Display panel and display device

Abstract

A display panel and a display device are provided. In the display panel, a connection electrode is located on an insulating layer and electrically connected with a pixel circuit; a first electrode of the light-emitting element is located on the insulating layer; the separation structure comprises a first separation part; the pixel defining layer includes a first opening configured to expose at least a portion of the connection electrode; the second electrode of the light-emitting element is arranged on the pixel defining layer and is connected with the connecting electrode through the first opening of the pixel defining layer, and the pixel defining layer further comprises a second opening which is configured to expose at least one part of the first electrode of the light-emitting element to define a light-emitting area of the light-emitting element; the display panel comprises a display area and gate driving areas on the array, the gate driving areas on the array are located on one side of the display area, the boundary of the display area and the boundary of the gate driving areas on the array extend in the first direction, and the connecting electrodes extend in the first direction. The space can be saved as much as possible while the effective contact area is increased, and the aperture ratio is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] At least one embodiment of the present utility model relates to a display panel and a display device. Background Art

[0002] Inverted organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) can solve the temperature rise problem caused by floating sources in all-N-type pixel circuits. However, if the OLED device's cathode-common layer-light-emitting layer (for example, R / G / B)-common layer-anode sequence is completely reversed to create an inverted device, not only will most of the device materials need to be replaced, but reversing the evaporation sequence may also require production line modifications, which will be very costly.

[0003] Recently, the uses and applications of display devices have diversified. As customers pursue thinner and lighter displays, their scope of use has gradually expanded. As OLED technology gradually enters the field of medium-sized display panels, N-type metal-oxide-semiconductor (NMOS) internal pixel circuits using thin-film transistors (TFTs) with all-oxide channels, such as indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO), are an ideal choice for medium and large-sized display panels. Utility Model Content

[0004] At least one embodiment of the present invention relates to a display panel and a display device, which are useful for improving the connection stability between the connecting electrode and the second electrode, and can increase the effective contact area while saving space as much as possible and improving the aperture ratio.

[0005] An embodiment of the present invention provides a display panel, comprising: a base substrate; a pixel circuit located on the base substrate; an insulating layer located on the pixel circuit; a connecting electrode located on the insulating layer and electrically connected to the pixel circuit; a first electrode of a light-emitting element located on the insulating layer; a separation structure comprising a first separation portion; a pixel defining layer comprising a first opening, the first opening being configured to expose at least a portion of the connecting electrode; and a second electrode of the light-emitting element, arranged on the pixel defining layer and connected to the connecting electrode through the first opening of the pixel defining layer, wherein the pixel defining layer further comprises a second opening, the second opening being configured to expose at least a portion of the first electrode of the light-emitting element to define a light-emitting area of ​​the light-emitting element, wherein the display panel comprises a display area and a gate driving area on an array, the gate driving area on the array being located on one side of the display area, the boundary between the display area and the gate driving area on the array extending along a first direction, and the connecting electrode extending along the first direction.

[0006] For example, in the display panel provided by the embodiment of the present invention, the connecting electrode extends along a straight line and is in a strip shape, an arc shape, a curve shape, or includes a plurality of portions extending along different straight lines and each in a strip shape.

[0007] For example, in the display panel provided by an embodiment of the present invention, the length of the connecting electrode in its extension direction is greater than or equal to the length of the light-emitting area close to the connecting electrode in the extension direction.

[0008] For example, in the display panel provided by the embodiment of the present invention, each light-emitting area corresponds to a connecting electrode, and among the connecting electrodes corresponding to the light-emitting areas in the same column, the connecting electrodes are arranged alternately or in a disordered manner.

[0009] For example, in the display panel provided by the embodiment of the present invention, the connecting electrodes corresponding to two adjacent light-emitting areas are located on different sides of the corresponding light-emitting areas.

[0010] For example, in the display panel provided by an embodiment of the present invention, the connecting electrode includes two connecting electrode portions spaced apart from each other, and the two connecting electrode portions are respectively arranged on two opposite sides of the light-emitting area.

[0011] For example, in the display panel provided in the embodiment of the present invention, the display panel further includes a power line, and the power line is connected to the first electrode of the light emitting element.

[0012] For example, in the display panel provided in an embodiment of the present invention, the power line includes a power signal line extending along a second direction and a power connection line extending along the first direction, the second direction intersects with the first direction, and two adjacent columns of light-emitting elements share the same power connection line.

[0013] For example, in the display panel provided by the embodiment of the present invention, the power lines are in a mesh shape.

[0014] For example, in the display panel provided by an embodiment of the present invention, the power signal line includes a first widened portion, and the first widened portions of two adjacent power signal lines are staggered.

[0015] For example, in the display panel provided by the embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of first widened portions are provided corresponding to light emitting elements emitting light of the same color.

[0016] For example, in the display panel provided in an embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of light-emitting elements are provided, and the plurality of light-emitting elements include a first light-emitting element, a second light-emitting element, and a third light-emitting element. The first light-emitting element is configured to emit a first color light, the second light-emitting element is configured to emit a second color light, and the third light-emitting element is configured to emit a third color light. The first light-emitting element and the second light-emitting element are located on the same side of the third light-emitting element and are arranged along the first direction. The first widened portion is arranged corresponding to the third light-emitting element.

[0017] For example, in the display panel provided by the embodiment of the present invention, the power line further includes a connection bus, and one connection bus corresponds to at least two columns of power connection lines.

[0018] For example, in the display panel provided by an embodiment of the present invention, the connection bus has a second widened portion, and an extension direction of the second widened portion intersects with an extension direction of the first widened portion.

[0019] For example, in the display panel provided by an embodiment of the present invention, the separation structure further includes a second separation portion, and the second separation portion is configured to disconnect the second electrodes of different sub-pixels.

[0020] For example, in the display panel provided by an embodiment of the present invention, the second separation portion is in contact with the insulating layer, in contact with the pixel defining layer, or is an integral structure with the pixel defining layer.

[0021] For example, in the display panel provided by an embodiment of the present invention, the connecting electrode is configured to extend in a direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the evaporation source when the connecting electrode is formed by an evaporation process.

[0022] For example, in the display panel provided by the embodiment of the present invention, no connection electrode is provided in a direction parallel to the moving direction of the evaporation source.

[0023] For example, in the display panel provided by an embodiment of the present invention, the display area and the gate driving area on the array are arranged along a second direction, and the first direction intersects with the second direction.

[0024] For example, the pixel circuits of different sub-pixels are connected to different second electrodes to independently control the voltage on the second electrode of each sub-pixel, and the first electrodes of multiple sub-pixels have the same voltage.

[0025] For example, the light-emitting element is provided in plurality to form a plurality of sub-pixels, the plurality of sub-pixels including a first color sub-pixel, a second color sub-pixel, and a third color sub-pixel, the first color sub-pixel being configured to emit a first color light, the second color sub-pixel being configured to emit a second color light, the third color sub-pixel being configured to emit a third color light, and at least two of the connecting electrodes of the first color sub-pixel, the connecting electrodes of the second color sub-pixel, and the connecting electrodes of the third color sub-pixel having different lengths in the first direction.

[0026] For example, the length of the connecting electrode of the first color sub-pixel in the first direction is different from the length of the connecting electrode of the second color sub-pixel in the first direction.

[0027] For example, the length of the connecting electrode of the second color sub-pixel in the first direction is different from the length of the connecting electrode of the third color sub-pixel in the first direction.

[0028] For example, for the same sub-pixel, the ratio of the length of the connecting electrode in the first direction to the maximum length of the second opening in the first direction is in a range of 0.6-1.5.

[0029] For example, for the same sub-pixel, the ratio of the maximum length of the second opening in the first direction to the maximum length of the first opening in the first direction is in a range of 0.6-1.5.

[0030] Utility Model Utility Model Utility Model An embodiment of the utility model further provides a display device, comprising any one of the above-mentioned display panels. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings in the following description only relate to some embodiments of the present invention, rather than limiting the present invention.

[0032] Figure 1 A circuit diagram of a display panel containing a P-type pixel circuit.

[0033] Figure 2 The circuit diagram of a display panel containing an all-N-type pixel circuit.

[0034] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a partial structure of a display panel provided in an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0035] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a display panel provided in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of a display panel provided in another embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 6 A schematic plan view of a display panel provided in an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0038] Figure 7 The evaporation conditions of the evaporation source at different times are shown.

[0039] Figure 8 A schematic plan view of a display panel provided by an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 9 A schematic plan view of a display panel provided in another embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 10 A schematic plan view of a display panel provided by an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of a light-emitting area of ​​a connection electrode and a sub-pixel in a display panel provided by an embodiment of the present invention, wherein: Figure 11 (a) to Figure 11 (d) is a schematic diagram of the light-emitting areas of the connection electrodes and sub-pixels in several display panels provided by the embodiments of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 12 A schematic diagram of a display panel provided in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 13 The present invention is a schematic plan view of a partial structure of a display panel provided by an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 14 A schematic cross-sectional view of a display panel provided by an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figures 15 to 17A schematic plan view of a display panel provided in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] To make the purpose, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention more clear, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of them. Based on the described embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without creative work are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0048] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in this utility model should have the usual meanings understood by people with ordinary skills in the field to which this utility model belongs. The words "first", "second" and similar words used in this utility model do not indicate any order, quantity or importance, but are only used to distinguish different components. Similarly, words such as "one", "an" or "the" do not indicate a limit on quantity, but rather indicate the existence of at least one. Words such as "include" or "comprise" mean that the elements or objects preceding the word include the elements or objects listed after the word and their equivalents, without excluding other elements or objects. Words such as "connect" or "connected" are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, but may include electrical connections, whether direct or indirect. "Up", "down", "left", "right" and the like are only used to indicate relative positional relationships. When the absolute position of the object being described changes, the relative positional relationship may also change accordingly.

[0049] Figure 1 A circuit diagram of a display panel containing a P-type pixel circuit. Figure 2 The circuit diagram of a display panel containing an all-N-type pixel circuit.

[0050] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the pixel circuit includes transistors T1 to T5, capacitors C1 and C2. The pixel circuit drives the light emitting element M0 to emit light.

[0051] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, transistor T1 is a driving transistor, transistor T2 is a data writing transistor, transistor T3 is a threshold compensation transistor, transistor T4 is a reset transistor, transistor T5 is a light emitting control transistor, and transistor T6 is a reset transistor.

[0052] Figure 1 and Figure 2The figure shows power lines PL1, PL2, an emission control signal line EM, an initialization signal line INT, a gate line GT, a data line DT, a reference voltage line REF, a reset control signal line RST1, a reset control signal line RST2, and a reset control signal line RST3. Power line PL1 is configured to provide a power supply voltage VDD, power line PL2 is configured to provide a power supply voltage VSS, emission control signal line EM is configured to provide an emission control signal, initialization signal line INT is configured to provide an initialization voltage Vint, gate line GT is configured to provide a scan signal, data line DT is configured to provide a data voltage Vdt, reference voltage line REF is configured to provide a reference voltage Vref, and reset control signal lines RST1, RST2, and RST3 are each configured to provide a reset control signal. The reset control signals on different reset control signal lines can be the same or different. The power supply voltage VDD is greater than the power supply voltage VSS. The initialization voltage Vint can be between the power supply voltage VDD and the power supply voltage VSS. The reference voltage Vref can be a fixed voltage.

[0053] Figure 1 and Figure 2 Nodes N1 to N4 are shown. For example, node N2 is the drain terminal of the driving transistor T1, and node N4 is the source terminal of the driving transistor T1.

[0054] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the N-type TFT backplane technology using oxide in the channel is theoretically analyzed and it is found that the source of the driving transistor is connected to the high potential power supply voltage VDD (such as Figure 1 As shown) is changed to a low potential power supply voltage VSS (as Figure 2 However, the power supply voltage VSS terminal of the existing OLED device is connected to the cathode wiring, resulting in a large resistance of the cathode wiring and a large voltage drop, which causes extreme instability of the source and affects brightness uniformity.

[0055] Figure 2 The transistor T1 may include a bottom gate and a top gate, and the bottom gate may be connected to the second node N2 to improve the performance of the switching transistor, for example, to improve the data range of the switching transistor. Of course, the embodiments of the present invention include but are not limited to this.

[0056] It should be noted that the embodiments of the present invention are Figure 2 The pixel circuit shown is used as an example for illustration. However, the embodiments of the present invention do not limit the structure of the pixel circuit. For example, the structure of the pixel circuit includes the number of transistors, the number of storage capacitors, the connection relationship of the transistors, etc. In other words, those skilled in the art can adjust the structure of the pixel circuit as needed.

[0057] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a partial structure of a display panel provided in an embodiment of the present utility model. Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a display panel provided in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of a display panel provided in another embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 4 and Figure 5 The light-emitting element in the display panel shown is an inverted structure. Compared with conventional light-emitting elements, the light-emitting element with an inverted structure does not require adjustment in evaporation. The transistor in the pixel circuit is connected to the second electrode E2 (cathode) to independently control the voltage on the second electrode (cathode) of each sub-pixel to display an image. That is, the pixel circuits of different sub-pixels are connected to different second electrodes to independently control the voltage on the second electrode E2 of each sub-pixel. The first electrodes E1 (anode) of multiple sub-pixels have the same voltage. For example, the first electrode E1 (anode) adopts a patterned mesh design. For example, for a large-sized display panel, the pattern of the first electrode E1 (anode) can be set to a circle around the sub-pixel. For small and medium-sized display panels, the first electrode E1 (anode) is set at least on the upper and lower sides of the sub-pixel. The first electrode E1 (anode) is connected to the bus and then connected to the integrated circuit.

[0059] FMM-free technology means that in the manufacturing process of the light-emitting elements of the display panel, fine metal mask (FMM) is not used, such as the ELEAP technology mentioned later. Of course, FMM technology can also be used to form the display panel, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5 The display panel shown can be formed using the FMM technology.

[0060] Figure 2 This is an embodiment of an all-N-type pixel circuit in which all TFT channels are made of oxide. Figure 1 and Figure 2 , from the principle analysis, the separation type N type pixel circuit (such as Figure 2 As shown) compared with the P-type pixel circuit (as shown Figure 1 shown), Figure 1 The source electrode (node ​​N4) of the driving transistor (DTFT) in the pixel circuit shown is close to the VDD terminal. Figure 2 The source (node ​​N2) of the driving transistor (DTFT) in the N-type pixel circuit shown is close to the VSS terminal. Because the resistance drop at the VSS terminal and the parasitic capacitance of the light-emitting element (OLED device) itself will affect the gate-source terminal potential of the driving transistor, the threshold voltage of the N-type pixel circuit will drift, affecting the display effect.

[0061] Figure 6 A schematic plan view of a display panel provided by an embodiment of the present utility model. Figure 6 As shown, the display panel includes a display area 201 and a gate driver on array (GOA) area 202 , and the gate driver on array area 202 is located on one side of the display area 201 . Figure 6 The peripheral area 203 is shown. Figure 6 As shown, the peripheral region 203 includes the GOA region 202 .

[0062] like Figures 2 to 6 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides a display panel including: a base substrate BS, a pixel circuit PXC, an insulating layer LL, a connecting electrode CE, a first electrode E1 of a light-emitting element M0, a separation structure P0, and a pixel defining layer PDL. The pixel circuit PXC is located on the base substrate BS. The insulating layer LL is located on the pixel circuit PXC. The connecting electrode CE is located on the insulating layer LL and is electrically connected to the pixel circuit PXC. The first electrode E1 of the light-emitting element M0 is located on the insulating layer LL. The separation structure P0 includes a first separation portion P1. For example, the separation structure P0 includes a first separation portion P1 located on the connecting electrode CE. For example, the pixel defining layer PDL is disposed on the insulating layer LL and the first separation portion P1. For example, the pixel defining layer PDL includes a first opening OPN1, and the first opening OPN1 is configured to expose at least a portion of the connecting electrode CE. The second electrode E2 of the light-emitting element M0 is disposed on the pixel defining layer PDL and is connected to the connecting electrode CE through the first opening OPN1 of the pixel defining layer PDL. The pixel defining layer PDL further includes a second opening OPN2 configured to expose at least a portion of the first electrode E1 of the light emitting element to define a light emitting region 66 of the light emitting element.

[0063] like Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, the boundary 301 between the display area 201 and the gate driving area 202 on the array extends along the first direction Y, and the connecting electrode CE extends along the first direction Y. Figure 6 As shown, the boundary 301 between the display area 201 and the gate driving area 202 on the array can be a left vertical dotted line.

[0064] In conventional technology, if the connecting electrodes are overlapped in the form of points, the contact resistance will be very large, and there may be a situation where the overlap cannot be made, resulting in the pixel not being able to light up. In the display panel provided by the embodiment of the present utility model, the connecting electrode CE extends along the first direction Y, and the point-shaped connecting electrode in conventional technology is adjusted to a non-point shape, which is beneficial to improving the connection stability between the connecting electrode CE and the second electrode E2, and can increase the effective contact area while saving space as much as possible, thereby improving the aperture ratio. The display panel provided by the embodiment of the present utility model can increase the effective overlap area while ensuring the aperture ratio. The display panel provided by the embodiment of the present utility model can reduce the overlap resistance and reduce the voltage drop.

[0065] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the pixel defining layer PDL forms an undercut structure at the first separation portion P1 to facilitate the connection between the second electrode E2 and the connecting electrode CE.

[0066] like Figure 6 As shown, a plurality of gate drive units 401 are provided in the GOA region 202 of the display panel. The gate lines GT are connected to the gate drive units 401. The gate drive units 401 are used to provide scan signals to the gate lines GT. Figure 6 As shown, the plurality of gate driving units 401 are arranged along the first direction Y. For example, the plurality of gate driving units 401 may be cascaded.

[0067] Figure 6 The left side of the peripheral area 203 is used as the GOA area 202 for illustration. However, embodiments of the present invention include but are not limited to this. In other embodiments, the right side of the peripheral area 203 can be the GOA area 202. In this case, the boundary 301 between the display area 201 and the gate drive area 202 on the array can be a vertical dashed line on the right side. In other embodiments, the left side of the peripheral area 203 and the right side of the peripheral area 203 can both be the GOA area 202. In this case, the vertical dashed line on the left and the vertical dashed line on the right are respectively regarded as the boundary 301 between the display area 201 and the gate drive area 202 on the array.

[0068] like Figure 6 As shown, the gate lines GT extend along the second direction X, and a plurality of gate lines GT are arranged along the first direction Y.

[0069] In the embodiments of the present invention, if a component extends in a certain direction, the dimension of the component in that direction is greater than the dimensions of the component in other directions. The extension of a component in a certain direction does not require that every part of the component extends in that direction, but may refer to the extension of the component in that direction.

[0070] In the embodiment of the present invention, the first direction Y is parallel to the base substrate BS. Figure 3and Figure 6 As shown, the first direction Y is vertical.

[0071] In the embodiment of the present invention, the second direction X is parallel to the substrate BS, and the second direction X intersects the first direction Y. For example, the second direction X is perpendicular to the first direction Y. Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, the second direction X is the horizontal direction.

[0072] In the embodiment of the present invention, the third direction Z is perpendicular to the base substrate BS, that is, the third direction Z is perpendicular to the first direction Y and perpendicular to the second direction X.

[0073] like Figures 3 to 6 As shown, different sub-pixels 100 are separated so that the second electrodes E2 (VSS terminals) of different sub-pixels are independent of each other. Thus, each sub-pixel 100 can have a different cathode voltage.

[0074] For example, Figure 4 As shown, the separation structure P0 further includes a second separation portion P2, which is configured to disconnect the second electrodes E2 of different sub-pixels. The second electrodes E2 of different sub-pixels are disconnected at the second separation portion P2.

[0075] like Figure 4 As shown, the pixel defining layer PDL further includes a third opening OPN3 , and the second electrode E2 is disconnected at the third opening OPN3 .

[0076] like Figure 4 As shown, the second electrodes E2 of different sub-pixels are disconnected at the second separation portion P2 and the third opening OPN3.

[0077] In some display panels, the second electrodes E2 of different sub-pixels may be disconnected by providing the second separation portion P2 and the third opening OPN3 , or by other methods.

[0078] like Figure 4 As shown, the pixel defining layer PDL forms an undercut structure at the second separation portion P2 to facilitate isolating the second electrodes E2 of different sub-pixels.

[0079] For example, Figure 4 As shown, the second separation portion P2 contacts the insulating layer LL and the pixel definition layer PDL. The second separation portion P2 may also be an integral structure with the pixel definition layer PDL.

[0080] In an embodiment of the present invention, the first separation portion P1 can be made of either a conductive material or an insulating material, and the second separation portion P2 can be made of either a conductive material or an insulating material. The materials of the first separation portion P1 and the second separation portion P2 can be the same or different. For example, the conductive material includes metal, and the insulating material includes organic insulating materials and inorganic insulating materials. Organic insulating materials include, but are not limited to, resins. Inorganic insulating materials include at least one of silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride.

[0081] Figure 5 The display panel shown disconnects the second electrodes E2 of different sub-pixels by providing a third separating portion P3 in an inverted trapezoidal shape.

[0082] For example, Figure 3 As shown, the connection electrode CE is configured to extend in a direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the evaporation source when the connection electrode CE is formed by the evaporation process. Figure 3 As shown, the moving direction of the evaporation source is the second direction X.

[0083] For example, the display area 201 and the gate driving area 202 on the array are arranged along the second direction X, and the first direction Y intersects the second direction X.

[0084] For example, Figure 3 As shown, no connecting electrode CE is provided in a direction parallel to the direction of movement of the evaporation source. The periphery of the luminous area 66 is divided into a direction parallel to the direction of movement of the evaporation source and a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the evaporation source. For example, the first direction Y is perpendicular to the direction of movement of the evaporation source, and the second direction X is parallel to the direction of movement of the evaporation source. The connecting electrode CE is provided outside the luminous area 66 and in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the evaporation source. No connecting electrode CE is provided in a direction parallel to the direction of movement of the evaporation source.

[0085] Figure 4 and Figure 5 The light-emitting functional layer FL is shown. It is located between the first electrode E1 and the second electrode E2. The light-emitting functional layer FL includes a first light-emitting functional portion FL1 and a second light-emitting functional portion FL2. It should be noted that the configuration of the light-emitting functional layer FL is not limited to that shown in the figure and can be adjusted as needed. For example, the second light-emitting functional portion FL2 can be fabricated using an open mask. The second light-emitting functional portion FL2 can be referred to as a common layer.

[0086] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the display panel includes insulating layers L0 to L5. The insulating layers L0 to L3 can be made of inorganic insulating materials, and the insulating layers L4 to L5 can be made of organic insulating materials.

[0087] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the pixel definition layer (PDL) can be made of an organic insulating material, or a combination of an organic insulating material and an inorganic insulating material. For example, the pixel definition layer (PDL) can include multiple sublayers. The multiple sublayers of the pixel definition layer (PDL) can be made of suitable materials as needed. For example, some sublayers can be made of organic insulating materials, while others can be made of inorganic insulating materials.

[0088] like Figure 4 As shown, the third separation portion P3 can be made of organic insulating material. The pixel definition layer PDL and the third separation portion P3 can be an integrated structure or a separate structure.

[0089] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the display panel includes an encapsulation layer ECS, which is used to encapsulate the light-emitting elements to prevent water from invading.

[0090] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the display panel includes a conductive structure A0, a conductive structure G0, and a connector S0. For example, the conductive structure A0 and the conductive structure G0 form a capacitor. The connector S0 is used to connect to other components.

[0091] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the pixel circuit is an NMOS circuit and the light emitting element (OLED device) is inverted.

[0092] Because the connecting electrode and the cathode in conventional technology are overlapped in the shape of a point, and because a common layer must be evaporated before forming the cathode, wanting to cover a very thin cathode with the common layer and connect it to the connecting electrode will test process factors such as the evaporation angle of the process. Even if the connection is successful, the connection area will be very small, which will inevitably lead to a large contact resistance and easy heat generation when the current is large, which is not conducive to obtaining display quality such as high brightness.

[0093] Figure 7 The evaporation situation of the evaporation source at different times is shown. When the evaporation source moves, the evaporation material (cathode) with a large angle of movement can well exceed the second light-emitting functional part FL2 and overlap with the connecting electrode CE. At time t1, the material at the evaporation line La and the evaporation line Lb has an eaves protruding from the undercut structure (such as Figure 7 At time t2, the cathode material deposited at the evaporation line Lb can be connected to the connection electrode CE because the evaporation source moves.

[0094] For example, Figure 3As shown, the length of the connecting electrode CE in its extension direction is greater than or equal to the length of the light-emitting area close to the connecting electrode CE in the extension direction. The length of the connecting electrode CE in the extension direction is consistent with the length of the sub-pixel, or slightly longer, so as to maximize the contact area.

[0095] If the connecting electrode CE extends parallel to the evaporation direction, the aforementioned effects will not occur as the evaporation source moves. This can lead to poor overlap between the evaporated cathode material of some sub-pixels and the connecting electrode CE. Furthermore, the edges, being farther from the evaporation source, can be deposited at wide angles, while the center lacks sufficient material to achieve wide-angle deposition, resulting in poor overlap. Consequently, uneven overlap resistance between the center and edge regions of the display panel can lead to uneven display. Therefore, parallel connecting electrodes CE can be omitted, saving space and increasing the overall pixel aperture ratio.

[0096] Compared with the point-like connection method of the inverted OLED in conventional technology, in the display panel provided by the embodiment of the present invention, the design of the connecting electrode CE can increase the effective contact area while saving space as much as possible and improving the aperture ratio.

[0097] Figure 8 A schematic plan view of a display panel provided by an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 A schematic plan view of a display panel provided in another embodiment of the present invention.

[0098] like Figure 3 and Figure 8 As shown, the plurality of sub-pixels 100 include a first color sub-pixel 101, a second color sub-pixel 102, and a third color sub-pixel 103. For example, the first color sub-pixel 101 is a red sub-pixel, the second color sub-pixel 102 is a green sub-pixel, and the third color sub-pixel 103 is a blue sub-pixel, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0099] For example, Figure 8 As shown, among the connection electrodes CE corresponding to the light-emitting areas 66 in the same column, the connection electrodes CE corresponding to two adjacent light-emitting areas 66 are located on different sides of the corresponding light-emitting areas 66. That is, each light-emitting area 66 corresponds to one connection electrode CE, and for the same column of light-emitting areas 66, the connection electrodes CE corresponding to two adjacent rows of light-emitting areas 66 are located on different sides of the corresponding light-emitting areas 66. For the connection electrodes CE corresponding to the same column of light-emitting areas 66, the connection electrodes CE are alternately arranged on opposite sides of the light-emitting area 66. Figure 8 There are shown multiple columns of sub-pixels 100. The multiple sub-pixels 100 include first color sub-pixels 101, second color sub-pixels 102, and third color sub-pixels 103.

[0100] For example, Figure 8 As shown, for the first column of sub-pixels (first color sub-pixels 101), the connection electrodes CE corresponding to two adjacent light-emitting areas 66 are located on different sides of their corresponding light-emitting areas 66, i.e., on the left and right sides. For example, for the second column of sub-pixels (second color sub-pixels 102), the connection electrodes CE corresponding to two adjacent light-emitting areas 66 are located on different sides of their corresponding light-emitting areas 66, i.e., on the left and right sides. For example, for the third column of sub-pixels (third color sub-pixels 103), the connection electrodes CE corresponding to two adjacent light-emitting areas 66 are located on different sides of their corresponding light-emitting areas 66, i.e., on the left and right sides. Figure 8 Taking the case where the sub-pixels in the same column emit the same color as an example, of course, in other embodiments, the sub-pixels in the same column may emit different colors.

[0101] Of course, for the same column of light-emitting areas 66 , the connecting electrodes CE may also be arranged alternately with multiple rows of light-emitting areas 66 .

[0102] For example, Figure 9 As shown, the connection electrode CE includes two connection electrode portions CEc and CEd spaced apart from each other, and the two connection electrode portions CEc and CEd are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the light emitting region 66. Figure 9 It is shown that the two connection electrode portions CEc and CEd are respectively provided on the left and right sides of the light emitting region 66. That is, the connection electrode portions CEc and CEd are respectively provided on two opposite sides of the same light emitting region 66.

[0103] Figure 10 This is a schematic plan view of a display panel provided by an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 As shown, each light emitting area 66 corresponds to a connection electrode CE, and the connection electrodes CE corresponding to the light emitting areas 66 in the same column are arranged in a disordered manner. In the embodiment of the present utility model, the disordered arrangement means that the connection electrodes CE are not arranged in an alternating manner.

[0104] Because the connection electrodes CE include metal and can reflect external light, if all the connection electrodes CE are arranged on one side of the sub-pixel, they may be visually connected into a line and recognized by the human eye when reflecting light.

[0105] In the embodiment of the present invention, the connection electrodes CE may be arranged on one side of the sub-pixel, or may be arranged alternately or randomly on both sides of the sub-pixel, or may be arranged on both sides of the sub-pixel. If the connection electrodes CE are arranged alternately or randomly, the probability of being recognized by the human eye can be reduced. If the connection electrodes CE are arranged on both sides of the sub-pixel, the contact area can be increased, further reducing the resistance.

[0106] Figure 11A schematic diagram of a light-emitting area of ​​a connection electrode and a sub-pixel in a display panel provided by an embodiment of the present invention.

[0107] like Figure 11 As shown in (a) in FIG. 5 , the light emitting area 66 is elliptical and the connecting electrode CE is arc-shaped.

[0108] like Figure 11 As shown in (b) of FIG. 5 , the light emitting area 66 is elliptical, and the connecting electrode CE is zigzag-line shaped. The connecting electrode CE includes a plurality of strip-shaped portions extending along different straight lines.

[0109] like Figure 11 As shown in (c) in FIG. 5 , the light emitting area 66 is hexagonal, and the connecting electrode CE is linear, which can also be called a strip.

[0110] like Figure 11 As shown in (d) of FIG. 5 , the light emitting area 66 is hexagonal, and the connecting electrode CE is in a zigzag shape. The connecting electrode CE includes a plurality of strip-shaped portions extending along different straight lines.

[0111] For example, Figure 11 As shown, the connection electrode CE may extend along a straight line and be in a bar shape, an arc shape, a curve shape, or include a plurality of portions extending along different straight lines and each being in a bar shape.

[0112] In the embodiment of the present invention, the connection electrode CE can adopt various shapes. The embodiment of the present invention does not limit the shape of the connection electrode CE, as long as it can facilitate the connection between the connection electrode CE and the second electrode E2.

[0113] It should be noted that the embodiment of the present invention does not limit the shape of the light-emitting area 66 and can be adjusted as needed. For example, the light-emitting area 66 can be circular, elliptical, polygonal, etc. For example, polygons include rectangles, pentagons, hexagons, and octagons.

[0114] Figure 12 A schematic diagram of a display panel provided in one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12 As shown, the pixel arrangement adopts a diamond shape, the sub-pixels 100 are polygonal in shape, and the connection electrodes CE are arranged in an alternating manner. Each light-emitting area 66 corresponds to a connection electrode CE. For the same column of sub-pixels 100, two adjacent connection electrodes CE are respectively located on the upper left and lower right sides of the corresponding light-emitting area 66. For example, Figure 12 As shown, the sub-pixels in the same column emit different colors.

[0115] It should be noted that the embodiments of the present invention do not limit the pixel arrangement.

[0116] As described above, in order to improve the reliability of the cathode overlap in the undercut structure and maximize the aperture ratio of the light-emitting area, the embodiment of the present invention designs the shape and position of the overlap portion.

[0117] like Figure 3 、 Figures 8 to 10 ,as well as Figure 12 As shown, multiple sub-pixels 100 include a first color sub-pixel 101, a second color sub-pixel 102, and a third color sub-pixel 103; at least two of the connecting electrodes CE of the first color sub-pixel 101, the connecting electrodes CE of the second color sub-pixel 102, and the connecting electrodes CE of the third color sub-pixel 103 have different lengths in the first direction Y.

[0118] like Figure 3 ,as well as Figures 8 to 12 As shown, the length of the connecting electrode CE of the first color sub-pixel 101 in the first direction Y is different from the length of the connecting electrode CE of the second color sub-pixel 102 in the first direction Y. For example, the length of the connecting electrode CE of the first color sub-pixel 101 in the first direction Y is greater than the length of the connecting electrode CE of the second color sub-pixel 102 in the first direction Y.

[0119] like Figure 3 ,as well as Figures 8 to 12 As shown, the length of the connecting electrode CE of the second color sub-pixel 102 in the first direction Y is different from the length of the connecting electrode CE of the third color sub-pixel 103 in the first direction Y. For example, the length of the connecting electrode CE of the second color sub-pixel 102 in the first direction Y is smaller than the length of the connecting electrode CE of the third color sub-pixel 103 in the first direction Y.

[0120] like Figure 3 ,as well as Figures 8 to 10 As shown, the length of the connecting electrode CE of the first color sub-pixel 101 in the first direction Y and the length of the connecting electrode CE of the third color sub-pixel 103 in the first direction Y may be equal or unequal.

[0121] like Figure 3 ,as well as Figures 8 to 12 As shown, the length of the first color subpixel 101 in the first direction Y is different from the length of the second color subpixel 102 in the first direction Y. For example, the length of the first color subpixel 101 in the first direction Y is greater than the length of the second color subpixel 102 in the first direction Y.

[0122] like Figure 3 ,as well as Figures 8 to 12As shown, the length of the second color subpixel 102 in the first direction Y is different from the length of the third color subpixel 103 in the first direction Y. For example, the length of the second color subpixel 102 in the first direction Y is smaller than the length of the third color subpixel 103 in the first direction Y.

[0123] like Figure 3 ,as well as Figures 8 to 12 As shown, the length of the first color sub-pixel 101 in the first direction Y and the length of the third color sub-pixel 103 in the first direction Y may be equal or unequal.

[0124] The length of the connection electrode CE of the sub-pixel in the first direction Y may be associated with the length of the sub-pixel in the first direction Y.

[0125] The length of the sub-pixel 100 in the first direction Y refers to the length of the light-emitting region 66 (the second opening OPN2 ) of the sub-pixel in the first direction Y.

[0126] For example, Figure 3 、 Figures 8 to 12 As shown, for the same sub-pixel, the ratio of the length of the connecting electrode CE in the first direction Y to the maximum length of the second opening (pixel opening) OPN2 in the first direction Y is in the range of 0.6-1.5. For further example, the ratio is in the range of 0.8-1.2.

[0127] For example, Figure 3 、 Figures 8 to 12 As shown, for the same sub-pixel, the ratio of the maximum length of the second opening (pixel opening) OPN2 in the first direction Y to the maximum length of the first opening OPN1 in the first direction Y is in the range of 0.6-1.5. For another example, the ratio is in the range of 0.8-1.2. The maximum length of the first opening OPN1 in the first direction Y can be regarded as the maximum length of the connection electrode CE at the corresponding position in the figure in the first direction Y.

[0128] Figure 13 The present invention is a schematic plan view of a partial structure of a display panel provided by an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 A schematic cross-sectional view of a display panel provided by an embodiment of the present invention. Figures 15 to 17 A schematic plan view of a display panel provided in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0129] For example, Figure 2 、 Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, the display panel further includes a power line PL1 , which is connected to the first electrode E1 of the light emitting element.

[0130] like Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the power line PL1 and the first electrode E1 of the light emitting element may be an integral structure. That is, the power line PL1 and the first electrode E1 of the light emitting element are located in the same layer and are integrally formed.

[0131] like Figure 14 As shown, the power line PL1 and the first electrode E1 of the light emitting element are located in different layers and are connected through a via V0. Figure 14 As shown, the via hole V0 passes through the planarization layer PLN1 and the planarization layer PLN2.

[0132] like Figure 4 、 Figure 5 and Figure 14 As shown, the connection electrode CE is connected to the connection line CC, and the connection line CC is connected to the pixel circuit PXC.

[0133] Figure 14 The electrodes SDa, SDb, SDc, and SDd are shown. The electrodes SDa and SDb are connected to the active layer AT, respectively. Figure 14 The gate GE1 and the gate GE2 are shown. The gate GE1 and the gate GE2 can be a bottom gate and a top gate, respectively. The gate GE1 and the gate GE2 can be connected to each other or not.

[0134] Figure 14 A gate insulating layer GI1 , an interlayer insulating layer ILD1 , a gate insulating layer GI2 , an interlayer insulating layer ILD2 , a passivation layer PVX, a planarization layer PLN1 , a planarization layer PLN2 , a pixel defining layer PDL, and a base substrate BS are shown. Figure 14 The following description takes the base substrate BS including the buffer layer BF1 , the barrier layer BR1 , the barrier layer BR2 , the first base substrate PI1 , and the second base substrate PI2 as an example, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The structure of the base substrate BS can be adjusted as needed.

[0135] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the display panel further includes a conductive structure G11, a conductive structure G21, and a conductive structure SD0. For example, the conductive structure G11 is connected to the conductive structure SD0, and the conductive structure G21 and the conductive structure G11 form a capacitor.

[0136] For example, Figures 15 to 17 As shown, the power line PL1 includes a power signal line PL11 extending along the second direction X and a power connection line PL12 extending along the first direction Y. The power signal line PL11 and the power connection line PL12 are connected to each other. For example, the power signal line PL11 and the power connection line PL12 are an integral structure.

[0137] For example, Figures 15 to 17As shown, two adjacent columns of light-emitting elements share a common power line PL12. Compared to providing a separate power line PL12 for each column of light-emitting elements, this reduces the resistance of the power line PL1, facilitates connection to the first electrode E1 (anode), reduces the light-emitting area of ​​the first electrode E1 (anode) wasted due to the power line PL1 connection, and reduces metal line reflection. For example, the layout of adjacent sub-pixel columns can be designed as a mirror image.

[0138] For example, Figures 15 to 17 As shown, the power signal line PL11 and the power connection line PL12 are integrated. To reduce resistance and minimize differences between regions, the power line PL1 is meshed. This meshed power line PL1 also improves layout flexibility and reduces routing pressure in the lower pad (PAD) area, thereby increasing routing space in the lower PAD area.

[0139] For example, Figures 15 to 17 As shown, the power signal line PL11 includes a first widened portion W1. To facilitate layout design, the first widened portions W1 of two adjacent power signal lines PL11 are staggered. Figures 15 to 17 As shown, the first widened portions W1 of two adjacent power signal lines PL11 are staggered in the second direction X, i.e., staggered in the transverse direction. The widened areas (first widened portions W1) of the power signal lines PL11 are staggered in two adjacent rows to improve layout flexibility.

[0140] like Figures 15 to 17 As shown, the first widened portions W1 corresponding to the same column of light-emitting areas 66 are misaligned. For example, the first widened portions W11 corresponding to the same column of light-emitting areas 66 in even-numbered rows are positioned to the right, while the first widened portions W12 corresponding to the same column of light-emitting areas 66 in odd-numbered rows are positioned to the left. For example, the left and right ends of the first widened portions W1 corresponding to the same column of light-emitting areas 66 are misaligned. For example, the first widened portions W1 corresponding to the same column of light-emitting areas 66 are of uniform size. The first widened portion W1 includes the first widened portion W11 and the first widened portion W12.

[0141] For example, Figures 15 to 17 As shown, a plurality of first widened portions W1 are provided corresponding to light emitting elements emitting light of the same color. Figures 15 to 17 A plurality of first widened portions W1 are provided corresponding to the light emitting elements emitting the third color light (third color sub-pixels 103 ).

[0142] For example, Figures 15 to 17 As shown, the plurality of first widening portions W1 are provided corresponding to the largest luminous area emitting the same color light. The luminous area 66 of the third color sub-pixel 103 is the largest, and the plurality of first widening portions W1 are provided corresponding to the luminous area of ​​the third color sub-pixel 103.

[0143] For example, Figures 15 to 17 As shown, a plurality of light-emitting elements are provided, and the plurality of light-emitting elements include a first light-emitting element M1, a second light-emitting element M2, and a third light-emitting element M3. The first light-emitting element M1 is configured to emit a first color light, the second light-emitting element M2 is configured to emit a second color light, and the third light-emitting element M3 is configured to emit a third color light. The first light-emitting element M1 and the second light-emitting element M2 are located on the same side of the third light-emitting element M3 and are arranged along the first direction Y. The first widened portion W1 is provided corresponding to the third light-emitting element M3.

[0144] For example, Figure 17 As shown, the power line PL1 further includes a connecting bus BL, and one connecting bus BL corresponds to at least two columns of power connection lines PL12.

[0145] For example, Figure 17 As shown, the connecting bus BL has a second widened portion W2. Figure 17 As shown, the second widened portion W2 extends along the first direction Y, and the first widened portion W1 extends along the second direction X. The first widened portion W1 and the second widened portion W2 extend in different directions. The first widened portion W1 and the second widened portion W2 extend in directions that intersect. The first widened portion W1 and the second widened portion W2 can have the same or different dimensions.

[0146] For example, Figure 17 As shown, the power line PL1 in the lower frame area is designed to have a one-drive-two or one-drive-four effect, reducing the routing in the edge area of ​​the lower frame, reducing the number of routing in the rounded corner area, achieving a narrow frame, and effectively reducing the number of routing in the lower edge area.

[0147] like Figure 14 As shown, the display panel includes a separation structure, the separation structure includes a separation part P4, the separation part P4 includes a main body P41 and a roof P42, the roof P42 extends out of the main body P41 to form an eaves, that is, the roof P42 protrudes from the main body P41 to facilitate isolation of the light-emitting functional layer FL and the second electrode E2.

[0148] like Figure 14 As shown, in the ELEAP technology, the second electrode E2 is connected to the connection electrode CC through the main body P41. The main body P41 is conductive. For example, the main body P41 can be made of metal material.

[0149] The roof P42 can be made of conductive material or insulating material. The conductive material and the insulating material can be made of the materials described above, which will not be repeated here.

[0150] For example, the main body P41 and the roof P42 may be made of different materials or the same material.

[0151] like Figure 14As shown, the second electrode E2 (cathode) is connected to the pixel circuit PXC. The second electrode E2 (cathode) is connected to the pixel circuit PXC through the body P41, the connection structure CC0, and the connection line CC.

[0152] like Figure 14 As shown, the second electrode E2 (cathode) is connected to the connection structure CC0 through the main body P41, the connection structure CC0 is connected to the connection line CC, and the connection line CC is connected to the pixel circuit PXC, which can achieve the effect of cathode resistance reduction.

[0153] For example, Figure 14 As shown, the encapsulation layer ECS includes an inorganic encapsulation film ECS1, an organic encapsulation film ECS2, and an inorganic encapsulation film ECS3. The inorganic encapsulation films ECS1 and ECS3 are made of inorganic insulating materials, and the organic encapsulation film ECS2 is made of organic insulating materials.

[0154] In addition, the display panel structure provided by the embodiment of the present invention is suitable for inverted OLEDs with full N-type pixel circuits, and its light-emitting device structure is consistent with the conventional structure, eliminating the need for new material development, effectively reducing development costs.

[0155] The embodiment of the present invention also provides a method for manufacturing a display panel, such as Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 14 As shown, it includes: forming a pixel circuit PXC on a base substrate BS; forming an insulating layer LL on the pixel circuit PXC; forming a connecting electrode CE electrically connected to the pixel circuit PXC on the insulating layer LL; forming a first electrode E1 of a light-emitting element on the insulating layer LL; forming a separation structure P0, the separation structure P0 includes a first separation portion P1; forming a pixel defining layer PDL, the pixel defining layer PDL includes a first opening OPN1 and a second opening OPN2, the first opening OPN1 is configured to expose at least a portion of the connecting electrode CE, the second opening OPN2 is configured to expose at least a portion of the first electrode E1 of the light-emitting element to define a light-emitting area of ​​the light-emitting element; and forming a second electrode E2 of the light-emitting element on the pixel defining layer PDL, the second electrode E2 is connected to the connecting electrode CE through the first opening OPN1 of the pixel defining layer PDL. As shown Figure 3 、 Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 As shown, the display panel includes a display area 201 and a gate driving area 202 on the array. The gate driving area 202 on the array is located on one side of the display area 201. The boundary between the display area 201 and the gate driving area 202 on the array extends along the first direction Y, and the connecting electrode CE extends along the first direction Y.

[0156] Figure 14The main body P41 in the figure is the connecting electrode CE.

[0157] exist Figure 14 In the embodiment, the first opening OPN1 and the second opening OPN2 are the same opening.

[0158] Figure 14 The separation part P4 in the Figure 4 and Figure 5 The separation structure P0 (first separation part P1) in.

[0159] For example, Figure 3 As shown, in the method for manufacturing the display panel, forming the connection electrode CE includes: the connection electrode CE is arranged to extend in a direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the evaporation source when the connection electrode CE is formed in the evaporation process.

[0160] For example, Figures 8 to 12 As shown, in the method for manufacturing a display panel, the connection electrode CE is not provided in the direction parallel to the moving direction of the evaporation source.

[0161] The effects in the method for manufacturing the display panel may correspond to the technical effects in the display panel, and will not be described in detail here.

[0162] Figure 14 It is a display panel formed using ELEAP (E: environment positive, L: lithography with maskless deposition, E: extreme long life, low power, and high luminance, AP: any shape patterning) technology.

[0163] For example, in the ELEAP technology, the display panel is formed by forming the material of the light-emitting element (including the light-emitting functional layer FL and the second electrode E2) on the entire surface, and then removing the material in unnecessary areas by etching.

[0164] like Figure 14As shown, the material of the light-emitting element emitting the first color light (including the light-emitting functional layer FL and the second electrode E2) is formed on the entire substrate, the material is retained in the area of ​​the first color sub-pixel, the material is removed in the area of ​​the second color sub-pixel and the area of ​​the third color sub-pixel, and the material is retained in the non-display area to facilitate the isolation of the light-emitting functional layer and the second electrode at the isolation structure; the material of the light-emitting element emitting the second color light (including the light-emitting functional layer FL and the second electrode E2) is formed on the entire substrate, the material is retained in the area of ​​the second color sub-pixel, the material is removed in the area of ​​the first color sub-pixel and the area of ​​the third color sub-pixel, and the material is retained in the non-display area to facilitate the isolation of the light-emitting functional layer and the second electrode at the isolation structure; the material of the light-emitting element emitting the third color light (including the light-emitting functional layer FL and the second electrode E2) is formed on the entire substrate, the material is retained in the area of ​​the third color sub-pixel, the material is removed in the area of ​​the first color sub-pixel and the area of ​​the second color sub-pixel, and the material is retained in the non-display area to facilitate the isolation of the light-emitting functional layer and the second electrode at the isolation structure. The partition structure at the non-display area adjacent to the display area may be formed of materials of a light-emitting element (including the light-emitting functional layer FL and the second electrode E2 ) that emits light of two different colors.

[0165] The partition structure is formed at the same time as the light-emitting element is formed, and there is no need to make a separate cathode isolation part (isolation column), thereby realizing cathode patterning and improving the display quality of the full N-type pixel circuit.

[0166] The same problem of cathode overlap exists in ELEAP technology. Of course, this problem is not limited to ELEAP technology; display panels formed using fine metal masks also face this problem. All technologies involving cathode overlap in undercut structures can be addressed using the solutions provided by the embodiments of the present invention.

[0167] In ELEAP technology, the cathode overlap can be structured to surround the sub-pixels in a complete circle. However, in the area parallel to the evaporation source, the overlap between the center and edge pixels will be inconsistent, resulting in uneven display screens. Therefore, the design provided in the embodiments of this utility model can also be used to optimize ELEAP technology.

[0168] The embodiments of the present invention are described using an example in which a plurality of sub-pixels 100 include a first color sub-pixel 101, a second color sub-pixel 102, and a third color sub-pixel 103, and the first color sub-pixel 101, the second color sub-pixel 102, and the third color sub-pixel 103 constitute a pixel. For example, the first color sub-pixel 101 is a red sub-pixel, the second color sub-pixel 102 is a green sub-pixel, and the third color sub-pixel 103 is a blue sub-pixel. However, the embodiments of the present invention include but are not limited to this. The number of sub-pixels included in a pixel can be determined as needed, and the luminous colors of the sub-pixels are not limited to red, green, and blue, and can be determined as needed.

[0169] An embodiment of the present invention further provides a display device, comprising any one of the above-mentioned display panels.

[0170] For example, the display device may be any product or component with a display function, such as a television, a digital camera, a mobile phone, a watch, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a navigator, etc., that includes an organic light emitting diode display device.

[0171] There are a few points to note:

[0172] (1) Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used herein shall have the common meanings understood by persons having ordinary skills in the field to which the present invention belongs.

[0173] (2) The drawings of the embodiments of the present invention only relate to the structures related to the embodiments of the present invention, and other structures may refer to conventional designs.

[0174] (3) For the sake of clarity, the thickness of layers or regions in the drawings used to describe embodiments of the present invention are exaggerated. It is understood that when an element such as a layer, film, region, or substrate is referred to as being "on" or "under" another element, the element may be "directly on" or "under" the other element, or intervening elements may be present.

[0175] (4) Unless there is any conflict, the embodiments of the present invention and the features therein may be combined with each other.

[0176] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any modifications or substitutions that can be easily conceived by a person skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be based on the scope of protection of the claims.

Claims

1. A display panel, characterized in that: include: substrate; A pixel circuit is located on the substrate; an insulating layer, located on the pixel circuit; a connecting electrode, located on the insulating layer and electrically connected to the pixel circuit; a first electrode of the light-emitting element, located on the insulating layer; The separation structure includes a first separation portion; a pixel defining layer comprising a first opening configured to expose at least a portion of the connection electrode; as well as The second electrode of the light-emitting element is disposed on the pixel defining layer and is connected to the connection electrode through the first opening of the pixel defining layer. The pixel defining layer further includes a second opening, wherein the second opening is configured to expose at least a portion of the first electrode of the light-emitting element to define a light-emitting area of ​​the light-emitting element. The display panel includes a display area and a gate drive area on an array, the gate drive area on the array is located on one side of the display area, the boundary between the display area and the gate drive area on the array extends along a first direction, and the connecting electrode extends along the first direction.

2. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein: The connecting electrode extends along a straight line and is in a strip shape, an arc shape, a curve shape, or includes a plurality of parts extending along different straight lines and each of which is in a strip shape.

3. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein: The length of the connecting electrode in the extending direction thereof is greater than or equal to the length of the light emitting region close to the connecting electrode in the extending direction.

4. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein: Each light-emitting area corresponds to a connecting electrode, and among the connecting electrodes corresponding to the light-emitting areas in the same column, the connecting electrodes are arranged alternately or in a disorderly manner.

5. The display panel according to claim 4, wherein: The connecting electrodes corresponding to two adjacent light-emitting areas are located on different sides of the corresponding light-emitting areas.

6. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein: The connecting electrode includes two connecting electrode parts spaced apart from each other, and the two connecting electrode parts are respectively arranged on two opposite sides of the light emitting area.

7. The display panel according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The device further comprises a power line connected to the first electrode of the light emitting element.

8. The display panel according to claim 7, wherein: The power lines include power signal lines extending along a second direction and power connection lines extending along the first direction. The second direction intersects the first direction, and two adjacent columns of light emitting elements share the same power connection line.

9. The display panel according to claim 8, wherein: The power lines are in a mesh shape.

10. The display panel according to claim 9, wherein: The power signal line includes a first widened portion, and the first widened portions of two adjacent power signal lines are staggered.

11. The display panel according to claim 10, wherein: The plurality of first widened portions are arranged corresponding to the light emitting elements emitting light of the same color.

12. The display panel according to claim 10, wherein: A plurality of light-emitting elements are provided, including a first light-emitting element, a second light-emitting element, and a third light-emitting element. The first light-emitting element is configured to emit a first color light, the second light-emitting element is configured to emit a second color light, and the third light-emitting element is configured to emit a third color light. The first light-emitting element and the second light-emitting element are located on the same side of the third light-emitting element and are arranged along the first direction. The first widened portion is arranged corresponding to the third light-emitting element.

13. The display panel according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that: The power line also includes a connection bus, and one connection bus corresponds to at least two columns of power connection lines.

14. The display panel according to claim 13, wherein: The connecting bus has a second widened portion, and an extending direction of the second widened portion intersects with an extending direction of the first widened portion.

15. The display panel according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The separation structure further includes a second separation portion configured to disconnect the second electrodes of different sub-pixels.

16. The display panel according to claim 15, wherein: The second separation portion is in contact with the insulating layer, in contact with the pixel defining layer, or is an integral structure with the pixel defining layer.

17. The display panel according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The connection electrode is configured to extend in a direction perpendicular to a moving direction of an evaporation source when the connection electrode is formed by an evaporation process.

18. The display panel according to claim 17, wherein: No connection electrode is provided in a direction parallel to the direction in which the vapor deposition source moves.

19. The display panel according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The display area and the gate driving area on the array are arranged along a second direction, and the first direction intersects with the second direction.

20. The display panel according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The pixel circuits of different sub-pixels are connected to different second electrodes to independently control the voltage on the second electrode of each sub-pixel, and the first electrodes of the plurality of sub-pixels have the same voltage.

21. The display panel according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The light-emitting element is provided in plurality to form a plurality of sub-pixels, the plurality of sub-pixels including a first color sub-pixel, a second color sub-pixel, and a third color sub-pixel, the first color sub-pixel being configured to emit a first color light, the second color sub-pixel being configured to emit a second color light, and the third color sub-pixel being configured to emit a third color light. At least two of the connecting electrode of the first color sub-pixel, the connecting electrode of the second color sub-pixel, and the connecting electrode of the third color sub-pixel have different lengths in the first direction.

22. The display panel according to claim 21, wherein: The length of the connecting electrode of the first color sub-pixel in the first direction is different from the length of the connecting electrode of the second color sub-pixel in the first direction.

23. The display panel according to claim 21, wherein: The length of the connecting electrode of the second color sub-pixel in the first direction is different from the length of the connecting electrode of the third color sub-pixel in the first direction.

24. The display panel according to claim 21, wherein For the same sub-pixel, a ratio of a length of the connecting electrode in the first direction to a maximum length of the second opening in the first direction is in a range of 0.6-1.

5.

25. The display panel according to claim 21, wherein For the same sub-pixel, a ratio of a maximum length of the second opening in the first direction to a maximum length of the first opening in the first direction is in a range of 0.6-1.

5.

26. A display device, characterized in that: Comprising the display panel according to any one of claims 1-25.

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