Display device

Abstract

A display device is disclosed. The display device includes: a light emitting element layer including a light emitting region and a non-light emitting region adjacent to the light emitting region; and an optical path control layer disposed on the light-emitting element layer and configured to control a path of light provided from the light-emitting element layer, in which the optical path control layer includes a control pattern overlapping with the non-light-emitting region and not overlapping with the light-emitting region, in which the control pattern includes a polymer matrix and liquid crystal particles dispersed within the polymer matrix.

Description

[0001] Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This patent application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0022802, filed on February 16, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] Embodiments of the disclosure relate to a display device and a manufacturing method of a display device, and more particularly, to a display device including a light path control layer and a manufacturing method of a display device. BACKGROUND

[0004] Display devices for various devices such as televisions, mobile phones, tablet computers, and vehicles are being developed. Currently, display devices are being developed at least to address user environments requiring information protection and privacy and to address safety regulations that limit the viewing angle of display devices. Accordingly, research into the limitation of the viewing angle is being conducted, and display devices are being further developed. SUMMARY

[0005] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, a display device includes a light emitting element layer including a light emitting area and a non-light emitting area adjacent to the light emitting area, and a light path control layer disposed on the light emitting element layer and configured to control a path of light provided from the light emitting element layer, wherein the light path control layer includes a control pattern overlapping the non-light emitting area and not overlapping the light emitting area, and wherein the control pattern includes a polymer matrix and liquid crystal particles dispersed within the polymer matrix.

[0006] In an embodiment of the disclosure, the control pattern includes a first control pattern and a second control pattern spaced apart from each other, and the light emitting area is between the first control pattern and the second control pattern.

[0007] In an embodiment of the disclosure, the light path control layer further includes a filling pattern disposed between the first control pattern and the second control pattern, and an overcoat layer disposed on the first control pattern, the second control pattern, and the filling pattern.

[0008] In an embodiment of the disclosure, the filling pattern is in contact with each of a side surface of the first control pattern and a side surface of the second control pattern.

[0009] In an embodiment of the disclosure, an upper surface of the first control pattern, an upper surface of the second control pattern, and an upper surface of the filling pattern are substantially coplanar.

[0010] In an embodiment of the disclosure, a distance between the first control pattern and the second control pattern is substantially equal to a width of the light emitting area.

[0011] In an embodiment of the disclosure, the light path control layer further includes a first transparent electrode disposed on the control pattern and a second transparent electrode spaced apart from the first transparent electrode in a thickness direction, and the control pattern is disposed between the first transparent electrode and the second transparent electrode.

[0012] In an embodiment of the disclosure, the display device is configured to selectively operate in a first mode or a second mode, in the first mode, the first voltage is applied to the first transparent electrode and the second transparent electrode, and in the second mode, the first voltage is not applied to the first transparent electrode and the second transparent electrode.

[0013] In an embodiment of the disclosure, in the first mode, the control pattern transmits light provided from the light emitting element layer, and in the second mode, the control pattern scatters light provided from the light emitting element layer.

[0014] In an embodiment of the disclosure, the first transparent electrode includes a 1-1 sub-electrode and a 1-2 sub-electrode spaced apart from each other, and the second transparent electrode includes a 2-1 sub-electrode overlapping the 1-1 sub-electrode and a 2-2 sub-electrode overlapping the 1-2 sub-electrode.

[0015] In an embodiment of the disclosure, the display device is configured to selectively operate in one of a first mode, a second mode, and a third mode, in the first mode, the first voltage is applied to the 1-1 sub-electrode and the 2-1 sub-electrode and the second voltage is applied to the 1-2 sub-electrode and the 2-2 sub-electrode, in the second mode, the first voltage is applied to the 1-1 sub-electrode and the 2-1 sub-electrode and the second voltage is not applied to the 1-2 sub-electrode and the 2-2 sub-electrode, and in the third mode, the first voltage is not applied to the 1-1 sub-electrode and the 2-1 sub-electrode and the second voltage is not applied to the 1-2 sub-electrode and the 2-2 sub-electrode.

[0016] In an embodiment of the disclosure, the control pattern includes a first portion overlapping the 1-1 sub-electrode and a second portion overlapping the 1-2 sub-electrode, and the first portion and the second portion have an integrated shape.

[0017] In an embodiment of the disclosure, the light emitting element layer includes a pixel definition layer including a pixel opening defining the light emitting area, and a light emitting layer at least partially disposed in the pixel opening and configured to provide light, wherein the control pattern overlaps the pixel definition layer.

[0018] In an embodiment of the disclosure, the light emitting region includes a first light emitting region configured to emit light of a first wavelength, a second light emitting region configured to emit light of a second wavelength different from the first wavelength, and a third light emitting region configured to emit light of a third wavelength different from each of the first wavelength and the second wavelength, and the control pattern overlaps each of a portion between the first light emitting region and the second light emitting region and a portion between the second light emitting region and the third light emitting region.

[0019] In an embodiment of the disclosure, the display device further includes an input sensor disposed between the light path control layer and the light emitting element layer.

[0020] In an embodiment of the disclosure, the light path control layer is directly disposed on the input sensor.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, a display device includes a light emitting element layer including a light emitting region and a non-light emitting region at least partially surrounding the light emitting region, and a light path control layer disposed on the light emitting element layer and configured to control a path of light provided from the light emitting element layer, wherein the light path control layer includes a first transparent electrode disposed on the light emitting element layer, a control pattern disposed on the first transparent electrode, and the control pattern including a polymer matrix and liquid crystal particles dispersed within the polymer matrix, and a second transparent electrode spaced apart from the first transparent electrode in a thickness direction, and the control pattern is disposed between the second transparent electrode and the first transparent electrode, wherein the first transparent electrode includes a 1-1 sub-electrode and a 1-2 sub-electrode spaced apart from each other, and the second transparent electrode includes a 2-1 sub-electrode overlapping the 1-1 sub-electrode and a 2-2 sub-electrode overlapping the 1-2 sub-electrode.

[0022] In an embodiment of the disclosure, the control pattern includes a first portion overlapping the 1-1 sub-electrode and a second portion overlapping the 1-2 sub-electrode, and the first portion and the second portion have an integrated shape.

[0023] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, a manufacturing method of a display device includes forming a light emitting element layer, and forming a light path control layer on the light emitting element layer, wherein the forming of the light path control layer includes forming a first preliminary transparent layer by a conductive material, providing a polymer in which liquid crystal molecules are dispersed onto the first preliminary transparent layer to form a preliminary separation layer, patterning the first preliminary transparent layer and the preliminary separation layer to form a first transparent electrode and a control pattern, providing an organic material onto the control pattern to form a preliminary organic layer, polishing the preliminary organic layer to form a filling pattern, forming a second transparent electrode on the control pattern by a conductive material, and forming an outer coating layer covering the second transparent electrode and the filling pattern.

[0024] In an embodiment of the disclosure, when the filling pattern is formed, the upper surfaces of each of the control pattern and the filling pattern are planarized by polishing. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0025] The above and other features of the present disclosure will become more apparent by describing in detail embodiments thereof with reference to the attached drawings in which:

[0026] Figure 1A is a front view of a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0027] Figure 1B is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0028] Figure 2A is a diagram showing an interior of a vehicle provided with a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0029] Figure 2B is a diagram showing an image viewed from a driver's seat when a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure is operated in a second mode;

[0030] Figure 3A is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0031] Figure 3B is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0032] Figure 4 is a block diagram of a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0033] Figure 5 is an enlarged plan view showing a portion of a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0034] Figure 6A is a graph showing luminance according to a viewing angle when a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure is operated in a first mode;

[0035] Figure 6B is a graph showing luminance according to a viewing angle when a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure is operated in a second mode;

[0036] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0037] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0038] Figure 9A is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure operated in a first mode;

[0039] Figure 9B is a cross-sectional view of a display device operating in a second mode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of a display device operating in a second mode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0042] Figure 12A is a flowchart of a manufacturing method of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0043] Figure 12B is a flowchart of some steps of a manufacturing method of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0044] Figure 13A , Figure 13B , Figure 13C , Figure 13D and Figure 13E are cross-sectional views showing some steps of a manufacturing method of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] In this specification, it will be understood that when an element (or area, layer, or part, etc.) is referred to as being “on”, “connected to”, or “coupled to” another element, it can be directly present on, directly connected to, or directly coupled to, the another element or an intervening element can be present between the element and the another element.

[0046] Also, in this specification, the term “directly disposed” can refer to the absence of an intervening layer, film, region, or substrate, etc. between a layer, film, region, or substrate, etc. and another layer, film, region, or substrate, etc. For example, the term “directly disposed” can refer to two layers or two members being disposed on each other without using an additional member such as an adhesive member.

[0047] Throughout the specification and the drawings, like reference numerals or symbols can refer to like elements. Also, various thicknesses, lengths, and angles are shown, and although the shown arrangements do represent embodiments of the present disclosure, it is to be understood that modifications to the various thicknesses, lengths, and angles can be made within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to the particular thicknesses, lengths, and angles shown. As used in this document, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0048] It will be understood that although the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or parts, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or part from another element, component, region, layer, or part. Therefore, without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, the first element, first component, first region, first layer, or first part discussed below may be named a second element, second component, second region, second layer, or second part. Similarly, a second element, second component, second region, second layer, or second part may be named a first element, first component, first region, first layer, or first part. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, singular terms may include plural forms.

[0049] Furthermore, terms such as “below,” “under,” “above,” and “above” may be used to describe the relationships between the components shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms serve as spatial relative concepts and are described based on the directions indicated in the drawings. It will be understood that, in addition to the orientations depicted in the drawings, the spatial relative terms are also intended to cover different orientations of the device during use or operation. For example, if the device in the drawings is flipped, then an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features will then be oriented “above” said other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “below” can cover both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptive terms used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0050] In the following description, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0051] Figure 1A This is a front view of a display device DD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1B This is a perspective view of a display device DD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] refer to Figure 1A and Figure 1B The display device DD can be activated in response to an electrical signal. The display device DD can be applied to electronic devices such as mobile phones, smartwatches, laptops, computers (e.g., tablets), and smart TVs.

[0053] The display device DD can display an image IM in a display surface IS that is parallel to each of a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2 that intersects the first direction DR1. The display surface IS in which the image IM is displayed can correspond to a front surface of the display device DD. The image IM can include a still image as well as a dynamic image. A normal direction of the display surface IS, which is a thickness direction of the display device DD, is indicated by a third direction DR3. A front surface (or, for example, an upper surface) and a rear surface (or, for example, a lower surface) of each of the layers and units described hereinafter are distinguished based on the third direction DR3.

[0054] The display surface IS of the display device DD can be divided into a display region DA and a non-display region NDA. The display region DA can be a region in which the image IM is displayed. The user views the image IM through the display region DA. In the present embodiment, the display region DA is shown as a rectangle with rounded corners. However, this is an example. For example, the display region DA can have various shapes, and is not limited to any one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] The non-display region NDA is adjacent to the display region DA. The non-display region NDA can have a predetermined color. The non-display region NDA can at least partially surround the display region DA. Thus, the shape of the display region DA can be substantially defined by the non-display region NDA. However, this is an example, and the non-display region NDA can be provided adjacent to only one side of the display region DA, or the non-display region NDA can also be omitted. The display device DD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can include various embodiments, and is not limited to any one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] Figure 1A A front view of the display device DD that can be operating in a first mode or a second mode. Figure 1B A side surface perspective view of the display device DD that can be operating in a second mode. For example, the first mode can be a general mode in which a screen is displayed at a first viewing angle, and the second mode can be a viewing angle control mode in which a screen is displayed at a second viewing angle that is narrower than the first viewing angle. The second mode can be referred to as a privacy mode, a privacy protection mode, etc. The first viewing angle and the second viewing angle can be defined as angles that can be viewed without distortion with respect to a normal direction of the display surface IS at which a picture can be viewed.

[0057] Reference Figure 1AIn the first mode or the second mode, when the display device DD is viewed from the front (or in a direction parallel to the normal direction or the third direction DR3), the user can view the image IM generated from the display device DD. In the second mode, when the display device DD is viewed at an angle greater than the angle of the second viewing angle, the image IM can not be viewed. For reference, when the display device DD is viewed at an angle greater than the angle of the second viewing angle in the first mode, the user can view the image IM.

[0058] The second viewing angle in the second mode and the luminance at the second viewing angle can be set differently. For example, the second viewing angle can be about 45 degrees, and the luminance at about 45 degrees can be about 10% of the maximum luminance, but embodiments of the disclosure are not particularly limited thereto.

[0059] The display device DD can selectively operate in any one of the first mode in which a screen is displayed at the first viewing angle or the second mode in which a screen is displayed at the second viewing angle narrower than the first viewing angle. The transition between the first mode and the second mode can be set by the user, or the transition from the first mode to the second mode can be made when a specific application is executed. For example, when an application is executed and there is a risk that personal information (such as a bank or memo application) is exposed, the display device DD can switch from the first mode to the second mode.

[0060] Figure 2A FIG. 1 is a view illustrating the inside of a vehicle AM in which a display device DDa according to an embodiment of the disclosure is disposed. Figure 2B FIG. 2 is a view illustrating images IM-1 and IM-2 viewed from the seat of the driver US when the display device DDa according to an embodiment of the disclosure operates in the second mode.

[0061] Referring to Figure 2A The display device DDa can be disposed inside the vehicle AM. The display device DDa can be disposed inside the vehicle AM to provide various information to the driver US. The display device DDa can include a first display device DDa-1 and a second display device DDa-2. The first display device DDa-1 can provide the driver US with a first image IM-1 for driving. The second display device DDa-2 can be disposed at a position facing the passenger seat, and the second display device DDa-2 can provide a second image IM-2. For example, the first image IM-1 can display information about speed, vehicle conditions, vehicle interior manipulation, and navigation, etc., and the second image IM-2 can display not only information for driving but also various information irrelevant to driving.

[0062] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first display device DDa-1 and the second display device DDa-2 can be display devices independent of each other, and can also be one display device including one panel. In the case of the display devices being independent of each other, the first display device DDa-1 can not include an operation of controlling a viewing angle, and the second display device DDa-2 can operate in the first mode or the second mode. In the case of the first display device DDa-1 and the second display device DDa-2 being one display device DDa, both the first display device DDa-1 and the second display device DDa-2 can operate in the first mode or the second mode. In addition, only the second display device DDa-2 can partially operate in the first mode or the second mode.

[0063] The first mode can be a general mode in which a screen is displayed at a first viewing angle, and the second mode can be a viewing angle control mode in which a screen is displayed at a second viewing angle narrower than the first viewing angle. The second viewing angle in the second mode and the luminance at the second viewing angle can be differently set. For example, the second viewing angle and the luminance at the second viewing angle can be set according to a country-specific regulation of operating a vehicle AM. For example, the second viewing angle can be about 35 degrees, and the luminance at about 35 degrees can be about 0.75% of the maximum luminance, but embodiments of the disclosure are not particularly limited thereto.

[0064] Figure 2B An image seen by a driver US who is driving is shown. The driver US can watch only the first image IM-1 which can be necessary for driving, and can not see the second image IM-2 which can display information unnecessary for driving due to a limitation of a viewing angle (see Figure 2A ).

[0065] The transition between the first mode and the second mode can be determined according to whether the vehicle AM is traveling or stopping. For example, when the vehicle AM is traveling, at least the second display device DDa-2 can operate in the second mode. When the vehicle AM is stopping, the second display device DDa-2 can operate in the first mode. In addition, even if the vehicle AM is traveling, but in an autonomous mode, the second display device DDa-2 can operate in the first mode. When operating in the first mode, the driver US can watch the first image IM-1 shown in FIG. 1B. Figure 2A

[0066] Figure 3A is a cross-sectional view of a display device DDa according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0067] Referring to Figure 3A , the display device DDa can include a display panel DP and an optical path control layer OSL. A protection film, a window, or a functional coating layer providing a front surface of the display device DDa can be disposed on the optical path control layer OSL. ​

[0068] The display panel DP can include a display layer DPL and an input sensor ISL.

[0069] The display layer DPL can include a base layer 110, a circuit layer 120, a light emitting element layer 130, and an encapsulation layer 140. The display layer DPL can be a component that generates an image IM (see Figure 1A ). The display layer DPL can be an emissive display layer, and for example, the display layer DPL can be an organic light emitting display layer, an inorganic light emitting display layer, an organic-inorganic light emitting display layer, a quantum dot display layer, a micro light emitting diode (LED) display layer, or a nano LED display layer.

[0070] The input sensor ISL can detect an external input applied from the outside. The external input can be a user's input. The user's input can include various types of external inputs such as a part of the user's body, light, heat, a pen, or pressure. The input sensor ISL can be referred to as a sensor, an input sensing layer, or an input sensing panel. The input sensor ISL can be formed with the display layer DPL through a continuous process to be disposed on the display layer DPL. For example, the input sensor ISL can be directly disposed on the display layer DPL. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not particularly limited thereto. For example, the input sensor ISL can also be bonded to the display layer DPL through an adhesive layer.

[0071] The optical path control layer OSL can control a path of light provided from the display layer DPL. The optical path control layer OSL can include a structure for controlling a path of light. The optical path control layer OSL can be disposed on the input sensor ISL. The optical path control layer OSL can be formed with the display layer DPL and the input sensor ISL through a continuous process to be disposed on the input sensor ISL. For example, the optical path control layer OSL can be directly disposed on the input sensor ISL. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not particularly limited thereto. For example, the optical path control layer OSL can be bonded to the input sensor ISL through an adhesive layer.

[0072] Figure 3B is a cross-sectional view of a display device DDb according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0073] Referring to Figure 3B , the display device DDb can include a display layer DPL and an optical path control layer OSL. In comparison with Figure 3A , the display device DDb can not include an input sensor ISL (see Figure 3A ). The optical path control layer OSL can be formed with the display layer DPL through a continuous process to be disposed on the display layer DPL. For example, the optical path control layer OSL can be directly disposed on the display layer DPL. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not particularly limited thereto.

[0074] Figure 4 is a block diagram of a display device DD according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0075] Referring to Figure 4 , the display device DD can further include a drive controller 100 and a panel driver for driving the display layer DPL. As an embodiment of the disclosure, the panel driver can include a data driving circuit 200 (or a data driver), a driving circuit 300, and a voltage generator 400.

[0076] The display layer DPL can include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA. The display layer DPL can include a plurality of pixels PX disposed in the display area DA. Each of the plurality of pixels PX includes a light emitting element ED (see Figure 7 ) and a pixel driving circuit that controls emission of the light emitting element ED. The pixel driving circuit can include at least one transistor and at least one capacitor.

[0077] The display layer DPL can further include initialization scan lines GIL1 to GILn, write scan lines GWL1 to GWLn, black scan lines GBL1 to GBLn, first emission control lines EML11 to EML1n, second emission control lines EML21 to EML2n, and data lines DL1, DL2, …, and DLm. Here, n and m can each be an integer greater than or equal to 1. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the display layer DPL can further include other emission control lines, for example, third emission control lines.

[0078] The drive controller 100 receives the image signal RGB and the control signal CTRL. The drive controller 100 generates in which the data format of the image signal RGB has been converted into an image data signal DATA having an interface specification according to the data driving circuit 200. The drive controller 100 can output a first control signal SCS, a second control signal DCS, and a third control signal VCS.

[0079] The data driving circuit 200 receives the second control signal DCS and the image data signal DATA from the drive controller 100. The data driving circuit 200 converts the image data signal DATA into a data signal, and outputs the data signal through the data lines DL1 to DLm. The data signal is an analog voltage corresponding to a gray value of the image data signal DATA. The data lines DL1 to DLm can be arranged along the second direction DR2, and the data lines DL1 to DLm can each extend along the first direction DR1.

[0080] The drive circuit 300 can be provided in the non-display area NDA of the display layer DPL, but embodiments of the present disclosure are not particularly limited thereto. For example, at least a part of the drive circuit 300 can also be provided in the display area DA. For example, the drive circuit 300 can include a transistor formed by the same process as that of the pixel drive circuit.

[0081] The drive circuit 300 can receive the first control signal SCS, and can output scan signals and emission control signals by initializing the scan lines GIL1 to GILn, the write scan lines GWL1 to GWLn, the black scan lines GBL1 to GBLn, the first emission control lines EML11 to EML1n, and the second emission control lines EML21 to EML2n.

[0082] The drive circuit 300 can be provided in plural. For example, the plural drive circuits 300 can be spaced apart from each other, and the display area DA is provided between the plural drive circuits 300. The initialization scan lines GIL1 to GILn, the write scan lines GWL1 to GWLn, the black scan lines GBL1 to GBLn, the first emission control lines EML11 to EML1n, and the second emission control lines EML21 to EML2n can each be electrically connected to the drive circuit 300 to receive a signal from the drive circuit 300. For example, one initialization scan line GIL1, one write scan line GWL1, one black scan line GBL1, one first emission control line EML11, and one second emission control line EML21 can each receive the same signal from two drive circuits 300. However, this is merely an example, and one of the two drive circuits 300 shown in FIG. 3 can be omitted. Figure 4

[0083] The drive circuit 300 can each include a scan drive circuit and an emission control drive circuit. The scan drive circuit is connected to the initialization scan lines GIL1 to GILn, the write scan lines GWL1 to GWLn, and the black scan lines GBL1 to GBLn, and the emission control drive circuit is connected to the first emission control lines EML11 to EML1n and the second emission control lines EML21 to EML2n. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the scan drive circuit and the emission control drive circuit can be spaced apart from each other, and the display area DA is provided between the scan drive circuit and the emission control drive circuit.

[0084] ​The initialization scan lines GIL1 to GILn, the write scan lines GWL1 to GWLn, the black scan lines GBL1 to GBLn, the first emission control lines EML11 to EML1n, and the second emission control lines EML21 to EML2n can each extend in the second direction DR2, and the initialization scan lines GIL1 to GILn, the write scan lines GWL1 to GWLn, the black scan lines GBL1 to GBLn, the first emission control lines EML11 to EML1n, and the second emission control lines EML21 to EML2n can be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1.

[0085] Each of the multiple pixels (PX) can be electrically connected to three scan lines, two emission control lines, and one data line. For example, as... Figure 4 As shown, the pixel PX in the first row can be connected to scan lines GIL1, GWL1, and GBL1, as well as the first transmit control line EML11 and the second transmit control line EML21. The pixel PX in the first column can be connected to data line DL1. Additionally, the pixel PX in the j-th row can be connected to scan lines GILj, GWLj, and GBLj, as well as the first transmit control line EML1j and the second transmit control line EML2j. Here, j is an integer greater than or equal to 1 and less than or equal to n.

[0086] Voltage generator 400 generates voltages for the operation of the display panel DP. In this embodiment, voltage generator 400 may generate a first drive voltage ELVDD, a second drive voltage ELVSS, a first initialization voltage Vint, and a second initialization voltage Aint.

[0087] Figure 5 This illustrates a display device DD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure (see also...). Figure 4 An enlarged plan view of a portion of the image. Figure 5 This shows the display layer DPL (see Figure 4 The display area DA (see) Figure 4 The diagram shows a plan view of the display device DD, and illustrates the arrangement of multiple light-emitting areas PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B.

[0088] refer to Figure 5 The display area DA may include a first light-emitting area PXA-R, a second light-emitting area PXA-G, and a third light-emitting area PXA-B, as well as a non-light-emitting area NPXA that at least partially surrounds the first light-emitting area PXA-R, the second light-emitting area PXA-G, and the third light-emitting area PXA-B. The first light-emitting area PXA-R, the second light-emitting area PXA-G, and the third light-emitting area PXA-B may correspond to light-emitting elements ED1, ED2, and ED3, respectively (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 8) the area in which light is emitted. The first light emitting area PXA-R, the second light emitting area PXA-G, and the third light emitting area PXA-B can be distinguished from each other according to the color of light emitted to the outside of the display device DD (see Figure 4 ).

[0089] The first light emitting area PXA-R, the second light emitting area PXA-G, and the third light emitting area PXA-B can each provide the first color light to the third color light of different colors from each other. For example, the first color light can be red light. The second color light can be green light, and the third color light can be blue light. However, examples of the first color light to the third color light are not necessarily limited to the above-described examples.

[0090] The first light emitting area PXA-R, the second light emitting area PXA-G, and the third light emitting area PXA-B can each be an area in which the upper surface of the anode is exposed by a pixel opening to be described later. The non-light emitting area NPXA can set the boundary of the first light emitting area PXA-R, the second light emitting area PXA-G, and the third light emitting area PXA-B, and prevent color mixing between the first light emitting area PXA-R, the second light emitting area PXA-G, and the third light emitting area PXA-B.

[0091] The first light emitting area PXA-R, the second light emitting area PXA-G, and the third light emitting area PXA-B can each be provided as a plurality, and thus can be repeatedly provided in a predetermined arrangement in the display area DA. For example, the first light emitting area PXA-R and the third light emitting area PXA-B can be alternately arranged along the first direction DR1 to form a "first group". The second light emitting area PXA-G can be arranged along the first direction DR1 to form a "second group". The "first group" and the "second group" can each be provided as a plurality, and the "first group" and the "second group" can be alternately arranged along the second direction DR2.

[0092] One second light emitting area PXA-G can be provided to be spaced apart from one first light emitting area PXA-R or one third light emitting area PXA-B in a fourth direction DR4. The fourth direction DR4 can be a direction between the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0093] In addition, Figure 5 The arrangement of the first light emitting area PXA-R, the second light emitting area PXA-G, and the third light emitting area PXA-B is illustrated, but embodiments of the disclosure are not limited thereto, and the arrangement form can vary. In embodiments of the disclosure, the first light emitting area PXA-R, the second light emitting area PXA-G, and the third light emitting area PXA-B can have an arrangement as illustrated in Figure 5 ​arrangement. In addition, the first light emitting area PXA-R, the second light emitting area PXA-G, and the third light emitting area PXA-B can also have a stripe arrangement or a Diamond Pixel arrangement TM arrangement.

[0094] Each of the first light emitting area PXA-R, the second light emitting area PXA-G, and the third light emitting area PXA-B can have various shapes on a plane. For example, each of the first light emitting area PXA-R, the second light emitting area PXA-G, and the third light emitting area PXA-B can have a polygonal shape, a circular shape, or an elliptical shape, etc. Figure 5 The first light emitting area PXA-R and the third light emitting area PXA-B are shown to have a quadrangular shape (or a rhombic shape) on a plane, and the second light emitting area PXA-G has an octagonal shape.

[0095] The first light emitting area PXA-R, the second light emitting area PXA-G, and the third light emitting area PXA-B can have the same shape as each other, or at least some of the first light emitting area PXA-R, the second light emitting area PXA-G, and the third light emitting area PXA-B can have different shapes from each other on a plane. Figure 5 The first light emitting area PXA-R and the third light emitting area PXA-B are shown to have the same shape as each other on a plane, and the second light emitting area PXA-G has a shape different from that of the first light emitting area PXA-R and the third light emitting area PXA-B.

[0096] At least some of the first light emitting area PXA-R, the second light emitting area PXA-G, and the third light emitting area PXA-B can have different areas from each other on a plane. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the area of the first light emitting area PXA-R that emits red light can be larger than the area of the second light emitting area PXA-G that emits green light and smaller than the area of the third light emitting area PXA-B that emits blue light. However, the dimensional relationship between the areas of the first light emitting area PXA-R, the second light emitting area PXA-G, and the third light emitting area PXA-B according to the color of light emission is not limited thereto, and can vary according to the design of the display device DD (see Figure 4 ). In addition, embodiments of the disclosure are not limited thereto, and the first light emitting area PXA-R, the second light emitting area PXA-G, and the third light emitting area PXA-B can have the same area as each other on a plane.

[0097] In addition, according to embodiments of the disclosure, the display device DD (see Figure 4The shape, area, arrangement, etc. of the first light emitting region PXA-R, the second light emitting region PXA-G, and the third light emitting region PXA-B can be variously designed according to the color of light to be emitted and the size and composition of the display module, and are not limited to those of the embodiment shown in Figure 5

[0098] Figure 6A is a graph showing luminance according to a viewing angle when the display device DD (see Figure 1A ) according to an embodiment of the disclosure is operated in the first mode. Figure 6B is a graph showing luminance according to a viewing angle when the display device DD (see Figure 1A ) according to an embodiment of the disclosure is operated in the second mode.

[0099] Referring to Figure 5 and Figure 6A , the luminance at a viewing angle of about 45 degrees can be about 40% of the maximum luminance when the display device DD (see Figure 1A ) is operated in the first mode. Accordingly, the displayed image IM (see Figure 1A ) in the display device DD (see Figure 1A ) can be visible at a viewing angle of about 45 degrees.

[0100] Referring to Figure 5 and Figure 6B , the luminance at a viewing angle of about 45 degrees can be close to about 0% of the maximum luminance when the display device DD (see Figure 1A ) is operated in the second mode. Accordingly, the displayed image IM (see Figure 1A ) in the display device DD (see Figure 1A ) can be invisible at a viewing angle of about 45 degrees.

[0101] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the display device DD (see Figure 1A ) can be switched to the first mode or the second mode. For example, according to a user's selection or a predetermined rule, the display device DD (see Figure 1A ) can be operated in the second mode in which the viewing angle is limited.

[0102] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the display device DD according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 7 shows a cross-section corresponding to the line I-I' shown in Figure 5

[0103] Referring to Figure 7 , the display layer DPL can include a base layer 110, a circuit layer 120, a light emitting element layer 130, and an encapsulation layer 140.

[0104] ​​The base layer 110 can be a member that provides a base surface on which the circuit layer 120 is disposed. The base layer 110 can include a synthetic resin layer. The synthetic resin layer can be a polyimide-based resin layer, and the material is not particularly limited thereto. In addition, the base layer 110 can include, for example, a glass substrate, a metal substrate, or an organic / inorganic composite material substrate, etc.

[0105] At least one inorganic layer is formed on an upper surface of the base layer 110. For example, the inorganic layer can include at least one of aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, zirconium oxide, and hafnium oxide. The inorganic layer can be formed as a plurality of layers. The inorganic layer of the plurality of layers can include a barrier layer and / or a buffer layer. In the present embodiment, the display layer DPL is shown to include a buffer layer BFL.

[0106] The buffer layer BFL can increase the bonding force between the base layer 110 and the semiconductor pattern. The buffer layer BFL can include, for example, at least one of silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride. For example, the buffer layer BFL can include a structure in which a silicon oxide layer and a silicon nitride layer are stacked alternately with each other.

[0107] The semiconductor pattern can be disposed on the buffer layer BFL. The semiconductor pattern can include polysilicon. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the semiconductor pattern can also include amorphous silicon, low-temperature polysilicon, or an oxide semiconductor.

[0108] Figure 7 Only a portion of the semiconductor pattern is shown, and the semiconductor pattern can be disposed in other areas. The semiconductor pattern can be arranged in a specific arrangement across the pixels PX (see Figure 4 ). The semiconductor pattern can vary in electrical properties depending on whether it is doped or not. The semiconductor pattern can include a first region having a high electrical conductivity and a second region having a low electrical conductivity. The first region can be doped with an N-type dopant or a P-type dopant. A P-type transistor can include a region doped with a P-type dopant, and an N-type transistor can include a region doped with an N-type dopant. The second region can be an undoped region or a region doped with a lower concentration than that of the first region.

[0109] The electrical conductivity of the first region can be higher than that of the second region, and the first region can substantially function as an electrode or a signal line. The second region can substantially correspond to an active region (or a channel) of a transistor. For example, a portion of the semiconductor pattern can be an active region of a transistor, another portion of the semiconductor pattern can be a source region or a drain region of a transistor, yet another portion of the semiconductor pattern can be a remaining portion of the source region and the drain region of the transistor, and yet another portion of the semiconductor pattern can be a connection electrode or a connection signal line.

[0110] Figure 7A transistor PXC-T and a light emitting element ED included in the pixel PX are shown.

[0111] The source region SC, the active region AL (or active portion, active area), and the drain region DR of the transistor PXC-T can be formed of a semiconductor pattern. The source region SC and the drain region DR can extend in directions opposite to each other from the active region AL in a cross section. For example, the source region SC and the drain region DR can be provided at opposite sides of the active region AL. Figure 7 A portion formed of a semiconductor pattern that connects the signal line SCL is shown. The signal line SCL can be connected to the drain region DR of the transistor PXC-T in a plan view.

[0112] The first insulating layer 10 can be provided on the buffer layer BFL. The first insulating layer 10 can overlap the plurality of pixels PX in common, and can cover the semiconductor pattern. The first insulating layer 10 can be an inorganic layer and / or an organic layer, and can have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure. The first insulating layer 10 can include at least one of, for example, aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, zirconium oxide, and hafnium oxide. In the present embodiment, the first insulating layer 10 can be a single-layer silicon oxide layer. Not only the first insulating layer 10 but also an insulating layer of the circuit layer 120 which will be described later can be an inorganic layer and / or an organic layer, and can have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure. The inorganic layer can include at least one of the above-described materials, but embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0113] The gate electrode GT of the transistor PXC-T is provided on the first insulating layer 10. The gate electrode GT can be a portion of a metal pattern. The gate electrode GT overlaps the active region AL. The gate electrode GT can function as a mask in a process of doping the semiconductor pattern.

[0114] The second insulating layer 20 can be provided on the first insulating layer 10 and cover the gate electrode GT. The second insulating layer 20 can overlap the pixel PX in common. The second insulating layer 20 can be an inorganic layer and / or an organic layer, and can have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure. The second insulating layer 20 can include at least one of, for example, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride. In the present embodiment, the second insulating layer 20 can have a multi-layer structure including a silicon oxide layer and a silicon nitride layer.

[0115] The third insulating layer 30 can be provided on the second insulating layer 20. The third insulating layer 30 can have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure. For example, the third insulating layer 30 can have a multi-layer structure including a silicon oxide layer and a silicon nitride layer.

[0116] The first connection electrode CNE1 can be provided on the third insulating layer 30. The first connection electrode CNE1 can be connected to the connection signal line SCL through a contact hole CNT-1 passing through the first insulating layer 10, the second insulating layer 20, and the third insulating layer 30.

[0117] The fourth insulating layer 40 can be provided on the third insulating layer 30. The fourth insulating layer 40 can be a single-layered silicon oxide layer. The fifth insulating layer 50 can be provided on the fourth insulating layer 40. The fifth insulating layer 50 can be an organic layer.

[0118] The second connection electrode CNE2 can be provided on the fifth insulating layer 50. The second connection electrode CNE2 can be connected to the first connection electrode CNE1 through a contact hole CNT-2 passing through the fourth insulating layer 40 and the fifth insulating layer 50.

[0119] The sixth insulating layer 60 can be provided on the fifth insulating layer 50 and cover the second connection electrode CNE2. The sixth insulating layer 60 can be an organic layer.

[0120] Figure 7 The stacking relationship of the circuit layer 120 shown in FIG. 1 is merely an example, and embodiments of the present disclosure are not particularly limited thereto. For example, at least any one of the first insulating layer 10, the second insulating layer 20, the third insulating layer 30, the fourth insulating layer 40, the fifth insulating layer 50, and the sixth insulating layer 60 can be omitted, and other insulating layers can be additionally provided.

[0121] The light emitting element layer 130 can be provided on the circuit layer 120. The light emitting element layer 130 can include a light emitting element ED. For example, the light emitting element layer 130 can include an organic light emitting material, an inorganic light emitting material, an organic-inorganic light emitting material, a quantum dot, a quantum rod, a micro-LED, or a nano-LED. Hereinafter, the light emitting element ED is described as an organic light emitting element as an example, but embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0122] The light emitting element ED can include a first electrode AE, a light emitting layer EL, and a second electrode CE.

[0123] The first electrode AE can be provided on the sixth insulating layer 60. The first electrode AE can be connected to the second connection electrode CNE2 through a contact hole CNT-3 passing through the sixth insulating layer 60.

[0124] The pixel defining layer 70 can be provided on the sixth insulating layer 60 and can cover a portion of the first electrode AE. A pixel opening 70-OP is provided in the pixel defining layer 70. The pixel opening 70-OP of the pixel defining layer 70 can expose at least a portion of the first electrode AE.

[0125] Figure 7A first light emitting region PXA-R of the display region DA is shown as an example. The display region DA (see Figure 5 ) can include the first light emitting region PXA-R and a non-light emitting region NPXA adjacent to the first light emitting region PXA-R. The non-light emitting region NPXA can surround the first light emitting region PXA-R. In the present embodiment, the first light emitting region PXA-R can correspond to a partial region of the first electrode AE exposed by the pixel opening 70-OP. In addition, Figure 7 Each of the components of the display device DD is shown on a cross section corresponding to the first light emitting region PXA-R, and similar descriptions can be applied to cross sections corresponding to the second light emitting region PXA-G and the third light emitting region PXA-B.

[0126] A light emitting layer EL can be provided on the first electrode AE. The light emitting layer EL can be provided in a region corresponding to the pixel opening 70-OP. For example, the light emitting layer EL can be formed individually for each pixel PX. When the light emitting layer EL is formed individually for each pixel PX, the light emitting layers EL can each emit light of at least one color among blue, red, and green. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the light emitting layer EL can also be commonly provided in the pixel PX. In this case, the light emitting layer EL can provide blue light, or can also provide white light.

[0127] A second electrode CE can be provided on the light emitting layer EL. The second electrode CE can have an integral shape and can be commonly provided in the plurality of pixels PX (see Figure 4 ).

[0128] A hole control layer can be provided between the first electrode AE and the light emitting layer EL. The hole control layer can be commonly provided in the light emitting region PXA and the non-light emitting region NPXA. The hole control layer can include a hole transport layer, and can also include a hole injection layer. An electron control layer can be provided between the light emitting layer EL and the second electrode CE. The electron control layer can include an electron transport layer, and can also include an electron injection layer. The hole control layer and the electron control layer can be commonly formed in the plurality of pixels PX (see Figure 4 ) by using an opening mask.

[0129] An encapsulation layer 140 can be provided on the light emitting element layer 130. The encapsulation layer 140 can include inorganic layers, organic layers, and inorganic layers stacked one after another, but the layers constituting the encapsulation layer 140 are not limited thereto.

[0130] The inorganic layer can protect the light emitting element layer 130 from moisture and oxygen, and the organic layer can protect the light emitting element layer 130 from foreign substances such as dust particles. The inorganic layer can include, for example, a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer, etc. The organic layer can include an acrylate-based organic layer, and embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0131] The input sensor ISL can include a base layer 150, a first conductive layer 160, a sensing insulating layer 170, a second conductive layer 180, and a cover insulating layer 190.

[0132] The base layer 150 can be an inorganic layer including at least one of, for example, silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, and silicon oxide. In addition, the base layer 150 can also be an organic layer including an epoxy-based resin, an acrylate-based resin, or an imide-based resin. The base layer 150 can have a single layer structure, or can have a multi-layer structure stacked along a third direction DR3. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the base layer 150 can be omitted.

[0133] The first conductive layer 160 and the second conductive layer 180 can each have a single layer structure, or can have a multi-layer structure stacked along a third direction DR3.

[0134] The single layer conductive layer can include a metal layer or a transparent conductive layer. The metal layer can include, for example, molybdenum, silver, titanium, copper, aluminum, or an alloy thereof. The transparent conductive layer can include a transparent conductive oxide such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), or indium zinc tin oxide (IZTO), etc. In addition, the transparent conductive layer can include a conductive polymer such as PEDOT, a metal nanowire, graphene, etc.

[0135] The multi-layer conductive layer can include a metal layer. The metal layer can include, for example, a three-layer structure of titanium / aluminum / titanium. The multi-layer conductive layer can include at least one metal layer and at least one transparent conductive layer.

[0136] At least any one of the sensing insulating layer 170 and the cover insulating layer 190 can include an inorganic film. The inorganic film can include, for example, at least one of aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, zirconium oxide, and hafnium oxide.

[0137] At least any one of the sensing insulating layer 170 and the cover insulating layer 190 can include an organic film. The organic film can include, for example, at least one of an acrylate-based resin (e.g., a methacrylate-based resin), a polyisoprene-based resin, an ethylene-based resin, an epoxy-based resin, a urethane-based resin, a cellulose-based resin, a siloxane-based resin, a polyimide-based resin, a polyamide-based resin, and a perylene-based resin.

[0138] The optical path control layer (OSL) can be disposed on the input sensor ISL. The OSL can be disposed on the cover insulating layer 190 of the input sensor ISL. For example, the OSL can be directly disposed on the cover insulating layer 190 of the input sensor ISL.

[0139] The optical path control layer (OSL) includes a control pattern (CP). The control pattern (CP) can be set on the input sensor (ISL).

[0140] The control pattern CP includes a polymer matrix and liquid crystal particles dispersed within the polymer matrix. The control pattern CP includes a polymer dispersing liquid crystals. The control pattern CP includes multiple liquid crystal molecules LC and a polymer PM in which the multiple liquid crystal molecules LC are dispersed.

[0141] The polymer PM can be a dispersion medium for dispersing liquid crystal molecules (LC) and can be a curable polymer that can be cured by heat or light. The curable polymer can be any of amorphous, semi-crystalline monomers, and oligomers. The polymer PM can be, for example, a UV-curable polymer.

[0142] For example, polymer PM may include polyurethane acrylate oligomers, 2(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethyl acrylate (EOEOEA), isobornyl acrylate (IOBA), trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA), tri(propylene glycol) diacrylate (TPGDA), pentaerythritol triacrylate (PETA), hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA), trimethylolpropane ethoxylate triacrylate (TMPEOTA), 2-phenoxyethyl acrylate (2-PEA), and methyl methacrylate (MMA). The following are at least one of the following: methacrylate (MA), tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate, tri(propylene glycol)glycerol diacrylate (TRPGGDA), ethylene acrylate (VA), ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDA), epoxy acrylate monomers or oligomers, 1,6-hexanediol diacrylate (HAD), 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (2-HEMA), 2-ethylhexyl acrylate, ethylene glycol diacrylate, trimethylolpropane diallyl ether, carbamate diacrylate, and 2-phenoxyethyl acrylate.

[0143] Multiple liquid crystal molecules (LCs) can be dispersed within a polymer polymer (PM), and each of the multiple LCs can have a spherical shape. In the controlled pattern (CP), the weight ratio of the multiple LCs to the polymer PM can be from approximately 80 to approximately 120% of the weight of the multiple LCs relative to approximately 100% of the weight of the polymer PM. Furthermore, Figure 7 This illustrates multiple liquid crystal molecules (LCs) aligned with a specific orientation, but whether the LCs have an orientation depends on whether the display device (DD) is operating in a first or second mode. See later in the references.Figure 9A and Figure 9B This will be described in more detail in the description of

[0144] The plurality of liquid crystal molecules LC can each include a plurality of liquid crystals. The plurality of liquid crystals can each have a shape of an elongated rod, a stick, or a cylinder. The liquid crystals can have a flow viscosity (mm 2 / s) of about 20 to about 100, a refractive anisotropy of about 0.15 to about 0.30, and a dielectric anisotropy (1.0 kHz) of about +2.0 to about +40.0.

[0145] The optical path control layer OSL can further include a first transparent electrode TE1 and a second transparent electrode TE2. The first transparent electrode TE1 can be disposed under the control pattern CP. The second transparent electrode TE2 can be disposed above the control pattern CP, and thus can be spaced apart from the first transparent electrode TE1, and the control pattern CP is disposed between the second transparent electrode TE2 and the first transparent electrode TE1. For example, the control pattern CP can be in contact with each of the first transparent electrode TE1 and the second transparent electrode TE2.

[0146] The first transparent electrode TE1 and the second transparent electrode TE2 can each include an optically transparent conductive material. The first transparent electrode TE1 and the second transparent electrode TE2 can each include a transparent conductive oxide (TCO). For example, the first transparent electrode TE1 and the second transparent electrode TE2 can each include indium tin oxide (ITO).

[0147] A first power source V1 (see Figure 9A ) capable of applying a driving voltage can be provided to the first transparent electrode TE1 and the second transparent electrode TE2. When the driving voltage is applied to the first transparent electrode TE1 and the second transparent electrode TE2, the plurality of liquid crystal molecules LC included in the control pattern CP can be disposed to have a specific direction. When the driving voltage is not applied to the first transparent electrode TE1 and the second transparent electrode TE2, the plurality of liquid crystal molecules LC can be randomly disposed without a specific direction. This will be described in more detail in the description of Figure 9A and Figure 9B This will be described in more detail in the description of

[0148] The optical path control layer OSL can further include a filling pattern OC1 and an overcoat layer OC2.

[0149] The filling pattern OC1 can be disposed on the input sensor OSL. The filling pattern OC1 can be disposed on the cover insulating layer 190. For example, the filling pattern OC1 can be directly disposed on the cover insulating layer 190.

[0150] The fill pattern OC1 can be provided between two adjacent control patterns CP. The fill pattern OC1 can fill a space between two control patterns CP spaced apart from each other in one direction (e.g., the fourth direction DR4). For example, the fill pattern OC1 can be in contact with a side surface of each of the two control patterns CP spaced apart from each other.

[0151] The fill pattern OC1 can include an optically transparent organic material. At least a portion of the fill pattern OC1 can overlap the first light emitting area PXA-R. The fill pattern OC1 can include a transparent organic material, and thus light provided from the light emitting element ED can pass through the fill pattern OC1.

[0152] The overcoat layer OC2 can be provided on the fill pattern OC1 and the control pattern CP. The overcoat layer OC2 can be provided on the second transparent electrode TE2. The overcoat layer OC2 can cover an upper portion of the fill pattern OC1 and an upper portion of the second transparent electrode TE2. The overcoat layer OC2 can be provided on the fill pattern OC1 and the second transparent electrode TE2. For example, the overcoat layer OC2 can be directly provided on the fill pattern OC1 and the second transparent electrode TE2.

[0153] The overcoat layer OC2 can be provided on the fill pattern OC1, the control pattern CP, and the second transparent electrode TE2, and can protect components provided under the overcoat layer OC2 and remove a step difference to provide a flat upper surface.

[0154] The overcoat layer OC2 can include an optically transparent organic material. The overcoat layer OC2 can include a transparent organic material, and thus light provided from the light emitting element ED can pass through the overcoat layer OC2. The overcoat layer OC2 can include the same material as that of the fill pattern OC1. In addition, the fill pattern OC1 and the overcoat layer OC2 can be formed by separate processes, and thus a visible boundary surface can be formed between the fill pattern OC1 and the overcoat layer OC2.

[0155] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a display device DD according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 8 corresponding to line II-II' shown in Figure 5 is a cross-section. Figure 8 corresponding to adjacent light emitting areas PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B different from each other and a non-light emitting area NPXA around the light emitting areas PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B.

[0156] Referring to Figure 8The base layer 110 can include a single layer structure or a multi-layer structure. For example, the base layer 110 can include a first synthetic resin layer, a multi-layer or single-layer intermediate layer, and a second synthetic resin layer, which are sequentially stacked. The intermediate layer can be referred to as a base barrier layer. The intermediate layer can include, for example, a silicon oxide (SiO x ) layer and an amorphous silicon (a-Si) layer disposed on the silicon oxide layer, but embodiments of the present disclosure are not particularly limited thereto. For example, the intermediate layer can include at least one of a silicon oxide layer, a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, and an amorphous silicon layer.

[0157] The first synthetic resin layer and the second synthetic resin layer can each include a polyimide-based resin. In addition, the first synthetic resin layer and the second synthetic resin layer can each include at least one of, for example, an acrylate-based resin (e.g., a methacrylate-based resin), a polyisoprene-based resin, an ethylene-based resin, an epoxy-based resin, a urethane-based resin, a cellulose-based resin, a siloxane-based resin, a polyamide-based resin, and a perylene-based resin. In the present specification, an "α"-based resin refers to a functional group including "α".

[0158] The circuit layer 120 can be disposed on the base layer 110, and the circuit layer 120 can include a plurality of transistors. The transistors can each include a control electrode, an input electrode, and an output electrode. The circuit layer 120 can include a plurality of transistors that drive the light emitting elements ED1, ED2, and ED3 of the light emitting element layer 130.

[0159] The light emitting element layer 130 can include a pixel definition layer 70 and first, second, and third light emitting elements ED1, ED2, and ED3. A plurality of pixel openings 70-OP in which at least a portion of the first light emitting element ED1, at least a portion of the second light emitting element ED2, and at least a portion of the third light emitting element ED3 are respectively disposed can be defined in the pixel definition layer 70. The pixel definition layer 70 can include an organic light-blocking material or an inorganic light-blocking material including a black pigment or a black dye.

[0160] The display panel DP can be divided into a non-light emitting area NPXA and light emitting areas PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B. The light emitting areas PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B can be areas in which light is respectively generated from the first, second, and third light emitting elements ED1, ED2, and ED3. The light emitting areas PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B can be spaced apart from each other in a plan view.

[0161] The light emitting regions PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B can be regions separated by the pixel defining layer 70. The non-light emitting region NPXA can be a region between the adjacent light emitting regions PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B and corresponding to the pixel defining layer 70. In addition, in the present specification, the light emitting regions PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B can each correspond to the pixel PX (see FIG. 1A). Figure 4 The pixel defining layer 70 can separate the first light emitting element ED1, the second light emitting element ED2, and the third light emitting element ED3 from each other. The first light emitting layer EL1 of the first light emitting element ED1, the second light emitting layer EL2 of the second light emitting element ED2, and the third light emitting layer EL3 of the third light emitting element ED3 can be separated from each other by being disposed in the pixel opening 70-OP provided in the pixel defining layer 70. For example, the light emitting layers EL1, EL2, and EL3 are separated from each other by the pixel defining layer 70.

[0162] The light emitting regions PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B can be divided into a plurality of groups according to the colors of the light generated from the first light emitting element ED1, the second light emitting element ED2, and the third light emitting element ED3. Figure 8 A display panel DP according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown to include three light emitting regions PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B that respectively emit red light, green light, and blue light. For example, a display device DD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can include a red light emitting region PXA-R, a green light emitting region PXA-G, and a blue light emitting region PXA-B that are separated from each other (the red light emitting region PXA-R, the green light emitting region PXA-G, and the blue light emitting region PXA-B are the first light emitting region PXA-R, the second light emitting region PXA-G, and the third light emitting region PXA-B described above, respectively).

[0163] The first light-emitting element ED1, the second light-emitting element ED2, and the third light-emitting element ED3 can be spaced apart from each other in one direction (for example, the second direction DR2 or the fourth direction DR4) perpendicular to the third direction DR3 (that is, the thickness direction). The first light-emitting element ED1, the second light-emitting element ED2, and the third light-emitting element ED3 can emit light in different wavelength regions. For example, the first light-emitting element ED1 can emit red light. Further, the second light-emitting element ED2 can emit green light, and the third light-emitting element ED3 can emit blue light. The red light-emitting region PXA-R, the green light-emitting region PXA-G, and the blue light-emitting region PXA-B can correspond to the first light-emitting element ED1, the second light-emitting element ED2, and the third light-emitting element ED3, respectively. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the first light-emitting element ED1, the second light-emitting element ED2, and the third light-emitting element ED3 can emit light in the same wavelength region, or at least one of the first light-emitting element ED1, the second light-emitting element ED2, and the third light-emitting element ED3 can emit light in a different wavelength region. For example, all of the first light-emitting element ED1, the second light-emitting element ED2, and the third light-emitting element ED3 can emit blue light.

[0164] The light-emitting elements ED1, ED2, and ED3 can each include a first electrode AE, a second electrode CE provided over the first electrode AE, and a light-emitting layer EL1, EL2, or EL3 provided between the first electrode AE and the second electrode CE. The first electrode AE can be exposed through a pixel opening 70-OP of the pixel defining layer 70.

[0165] In addition, each of the light-emitting elements ED1, ED2, and ED3 can further include a hole control layer and an electron control layer. The hole control layer can be provided between the first electrode AE and the light-emitting layer EL1, EL2, and EL3. The electron control layer can be provided between the light-emitting layer EL1, EL2, and EL3 and the second electrode CE. In addition, the hole control layer and the electron control layer can be formed as a common layer by using an opening mask to overlap each of the red light-emitting region PXA-R, the green light-emitting region PXA-G, and the blue light-emitting region PXA-B.

[0166] The first electrode AE can be an anode. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. In addition, the first electrode AE can be a pixel electrode. The first electrode AE can be a transmissive electrode, a transreflective electrode, or a reflective electrode. The first electrode AE can include at least one of, for example, Ag, Mg, Cu, Al, Pt, Pd, Au, Ni, Nd, Ir, Cr, Li, Ca, LiF, Mo, Ti, W, In, Sn, and Zn, a compound selected from at least two thereof, a mixture selected from at least two thereof, and / or an oxide thereof.

[0167] In a case where the first electrode AE is a transmissive electrode, the first electrode AE can include a transparent metal oxide such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), indium tin zinc oxide (ITZO), or the like. In a case where the first electrode AE is a trans-reflective electrode or a reflective electrode, the first electrode AE can include Ag, Mg, Cu, Al, Pt, Pd, Au, Ni, Nd, Ir, Cr, Li, Ca, Mo, Ti, W, or a compound or a mixture thereof (e.g., a mixture of Ag and Mg), or a multi-layer structure material having a multi-layer structure such as LiF / Ca (a stacked structure of LiF and Ca), LiF / Al (a stacked structure of LiF and Al). For example, the first electrode AE can have a multi-layer structure including a reflective film or a trans-reflective film formed of the above-described material and a transparent conductive film formed of indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), indium tin zinc oxide (ITZO), or the like. For example, the first electrode AE can have a three-layer structure of ITO / Ag / ITO, but embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. In addition, the first electrode AE can include the above-described metal material, a combination of at least two metal materials selected from the above-described metal materials, or an oxide of the above-described metal material, and embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0168] The light-emitting layers EL1, EL2, and EL3 can each have a single-layer structure made of a single material, a single-layer structure made of a plurality of different materials, or a multi-layer structure including a plurality of layers made of a plurality of different materials. For example, the light-emitting layers EL1, EL2, and EL3 can include an anthracene derivative, a pyrene derivative, a fluoranthene derivative, a dihydrobenzanthracene derivative, or a triphenylene derivative.

[0169] For example, the light-emitting layers EL1, EL2, and EL3 can each include one host and one dopant. In addition, the light-emitting layers EL1, EL2, and EL3 can each include at least two hosts and two dopants.

[0170] The third light-emitting layer EL3 of the third light-emitting element ED3 that emits blue light can emit thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) or phosphorescence. The third light-emitting layer EL3 of the third light-emitting element ED3 can include a material that emits thermally activated delayed fluorescence and / or a material that emits phosphorescence. The third light-emitting element ED3 including the material that emits thermally activated delayed fluorescence and / or the material that emits phosphorescence can exhibit excellent light-emitting efficiency.

[0171] For example, as a known dopant material, the light-emitting layers EL1, EL2, and EL3 can include styryl derivatives (e.g., 1,4-bis[2-(3-N-ethylcarbazolyl)vinyl]benzene (BCzVB), 4-(di-p-tolylamino)-4'-[(di-p-tolylamino)styryl]stilbene (DPAVB), N-(4-((E)-2-(6-((E)-4-(diphenylamino)styryl)naphthalen-2-yl)vinyl)phenyl)-N-phenylaniline (N-BDAVBi), 4,4'-bis[2-(4-(N,N-diphenylamino)phenyl)vinyl]biphenyl (DPAVBi), perylene and derivatives thereof (e.g., 2,5,8,11-tetra-tert-butylperylene (TBP)), pyrene and derivatives thereof (e.g., 1,1-dipyrene, 1,4-dipyrenylbenzene, 1,4-bis(N,N-diphenylamino)pyrene), and the like.

[0172] For example, the light-emitting layers EL1, EL2, and EL3 can include a known phosphorescent dopant material. For example, for a phosphorescent dopant, a metal complex including iridium (Ir), platinum (Pt), osmium (Os), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), zirconium (Zr), hafnium (Hf), europium (Eu), terbium (Tb), or thulium (Tm) can be used. Specifically, bis(4,6-difluorophenylpyridinato-N,C2')picolinate iridium (III) (FIrpic), bis(2,4-difluorophenylpyridinato)-tetra(1-pyrazolyl)borate iridium (III) (FIr6), or platinum octaethylporphyrin (PtOEP) can be used for a phosphorescent dopant. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0173] The second electrode CE can be a common electrode. The second electrode CE can be a cathode, but embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, the second electrode CE can include at least one of Ag, Mg, Cu, Al, Pt, Pd, Au, Ni, Nd, Ir, Cr, Li, Ca, LiF, Mo, Ti, W, In, Sn, and Zn, a compound selected from at least two thereof, a mixture selected from at least two thereof, and / or an oxide thereof.

[0174] The light-emitting elements ED1, ED2, and ED3 can further include a cap layer disposed on the second electrode CE. The cap layer can be an organic layer or an inorganic layer. For example, when the cap layer includes an inorganic material, the inorganic material can include an alkali metal compound (such as LiF), an alkaline earth metal compound (such as MgF2, SiON, SiN x y ​) and the like. For example, when the cap layer includes an organic material, the organic material can include a-NPD, NPB, TPD, m-MTDATA, Alq3, CuPc, N4,N4,N4',N4'-Tetrakis(3-phenyl-4-yl)phenyl-4,4'-diamine (TPD15), 4,4',4"-tris(9H-carbazol-9-yl)-phenylamine (TCTA), and the like, or can include an epoxy-based resin or an acrylate-based resin such as a methacrylate-based resin.

[0175] The encapsulation layer 140 can be disposed on the light emitting element layer 130. The encapsulation layer 140 can include inorganic layers, organic layers, and inorganic layers stacked on each other in order.

[0176] The input sensor ISL can be disposed on the encapsulation layer 140. For example, the input sensor ISL can be directly disposed on the encapsulation layer 140.

[0177] The optical path control layer OSL can be disposed on the input sensor ISL. The optical path control layer OSL includes a control pattern CP. The control pattern CP is disposed on the input sensor ISL and includes a polymer in which liquid crystals are dispersed. The control pattern CP includes a plurality of liquid crystal molecules LC and a polymer PM in which the plurality of liquid crystal molecules LC are dispersed.

[0178] The control pattern CP can be disposed to correspond to the non-light emitting area NPXA. The control pattern CP can be disposed to overlap the pixel definition layer 70 in a plan view. As Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1, the control pattern CP can overlap the non-light emitting area NPXA and can not overlap the light emitting areas PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B. For example, the control pattern CP can completely overlap the non-light emitting area NPXA. For example, the control pattern CP can not overlap each of the light emitting elements ED1, ED2, and ED3 in a plan view. In addition, the control pattern CP can also not overlap a portion of the non-light emitting area NPXA. In addition, the control pattern CP can also overlap a portion of the light emitting areas PXA-R, PXA-G, and PXA-B.

[0179] The optical path control layer OSL can further include a first transparent electrode TE1 and a second transparent electrode TE2. The first transparent electrode TE1 can be disposed below the control pattern CP. The second transparent electrode TE2 can be disposed above the control pattern CP. For example, the control pattern CP can be in contact with each of the first transparent electrode TE1 and the second transparent electrode TE2.

[0180] The optical path control layer OSL can further include a fill pattern OC1 and an overcoat layer OC2. The fill pattern OC1 can be disposed between adjacent control patterns CP, and thus can fill a space disposed between the control patterns CP spaced apart from each other. The overcoat layer OC2 can be disposed on the fill pattern OC1 and the control pattern CP, and thus can cover an upper portion of the fill pattern OC1 and an upper portion of the second transparent electrode TE2.

[0181] Figure 9A is a cross-sectional view of a display device DD operating in a first mode according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 9B is a cross-sectional view of a display device DD operating in a second mode according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 9A and Figure 9B The traveling directions of the front surface light and the side surface light in the first mode and the second mode are respectively shown on a cross-section corresponding to one light emitting area and a non-light emitting area adjacent to the light emitting area.

[0182] Referring to Figure 7 and Figure 9A The control pattern CP can include a first control pattern CP1 and a second control pattern CP2 spaced apart from each other along one direction (e.g., the fourth direction DR4). The fill pattern OC1 can be disposed between the first control pattern CP1 and the second control pattern CP2. The overcoat layer OC2 can be disposed on the first control pattern CP1, the second control pattern CP2, and the fill pattern OC1.

[0183] The first transparent electrode TE1 can include a 1-1 transparent electrode TE1-1 disposed under the first control pattern CP1 and a 1-2 transparent electrode TE1-2 disposed under the second control pattern CP2. The second transparent electrode TE2 can include a 2-1 transparent electrode TE2-1 disposed over the first control pattern CP1 and a 2-2 transparent electrode TE2-2 disposed over the second control pattern CP2.

[0184] The first control pattern CP1 and the second control pattern CP2 can each include a polymer in which liquid crystals are dispersed. The first control pattern CP1 and the second control pattern CP2 can each include a plurality of liquid crystal molecules LC1 or LC2 and a polymer PM1 or PM2 in which the plurality of liquid crystal molecules LC1 or LC2 are dispersed.

[0185] A first power source V1 can be provided to the first transparent electrode TE1 and the second transparent electrode TE2. Figure 9A Only the first power source V1 connected to the 1-2 transparent electrode TE1-2 and the 2-2 transparent electrode TE2-2 is shown, but the first power source V1 can also be provided to the 1-1 transparent electrode TE1-1 and the 2-1 transparent electrode TE2-1.

[0186] When the display device DD according to the embodiment of the disclosure operates in the first mode, the first switch S1 can be closed so that the first transparent electrode TE1, the second transparent electrode TE2, and the first power source V1 can be electrically connected to form a closed circuit. In the first mode, an electric field can be generated between the first transparent electrode TE1 and the second transparent electrode TE2. In the first mode, since the electric field is formed between the first transparent electrode TE1 and the second transparent electrode TE2, the liquid crystal molecules LC1 and LC2 can be aligned to have a specific direction.

[0187] In a state in which the liquid crystal molecules LC1 and LC2 are aligned to have a specific direction, light traveling to the first control pattern CP1 and light traveling to the second control pattern CP2 can pass through the first control pattern CP1 and the second control pattern CP2, respectively. For example, side surface light L-S traveling to each of the first control pattern CP1 and the second control pattern CP2 from the side surface of the light emitting element ED can pass through the control pattern CP to travel to the upper portion of the display device DD. When the display device DD according to the embodiment of the disclosure operates in the first mode, front surface light L-F and side surface light L-S generated from the light emitting element ED can each travel to the upper portion of the display device DD. Accordingly, in the first mode, the display device DD can operate with a wide viewing angle.

[0188] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 9B When the display device DD according to the embodiment of the disclosure operates in the second mode, the first switch S1 can be opened so that the electrical connection between the first transparent electrode TE1, the second transparent electrode TE2, and the first power source V1 can be disconnected. Accordingly, an open circuit in which the first power source V1 is not supplied to the first transparent electrode TE1 and the second transparent electrode TE2 can be formed. In the second mode, an electric field can not be generated between the first transparent electrode TE1 and the second transparent electrode TE2. In the second mode, since the electric field is not generated between the first transparent electrode TE1 and the second transparent electrode TE2, the liquid crystal molecules LC1' and LC2' can be randomly disposed without a specific direction.

[0189] In a state in which the liquid crystal molecules LC1' and LC2' do not have a specific direction, light traveling to the first control pattern CP1 and light traveling to the second control pattern CP2 can not pass through the first control pattern CP1 and the second control pattern CP2, respectively. For example, side surface light L-S traveling to each of the first control pattern CP1 and the second control pattern CP2 from a side surface of the light emitting element ED can not pass through the control pattern CP and can not travel to an upper portion of the display device DD. The side surface light L-S traveling to each of the first control pattern CP1 and the second control pattern CP2 can be scattered by the liquid crystal molecules LC1' and LC2' randomly disposed without direction, and thus, the side surface light L-S can not pass through the control pattern CP. When the display device DD according to the embodiment of the disclosure operates in the second mode, front surface light L-F generated from the light emitting element ED can travel to the upper portion of the display device DD, but the side surface light L-S can be scattered by each of the first control pattern CP1 and the second control pattern CP2, and thus, the side surface light L-S can not travel to the upper portion of the display device DD. Accordingly, in the second mode, the display device DD can operate in a narrow viewing angle.

[0190] The display device DD according to the embodiment of the disclosure can include the control pattern CP overlapping at least the non-light emitting area NPXA and including a polymer dispersing liquid crystal, and thus can selectively operate in any one mode among a first mode displaying a picture in a wide viewing angle and a second mode displaying a picture in a narrow viewing angle. In addition, even when it switches to a mode having a different viewing mode, the display device DD according to the embodiment of the disclosure can provide an image without degradation of resolution.

[0191] According to a comparative example, a typical display device has a light blocking pattern structure formed to overlap or be adjacent to some pixels (or light emitting elements) to selectively operate in any one mode among a first mode displaying a picture in a first viewing angle and a second mode displaying a picture in a second viewing angle narrower than the first viewing angle. In this case, due to the light blocking pattern, the brightness of the side surface is also reduced in the first mode, and only some pixels (or light emitting elements) operate in each mode, resulting in degradation of resolution of the display device. In the display device DD according to the embodiment of the disclosure, the control pattern CP including a polymer dispersing liquid crystal is provided without a partition structure of the pixels (or light emitting elements) such that, in the first mode displaying a picture in a wide viewing angle, side surface light can pass through the control pattern CP, and in the second mode displaying a picture in a narrow viewing angle, the side surface light can not pass through the control pattern CP and can be scattered. Accordingly, it is possible to provide a display device DD capable of selectively operating in modes having different viewing angles without reducing the brightness of the side surface and resolution.

[0192] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of a display device DD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 10 In Figure 9B the thickness of each layer, the width of each component, and the angle between components, and the like are specifically shown on the cross-section.

[0193] Referring to Figure 7 and Figure 9A to Figure 10 , the combined thickness of the control pattern CP and the first transparent electrode TE1 can have a third thickness T3 in a third direction DR3 that is the thickness direction. In addition, the third thickness T3 can correspond to the distance from the upper surface of the input sensor ISL to the upper surface of the control pattern CP. The filling pattern OC1 can have the third thickness T3. Thus, the upper surface of the filling pattern OC1 and the upper surface of the control pattern CP can provide one flat surface. For example, the upper surface of the filling pattern OC1, the upper surface of the first control pattern CP1, and the upper surface of the second control pattern CP2 can be substantially parallel to each other.

[0194] In the display device DD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a first width W1 that is the width of the light emitting region (in Figure 10 , the first light emitting region PXA is taken as an example) can be substantially the same as a second width W2 that is the distance between the first control pattern CP1 and the second control pattern CP2. For example, the second width W2 that is the distance between the first control pattern CP1 and the second control pattern CP2 can correspond to the first width W1 that is the width of the pixel opening 70-OP provided in the pixel defining layer 70. In addition, in the present specification, the meaning of "substantially the same" includes not only the case where the width or thickness, and the like are physically the same, but also the case where there is a difference within the range of error that can occur during the manufacturing process although the design is the same.

[0195] In the display device DD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the first width W1 and the second width W2 are the same, the third thickness T3 can be defined by the following Equation 1:

[0196] [Equation 1]

[0197] T3 = tan(AG1) / (W1 - (T1 x tan(AG2)) x (T2 x tan(AG3)))

[0198] In addition, as Figure 10As shown in FIG. 1, AG1 in Equation 1 is an angle formed by a normal direction perpendicular to an upper surface of the filling pattern OC1 with respect to a virtual line extending from a left upper end (e.g., a corner) of the light emitting element ED to an end (e.g., a corner) of the first control pattern CP1. AG2 is an angle formed by a normal direction perpendicular to an upper surface of the encapsulation layer 140 with respect to the virtual line. AG3 is an angle formed by a normal direction perpendicular to an upper surface of the input sensor ISL with respect to the virtual line. T1 is a combined thickness of the aforementioned light emitting element layer 130 and the encapsulation layer 140. T2 is a thickness of the input sensor ISL. W1 is a width of the pixel opening 70-OP provided in the pixel defining layer 70.

[0199] In addition, unlike the embodiments shown in Figure 10 , the first width W1 and the second width W2 can be different from each other. In the case where the first width W1 and the second width W2 are different from each other, the third thickness T3 can be defined by Equation 2 below:

[0200] [Equation 2]

[0201] T3 = (tan(AG1) / W2) - ((tan(AG2) + tan(AG3)) / W1)

[0202] The description of Equation 1 applies equally to AG1, AG2, AG3, T1, and T2 in Equation 2.

[0203] In addition, when the thickness T2 of the input sensor ISL is about 0.6 pm, the refractive index of the input sensor ISL is about 1.82, the combined thickness T1 of the light emitting element layer 130 and the encapsulation layer 140 is about 8 pm, the refractive index of the encapsulation layer 140 is about 1.55, the refractive index of the filling pattern OC1 is about 1.55, and the first width W1 and the second width W2 are the same as each other, the third thickness T3 and the first width W1 according to the target viewing angle can have the values listed in Table 1 below. In addition, in Table 1, the “target viewing angle” corresponds to the second viewing angle as previously described, in which the user can not be able to see the image IM at an angle exceeding the corresponding viewing angle when the display device DD is operating in the second mode (see Figure 1A ).

[0204] [Table 1]

[0205]

[0206] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of a display device DD-1 operating in the second mode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 11 is shown a display device DD-1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which is different from the display device DD according to the embodiments shown in Figure 9A and Figure 9B .

[0207] Reference Figure 11 In the optical path control layer OSL included in the display device DD-1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first transparent electrode TE1 and the second transparent electrode TE2 can each include a plurality of sub-electrodes. The first transparent electrode TE1 can include a 1-1 sub-electrode TE1-S1 and a 1-2 sub-electrode TE1-S2 spaced apart from each other in one direction (e.g., the fourth direction DR4). The second transparent electrode TE2 can include a 2-1 sub-electrode TE2-S1 and a 2-2 sub-electrode TE2-S2 spaced apart from each other in the one direction. The 2-1 sub-electrode TE2-S1 can overlap the 1-1 sub-electrode TE1-S1 in a planar view, and the 2-2 sub-electrode TE2-S2 can overlap the 1-2 sub-electrode TE1-S2 in a planar view.

[0208] A separate power source different from each other can be provided to the 1-1 sub-electrode TE1-S1 and the 2-1 sub-electrode TE2-S1 and to the 1-2 sub-electrode TE1-S2 and the 2-2 sub-electrode TE2-S2. A first power source V1 can be provided to the 1-1 sub-electrode TE1-S1 and the 2-1 sub-electrode TE2-S1, and a second power source V2 can be provided to the 1-2 sub-electrode TE1-S2 and the 2-2 sub-electrode TE2-S2. The 1-1 sub-electrode TE1-S1, the 2-1 sub-electrode TE2-S1, and the first power source V1 can form a first circuit, the 1-2 sub-electrode TE1-S2, the 2-2 sub-electrode TE2-S2, and the second power source V2 can form a second circuit, and the first circuit and the second circuit can be separately operated from each other.

[0209] The control pattern CP can include a first portion CP-S1 overlapping the 1-1 sub-electrode TE1-S1 and the 2-1 sub-electrode TE2-S1 and a second portion CP-S2 overlapping the 1-2 sub-electrode TE1-S2 and the 2-2 sub-electrode TE2-S2. The first circuit formed by the 1-1 sub-electrode TE1-S1, the 2-1 sub-electrode TE2-S1, and the first power source V1 can determine whether the first portion CP-S1 is aligned, and the second circuit formed by the 1-2 sub-electrode TE1-S2, the 2-2 sub-electrode TE2-S2, and the second power source V2 can determine whether the second portion CP-S2 is aligned. In addition, the first portion CP-S1 and the second portion CP-S2 can have an integrated shape without being separated. For example, there can be no separate interface between the first portion CP-S1 and the second portion CP-S2.

[0210] Since the first circuit and the second circuit described earlier are separately driven, the display device DD-1 according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A can operate in a first mode, a second mode, and a third mode. Figure 11 The display device DD-1 according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A can operate in a first mode, a second mode, and a third mode.Figure 11 A cross section of the display device DD-1 operating in the second mode is shown.

[0211] When the display device DD-1 according to the embodiment of the disclosure operates in the first mode, both the first switch S1 and the second switch S2 can be in a closed state. Accordingly, the 1-1 sub-electrode TE1-S1, the 2-1 sub-electrode TE2-S1, and the first power source V1 can be electrically connected to each other such that the first circuit can become a closed circuit, and the 1-2 sub-electrode TE1-S2, the 2-2 sub-electrode TE2-S2, and the second power source V2 can be electrically connected to each other such that the second circuit can become a closed circuit. In the first mode, an electric field can be generated between the 1-1 sub-electrode TE1-S1 and the 2-1 sub-electrode TE2-S1 and between the 1-2 sub-electrode TE1-S2 and the 2-2 sub-electrode TE2-S2. In the first mode, an electric field can be formed between the 1-1 sub-electrode TE1-S1 and the 2-1 sub-electrode TE2-S1 and between the 1-2 sub-electrode TE1-S2 and the 2-2 sub-electrode TE2-S2 such that the first liquid crystal molecules LC-S1 of the first portion CP-S1 and the second liquid crystal molecules LC-S2 of the second portion CP-S2 can each be aligned to have a specific direction.

[0212] In a state in which each of the first liquid crystal molecules LC-S1 and the second liquid crystal molecules LC-S2 is aligned to have a specific direction, light traveling to the first portion CP-S1 and light traveling to the second portion CP-S2 can pass through the first portion CP-S1 and the second portion CP-S2, respectively. For example, first side surface light L-S1 traveling to a first side surface of the first portion CP-S1 from the light emitting element ED and second side surface light L-S2 traveling to a second side surface of the second portion CP-S2 from the light emitting element ED can each pass through the control pattern CP to travel to an upper portion of the display device DD-1. When the display device DD-1 according to the embodiment of the disclosure operates in the first mode, front surface light L-F, the first side surface light L-S1, and the second side surface light L-S2 generated from the light emitting element ED can each travel to the upper portion of the display device DD-1. Accordingly, in the first mode, the display device DD-1 can operate with the widest viewing angle.

[0213] When the display device DD-1 according to the embodiment of the disclosure operates in the second mode, the first switch S1 can be in a closed state, and the second switch S2 can be in an open state. Accordingly, the 1-1st sub-electrode TE1-S1, the 2-1st sub-electrode TE2-S1, and the first power source V1 can be electrically connected so that the first circuit becomes a closed circuit, and the 1-2nd sub-electrode TE1-S2, the 2-2nd sub-electrode TE2-S2, and the second power source V2 can be electrically disconnected so that the second circuit can become an open circuit. In the second mode, an electric field can be generated between the 1-1st sub-electrode TE1-S1 and the 2-1st sub-electrode TE2-S1, and an electric field can not be generated between the 1-2nd sub-electrode TE1-S2 and the 2-2nd sub-electrode TE2-S2. In the second mode, since an electric field is formed only between the 1-1st sub-electrode TE1-S1 and the 2-1st sub-electrode TE2-S1, the first liquid crystal molecules LC-S1 of the first portion CP-S1 can be aligned to have a specific direction. Since an electric field is not formed between the 1-2nd sub-electrode TE1-S2 and the 2-2nd sub-electrode TE2-S2, the second liquid crystal molecules LC-S2 of the second portion CP-S2 can be randomly disposed without a specific direction.

[0214] In a state in which the first liquid crystal molecules LC-S1 are aligned to have a specific direction, the first side surface light L-S1 advancing to the first portion CP-S1 can pass through the first portion CP-S1. In a state in which the second liquid crystal molecules LC-S2 do not have a specific direction, the second side surface light L-S2 advancing to the second portion CP-S2 can not pass through the second portion CP-S2. The second side surface light L-S2 advancing to the second portion CP-S2 can be scattered by the second liquid crystal molecules LC-S2 that are randomly disposed without a specific direction, so as not to pass through the control pattern CP. When the display device DD-1 according to the embodiment of the disclosure operates in the second mode, the front surface light L-F and the first side surface light L-S1 generated from the light emitting element ED can advance to the upper portion of the display device DD-1, but the second side surface light L-S2 can be scattered by the second portion CP-S2 of the control pattern CP, so as not to advance to the upper portion of the display device DD-1. Accordingly, in the second mode, the display device DD-1 can operate with a medium viewing angle narrower than the viewing angle of the first mode.

[0215] When the display device DD-1 according to the embodiment of the disclosure is operated in the third mode, the first switch S1 and the second switch S2 can each be in an off state. Accordingly, the 1-1 sub-electrode TE1-S1, the 2-1 sub-electrode TE2-S1, and the first power source V1 can be electrically disconnected from each other, and the 1-2 sub-electrode TE1-S2, the 2-2 sub-electrode TE2-S2, and the second power source V2 can be electrically disconnected from each other, so that the first circuit and the second circuit can each become open. In the third mode, no electric field can be generated between the 1-1 sub-electrode TE1-S1 and the 2-1 sub-electrode TE2-S1 and between the 1-2 sub-electrode TE1-S2 and the 2-2 sub-electrode TE2-S2. In the third mode, since no electric field is formed between the 1-1 sub-electrode TE1-S1 and the 2-1 sub-electrode TE2-S1 and between the 1-2 sub-electrode TE1-S2 and the 2-2 sub-electrode TE2-S2, the first liquid crystal molecules LC-S1 of the first portion CP-S1 and the second liquid crystal molecules LC-S2 of the second portion CP-S2 can each be randomly disposed without a specific direction.

[0216] In a state in which the first liquid crystal molecules LC-S1 do not have a specific direction, the first side surface light L-S1 advancing to the first portion CP-S1 can not pass through the first portion CP-S1. In a state in which the second liquid crystal molecules LC-S2 do not have a specific direction, the second side surface light L-S2 advancing to the second portion CP-S2 can not pass through the second portion CP-S2. The first side surface light L-S1 advancing to the first portion CP-S1 can be scattered by the first liquid crystal molecules LC-S1 that are randomly disposed without a direction, so as not to pass through the control pattern CP. The second side surface light L-S2 advancing to the second portion CP-S2 can be scattered by the second liquid crystal molecules LC-S2 that are randomly disposed without a direction, so as not to pass through the control pattern CP. When the display device DD-1 according to the embodiment of the disclosure is operated in the third mode, the front surface light L-F generated from the light emitting element ED can advance to the upper portion of the display device DD-1, but the first side surface light L-S1 can be scattered by the first portion CP-S1 of the control pattern CP and the second side surface light L-S2 can be scattered by the second portion CP-S2 of the control pattern CP, so as not to advance to the upper portion of the display device DD-1. Accordingly, in the third mode, the display device DD-1 can be operated with the narrowest viewing angle compared to the viewing angles of the first mode and the second mode. The first transparent electrode TE1 and the second transparent electrode TE2 can each include a plurality of sub-electrodes, and can have a first circuit and a second circuit that are separately driven from each other, and thus the display device DD-1 according to the embodiment of the disclosure can selectively be operated in at least three display modes having different viewing angles.

[0217] In addition, Figure 11The first and second transparent electrodes TE1 and TE2 of the display device DD-1 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure can each include two sub-electrodes and thus can have two circuits driven individually, but the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, the first and second transparent electrodes TE1 and TE2 of the display device DD-1 can each include at least three sub-electrodes and can also have at least three circuits.

[0218] Figure 12A is a flowchart of a manufacturing method of a display device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 12B is a flowchart of some steps of a manufacturing method of a display device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0219] Figure 13A to Figure 13E is a cross-sectional view illustrating some steps of a manufacturing method of a display device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. Hereinafter, in referring to Figure 12A to Figure 13E the manufacturing method of the display device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, reference Figure 1A to Figure 11 will be made to the same / similar components described above and repetitive description will be omitted or discussed briefly.

[0220] Referring to Figure 12A , the manufacturing method of the display device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure includes forming a light emitting element layer (step S100) and forming a light path control layer on the light emitting element layer (step S200). Referring to Figure 12B , the step S200 of forming the light path control layer includes forming a first preliminary transparent layer from a conductive material (step S210). The step S200 further includes providing a polymer dispersing liquid crystal to the first preliminary transparent layer to form a preliminary partition layer (step S220) and patterning the first preliminary transparent layer and the preliminary partition layer to form a first transparent electrode and a control pattern (step S230). The step S200 additionally includes providing an organic material onto the control pattern to form a preliminary organic layer (step S240) and polishing the preliminary organic layer to form a fill pattern (step S250). Further, the step S200 includes forming a second transparent electrode on the control pattern from a conductive material (step S260) and forming an overcoat layer covering the second transparent electrode and the fill pattern (step S270).

[0221] Referring to Figure 12B and Figure 13A together, in the manufacturing method of the display device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, the step of forming the light path control layer includes the step S210 of forming a first preliminary transparent layer TE-P from a conductive material and the step S220 of providing a polymer dispersing liquid crystal onto the first preliminary transparent layer TE-P to form a preliminary partition layer CP-P.

[0222] The first preliminary transparent layer TE-P can be formed of an optically transparent conductive material. The first preliminary transparent layer TE-P can be formed of a transparent conductive oxide (TCO). For example, the first preliminary transparent layer TE-P can be formed of indium tin oxide (ITO).

[0223] The preliminary partition layer CP-P is formed on the first preliminary transparent layer TE-P and includes a polymer in which liquid crystals are dispersed. The preliminary partition layer CP-P includes a plurality of liquid crystal molecules LC and a polymer PM in which the plurality of liquid crystal molecules LC are dispersed. The preliminary partition layer CP-P can be formed as a layer by applying a material including a polymer in which liquid crystals are dispersed via a printing process or the like. The preliminary partition layer CP-P can be formed by curing the applied material including the polymer in which liquid crystals are dispersed.

[0224] The polymer PM can be a dispersion medium in which the liquid crystal molecules LC are dispersed in the polymer PM and can be a curable polymer that is hardened by heat or light. The polymer PM can be, for example, an ultraviolet curable polymer. The plurality of liquid crystal molecules LC can be dispersed in the polymer PM, and each of the plurality of liquid crystal molecules LC can have a spherical shape. In the preliminary partition layer CP-P, a ratio of a weight of the plurality of liquid crystal molecules LC to a weight of the polymer PM can be about 80 to about 120 weight of the plurality of liquid crystal molecules LC for about 100 weight of the polymer PM.

[0225] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3 together Figure 12B , Figure 13A and Figure 13B In the manufacturing method of the display device according to the embodiment of the disclosure, the step of forming the optical path control layer includes a step S230 of patterning the first preliminary transparent layer TE-P and the preliminary partition layer CP-P to form the first transparent electrodes TE1-1 and TE1-2 and the control patterns CP1 and CP2.

[0226] The control patterns CP1 and CP2 can be formed by patterning the preliminary partition layer CP-P through a dry etching process. In the process of etching the preliminary partition layer CP-P, a photoresist pattern PRP can be used as a mask. In the process of etching the preliminary partition layer CP-P, the preliminary hard mask HM can also be etched together to form a hard mask HM1.

[0227] The first transparent electrodes TE1-1 and TE1-2 can be formed by patterning the first preliminary transparent layer TE-P through a wet etching process. In the process of etching the first preliminary transparent layer TE-P, the hard mask HM1 can be used as a mask. After the first preliminary transparent layer TE-P is etched to form the first transparent electrodes TE1-1 and TE1-2, the hard mask HM1 can be removed.

[0228] The control patterns CP1 and CP2 can include the first control pattern CP1 and the second control pattern CP2 spaced apart from each other along one direction (e.g., the fourth direction DR4). The first control pattern CP1 and the second control pattern CP2 can be formed to be spaced apart from each other due to a portion of the preliminary separation layer CP-P being removed.

[0229] The first transparent electrodes TE1-1 and TE1-2 can include the first-1 transparent electrode TE1-1 disposed under the first control pattern CP1 and the first-2 transparent electrode TE1-2 disposed under the second control pattern CP2. The first-1 transparent electrode TE1-1 and the first-2 transparent electrode TE1-2 can be formed to be spaced apart from each other due to a portion of the first preliminary transparent layer TE-P being removed.

[0230] Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B together, Figure 12B , Figure 13B and Figure 13C In the method of manufacturing the display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the step of forming the optical path control layer includes a step S240 of providing an organic material onto the control patterns CP1 and CP2 to form a preliminary organic layer OC1-P.

[0231] The preliminary organic layer OC1-P can be formed of an optically transparent organic material. The preliminary organic layer OC1-P can be formed to fill at least a portion of a space between the first control pattern CP1 and the second control pattern CP2. A portion of the preliminary organic layer OC1-P can be formed over each of the first control pattern CP1 and the second control pattern CP2. The preliminary organic layer OC1-P can be formed to be in contact with an upper surface of the input sensor ISL.

[0232] Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B together, Figure 12B , Figure 13C and Figure 13D In the method of manufacturing the display device according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the step of forming the optical path control layer includes a step S250 of polishing the preliminary organic layer OC1-P to form a fill pattern OC1.

[0233] The preliminary organic layer OC1-P can be polished by a chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) process. A portion of the preliminary organic layer OC1-P can be etched by the chemical mechanical polishing process, thereby forming the fill pattern OC1 having a flat upper surface.

[0234] In addition, in a state where the filling pattern OC1 is formed after the polishing step, the upper surface OC1-U of the filling pattern OC1 and the upper surfaces CP1-U and CP2-U of the control patterns CP1 and CP2 can define one flat surface. That is, the upper surface OC1-U of the filling pattern OC1, the upper surface CP1-U of the first control pattern CP1, and the upper surface CP2-U of the second control pattern CP2 can be provided side by side as one flat surface.

[0235] Referring to Figure 12B , Figure 13D and Figure 13E In the manufacturing method of the display device according to the embodiment of the disclosure, the step of forming the optical path control layer includes a step S260 of forming second transparent electrodes TE2-1 and TE2-2 over the control patterns CP1 and CP2 by a conductive material and a step S270 of forming an overcoat layer OC2 covering the second transparent electrodes TE2-1 and TE2-2 and the filling pattern OC1.

[0236] The second transparent electrodes TE2-1 and TE2-2 are formed over the control patterns CP1 and CP2. The second transparent electrodes TE2-1 and TE2-2 can include a 2-1 transparent electrode TE2-1 formed over the first control pattern CP1 and a 2-2 transparent electrode TE2-2 formed over the second control pattern CP2. In addition, after a common layer is formed over the control patterns CP1 and CP2 and the filling pattern OC1 by a conductive material, a portion of the common layer overlapping the filling pattern OC1 can be removed to form the second transparent electrodes TE2-1 and TE2-2 disposed over the control patterns CP1 and CP2.

[0237] The second transparent electrodes TE2-1 and TE2-2 can be formed of an optically transparent conductive material. The second transparent electrodes TE2-1 and TE2-2 can be formed of a transparent conductive oxide (TCO). For example, the second transparent electrodes TE2-1 and TE2-2 can be formed of indium tin oxide (ITO).

[0238] The overcoat layer OC2 can be formed over the filling pattern OC1 and the control patterns CP1 and CP2. The overcoat layer OC2 can be disposed over the second transparent electrodes TE2-1 and TE2-2. The overcoat layer OC2 can cover an upper portion of the filling pattern OC1 and upper portions of the second transparent electrodes TE2-1 and TE2-2. For example, the overcoat layer OC2 can be formed directly over the filling pattern OC1 and the second transparent electrodes TE2-1 and TE2-2.

[0239] The overcoat layer OC2 can be formed on the filling pattern OC1, the control patterns CP1 and CP2, and the second transparent electrodes TE2-1 and TE2-2, and can protect the components disposed under the overcoat layer OC2. In addition, the overcoat layer OC2 can remove the step difference to provide a flat upper surface.

[0240] The overcoat layer OC2 can include an optically transparent organic material. The overcoat layer OC2 can include the same material as that of the filling pattern OC1. In addition, the filling pattern OC1 and the overcoat layer OC2 can be formed by separate processes, and thus a visible boundary surface can be formed between the filling pattern OC1 and the overcoat layer OC2.

[0241] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a display apparatus that operates in a viewing angle-limited mode and in a viewing angle-unlimited mode according to a user's selection or a predetermined rule.

[0242] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a display apparatus that selectively operates in modes having different viewing angles without reducing side surface luminance and resolution.

[0243] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to the embodiments of the present disclosure, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications can be made to the forms and details of the present disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A display device, characterized by comprising: The display device includes: a light emitting element layer including a light emitting region and a non-light emitting region adjacent to the light emitting region; and a light path control layer disposed on the light emitting element layer and configured to control a path of light provided from the light emitting element layer, wherein the light path control layer includes a control pattern overlapping the non-light emitting region and not overlapping the light emitting region, and wherein the control pattern includes a polymer matrix and liquid crystal particles dispersed within the polymer matrix.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The control pattern includes a first control pattern and a second control pattern spaced apart from each other, and the light emitting region is between the first control pattern and the second control pattern.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein The light path control layer further includes: a fill pattern disposed between the first control pattern and the second control pattern; and an overcoat layer disposed on the first control pattern, the second control pattern, and the fill pattern.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein The fill pattern is in contact with each of a side surface of the first control pattern and a side surface of the second control pattern.

5. The display device according to claim 3, wherein An upper surface of the first control pattern, an upper surface of the second control pattern, and an upper surface of the fill pattern are coplanar.

6. The display device according to claim 2, wherein A distance between the first control pattern and the second control pattern is equal to a width of the light emitting region.

7. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The light path control layer further includes a first transparent electrode disposed on the control pattern and a second transparent electrode spaced apart from the first transparent electrode in a thickness direction, and the control pattern is disposed between the second transparent electrode and the first transparent electrode.

8. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The light emitting element layer includes: a pixel definition layer including a pixel opening defining the light emitting region; and a light emitting layer at least partially disposed in the pixel opening and configured to provide the light, wherein the control pattern overlaps the pixel definition layer.

9. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The light emitting region includes a first light emitting region configured to emit light of a first wavelength, a second light emitting region configured to emit light of a second wavelength different from the first wavelength, and a third light emitting region configured to emit light of a third wavelength different from each of the first wavelength and the second wavelength, and The control pattern overlaps each of a portion between the first light emitting region and the second light emitting region and a portion between the second light emitting region and the third light emitting region.

10. A display device, characterized by comprising: The display device includes: a light emitting element layer including a light emitting region and a non-light emitting region at least partially surrounding the light emitting region; and a light path control layer disposed on the light emitting element layer and configured to control a path of light provided from the light emitting element layer, wherein the light path control layer includes: a first transparent electrode disposed on the light emitting element layer; a control pattern disposed on the first transparent electrode, and the control pattern includes a polymer matrix and liquid crystal particles dispersed within the polymer matrix; and a second transparent electrode spaced apart from the first transparent electrode in a thickness direction, and the control pattern is disposed between the second transparent electrode and the first transparent electrode, wherein the first transparent electrode includes a first-1 sub-electrode and a first-2 sub-electrode spaced apart from each other, and The second transparent electrode includes a 2-1 sub-electrode overlapping the 1-1 sub-electrode and a 2-2 sub-electrode overlapping the 1-2 sub-electrode.

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