Display device

Abstract

A display device according to an embodiment includes a substrate including a display area and a non-display area adjacent to each other, a pixel definition film dividing a light emitting area and a non-light emitting area adjacent to each other within the display area, a pixel electrode overlapping the pixel definition film and disposed in the light emitting area, a light emitting layer disposed on the pixel electrode, a common electrode disposed on the pixel definition film and the light emitting layer, an encapsulation layer disposed on the common electrode, a reflection control layer disposed on the encapsulation layer, and an uneven portion defined by a protruding layer disposed between the pixel definition film and the reflection control layer. The protrusion overlaps the non-light emitting area and does not overlap the light emitting area.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to display devices. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of the information society, the demand for display devices for displaying images is increasing in various forms. For example, display devices have been applied to various electronic devices such as smartphones, digital cameras, laptops, navigation devices, and smart TVs.

[0003] Display devices can be flat panel displays such as liquid crystal displays, field emission displays, or light-emitting displays. Light-emitting displays include organic light-emitting displays that include organic light-emitting elements, inorganic light-emitting displays that include inorganic light-emitting elements such as inorganic semiconductors, and ultra-miniature light-emitting displays that include ultra-miniature light-emitting elements.

[0004] An organic light-emitting element may include two opposing electrodes and an emissive layer between them. The emissive layer receives electrons and holes from the two electrodes and causes the electrons and holes to recombine to generate excitons, and the generated excitons change from an excited state to a ground state, thereby emitting light.

[0005] Organic light-emitting display devices, which include organic light-emitting elements, can be configured to be lightweight and thin with low power consumption because they do not require light sources such as backlight units. They have also attracted attention as next-generation display devices due to their high-quality characteristics such as wide viewing angle, high brightness and contrast and fast response speed. Summary of the Invention [Technical Issues]

[0006] This disclosure provides a display device capable of reducing the reflectivity of external light and improving the perception of black.

[0007] However, the aspects of this disclosure are not limited to those set forth herein. These and other aspects of this disclosure will become more apparent to those skilled in the art upon reference to the detailed description of this disclosure given below. [Technical Solution]

[0008] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a display device includes: a substrate including adjacent display areas and non-display areas; a pixel defining film dividing adjacent light-emitting areas and non-light-emitting areas within the display areas; a pixel electrode in the light-emitting area and overlapping the pixel defining film; a light-emitting layer on the pixel electrode; a common electrode on the pixel defining film and the light-emitting layer; an encapsulation layer on the common electrode; a reflection control layer on the encapsulation layer; and an uneven portion defined by a layer of protrusions between the pixel defining film and the reflection control layer, the protrusions overlapping the non-light-emitting areas and not overlapping the light-emitting areas.

[0009] The uneven parts are directly on the pixel-limiting film.

[0010] The reflection control layer includes: a color filter that overlaps with the luminescent area; and a light-shielding layer including a light-shielding pattern that overlaps with the non-luminescent area and divides the light emission opening of the light-shielding layer that overlaps with the luminescent area, and the protrusions of the uneven portion further overlap with the light emission opening of the light-shielding layer.

[0011] The overlapping area is defined as the point where the light-emitting opening and the non-light-emitting area of ​​the light-shielding layer overlap each other, and the uneven portion is in the overlapping area and does not overlap with the light-shielding pattern.

[0012] Each protrusion has a planar area in the planar diagram, and the planar area decreases in the direction from the pixel-defining film to the reflection control layer.

[0013] Among the protrusions within the uneven portion, the pitch between adjacent protrusions and the width of each protrusion are each between 0.5 micrometers and 2 micrometers.

[0014] The display device further includes a spacer between the pixel defining film and the common electrode, the spacer being coplanar with the protrusions, overlapping the non-light-emitting area, and having a thickness along the thickness direction of the display device, wherein the thickness of each protrusion is less than the thickness of the spacer.

[0015] The thickness of each protrusion is more than 1 micrometer smaller than the thickness of the spacer.

[0016] The protrusions and spacers are corresponding patterns of the same material layer.

[0017] The pixel-limiting film defines the raised layer of uneven areas.

[0018] The pixel defining film includes an inclined surface that defines a light-emitting area and contacts a pixel electrode, and protrusions are arranged along the inclined surface.

[0019] The encapsulation layer includes a first encapsulation layer, a second encapsulation layer disposed on the first encapsulation layer, and a third encapsulation layer disposed on the second encapsulation layer. The first and third encapsulation layers include inorganic materials, the second encapsulation layer includes organic materials, and the second encapsulation layer defines a raised layer of uneven portions.

[0020] The display device further includes a touch sensing layer disposed between the encapsulation layer and the reflection control layer, wherein the touch sensing layer includes touch electrodes and a touch insulating layer, and the touch insulating layer defines a raised layer of uneven portions.

[0021] The display device further includes a touch sensing layer between the encapsulation layer and the reflection control layer.

[0022] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a display device includes: a substrate including display areas and non-display areas adjacent to each other; a pixel defining film dividing adjacent light-emitting areas and non-light-emitting areas within the display areas; a pixel electrode in the light-emitting area and overlapping the pixel defining film; a light-emitting layer on the pixel electrode; a common electrode on the pixel defining film and the light-emitting layer; an encapsulation layer on the common electrode; and a touch sensing layer on the encapsulation layer, the touch sensing layer including: a touch insulating layer; and a first uneven portion including a first protrusion layer that overlaps with the non-light-emitting area and does not overlap with the light-emitting area.

[0023] The first uneven portion of the touch sensing layer further includes: a first groove that overlaps with the non-light-emitting area, and a first protrusion arranged along the first groove.

[0024] In the planar view, the first uneven portion of the touch sensing layer surrounds the light-emitting area.

[0025] The first protrusion is defined by the touch insulation layer.

[0026] The display device further includes a color filter layer on the touch sensing layer, the color filter layer including a light-shielding pattern overlapping the non-light-emitting area and a color filter overlapping the light-emitting area.

[0027] The first uneven portion of the touch sensing layer further includes: a first groove that overlaps with the non-light-emitting area, and a first protrusion arranged along the first groove; and the color filter includes: a second uneven portion including a second groove that overlaps with the first groove and a second protrusion arranged along the second groove and overlapping the first protrusion.

[0028] The width of the second groove is less than the width of the first groove, the depth of the second groove is less than the depth of the first groove, the width of each second protrusion is greater than the width of each first protrusion, and the height of each second protrusion is less than the height of each first protrusion.

[0029] The display device further includes a polarizing element on the touch sensing layer.

[0030] Other features and embodiments may be apparent from the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. [Beneficial Effects]

[0031] The display device according to the embodiment can reduce the reflection of external light and improve the black perception by providing a plurality of protrusions on at least one of a pixel defining film, a touch insulating layer or a color filter between the light-shielding pattern and the light-emitting area in a plan view.

[0032] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to the examples described above, and many more effects are included in this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic plan view of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0034] Figure 2 This is a perspective view illustrating the folded state of a foldable display device according to an embodiment.

[0035] Figure 3 This is an example Figure 2 A perspective view of the unfolded state of the foldable display device.

[0036] Figure 4 This is a perspective view illustrating a display device included in an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0037] Figure 5 It is viewed from one side. Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the display device.

[0038] Figure 6 This is a plan view illustrating the display layer of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0039] Figure 7 This is a plan view illustrating the touch sensing layer of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0040] Figure 8 This is a plan view illustrating the arrangement of the light-emitting areas in the display area of ​​a display device according to an embodiment.

[0041] Figure 9 This is an example set in Figure 8 A plan view showing the arrangement of color filters in the display area.

[0042] Figure 10 It is along Figure 8 The cross-sectional view taken from line Q1-Q1'.

[0043] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the peripheral region of the third light-emitting region of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0044] Figure 12 This is a plan view illustrating the peripheral region of the third light-emitting region of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0045] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the peripheral region of the third light-emitting region of a display device according to another embodiment.

[0046] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the peripheral region of the third light-emitting region of a display device according to yet another embodiment.

[0047] Figure 15 This is a plan view illustrating the peripheral region of the third light-emitting region of a display device according to yet another embodiment.

[0048] Figure 16 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a display device according to yet another embodiment.

[0049] Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the peripheral region of the third light-emitting region of a display device according to yet another embodiment.

[0050] Figure 18 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a display device according to yet another embodiment.

[0051] Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the peripheral region of the third light-emitting region of a display device according to yet another embodiment.

[0052] Figure 20 This is an example Figure 19 A plan view of the area surrounding the third luminescent region.

[0053] Figure 21 It is a perspective view schematically illustrating the first groove and the first protrusion touching the insulating layer.

[0054] Figure 22 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a display device according to yet another embodiment.

[0055] Figure 23 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a display device according to yet another embodiment.

[0056] Figure 24 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a display device according to yet another embodiment.

[0057] Figure 25 This is a graph illustrating the SCE reflectance of display panel samples 1 to 4 according to the wavelength band, based on the first experimental example.

[0058] Figure 26This is a chart illustrating the reflective color perception of black in display panel samples 1 to 4 according to the first experimental example.

[0059] Figure 27 This is a graph illustrating the SCE color coordinate system of display panel sample 5 according to the second experimental example.

[0060] Figure 28 This is a graph illustrating the SCE color coordinate system of display panel sample 6 according to the second experimental example.

[0061] Figure 29 This is a graph illustrating the SCE color coordinate system of display panel sample 7 according to the second experimental example.

[0062] Figure 30 This is a chart illustrating the reflective color perception of black for display panel samples 5 to 7 according to the second experimental example. Detailed Implementation

[0063] The advantages and features of the present invention, as well as the methods for implementing these advantages and features, will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but can be implemented in various different forms. Embodiments are provided so that the disclosure of the invention is complete and fully conveys the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. The invention is defined only by the scope of the claims.

[0064] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on" another element or layer, it may be disposed directly on the other element or layer, or one or more intervening layers or elements may be disposed between them. Similarly, terms such as "below," "left," and "right" are intended to cover both cases where elements are directly adjacent to each other or where one or more intervening layers or materials are disposed between them. Throughout the drawings and description, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements.

[0065] Although terms such as "first" and "second" can be used to describe various elements, such elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, within the spirit and scope of the invention, a first element may be referred to as a second element.

[0066] In the following description, exemplary embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0067] Figure 1 This is a schematic plan view of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0068] refer to Figure 1Electronic device 1 displays moving or still images. Electronic device 1 can refer to any electronic device that provides a display screen. For example, electronic device 1 can include televisions, laptops, monitors, billboards, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, mobile phones, smartphones, tablet PCs, electronic watches, smartwatches, smartphones, head-mounted displays, mobile communication terminals, electronic notebooks, e-books, portable multimedia players (PMPs), navigation systems, game consoles, digital cameras, and camcorders, etc.

[0069] Electronic device 1 may include a display device that provides a display screen ( Figure 4 (10 in the text). Examples of display devices may include inorganic light-emitting diode (LED) display devices, organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display devices, quantum dot (QD) light-emitting diode (OLED) display devices, plasma display devices, and field emission display devices. In the following description, an OLED display device is exemplified as an example of a display device; however, this disclosure is not limited thereto and can be applied to other display devices, provided that the same technical concept is applicable.

[0070] The shape of electronic device 1 can be varied. For example, electronic device 1 can have shapes such as a rectangle with a long width, a rectangle with a long length, a square, a quadrilateral with rounded corners (rounded vertices), other polygons, or circles. The shape of the display area DA of electronic device 1 can also be similar to the overall shape of electronic device 1. Figure 1 In the example shown is an electronic device 1 having a rectangular shape with a long length in the second direction DR2.

[0071] Electronic device 1 may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA. The display area DA is the area in which an image can be displayed, and the non-display area NDA is the area in which no image is displayed. The display area DA may also be referred to as the active area, and the non-display area NDA may also be referred to as the inactive area. The display area DA may generally occupy the center of electronic device 1.

[0072] Figure 2 This is a perspective view illustrating the folded state of a foldable display device according to an embodiment. Figure 3 This is an example Figure 2 A perspective view of the unfolded state of the foldable display device.

[0073] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 According to an embodiment, the electronic device 1 can be a foldable display device. The foldable electronic device 1 can be folded about a folding axis FL. The display area DA can be located on the outer and / or inner side of the foldable electronic device 1. In one embodiment, Figure 2 and Figure 3The foldable electronic device 1 is illustrated by display areas DA being located on the outer and inner sides respectively.

[0074] The display area DA can be located on the outer side of the electronic device 1. The outer surface of the folded electronic device 1 can include the display area DA, and the inner surface of the unfolded electronic device 1 can include the display area DA.

[0075] Figure 4 This is a perspective view illustrating a display device included in an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0076] refer to Figure 4 The electronic device 1 according to the embodiment may include a display device 10. The display device 10 can provide an image displayed by the electronic device 1. The display device 10 may have a planar shape similar to the planar shape of the electronic device 1. For example, the display device 10 may have a shape similar to a rectangle having a short side in a first direction DR1 and a long side in a second direction DR2. The corners where the short side in the first direction DR1 and the long side in the second direction DR2 intersect may be rounded to have curvature, but are not limited thereto, and may also be formed at right angles. The planar shape of the display device 10 is not limited to a quadrilateral, and may be formed similarly to other polygons, circles, or ellipses.

[0077] The display device 10 may include a display panel 100, a display driver 200, a circuit board 300, and a touch driver 400.

[0078] Display panel 100 may include a main region MA and a sub-region SBA, which is a planar area of ​​display panel 100 other than the main region MA. The main region MA may include a portion of the non-display region NDA, and the sub-region SBA may include the remaining portion of the non-display region NDA. Display panel 100 may be bendable or foldable at the sub-region SBA. The sub-region SBA may be a foldable area of ​​display device 10. The main region MA may be a non-foldable area of ​​display device 10.

[0079] The main area MA may include a display area DA containing pixels for displaying an image and a non-display area NDA disposed around the display area DA. The display area DA may emit light from multiple light-emitting areas or multiple opening areas. For example, the display panel 100 may include pixel circuitry containing switching elements, a pixel defining film defining the light-emitting area or the opening area, and self-emissive elements.

[0080] For example, a self-emissive element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of organic light-emitting diodes (LEDs) containing an organic light-emitting layer, quantum dot LEDs containing a quantum dot light-emitting layer, inorganic LEDs containing inorganic semiconductors, and micro LEDs.

[0081] The non-display area NDA can be a region outside the display area DA. The non-display area NDA can be defined as the edge region of the main area MA of the display panel 100. The boundary can be defined between the display area DA and the non-display area NDA. The non-display area NDA may include a gate driver (not shown) that supplies gate signals to the gate lines and a fan-out line (not shown) connecting the display driver 200 and the display area DA.

[0082] The sub-region SBA can be a region extending from one side of the main region MA. The sub-region SBA can include a flexible material that can be bent, folded, rolled, etc. For example, when the sub-region SBA is bent, it can overlap with the main region MA in the thickness direction (third direction DR3). The sub-region SBA can include a display driver 200 and pad portions connected to the circuit board 300. In another embodiment, the sub-region SBA can be omitted, and the display driver 200 and pad portions can be located in the non-display area NDA.

[0083] The display driver 200 can output signals and voltages for driving the display panel 100. The display driver 200 can supply data voltage to data lines. The display driver 200 can supply power voltage to power lines and can supply gate control signals to the gate driver. The display driver 200 can be formed as an integrated circuit (IC) and mounted on the display panel 100 by a chip-on-glass (COG) method, a chip-on-plastic (COP) method, or an ultrasonic bonding method. For example, the display driver 200 can be disposed in a sub-region SBA and can overlap with the main region MA in the thickness direction by bending the sub-region SBA. As another example, the display driver 200 can be mounted on a circuit board 300.

[0084] The circuit board 300 can be attached to the pad portion of the display panel 100 using an anisotropic conductive film (ACF). Leads of the circuit board 300 can be electrically connected to the pad portion of the display panel 100. The circuit board 300 can be a flexible printed circuit board, a printed circuit board, or a flexible film such as a chip-on-film.

[0085] The touch driver 400 can be mounted on the circuit board 300. The touch driver 400 can be connected to the touch sensing unit of the display panel 100. The touch driver 400 can supply touch drive signals to multiple touch electrodes of the touch sensing unit and can sense the change in capacitance between the multiple touch electrodes. For example, the touch drive signal can be a pulse signal with a predetermined frequency. The touch driver 400 can calculate whether an input has been made and the input coordinates based on the change in capacitance between the multiple touch electrodes. The touch driver 400 can be formed as an integrated circuit (IC).

[0086] Figure 5It is viewed from one side. Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the display device.

[0087] refer to Figure 5 The display panel 100 may include a display layer DU, a touch sensing layer TSU, and a color filter layer CFL. The display layer DU may include a substrate SUB, a thin film transistor layer TFTL, a light-emitting element layer EML, and a packaging layer TFEL.

[0088] The substrate SUB can be a base substrate or a base member. The substrate SUB can be a flexible substrate that can be bent, folded, rolled, etc. For example, the substrate SUB can include a polymer resin such as polyimide (PI), but is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the substrate SUB can include a glass material or a metal material.

[0089] A thin-film transistor layer (TFTL) can be disposed on a substrate. The TFTL may include multiple thin-film transistors constituting pixel circuitry. The TFTL may further include gate lines, data lines, power lines, gate control lines, fan-out lines connecting the display driver 200 and the data lines, and leads connecting the display driver 200 and the pad portion. Each of the thin-film transistors may include a semiconductor region, a source electrode, a drain electrode, and a gate electrode. For example, when a gate driver is formed on one side of the non-display area NDA of the display panel 100, the gate driver may include a thin-film transistor.

[0090] The thin-film transistor layer (TFTL) can be disposed in the display area (DA), the non-display area (NDA), and the sub-area (SBA). The thin-film transistors, gate lines, data lines, and power lines of each pixel of the TFTL can be disposed in the display area (DA). The gate control lines and fan-out lines of the TFTL can be disposed in the non-display area (NDA). The leads of the TFTL can be disposed in the sub-area (SBA).

[0091] The light-emitting element layer (EML) can be disposed on the thin-film transistor layer (TFTL). The EML may include multiple light-emitting elements comprising a pixel electrode, a common electrode, and a light-emitting layer, as well as a pixel defining film defining the pixel. The multiple light-emitting elements of the EML can be disposed within the display area (DA).

[0092] In one embodiment, the light-emitting layer may be an organic light-emitting layer comprising organic materials. The light-emitting layer may include a hole transport layer, an organic light-emitting layer, and an electron transport layer. When the pixel electrode receives voltage through the thin-film transistor of the thin-film transistor layer (TFTL) and the common electrode receives a cathode voltage, holes and electrons can move to the organic light-emitting layer through the hole transport layer and the electron transport layer, respectively, and can recombine with each other in the organic light-emitting layer to emit light.

[0093] In another embodiment, the light-emitting element may include a quantum dot light-emitting diode containing a quantum dot light-emitting layer, an inorganic light-emitting diode containing inorganic semiconductors, or a micro light-emitting diode.

[0094] The encapsulation layer TFEL can cover the top and side surfaces of the light-emitting element layer EML and can protect the light-emitting element layer EML. The encapsulation layer TFEL may include at least one inorganic film and at least one organic film for encapsulating the light-emitting element layer EML.

[0095] The touch sensing layer (TSU) can be disposed on the encapsulation layer (TFEL). The touch sensing layer (TSU) may include multiple touch electrodes for detecting user touches using a capacitive method, and touch lines connecting the multiple touch electrodes and the touch driver 400. For example, the touch sensing layer (TSU) can sense user touches using a mutual capacitance method or a self-capacitance method.

[0096] In another embodiment, the touch sensing layer TSU can be disposed on a separate substrate, which is disposed on the display layer DU. In this case, the substrate supporting the touch sensing layer TSU can be a base member that encapsulates the display layer DU.

[0097] Multiple touch electrodes of the touch sensing layer (TSU) can be positioned in the touch sensor area overlapping the display area (DA). Touch lines of the touch sensing layer (TSU) can be positioned in the touch periphery area overlapping the non-display area (NDA).

[0098] A color filter layer (CFL) can be disposed on the touch sensing layer (TSU). The CFL can include multiple color filters corresponding to each of the multiple light-emitting regions. Each color filter can selectively transmit light of a specific wavelength and block or absorb light of different wavelengths. The CFL can absorb a portion of the light introduced from the outside of the display device 10 to reduce reflected light caused by external light. Therefore, the CFL can prevent color distortion caused by the reflection of external light.

[0099] Since the color filter layer CFL is directly disposed on the touch sensing layer TSU, the display device 10 does not require a separate substrate for the color filter layer CFL. Therefore, the display device 10 can have a relatively small thickness.

[0100] Figure 6 This is a plan view illustrating the display layer of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0101] refer to Figure 6 The display layer DU can include the display area DA and the non-display area NDA.

[0102] The display area DA can be set at the center of the display panel 100. Multiple pixels PX, multiple grid lines GL, multiple data lines DL, and multiple power lines VL can be set in the display area DA. Each of the multiple pixels PX can be defined as the smallest unit of light emission.

[0103] Multiple gate lines GL can supply gate signals received from gate driver 210 to multiple pixels PX. The multiple gate lines GL can extend in a first direction DR1 and can be spaced apart from each other in a second direction DR2 that intersects the first direction DR1.

[0104] Multiple data lines DL can supply data voltage received from the display driver 200 to multiple pixels PX. The multiple data lines DL can extend in the second direction DR2 and can be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1.

[0105] Multiple power lines VL can supply power voltage received from the display driver 200 to multiple pixels PX. Here, the power voltage can be at least one of a drive voltage, an initialization voltage, a reference voltage, and a low-potential voltage. The multiple power lines VL can extend in the second direction DR2 and can be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1.

[0106] The non-display area NDA can surround the display area DA. The gate driver 210, fan-out line FOL, and gate control line GCL can be set in the non-display area NDA. The gate driver 210 can generate multiple gate signals based on the gate control signal, and can sequentially supply multiple gate signals to multiple gate lines GL according to a set order.

[0107] The fan-out line FOL can extend from the display driver 200 to the display area DA. The fan-out line FOL can supply data voltage received from the display driver 200 to multiple data lines DL.

[0108] The gate control line GCL can extend from the display driver 200 to the gate driver 210. The gate control line GCL can supply the gate control signal received from the display driver 200 to the gate driver 210.

[0109] The sub-region SBA may include a display driver 200, a pad area PA, a first touch pad area TPA1, and a second touch pad area TPA2.

[0110] The display driver 200 can output signals and voltages to the fan-out line FOL for driving the display panel 100. The display driver 200 can supply data voltage to the data line DL via the fan-out line FOL. The data voltage can be supplied to multiple pixels PX, and the brightness of the multiple pixels PX can be controlled. The display driver 200 can supply gate control signals to the gate driver 210 via the gate control line GCL.

[0111] Pad area PA, first touch pad area TPA1, and second touch pad area TPA2 can be located at the edge of sub-area SBA. Circuit board 300 can be electrically connected to display panel 100 using materials such as anisotropic conductive film or self-assembling anisotropic conductive paste (SAP) at pad area PA, first touch pad area TPA1, and second touch pad area TPA2. First touch pad area TPA1 includes a first touch pad portion TP1, and second touch pad area TPA2 includes a second touch pad portion TP2; first touch pad area TPA1 and second touch pad area TPA2 can be electrically connected to circuit board 300.

[0112] The pad area PA can include multiple display pad portions DP. These multiple display pad portions DP can be connected to the graphics system via circuit board 300. The multiple display pad portions DP can be connected to circuit board 300 to receive digital video data and to supply digital video data to the display driver 200.

[0113] Figure 7 This is a plan view illustrating the touch sensing layer of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0114] refer to Figure 7 The touch sensing layer TSU may include a touch sensor area TSA for sensing user touches and a touch peripheral area TOA disposed around the touch sensor area TSA. The touch sensor area TSA may be disposed in the display area DA of the display device 10, and the touch peripheral area TOA may be disposed in the non-display area NDA of the display device 10.

[0115] The touch sensor area (TSA) may include multiple touch electrodes (SENs) and multiple dummy electrodes (DMEs). The multiple touch electrodes (SENs) can form mutual capacitance or self-capacitance to sense the touch of an object or person. The multiple touch electrodes (SENs) may include multiple drive electrodes (TEs), multiple sensing electrodes (REs), and a bridging electrode (CE).

[0116] Multiple driving electrodes TE can be arranged along a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2. The multiple driving electrodes TE can be spaced apart from each other along the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. Driving electrodes TE that are adjacent to each other along the second direction DR2 can be electrically connected to each other via a bridging electrode CE.

[0117] Multiple driving electrodes TE can be connected to the first touch pad portion TP1 via driving lines TL. The driving lines TL may include a lower driving line TLa and an upper driving line TLb. For example, a driving electrode TE located on the lower side of the touch sensor area TSA can be connected to the first touch pad portion TP1 via the lower driving line TLa, and a driving electrode TE located on the upper side of the touch sensor area TSA can be connected to the first touch pad portion TP1 via the upper driving line TLb. The lower driving line TLa can pass under the touch peripheral area TOA and extend to the first touch pad portion TP1. The upper driving line TLb can extend to the first touch pad portion TP1 via the upper, left, and lower sides of the touch peripheral area TOA. The first touch pad portion TP1 can be connected to the touch driver 400 via the circuit board 300.

[0118] The bridging electrode CE can be bent at least once. For example, the bridging electrode CE can have a clip shape ("<" or ">"), but the planar shape of the bridging electrode CE is not limited to this. Adjacent drive electrodes TE in the second direction DR2 can be connected to each other through multiple bridging electrodes CE, and even if any one of the bridging electrodes CE is disconnected, the drive electrodes TE can be stably connected to each other through the remaining bridging electrodes CE. Adjacent drive electrodes TE can be connected to each other through two bridging electrodes CE, but the number of bridging electrodes CE is not limited to this.

[0119] The bridging electrode CE can be disposed on a different layer than the multiple driving electrodes TE and the multiple sensing electrodes RE. When on the same layer, the components can be formed in the same process and / or comprise the same material as each other, the components can be corresponding portions of the same material layer to be considered to be on the same layer, the components can be on the same layer by forming an interface with the same lower or upper layer, etc., and are not limited thereto.

[0120] In the first direction DR1, adjacent sensing electrodes RE can be electrically connected to each other through a connection portion disposed on the same layer as multiple driving electrodes TE or multiple sensing electrodes RE. Similarly, in the second direction DR2, adjacent driving electrodes TE can be electrically connected to each other through a bridging electrode CE disposed on a different layer than multiple driving electrodes TE or multiple sensing electrodes RE. Therefore, even if the bridging electrode CE overlaps with multiple sensing electrodes RE in the Z-axis direction, the multiple driving electrodes TE and multiple sensing electrodes RE can be insulated from each other. Mutual capacitance can be formed between the driving electrodes TE and the sensing electrodes RE.

[0121] Multiple sensing electrodes RE can extend along a first direction DR1 and can be spaced apart from each other along a second direction DR2. The multiple sensing electrodes RE can be arranged along the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2, and sensing electrodes RE adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1 can be electrically connected to each other through a connecting portion.

[0122] Multiple sensing electrodes RE can be connected to the second touch pad portion TP2 via sensing lines RL. For example, a sensing electrode RE located to the right of the touch sensor area TSA can be connected to the second touch pad portion TP2 via sensing lines RL. The sensing lines RL can extend to the second touch pad portion TP2 via the right and bottom sides of the touch peripheral area TOA. The second touch pad portion TP2 can be connected to the touch driver 400 via the circuit board 300.

[0123] Each of the plurality of dummy electrodes (DMEs) may be surrounded by a drive electrode (TE) or a sensing electrode (RE). Each of the plurality of dummy electrodes (DMEs) may be spaced apart from and insulated from the drive electrode (TE) or the sensing electrode (RE). Accordingly, the dummy electrode (DME) may be electrically floating. The dummy electrode (DME) may be a discrete pattern, such as an island shape having an electrical insulation from the touch electrode (SEN).

[0124] The pad area PA, the first touch pad area TPA1, and the second touch pad area TPA2 can be located at the edge of the sub-area SBA. The pad area PA, the first touch pad area TPA1, and the second touch pad area TPA2 can be electrically connected to the circuit board 300 using low-resistance, high-reliability materials such as anisotropic conductive film or self-assembling anisotropic conductive paste (SAP).

[0125] The first touch pad area TPA1 can be located on one side of the pad area PA, and can include multiple first touch pad portions TP1. The multiple first touch pad portions TP1 can be electrically connected to a touch driver 400 located on the circuit board 300. The multiple first touch pad portions TP1 can supply touch drive signals to multiple drive electrodes TE through multiple drive lines TL.

[0126] The second touch pad area TPA2 can be located on the other side of the pad area PA, and can include multiple second touch pad portions TP2. The multiple second touch pad portions TP2 can be electrically connected to a touch driver 400 located on the circuit board 300. The touch driver 400 can receive touch sensing signals through multiple sensing lines RL connected to the multiple second touch pad portions TP2, and can sense changes in the mutual capacitance between the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE.

[0127] In one embodiment, the touch driver 400 can supply touch driving signals to each of a plurality of driving electrodes TE and a plurality of sensing electrodes RE, and can receive touch sensing signals from each of the plurality of driving electrodes TE and a plurality of sensing electrodes RE. The touch driver 400 can sense the amount of charge change in each of the plurality of driving electrodes TE and a plurality of sensing electrodes RE based on the touch sensing signals.

[0128] exist Figure 7 The example illustrates a plurality of touch electrodes SENs of a touch sensing layer TSU having a diamond-shaped structure and connected in a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2, but this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the plurality of touch electrodes SENs may be formed in a grid shape.

[0129] Figure 8 This is a plan view illustrating the arrangement of the light-emitting areas in the display area of ​​a display device according to an embodiment. Figure 9 This is an example set in Figure 8 A plan view showing the arrangement of color filters in the display area.

[0130] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 The display device 10 may include a plurality of pixels PX1, PX2, and PX3 disposed in a display area DA, and light-emitting areas EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 and a non-light-emitting area NEA disposed in each of the pixels PX1, PX2, and PX3. The plurality of pixels PX1, PX2, and PX3 may be arranged along a fourth direction DR4 and a fifth direction DR5 between a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2. The first pixel PX1, the second pixel PX2, and the third pixel PX3 may be alternately disposed along the fourth direction DR4 and the fifth direction DR5. For example, based on the first pixel PX1, the second pixel PX2 and the third pixel PX3 may be arranged along the fourth direction DR4 and the fifth direction DR5. The plurality of pixels PX1, PX2, and PX3 may be disposed in the display area DA in a PenTile™ type, such as a diamond PenTile™ type. However, the arrangement of pixels PX1, PX2, and PX3 is not limited to this arrangement. Figure 8 and Figure 9 The arrangement is illustrated in the figure. In some embodiments, the plurality of pixels PX1, PX2 and PX3 may be arranged in a linear or island pattern.

[0131] Each of pixels PX1, PX2, and PX3 may include a first light-emitting region EA1, a second light-emitting region EA2, a third light-emitting region EA3, and a fourth light-emitting region EA4 that emit light of different colors. Unlike the first and second light-emitting regions EA1 and EA2, the third and fourth light-emitting regions EA3 and EA4 may emit light of the same color. The first to fourth light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 may emit red, blue, or green light, respectively, and the color of the light emitted from each of the light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 may depend on the light-emitting element disposed in the light-emitting element layer EML. Figure 10 The type of "ED" in the text varies, as will be described later. In one embodiment, the first emitting region EA1 can emit a first red light, the second emitting region EA2 can emit a second blue light, and the third emitting region EA3 and the fourth emitting region EA4 can emit a third green light. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0132] Multiple light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 can be configured in a PenTile™ configuration, such as a diamond PenTile™ type. For example, within each of pixels PX1, PX2, and PX3, the first light-emitting region EA1 and the second light-emitting region EA2 can be spaced apart from each other in a first direction DR1, and the third light-emitting region EA3 and the fourth light-emitting region EA4 can be spaced apart from each other in a second direction DR2. The first light-emitting region EA1 can be spaced apart from the third light-emitting region EA3 in a fifth direction DR5, and can also be spaced apart from the fourth light-emitting region EA4 in a fourth direction DR4. The second light-emitting region EA2 can be spaced apart from the third light-emitting region EA3 in a fourth direction DR4, and can also be spaced apart from the fourth light-emitting region EA4 in a fifth direction DR5.

[0133] In multiple pixels PX1, PX2, and PX3, multiple first to fourth light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 can be alternately arranged along the fourth direction DR4 or the fifth direction DR5. For example, multiple light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 can be arranged in rows R1, R2, R3, and R4 along the fourth direction DR4 and columns C1, C2, C3, and C4 along the fifth direction DR5. In the first row R1 and the third row R3, the second light-emitting region EA2 and the third light-emitting region EA3 can be arranged to alternate along the fourth direction DR4. In the second row R2 and the fourth row R4, the first light-emitting region EA1 and the fourth light-emitting region EA4 can be arranged to alternate along the fourth direction DR4. In the first column C1 and the third column C3, the second light-emitting region EA2 and the fourth light-emitting region EA4 can be arranged to alternate along the fifth direction DR5. In the second column C2 and the fourth column C4, the first light-emitting region EA1 and the third light-emitting region EA3 can be arranged to alternate along the fourth direction DR4.

[0134] Alternatively, multiple light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 can be arranged along a first direction DR1 or a second direction DR2. The first light-emitting region EA1 and the second light-emitting region EA2 can be configured to alternate along the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. The third light-emitting region EA3 and the fourth light-emitting region EA4 can be configured to alternate along the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0135] Each of the first to fourth light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 can be defined by a pixel-defined film formed on the light-emitting element layer EML. Figure 10 The pixel-defining film (PDL) is defined by multiple openings OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, and OPE4, which will be described later. For example, a first light-emitting region EA1 may be defined by a first opening OPE1 of the pixel-defining film, a second light-emitting region EA2 may be defined by a second opening OPE2 of the pixel-defining film, a third light-emitting region EA3 may be defined by a third opening OPE3 of the pixel-defining film, and a fourth light-emitting region EA4 may be defined by a fourth opening OPE4 of the pixel-defining film.

[0136] In one embodiment, the areas or sizes of the first to fourth light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 may be different. Figure 8In this embodiment, the area of ​​the second light-emitting region EA2 can be larger than the area of ​​the first light-emitting region EA1, the third light-emitting region EA3, and the fourth light-emitting region EA4, and the area of ​​the first light-emitting region EA1 can be larger than the area of ​​the third light-emitting region EA3 and the fourth light-emitting region EA4. The areas of the light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 can vary according to the size of the openings OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, and OPE4 formed in the pixel defining film. The intensity of the light emitted from the light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 can vary depending on the area of ​​the light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4, and the color of the image displayed on the display device 10 or electronic device 1 can be controlled by adjusting the areas of the light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4. Figure 8 In the embodiment shown, the second light-emitting region EA2 has the largest area, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. The areas of the light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 can be freely adjusted according to the color of the image required by the display device 10 and the electronic device 1. In addition, the areas of the light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 can be related to the luminous efficiency and lifespan of the light-emitting element ED, and can be adjusted in consideration of the reflection of external light. The areas of the light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 can be adjusted to take these issues into account.

[0137] In addition, the multiple openings OPE1, OPE2, OPE3 and OPE4 and the multiple light emitting portions OPT1, OPT2, OPT3 and OPT4 are illustrated and described in a circular shape, but are not limited thereto, and can be applied in various ways such as elliptical shapes or polygonal structures with curved edges.

[0138] Each of the plurality of pixels PX1, PX2, and PX3 may include first to fourth light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 arranged adjacent to each other, and may represent white grayscale. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the combination of light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 constituting a pixel group can be modified in various ways depending on the arrangement of the light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 and the color of the light emitted from them.

[0139] The non-emissive region NEA can be the remaining area other than the emissive regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4. The non-emissive region NEA can be located between the emissive regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4. The non-emissive region NEA can overlap with the pixel-defining film. For example, the non-emissive region NEA can be the same area as the pixel-defining film.

[0140] The display device 10 may include a plurality of color filters CF1, CF2, CF3, and CF4 disposed on the light-emitting areas EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4. The plurality of color filters CF1, CF2, CF3, and CF4 may be configured to correspond to the light-emitting areas EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4. For example, the color filters CF1, CF2, CF3, and CF4 may be configured to overlap with the light-emitting areas EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4, or the openings OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, and OPE4, or the plurality of light-emitting portions OPT1, OPT2, OPT3, and OPT4. The plurality of light-emitting portions OPT1, OPT2, OPT3, and OPT4 may be formed by a light-shielding pattern (…). Figure 10 The "BM" division in the diagram can be formed to overlap with openings OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, and OPE4, and can form a light emission region where light emitted from light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 is emitted. Color filters CF1, CF2, CF3, and CF4 can have areas larger than the light emission portions OPT1, OPT2, OPT3, and OPT4, as well as the areas of openings OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, and OPE4, and can completely cover the light emission region formed by the light emission portions OPT1, OPT2, OPT3, and OPT4.

[0141] Color filters CF1, CF2, CF3, and CF4 can be configured to correspond to different emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4, respectively. Color filters CF1, CF2, CF3, and CF4 can include a first color filter CF1, a second color filter CF2, a third color filter CF3, and a fourth color filter CF4. Color filters CF1, CF2, CF3, and CF4 can include colorants (such as dyes or pigments) that absorb light in wavelength bands other than specific wavelength bands, and can be configured to correspond to the colors of the light emitted from emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4.

[0142] For example, the first color filter CF1 can be a red color filter configured to overlap with the first emitting region EA1 and transmit only red light. The second color filter CF2 can be a blue color filter configured to overlap with the second emitting region EA2 and transmit only blue light. The third color filter CF3 can be configured to overlap with the third emitting region EA3, and the fourth color filter CF4 can be configured to overlap with the fourth emitting region EA4. The third color filter CF3 and the fourth color filter CF4 can be green color filters that transmit only green light.

[0143] The first color filter CF1 can be configured to overlap with the first luminous area EA1, but not with the second, third, and fourth luminous areas EA2, EA3, and EA4. The second color filter CF2 can be configured to overlap with the second luminous area EA2, but not with the first, third, and fourth luminous areas EA1, EA3, and EA4. The third color filter CF3 can be configured to overlap with the third luminous area EA3, but not with the first, second, and fourth luminous areas EA1, EA2, and EA4. The fourth color filter CF4 can be configured to overlap with the fourth luminous area EA4, but not with the first, second, and third luminous areas EA1, EA2, and EA3.

[0144] The display device 10 can control the color of reflected light caused by external light by adjusting the arrangement, shape, and area of ​​color filters CF1, CF2, CF3, and CF4 in a plan view. In one embodiment, for example, the reflection control layer includes color filters overlapping the luminescent area and a light-shielding layer including a light-shielding pattern BM that overlaps with the non-luminescent area and divides the light-emitting opening (e.g., a light-emitting portion) of the light-shielding layer that overlaps with the luminescent area. Here, the protrusion PRJ of the uneven portion UEP further overlaps with the light-emitting opening of the light-shielding layer.

[0145] The touch electrode SEN can be disposed between the light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4. The touch electrode SEN can be configured to extend along the fourth direction DR4 and the fifth direction DR5, and can be non-overlapping with and spaced apart from the light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4. The touch electrode SEN can be configured to be adjacent to a pixel-defining film including openings OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, and OPE4. Figure 10 The term "PDL" in the text refers to the light-shielding layer comprising multiple light-emitting sections OPT1, OPT2, OPT3, and OPT4, which will be described later. Figure 10 The “BM” in the text overlaps. Although in Figure 8 The image briefly illustrates a touch electrode SEN, but a touch electrode SEN can be any type of electrode. Figure 7 The touch driving electrode TE or sensing electrode RE.

[0146] Figure 10 It is along Figure 8 The cross-sectional view taken from line Q1-Q1'. Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the peripheral region of the third light-emitting region of a display device according to an embodiment. Figure 12 This is a plan view illustrating the peripheral region of the third light-emitting region of a display device according to an embodiment. Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the peripheral region of the third light-emitting region of a display device according to another embodiment. Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the peripheral region of the third light-emitting region of a display device according to yet another embodiment. Figure 15 This is a plan view illustrating the peripheral region of the third light-emitting region of a display device according to yet another embodiment. Figure 16 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a display device according to yet another embodiment. Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the peripheral region of the third light-emitting region of a display device according to yet another embodiment.

[0147] refer to Figures 10 to 12 Together Figure 8 and Figure 9 According to an embodiment, the display panel 100 of the display device 10 may include a display layer DU, a touch sensing layer TSU, a color filter layer CFL, and an outer coating OC. The display layer DU may include a substrate SUB, a thin film transistor layer TFTL, a light-emitting element layer EML, and an encapsulation layer TFEL.

[0148] The substrate SUB can be a base substrate or a base member. The substrate SUB can be a flexible substrate that can be bent, folded, rolled, etc. For example, the substrate SUB may include a polymer resin such as polyimide (PI), but is not limited thereto. As another example, the substrate SUB may include glass or metal materials.

[0149] The thin-film transistor layer (TFTL) may include a first buffer layer (BF1), a lower metal layer (BML), a second buffer layer (BF2), a thin-film transistor (TFT), a gate insulating layer (GI), a first interlayer insulating layer (ILD1), a capacitor electrode (CPE), a second interlayer insulating layer (ILD2), a first connection electrode (CNE1), a first passivation layer (PAS1), a second connection electrode (CNE2), and a second passivation layer (PAS2).

[0150] The first buffer layer BF1 may be disposed on the substrate SUB. The first buffer layer BF1 may include an inorganic membrane capable of preventing the penetration of air or moisture. For example, the first buffer layer BF1 may include multiple inorganic membranes stacked alternately.

[0151] The lower metal layer BML can be disposed on the first buffer layer BF1. For example, the lower metal layer BML can be formed by a single layer or multiple layers of any one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), tantalum (Ta) and copper (Cu) or their alloys.

[0152] The second buffer layer BF2 may cover the first buffer layer BF1 and the lower metal layer BML. The second buffer layer BF2 may include an inorganic membrane capable of preventing the penetration of air or moisture. For example, the second buffer layer BF2 may include multiple inorganic membranes stacked alternately.

[0153] Thin-film transistors (TFTs) can be disposed on the second buffer layer BF2 and can constitute the pixel circuit for each of a plurality of pixels. For example, a TFT can be a driving transistor or a switching transistor of a pixel circuit. A TFT may include a semiconductor layer ACT, a source electrode SE, a drain electrode DE, and a gate electrode GE.

[0154] The semiconductor layer ACT can be disposed on the second buffer layer BF2. The semiconductor layer ACT can overlap with the lower metal layer BML and the gate electrode GE in the thickness direction, and can be insulated from the gate electrode GE by the gate insulating layer GI. In a portion of the semiconductor layer ACT, the material of the semiconductor layer ACT can be made into a conductor to form the source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE.

[0155] The gate electrode GE can be disposed on the gate insulating layer GI. The gate electrode GE can overlap with the semiconductor layer ACT, with the gate insulating layer GI located between them.

[0156] The gate insulating layer GI can be disposed on the semiconductor layer ACT. For example, the gate insulating layer GI can cover the semiconductor layer ACT and the second buffer layer BF2, and can insulate the semiconductor layer ACT and the gate electrode GE from each other. The gate insulating layer GI may include a first connection electrode CNE1 through a contact hole that penetrates the gate insulating layer GI.

[0157] The first interlayer insulating layer ILD1 may cover the gate electrode GE and the gate insulating layer GI. The first interlayer insulating layer ILD1 may include a first connection electrode CNE1 through which a contact hole penetrates the first interlayer insulating layer ILD1. The contact hole of the first interlayer insulating layer ILD1 may be connected to the contact hole of the gate insulating layer GI and the contact hole of the second interlayer insulating layer ILD2.

[0158] The capacitor electrode CPE can be disposed on the first interlayer insulating layer ILD1. The capacitor electrode CPE can overlap with the gate electrode GE in the thickness direction. The capacitor electrode CPE and the gate electrode GE can form a capacitor.

[0159] The second interlayer insulating layer ILD2 may cover the capacitor electrode CPE and the first interlayer insulating layer ILD1. The second interlayer insulating layer ILD2 may include a first connection electrode CNE1 through which a contact hole penetrates the second interlayer insulating layer ILD2. The contact hole of the second interlayer insulating layer ILD2 may connect to the contact hole of the first interlayer insulating layer ILD1 and the contact hole of the gate insulating layer GI.

[0160] The first connection electrode CNE1 can be disposed on the second interlayer insulating layer ILD2. The first connection electrode CNE1 can electrically connect the drain electrode DE of the thin-film transistor TFT and the second connection electrode CNE2 to each other. The first connection electrode CNE1 can be inserted into a contact hole formed in the second interlayer insulating layer ILD2, the first interlayer insulating layer ILD1 and the gate insulating layer GI to contact the drain electrode DE of the thin-film transistor TFT.

[0161] The first passivation layer PAS1 can cover the first connection electrode CNE1 and the second interlayer insulating layer ILD2. The first passivation layer PAS1 can protect the thin-film transistor (TFT). The first passivation layer PAS1 can include a second connection electrode CNE2 through which a contact hole penetrates the first passivation layer PAS1.

[0162] The second connection electrode CNE2 can be disposed on the first passivation layer PAS1. The second connection electrode CNE2 can electrically connect the first connection electrode CNE1 and the pixel electrode AE ​​of the light-emitting element ED to each other. The second connection electrode CNE2 can be inserted into the contact hole formed in the first passivation layer PAS1 and can contact the first connection electrode CNE1.

[0163] The second passivation layer PAS2 may cover the second connection electrode CNE2 and the first passivation layer PAS1. The second passivation layer PAS2 may include the pixel electrode AE ​​of the light-emitting element ED through a contact hole penetrating the second passivation layer PAS2.

[0164] The light-emitting element layer (EML) can be disposed on the thin-film transistor layer (TFTL). The EML may include a light-emitting element (ED) and a pixel defining film (PDL). The light-emitting element (ED) may include a pixel electrode (AE), a light-emitting layer (EL), and a common electrode (CO).

[0165] The pixel electrode AE ​​can be disposed on the second passivation layer PAS2. The pixel electrode AE ​​can be configured to overlap with any one of the openings OPE1, OPE2, and OPE3 of the pixel defining film PDL. The pixel electrode AE ​​can be electrically connected to the drain electrode DE of the thin-film transistor TFT via the first connection electrode CNE1 and the second connection electrode CNE2. The pixel electrode AE ​​may include an exposed portion at the corresponding pixel opening in the pixel defining film PDL that is exposed to the outside of the pixel defining film PDL.

[0166] The light-emitting layer EL can be disposed on the pixel electrode AE. For example, the light-emitting layer EL can be an organic light-emitting layer made of organic materials, but is not limited thereto. When the light-emitting layer EL corresponds to the organic light-emitting layer, when the thin-film transistor TFT applies a predetermined voltage to the pixel electrode AE ​​of the light-emitting element ED and the common electrode CO of the light-emitting element ED receives the common voltage or the cathode voltage, holes and electrons can move to the light-emitting layer EL through the hole transport layer and the electron transport layer, respectively, and holes and electrons can recombine with each other in the light-emitting layer EL to emit light.

[0167] A common electrode CO can be disposed on the light-emitting layer EL. For example, the common electrode CO can be implemented as an electrode shared by all pixels, without being segmented for each of the multiple pixels. The common electrode CO can be disposed on the light-emitting layer EL in the first to third light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, and EA3, and can also be disposed on the pixel-defining film PDL in areas other than the first to third light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, and EA3.

[0168] The common electrode CO can receive a common voltage or a low potential voltage. When the pixel electrode AE ​​receives a voltage corresponding to the data voltage and the common electrode CO receives a low potential voltage, the light-emitting layer EL can emit light because a potential difference is formed between the pixel electrode AE ​​and the common electrode CO.

[0169] The pixel-defining film (PDL) may include multiple openings OPE1, OPE2, and OPE3, and may be disposed on a portion of the second passivation layer PAS2 and the pixel electrode AE. The PDL may include a first opening OPE1, a second opening OPE2, and a third opening OPE3, and each of the openings OPE1, OPE2, and OPE3 may expose a portion of the pixel electrode AE. As described above, each of the openings OPE1, OPE2, and OPE3 of the PDL may define a first light-emitting region to a third light-emitting region EA1, EA2, and EA3, and the first light-emitting regions to the third light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, and EA3 may have different areas or sizes. The PDL can separate and insulate the pixel electrodes AE of multiple light-emitting elements (EDs) from each other.

[0170] Pixel-defined films (PDLs) may include light-absorbing materials to prevent light reflection. For example, a pixel-defined film PDL may include a polyimide (PI) binder and pigments mixed therein in red, green, and blue. Alternatively, a pixel-defined film PDL may include a cardool binder resin and a mixture of lactam black and blue pigments. Alternatively, a pixel-defined film PDL may include carbon black.

[0171] Spacer SPCs can be disposed on the pixel-defining film (PDL). Spacer SPCs can be used to prevent damage to the underlying layer during the deposition of the light-emitting layer (EL) due to contact with the mask. Spacer SPCs can be disposed directly on the PDL and can be configured to overlap with the non-light-emitting area (NEA). Spacer SPCs can include organic materials and can be formed with a thickness of 1 μm or greater.

[0172] Simultaneously, the light-emitting element layer (EML) may include an uneven portion (UEP). The uneven portion (UEP) includes multiple protrusions (PRJs) and may include recesses disposed between the multiple protrusions (PRJs). The uneven portion (UEP) may be defined by a layer of multiple protrusions (PRJs). The uneven portion (UEP) may be disposed between the pixel defining film (PDL) and the common electrode (CO), and may be directly configured to contact the upper surface of the pixel defining film (PDL). The uneven portion (UEP) may be configured to overlap with the non-light-emitting region (NEA), and may not overlap with the first to third light-emitting regions (EA1, EA2, and EA3) or the first to third openings (OPE1, OPE2, and OPE3). A portion of the uneven portion (UEP) may be configured to overlap with the first to third light-emitting portions (OPT1, OPT2, and OPT3).

[0173] The uneven portion UEP may include a plurality of protrusions PRJ protruding from the surface of the pixel-defining film PDL in a third direction DR3. The plurality of protrusions PRJ may have a shape in which their area gradually decreases from the surface of the pixel-defining film PDL toward the color filter layer CFL. Figure 10 The width of the protrusion PRJ shown represents the decreasing planar area of ​​the protrusion PRJ along the thickness direction. In one embodiment, for example, each of the protrusion PRJs has a planar area in the plan view, and this planar area decreases in the direction from the pixel defining film PDL to the reflection control layer.

[0174] In a plurality of raised PRJs, even when the material is the same and the refractive index is constant, the refractive index is perceived to decrease as the size (or area) decreases, and the refractive index is also perceived to decrease gradually. For example, light LEL incident on the upper surface of the plurality of raised PRJs is perceived to have a gradually decreasing refractive index as it is transmitted through the plurality of raised PRJs, and therefore, no Fresnel reflection occurs. Accordingly, light LEL incident on the plurality of raised PRJs is transmitted as is without being reflected. In one embodiment, the uneven portion UEP comprising the plurality of raised PRJs may have a moth-eye fine structure.

[0175] The shape of the multiple raised PRJs is not particularly restricted, as long as their area gradually decreases from the surface of the pixel-defined film (PDL) towards the color filter layer (CFL). For example, the multiple raised PRJs can have the following shapes: Figure 10The hexahedral shape shown is not limited to this, and it can also have hemispherical, conical, pyramidal, etc.

[0176] Multiple raised PRJs can be arranged with a pitch P of 0.5 μm to 2 μm to suppress visible light reflection. When the pitch P of the multiple raised PRJs is within the above range, the color difference between reflected light can be reduced, and the reflection of external light can be prevented. The multiple raised PRJs can have a width of 0.5 μm to 2 μm. When the width of the multiple raised PRJs is within the above range, the color difference between reflected light can be reduced, and the reflection of external light can be prevented. Additionally, the multiple raised PRJs can have a thickness of 0.5 μm to 1 μm. When the thickness of the multiple raised PRJs is within the above range, the increase in color difference of reflected light can be prevented. Although in Figure 12 The pitch P and width W are shown along the first direction DR1, but it will be understood that these features can also be defined along another plane direction, such as the second direction DR2.

[0177] In some embodiments, the thickness of the plurality of raised PRJs can be more than 1 μm smaller than the thickness of the spacer SPC. When the thickness of the plurality of raised PRJs is more than 1 μm smaller than the thickness of the spacer SPC, it is possible to prevent the raised PRJs from being damaged by the mask during the deposition of the light-emitting layer EL. In one embodiment, for example, the spacer SPC is coplanar with the raised PRJs and has a thickness along the thickness direction of the display device 10. Here, the thickness of each raised PRJ is less than the thickness of the spacer SPC.

[0178] The first light emitting portion to the third light emitting portion OPT1, OPT2, and OPT3 can be areas where light emitted from the light-emitting element ED and light incident from the outside are reflected and emitted. In the areas where the first light emitting portion to the third light emitting portion OPT1, OPT2, and OPT3 overlap with the non-light-emitting area NEA, light incident from the outside can be reflected by the common electrode CO. The reflected light reflected by the common electrode CO may interfere with other reflected light and may display a specific color while passing through the color filters CF1, CF2, and CF3. Accordingly, the black perception of the display device 10 may be distorted. In this embodiment, by providing a plurality of raised PRJs between the light-shielding pattern BM, which will be described later, and the first light-emitting area to the third light-emitting area EA1, EA2, and EA3, the reflection of light incident from the outside can be reduced, and the black perception can be improved.

[0179] Meanwhile, the uneven portion UEP can be configured to extend further on the inclined surface PDC of the pixel-limiting film PDL.

[0180] refer to Figure 13The pixel-defining film (PDL) may include a tilted surface (PDC) defining the first to third light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, and EA3. The tilted surface (PDC) of the PDL may be the region between the intersection of the pixel electrode AE ​​and the PDL and the portion parallel to the upper surface of the second passivation layer PAS2. The tilted surface (PDC) of the PDL may not overlap with the first to third light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, and EA3, but may overlap with the non-light-emitting region NEA and the first to third light-emitting portions OPT1, OPT2, and OPT3.

[0181] As the cone angle of the tilted surface PDC of the pixel-defining film (PDL) decreases and its area increases, this may lead to more reflection of external light. In this embodiment, by providing multiple protrusions PRJ of the uneven portion UEP on the tilted surface PDC of the pixel-defining film (PDL), the reflection of external light can be further reduced.

[0182] In another embodiment, the uneven portion UEP may extend to and be disposed in the region overlapping with the non-emitting region NEA and the first light emitting portion to the third light emitting portion OPT1, OPT2 and OPT3.

[0183] refer to Figure 14 and Figure 15 The uneven portion UEP can be configured to not overlap with the first to third light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, and EA3, and to overlap with the non-light-emitting region NEA and the first to third light-emitting portions OPT1, OPT2, and OPT3. For example, the plurality of protrusions PRJ can be configured to not overlap with the light-shielding pattern BM in the non-light-emitting region NEA. That is, the display device 10 can include an overlapping region defined in the light-emitting opening of the light-shielding layer (BM+OPT) where the non-light-emitting regions overlap with each other, and the uneven portion UEP is in the overlapping region and does not overlap with the light-shielding pattern BM.

[0184] The areas of the non-emitting region NEA that overlap with the first to third light-emitting portions OPT1, OPT2, and OPT3 are susceptible to the reflection of external light. For example, the areas of the non-emitting region NEA that overlap with the light-shielding pattern BM can block or absorb external light or reflect light through the light-shielding pattern BM. Because reflected light is emitted upwards, the areas of the non-emitting region NEA that do not overlap with the light-shielding pattern BM are susceptible to the reflection of external light.

[0185] In this embodiment, by setting an uneven portion UEP in the area of ​​the non-light-emitting region NEA that does not overlap with the light-shielding pattern BM, or in the area of ​​the non-light-emitting region NEA that overlaps with the first light-emitting portion to the third light-emitting portion OPT1, OPT2 and OPT3, the reflection of light incident from the outside can be reduced, and the black color perception can be further improved.

[0186] The aforementioned raised PRJs can be manufactured in a separate process or together with the spacer SPC. For example, a halftone mask can be used after coating with an organic material to simultaneously pattern and manufacture the spacer SPC and the multiple raised PRJs. That is, as corresponding patterns of the same material layer, the spacer SPC and the raised PRJs can be in the same layer as each other.

[0187] In another embodiment, a plurality of protrusions PRJ can be integrally formed with a pixel-defining film PDL.

[0188] refer to Figure 16 and Figure 17 A pixel-defining film (PDL) may include multiple raised facets (PRJs). These PRJs can be formed integrally with the PDL. For example, a halftone mask can be used to simultaneously form multiple raised facets after coating with an organic material for forming the PDL. In other words, the raised facets and the PDL can be a single, integral unit.

[0189] This embodiment has the advantage of omitting a separate process for forming multiple raised PRJs.

[0190] At the same time, refer to again Figure 10 The encapsulation layer TFEL can be disposed on the common electrode CO to cover multiple light-emitting elements (EDs). The encapsulation layer TFEL may include at least one inorganic film to prevent oxygen or moisture from penetrating into the light-emitting element layer EML. The encapsulation layer TFEL may also include at least one organic film to protect the light-emitting element layer EML from foreign matter such as dust.

[0191] The encapsulation layer TFEL may include a first encapsulation layer TFE1, a second encapsulation layer TFE2, and a third encapsulation layer TFE3. The first encapsulation layer TFE1 and the third encapsulation layer TFE3 may be inorganic encapsulation layers, and the second encapsulation layer TFE2 disposed therebetween may be an organic encapsulation layer.

[0192] Each of the first encapsulation layer TFE1 and the third encapsulation layer TFE3 may include one or more inorganic insulating materials. The inorganic insulating materials may include aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, tantalum oxide, hafnium oxide, zinc oxide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and / or silicon oxynitride.

[0193] The second encapsulation layer TFE2 may include an organic insulating material. The organic insulating material may include, for example, acrylic resin, epoxy resin, polyimide, and polyethylene. The second encapsulation layer TFE2 may be formed by curing monomers or coating polymers.

[0194] The touch sensing layer (TSU) can be disposed on the encapsulation layer (TFEL). The touch sensing layer (TSU) may include a touch insulating layer (TNS), a driving electrode (TE), and a bridging electrode (CE). Although not illustrated, the touch sensing layer (TSU) may further include... Figure 7 The sensing electrode RE is illustrated in the example.

[0195] The driving electrode TE can be disposed on the third encapsulation layer TFE3. The driving electrode TE can be formed as a single layer made of molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), or indium tin oxide (ITO), or it can be formed as a stacked structure of aluminum and titanium (Ti / Al / Ti), a stacked structure of aluminum and ITO (ITO / Al / ITO), an APC alloy, or a stacked structure of APC alloy and ITO (ITO / APC / ITO). The driving electrode TE can be configured not to overlap with the first to third light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, and EA3.

[0196] The touch insulating layer (TNS) can be disposed on the driving electrode (TE) and the third encapsulation layer (TFE3). The touch insulating layer (TNS) can include organic or inorganic films. For example, the touch insulating layer (TNS) can include organic films such as acrylic resin, epoxy resin, polyimide, or polyethylene, or inorganic films such as silicon nitride, silicon oxide, or silicon oxynitride.

[0197] The bridging electrode CE can be disposed on the touch insulating layer TNS and can be connected to the drive electrode TE through a contact hole passing through the touch insulating layer TNS. The bridging electrode CE can be made of the material exemplified in the drive electrode TE.

[0198] The driving electrode TE and bridging electrode CE of the touch sensing layer TSU can be configured to overlap with multiple raised PRJs and a light-shielding pattern BM. Therefore, the driving electrode TE and bridging electrode CE can be prevented from being visually recognized from the outside by being covered by the light-shielding pattern BM.

[0199] A color filter layer (CFL) can be disposed on the touch sensing layer (TSU). The color filter layer (CFL) can be a reflection control layer that controls the reflection of external light. The color filter layer (CFL) may include multiple color filters (CF1, CF2, and CF3) and a light-shielding pattern (BM). Each of the color filters can selectively transmit light of a specific wavelength and can block or absorb light of different wavelengths. The color filter layer (CFL) can absorb a portion of the light introduced from the outside of the display device 10 to reduce reflected light caused by external light. Therefore, the color filter layer (CFL) can prevent color distortion caused by the reflection of external light.

[0200] The light-shielding pattern BM can be disposed on the touch insulating layer TNS of the touch sensing layer TSU. The light-shielding pattern BM can be configured to cover the conductive lines of the driving electrode TE, and can be divided into multiple light-emitting portions OPT1, OPT2, and OPT3 that overlap with the first to third light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, and EA3. For example, the first light-emitting portion OPT1 can be configured to overlap with the first light-emitting region EA1 or the first opening OPE1. The second light-emitting portion OPT2 can be configured to overlap with the second light-emitting region EA2 or the second opening OPE2, and the third light-emitting portion OPT3 can be configured to overlap with the third light-emitting region EA3 or the third opening OPE3. Although not illustrated in the figures, the fourth light-emitting portion OPT4 can be configured to overlap with the fourth light-emitting region EA4 or the fourth opening OPE4.

[0201] The area or size of each of the light emitting portions OPT1, OPT2, OPT3, and OPT4 can be larger than the area or size of the openings OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, and OPE4 of the pixel defining film PDL. Because the light emitting portions OPT1, OPT2, OPT3, and OPT4 of the light-shielding pattern BM are formed to be larger than the openings OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, and OPE4 of the pixel defining film PDL, the light emitted from the light-emitting areas EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4 can be visually recognized by the user not only from the front side of the display device 10 but also from its side surfaces.

[0202] The light-shielding pattern BM may include a light-absorbing material. For example, the light-shielding pattern BM may include inorganic black pigments or organic black pigments. The inorganic black pigment may be carbon black, and the organic black pigment may include, but is not limited to, at least one of lactam black, perylene black, and aniline black. The light-shielding pattern BM can prevent visible light from passing through and mixing colors between the first to the fourth light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4, thereby improving the color reproduction rate of the display device 10.

[0203] In another embodiment, the light-blocking pattern BM can be defined as the area where multiple color filters CF1, CF2, and CF3 overlap. For example, the area where the first color filter CF1, the second color filter CF2, and the third color filter CF3, described later, overlap on a third-direction DR3 can be defined as the light-blocking pattern BM. In this case, the first color filter CF1, the second color filter CF2, and the third color filter CF3 can respectively block the remaining light other than red light, green light, and blue light, thereby ultimately blocking the light.

[0204] Multiple color filters CF1, CF2, and CF3 of the color filter layer CFL can be disposed on the light-shielding pattern BM and the touch insulating layer TNS. The multiple color filters CF1, CF2, and CF3 may include a first color filter CF1, a second color filter CF2, and a third color filter CF3.

[0205] The first color filter CF1 can be configured to overlap with the first light emitting portion OPT1 and the first light emitting region EA1, and a portion of the first color filter CF1 can be configured to overlap with the non-light emitting region NEA. The first color filter CF1 can selectively transmit light of a first color (e.g., red light) and can block or absorb light of a second color (e.g., blue light) and a third color (e.g., green light). For example, the first color filter CF1 can be a red color filter and include a red colorant, but is not limited thereto.

[0206] The second color filter CF2 can be configured to overlap with the second light emitting portion OPT2 and the second light-emitting region EA2, and a portion of the second color filter CF2 can be configured to overlap with the non-light-emitting region NEA. The second color filter CF2 can selectively transmit light of a second color (e.g., blue light) and can block or absorb light of a third color (e.g., green light) and light of a first color (e.g., red light). For example, the second color filter CF2 can be a blue color filter and includes a blue colorant, but is not limited thereto.

[0207] The third color filter CF3 can be configured to overlap with the third light emitting portion OPT3 and the third light emitting region EA3, and a portion of the third color filter CF3 can be configured to overlap with the non-light emitting region NEA. The third color filter CF3 can selectively transmit light of a third color (e.g., green light) and can block or absorb light of a first color (e.g., red light) and a second color (e.g., blue light). For example, the third color filter CF3 can be a green color filter and include a green colorant, but is not limited thereto. Although not illustrated, the fourth color filter CF4 can be a green color filter like the third color filter CF3, and can be configured to overlap with the fourth light emitting portion OPT4 and the fourth light emitting region EA4.

[0208] An outer coating OC can be applied to the color filter layer CFL. The outer coating OC can cover the color filter layer CFL to flatten the underlying height difference. The outer coating OC can be a colorless, transparent layer that is colorless in the visible light band. For example, the outer coating OC can comprise colorless, transparent organic materials such as acrylic resin or polyimide.

[0209] In some embodiments, the outer coating OC may further include a dye capable of selectively absorbing light in a specific wavelength band. The outer coating OC can reduce the reflectivity of external light by absorbing light in a portion of the wavelength band of light incident from the outside.

[0210] Figure 18 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a display device according to yet another embodiment. Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the peripheral region of the third light-emitting region of a display device according to yet another embodiment. Figure 20 This is an example Figure 19 A plan view of the area surrounding the third luminescent region. Figure 21 It is a perspective view schematically illustrating the first groove and the first protrusion touching the insulating layer.

[0211] refer to Figures 18 to 21 This embodiment and Figures 10 to 17 The difference in this embodiment is that the touch sensing layer TSU includes a first uneven portion UEP1 and the color filter layer CFL includes a second uneven portion UEP2. In the following, descriptions that are repeated in the above embodiments will be omitted, and the differences from the above embodiments will be described.

[0212] The display panel 100 of the display device 10 according to the embodiment may include a display layer DU, a touch sensing layer TSU, a color filter layer CFL, and an outer coating layer OC.

[0213] The touch sensing layer TSU may include a first uneven portion UEP1, which includes a first groove GR1 and a plurality of first protrusions PRJ1 disposed in the first groove GR1. Sub-grooves may be defined along the first groove GR1 between adjacent first protrusions PRJ1.

[0214] The first uneven portion UEP1 can be disposed on the touch insulating layer TNS. The touch insulating layer TNS can define a first protrusion PRJ1. For example, the first groove GR1 of the first uneven portion UEP1 can be formed recessedly from the surface of the touch insulating layer TNS toward the substrate SUB. The first uneven portion UEP1 can be configured to overlap with the non-light-emitting region NEA, and the first groove GR1 and the plurality of protrusions PRJ1 can also overlap with the non-light-emitting region NEA. The first uneven portion UEP1 can be configured not to overlap with the first light-emitting region to the third light-emitting region EA1, EA2 and EA3 or the first opening to the third opening OPE1, OPE2 and OPE3. In addition, the first uneven portion UEP1 can be configured to overlap with the first light-emitting portion to the third light-emitting portion OPT1, OPT2 and OPT3. The first uneven portion UEP1 can be configured to surround the first light-emitting region to the third light-emitting region EA1, EA2 and EA3 respectively in a plan view.

[0215] The width of the first uneven portion UEP1 may be less than or equal to the width of the area where the first light emitting portion to the third light emitting portion OPT1, OPT2 and OPT3 overlaps with the non-light emitting region NEA. However, the first uneven portion UEP1 is not limited to this, and may also overlap with the light-shielding pattern BM if it does not overlap with the first light emitting region to the third light emitting region EA1, EA2 and EA3.

[0216] The plurality of first protrusions PRJ1 of the first uneven portion UEP1 can be disposed in the first groove GR1 and can have a finely uneven shape protruding from the bottom surface of the first groove GR1 in a third direction DR3. The plurality of first protrusions PRJ1 can comprise the same material as the touch insulating layer TNS and can be integrally formed therewith. When external light is incident on the plurality of first protrusions PRJ1 in the same manner as in the above embodiment, the refractive index is perceived to gradually decrease due to the fine unevenness, and therefore, no Fresnel reflection occurs. Accordingly, the light incident on the plurality of first protrusions PRJ1 is transmitted as is without being reflected. In one embodiment, the first uneven portion UEP1 can have a moth-eye fine structure.

[0217] The plurality of first protrusions PRJ1 can be configured to overlap with the non-light-emitting region NEA, and can be configured not to overlap with the first light-emitting region to the third light-emitting region EA1, EA2 and EA3 or the first opening to the third opening OPE1, OPE2 and OPE3. In addition, the plurality of first protrusions PRJ1 can be configured to overlap with the first light-emitting portion to the third light-emitting portion OPT1, OPT2 and OPT3.

[0218] The plurality of first protrusions PRJ1 can have a pitch P1 of 0.5 μm to 2 μm and a width W1 of 0.5 μm to 2 μm. Additionally, the plurality of first protrusions PRJ1 can have a height TT1 of 0.5 μm to 1 μm. When the pitch P1, width W1, and height TT1 of the plurality of first protrusions PRJ1 are within the aforementioned ranges, the color difference of reflected light can be reduced, the reflection of external light can be prevented, and the second groove GR2 and the second protrusion PRJ2, which will be described later, can be easily formed.

[0219] As described above, in the regions where the first light emitting portion to the third light emitting portions OPT1, OPT2, and OPT3 overlap with the non-light-emitting region NEA, light incident from the outside can be reflected by the common electrode CO. In this embodiment, by providing a first uneven portion UEP1, including a first groove GR1 and a plurality of first protrusions PRJ1 disposed in the first groove GR1, on the touch insulating layer TNS between the light-shielding pattern BM and the first light-emitting region to the third light-emitting region EA1, EA2, and EA3, the reflection of light incident from the outside can be reduced.

[0220] Meanwhile, the multiple color filters CF1, CF2 and CF3 disposed on the touch insulating layer TNS may include a second uneven portion UEP2, which includes a second groove GR2 and multiple second protrusions PRJ2 disposed in the second groove GR2.

[0221] The second uneven portion UEP2 can be provided on each color filter CF1, CF2, and CF3. For example, the second groove GR2 can be formed recessed from the surface of each color filter CF1, CF2, and CF3 toward the substrate SUB. The second uneven portion UEP2 and the second groove GR2 can be configured to overlap with the non-light-emitting region NEA, and can be configured not to overlap with the first to third light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, and EA3 or the first to third opening OPE1, OPE2, and OPE3. In addition, the second uneven portion UEP2 can be configured to overlap with the first to third light-emitting portions OPT1, OPT2, and OPT3. The second uneven portion UEP2 can be configured to surround the first to third light-emitting regions EA1, EA2, and EA3 respectively in a planar view.

[0222] The width of the second uneven portion UEP2 can be the width of the second groove GR2. The width of the second uneven portion UEP2 and the width of the second groove GR2 can be smaller than the width of the area where the first light emitting portion to the third light emitting portion OPT1, OPT2, and OPT3 overlaps with the non-light-emitting area NEA. The width of the second uneven portion UEP2 can be smaller than the width of the first uneven portion UEP1. For example, the width of the second groove GR2 can be smaller than the width of the first groove GR1. When each color filter CF1, CF2, and CF3 is coated on the first uneven portion UEP1 formed on the touch insulating layer TNS, the second uneven portion UEP2 can be formed due to the height difference of the first uneven portion UEP1. Therefore, the width of the second uneven portion UEP2 can be formed to be smaller than the width of the first uneven portion UEP1, and the area of ​​the second uneven portion UEP2 can also be formed to be smaller than the area of ​​the first uneven portion UEP1. For example, the area of ​​the second groove GR2 can be formed to be smaller than the area of ​​the first groove GR1. In addition, the depth of the second groove GR2 can be made smaller than the depth of the first groove GR1.

[0223] The second uneven portion UEP2 may have multiple second protrusions PRJ2 disposed within the second groove GR2, and may have a finely uneven shape protruding from the bottom surface of the second groove GR2 in a third direction DR3. The second uneven portion UEP2 may be integrally formed with each color filter CF1, CF2, and CF3. When external light is incident on the multiple second protrusions PRJ2 in the same manner as in the above embodiment, the refractive index is perceived to gradually decrease due to the fine unevenness, and therefore, Fresnel reflection does not occur. Accordingly, the light incident on the multiple second protrusions PRJ2 is transmitted as is without reflection. In one embodiment, the second uneven portion UEP2 may have a moth-eye fine structure.

[0224] The multiple second protrusions PRJ2 can be configured to overlap with the non-light-emitting region NEA, and can be configured not to overlap with the first to third light-emitting regions EA1, EA2 and EA3 or the first to third openings OPE1, OPE2 and OPE3. In addition, the multiple second protrusions PRJ2 can be configured to overlap with the first to third light-emitting portions OPT1, OPT2 and OPT3.

[0225] Multiple second protrusions PRJ2 can be configured to overlap with multiple first protrusions PRJ1. When each color filter CF1, CF2, and CF3 is coated on the multiple first protrusions PRJ1 formed on the touch insulating layer TNS, the multiple second protrusions PRJ2 can be formed due to the height difference of the first protrusions PRJ1. Therefore, the multiple second protrusions PRJ2 can be configured to overlap with the multiple first protrusions PRJ1.

[0226] The plurality of second protrusions PRJ2 can have a pitch P2 of 0.5 μm to 2 μm and a width W2 of 0.5 μm to 2 μm. Additionally, the plurality of second protrusions PRJ2 can have a height TT2 of 0.5 μm to 1 μm. When the pitch P2, width W2, and height TT2 of the plurality of second protrusions PRJ2 are within the above ranges, the color difference of the reflected light can be reduced, and the reflection of external light can be prevented.

[0227] In addition, the pitch P2 of the plurality of second protrusions PRJ2 can be smaller than the pitch P1 of the plurality of first protrusions PRJ1, the width W2 of the second protrusions PRJ2 can be greater than the width W1 of the plurality of first protrusions PRJ1, and the height TT2 of the second protrusions PRJ2 can be smaller than the height TT1 of the plurality of first protrusions PRJ1.

[0228] In this embodiment, by providing a first uneven portion UEP1 including a first groove GR1 and a plurality of first protrusions PRJ1 on each color filter CF1, CF2 and CF3, and providing a second uneven portion UEP2 including a second groove GR2 and a plurality of second protrusions PRJ2 on each color filter CF1, CF2 and CF3 between the light-shielding pattern BM and the first light-emitting area to the third light-emitting area EA1, EA2 and EA3, the reflection of light incident from the outside can be further reduced.

[0229] In one or more of the above embodiments, the display device 10 includes a pixel defining film PDL that divides adjacent light-emitting regions and non-light-emitting regions NEA within a display area DA, a pixel electrode AE ​​in the light-emitting region and overlapping with the pixel defining film PDL, a light-emitting layer EL on the pixel electrode AE, a common electrode CO on the pixel defining film PDL and the light-emitting layer EL, an encapsulation layer TFEL on the common electrode CO, a reflection control layer on the encapsulation layer TFEL, and an uneven portion UEP defined by a layer of protrusions PRJ between the pixel defining film PDL and the reflection control layer, wherein the protrusions PRJ overlap with the non-light-emitting region NEA and do not overlap with the light-emitting region.

[0230] Meanwhile, in the display device 10 according to the above embodiment, the polarizing member POL can also be used as a reflection control layer instead of the color filter layer CFL.

[0231] Figure 22 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a display device according to yet another embodiment. Figure 23 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a display device according to yet another embodiment. Figure 24 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a display device according to yet another embodiment.

[0232] Figure 22 Example from Figure 10An example omitting the color filter layer CFL and setting the polarizing element POL, and Figure 23 Example from Figure 18 An example omitting the color filter layer (CFL) and setting the polarizing element (POL). Additionally, Figure 24 Example in Figure 23 An example is provided in which a first uneven portion UEP1 is provided on the second encapsulation layer TFE2 and a second uneven portion UEP2 is provided on the touch insulating layer TNS.

[0233] refer to Figure 22 and Figure 23 The outer coating OC can be disposed on the touch sensing layer TSU, and the polarizing member POL can be disposed on the outer coating OC. The outer coating OC can flatten the height difference of the touch sensing layer TSU, so that the polarizing member POL can be well attached. The polarizing member POL can be used as a reflection control layer to prevent the reflection of external light by converting the polarization axis of light incident from the outside and blocking the transmission of light reflected and emitted from the display layer DU.

[0234] exist Figure 22 In embodiments, the uneven portion UEP, including multiple protrusions PRJ, can be disposed in the non-light-emitting region NEA on the pixel-defining film PDL, and... Figure 23 In one embodiment, the first uneven portion UEP1, including the first groove GR1 and a plurality of first protrusions PRJ1 disposed in the first groove GR1, can be disposed in the non-light-emitting area NEA of the touch insulating layer TNS.

[0235] In addition, Figure 24 In this embodiment, a first uneven portion UEP1, including a first groove GR1 and a plurality of first protrusions PRJ1 disposed in the first groove GR1, can be disposed in the non-light-emitting region NEA on the second encapsulation layer TFE2, and a second uneven portion UEP2, including a second groove GR2 and a plurality of second protrusions PRJ2 disposed in the second groove GR2, can be disposed in the non-light-emitting region NEA of the touch insulating layer TNS. For example, the second encapsulation layer TFE2 can define a layer of the first protrusions PRJ1 of the first uneven portion UEP1. The touch insulating layer TNS can define a layer of the second protrusions PRJ2 of the second uneven portion UEP2. Accordingly, through the fine structure of the uneven portion UEP in the non-light-emitting region NEA, the reflection of light incident from the outside can be reduced.

[0236] The display device of this disclosure will be described in detail below in the following manufacturing and experimental examples. However, the following manufacturing and experimental examples are merely illustrative of this disclosure, and this disclosure is not limited to the following examples.

[0237] <First Manufacturing Example: Display Panel Manufacturing>

[0238] Figure 10 The display panel samples illustrated in the figure were manufactured. Each sample was manufactured with the same structure, except that the width and spacing of the mask patterns used to create the multiple bumps were varied as shown in Table 1 below. In this case, the exposure time was consistently 1250 ms. Furthermore, in Table 1 below, whether a bump has been formed is indicated by O if it is confirmed that the bump is formed normally throughout the entire area of ​​the pixel-defining film, and whether a bump has been formed is indicated by X if it is confirmed that the bump is partially formed or not formed at all.

[0239] [Table 1]

[0240] <First Experimental Example: Reflectance Measurement>

[0241] The reflectance and black reflectance of display panel samples 1 to 4 were measured. Reflectance and black reflectance were measured using a spectrophotometer, and reflectance was measured using the excluded specular reflection component (SCE) method (measuring reflected light with regular reflection removed) and the included specular reflection component (SCI) method (measuring reflected light with regular reflection included).

[0242] Figure 25 This is a graph illustrating the SCE reflectance of display panel samples 1 to 4 according to the wavelength band, based on the first experimental example. Figure 26 This is a graph illustrating the reflective color perception of black for display panel samples 1 to 4 according to the first experimental example. Additionally, Table 2 below illustrates the SCE and SCI reflectance (Y) and the color coordinates of black for display panel samples 1 to 4. ).

[0243] [Table 2]

[0244] refer to Figure 25 and Figure 26 And as shown in Table 2, compared with samples 1, 2, and 4 where the protrusions were abnormally formed or not formed, in sample 3 where the protrusions were normally formed, the SCI reflectance and SCE reflectance were reduced, and the black color perception was also lower. The value is approximately 0.3 and The value was improved by approximately 0.4. These results confirm that by forming multiple protrusions in the non-luminescent areas, reflectivity can be reduced and the perception of black can be improved.

[0245] <Second Manufacturing Example: Manufacturing of Display Panels>

[0246] Figure 18The display panel samples illustrated in the figures were manufactured. In samples 6 and 7, the width and spacing of the mask patterns used to create the raised areas on the touch insulating layer and color filter were manufactured as shown in Table 3 below, while in sample 5, no raised areas were formed. The other structures were manufactured in the same manner.

[0247] [Table 3]

[0248] <Second Experimental Example: Reflectance Measurement>

[0249] The reflectance and black reflectance of display panel samples 5 to 7 were measured. Reflectance was measured using the excluded specular reflection component (SCE) method, which measures reflected light after removing regular reflections.

[0250] Figure 27 This is a graph illustrating the SCE color coordinate system of display panel sample 5 according to the second experimental example. Figure 28 This is a graph illustrating the SCE color coordinate system of display panel sample 6 according to the second experimental example, and Figure 29 This is a graph illustrating the SCE color coordinate system of display panel sample 7 according to the second experimental example. Figure 30 This is a graph illustrating the reflective color perception of black for display panel samples 5 to 7 according to the second experimental example. Additionally, Table 4 below illustrates the average color difference and chromaticity values ​​for display panel samples 5 to 7 at each SCE azimuth angle.

[0251] [Table 4]

[0252] refer to Figures 27 to 29 Table 4 shows the average color difference for each SCE azimuth angle in sample 7, where the protrusions were normally formed, compared to samples 5 and 6 where the protrusions were abnormally formed or not formed. The value improved by approximately 0.3 to approximately 0.8. Additionally, refer to... Figure 30 Compared to samples 5 and 6 where the protrusions were abnormally formed or not formed, in sample 7 where the protrusions were normally formed, the black... The value improved by approximately 1.

[0253] These results confirm that the perception of blue and black can be improved by forming uneven portions, including multiple raised bumps, on the touch insulating layer and color filter in non-light-emitting areas.

[0254] Although exemplary embodiments of the invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics of the invention. Therefore, the above embodiments should be considered illustrative and non-limiting in all respects, and the scope of the invention is defined only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: The substrate includes adjacent display areas and non-display areas; A pixel-defining film divides adjacent light-emitting and non-light-emitting areas within the display area; A pixel electrode is located in the light-emitting region and overlaps with the pixel-defining film. A light-emitting layer is located on the pixel electrode; A common electrode is located on the pixel defining film and the light-emitting layer; Encapsulation layer, on the common electrode; A reflection control layer is located on the encapsulation layer; as well as The uneven portion is defined by a raised layer between the pixel defining film and the reflection control layer, the raised portion overlapping the non-light-emitting region but not overlapping the light-emitting region.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the uneven portion is directly on the pixel defining film.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein... The reflection control layer includes: The color filter overlaps with the light-emitting area; as well as A light-shielding layer includes a light-shielding pattern that overlaps with the non-light-emitting area and divides the light-emitting area of ​​the light-shielding layer into light-emitting openings. The protrusions of the uneven portion further overlap with the light emission openings of the light-shielding layer.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein The overlapping area is defined where the light-emitting opening and the non-emitting area of ​​the light-shielding layer overlap each other, and The uneven portion is in the overlapping area and does not overlap with the light-blocking pattern.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein... Each of the protrusions has a planar area in the plan view, and The planar area decreases in the direction from the pixel defining film to the reflection control layer.

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein among the protrusions in the uneven portion, the pitch between adjacent protrusions and the width of each protrusion are 0.5 micrometers to 2 micrometers.

7. The display device of claim 2, further comprising a spacer between the pixel defining film and the common electrode, the spacer being coplanar with the protrusion, overlapping the non-light-emitting area, and having a thickness along the thickness direction of the display device. The thickness of each of the protrusions is less than the thickness of the spacer.

8. The display device of claim 7, wherein the thickness of each of the protrusions is at least 1 micrometer less than the thickness of the spacer.

9. The display device according to claim 7, wherein the protrusion and the spacer are corresponding patterns of the same material layer.

10. The display device of claim 2, wherein the pixel defining film defines the raised layer of the uneven portion.

11. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The pixel defining film includes an inclined surface that defines the light-emitting area and contacts the pixel electrode, and The protrusions are arranged along the inclined surface.

12. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The encapsulation layer includes a first encapsulation layer, a second encapsulation layer on the first encapsulation layer, and a third encapsulation layer on the second encapsulation layer. The first encapsulation layer and the third encapsulation layer comprise inorganic materials. The second encapsulation layer comprises an organic material, and The second encapsulation layer defines the raised layer of the uneven portion.

13. The display device of claim 1, further comprising a touch sensing layer between the encapsulation layer and the reflection control layer. in The touch sensing layer includes touch electrodes and a touch insulating layer, and The touch insulating layer defines the raised layer of the uneven portion.

14. The display device of claim 2, further comprising a touch sensing layer between the encapsulation layer and the reflection control layer.

15. A display device, comprising: The substrate includes adjacent display areas and non-display areas; A pixel-defining film divides adjacent light-emitting and non-light-emitting areas within the display area; A pixel electrode is located in the light-emitting region and overlaps with the pixel-defining film. A light-emitting layer is located on the pixel electrode; A common electrode is located on the pixel defining film and the light-emitting layer; Encapsulation layer, on the common electrode; as well as A touch sensing layer, on the encapsulation layer, the touch sensing layer comprising: Touch the insulating layer; and The first uneven portion includes a first raised layer, the first raised layer overlapping the non-luminous region but not overlapping the luminous region.

16. The display device of claim 15, wherein the first uneven portion of the touch sensing layer further comprises: The first groove overlaps with the non-light-emitting area, and The first protrusion is arranged along the first groove.

17. The display device according to claim 16, wherein, In the plan view, the first uneven portion of the touch sensing layer surrounds the light-emitting area.

18. The display device of claim 15, wherein the touch insulating layer defines the first protrusion.

19. The display device of claim 15, further comprising a color filter layer on the touch sensing layer, the color filter layer comprising a light-shielding pattern overlapping the non-light-emitting area and a color filter overlapping the light-emitting area.

20. The display device according to claim 19, wherein The first uneven portion of the touch sensing layer further includes: The first groove overlaps with the non-light-emitting area, and The first protrusion is arranged along the first groove, and The color filter includes a second uneven portion, the second uneven portion comprising: The second groove overlaps with the first groove; and The second protrusion is arranged along the second groove and overlaps with the first protrusion.

21. The display device according to claim 20, wherein The width of the second groove is smaller than the width of the first groove. The depth of the second groove is less than the depth of the first groove. The width of each second protrusion is greater than the width of each first protrusion, and The height of each second protrusion is less than the height of each first protrusion.

22. The display device according to claim 15, further comprising a polarizing member on the touch sensing layer.

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