Display device

Abstract

A display device according to an embodiment includes light emitting elements disposed in an emission region of a sub-pixel, and color filters disposed on the light emitting elements and disposed in the emission region and a non-emission region surrounding the emission region, wherein at least one of the color filters has a convex cross-sectional shape that protrudes higher than a height of an edge portion at a center portion disposed in each emission region, and at least two of the color filters have different cross-sectional shapes.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0087353, filed on July 3, 2024, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] Embodiments of this disclosure relate to display devices and electronic devices including the display devices, and more specifically, to display devices including shaped color filters and electronic devices including the display devices. Background Technology

[0004] With the development of information-based society, there has been a growing demand for display devices capable of displaying images. Accordingly, various types of display devices, such as liquid crystal displays (LCDs), plasma display panels (PDPs), and organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), are being developed. Utility Model Content

[0005] The present disclosure provides a display device capable of improving side brightness ratio and viewing angle, as well as an electronic device including the display device.

[0006] However, the aspects of this disclosure are not limited to those set forth herein. These and other aspects of the disclosure will become more apparent to those skilled in the art upon reference to the detailed description of the disclosure given below.

[0007] According to an aspect of this disclosure, a display device is provided, comprising: a light-emitting element disposed in an emitting region of a sub-pixel; and a color filter disposed on the light-emitting element and overlapping the emitting region and a non-emitting region surrounding the emitting region, wherein a first color filter has a convex cross-sectional shape including an edge portion and a central portion disposed in the emitting region corresponding to the first color filter, the central portion having a height greater than the height of the edge portion, and at least two color filters having different cross-sectional shapes.

[0008] In an embodiment, the second color filter in the color filter may have a concave cross-sectional shape including an edge portion and a central portion disposed in the emission region corresponding to the second color filter, and the central portion of the second color filter has a height lower than the height of the edge portion of the second color filter.

[0009] In an embodiment, the display device may further include: a light-transmitting pattern disposed on a light-emitting element layer including a light-emitting element, and disposed below a first color filter.

[0010] In an embodiment, the first color filter may have a cross-sectional shape corresponding to the light-transmitting pattern, and the central portion of the first color filter may overlap with the light-transmitting pattern.

[0011] In an embodiment, the thickness of the light-transmitting pattern may be different in at least two of the emission regions.

[0012] In an embodiment, the first emission region in the emission region may include a light-transmitting pattern disposed below the first color filter, and the second emission region in the emission region may include a second color filter disposed in an opening of the light-transmitting pattern.

[0013] In an embodiment, the color filter disposed in the emission region corresponding to the opening in the light-transmitting pattern can have a concave cross-sectional shape in which the height of the central portion disposed in each emission region is lower than the height of the edge portion.

[0014] In an embodiment, the emission region may include: a first emission region in which a first light-emitting element emitting light of a first color and a first color filter transmitting light of the first color are disposed; a second emission region in which a second light-emitting element emitting light of a second color and a second color filter transmitting light of the second color are disposed; and a third emission region in which a third light-emitting element emitting light of a third color is disposed.

[0015] In an embodiment, the size of the second transmission region may be smaller than the size of each of the first and third transmission regions.

[0016] In an embodiment, the light-transmitting pattern may be disposed below the second color filter and in the second emission region, and the second color filter may have a convex cross-sectional shape corresponding to the light-transmitting pattern.

[0017] In an embodiment, the light-transmitting pattern may include a first pattern disposed below a first color filter and in a first emission region, and a second pattern disposed below a second color filter and in a second emission region, and the first color filter and the second color filter may each have a convex cross-sectional shape corresponding to the first pattern and the second pattern.

[0018] In an embodiment, the thickness of the first pattern may be less than the thickness of the second pattern.

[0019] In an embodiment, a third color filter may be disposed in a third emission region and transmit light of a third color. The light-transmitting pattern may further include a third pattern disposed below the third color filter in the third emission region, and the third color filter may have a convex cross-sectional shape corresponding to the third pattern.

[0020] In an embodiment, at least two of the first pattern, the second pattern, and the third pattern may have different thicknesses.

[0021] In an embodiment, a third color filter may be disposed in a third emission region and transmit light of a third color, and the light transmission pattern may include an opening in the third emission region, and the third color filter may have a concave cross-sectional shape in which the height of the central portion disposed in the third emission region is lower than the height of the edge portion.

[0022] In an embodiment, the display device may further include a touch sensing layer, including touch electrodes and an insulating layer, and the touch sensing layer may be disposed between a color filter layer including a color filter and a light-emitting element layer.

[0023] In one embodiment, the light-transmitting pattern may be integral with the insulating layer, and the insulating layer may protrude below the first color filter to form the light-transmitting pattern.

[0024] In an embodiment, the first color filter may include: a lower portion, an emitting region disposed in the emitting region and a non-emitting region surrounding the emitting region; and an upper portion disposed on a portion of the lower portion, in the emitting region, and protruding from the lower portion in the height direction.

[0025] In an embodiment, the display device may further include: a light-shielding layer disposed in a non-emission region surrounding the emission region, on a light-emitting element layer including a light-emitting element, and the upper portion of the first color filter may be surrounded by and spaced apart from the light-shielding layer in a plan view.

[0026] According to an aspect of this disclosure, a display device is provided, comprising: a light-emitting element disposed in an emitting region of a sub-pixel; and a color filter disposed on the light-emitting element and overlapping the emitting region and a non-emitting region surrounding the emitting region, wherein a first color filter has a convex cross-sectional shape including a central portion of an island set in the emitting region corresponding to the first color filter and an edge portion surrounding the central portion, the central portion having a sidewall facing the sidewall of the edge portion, and at least two color filters having different cross-sectional shapes.

[0027] According to an aspect of this disclosure, an electronic device is provided, comprising: a display device including: a light-emitting element disposed in an emitting region of a sub-pixel; and a color filter disposed on the light-emitting element and overlapping the emitting region and a non-emitting region surrounding the emitting region, wherein a first color filter may have a convex cross-sectional shape including an edge portion and a central portion disposed in the emitting region corresponding to the first color filter, the central portion having a height greater than the height of the edge portion, and at least two color filters having different cross-sectional shapes.

[0028] According to an embodiment, the color filter of at least one sub-pixel among the sub-pixels forming a pixel can be formed in a convex shape. Accordingly, the side brightness ratio and viewing angle of the pixel, as well as the display device including the pixel, can be improved.

[0029] According to some embodiments, at least two color filters in the sub-pixel color filters can be formed with different cross-sectional shapes. Accordingly, the side color of the pixel and the display device including the pixel can be adjusted or improved.

[0030] However, the effects of the embodiments according to this disclosure are not limited to those illustrated above, and various other effects are included herein. Attached Figure Description

[0031] The above and other aspects and features of this disclosure will become more apparent from the detailed description of embodiments thereof with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0032] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing an electronic device according to an embodiment;

[0033] Figure 2 This is a perspective view illustrating a display device included in an electronic device according to an embodiment;

[0034] Figure 3 It was viewed from the side. Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the display device;

[0035] Figure 4 This is a plan view of the pixels of a display device according to an embodiment;

[0036] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment;

[0037] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view showing a display device according to an embodiment;

[0038] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view showing a display device according to an embodiment;

[0039] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view showing a display device according to an embodiment;

[0040] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment;

[0041] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view showing a display device according to an embodiment;

[0042] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view showing a display device according to an embodiment;

[0043] Figure 12 This is a plan view of the pixels of a display device according to an embodiment;

[0044] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view showing a display device according to an embodiment; and

[0045] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The present invention will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated. However, aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented in various forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the present invention to those skilled in the art.

[0047] It will also be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on" another element or layer, it can be directly on the other element or layer, or an intervening layer may be present. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals denote the same parts. In the accompanying figures, the thickness of layers and areas may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0048] It will be understood that although the terms "first," "second," etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the teachings of this utility model, the first element discussed below may be referred to as the second element. Similarly, the second element may also be referred to as the first element.

[0049] Features of each of the various embodiments of this disclosure may be combined with each other in part or in whole and may cooperate with each other in various ways technically, and the various embodiments may be implemented independently of each other or implemented together in association with each other.

[0050] Various aspects of this disclosure can provide a display device capable of improving side brightness ratio and viewing angle, as well as an electronic device including the display device. Various aspects of this disclosure can provide a pixel including color filters arranged on various light-emitting elements, and the color filters can have a cross-sectional shape configured to increase side light emitted from the emitting region, reduce the difference between front brightness and side brightness, and increase the viewing angle of the pixel. For example, the color filter transmission length of at least a portion of the side light can be reduced or minimized in the pixel. Accordingly, the difference between the color filter transmission length of front light and the color filter transmission length of side light can be reduced, and the side brightness ratio can be improved (e.g., increased).

[0051] Figure 1This is a perspective view showing an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0052] refer to Figure 1 Electronic device 1 is configured to display moving or still images. Electronic device 1 can refer to any electronic device that provides a display screen. Examples of electronic device 1 may include televisions, laptops, monitors, billboards, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, mobile phones, smartphones, tablet PCs, electronic watches, smartwatches, watch phones, head-mounted displays, mobile communication terminals, electronic notebooks, e-books, portable multimedia players (PMPs), navigation devices, game consoles, digital cameras, or portable video cameras, etc.

[0053] Electronic device 1 may include a display device that provides a display screen (e.g., Figure 2 The display device 10). In the embodiment, the display device may be a light-emitting display device including light-emitting elements such as inorganic light-emitting diodes or organic light-emitting diodes, but is not limited thereto. Although a light-emitting display device including organic light-emitting diodes is described as a display device to which the embodiment can be applied, the apparatus or field to which the embodiment can be applied is not limited thereto. For example, the embodiment can also be applied to other types of display devices.

[0054] The shape of the electronic device 1 can be provided in various ways. For example, the electronic device 1 can have a shape such as a rectangular shape extending in the horizontal direction, a rectangular shape extending in the vertical direction, a square shape, a substantially quadrilateral shape with rounded corners, other polygonal shapes, or a circular shape. In embodiments, the shape of the display area DA of the electronic device 1 can be similar to, but is not limited to, the overall shape of the electronic device 1. Figure 1 The example illustrates an electronic device 1 having a rectangular shape that is longer in the second direction DR2 than in the first direction DR1.

[0055] Electronic device 1 may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA. The display area DA may be an area capable of displaying an image, and the non-display area NDA may be an area where no image is displayed. The display area DA may also be referred to as the active area, and the non-display area NDA may also be referred to as the inactive area. The display area DA may substantially occupy the center of electronic device 1.

[0056] The display area DA may include a first display area DA1, a second display area DA2, and a third display area DA3. The second display area DA2 and the third display area DA3 may be areas where components for adding various functions to the electronic device 1 are disposed, and the second display area DA2 and the third display area DA3 may correspond to the component areas. Although Figure 1An embodiment in which the electronic device 1 includes two component regions is shown, but the number or location of the component regions is not limited. The first display region DA1 may be an area of ​​the display region DA that is not equipped with components.

[0057] Figure 2 This is a perspective view illustrating a display device included in an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0058] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The electronic device 1 according to the embodiment may include a display device 10. The display device 10 may provide a screen for the electronic device 1. The display device 10 may have a planar shape similar to the shape of the electronic device 1. For example, the display device 10 may have a shape similar to a rectangle, which has a short side in a first direction DR1 and a long side in a second direction DR2. The edge where the short side in the first direction DR1 and the long side in the second direction DR2 intersect may be rounded, but is not limited thereto and may be formed at a right angle. The planar shape of the display device 10 is not limited to a quadrilateral shape, and may have another polygonal shape, a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or another shape.

[0059] The display device 10 may include a display panel 100, a display driver 200, a circuit board 300, and a touch driver 400.

[0060] Display panel 100 may include a primary area MA and a secondary area SBA.

[0061] The main region MA may include a display area DA and a non-display area NDA. The display area DA includes pixels PX configured to display an image, and the non-display area NDA is disposed around at least a portion of the display area DA. The display area DA may be located in the central portion of the main region MA, and the non-display area NDA may surround the display area DA.

[0062] The display area DA may include a first display area DA1, a second display area DA2, and a third display area DA3. The display area DA may include the emission area of ​​the pixel PX, and light can be emitted from the emission area.

[0063] Each pixel PX may include multiple sub-pixels that emit light. For example, each pixel PX may include multiple sub-pixels that emit light of different colors. Each sub-pixel may include a light-emitting element disposed in each emission region.

[0064] The display panel 100 may include light-emitting elements and pixel circuitry (e.g., pixel circuitry including transistors and capacitors) for each pixel PX, as well as a pixel defining film surrounding the emitting region of the pixel PX. The light-emitting elements for each pixel PX may be disposed in the emitting region of the corresponding pixel PX. In embodiments, each light-emitting element may include, but is not limited to, an organic light-emitting diode (LED) containing an organic light-emitting layer, a quantum dot LED containing a quantum dot light-emitting layer, an inorganic LED containing inorganic semiconductors, and an ultra-small light-emitting diode such as a micro LED or a nano LED.

[0065] The non-display area NDA can be an area outside the display area DA. The non-display area NDA can be an edge region of the main area MA of the display panel 100. In an embodiment, the non-display area NDA may include a gate driver that supplies gate signals to the gate lines and a fan-out line that connects the display driver 200 to the display area DA.

[0066] A sub-area SBA can be a region extending from one side of a main area MA. A sub-area SBA can include a flexible material that can be bent, folded, or rolled. For example, when a sub-area SBA is bent (or folded), it can overlap with the main area MA in the thickness direction (e.g., third direction DR3). For example, when the display device 10 is bent in a sub-area SBA, at least a portion of the sub-area SBA, including the area where the display driver 200 is disposed and the area where the pads connecting to the circuit board 300 are disposed, can be disposed below the main area MA.

[0067] The sub-area SBA may include a display driver 200 and pad portions connected to the circuit board 300. In another embodiment, the sub-area SBA may be omitted, and the display driver 200 and pad portions may be located in the non-display area NDA. In another embodiment, the display driver 200 may be located on the circuit board 300 connected to the display panel 100 and may be electrically connected to the display panel 100 via the pad portions.

[0068] The display driver 200 can output drive signals and drive voltages for driving the display panel 100. For example, the display driver 200 can supply data voltages to data lines, drive voltages (e.g., first pixel voltage (or anode voltage) and second pixel voltage (or cathode voltage)) to power lines, and gate control signals to gate drivers. In embodiments, the display driver 200 can be formed as an integrated circuit (IC) and mounted on the display panel 100 by a chip-on-glass (COG) method, a chip-on-plastic (COP) method, or an ultrasonic bonding method.

[0069] The circuit board 300 can be attached to the pad portion of the display panel 100 using an anisotropic conductive film (ACF) or similar material. The leads of the circuit board 300 can be electrically connected to the pad portion of the display panel 100. In embodiments, the circuit board 300 can be a flexible printed circuit board, a printed circuit board, or a flexible film such as a chip-on-film.

[0070] Touch driver 400 can be mounted on circuit board 300. Touch driver 400 can be connected to touch sensing layer of display panel 100. Touch driver 400 can supply each touch drive signal to touch electrodes of touch sensing layer and can sense the amount of capacitance change formed between touch electrodes. In an embodiment, touch drive signal can be pulse signal with a predetermined frequency. Touch driver 400 can detect whether touch input has occurred and detect coordinates based on the amount of capacitance change between touch electrodes. In an embodiment, touch driver 400 can be formed as integrated circuit (IC).

[0071] Figure 3 It was viewed from the side. Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the display device. Figure 3 Illustration Figure 2 The sub-area SBA of the display panel 100 in the display device 10, which is in a bent state.

[0072] refer to Figure 3 The display panel 100 may include a display layer DU, a touch sensing layer TSU, and a color filter layer CFL.

[0073] The display layer DU may include a substrate SUB, a thin film transistor layer (TFTL), a light-emitting element layer (EML), and a packaging layer (TFEL).

[0074] The substrate SUB can be a base substrate or a base member. The substrate SUB can be a flexible substrate capable of being bent, folded, or rolled, but is not limited thereto. In one embodiment, the substrate SUB may include a polymer resin such as polyimide (PI). In another embodiment, the substrate SUB may include a glass material or a metal material.

[0075] A thin-film transistor layer (TFTL) can be disposed on a substrate SUB. The TFTL may include circuit elements (e.g., thin-film transistors and capacitors) constituting the pixel circuitry of a pixel PX. The TFTL may further include wiring. For example, the TFTL may further include gate lines, data lines, power lines, gate control lines, fan-out lines connecting the display driver 200 to the data lines, and leads connecting the display driver 200 to the pad portion. Each of the thin-film transistors may include a semiconductor region, a source electrode, a drain electrode, and a gate electrode. In an embodiment, when the display panel 100 includes a gate driver disposed in a non-display area NDA, the TFTL may further include circuit elements constituting the gate driver.

[0076] The thin-film transistor layer (TFTL) can be disposed in the display area (DA), the non-display area (NDA), and the sub-area (SBA). The circuit elements constituting the pixel circuit of a pixel (PX), as well as the gate lines, data lines, and power lines electrically connected to the pixel PX, can be disposed in the display area (DA) of the TFTL. The gate lines, data lines, and power lines can extend to the non-display area (NDA) of the TFTL and can be electrically connected to the gate driver, display driver 200, or pad portion, respectively. Gate control lines and fan-out lines can be disposed in the non-display area (NDA) of the TFTL. Leads can be disposed in the sub-area (SBA) of the TFTL.

[0077] The light-emitting element layer (EML) can be disposed on the thin-film transistor layer (TFTL). The EML may include a pixel defining film defining the emission region (or light-emitting element arrangement region) of a pixel PX and light-emitting elements disposed in the emission region. In an embodiment, the pixel region of each pixel PX that sets the display region DA may include a plurality of emission regions in which light-emitting elements forming sub-pixels of the corresponding pixel PX are disposed.

[0078] The light-emitting element may include a first electrode and a second electrode facing each other, and a light-emitting layer between the first electrode and the second electrode. In an embodiment, the first electrode of the light-emitting element may be... Figure 5 Corresponding to the pixel electrodes shown in the following figures, and the second electrode of the light-emitting element may be associated with... Figure 5Corresponding to the common electrode shown in the following figures. In embodiments, the light-emitting element may be an organic light-emitting diode including an organic light-emitting layer, but is not limited thereto. For example, the light-emitting element may be another type of light-emitting element such as a quantum dot light-emitting diode including a quantum dot light-emitting layer, an inorganic light-emitting diode including inorganic semiconductors, a micro light-emitting diode, or a nano light-emitting diode. When a first pixel voltage (e.g., anode voltage) is applied to the first electrode of the light-emitting element through at least one of the thin-film transistors in each pixel circuit, and a second pixel voltage (e.g., cathode voltage) is applied to the second electrode of the light-emitting element through a power line, holes and electrons can recombine in the light-emitting layer and the light-emitting element can emit light.

[0079] A TFEL encapsulation layer can be disposed on the EML (Emitting Microstructure Layer). For example, the TFEL can cover the top and side surfaces of the EML and protect it. In embodiments, the TFEL can include at least one inorganic film and at least one organic film for encapsulating the EML. For example, the TFEL can include multiple inorganic encapsulation layers and an organic encapsulation layer between the inorganic encapsulation layers.

[0080] The touch sensing layer TSU can be disposed on the display layer DU. For example, the touch sensing layer TSU can be disposed on or formed on the encapsulation layer TFEL, or the touch sensing layer TSU can be disposed on a separate substrate disposed on the display layer DU.

[0081] The touch sensing layer (TSU) may include touch electrodes for sensing user touch input and wiring that electrically connects the touch electrodes to the touch driver 400. In embodiments, the touch sensing layer (TSU) may sense user touches using mutual capacitance or self-capacitance, and the touch electrodes may have shapes suitable for constituting mutual capacitance or self-capacitance touch sensors. For example, the touch electrodes may include driving electrodes and sensing electrodes extending and / or connected in different directions to constitute a mutual capacitance touch sensor, or they may include touch electrodes disposed at points corresponding to individual touch nodes or coordinates to constitute a self-capacitance touch sensor.

[0082] The touch electrodes of the touch sensing layer TSU can be located in the touch sensor area overlapping the display area DA. The area in the display area DA where the touch electrodes are located can be the touch sensor area. For example, the touch sensor area can be all or part of the display area DA. Wiring electrically connected to the touch electrodes of the touch sensing layer TSU can be located in the peripheral area overlapping the non-display area NDA.

[0083] A color filter layer (CFL) can be disposed on the touch sensing layer (TSU). The CFL can include color filters arranged in the respective emission regions of the pixel PX. For example, the CFL can include color filters of different colors arranged on the light-emitting elements forming the sub-pixels of each pixel PX and selectively transmitting light of a color or wavelength corresponding to each sub-pixel. Each of the color filters can selectively transmit light of a specific color or wavelength and can block or absorb light of different colors or wavelengths.

[0084] In an embodiment, the color filter layer CFL may further include a light-shielding layer. The light-shielding layer may be disposed in a non-emissive region surrounding the emitting region of the pixel PX. The light-shielding layer can be formed separately from the color filters using a separate light-shielding material, or it can be formed by overlapping with multiple color filters that selectively transmit light of different wavelengths.

[0085] The color filter layer (CFL) can absorb a portion of the light from outside the display device 10 to reduce reflected light caused by external light. Color distortion caused by the reflection of external light can be suppressed or prevented by the color filter layer (CFL).

[0086] In this embodiment, the color filter layer CFL can be directly disposed on the touch sensing layer TSU (or display layer DU). Accordingly, the display device 10 may not include a separate substrate for the color filter layer CFL and may have a further reduced thickness.

[0087] In some embodiments, the display device 10 may further include components disposed in the component region (e.g., Figure 1 and Figure 2 The optical device 500 is located in the second display area DA2 or the third display area DA3. The optical device 500 can emit or receive light in the infrared, ultraviolet and visible light bands. For example, the optical device 500 can be an optical sensor that detects light incident on the display device 10, such as a proximity sensor, an illuminance sensor, and a camera sensor or image sensor.

[0088] Figure 4 This is a plan view illustrating the pixels of a display device according to an embodiment. For example, Figure 4 The diagram shows the approximate shape or location of the emission region EA of a pixel PX according to an embodiment, as well as the light-emitting element ED and color filter CF arranged in the emission region EA.

[0089] refer to Figure 4A pixel PX may include sub-pixels SPX that contain various emission regions EA. For example, a pixel PX may include a first sub-pixel SPX1 containing a first emission region EA1 that emits light of a first color, a second sub-pixel SPX2 containing a second emission region EA2 that emits light of a second color, and a third sub-pixel SPX3 containing a third emission region EA3 that emits light of a third color. In an embodiment, each pixel PX may include one first sub-pixel SPX1, one second sub-pixel SPX2, and one third sub-pixel SPX3, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, a pixel PX according to another embodiment may include one first sub-pixel SPX1, two second sub-pixels SPX2, and one third sub-pixel SPX3. In addition, the type, number, ratio, and / or combination of the sub-pixels SPX constituting the pixel PX may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0090] In this embodiment, the first sub-pixel SPX1, the second sub-pixel SPX2, and the third sub-pixel SPX3 can be a red sub-pixel emitting red light, a green sub-pixel emitting green light, and a blue sub-pixel emitting blue light, respectively. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and the color or wavelength of the light emitted from each sub-pixel SPX can vary depending on the embodiment.

[0091] Figure 4 The illustration shows an embodiment where each pixel PX includes a first sub-pixel SPX1, a second sub-pixel SPX2, and a third sub-pixel SPX3, and the first sub-pixel SPX1, second sub-pixel SPX2, and third sub-pixel SPX3 are arranged in a substantially inverted triangular shape in a plan view. For example, the first sub-pixel SPX1 and the second sub-pixel SPX2 may be adjacent in a fifth direction DR5, which is inclined relative to the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2; the second sub-pixel SPX2 and the third sub-pixel SPX3 may be adjacent in a fourth direction DR4, which is between the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2; and the first sub-pixel SPX1 and the third sub-pixel SPX3 may be substantially adjacent in the first direction DR1. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and the arrangement pattern of the sub-pixels SPX and the pixels PX including the sub-pixels SPX can be modified in various ways according to the embodiment.

[0092] Each sub-pixel SPX may include a light-emitting element ED disposed in each emission region EA. For example, the first sub-pixel SPX1 may include a first light-emitting element ED1 disposed in the first emission region EA1, the second sub-pixel SPX2 may include a second light-emitting element ED2 disposed in the second emission region EA2, and the third sub-pixel SPX3 may include a third light-emitting element ED3 disposed in the third emission region EA3. The light-emitting elements ED may be arranged in... Figure 3 In the display layer DU. For example, the light-emitting element ED can be set in Figure 3In the light-emitting element layer EML.

[0093] In an embodiment, each sub-pixel SPX may further include a pixel circuit electrically connected to each light-emitting element ED and controlling the driving of the light-emitting element ED. For example, the first sub-pixel SPX1 may include a first light-emitting element ED1 and a first pixel circuit electrically connected to the first light-emitting element ED1, the second sub-pixel SPX2 may include a second light-emitting element ED2 and a second pixel circuit electrically connected to the second light-emitting element ED2, and the third sub-pixel SPX3 may include a third light-emitting element ED3 and a third pixel circuit electrically connected to the third light-emitting element ED3.

[0094] In this embodiment, the first light-emitting element ED1, the second light-emitting element ED2, and the third light-emitting element ED3 can emit light of a first color, a second color, and a third color, respectively. For example, the first light-emitting element ED1, the second light-emitting element ED2, and the third light-emitting element ED3 can be light-emitting elements of different colors, emitting red light, green light, and blue light, respectively. However, the embodiments are not limited to this. For example, in another embodiment, the first light-emitting element ED1, the second light-emitting element ED2, and the third light-emitting element ED3 can emit light of the same color, and a light conversion layer for converting the color or wavelength of light can be disposed on at least one of the first light-emitting elements ED1, the second light-emitting element ED2, and the third light-emitting element ED3 to change or control the color of light emitted from each sub-pixel SPX. For example, the light conversion layer can include a quantum dot layer that converts light emitted from the light-emitting element ED (e.g., blue light) into light of different colors.

[0095] exist Figure 4 In this design, the light-transmitting region where each light-emitting element (ED) is disposed and emits light generated from the ED can be defined as the emission region EA of each sub-pixel SPX. For example, the emission region EA of each sub-pixel SPX may include the light-emitting element region on the pixel electrode exposed by the opening of the pixel-defining film of each sub-pixel SPX, where the light-emitting layer of the ED is disposed. Further, the emission region EA of each sub-pixel SPX, which is the region surrounded by a light-shielding layer disposed on the light-emitting element layer including the ED, may be the region corresponding to each opening of the light-shielding layer.

[0096] In embodiments, the sizes (e.g., emission areas) of the first emission region EA1, the second emission region EA2, and the third emission region EA3 can be different from each other. For example, the size of the first emission region EA1 can be larger than the size of the second emission region EA2, and smaller than the size of the third emission region EA3. In embodiments, the first light-emitting element ED1, the second light-emitting element ED2, and the third light-emitting element ED3 can have sizes (e.g., areas) corresponding to the sizes of the first emission region EA1, the second emission region EA2, and the third emission region EA3, respectively. For example, the size of the first light-emitting element ED1 can be larger than the size of the second light-emitting element ED2, and smaller than the size of the third light-emitting element ED3. Depending on the size of each light-emitting element ED and the size of the emission region EA including the light-emitting element ED, the intensity or brightness of the light emitted from each emission region EA can vary.

[0097] exist Figure 4 In this diagram, the position or size of each sub-pixel SPX is shown relative to each emission region EA, but the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the position or size of the pixel circuit regions where the pixel circuits arranging the sub-pixels SPX can be substantially the same.

[0098] By controlling the size or ratio of the light-emitting element ED included in the pixel PX and the emitting region EA including the light-emitting element ED, the color of the light emitted from the pixel PX can be controlled, and the color of the screen displayed on the display device 10 can be controlled. Furthermore, considering factors such as the lifespan of the light-emitting element ED, the sizes of the light-emitting element ED and the emitting region EA can be appropriately adjusted. For example, the sizes of the light-emitting element ED and the emitting region EA can be related to the luminous efficiency or lifespan of the light-emitting element ED, which can be a trade-off with the reflection of external light. Taking into account factors including luminous efficiency, device lifespan, and reflection, the sizes of the light-emitting element ED and the emitting region EA can be appropriately adjusted.

[0099] The non-emissive area of ​​the display area DA, excluding the emitting area EA of the sub-pixel SPX, can correspond to a light-shielding area. For example, the display area DA may include the emitting area EA of the pixel PX and a non-emissive area surrounding the emitting area EA. For example, the non-emissive area surrounding each of the emitting areas EA and the peripheral area between the emitting areas EA can be an area blocked by a light-shielding layer. Each pixel PX may include the emitting area EA and a non-emissive area surrounding the emitting area EA, and each emitting area EA may be surrounded by a portion of the non-emissive area.

[0100] Each color filter CF can be set in the emission region EA of the sub-pixel SPX. For example, the first color filter CF1, the second color filter CF2, and the third color filter CF3 can be arranged in the first emission region EA1, the second emission region EA2, and the third emission region EA3, respectively.

[0101] In embodiments, each color filter CF may be further disposed in a non-emission region surrounding each emission region EA. For example, each color filter CF may include a central portion disposed in each emission region EA and an edge portion disposed around the emission region EA. For example, the edge portion of each color filter CF may be a portion overlapping with a non-emission region NEA. For example, a first color filter CF1 may include a central portion disposed in the first emission region EA1 and an edge portion disposed in the non-emission region NEA directly surrounding and around the first emission region EA1. Similarly, a second color filter CF2 may include a central portion disposed in the second emission region EA2 and an edge portion disposed in the non-emission region NEA directly surrounding and around the second emission region EA2, and a third color filter CF3 may include a central portion disposed in the third emission region EA3 and an edge portion disposed in the non-emission region NEA directly surrounding and around the third emission region EA3.

[0102] In an embodiment, each color filter CF may overlap with at least one neighboring color filter CF in a non-emission region. For example, each color filter CF may overlap with at least one color filter CF located in the emission region EA of a neighboring pixel PX or a neighboring sub-pixel SPX. Although Figure 4 The illustration shows an embodiment in which color filters CF arranged in a pixel PX overlap each other in the non-emissive region of the corresponding pixel, but color filters CF can also overlap with color filters CF of neighboring pixels PX.

[0103] further, Figure 4The illustration shows an embodiment in which color filters CF are formed as separate patterns corresponding to each emission region EA, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, in another embodiment, a first color filter CF1 may be disposed in the entire non-emission region and the first emission region EA1 and may include openings corresponding to the second emission region EA2 and the third emission region EA3. Similarly, a second color filter CF2 may be disposed in the entire non-emission region and the second emission region EA2 and may include openings corresponding to the first emission region EA1 and the third emission region EA3, and a third color filter CF3 may be disposed in the entire non-emission region and the third emission region EA3 and may include openings corresponding to the first emission region EA1 and the second emission region EA2. For example, the color filters CF may be formed as separate patterns corresponding to each emission region EA, or they may all be formed in the display region DA.

[0104] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display device according to an embodiment. For example, Figure 5 The display device 10 is shown along the Figure 4 The portion corresponding to the cross section of pixel PX intercepted by line X1-X1'. As an example, Figure 5 Display panel 100 and settings are shown Figure 4 The pixel region PXA is a portion of the pixel area corresponding to pixel PX.

[0105] refer to Figures 1 to 5 The display device 10 according to an embodiment may include a display layer DU, a touch sensing layer TSU, and a color filter layer CFL. The display layer DU may include a substrate SUB, a thin film transistor layer TFTL, a light-emitting element layer EML, and a packaging layer TFEL. The touch sensing layer TSU may include a touch electrode TL and a bridging pattern TBR. The color filter layer CFL may include a light-shielding layer BM and a color filter CF.

[0106] The substrate SUB can be a base substrate or a base member. In the embodiments, the substrate SUB can be a flexible substrate that can be bent, folded or rolled, but is not limited thereto.

[0107] A thin-film transistor layer (TFTL) may include a first buffer layer (BF1), a lower metal layer (BML), a second buffer layer (BF2), a thin-film transistor (TFT), a gate insulating layer (GI), a first interlayer insulating layer (ILD1), a capacitor electrode (CPE), a second interlayer insulating layer (ILD2), a first connection electrode (CNE1), a first passivation layer (PAS1), a second connection electrode (CNE2), and a second passivation layer (PAS2). However, embodiments are not limited to this, and the number or type of conductive and insulating layers forming the TFTL and / or the structure or type of the thin-film transistor (TFT) may vary.

[0108] The first buffer layer BF1 may be disposed on the substrate SUB. In an embodiment, the first buffer layer BF1 may include an inorganic membrane capable of inhibiting or preventing the penetration of air or moisture.

[0109] The lower metal layer BML can be disposed on the first buffer layer BF1. In embodiments, the lower metal layer BML can be formed as a single layer or multiple layers made of any one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu) or their alloys.

[0110] The second buffer layer BF2 may cover the first buffer layer BF1 and the lower metal layer BML. In an embodiment, the second buffer layer BF2 may include an inorganic membrane capable of inhibiting or preventing the penetration of air or moisture.

[0111] Thin-film transistors (TFTs) can be disposed on the second buffer layer BF2. TFTs can be disposed at each location in the pixel circuitry (e.g., the pixel circuitry of the sub-pixel SPX) included in each pixel PX. Figure 5 The general shape of an example thin-film transistor TFT (e.g., a thin-film transistor TFT electrically connected to a first light-emitting element ED1, a second light-emitting element ED2, or a third light-emitting element ED3) that can be provided in the pixel circuit of each sub-pixel SPX is shown. Figure 5 Each thin-film transistor (TFT) shown can be a switching transistor or a driving transistor constituting each pixel circuit. A TFT may include a semiconductor layer ACT, a source electrode SE, a drain electrode DE, and a gate electrode GE.

[0112] The semiconductor layer ACT can be disposed on the second buffer layer BF2. The semiconductor layer ACT can overlap with the lower metal layer BML and the gate electrode GE in the thickness direction, and can be insulated from the gate electrode GE by the gate insulating layer GI. A portion of the semiconductor layer ACT can be conductive and can form the source electrode SE (or source region) and the drain electrode DE (or drain region). For example, a portion of the semiconductor layer ACT can be doped to form the source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE.

[0113] The gate electrode GE can be disposed on the gate insulating layer GI. The gate electrode GE can overlap with the semiconductor layer ACT, while the gate insulating layer GI is located between the gate electrode GE and the semiconductor layer ACT.

[0114] The gate insulating layer GI can be disposed on the semiconductor layer ACT. For example, the gate insulating layer GI can cover the semiconductor layer ACT and the second buffer layer BF2, and can be disposed between the semiconductor layer ACT and the gate electrode GE. The gate insulating layer GI may include a contact hole through which the first connection electrode CNE1 passes.

[0115] The first interlayer insulating layer ILD1 may cover the gate electrode GE and the gate insulating layer GI. The first interlayer insulating layer ILD1 may include a contact hole through which the first connection electrode CNE1 passes. The contact hole of the first interlayer insulating layer ILD1 may overlap with the contact hole of the gate insulating layer GI and the contact hole of the second interlayer insulating layer ILD2 in the thickness direction.

[0116] The capacitor electrode CPE can be disposed on the first interlayer insulating layer ILD1. The capacitor electrode CPE can overlap with the gate electrode GE in the thickness direction. The capacitor electrode CPE and the gate electrode GE can form a capacitor. For example, the storage capacitor of each pixel circuit can be formed by the capacitor electrode CPE and the gate electrode GE.

[0117] The second interlayer insulating layer ILD2 may cover the capacitor electrode CPE and the first interlayer insulating layer ILD1. The second interlayer insulating layer ILD2 may include a contact hole through which the first connecting electrode CNE1 passes. The contact hole of the second interlayer insulating layer ILD2 may connect to the contact hole of the first interlayer insulating layer ILD1 and the contact hole of the gate insulating layer GI.

[0118] The upper part of the first connection electrode CNE1 can be disposed on the second interlayer insulating layer ILD2. The first connection electrode CNE1 can electrically connect the drain electrode DE of the thin-film transistor TFT to the second connection electrode CNE2. When the type of the thin-film transistor TFT and / or the structure of the pixel circuit is changed, the first connection electrode CNE1 can electrically connect the source electrode SE of the thin-film transistor TFT to the second connection electrode CNE2. The first connection electrode CNE1 can contact and / or connect to the drain electrode DE of the thin-film transistor TFT through contact holes formed in the second interlayer insulating layer ILD2, the first interlayer insulating layer ILD1, and the gate insulating layer GI.

[0119] The first passivation layer PAS1 can cover the first connection electrode CNE1 and the second interlayer insulating layer ILD2. The first passivation layer PAS1 can protect the thin-film transistor (TFT). The first passivation layer PAS1 can include a contact hole through which the second connection electrode CNE2 passes.

[0120] The second connection electrode CNE2 can be disposed on the first passivation layer PAS1. The second connection electrode CNE2 can electrically connect the first connection electrode CNE1 to the pixel electrode AE ​​of the light-emitting element ED. The second connection electrode CNE2 can contact the first connection electrode CNE1 through a contact hole formed in the first passivation layer PAS1, and / or be connected to the first connection electrode CNE1. Further, the second connection electrode CNE2 can contact the pixel electrode AE ​​of the light-emitting element ED through a contact hole formed in the second passivation layer PAS2, and / or be connected to the pixel electrode AE ​​of the light-emitting element ED. In another embodiment, the thin-film transistor layer TFTL may not include the second connection electrode CNE2, and the pixel electrode AE ​​of the light-emitting element ED can be directly connected to the first connection electrode CNE1 (or an electrode of the thin-film transistor TFT).

[0121] The second passivation layer PAS2 may cover the second connection electrode CNE2 and the first passivation layer PAS1. The second passivation layer PAS2 may include a contact hole through which the pixel electrode AE ​​of the light-emitting element ED passes. In another embodiment, the thin-film transistor layer TFTL may not include the second connection electrode CNE2 and the second passivation layer PAS2, and the pixel electrode AE ​​of the light-emitting element ED may be disposed on the first passivation layer PAS1.

[0122] The light-emitting element layer (EML) can be disposed on the thin-film transistor layer (TFTL). The EML can include light-emitting elements (EDs) and pixel-defining films (PDLs). The EDs can be disposed in each emission region (EA).

[0123] Each light-emitting element ED may include a pixel electrode AE ​​(e.g., a first electrode or anode electrode of the light-emitting element ED), a light-emitting layer EL, and a common electrode CE (e.g., a second electrode or cathode electrode of the light-emitting element ED). For example, a first light-emitting element ED1 disposed in each first emission region EA1 may include a first pixel electrode AE1, a light-emitting layer EL, and a common electrode CE. The first pixel electrode AE1, the light-emitting layer EL, and the common electrode CE may be sequentially disposed on the first pixel electrode AE1. A second light-emitting element ED2 disposed in each second emission region EA2 may include a second pixel electrode AE2, a light-emitting layer EL, and a common electrode CE. The second pixel electrode AE2, the light-emitting layer EL, and the common electrode CE may be sequentially disposed on the second pixel electrode AE2. A third light-emitting element ED3 disposed in each third emission region EA3 may include a third pixel electrode AE3, a light-emitting layer EL, and a common electrode CE. The third pixel electrode AE3, the light-emitting layer EL, and the common electrode CE may be sequentially disposed on the third pixel electrode AE3.

[0124] Pixel electrodes AE can be disposed on the second passivation layer PAS2. Different pixel electrodes AE can be disposed in different emission regions EA. For example, the first pixel electrode AE1, the second pixel electrode AE2, and the third pixel electrode AE3 of pixel PX can be disposed in the first emission region EA1, the second emission region EA2, and the third emission region EA3 of pixel PX, respectively.

[0125] In this embodiment, at least a portion of each of the pixel electrodes AE can be exposed without being covered by the pixel defining film PDL. For example, at least a portion of the region including its central portion of each first pixel electrode AE1 can be exposed by a first opening OPN1 of the pixel defining film PDL, at least a portion of the region including its central portion of each second pixel electrode AE2 can be exposed by a second opening OPN2 of the pixel defining film PDL, and at least a portion of the region including its central portion of each third pixel electrode AE3 can be exposed by a third opening OPN3 of the pixel defining film PDL. The edge portions of the pixel electrodes AE can be covered by the pixel defining film PDL.

[0126] Each light-emitting layer EL can be disposed on the portion of the pixel electrode AE ​​exposed by the opening OPN of the pixel-defining film PDL. Accordingly, each light-emitting element ED can be disposed and / or formed in each emission region EA. In embodiments, each light-emitting layer EL and the light-emitting element ED including the light-emitting layer EL can have a size and / or shape corresponding to the size and / or shape of each opening OPN of the pixel-defining film PDL.

[0127] The pixel electrode AE ​​can be electrically connected to an electrode of the thin-film transistor TFT. For example, the pixel electrode AE ​​can be electrically connected to the drain electrode DE of the thin-film transistor TFT via a first connection electrode CNE1 and a second connection electrode CNE2.

[0128] The light-emitting layer EL can be disposed on the pixel electrode AE. In an embodiment, the light-emitting layer EL can be an organic light-emitting layer made of organic materials, but is not limited thereto.

[0129] In this embodiment, the emitting layers EL of the first light-emitting element ED1, the second light-emitting element ED2, and the third light-emitting element ED3 can emit light of different colors. For example, the emitting layer EL of the first light-emitting element ED1 can emit light of a first color (e.g., red light), the emitting layer EL of the second light-emitting element ED2 can emit light of a second color (e.g., green light), and the emitting layer EL of the third light-emitting element ED3 can emit light of a third color (e.g., blue light).

[0130] However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, in another embodiment, the light-emitting layer EL of the light-emitting element ED can be formed as a common layer disposed on different pixel electrodes AE and pixel defining films PDL, and the light-emitting layers EL disposed on different pixel electrodes AE can emit light of the same color. In this case, the display device 10 may further include a color adjustment layer disposed on the light-emitting element ED (e.g., a color conversion layer including a wavelength conversion pattern and / or a color adjustment layer including a color filter CF).

[0131] A common electrode CE can be disposed on the light-emitting layer EL of each of the light-emitting elements ED. In an embodiment, the common electrode CE can be formed as a common layer disposed entirely in the display area DA, and the light-emitting elements ED of pixel PX can share a common electrode CE. The common electrode CE can receive a common voltage (e.g., a second pixel voltage or a cathode voltage).

[0132] The pixel defining film (PDL) may include an opening (OPN) corresponding to the emission region (EA) and may be disposed on a portion of the pixel electrode (AE) and the second passivation layer (PAS2). For example, the pixel defining film (PDL) may be disposed at least in the non-emission region (NEA) and may include a first opening (OPN1) disposed in each first emission region (EA1), a second opening (OPN2) disposed in each second emission region (EA2), and a third opening (OPN3) disposed in each third emission region (EA3).

[0133] In one embodiment, the opening OPN of the pixel-defining film PDL may have a smaller size than the size of each of the emission regions EA, and may be disposed within the emission regions EA. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the opening OPN of the pixel-defining film PDL may have a size substantially the same as the size of each of the emission regions EA. In another example, the pixel-defining film PDL may have a larger size than the size of each of the emission regions EA, and may overlap at least a portion of the light-shielding layer BM of the color filter layer CFL.

[0134] In embodiments, the openings (OPNs) of the pixel-defining film (PDL) can have different sizes. For example, the openings (OPNs) of the pixel-defining film (PDL) can have sizes corresponding to the sizes of the individual light-emitting elements (EDs) or the individual emitting regions (EAs). For example, the size of the first opening (OPN1) in the first emitting region (EA1) of each pixel (PX) (or the first aperture ratio of the pixel-defining film PDL corresponding to the first emitting region (EA1)) can be larger than the size of the second opening (OPN2) in the second emitting region (EA2) of each pixel (PX) (or the second aperture ratio of the pixel-defining film PDL corresponding to the second emitting region (EA2)), and can be smaller than the size of the third opening (OPN3) in the third emitting region (EA3) of each pixel (PX) (or the third aperture ratio of the pixel-defining film PDL corresponding to the third emitting region (EA3)).

[0135] In embodiments, the pixel-defining film (PDL) may include a light-absorbing material for reducing or preventing light reflection. For example, the PDL may include a polyimide (PI) binder and a mixture of red, green, and blue pigments. Alternatively, the PDL may include a carbole-based binder resin and a mixture of lactam black and blue pigments. Alternatively, the PDL may include carbon black.

[0136] The encapsulation layer TFEL can be disposed on the common electrode CE and can cover the light-emitting element ED. In an embodiment, the encapsulation layer TFEL may include at least one inorganic film for inhibiting or preventing oxygen or moisture from penetrating into the light-emitting element layer EML, and may include at least one organic film for protecting the light-emitting element layer EML from foreign matter such as dust.

[0137] In an embodiment, the encapsulation layer TFEL may include a first encapsulation layer TFE1, a second encapsulation layer TFE2, and a third encapsulation layer TFE3 sequentially disposed on the light-emitting element ED. The first encapsulation layer TFE1 and the third encapsulation layer TFE3 may be inorganic encapsulation layers, and the second encapsulation layer TFE2 disposed between the first encapsulation layer TFE1 and the third encapsulation layer TFE3 may be an organic encapsulation layer.

[0138] Each of the first encapsulation layer TFE1 and the third encapsulation layer TFE3 may include an inorganic insulating material. For example, each of the first encapsulation layer TFE1 and the third encapsulation layer TFE3 may include aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, tantalum oxide, hafnium oxide, zinc oxide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride or silicon oxynitride and / or another inorganic insulating material.

[0139] The second encapsulation layer TFE2 may include an organic insulating material. For example, the second encapsulation layer TFE2 may include a polymeric organic insulating material such as acrylic resin, epoxy resin, polyimide, or polyethylene, or may include another organic insulating material. The second encapsulation layer TFE2 may be formed by curing monomers or coating polymers.

[0140] The touch sensing layer TSU can be disposed on the encapsulation layer TFEL. For example, the touch sensing layer TSU can be disposed between the display layer DU and the color filter layer CFL. However, the embodiments are not limited to this, and the position of the touch sensing layer TSU can be changed. In another embodiment, the touch sensing layer TSU and the display layer DU can be integrated, or the display device 10 may not include a separate touch sensing layer TSU. In this case, the color filter layer CFL can be disposed on the display layer DU. For example, the color filter layer CFL can be directly disposed on the display layer DU.

[0141] The touch sensing layer (TSU) may include a first insulating layer (SIL1), a second insulating layer (SIL2), a touch electrode (TL), and a third insulating layer (SIL3). In an embodiment, one of the first insulating layer (SIL1) and the third insulating layer (SIL3) may be omitted.

[0142] The touch sensing layer (TSU) may include a conductive pattern containing touch electrodes (TL). The conductive pattern may be a sensing pattern used to sense touch input. For example, the conductive pattern of the touch sensing layer (TSU) may be used to sense changes in electrical characteristics (e.g., changes in capacitance) according to touch input and to detect the touch input.

[0143] In an embodiment, the touch electrode TL can be formed in a planar view as a grid pattern including openings in the emission region EA of the exposed pixel PX. For example, each touch electrode TL or each of the plurality of electrode units constituting the touch electrode TL can be a grid pattern disposed in a non-emission region and formed by fine lines overlapping with the light-shielding layer BM. For example, arranged in Figure 5 The touch electrodes TL between the emission regions EA of the pixel PX can be different parts of a grid pattern forming a touch electrode TL. The touch sensing layer TSU can include multiple touch electrodes TL arranged at positions corresponding to the touch nodes of the display area DA, and the size, resolution, and / or arrangement spacing of the touch electrodes TL can be the same as or different from the size, resolution, and / or arrangement spacing of the pixel PX.

[0144] In an embodiment, the conductive pattern of the touch sensing layer TSU may further include bridging patterns TBR that connect the touch electrodes TL (or electrode units forming the touch electrodes TL) in shape and / or structure. Each bridging pattern TBR may overlap with a portion of at least one touch electrode TL (e.g., two electrode units included in the touch electrode TL and adjacent to each other) and may be electrically connected to the touch electrode TL.

[0145] In this embodiment, the conductive pattern of the touch sensing layer TSU can be disposed in the non-emitting region NEA surrounding the emitting region EA, and can be covered by the light-shielding layer BM. Accordingly, the visibility of the conductive pattern of the touch sensing layer TSU to the outside can be reduced or prevented.

[0146] In an embodiment, the touch sensing layer TSU may include multiple conductive layers. For example, the touch sensing layer TSU may include a first conductive layer (e.g., a lower conductive layer) containing a bridging pattern TBR and a second conductive layer (e.g., an upper conductive layer) containing touch electrodes TL. A second insulating layer SIL2 may be disposed between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer. In an embodiment, the first conductive layer may be disposed below the second insulating layer SIL2, and the second conductive layer may be disposed above the second insulating layer SIL2, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the arrangement order or position of the first and second conductive layers may be changed.

[0147] The first insulating layer SIL1 can be disposed on the encapsulation layer TFEL. The first insulating layer SIL1 can have both insulating and optical functions. In an embodiment, the first insulating layer SIL1 may include at least one inorganic film. The first insulating layer SIL1 may be omitted.

[0148] The bridging pattern TBR can be disposed on the first insulating layer SIL1. According to an embodiment, the position of the bridging pattern TBR can be changed.

[0149] The second insulating layer SIL2 can be disposed on the bridging pattern TBR. For example, the second insulating layer SIL2 can cover the bridging pattern TBR and the first insulating layer SIL1, and can be disposed between the touch electrode TL and the bridging pattern TBR. The second insulating layer SIL2 may include a contact hole through which the touch electrode TL (or the bridging pattern TBR) passes at the portion where the touch electrode TL and the bridging pattern TBR are connected.

[0150] The second insulating layer SIL2 can have both insulating and optical functions. In one embodiment, the second insulating layer SIL2 can be an inorganic film comprising at least one of a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, and an aluminum oxide layer. In another embodiment, the second insulating layer SIL2 can be an optically transparent organic film.

[0151] The touch electrode TL (or a portion of the touch electrode TL in the display area DA) may be disposed on the second insulating layer SIL2. The touch electrode TL may include a conductive material and may be formed as a single layer or multiple layers. For example, the touch electrode TL may be formed as a single layer comprising molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), or indium tin oxide (ITO), or may be formed as a stacked structure of aluminum and titanium (Ti / Al / Ti), a stacked structure of aluminum and ITO (ITO / Al / ITO), an Ag-Pd-Cu (APC) alloy, or a stacked structure of APC alloy and ITO (ITO / APC / ITO).

[0152] In this embodiment, the touch electrode TL may not overlap with the pixel electrode AE. For example, the touch electrode TL may be disposed in the non-emitting region NEA and may overlap with the pixel defining film PDL and the light-shielding layer BM.

[0153] In an embodiment, the light-shielding layer BM may have a width sufficient to completely cover the touch electrode TL. For example, the width of the light-shielding layer BM may be equal to or greater than the width of the touch electrode TL. In an embodiment, the touch electrode TL may be configured such that its center portion is aligned with the center portion of the light-shielding layer BM, and the gap from the side of the touch electrode TL to the edge of the light-shielding layer BM may be uniform.

[0154] A third insulating layer SIL3 can be disposed on the touch electrode TL. For example, the third insulating layer SIL3 can cover the touch electrode TL and the second insulating layer SIL2. The third insulating layer SIL3 can have both insulating and optical functions. In an embodiment, the third insulating layer SIL3 can include a material exemplified as the material of the second insulating layer SIL2. The third insulating layer SIL3 can be omitted.

[0155] The color filter layer (CFL) can be disposed on the light-emitting element layer (EML). For example, the color filter layer (CFL) can be disposed on the touch sensing layer (TSU) and can cover the light-emitting element layer (EML), the encapsulation layer (TFEL), and the touch sensing layer (TSU).

[0156] A color filter layer CFL may include a light-shielding layer BM, a color filter CF, and at least one passivation layer. For example, a color filter layer CFL may include a light-shielding layer BM, a color filter CF, a passivation layer PSV (or a first passivation layer), and an outer coating OC (or a second passivation layer).

[0157] although Figure 5 The illustration shows an embodiment in which the light-shielding layer BM and the color filter CF are formed separately from each other, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the display device 10 according to another embodiment may omit this. Figure 5At least a portion of the light-shielding layer BM, and light can be blocked by arranging the first color filter CF1, the second color filter CF2 and the third color filter CF3 in the non-emitting region NEA to overlap each other.

[0158] The light-shielding layer BM can be disposed on the touch sensing layer TSU. The light-shielding layer BM can be disposed in the non-emitting area NEA. The light-shielding layer BM can be an opaque pattern including light-absorbing material.

[0159] The light-shielding layer BM may include openings that expose pixel electrodes AE. For example, the light-shielding layer BM may include openings that expose the respective emission regions EA of pixels PX arranged in the display area DA in a plan view, and may be disposed in the non-emission region NEA of the display area DA. The light-shielding layer BM may be entirely disposed in the non-emission region NEA of the display area DA. For example, Figure 4 The emission area EA can correspond to the opening of the light-shielding layer BM, and the light-shielding layer BM can be set in the non-emission area NEA to surround the emission area EA.

[0160] In one embodiment, the opening of the light-shielding layer BM corresponding to each emitting region EA can have a size larger than the size of each opening OPN in the pixel-defining film PDL, to expose at least a portion of the light-emitting element region where each light-emitting layer EL is disposed on the pixel electrode AE. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the pixel-defining film PDL and the light-shielding layer BM can be opened with substantially the same area in the sub-pixel region where each sub-pixel SPX is disposed.

[0161] In describing the embodiments, the light-transmitting area of ​​the light-emitting element exposed by the opening of the light-shielding layer BM can be defined as the emitting region EA, and the light-shielding area where the light-shielding layer BM is disposed can be defined as the non-emitting region NEA. However, the criteria used to distinguish between the emitting region EA and the non-emitting region NEA can vary. For example, the area of ​​the pixel electrode AE ​​exposed by the opening OPN of the pixel defining film PDL can be defined as the emitting region EA.

[0162] Color filters CF can be disposed on the touch sensing layer TSU and the light-shielding layer BM. Color filters CF can be disposed within each emission region EA and overlap with each light-emitting element ED. In embodiments, color filters CF can also be disposed around each emission region EA, and at least two adjacent color filters CF between emission regions EA can overlap each other. For example, the edge portion of each of the color filters CF can be disposed on the light-shielding layer BM and / or at least one other color filter CF. Accordingly, the color filters CF can have a concave cross-sectional shape in which the height of the central portion disposed in each emission region EA is lower than the height of the edge portion.

[0163] A first color filter CF1 may be disposed within a first emission region EA1 and overlap with a first light-emitting element ED1. In an embodiment, the edge portion of the first color filter CF1 may be disposed around the first emission region EA1 and overlap with a portion of the light-shielding layer BM. For example, in a plan view, the edge portion of the first color filter CF1 may surround the first emission region EA1 and may be disposed on a portion of the light-shielding layer BM.

[0164] The second color filter CF2 can be disposed within the second emission region EA2 and overlap with the second light-emitting element ED2. In an embodiment, the edge portion of the second color filter CF2 can be disposed around the second emission region EA2 and overlap with a portion of the light-shielding layer BM. For example, in a plan view, the edge portion of the second color filter CF2 can surround the second emission region EA2 and can be disposed on a portion of the light-shielding layer BM.

[0165] A third color filter CF3 may be disposed within the third emission region EA3 and overlap with the third light-emitting element ED3. In an embodiment, the edge portion of the third color filter CF3 may be disposed around the third emission region EA3 and overlap with a portion of the light-shielding layer BM. For example, in a plan view, the edge portion of the third color filter CF3 may surround the third emission region EA3 and may be disposed on a portion of the light-shielding layer BM.

[0166] Color filters CF can contain colorants, such as dyes or pigments, that absorb light in wavelength bands other than a specific wavelength band. For example, a first color filter CF1 can transmit light of a first color emitted from a first light-emitting element ED1 in a first emission region EA1, and can absorb and / or block light of other colors (e.g., second and third colors). For example, the first color filter CF1 can be a red color filter that selectively transmits red light emitted from the first light-emitting element ED1. A second color filter CF2 can transmit light of a second color emitted from a second light-emitting element ED2 in a second emission region EA2, and can absorb and / or block light of other colors (e.g., first and third colors). For example, the second color filter CF2 can be a green color filter that selectively transmits green light emitted from the second light-emitting element ED2. A third color filter CF3 can transmit light of a third color emitted from a third light-emitting element ED3 in a third emission region EA3, and can absorb and / or block light of other colors (e.g., first and second colors). For example, the third color filter CF3 can be a blue color filter that selectively transmits blue light emitted from the third light-emitting element ED3.

[0167] By arranging a color filter CF and a light-shielding layer BM on the display layer DU, the intensity of reflected light caused by external light can be reduced. Consequently, image quality degradation due to external light can be reduced.

[0168] In an embodiment, the color filter CF may have a thickness adjusted or optimized according to the light efficiency of the pixel PX. For example, the color filter CF may have a thickness that varies or is optimized according to the luminous efficiency of the light generated from the individual light-emitting elements ED (e.g., the color filter transmittance of the light generated from the individual light-emitting elements ED).

[0169] In an embodiment, the first color filter CF1 may have a first thickness d1 adjusted or optimized according to the luminous efficiency of the first color light emitted from the first light-emitting element ED1, the second color filter CF2 may have a second thickness d2 adjusted or optimized according to the luminous efficiency of the second color light emitted from the second light-emitting element ED2, and the third color filter CF3 may have a third thickness d3 adjusted or optimized according to the luminous efficiency of the third color light emitted from the third light-emitting element ED3. When describing the embodiment, the thickness of the color filters CF can be compared relative to the central portion of the color filters CF arranged in the emission region EA. For example, the central portions of the first color filter CF1, the second color filter CF2, and the third color filter CF3 may each have substantially a first thickness d1, a second thickness d2, and a third thickness d3, respectively, and the first thickness d1, the second thickness d2, and the third thickness d3 may be thicknesses set to optimize the frontal luminous efficiency of the sub-pixel SPX. In an embodiment, the thickness of the edge portion of each of the color filters CF may be less than the thickness of the central portion of each of the color filters CF.

[0170] In an embodiment, the first thickness d1 may be less than the second thickness d2 and the third thickness d3, and the second thickness d2 may be greater than the first thickness d1 and the third thickness d3. For example, the first color filter CF1 may have the minimum thickness, and the second color filter CF2 may have the maximum thickness. The third color filter CF3 may have an intermediate thickness. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and the thickness of the color filter CF may vary depending on the luminous efficiency of each light-emitting element ED, the optimal ratio of the first color light, the second color light, and the third color light emitted from each emission region EA, or various other factors.

[0171] The passivation layer PSV and the outer coating OC can be sequentially arranged on the light-shielding layer BM and the color filter CFL. The passivation layer PSV and the outer coating OC can be arranged entirely in the display area DA to flatten the step portion caused by the color filter CF and the light-shielding layer BM, and to protect the display panel 100.

[0172] The passivation layer PSV and the outer coating OC can be transparent. In an embodiment, the passivation layer PSV and the outer coating OC may comprise a colorless, transparent organic material such as acrylic resin.

[0173] In the display device 10 according to the embodiment, the side brightness and / or viewing angle of the sub-pixel SPX and the pixel PX including the sub-pixel SPX can vary depending on the width of the light-shielding layer BM. For example, if the width of the light-shielding layer BM is reduced, the side light emitted in the lateral direction of the pixel PX can be increased, thereby improving the side brightness ratio and / or viewing angle of the pixel PX. However, if the width of the light-shielding layer BM is reduced, the reflectivity of the display panel 100 (e.g., external light reflectivity) will increase, which may degrade the image quality of the display device 10. On the other hand, if the width of the light-shielding layer BM is increased, the reflectivity of the display panel 100 (e.g., external light reflectivity) may be reduced, but the blocking rate of the light-shielding layer BM on side light will increase, which may degrade the side brightness ratio and / or viewing angle of the pixel PX.

[0174] Furthermore, in the display device 10 according to the embodiment, the color filter transmission lengths of the front light emitted from the light-emitting element ED disposed in each emission region EA in the front direction (e.g., third-direction DR3) and the side light emitted in the lateral direction can be different as they pass through each color filter CF. For example, the color filter transmission length L1 of the front light Lf emitted from the second light-emitting element ED2 in the third-direction DR3 can correspond to the second thickness d2 of the second color filter CF2. On the other hand, the color filter transmission lengths L2 and L3 of the first side light Ls1 and the second side light Ls2 emitted from the second light-emitting element ED2 of the second sub-pixel SPX2 can be greater than the second thickness d2 of the second color filter CF2. The color filter transmission length of the side light emitted from each light-emitting element ED can vary depending on the shape of the color filter CF disposed on the light-emitting element ED, the thickness of the color filter CF, and / or the path through which the side light passes.

[0175] In each pixel PX, the luminance ratio of the side light emitted from each light-emitting element ED can vary depending on the size of the emitting region EA (e.g., the luminous area) or the aperture ratio of the pixel-defined film PDL. For example, the size of the second emitting region EA2 can be smaller than the size of each of the first emitting region EA1 and the third emitting region EA3, such that the luminance ratio of the second color side light can be lower than the luminance ratio of the first color side light and the luminance ratio of the third color side light. Accordingly, color shift may occur when viewing an image displayed in the display area DA from the side. For example, since the luminance ratio of the second color light may be lower than the luminance ratio of the first color light and the luminance ratio of the third color light, viewing angle color shift may occur, and the side color of the image may change. The side color of the sub-pixel SPX can be the corner emission of the sub-pixel. The distance traveled by the corner emission within the color filter CF can be greater than the distance traveled by the front light Lf, which can be substantially perpendicular to the surface of the light-emitting element ED, through the color filter CF.

[0176] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view showing a display device according to an embodiment. For example, it shows the display device 10 along... Figure 4 The portion corresponding to the cross section of pixel PX intercepted by line X1-X1'. Figure 6 Showing the relationship with the CFL color filter layer Figure 5 Different embodiments.

[0177] In describing the following embodiments, components that are substantially the same as or similar to those in at least one of the above embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be omitted. Furthermore, each embodiment can be applied alone or in combination with at least one other embodiment, and all possible combinations of embodiments may fall within the scope of this disclosure.

[0178] refer to Figures 1 to 6 The display device 10 according to an embodiment may further include at least some of the underlying patterns PTN disposed in the color filters CF in each of the respective emission regions EA. For example, the patterns PTN may be arranged between each light-emitting element ED and each color filter CF. In an embodiment, the patterns PTN may be arranged in the color filter layer CFL, but are not limited thereto. In an embodiment, the patterns PTN may be a light-transmitting pattern.

[0179] In an embodiment, the pattern PTN can be formed as a separate pattern arranged in each emitter region EA. The pattern PTN can be spaced apart from the light-shielding layer BM. For example, the pattern PTN can expose a portion of the top surface of the touch sensing layer TSU disposed between the pattern PTN and the light-shielding layer BM. In a plan view, the pattern PTN can be surrounded by the light-shielding layer BM.

[0180] Patterned PTNs can be translucent. For example, a patterned PTN can be substantially transparent, and therefore, can be translucent. For instance, a patterned PTN can be a transparent pattern with a transmittance greater than approximately 90% or greater than approximately 95%. Accordingly, light emitted from the light-emitting element (ED) can be transmitted through the patterned PTN. Patterned PTNs can also be referred to as "translucent patterns." Patterned PTNs can be formed from organic or inorganic materials, and the materials used in patterned PTNs are not particularly limited.

[0181] A patterned PTN can be used as a contour control layer (or light control layer) for changing or controlling the shape of a color filter CF. For example, the patterned PTN can form a stepped portion under the color filter CF, allowing the color filter CF to have a shape corresponding to the patterned PTN (e.g., a cross-sectional shape corresponding to the patterned PTN). For example, the thickness or height of the patterned PTN can be different for each of the color filters CF, and the shape and / or height of the color filter CF can be adjusted according to the thickness or height of the patterned PTN. For example, the color filter CF can be at least partially a conformal layer.

[0182] In an embodiment, the first pattern PTN1, the second pattern PTN2, and the third pattern PTN3 can be arranged below the first color filter CF1, the second color filter CF2, and the third color filter CF3, respectively. Accordingly, the first color filter CF1, the second color filter CF2, and the third color filter CF3 can have shapes corresponding to the shapes of the first pattern PTN1, the second pattern PTN2, and the third pattern PTN3, respectively.

[0183] In this embodiment, the pattern PTN can be arranged on each light-emitting element ED. For example, a first pattern PTN1 can be disposed on the first light-emitting element ED1 and can completely or partially cover the first opening OPN1 of the pixel defining film PDL. A second pattern PTN2 can be disposed on the second light-emitting element ED2 and can completely or partially cover the second opening OPN2 of the pixel defining film PDL. A third pattern PTN3 can be disposed on the third light-emitting element ED3 and can completely or partially cover the third opening OPN3 of the pixel defining film PDL.

[0184] Here, color filters (CFs) can be described in terms of convex and concave shapes. It should be understood that these terms can be used to describe the properties of a shape based on its geometry and how its boundaries are represented, and these terms can be applied to both curved and polygonal shapes. For example, a shape can be convex if any line segment drawn between two points within the shape lies entirely inside the shape, and a shape can be concave if there is at least one line segment drawn between two points within the shape that passes through the outside of the shape.

[0185] The first color filter CF1 may protrude in the height direction on the first pattern PTN1, and therefore may have a convex cross-sectional shape. For example, the first color filter CF1 may include a central portion having a shape and / or size corresponding to the shape and / or size of the first pattern PTN1 and protruding higher than the periphery, and an edge portion having a height lower than the height of the central portion. In a plan view, the central portion of the first color filter CF1 may be disposed in the first emission region EA1 and overlap with the first pattern PTN1, and the edge portion of the first color filter CF1 may surround the central portion of the first color filter CF1 and the first pattern PTN1. The edge portion of the first color filter CF1 may overlap with the light-shielding layer BM in the non-emission region NEA.

[0186] The second color filter CF2 may protrude in the height direction on the second pattern PTN2, and therefore may have a convex cross-sectional shape. For example, the second color filter CF2 may include a central portion having a shape and / or size corresponding to the shape and / or size of the second pattern PTN2 and protruding higher than the periphery, and an edge portion having a height lower than the height of the central portion. In a plan view, the central portion of the second color filter CF2 may be disposed in the second emission region EA2 and overlap with the second pattern PTN2, and the edge portion of the second color filter CF2 may surround the central portion of the second color filter CF2 and the second pattern PTN2. The edge portion of the second color filter CF2 may overlap with the light-shielding layer BM in the non-emission region NEA.

[0187] The third color filter CF3 may protrude in the height direction on the third pattern PTN3, and therefore may have a convex cross-sectional shape. For example, the third color filter CF3 may include a central portion having a shape and / or dimensions corresponding to the shape and / or dimensions of the third pattern PTN3 and protruding higher than the periphery, and an edge portion having a height lower than the central portion. In a plan view, the central portion of the third color filter CF3 may be disposed in the third emission region EA3 and overlap with the third pattern PTN3, and the edge portion of the third color filter CF3 may surround the central portion of the third color filter CF3 and the third pattern PTN3. The edge portion of the third color filter CF3 may overlap with the light-shielding layer BM in the non-emission region NEA.

[0188] In an embodiment, in addition to the convex cross-sectional shape, at least a portion of the color filter CF may have a thickness depending on the luminous efficiency of the light-emitting element ED. For example, a portion of the first color filter CF1 on the first pattern PTN1 may have a first thickness d1, a portion of the second color filter CF2 on the second pattern PTN2 may have a second thickness d2, and a portion of the third color filter CF3 on the third pattern PTN3 may have a third thickness d3.

[0189] In an embodiment, the patterned PTN can be formed to have a substantially uniform thickness. For example, the first patterned PTN1, the second patterned PTN2, and the third patterned PTN3 can have a substantially identical fourth thickness d4.

[0190] According to some embodiments, the side brightness ratio and viewing angle of pixel PX can be improved. For example, since the central portion of the color filter CF arranged on each light-emitting element ED is highlighted by the pattern PTN, the side light emitted from the first emission region EA1, the second emission region EA2, and the third emission region EA3 of pixel PX can be increased. Accordingly, with Figure 5 Compared to pixel PX excluding pattern PTN, in Figure 6 In a pixel PX, the color filter transmission length of at least a portion of the side light can be reduced or minimized. Correspondingly, the difference between the color filter transmission length of the front light and the color filter transmission length of the side light can be reduced, and the side brightness ratio can be improved (e.g., increased). For example, since the second color filter CF2 has a convex shape, the color filter transmission lengths L2' and L3' of the first side light Ls1 and the second side light Ls2 emitted from the second emission region EA2 can be reduced or minimized. Similarly, since the first color filter CF1 and the third color filter CF3 have convex shapes, the side light emitted from the first emission region EA1 and the third emission region EA3 can be increased. Because the amount of side light emitted from the pixel PX is increased, the difference between the front brightness and the side brightness of the pixel PX can be reduced or minimized, and the side brightness ratio and viewing angle of the pixel PX can be increased.

[0191] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view showing a display device according to an embodiment. Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view showing a display device according to an embodiment. For example, it shows the display device 10 along... Figure 4 The portion corresponding to the cross section of pixel PX intercepted by line X1-X1'. Figure 7 and Figure 8 Showing the relationship between pattern PTN and Figure 6 Different embodiments.

[0192] Apart from Figures 1 to 6 In addition, refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 The pattern PTN can be set in some emission regions EA within the emission region EA of each pixel PX. For example, the pattern PTN can be as follows: Figure 6 The arrangement shown is in all emission regions EA of pixel PX, or it can be as follows: Figure 7 and Figure 8The emission regions EA of the pixel PX are selectively and / or differentially arranged. Depending on the selective and / or differential arrangement of the pattern PTN, at least two color filters CF of the sub-pixel SPX may have different cross-sectional shapes.

[0193] In an embodiment, such as Figure 7 The diagram in the image shows... Figure 6 The first pattern PTN1 and the third pattern PTN3 may not be arranged in the first emission region EA1 and the third emission region EA3, and the second pattern PTN2 may be arranged in the second emission region EA2. For example, the pattern PTN may have one or more openings. Figure 7 In the pattern PTN, a first opening in a first emission region EA1 and a second opening in a third emission region EA3 can be included. A first color filter CF1 can be directly disposed on the touch sensing layer TSU in the first opening of the first emission region EA1, and a third color filter CF3 can be directly disposed on the touch sensing layer TSU in the second opening of the third emission region EA3. Accordingly, the first and third color filters CF1 and CF3 can have concave cross-sectional shapes, and the second color filter CF2 can have a convex cross-sectional shape. Because the second color filter CF2 has a convex cross-sectional shape, the lateral brightness ratio of the second color light emitted from the second emission region EA2 of the second sub-pixel SPX2 can be increased. Consequently, the lateral brightness ratio difference between sub-pixels SPX can be reduced, and the color of pixel PX can be improved. For example, by setting the second pattern PTN2 in the second emission region EA2 of the second sub-pixel SPX2, which has the smallest emission region EA and the lowest side brightness ratio, the side brightness ratio of the second sub-pixel SPX2 can be increased, thereby reducing or minimizing the side brightness ratio difference between the first sub-pixel SPX1, the second sub-pixel SPX2, and the third sub-pixel SPX3. Accordingly, the color variation of the image according to the viewing angle (e.g., the phenomenon where the color of the image becomes slightly reddish or slightly bluish) can be reduced or minimized, and the side color of the display device 10 can be improved.

[0194] In an embodiment, such as Figure 7 As illustrated, the differences between the filter transmission lengths L1, L2', and L3' of the front light Lf, the first side light Ls1, and the second side light Ls2 emitted from the second emission region EA2 can be reduced or minimized. For example, the filter transmission length L1 of the front light Lf can be greater than the filter transmission length L2' of the first side light Ls1 and less than the filter transmission length L3' of the second side light Ls2. For example, the color purity of the second emission region EA2 can be improved.

[0195] In an embodiment, a color filter can be omitted from at least one emission region. For example, a first color filter CF1 can be omitted from a first emission region EA1. For example, a sub-pixel corresponding to the first emission region EA1 can emit blue light.

[0196] In another embodiment, such as Figure 8 As illustrated, the first pattern PTN1 and the third pattern PTN3 can be arranged in the first transmission region EA1 and the third transmission region EA3, respectively. Figure 6 The second pattern PTN2 may not be set in the second emission region EA2. Correspondingly, the first color filter CF1 and the third color filter CF3 may have convex cross-sectional shapes, and the second color filter CF2 may have a concave cross-sectional shape. Since the first color filter CF1 and the third color filter CF3 have convex cross-sectional shapes, the lateral brightness ratio of the first color light emitted from the first sub-pixel SPX1 and the third color light emitted from the third sub-pixel SPX3 can be increased. Accordingly, the lateral brightness ratio difference between sub-pixels SPX within a specific viewing angle range can be reduced, and the color of pixel PX can be improved.

[0197] Mismatched side color distribution of sub-pixels SPX can lead to angular color shift. For example, if the angular distribution of red and blue sub-pixels decreases faster than that of green sub-pixels, the white point of the emitted light may appear slightly greenish at wide viewing angles. Accordingly, the side color of the display device 10 may have a color shift (e.g., green shift) within a specific viewing angle range (e.g., approximately 60°) depending on the arrangement pattern of the emission region EA, etc. In some embodiments, the side brightness ratio of the first sub-pixel SPX1 and the third sub-pixel SPX3 can be increased by changing the shape of the first color filter CF1 and the third color filter CF3 by the first pattern PTN1 and the third pattern PTN3. Accordingly, the phenomenon of color shift in the side color of the display device 10 can be prevented or mitigated, and the side brightness ratio and side color of the display device 10 can be improved.

[0198] Furthermore, embodiments reflecting possible combinations related to the selective and / or differential arrangement of the pattern PTN may fall within the scope of this disclosure. For example, a translucent pattern PTN may be disposed below a color filter CF in at least one emission region EA of the pixel PX, and the color filter CF on the pattern PTN may have a convex cross-sectional shape corresponding to the convex cross-sectional shape of the pattern PTN. In embodiments, the side brightness ratio and / or side color of the pixel PX, as well as the display device 10 including the pixel PX, can be adjusted or improved based on the pattern PTN selectively and / or differentially arranged in the emission region EA of the pixel PX.

[0199] Figure 9This is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment. Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view showing a display device according to an embodiment. For example, it shows the display device 10 along... Figure 4 The portion corresponding to the cross section of pixel PX intercepted by line X1-X1'. Figure 9 and Figure 10 Showing the relationship between pattern PTN and Figures 6 to 8 Different embodiments.

[0200] refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 The pattern PTN can be arranged differentially and / or selectively in the emission region EA of each pixel PX. For example, by differentiating at least one of the arrangement, size, and shape of the pattern PTN, the shape of the color filter CF arranged in each emission region EA or the lateral brightness ratio determined therefrom can be changed or differentiated. For example, in order to reduce or minimize the difference in lateral brightness ratio due to the size difference of the emission region EA, the pattern PTN can be selectively arranged according to the size of the emission region EA, or the size (e.g., area and / or thickness) of the pattern PTN can be differentiated. By differentiating the arrangement and / or size of the pattern PTN, at least two color filters CF of the sub-pixel SPX can have different cross-sectional shapes.

[0201] In an embodiment, such as Figure 9 As illustrated, each pattern PTN can be arranged in all emission regions EA of pixel PX, and the thickness of the pattern PTN arranged in at least two emission regions EA can be distinguished. For example, the first pattern PTN1, the second pattern PTN2, and the third pattern PTN3 can have a fifth thickness d5, a fourth thickness d4, and a sixth thickness d6, respectively. In an embodiment, the pattern PTN with the largest thickness can be arranged in the smallest emission region EA with a relatively low side brightness ratio to maximize the side brightness ratio of the emission region EA. For example, the second pattern PTN2 arranged in the second emission region EA2 can have a fourth thickness d4 that is greater than the thicknesses of the first pattern PTN1 and the third pattern PTN3, so that the side brightness ratio of the second emission region EA2 can be maximized. The first pattern PTN1 arranged in the first emission region EA1 of the middle size can have a fifth thickness d5 corresponding to the middle thickness, and the third pattern PTN3 arranged in the third emission region EA3 of the largest size can have a sixth thickness d6 corresponding to the minimum thickness. For example, the fifth thickness d5 can be greater than the sixth thickness d6 and less than the fourth thickness d4. Accordingly, the side brightness difference based on the size of the emission region EA can be reduced, and the side color of the pixel PX can be corrected or improved.

[0202] In another embodiment, such as Figure 10As illustrated, each pattern PTN can be set in some of the emission regions EA of pixel PX, and the pattern PTN may not be set in other emission regions EA. For example, the first pattern PTN1 and the second pattern PTN2 can be arranged in the first emission region EA1 and the second emission region EA2, respectively, and according to... Figure 6 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 In this embodiment, the third pattern PTN3 may not be disposed in the third emission region EA3. Optionally, the thickness of the pattern PTN can also be differentiated in the first emission region EA1 and the second emission region EA2. For example, the first pattern PTN1 with a fifth thickness d5 can be disposed in the first emission region EA1, and the second pattern PTN2 with a fourth thickness d4 can be disposed in the second emission region EA2. Accordingly, the side brightness ratio difference according to the size of the emission region EA can be reduced, and the side color of the pixel PX can be corrected or improved.

[0203] Besides reference Figures 8 to 10 Beyond the described embodiments, embodiments reflecting possible combinations relating to selective and / or differential arrangement and / or dimensional adjustment of the pattern PTN can all fall within the scope of this disclosure. In embodiments, in order to adjust or improve the side brightness ratio and / or side color of the pixel PX and the display device 10 including the pixel PX in a desired manner, the pattern PTN can be selectively and / or differentially arranged in the emission region EA of the pixel PX. Furthermore, the thickness of the pattern PTN can be uniformly formed or differentiated.

[0204] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view showing a display device according to an embodiment. For example, it shows the display device 10 along... Figure 4 The portion corresponding to the cross section of pixel PX intercepted by line X1-X1'. Figure 11 It shows differences in pattern PTN Figures 6 to 10 Examples of examples.

[0205] refer to Figures 1 to 11 The pattern PTN used to change the shape of the color filter CF and the lateral brightness ratio determined therefrom can be integrally formed with an insulating layer disposed on the touch sensing layer TSU. For example, the touch sensing layer TSU of the display device 10 according to the embodiment may include a second insulating layer SIL2 that protrudes in the height direction (e.g., third direction DR3) in each emission region EA. The protruding portion of the second insulating layer SIL2 may form each pattern PTN. For example, the second insulating layer SIL2 may protrude partially below the first color filter CF1 to form a first pattern PTN1, partially below the second color filter CF2 to form a second pattern PTN2, and partially below the third color filter CF3 to form a third pattern PTN3.

[0206] In this embodiment, the second insulating layer SIL2 may be an optically transparent organic film, but is not limited thereto. In this embodiment, the second insulating layer SIL2 with different thicknesses for each portion can be formed by a single mask process using a halftone mask, or the second insulating layer SIL2 with different thicknesses for each portion can be formed twice in at least one emission region EA using two mask processes.

[0207] The color filter CF can have a shape corresponding to the shape of the second insulating layer SIL2. For example, the first color filter CF1, the second color filter CF2, and the third color filter CF3 can have convex cross-sectional shapes that correspond to the convex cross-sectional shapes of the first pattern PTN1, the second pattern PTN2, and the third pattern PTN3 of the second insulating layer SIL2, respectively.

[0208] although Figure 11 An embodiment in which the second insulating layer SIL2 comprises patterned PTNs of the same thickness is disclosed, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, at least two of the patterned PTNs among the first patterned PTN1, the second patterned PTN2, and the third patterned PTN3 of the second insulating layer SIL2 may have different thicknesses.

[0209] Furthermore, despite Figure 11 An embodiment in which the second insulating layer SIL2 protrudes in all emission regions EA of a pixel PX to form various patterns PTN is disclosed, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the second insulating layer SIL2 may not include at least one of the first pattern PTN1, the second pattern PTN2, and the third pattern PTN3, and may be formed substantially flat in at least one emission region EA of the first emission region EA1, the second emission region EA2, and the third emission region EA3, as well as in the non-emission region NEA surrounding the emission region EA. Accordingly, at least one color filter CF of the first color filter CF1, the second color filter CF2, and the third color filter CF3 may have a concave cross-sectional shape, and the other color filters CF may have a convex cross-sectional shape corresponding to the convex cross-sectional shape of each pattern PTN.

[0210] Figure 12 This is a plan view illustrating pixels of a display device according to an embodiment. For example, it shows the approximate shape and position of the emission region EA of pixel PX according to an embodiment, as well as the light-emitting element ED and color filter CF arranged in the emission region EA. Figure 12 Showing the relationship with color filter CF Figure 4 Different embodiments.

[0211] Figure 13This is a cross-sectional view showing a display device according to an embodiment. For example, Figure 13 The display device 10 is shown along the Figure 12 The portion corresponding to the cross section of pixel PX intercepted by line X2-X2'.

[0212] refer to Figure 12 and Figure 13 The display device 10 may not include the pattern PTN according to the above embodiment, and at least one color filter CF may have a greater thickness at the central portion of each light-emitting element ED than at other portions and may have a substantially convex cross-sectional shape. For example, the first color filter CF1, the second color filter CF2, and the third color filter CF3 may have a greater thickness at the central portion of the first light-emitting element ED1, the second light-emitting element ED2, and the third light-emitting element ED3, respectively, than at other portions, and may have a substantially convex cross-sectional shape.

[0213] In embodiments, in addition to cross-sectional shape, at least a portion of the color filter CF may have a thickness according to the luminous efficiency of the light-emitting element ED. For example, a portion of the first color filter CF1 on the first light-emitting element ED1 may have a first thickness d1, the second color filter CF2 on the second light-emitting element ED2 may have a second thickness d2, and the third color filter CF3 on the third light-emitting element ED3 may have a third thickness d3.

[0214] In an embodiment, a color filter CF may include lower portions CF1A, CF2A, and CF3A, and upper portions CF1B, CF2B, and CF3B disposed on a portion of the lower portions CF1A, CF2A, and CF3A. In an embodiment, the thickness of the central portion of each color filter CF may be equal to the combined height of the lower and upper portions, wherein the central portion overlaps with the respective light-emitting elements ED. The thickness of each color filter CF, including the thicknesses of the lower portions CF1A, CF2A, and CF3A and the upper portions CF1B, CF2B, and CF3B, may correspond to a thickness selected based on the luminous efficiency of the light-emitting elements ED.

[0215] For example, the first color filter CF1 may include a lower portion CF1A having a thickness less than a first thickness d1 and an upper portion CF1B disposed on a portion of the lower portion CF1A and overlapping the first light-emitting element ED1. The lower portion CF1A of the first color filter CF1, typically disposed in a first color filter region where the first color filter CF1 is located, may be disposed in a first emission region EA1 and a non-emission region NEA surrounding the first emission region EA1. The upper portion CF1B of the first color filter CF1 may be disposed on the first light-emitting element ED1 and may completely or partially cover the first opening OPN1 of the pixel defining film PDL. For example, the upper portion CF1B of the first color filter CF1 may be disposed in the first emission region EA1 to cover the first light-emitting element ED1. In the first emission region EA1, the total thickness of the first color filter CF1, corresponding to the sum of the thickness of the lower portion CF1A and the thickness of the upper portion CF1B, may be the first thickness d1. Accordingly, the side luminance ratio can be improved while maintaining the front luminance ratio of the first sub-pixel SPX1, including the first emission region EA1.

[0216] The second color filter CF2 may include a lower portion CF2A having a thickness less than the second thickness d2 and an upper portion CF2B disposed on a portion of the lower portion CF2A and overlapping the second light-emitting element ED2. The lower portion CF2A of the second color filter CF2, typically disposed in the second color filter region where the second color filter CF2 is located, may be disposed in the second emission region EA2 and the non-emission region NEA surrounding the second emission region EA2. The upper portion CF2B of the second color filter CF2 may be disposed on the second light-emitting element ED2 and may completely or partially cover the second opening OPN2 of the pixel defining film PDL. For example, the upper portion CF2B of the second color filter CF2 may be disposed in the second emission region EA2 to cover the second light-emitting element ED2. In the second emission region EA2, the total thickness of the second color filter CF2, corresponding to the sum of the thickness of the lower portion CF2A and the thickness of the upper portion CF2B, may be the second thickness d2. Accordingly, the side luminance ratio can be improved while maintaining the front luminance ratio of the second sub-pixel SPX2, which includes the second emission region EA2.

[0217] The third color filter CF3 may include a lower portion CF3A having a thickness less than the third thickness d3 and an upper portion CF3B disposed on a portion of the lower portion CF3A and overlapping the third light-emitting element ED3. The lower portion CF3A of the third color filter CF3, typically disposed in the third color filter region, may be located in the third emission region EA3 and the non-emission region NEA surrounding the third emission region EA3. The upper portion CF3B of the third color filter CF3 may be disposed on the third light-emitting element ED3 and may completely or partially cover the third opening OPN3 of the pixel defining film PDL. For example, the upper portion CF3B of the third color filter CF3 may be disposed in the third emission region EA3 to cover the third light-emitting element ED3. In the third emission region EA3, the total thickness of the third color filter CF3, corresponding to the sum of the thickness of the lower portion CF3A and the upper portion CF3B, may be the third thickness d3. Accordingly, the side luminance ratio can be improved while maintaining the front luminance ratio of the third sub-pixel SPX3, which includes the third emission region EA3.

[0218] In an embodiment, the upper portions CF1B, CF2B, and CF3B of each color filter CF may have an island-like shape in a plan view and may be arranged in each emission region EA. For example, in a plan view, the upper portions CF1B, CF2B, and CF3B of each color filter CF may be spaced apart from and surrounded by the light-shielding layer BM. In a cross-sectional view, the upper portions CF1B, CF2B, and CF3B of each color filter CF may have a convex shape that protrudes in the height direction (e.g., the third direction DR3).

[0219] In embodiments, the lower portions CF1A, CF2A, and CF3A and the upper portions CF1B, CF2B, and CF3B of each color filter CF can be formed sequentially and / or continuously. For example, after the lower portions CF1A, CF2A, and CF3A of each color filter CF are formed, the upper portions CF1B, CF2B, and CF3B of each color filter CF can be formed on a portion of the lower portions CF1A, CF2A, and CF3A. In another embodiment, the lower portions CF1A, CF2A, and CF3A and the upper portions CF1B, CF2B, and CF3B of each color filter CF can be formed substantially simultaneously. For example, each color filter CF, having a different thickness for each portion and a substantially convex cross-sectional shape in each emission region EA, can be formed by a single mask process using a halftone mask.

[0220] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display device according to an embodiment. For example, it shows a display device with... Figure 12The cross-section of pixel PX at the position corresponding to line X2-X2' Figure 14 Showing differences in color filter CF Figure 12 and Figure 13 Examples of examples.

[0221] refer to Figure 14 Some color filters CF may include an upper portion protruding in the height direction within the emission region EA (e.g., the upper portion CF2B of the second color filter CF2), and other color filters CF may have a substantially concave shape. For example, the second color filter CF2 may be as follows: Figure 12 and Figure 13 As in the embodiment, it includes a lower portion CF2A and an upper portion CF2B and has a substantially convex cross-sectional shape, and the first color filter CF1 and the third color filter CF3 can be as follows: Figure 5 and Figure 7 In some embodiments, it has a concave cross-sectional shape. Accordingly, the side color of the pixel PX and the display device 10 including the pixel PX can be adjusted and / or improved.

[0222] refer to Figure 13 and Figure 14 The second color filter CF2 may have a convex cross-sectional shape including a central portion configured as an island in the emission region corresponding to the second color filter CF2 and an edge portion surrounding the central portion. For example, the central portion may be formed by an upper portion CF2B. The central portion formed by the upper portion CF2B may include outward-facing sidewalls. The sidewalls of the central portion formed by the upper portion CF2B may face the sidewalls of the edge portion of the second color filter CF2 disposed in the non-emission region NEA. For example, the upper portion CF2B may protrude in the height direction from the gap disposed between the upper portion CF2B and the edge portion of the second color filter CF2. In some embodiments, the height of the edge portion may be greater than the height of the second color filter CF2.

[0223] As described herein, according to embodiments, at least one color filter CF of the sub-pixel SPX can be formed to have a convex cross-sectional shape. For example, by providing a pattern PTN below at least one color filter CF, or by forming an upper portion (e.g., one of upper portions CF1B, CF2B, and CF3B) in at least one color filter CF, the central portion of at least one color filter CF can protrude in the height direction. Accordingly, the side brightness ratio and viewing angle of the pixel PX and the display device 10 including the pixel PX can be improved.

[0224] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional shapes of at least two color filters CF of the pixel PX can be distinguished. For example, the first color filter CF can be formed with a convex cross-sectional shape, and the second color filter CF can be formed with a concave cross-sectional shape. Accordingly, the side colors of the pixel PX and the display device 10 including the pixel PX can be appropriately adjusted and / or improved.

[0225] In concluding this detailed description, those skilled in the art will understand that many variations and modifications can be made to the embodiments without substantially departing from the aspects of this disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments of this utility model are to be used only in a general and descriptive sense, and not for limiting purposes.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: Light-emitting elements are arranged in the emission region of the sub-pixel; as well as A color filter is disposed on the light-emitting element and overlaps with the emitting region and the non-emitting region surrounding the emitting region. The first color filter in the color filter has a convex cross-sectional shape including an edge portion and a central portion disposed in the emission region corresponding to the first color filter, wherein the central portion has a height higher than the height of the edge portion, and At least two of the color filters have different cross-sectional shapes.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The second color filter has a concave cross-sectional shape including an edge portion and a central portion disposed in the emission region corresponding to the second color filter, wherein the central portion of the second color filter has a lower height than the edge portion of the second color filter.

3. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: A light-transmitting pattern is disposed on the light-emitting element layer including the light-emitting element and below the first color filter.

4. The display device according to claim 3, wherein, The first color filter has a cross-sectional shape corresponding to the light-transmitting pattern, and The central portion of the first color filter overlaps with the light-transmitting pattern.

5. The display device according to claim 3, further comprising: The first emission area in the emission area includes the light-transmitting pattern disposed below the first color filter; as well as The second emission region within the emission region includes a second color filter disposed in the opening of the light-transmitting pattern.

6. The display device according to claim 5, wherein, The color filter disposed in the emission region corresponding to the opening in the light-transmitting pattern has a concave cross-sectional shape in which the height of the central portion disposed in each emission region is lower than the height of the edge portion.

7. The display device according to claim 3, further comprising: A touch sensing layer includes touch electrodes and an insulating layer, wherein the touch sensing layer is disposed between a color filter layer including the color filter and a light-emitting element layer.

8. The display device according to claim 7, wherein, The light-transmitting pattern is integral with the insulating layer, and The insulating layer protrudes below the first color filter to form the light-transmitting pattern.

9. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first color filter includes: The lower portion comprises a launch area within the launch area and a non-launch area surrounding the launch area; and The upper portion is disposed on a part of the lower portion in the emission area and protrudes from the lower portion in the height direction.

10. The display device according to claim 9, further comprising: A light-shielding layer is disposed in the non-emitting area surrounding the emitting area, on the light-emitting element layer including the light-emitting element. In the plan view, the upper portion of the first color filter is surrounded by and spaced apart from the light-shielding layer.

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