Display device

Abstract

The utility model relates to a display device. The display device includes: a substrate; a light emitting element layer disposed on the substrate and including a plurality of light emitting elements; and a light control layer provided on the light emitting element layer. The light control layer includes: a light transmissive film including a plurality of regions spaced apart from each other; a first blocking layer disposed on the light-transmitting film; and a light blocking film including a plurality of regions on the first blocking layer and disposed between the regions of the light transmitting film. The first blocking layer covers an upper surface and a side surface of a region of the light-transmitting film.

Description

[0001] Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0183449, filed on December 15, 2023, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, and to all the benefits accruing therefrom under 35 U.S.C. § 119, the contents of which in its entirety are incorporated herein by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a display device. BACKGROUND

[0004] As the information society develops, the demand for devices capable of displaying images is also increasing and diversifying. Some common display devices currently include liquid crystal displays (LCDs), field emission displays (FEDs), and light emitting displays (LEDs). For example, a light emitting display can be an organic light emitting display including an organic light emitting diode element as a light emitting element, or can be an inorganic light emitting display including an inorganic light emitting diode element as a light emitting element.

[0005] For some applications, a display device can need a controlled or limited viewing angle. For example, it can be necessary to limit the viewing angle of an image displayed on a display device in front of a driver or a passenger in a vehicle to prevent the image from being reflected from a windshield and hindering the driving of the vehicle. It can also be necessary to control the viewing angle of an image displayed on a display device for a vehicle to protect, for example, privacy, such that the image displayed on a display device in front of a driver is not visible to a passenger. SUMMARY

[0006] Aspects of the present disclosure can provide a display device in which the reliability of a light control layer is improved.

[0007] Aspects of the present disclosure can also improve a process of forming a light control layer in a display device.

[0008] The aspects of the present disclosure are not limited to those set forth in this document. The above and other aspects of the present disclosure will become more apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains by referencing the detailed description of the present disclosure given below.

[0009] According to aspects of the present disclosure, a display device can include a substrate, a light emitting element layer disposed on the substrate and including a plurality of light emitting elements, and a light control layer disposed on the light emitting element layer. The light control layer can include a light transmission film including a plurality of regions spaced apart from each other, a first blocking layer disposed on the light transmission film, and a light blocking film including a plurality of regions disposed on the first blocking layer and respectively disposed between the regions of the light transmission film. The first blocking layer covers upper surfaces and side surfaces of the regions of the light transmission film.

[0010] In an embodiment, the first blocking layer is conformally disposed on the regions of the light transmission film.

[0011] In an embodiment, each of the regions of the light blocking film includes a protruding portion protruding from the upper surface of the first blocking layer or the upper surface of the light transmission film.

[0012] In an embodiment, the display device can further include an outer coating layer disposed on the first blocking layer and the regions of the light blocking film and covering the upper surface and the side surface of the protruding portion.

[0013] In an embodiment, the display device can further include a second blocking layer disposed on the regions of the light blocking film, wherein the second blocking layer includes a plurality of regions disposed on the regions of the light blocking film, respectively.

[0014] In an embodiment, the second blocking layer includes an inorganic material, and the light transmission film includes an organic material.

[0015] In an embodiment, the light control layer further includes a light transmission lower film including a plurality of regions disposed below the regions of the light transmission film, respectively.

[0016] In an embodiment, the light transmission lower film includes an organic material, and the light transmission film includes an organic material.

[0017] In an embodiment, the display device can further include a dam disposed on the substrate on a side of the plurality of light emitting elements and including the same material as the light transmission lower film.

[0018] In an embodiment, the regions of the light transmission film are disposed closer to the plurality of light emitting elements than the dam.

[0019] According to an aspect of the disclosure, a display device includes a substrate; a light emitting element layer disposed on the substrate and including a plurality of light emitting elements; and a light control layer disposed on the light emitting element layer, wherein the light control layer includes a light transmission film including a plurality of first openings, a first blocking layer disposed on the light transmission film, and a light blocking film including a plurality of regions disposed on the first blocking layer and disposed in the plurality of first openings, respectively, and the first blocking layer covers an upper surface of the light transmission film and inner surfaces of the plurality of first openings.

[0020] In an embodiment, the first blocking layer is conformally disposed on the light transmission film.

[0021] In an embodiment, each of the regions of the light blocking film includes a protruding portion protruding from the upper surface of the first blocking layer or the upper surface of the light transmission film.

[0022] In an embodiment, the display device can further include an outer coating layer disposed on the region of the first blocking layer and the light blocking film, and covering the upper surface and the side surface of the protruding portion.

[0023] In an embodiment, the display device can further include a second blocking layer disposed on the region of the light blocking film, wherein the second blocking layer includes a plurality of regions disposed on the region of the light blocking film, respectively.

[0024] In an embodiment, the second blocking layer includes an inorganic material, and the light transmission film includes an organic material.

[0025] In an embodiment, the light control layer further includes a light transmission lower film disposed below the light transmission film and including a plurality of second openings, and the plurality of second openings are integrally formed with the plurality of first openings, respectively.

[0026] In an embodiment, the light transmission lower film includes an organic material, and the light transmission film includes an organic material.

[0027] In an embodiment, the display device can further include a dam disposed on the substrate on a side of the plurality of light emitting elements, and including the same material as the light transmission lower film.

[0028] In an embodiment, the light transmission film is disposed closer to the plurality of light emitting elements than the dam.

[0029] According to the display device of an embodiment of the disclosure, the visibility of the light control layer can be improved.

[0030] According to the display device of an embodiment of the disclosure, the efficiency of a process of forming the light control layer can be improved.

[0031] Effects of the disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and various other effects are included in the present specification. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0032] The above and other aspects and features of the disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0033] FIG. 1 FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a display device according to an embodiment.

[0034] FIG. 2 FIG. 2 is a plan view illustrating the display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 1

[0035] FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display device taken along line X1-X1' of FIG. 2. FIG. 3 FIG. 2

[0036] FIG. 4 ​​is a schematic view showing a display device according to an embodiment used in a vehicle.

[0037] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a display panel according to an embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 6 is a plan view showing a portion of a display region according to an embodiment.

[0039] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a display region taken along the line X2-X2' of FIG. 6 .

[0040] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a display region taken along the line X2-X2' of FIG. 6 .

[0041] FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of a display region and a portion of a non-display region of a display panel according to an embodiment.

[0042] FIG. 9B is also a cross-sectional view showing a portion of a display region and a portion of a non-display region of a display panel according to an embodiment.

[0043] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a method of manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment.

[0044] FIG. 11 , FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 are cross-sectional views showing formation of a light-transmissive lower film and a light-transmissive film during the method of FIG. 10 according to an embodiment.

[0045] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing formation of a first blocking layer during the method of FIG. 10 according to an embodiment.

[0046] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing formation of a light-blocking material layer during the method of FIG. 10 according to an embodiment.

[0047] FIG. 16 and FIG. 17 are cross-sectional views showing formation of a second blocking layer during the method of FIG. 10 according to an embodiment.

[0048] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view showing patterning of a light-blocking material layer during the method of FIG. 10 according to an embodiment.

[0049] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method of forming an overcoat layer according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method of forming an overcoat layer according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Other embodiments, according to the present disclosure, can take different forms and embodiments according to the present disclosure should not be construed as limited to the example embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0051] A layer referred to herein as "on" another layer or substrate can be directly on another layer or substrate, or one or more intervening layers can also be present. Like reference numerals in the various drawings and consistent throughout the specification indicate like components.

[0052] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0053] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method of forming an overcoat layer according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method of forming an overcoat layer according to an embodiment. FIG. 1 is a plan view of a display device according to an embodiment.

[0054] Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 , the display device 10 can be a device capable of displaying a moving image or a still image, and can be used for various applications or products such as vehicles, televisions, laptop computers, monitors, billboards, and Internet of Things (IOT) devices, as well as portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, smart phones, tablet Personal Computers (PCs), smart watches, watch phones, mobile communication terminals, electronic notebooks, electronic books, Portable Multimedia Players (PMPs), navigation devices, and Ultra Mobile PCs (UMPCs).

[0055] In some embodiments, the display device 10 is used as a display screen in a vehicle, and the display device 10 can be referred to as a display for a vehicle. The display for a vehicle can provide a user with various service information such as convenience functions as well as media information, driving information, and status information of the vehicle. When the display device 10 includes an input device such as a touch panel, a user can operate a driving mode and various functions such as convenience functions of the vehicle through the display device 10.

[0056] The display device 10 can be, for example, an organic light emitting display, a liquid crystal display, a plasma display panel, a field emission display, an electrophoretic display, an electro wetting display, a quantum dot light emitting display, or a micro light emitting diode (LED) display. Hereinafter, an example in which the display device 10 is an organic light emitting display is mainly described, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0057] The display device 10 according to an embodiment can include a display panel 100, a display driving circuit 250, a circuit board 300, and a touch driving circuit 400.

[0058] The display panel 100 can include a plurality of pixels PX arranged in a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2. In a plan view, each of the pixels PX can have a rectangular shape, a square shape, or a diamond shape. For example, as shown in FIG. 1A, each of the pixels PX can have a square shape in a plan view. However, each of the pixels PX is not limited thereto, and can have various shapes such as other polygonal shapes, a circular shape, and an elliptical shape in a plan view. FIG. 1

[0059] In the drawings, the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 are horizontal directions, and are at a non-zero angle to each other. For example, the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 can be orthogonal to each other. Also, a third direction DR3 can be, for example, a direction orthogonal to a plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. In the present specification, the direction of an arrow associated with the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3 in the drawings can be referred to as a positive direction, and a direction opposite to the arrow can be referred to as a negative direction, and each of the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3 can include both of the respective positive direction and negative direction unless otherwise specified. The phrase "in a plan view" used herein refers to a view observed along the third direction DR3.

[0060] The display panel 100 can include a main area MA and a protruding area PA protruding from one side of the main area MA.

[0061] ​In the plan view, the main region MA can have a substantially rectangular shape, having a short side extending in a first direction DR1 and a long side extending in a second direction DR2. The corner where the short side in the first direction DR1 and the long side in the second direction DR2 intersect can be a right angle or can be rounded with a predetermined curvature. The shape of the display device 10 in the plan view is not limited to a rectangular shape, and can be, for example, other polygonal shapes, circular shapes, or elliptical shapes. The main region MA can be flat, but is not limited to this, and the main region MA can include curved surface portions formed at its left and right ends. In this case, the curved surface portions can have a constant curvature or a variable curvature.

[0062] The main region MA can include the display region DA and the non-display region NDA, where pixel PX displays the image at the display region DA, and the non-display region NDA is the outer region of the display region DA.

[0063] Pixels PX and the scan lines, data lines, and power lines connected to pixels PX can be disposed in the display area DA. When the main area MA includes a curved surface portion, the display area DA can extend onto the curved surface portion. In this case, the image can be visible even on the curved surface portion of the display panel 100.

[0064] The non-display area NDA can be defined as the area from the outer edge of the display area DA to the edge of the display panel 100. The non-display area NDA may include a scan driver for applying scan signals to scan lines, and connection lines connecting data lines and display driving circuitry 250 to each other.

[0065] The protruding region PA can protrude from one side of the main region MA. For example, the protruding region PA can be like this: FIG. 2 The projection shown protrudes from the lower side of the main region MA. The length of the protruding region PA in the first direction DR1 can be less than the length of the main region MA in the first direction DR1.

[0066] The prominent area PA can include a bend area BA and a pad area PDA. In this case, the pad area PDA can be located on one side of the bend area BA, and the main area MA can be located on the other side of the bend area BA. For example, the pad area PDA can be located on the lower side of the bend area BA, and the main area MA can be located on the upper side of the bend area BA.

[0067] The display panel 100 can be flexible, allowing it to be bent, folded, or rolled. The display panel 100 can be bent in the thickness direction (i.e., the third direction DR3) within the bending region BA. In this case, before the display panel 100 is bent, one surface of the pad area PDA of the display panel 100 can be as follows: FIG. 1 As shown in the diagram, the pad area PDA faces upwards, but after the bending area BA of the display panel 100 is bent, the pad area PDA can face downwards. Therefore, the pad area PDA can be positioned below the main area MA, and thus can overlap with the main area MA.

[0068] The pads electrically connected to the display driver circuit 250 and the circuit board 300 can be set in the pad area of ​​the display panel 100 PDA.

[0069] The display driver circuit 250 outputs signals and voltages for driving the display panel 100. For example, the display driver circuit 250 can provide data voltage to the data lines. Furthermore, the display driver circuit 250 can provide source voltage to the power lines and scan control signals to the scan driver. The display driver circuit 250 can be formed as an integrated circuit (IC) and mounted on the display panel 100 in the pad area of ​​the PDA using a chip-on-glass (COG), chip-on-plastic (COP), or ultrasonic bonding method, but the display driver circuit 250 is not limited to these methods. For example, the display driver circuit 250 can be mounted on a circuit board 300.

[0070] The pads may include display pads electrically connected to the display driver circuit 250 and touch pads electrically connected to the touch line.

[0071] An anisotropic conductive film can be used to attach the circuit board 300 to the pads. Specifically, the leads of the circuit board 300 can be electrically connected to the pads. 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.

[0072] The touch driver circuit 400 can be connected to the touch sensor layer TSU of the display panel 100 (see [link]). FIG. 3 The touch electrodes of the touch sensor layer (TSU). The touch driving circuit 400 can transmit signals to the touch sensor layer (TSU) (see...). FIG. 3 The touch driving circuit 400 applies a driving signal to the touch electrodes and measures the capacitance value of the touch electrodes. The driving signal can be a signal with multiple driving pulses. The touch driving circuit 400 can not only determine whether a touch has been input based on the capacitance value, but also calculate the touch coordinates of the input touch.

[0073] The touch driving circuit 400 can be disposed on the circuit board 300. The touch driving circuit 400 can be formed as an integrated circuit (IC) and mounted on the circuit board 300.

[0074] In the display device 10 according to the present embodiment, the display panel 100 can further include a light control layer LCL.

[0075] The light control layer LCL can be disposed directly in the main area MA of the display panel 100. For example, the light control layer LCL can be embedded in the display panel 100 and directly embedded in the main area MA of the display panel 100. The light control layer LCL can be embedded in the display panel 100 to reduce the thickness and manufacturing cost of the display device 10, as compared to the embodiment in which a separate light control film is attached to the display panel 100. The light control layer LCL can adjust the viewing angle of light emitted from the light emitting layer 172 (see FIG. 5 ) of the display panel 100. In some embodiments, the light control layer LCL can be disposed in the display area DA of the main area MA. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the size of the light control layer LCL can also be greater than the size of the display area DA in a plan view. In this case, the light control layer LCL can overlap both the display area DA and the non-display area NDA.

[0076] In some embodiments, the light control layer LCL can include a transmissive region OA and a non-transmissive region LSA.

[0077] The transmissive region OA can be a region in which the light blocking film LS (see FIG. 6 ) is not present. The transmissive region OA can be a region through which light is transmitted.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 , the outer edge of the transmissive region OA can have a substantially rectangular shape in a plan view, but is not limited thereto. In a plan view, the transmissive region OA can have a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or other polygonal shape. In some embodiments, the shape of the outer edge of the transmissive region OA can substantially correspond to the shape of the outer edge of the display panel 100.

[0079] The non-transmissive region LSA can be a region in which the light control layer LCL is included. The non-transmissive region LSA can be a region in which a plurality of regions of the light blocking film LS (see FIG. 6 ) are disposed.

[0080] In some embodiments, the non-transmissive region LSA can include a stripe extending in the first direction DR1 or the second direction DR2. As an example, as shown in FIG. 1As shown, the stripes forming the non-transparent region LSA can extend in the first direction DR1 and can be arranged along the second direction DR2. As another example, the stripes forming the non-transparent region LSA can extend in the second direction DR2 and can be arranged along the first direction DR1. As yet another example, some of the non-transparent region LSAs can be stripes extending in the first direction DR1 and arranged along the second direction DR2, while others of the non-transparent region LSAs can be stripes extending in the second direction DR2 and arranged along the first direction DR1.

[0081] In the implementation method, such as FIG. 1 As shown, when the non-transmissive region LSA is arranged along the second direction DR2, the viewing angle can be controlled along the second direction DR2. In another embodiment, when the non-transmissive region LSA is arranged along the first direction DR1, the viewing angle can be controlled along the first direction DR1. In the display device 10 according to this disclosure, the arrangement and shape of the transmissive region OA and the non-transmissive region LSA can be modified in various ways according to the desired viewing angle control direction.

[0082] FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 An example is shown where a transmissive region OA surrounds a non-transmissive region LSA, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the transmissive region OA may comprise a plurality of separate transmissive regions OA, which may extend between adjacent non-transmissive regions LSA in the same direction as the non-transmissive regions LSA, and the plurality of transmissive regions OA and non-transmissive regions LSA may be alternately arranged. For example, as FIG. 1 As shown, when the non-transmissive region LSA extends in the first direction DR1, multiple transmissive regions OA can extend in the first direction DR1 and can be alternately set with the non-transmissive region LSA in the second direction DR2.

[0083] The light control layer LCL may include a light-emitting layer 172 that blocks light from emitting from the display panel 100 (see [link]). FIG. 5 Light-blocking film LS (see) emitted light FIG. 6 ), and includes a light-transmitting film LT through which light is transmitted (see FIG. 6 The detailed structure of the optical control layer (LCL) is described below.

[0084] FIG. 3 It is along FIG. 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of the display device taken by line X1-X1'.

[0085] refer to FIG. 3The display device 10 can include a display panel 100 in which a light control layer LCL is embedded. The display panel 100 can include a base member BS, a thin film transistor layer TFTL, a light emitting element layer EML, a thin film encapsulation layer TFEL, a touch sensor layer TSU, and the light control layer LCL.

[0086] The base member BS can include a substrate. The substrate can be made of an insulating material such as glass, quartz, or a polymer resin. Examples of the polymer resin can include polyether sulfone (PES), polyacrylate (PA), polyarylate (PAR), polyetherimide (PEI), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyallylate, polyimide (PI), polycarbonate (PC), cellulose triacetate (CAT), cellulose acetate propionate (CAP), or a combination thereof. Alternatively, the substrate can include a metallic material.

[0087] The substrate in the base member BS can be a rigid substrate, or a flexible substrate that can be bent, folded, or rolled. When the substrate is a flexible substrate, the substrate can be made of polyimide (PI), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0088] The thin film transistor layer TFTL can be disposed on the base member BS. In the thin film transistor layer TFTL, not only a thin film transistor of each of the pixels, but also a scan line, a data line, a power line, a scan control line, a routing line connecting a pad and a data line to each other, and the like can be formed. Each of the thin film transistors can include a gate electrode, a semiconductor layer, a source electrode, and a drain electrode.

[0089] The thin film transistor layer TFTL can be disposed in the display area DA and the non-display area NDA. Specifically, the thin film transistor of each of the pixels of the thin film transistor layer TFTL, the scan line, the data line, and the power line can be disposed in or extended into the display area DA. The scan control line and the connection line of the thin film transistor layer TFTL can be disposed in the non-display area NDA.

[0090] The light emitting element layer EML can be disposed on the thin film transistor layer TFTL. The light emitting element layer EML can include light emitting elements of the pixels. In the light emitting element layer EML, each light emitting element can include a first electrode, a light emitting layer, and a second electrode, and the light emitting element layer EML can further include a pixel definition film defining an area of the light emitting element. The light emitting layer in each light emitting element can be an organic light emitting layer including an organic material. In this case, the light emitting layer can include a hole transport layer, an organic light emitting layer, and an electron transport layer. When a predetermined voltage is applied to the first electrode of the light emitting element by the thin film transistor of the thin film transistor layer TFTL and a cathode voltage is applied to the second electrode of the light emitting element, holes and electrons can move to the organic light emitting layer through the hole transport layer and the electron transport layer, respectively, and recombine with each other in the organic light emitting layer to emit light. The light emitting area of the pixel defined in the light emitting element layer EML can be disposed in the display area DA.

[0091] The thin film encapsulation layer TFEL can be disposed on the light emitting element layer EML. The thin film encapsulation layer TFEL can function to prevent oxygen or moisture from penetrating into the light emitting element layer EML. To this end, the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL can include at least one inorganic film. The inorganic film can be a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL can function to protect the light emitting element layer EML from foreign substances such as dust. To this end, the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL can include at least one organic film. The organic film can be made of an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenol resin, a polyamide resin, or a polyimide resin, but is not limited thereto.

[0092] The thin film encapsulation layer TFEL can be disposed in both the display area DA and the non-display area NDA. Specifically, the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL can cover the light emitting element layer EML in the display area DA and the non-display area NDA, and cover the edge of the thin film transistor layer TFTL in the non-display area NDA.

[0093] The touch sensor layer TSU can be disposed on the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL. Since the touch sensor layer TSU can be directly on the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL, the thickness of the display device 10 can be reduced compared to a case in which a separate touch panel including the touch sensor layer TSU is attached on the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL using, for example, an adhesive layer.

[0094] The touch sensor layer TSU can include a touch electrode for capacitively sensing a touch of a user and a touch line connecting the touch electrode to a pad. For example, the touch sensor layer TSU can function to capacitively sense a touch of a user in a self-capacitance manner or a mutual-capacitance manner.

[0095] Touch electrodes of the touch sensor layer TSU can be provided in a touch sensor area overlapping the display area DA. Touch lines of the touch sensor layer TSU can be provided in a touch peripheral area overlapping the non-display area NDA.

[0096] A light control layer LCL can be provided on the touch sensor layer TSU. The light control layer LCL can be provided to overlap the display area DA. The light control layer LCL can function to absorb or block light among light emitted from the light emitting element layer EML that travels at an angle larger than a predetermined angle with respect to the third direction DR3. That is, the light control layer LCL can control or limit the direction in which light can travel from the display device 10, and thus control the viewing angle of an image displayed by the display device 10.

[0097] Although not shown in FIG. 3 , the display device 10 can further include a cover window. The cover window can be additionally provided on the light control layer LCL, and in this case, the light control layer LCL and the cover window can be attached to each other by a transparent adhesive member such as an optical clear adhesive (OCA) film.

[0098] FIG. 4 is a schematic view showing an embodiment in which the display device is used in a vehicle.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 4 , the display device 10 according to an embodiment can be, for example, a display device in a vehicle. The vehicle can include a vehicle body that defines an indoor space of the vehicle. The vehicle body can include a windshield W that protects a driver PS1 and a passenger PS2 from external influences while providing a view to the driver PS1.

[0100] As shown in FIG. 4 , the display device 10 can be provided in the indoor space. In some embodiments, the display device 10 can be provided on an instrument panel provided in the indoor space. FIG. 4 An example in which the display device 10 can extend from an area of the instrument panel located in front of the driver seat to an area of the instrument panel located in front of the passenger seat is shown. For example, the display device 10 can be an integrated display that covers an area of the instrument panel from in front of the driver seat to in front of the passenger seat.

[0101] In the example shown in FIG. 4 , the display device 10 can include a first display area DA1 located in front of the driver seat and a second display area DA2 located in front of the passenger seat. The first display area DA1, which can be provided on the instrument panel in front of the driver seat, can provide the driver PS1 with speed information, etc., and the second display area DA2, which can be provided on the instrument panel in front of the passenger seat, can provide the passenger PS2 with entertainment information, etc. Although not shown in FIG. 4A third display region between the first display region DA1 and the second display region DA2 is not shown, but the display device 10 can also include the third display region.

[0102] As another example, separate display devices 10 can be provided on the dashboard, one in front of the driver seat and one in front of the passenger seat. For example, the first display device can be provided on the dashboard in front of the driver seat, and the second display device can be provided on the dashboard in front of the passenger seat.

[0103] The driver PS1 can recognize (see or view) the display screen of the display device 10 by light LGT0_1 emitted from the portion of the display device 10 in front of the driver seat toward the driver PS1. However, some of the light LGT1 emitted from the portion of the display device 10 in front of the driver seat can be reflected from the surrounding windshield W and directed toward the driver PS1. In this case, the driver PS1 can see the image reflected in the windshield W, and the image reflected from the windshield W can hinder the driving of the driver PS1. On the other hand, in the case of the display device 10 according to the embodiment, the display device 10 can have a viewing angle, in particular a vertical viewing angle, which is controlled or limited to prevent at least some of the light LGT1 from being emitted in a direction that will be reflected from the windshield W and directed toward the driver PS1.

[0104] The passenger PS2 can recognize (see or view) the display screen of the display device 10 by light LGT0_2 emitted from the portion of the display device 10 in front of the passenger seat toward the passenger PS2. However, some of the light LGT2 emitted from the portion of the display device 10 in front of the passenger seat can be directed toward the driver PS1. According to the embodiment, the display device 10 can prevent the driver PS1 from seeing the image displayed in the second display region DA2 for safety reasons when the vehicle is traveling. According to aspects of the present disclosure, for light emitted from the second display region DA2 of the display device 10, the display device 10 can have a viewing angle, in particular a horizontal viewing angle, which prevents at least some of the light LGT2 emitted from the second display region DA2 from being directed toward the driver PS1.

[0105] FIG. 5 Examples in which the portion of the display device 10 in front of the driver seat controls or limits the vertical viewing angle and the portion of the display device 10 in front of the passenger seat controls or limits the horizontal viewing angle are shown, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. As an example, the portion of the display device 10 in front of the driver seat can adjust the horizontal viewing angle, and the portion of the display device 10 in front of the passenger seat can adjust the vertical viewing angle. As another example, the portion of the display device 10 in front of the driver seat and the portion in front of the passenger seat can control or limit both the vertical viewing angle and the horizontal viewing angle.

[0106] The light control layer LCL can be configured to provide control or limitation of a desired viewing angle. The light control layer LCL may, for example, limit the viewing angle to a predetermined angular range. As a more specific example, the viewing angle can be an angle within 35° from a normal extending in a direction perpendicular to a display surface of the display device 10 facing the driver PS1 or the passenger PS2. In some embodiments, an angle within 35° from the normal can be defined as an effective viewing angle, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0107] FIG. 5 FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a display panel according to an embodiment.

[0108] Referring to FIG. 5 The display panel 100 can include a display layer DU and a touch sensor layer TSU. The display layer DU can include a base member BS, a thin film transistor layer TFTL, a light emitting element layer EML, and a thin film encapsulation layer TFEL.

[0109] The base member BS can include a first substrate SUB1, a first buffer film BF1 disposed on the first substrate SUB1, and a second substrate SUB2 disposed on the first buffer film BF1.

[0110] Each of the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 can be made of an insulating material such as glass, quartz, or a polymer resin. Examples of the polymer resin can include polyether sulfone (PES), polyacrylate (PA), polyarylate (PAR), polyetherimide (PEI), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyallylate, polyimide (PI), polycarbonate (PC), cellulose triacetate (CAT), cellulose acetate propionate (CAP), or a combination thereof. Alternatively, each of the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 can include a metallic material.

[0111] Each of the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 can be a rigid substrate, or a flexible substrate that can be bent, folded, or rolled. When each of the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 is a flexible substrate, each of the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 can be made of polyimide (PI), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0112] The first buffer film BF1 can be a film that protects the first thin film transistor ST1 and the light-emitting layer 172 from moisture, which can otherwise penetrate the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2, which can be easily penetrated by moisture. The first buffer film BF1 can include a plurality of inorganic films stacked. For example, the first buffer film BF1 can be formed as a plurality of films in which one or more inorganic films of a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, and an aluminum oxide layer are alternately stacked.

[0113] The thin film transistor layer TFTL can include the bottom metal layer BML, the second buffer film BF2, the first thin film transistor ST1, the first gate insulating film GI1, the first interlayer insulating film 141, the first capacitor electrode CAE1, the second interlayer insulating film 142, the first anode connection electrode ANDE1, the first organic film 160, the second anode connection electrode ANDE2, and the second organic film 180.

[0114] The bottom metal layer BML can be disposed on the second substrate SUB2. The bottom metal layer BML can overlap the first active layer ACT1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 in the third direction DR3 and can prevent generation of a leakage current when light is incident on the first active layer ACT1 of the first thin film transistor ST1. The bottom metal layer BML can be formed as a single layer or a plurality of layers made of any one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu), or an alloy thereof, and the bottom metal layer BML can be patterned to form a plurality of separate areas under a corresponding thin film transistor, such as the first thin film transistor ST1. The bottom metal layer BML can be omitted.

[0115] The second buffer film BF2 can be disposed on the bottom metal layer BML. The second buffer film BF2 can protect the first thin film transistor ST1 and the light-emitting layer 172 from moisture that penetrates the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2, which can be penetrated by moisture. The second buffer film BF2 can include a plurality of inorganic films stacked. For example, the second buffer film BF2 can be formed as a plurality of films in which one or more inorganic films of a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, and an aluminum oxide layer are alternately stacked.

[0116] The first active layer ACT1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 can be provided over the second buffer film BF2. The first active layer ACT1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 can include polycrystal silicon, single crystal silicon, low-temperature polycrystal silicon, amorphous silicon, or an oxide semiconductor. The material used to form the first active layer ACT1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 can be doped with impurities or ions, and thus the doped portions can be electrically conductive. Thus, the first source electrode TS1 and the first drain electrode TD1 of the first thin film transistor ST1, which do not overlap with the first gate insulating film GI1, can be formed.

[0117] The first gate insulating film GI1 can be provided over the first active layer ACT1 of the first thin film transistor ST1. FIG. 5 An example in which the first gate insulating film GI1 is between the first gate electrode TG1 and the first active layer ACT1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 is shown, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The first gate insulating film GI1 can also be between the first interlayer insulating film 141 and the first active layer ACT1 and between the first interlayer insulating film 141 and the second buffer film BF2. The first gate insulating film GI1 can be formed as an inorganic film such as a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer.

[0118] The first gate electrode TG1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 can be provided over the first gate insulating film GI1. The first gate electrode TG1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 can overlap with the first active layer ACT1 in the third direction DR3. The first gate electrode TG1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 can be formed as a single layer or a plurality of layers made of any one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu), or an alloy thereof.

[0119] The first interlayer insulating film 141 can be provided over the first gate electrode TG1 of the first thin film transistor ST1. The first interlayer insulating film 141 can be formed as an inorganic film such as a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer. The first interlayer insulating film 141 can include a plurality of inorganic films.

[0120] A first capacitor electrode CAE1 can be provided on the first interlayer insulating film 141. A respective one of the first capacitor electrodes CAE1 can overlap the first gate electrode TG1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 in the third direction DR3. The first interlayer insulating film 141 can have a predetermined dielectric constant, and a capacitor can be formed by the first capacitor electrode CAE1, the first gate electrode TG1, and the first interlayer insulating film 141 provided between the first capacitor electrode CAE1 and the first gate electrode TG1. The first capacitor electrode CAE1 can be formed as a single layer or a plurality of layers made of any one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu), or an alloy thereof.

[0121] A second interlayer insulating film 142 can be provided on the first capacitor electrode CAE1. The second interlayer insulating film 142 can be formed as an inorganic film such as a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer. The second interlayer insulating film 142 can include a plurality of inorganic films.

[0122] A first anode connection electrode ANDE1 can be provided on the second interlayer insulating film 142. A respective one of the first anode connection electrodes ANDE1 can be connected to the first drain electrode TD1 of the first thin film transistor ST1 through a first anode contact hole ANCT1 that penetrates the first interlayer insulating film 141 and the second interlayer insulating film 142. The first anode connection electrode ANDE1 can be formed as a single layer or a plurality of layers made of any one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu), or an alloy thereof.

[0123] A first organic film 160 for planarization can be provided on the first anode connection electrode ANDE1. The first organic film 160 can be formed as an organic film made of an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenol resin, a polyamide resin, a polyimide resin, or the like.

[0124] A second anode connection electrode ANDE2 can be provided on the first organic film 160. The second anode connection electrodes ANDE2 can be respectively connected to the first anode connection electrodes ANDE1 through second anode contact holes ANCT2 that penetrate the first organic film 160. The second anode connection electrode ANDE2 can be formed as a single layer or a plurality of layers made of any one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu), or an alloy thereof.

[0125] The second organic film 180 can be provided on the second anode connection electrode ANDE2. The second organic film 180 can be formed of an organic film made of an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenol resin, a polyamide resin, a polyimide resin, or the like.

[0126] FIG. 5 It is shown that the first thin film transistor ST1 is an example of a top gate type in which the first gate electrode TG1 is located above the first active layer ACT1, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The first thin film transistor ST1 can be a bottom gate type in which the first gate electrode TG1 is located below the first active layer ACT1, or a dual gate type in which the first gate electrode TG1 is located above and below the first active layer ACT1.

[0127] The light emitting element layer EML can be provided on the second organic film 180. The light emitting element layer EML can include the light emitting elements 170 and the bank 190. Each of the light emitting elements 170 can include the first light emitting electrode 171, the light emitting layer 172, and the second light emitting electrode 173.

[0128] The first light emitting electrode 171 can be formed on the second organic film 180. Each of the first light emitting electrodes 171 can be connected to a corresponding one of the second anode connection electrodes ANDE2 through a third anode contact hole ANCT3 that penetrates the second organic film 180.

[0129] In a top emission structure in which light is emitted from the light emitting layer 172 via the second light emitting electrode 173, the first light emitting electrode 171 can be made of a metal material having high reflectivity, such as a stacked structure of aluminum and titanium (Ti / Al / Ti), a stacked structure of aluminum and indium tin oxide (ITO) (ITO / Al / ITO), an alloy of silver palladium copper (APC), and a stacked structure of the APC alloy and ITO (ITO / APC / ITO). The APC alloy is an alloy of silver (Ag), palladium (Pd), and copper (Cu).

[0130] The bank 190 can separate the first light emitting electrodes 171 on the second organic film 180 to define the emission area EA. The bank 190 can include an opening that exposes at least part of an upper surface of the first light emitting electrode 171. The bank 190 can cover edges of the first light emitting electrode 171. The bank 190 can be an organic film made of an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenol resin, a polyamide resin, a polyimide resin, or the like.

[0131] The emission area EA refers to an area in which the first light emitting electrode 171, the light emitting layer 172, and the second light emitting electrode 173 are stacked in this order and holes from the first light emitting electrode 171 and electrons from the second light emitting electrode 173 recombine with each other in the light emitting layer 172 to emit light. The emission area EA can be defined by the opening of the bank 190.

[0132] The light-emitting layer 172 can be formed on the first light-emitting electrode 171 and the bank 190. The light-emitting layer 172 can be disposed in the opening of the bank 190, but is not limited thereto. The light-emitting layer 172 can include an organic material selected and configured to emit light of a predetermined color. For example, the light-emitting layer 172 can include a hole transport layer, an organic material layer, and an electron transport layer.

[0133] The second light-emitting electrode 173 can be disposed on the light-emitting layer 172. The second light-emitting electrode 173 can be formed to cover the light-emitting layer 172. The second light-emitting electrode 173 can be a common layer extending throughout all the emission areas EA. Although not shown in FIG. 1A, in some embodiments, a capping layer can be formed on the second light-emitting electrode 173. FIG. 1

[0134] In a top emission structure, the second light-emitting electrode 173 can be made of a transparent conductive oxide (TCO) such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO) capable of transmitting light therethrough or a semi-transmissive layer of a conductive material such as magnesium (Mg), silver (Ag), or an alloy of magnesium (Mg) and silver (Ag). When the second light-emitting electrode 173 is a semi-transmissive layer of a conductive material, a microcavity can increase light emission efficiency.

[0135] A thin film encapsulation layer TFEL can be disposed on the second light-emitting electrode 173. The thin film encapsulation layer TFEL can include at least one inorganic film to prevent oxygen or moisture from permeating into the light-emitting element layer EML. In addition, the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL can include at least one organic film to protect the light-emitting element layer EML from foreign substances such as dust. For example, the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL can include a first encapsulation film TFE1, a second encapsulation film TFE2, and a third encapsulation film TFE3.

[0136] The first encapsulation film TFE1 (e.g., a first inorganic encapsulation film) can be disposed on the second light-emitting electrode 173. The first encapsulation film TFE1 can be a single-layer inorganic film or a multi-layer inorganic film. The first encapsulation film TFE1 can include one or more inorganic films such as a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, and an aluminum oxide layer, which can form a single film or can be stacked into a multi-film structure.

[0137] The second encapsulation film TFE2 (e.g., a first organic encapsulation film) can be disposed on the first encapsulation film TFE1. The second encapsulation film TFE2 can be a single-layer organic film or a multi-layer organic film. The second encapsulation film TFE2 can include a polymer-based material. The polymer-based material can include polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, polycarbonate, polyimide, polyethylene sulfonate, polyformaldehyde, polyarylate, hexamethyldisiloxane, and an acrylic resin (e.g., polymethyl methacrylate, polyacrylic acid, etc.), or any combination thereof.​

[0138] A third encapsulation film TFE3 (e.g., a second inorganic encapsulation film) can be disposed on the second encapsulation film TFE2. The third encapsulation film TFE3 can be a single-layer inorganic film or a multi-layer inorganic film. The third encapsulation film TFE3 can include the same material as the first encapsulation film TFE1. For example, the third encapsulation film TFE3 can include a single film or a plurality of films including one or more inorganic films such as a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, and an aluminum oxide layer.

[0139] A touch sensor layer TSU can be disposed on the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL. The touch sensor layer TSU can include a plurality of touch electrodes for capacitively sensing a touch of a user, and a touch line connecting the plurality of touch electrodes to a touch driver. For example, the touch sensor layer TSU can sense a touch of a user in a mutual capacitance manner or a self-capacitance manner.

[0140] In another embodiment, the touch sensor layer TSU can be disposed on a separate substrate disposed on the display layer DU. In this case, the substrate supporting the touch sensor layer TSU can be an encapsulation member encapsulating the display layer DU.

[0141] The plurality of touch electrodes of the touch sensor layer TSU can be disposed in a touch sensor area overlapping the display area DA as shown in FIG. 1A. FIG. 1 The touch line of the touch sensor layer TSU can extend into a touch peripheral area overlapping the non-display area NDA as shown in FIG. 1A. FIG. 6

[0142] The touch sensor layer TSU can include a first touch insulating film SIL1, a first touch electrode REL, a second touch insulating film SIL2, a second touch electrode TEL, and a third touch insulating film SIL3.

[0143] The first touch insulating film SIL1 can be disposed on the thin film encapsulation layer TFEL. The first touch insulating film SIL1 can have an insulating function and an optical function. The first touch insulating film SIL1 can include at least one inorganic film. For example, the first touch insulating film SIL1 can be an inorganic film including at least one of a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, and an aluminum oxide layer. Alternatively, the first touch insulating film SIL1 can be omitted.

[0144] ​The first touch electrode REL can be disposed on the first touch insulating film SIL1. The first touch electrode REL can not overlap the light emitting element 170. The first touch electrode REL can be formed as a single layer made of molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), or ITO, or 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 an APC alloy and ITO (ITO / APC / ITO).

[0145] The second touch insulating film SIL2 can cover the first touch electrode REL and the first touch insulating film SIL1. The second touch insulating film SIL2 can have an insulating function and an optical function. For example, the second touch insulating film SIL2 can be made of a material used in the first touch insulating film SIL1.

[0146] The second touch electrode TEL can be disposed on the second touch insulating film SIL2. The second touch electrode TEL can not overlap the light emitting element 170. The second touch electrode TEL can be formed as a single layer made of molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), or ITO, or 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 an APC alloy and ITO (ITO / APC / ITO).

[0147] The third touch insulating film SIL3 can cover the second touch electrode TEL and the second touch insulating film SIL2. The third touch insulating film SIL3 can have an insulating function and an optical function. The third touch insulating film SIL3 can be made of a material used in the second touch insulating film SIL2.

[0148] In some embodiments, the first touch insulating film SIL1, the second touch insulating film SIL2, and the third touch insulating film SIL3 can be organic films. For example, the first touch insulating film SIL1, the second touch insulating film SIL2, and the third touch insulating film SIL3 can be organic films made of an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenol resin, a polyamide resin, a polyimide resin, or the like.

[0149] The touch sensor layer TSU can further include a planarization film PAS for planarization. The planarization film PAS can be formed as an organic film made of an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenol resin, a polyamide resin, a polyimide resin, or the like.

[0150] FIG. 7 FIG. 1B is a plan view illustrating a portion of a display area according to an embodiment. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line X2-X2' of FIG. 1 FIG. 1B is a plan view illustrating a portion of a display area according to an embodiment.

[0151] in conjunction with FIG. 2 and FIG. 6 with reference to FIG. 7 and FIG. 6 The display area DA of the display device 10 can include a plurality of emission areas EA. Each emission area EA can be an area in which light from one or more underlying light emitting elements 170 is emitted. The bank 190 can define the emission areas EA. For example, the plurality of emission areas EA can be areas overlapping the light emitting layer 172 disposed in the openings of the bank 190. Each emission area EA can be an area in which the first light emitting electrode 171, the light emitting layer 172, and the second light emitting electrode 173 are sequentially stacked while overlapping each other.

[0152] In some embodiments, the plurality of emission areas EA can include a first emission area EA1, a second emission area EA2, and a third emission area EA3. FIG. 7 and FIG. 6 An example in which three types of emission areas EA are included in the display area DA is illustrated, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the types of emission areas included in the display area DA can be more than three or less than three.

[0153] The first emission area EA1 can emit light of a first color, the second emission area EA2 can emit light of a second color, and the third emission area EA3 can emit light of a third color. The light of the first color can be light in a red wavelength band, the light of the second color can be light in a green wavelength band, and the light of the third color can be light in a blue wavelength band. The red wavelength band can be a wavelength band from about 600 nm to about 750 nm, the green wavelength band can be a wavelength band from about 480 nm to about 560 nm, and the blue wavelength band can be a wavelength band from about 370 nm to about 460 nm, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0154] Each of the first emission area EA1, the second emission area EA2, and the third emission area EA3 can have a shape of a rectangle, a shape of a square, or a shape of a diamond in a plan view. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 1A, each of the first emission area EA1, the second emission area EA2, and the third emission area EA3 can have a shape of a rectangle with rounded corners in a plan view, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. FIG. 6

[0155] In an embodiment, the areas of the first emission area EA1, the second emission area EA2, and the third emission area EA3 can be identical to each other. The first emission area EA1, the second emission area EA2, and the third emission area EA3 can each have a longer side extending in the first direction DR1, have a shorter side extending in the second direction DR2, and can be arranged side by side in the second direction DR2.​

[0156] In another embodiment, the areas of the first emission area EA1, the second emission area EA2, and the third emission area EA3 can be different from each other. The first emission area EA1, the second emission area EA2, and the third emission area EA3 can have longer sides extending in the second direction DR2, and can be arranged side by side along the first direction DR1.

[0157] FIG. 1 An example in which the transmissive area OA and the non-transmissive area LSA have the longest dimension extending in the first direction DR1 is shown by way of example in the display device 10 according to the embodiment of FIG. 10

[0158] The emission areas EA of the display area DA can overlap the transmissive area OA and the non-transmissive area LSA in the third direction DR3. For example, the first emission area EA1, the second emission area EA2, and the third emission area EA3 can overlap the transmissive area OA and the non-transmissive area LSA in the third direction DR3.

[0159] The transmissive area OA can be an area in which the light blocking film LS is not provided with the light control layer LCL. The non-transmissive area LSA can be an area in which the light blocking film LS is provided with the light control layer LCL.

[0160] The light control layer LCL can be provided on the display layer DU or the touch sensor layer TSU. The light control layer LCL can control the viewing angle of light emitted from the light emitting layer 172. For example, when light emitted from the light emitting layer 172 travels at a predetermined angle or less with respect to the third direction DR3, the light can be emitted to the outside so as to be viewed at an angle of at most the predetermined angle. On the other hand, when light emitted from the light emitting layer 172 travels at an angle greater than the predetermined angle with respect to the third direction DR3, the light blocking film LS can absorb or block the light, and thus prevent the light from being emitted to the outside.

[0161] The light control layer LCL can include a light transmission film LT, a light blocking film LS, a first blocking layer STP1, a second blocking layer STP2, and an overcoat layer OC.

[0162] The light transmission film LT can transmit light emitted from the light emitting layer 172. The light transmission film LT can include a transparent organic material. For example, the light transmission film LT can include an organic film made of an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenol resin, a polyamide resin, a polyimide resin, or the like.

[0163] The light transmission film LT can be provided on the display layer DU or the touch sensor layer TSU. The light transmission film LT can be provided in the transmissive area OA. The light transmission film LT can be provided alternately with the light blocking film LS in the first direction DR1 or the second direction DR2.​

[0164] In some embodiments, the light transmission film LT can include a plurality of openings corresponding to the non-transmission regions LSA. At least a portion of the first blocking layer STP1 and the light blocking film LS can be disposed in the openings of the light transmission film LT.

[0165] In some embodiments, the regions of the light transmission film LT can be spaced apart from each other. For example, the plurality of separate regions of the light transmission film LT can be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1 or the second direction DR2.

[0166] The first blocking layer STP1 can be disposed on the light transmission film LT. The first blocking layer STP1 can overlap the transmission regions OA and the non-transmission regions LSA. The first blocking layer STP1 can be conformally disposed on the light transmission film LT. As an example, the first blocking layer STP1 can be disposed along the contour of the light transmission film LT. For example, the first blocking layer STP1 can cover the upper surface of the light transmission film LT and the inner surface of the openings of the light transmission film LT.

[0167] In some embodiments, the first blocking layer STP1 can include a transparent inorganic material. For example, the first blocking layer STP1 can include at least one of silicon oxide (SiO x ), silicon nitride (SiN x ), and silicon oxynitride (SiO x N y ).

[0168] When the overhanging portion LS_Ma (see FIG. 15 ) of the light blocking material layer LS_M (see FIG. 15 ) is removed in the method S1 of manufacturing the display device (see FIG. 15 ) described below, the first blocking layer STP1 can prevent the light transmission film LT disposed in the transmission regions OA from being etched. The first blocking layer STP1 can function as a blocking member to prevent the overhanging portion LS_Ma (see FIG. 15 ) of the light blocking material layer LS_M (see FIG. 15 ) from being etched into the light transmission film LT. By including an inorganic material in the first blocking layer STP1, the display device 10 according to the present embodiment can prevent the light transmission film LT including an organic material from being etched when the light blocking material layer LS_M (see FIG. 10 ) including an organic material is removed.

[0169] The light blocking film LS can absorb or block light emitted from the light emitting layer 172. The light blocking film LS can include a light blocking organic material. For example, the light blocking film LS is made of a photosensitive resin capable of absorbing or blocking light, and can include an organic material including an organic black pigment.

[0170] A light-blocking film LS can be disposed on the first blocking layer STP1. The regions of the light-blocking film LS and the light-transmitting film LT can be alternately or interwoven in the first direction DR1 or the second direction DR2. For example, the light-blocking film LS can be disposed within the opening of the light-transmitting film LT.

[0171] The light-blocking film LS may include a protruding portion LSa. The protruding portion LSa may be a part of the light-blocking film LS that protrudes from the upper surface of the light-transmitting film LT or the upper surface of the first blocking layer STP1 on the third-direction DR3.

[0172] The second blocking layer STP2 can be disposed on a region of the light-blocking film LS. For example, the second blocking layer STP2 may include multiple separate regions, and the multiple regions of the second blocking layer STP2 can be disposed on multiple regions of the light-blocking film LS respectively. The regions of the second blocking layer STP2 can be disposed on the regions of the light-blocking film LS in a one-to-one correspondence with the regions of the light-blocking film LS. The second blocking layer STP2 can be disposed in the non-transmissive region LSA.

[0173] In some embodiments, the second blocking layer STP2 may comprise a transparent inorganic material. For example, the second blocking layer STP2 may comprise silicon oxide (SiO2). x ), silicon nitride (SiN) x ) and silicon nitride oxide (SiO) x N y At least one of the following.

[0174] When the method S1 for manufacturing the display device described below (see below) FIG. 15 Remove the light-blocking material layer LS_M in ) (see FIG. 15 The overflow portion of LS_Ma (see) FIG. 15 When the second blocking layer STP2 is in use, it can prevent the light-blocking material layer LS_M (see) located in the non-transmissive region LSA from being placed in the LSA. FIG. 15 The light-blocking material layer LS_M is etched. The second blocking layer STP2 can be used as a blocking element or mask, thereby only etching the light-blocking material layer LS_M (see [link to image]). FIG. 15 The setting of LS_Ma in the overflow portion of the transmission region OA (see) FIG. 15 ), while preventing the light-blocking material layer LS_M set in the non-transmissive region LSA (see FIG. 15 It was etched.

[0175] According to this embodiment, the display device 10 can remove the light-blocking material layer LS_M (see [reference]) in the transmission region OA by including inorganic materials in the second blocking layer STP2, which includes organic materials. FIG. 8 When preventing light-blocking material layer LS_M (see...) FIG. 9AThe portion of the light-blocking film LSA in the non-transmission region LSA is etched. In addition, in the display device 10 according to the present embodiment, the second blocking layer STP2 including an inorganic material can be deposited directly on the light-blocking film LS, and thus, it is not necessary to form an additional organic film using a metal hard mask on the light-blocking film LS, and thus, the process can be simplified and the process efficiency can be improved.

[0176] An overcoat layer OC can be provided on the first blocking layer STP1, the light-blocking film LS, and the second blocking layer STP2. The overcoat layer OC can cover the upper surface of the first blocking layer STP1, the side surface of the protruding portion LSa of the light-blocking film LS, and the upper surface of the second blocking layer STP2.

[0177] The overcoat layer OC can include an organic film made of an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenol resin, a polyamide resin, a polyimide resin, or the like.

[0178] The display device 10 according to the present embodiment can prevent a decrease in the height of the light-transmissive film LT by including the first blocking layer STP1, and can prevent a decrease in the height of the light-blocking film LS by including the second blocking layer STP2. Thus, the control of the viewing angle of the light control layer LCL can be improved.

[0179] Hereinafter, other embodiments of the display device are described. In the following embodiments, components that are the same as those of the above-described embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and overlapping descriptions thereof can be omitted or simplified, and mainly the differences from the above-described components are described.

[0180] FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a display panel according to an embodiment. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a display region and a portion of a non-display region of a display panel according to an embodiment. FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a display region and a portion of a non-display region of a display panel according to an embodiment.

[0181] The display device 10 according to the embodiments illustrated in FIG. 9B , FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 is different from the display device 10 according to the embodiments described with reference to FIG. 9A and the like in that FIG. 9B , FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B the embodiments further include a light-transmissive lower film OPVX and a light-transmissive film dam OPD.

[0182] The light control layer LCL in these embodiments can also include a light-transmissive lower film OPVX. The light-transmissive lower film OPVX can transmit light emitted from the light-emitting layer 172. The light-transmissive lower film OPVX can include a transparent organic material. For example, the light-transmissive lower film OPVX can include an organic film made of an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenol resin, a polyamide resin, a polyimide resin, or the like.

[0183] The light-transmissive lower film OPVX can be provided on the display layer DU or the touch sensor layer TSU. The light-transmissive lower film OPVX can be provided below the light-transmissive film LT. The light-transmissive lower film OPVX can be provided in the transmissive region OA. The regions of the light-transmissive lower film OPVX and the regions of the light-blocking film LS can be alternately or interlacedly provided in the first direction DR1 or the second direction DR2.

[0184] The light-transmissive lower film OPVX can include a plurality of openings in the non-transmissive region LSA. At least a portion of the light-blocking film LS and the first blocking layer STP1 can be provided in the openings of the light-transmissive lower film OPVX. The openings of the light-transmissive lower film OPVX can be integrally formed with the openings of the light-transmissive film LT.

[0185] In some embodiments, a plurality of regions of the light-transmissive lower film OPVX can be respectively provided below a plurality of regions of the light-transmissive film LT. The regions of the light-transmissive lower film OPVX can be respectively provided below the regions of the light-transmissive film LT so as to correspond one-to-one to the regions of the light-transmissive film LT.

[0186] The display panel 100 can further include a first dam DAM1, a second dam DAM2, and a light-transmissive film dam OPD.

[0187] FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B An example in which the first dam DAM1 is provided in the display region DA, the second dam DAM2 is provided in the display region DA and the non-display region NDA, and the light-transmissive film dam OPD is provided in the non-display region NDA is illustrated, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the first dam DAM1, the second dam DAM2, and the light-transmissive film dam OPD can all be provided in the non-display region NDA or can all be provided in the display region DA.

[0188] The first dam DAM1, the second dam DAM2, and the light-transmissive film dam OPD can be provided on the base member BS. As FIG. 9A and FIG. 9BAs shown in FIG. 2, when the second buffer film BF2, the first interlayer insulating film 141, and the second interlayer insulating film 142 extend to the lower portions of the first dam DAM1, the second dam DAM2, and the light-transmissive film dam OPD, the first dam DAM1, the second dam DAM2, and the light-transmissive film dam OPD can be disposed on the second buffer film BF2, the first interlayer insulating film 141, and the second interlayer insulating film 142. In an embodiment, when the second buffer film BF2, the first interlayer insulating film 141, and the second interlayer insulating film 142 do not extend to the lower portions of the first dam DAM1, the second dam DAM2, and the light-transmissive film dam OPD, the first dam DAM1, the second dam DAM2, and the light-transmissive film dam OPD can be directly on the base structure BS.

[0189] The first dam DAM1 and the second dam DAM2 can prevent the second encapsulation film TFE2 of the thin-film encapsulation layer TFEL from overflowing into the non-display area NDA or outside of the display panel 100. FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B An example in which the display panel 100 includes two dams in addition to the light-transmissive film dam OPD is shown, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The display panel 100 can include one dam or three or more dams in addition to the light-transmissive film dam OPD.

[0190] The first dam DAM1 can include a first sub-dam SD11 and a second sub-dam SD12, and the second dam DAM2 includes a first sub-dam SD21, a second sub-dam SD22, and a third sub-dam SD23. The first sub-dam SD11 and the first sub-dam SD21 can include the same material as the first organic film 160 and can be formed in the same layer as the first organic film 160. The second sub-dam SD12 and the second sub-dam SD22 can include the same material as the second organic film 180 and can be formed in the same layer as the second organic film 180. The third sub-dam SD23 can be on the second sub-dam SD22 and can include the same material as the second sub-dam SD22. In another embodiment, the third sub-dam SD23 can include the same material as the bank 190 and can be formed in the same layer as the bank 190.

[0191] The height of the first dam DAM1 can be lower than the height of the second dam DAM2. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the height of the first dam DAM1 can be substantially the same as the height of the second dam DAM2, or can be higher than the height of the second dam DAM2.

[0192] In some embodiments, the light-transmissive lower film OPVX can extend from the display area DA toward the non-display area NDA. The light-transmissive lower film OPVX can completely cover the upper and side surfaces of the first dam DAM1 and the upper and side surfaces of the second dam DAM2.

[0193] The light transmission dam OPD can prevent the light transmission film LT from overflowing into the non-display area NDA or outside of the display panel 100. FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B An example in which the display panel 100 includes one light transmission dam OPD is illustrated, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The display panel 100 can include two or more light transmission dams OPD.

[0194] The light transmission film LT can be disposed inside the light transmission dam OPD. For example, the light transmission film LT can be disposed closer to the light emitting element 170 than the light transmission dam OPD. The light transmission dam OPD can define a boundary and can hold the light transmission film LT within the boundary such that the light transmission film LT does not extend beyond the light transmission dam OPD.

[0195] In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 10 The light transmission dam OPD can include a single layer. For example, the light transmission dam OPD can include the same material as the light transmission lower film OPVX and can be formed in the same layer as the layer in which the light transmission lower film OPVX is formed.

[0196] In another embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 11 to FIG. 13 The light transmission dam OPD can include a plurality of layers. For example, the light transmission dam OPD can include a first sub-dam SD01, a second sub-dam SD02, a third sub-dam SD03, and a fourth sub-dam SD04. The fourth sub-dam SD04 can include the same material as the light transmission lower film OPVX, and the first sub-dam SD01, the second sub-dam SD02, and the third sub-dam SD03 can be formed of the same material as the first organic film 160, the second organic film 180, and the bank 190, respectively.

[0197] In some embodiments, the light transmission film LT can be formed by an inkjet printing process. The light transmission lower film OPVX can be formed by a deposition process. The light transmission film LT can include a different material from the light transmission lower film OPVX. For example, the light transmission film LT can include an ester-based compound and a phosphine oxide compound. Specifically, the ester-based compound can contain 30 or less carbon atoms. The light transmission lower film OPVX can include propylene glycol methyl ether acetate, ethyl acrylate-benzyl methacrylate copolymer, and multi-functional acrylate, and a photoinitiator.

[0198] In some embodiments, the overcoat layer OC can be formed by a deposition process like the light transmission lower film OPVX. The overcoat layer OC can include propylene glycol methyl ether acetate, ethyl acrylate-benzyl methacrylate copolymer, and multi-functional acrylate, and a photoinitiator like the light transmission lower film OPVX.

[0199] Hereinafter, a method of manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment is described.

[0200] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method of manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a structure formed during a process S100 of FIG. 10 according to an embodiment. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a structure formed during a process S200 of FIG. 10 according to an embodiment. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a structure formed during a process S300 of FIG. 17 according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 and FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a structure formed during a process S400 of FIG. 10 according to an embodiment. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a structure formed during a process S500 of FIG. 10 according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 to FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a structure formed during a process S600 of FIG. 11 to FIG. 13 according to an embodiment.

[0201] Referring to FIG. 11 , a method S1 of manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment can include a process S100 of forming a light-transmissive lower film and a light-transmissive film, a process S200 of forming a first blocking layer, a process S300 of forming a light-blocking material layer, a process S400 of forming a second blocking layer, a process S500 of forming a light-blocking film, and a process S600 of forming an outer coating layer.

[0202] As illustrated in FIG. 11 to FIG. 13 , in the process S100 of forming a light-transmissive lower film and a light-transmissive film, a light-transmissive lower film OPVX and a light-transmissive film LT can be formed on a display layer DU or a touch sensor layer TSU. The light-transmissive lower film OPVX and the light-transmissive film LT can be formed by a photolithography process and an inkjet printing process. For example, a light-transmissive lower material layer OPVX_M as illustrated in FIG. 9A may be formed on the display layer DU or the touch sensor layer TSU by a deposition process.

[0203] Although not illustrated in FIG. 9B , a light-transmissive film dam OPD described above with reference to FIG. 12 and FIG. 9A may be formed in the process of forming the light-transmissive lower material layer OPVX_M.

[0204] Next, as illustrated in FIG. 9BAs shown, a light-transmitting material layer LT_M can be formed on the lower light-transmitting material layer OPVX_M. The light-transmitting material layer LT_M can be formed using an inkjet printing process. When the light-transmitting material layer LT_M is formed using an inkjet printing process, a light-transmitting film dam OPD (see...) can be used... FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 This is to prevent the light-transmitting material layer LT_M from overflowing.

[0205] Next, as FIG. 15 As shown, the light-transmitting film LT and the lower light-transmitting material layer OPVX can be formed by patterning the light-transmitting material layer LT_M and the lower light-transmitting material layer OPVX_M. The patterning of the light-transmitting material layer LT_M and the lower light-transmitting material layer OPVX_M can be performed using a photolithography process. Therefore, an opening LT_OP in the light-transmitting film LT and an opening OPVX_OP in the lower light-transmitting film OPVX can be formed. The opening LT_OP in the light-transmitting film LT and the opening OPVX_OP in the lower light-transmitting film OPVX together form an integral opening OP.

[0206] like FIG. 7 As shown, in process S200 of forming the first blocking layer, the first blocking layer STP1 can be formed on the display layer DU or touch sensor layer TSU, the lower light transmission film OPVX, and the light transmission film LT. For example, the first blocking layer STP1 can be formed on the inner surface of the opening OP and the upper surface of the light transmission film LT. The first blocking layer STP1 can be formed by a deposition process.

[0207] like FIG. 16 As shown, in process S300, which forms the light-blocking material layer, the light-blocking material layer LS_M can be formed on the first blocking layer STP1. For example, the light-blocking material layer LS_M can fill the interior portion of the opening OP. By allowing the light-blocking material layer LS_M to overflow from the opening OP, it can also be formed in the transmission region OA (see Figure 1). FIG. 17 In the light transmission film LT, a light blocking material layer LS_M is formed. The light blocking material layer LS_M may include an overflow portion LS_Ma located above the upper surface of the light transmission film LT or the upper surface of the first blocking layer STP1.

[0208] like FIG. 16 and FIG. 17 As shown, in process S400, which forms the second blocking layer, the second blocking layer STP2 can be formed on the light-blocking material layer LS_M. The second blocking layer STP2 can be formed or patterned by photolithography.

[0209] For example, such as FIG. 18 As shown, a blocking material layer STP2_M can be formed on the light-blocking material layer LS_M using a deposition process. Next, as...FIG. 15 As shown, the second blocking layer STP2 can be formed by patterning the blocking material layer STP2_M. The patterning of the blocking material layer STP2_M can be performed using a photolithography process.

[0210] like FIG. 15 As shown, in process S500 of forming the light-blocking film, the second blocking layer STP2 can be used as a mask to pattern the light-blocking material layer LS_M. Therefore, the light-blocking film LS can be formed by patterning the light-blocking material layer LS_M.

[0211] Although not shown in the accompanying drawings, the patterning processes of the blocking material layer STP2_M and the photoblocking material layer LS_M can be performed continuously, but at different etching rates. For example, the blocking material layer STP2_M comprises an inorganic material, and the photoblocking material layer LS_M comprises an organic material. Therefore, by adjusting the etching rate of the etchant, the patterning processes of the blocking material layer STP2_M and the photoblocking material layer LS_M can be performed as a continuous process. This improves process efficiency.

[0212] The method S1 for manufacturing the display device 10 according to this embodiment includes a second blocking layer STP2 comprising inorganic materials, and therefore can remove the light-blocking material layer LS_M comprising organic materials in the transmission region OA (see FIG. 19 During this process, the non-transmissive region LSA is prevented from being etched. Furthermore, in the display device 10 according to this embodiment, a second blocking layer STP2 comprising inorganic materials can be directly deposited on the light-blocking film LS, and therefore, it is not necessary to form an additional organic film on the light-blocking film LS using a metal hard mask, thereby simplifying the process and improving process efficiency.

[0213] By patterning the light-blocking material layer LS_M, the light-blocking material layer LS_M disposed in the transmission region OA can be removed, and only the light-blocking material layer LS_M disposed in the non-transmission region LSA can be retained. The light-blocking film LS may include a protruding portion LSa protruding from the upper surface of the light transmission film LT or the upper surface of the first blocking layer STP1 on the third-direction DR3.

[0214] The method S1 for manufacturing a display device according to this embodiment includes a first blocking layer STP1 comprising an inorganic material, and therefore can be used to remove the light-blocking material layer LS_M comprising an organic material (see [link to original text]). ​When etching, the light-transmitting film LT, which includes organic materials, is prevented from being etched. For example, since a first blocking layer STP1, which includes inorganic materials, is disposed on the light-transmitting film LT, the difference in etching rate between the light-blocking material layer LS_M and the first blocking layer STP1 can prevent the light-transmitting film LT from being etched after the light-blocking material layer LS_M disposed in the transmission region OA has been completely removed.

[0215] like ​ As shown, in process S600, which forms the outer coating, the outer coating OC can be formed on the first blocking layer STP1, the light blocking film LS, and the second blocking layer STP2. The outer coating OC can be formed by photolithography.

[0216] The method S1 for manufacturing a display device according to this embodiment includes a first blocking layer STP1, which prevents the height of the light transmission film LT from decreasing, and a second blocking layer STP2, which prevents the height of the light blocking film LS from decreasing. Therefore, the viewing angle control effect of the light control layer LCL can be improved.

[0217] According to the method S1 for manufacturing a display device in this embodiment, when removing the overflow portion LS_Ma, the process efficiency can be improved by performing an etching process instead of a chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) process. Furthermore, by performing an etching process instead of a CMP process that requires physical contact, the reliability of the light control layer LCL can be improved.

[0218] In concluding this detailed description, those skilled in the art will understand that many variations and modifications can be made to the exemplary embodiments without substantially departing from the principles of this disclosure. Therefore, the disclosed embodiments are used in a general and descriptive sense only and are not intended to be limiting.

Claims

1. A display device, characterized by Comprising: a substrate; a light emitting element layer provided on the substrate and including a plurality of light emitting elements; and a light control layer provided on the light emitting element layer, wherein the light control layer includes: a light transmission film including a plurality of regions spaced apart from each other; a first blocking layer provided on the light transmission film; and a light blocking film including a plurality of regions provided on the first blocking layer and between the regions of the light transmission film, respectively, wherein the first blocking layer covers upper surfaces and side surfaces of the regions of the light transmission film.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The first blocking layer is conformally provided on the regions of the light transmission film.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein Each of the regions of the light blocking film includes a protruding portion protruding from an upper surface of the first blocking layer or the upper surface of the regions of the light transmission film.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein Further comprising an outer coating layer provided on the first blocking layer and the light blocking film and covering upper surfaces and side surfaces of the protruding portions.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein Further comprising a second blocking layer provided on the regions of the light blocking film, wherein the second blocking layer includes a plurality of patterns provided on the regions of the light blocking film, respectively.

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The light control layer further includes a light transmission lower film including a plurality of regions provided below the regions of the light transmission film, respectively.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein Further comprising a dam provided on the substrate on a side of the plurality of light emitting elements and including the same material as the light transmission lower film.

8. The display device according to claim 7, wherein The regions of the light transmission film are disposed closer to the plurality of light emitting elements than the dam.

9. A display device, characterized by Comprising: a substrate; a light emitting element layer provided on the substrate and including a plurality of light emitting elements; and a light control layer provided on the light emitting element layer, wherein the light control layer includes: a light transmission film including a plurality of first openings; a first blocking layer provided on the light transmission film; and a light blocking film including a plurality of regions provided on the first blocking layer in the plurality of first openings, respectively, wherein the first blocking layer covers an upper surface of the light transmission film and inner surfaces of the plurality of first openings.

10. The display device according to claim 9, wherein The first blocking layer is conformally provided on the light transmission film.

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