preset traces; Preferably, the orthographic projection of the first sub-groove on the substrate extends through the extension area along the second direction and exposes the preset trace; Preferably, the display module further includes a first conductive layer, a second conductive layer, a third conductive layer, and a fourth conductive layer stacked on the substrate; The organic layer includes a first sub-organic layer and a second sub-organic layer; the first sub-organic layer is located between the third conductive layer and the fourth conductive layer, and the second sub-organic layer covers the fourth conductive layer. The first sub-groove penetrates both the second sub-organic layer and the first sub-organic layer.

3. The display module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first slot also includes a plurality of second sub-slots that correspond one-to-one with the plurality of preset traces; The orthographic projection of the second sub-groove onto the substrate lies within the orthographic projection of the preset trace; Preferably, the second sub-slot and the first sub-slot are connected; Preferably, the display module further includes a first conductive layer, a second conductive layer, a third conductive layer, and a fourth conductive layer stacked on the substrate; The organic layer includes a first sub-organic layer and a second sub-organic layer; the first sub-organic layer is located between the third conductive layer and the fourth conductive layer, and the second sub-organic layer covers the fourth conductive layer. At least part of the preset trace includes a first sub-trace located on the third conductive layer and a second sub-trace located on the fourth conductive layer, wherein the first sub-trace overlaps with the second sub-trace.

4. The display module according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second sub-groove penetrates the second sub-organic layer and exposes the fourth conductive layer; Preferably, the orthographic projection of the overlap between the first sub-trace and the second sub-trace on the substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of the second sub-groove.

5. The display module according to claim 3, characterized in that, The preset trace includes a third sub-trace located in the second conductive layer, and the third sub-trace overlaps with the first sub-trace; the second sub-groove penetrates the first sub-organic layer and the second sub-organic layer. Preferably, the orthographic projection of the second sub-groove on the substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of the third sub-trace; Preferably, the display module further includes an interlayer dielectric layer located between the second conductive layer and the third conductive layer, and the second sub-groove exposes the interlayer dielectric layer.

6. The display module according to claim 3, characterized in that, The preset trace includes a fourth sub-trace located in the first conductive layer, and the fourth sub-trace overlaps with the first sub-trace; the second sub-groove penetrates the first sub-organic layer and the second sub-organic layer. Preferably, the orthographic projection of the second sub-groove on the substrate overlaps with the orthographic projection of the fourth sub-trace; Preferably, the display module further includes an interlayer dielectric layer located between the second conductive layer and the third conductive layer, and the second sub-groove exposes the interlayer dielectric layer.

7. The display module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The preset traces include multiple first preset traces extending along the first direction; the display module also includes a third preset trace extending along the second direction, the first preset traces are electrically connected to the third preset traces, and the third preset traces are located on the side of the circuit structure to be protected near the bending area; The orthographic projection of the first slot on the substrate is located between the third preset trace and the bending area; Preferably, the extension area further includes a bonding area located on the side of the circuit structure to be protected away from the bending area; At least a portion of the preset traces extend to the bonding area; Preferably, the preset routing includes a first power signal line and / or a second power signal line.

8. The display module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The organic layer also has a second slot, which is located on the edge of the extension region other than the edge adjacent to the bending region. Preferably, the second slot is connected to the first slot, and the second slot and the first slot together surround the circuit structure to be protected.

9. The display module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The display module further includes an inorganic layer that covers the first slot; Preferably, the display module further includes a touch electrode layer, and the inorganic layer covers the touch electrode layer.

10. A display device, characterized in that, The display device includes the display module according to any one of claims 1-9.

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