Display device

Abstract

Display device (DSP) equipped with: a base material (10), a first insulating layer (11) arranged on the base material (10), a first electrode (E1) arranged on the first insulating layer (11), a second insulating layer (12) arranged on the first insulating layer (11) and having an opening (OP) overlying the first electrode (E1), a first trench (T1) not overlying the first electrode (E1), a second trench (T2) positioned on the side of the opening (OP) facing away from the first trench (T1), a first surface (121) between the opening (OP) and the first trench (T1), and a second surface (122) between the opening (OP) and the second trench (T2), an organic layer (OR) comprising a light-emitting layer (EL), and a second electrode (E2) covering the organic layer (OR), where the organic layer (OR) comprises: a first portion (OR1) arranged in the opening (OP) and covering the first electrode (E1), a second section (OR2) arranged on the first surface (121), a third section (OR3) arranged in the first trench (T1) and spaced from the second section (OR2), a fourth section (OR4) arranged on the second surface (122), and a fifth section (OR5) arranged in the second trench (T2) and spaced from the fourth section (OR4), wherein the second insulating layer (12) further comprises a first side surface (SS1) and a second side surface (SS2) of the first trench (T1), and the second insulating layer (12) further comprises a third side surface (SS3) and a fourth side surface (SS4) of the second trench (T2), the second side surface (SS2) is opposite the first side surface (SS1), the third side surface (SS3) is connected to the second surface (122), the fourth side surface (SS4) is opposite the third side surface (SS3), the third section (OR3) is arranged on the second side surface (SS2) and is in contact with the bottom surface (B1) of the first trench (T1), the fifth section (OR5) is arranged on the fourth side surface (SS4) and is in contact with the bottom surface (B2) of the second trench (T2), and the second electrode (E2) is in contact with the first side surface (SS1) and the third side surface (SS3) and the second electrode (E2) covers the third section (OR3) and fifth section (OR5).

Description

Area

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a display device. background

[0002] In recent years, display devices using an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) as a display element have been widely used. The display device is provided with an organic layer between a pixel electrode and a common electrode. In addition to a light-emitting layer, the organic layer includes functional layers such as a hole-transport layer and an electron-transport layer. This organic layer is formed, for example, by a vacuum deposition process.

[0003] For example, when an organic layer is formed by stacking multiple functional layers, the end faces of the functional layers are not aligned at the edge portion of the organic layer, which may result in performance degradation of the display device.

[0004] Patent publication US 2017 / 0 278 919 A1 discloses a display device comprising a base, an organic light-emitting element having a stacked structure including a first electrode layer, an organic light-emitting layer, and a second electrode layer stacked in order on the base, a driving element provided on the base and driving the organic light-emitting element, and an auxiliary electrode layer provided on the base and having an end surface in contact with the second electrode layer.

[0005] The present invention is defined by the appended claims. In the following, portions of the description and drawings that refer to prior embodiments, which do not necessarily include all features for implementing embodiments of the claimed invention, are understood not to represent embodiments of the invention, but to refer to examples useful for understanding embodiments of the invention. BRIEF EXPLANATION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 shows a design example of a display device DSP according to a present embodiment. Fig. Figure 2 shows an example of the layout of subpixels encompassed by the pixel PX. Fig. Figure 3 shows another example of the layout of subpixels encompassed by the pixel PX. Fig. 4 is a sectional view showing an example of a display element 20. Fig. 5 is a sectional view showing another example of the display element 20 not covered by the scope of protection. Fig. 6 is a plan view showing a first example of the shape of a trench. Fig. Figure 7 is a plan view showing a second example of the trench shape. Fig. Figure 8 is a plan view showing a third example of the trench shape. Fig. Figure 9 is a plan view showing a fourth form example of the trench. Fig. 10 is a plan view showing the fifth form example of the trench. Fig. 11 is a sectional view showing a first structural example. Fig. 12 is a sectional view showing a second structural example. Fig. 13 is a sectional view showing a third structural example. Fig. 14 is a sectional view showing a fourth structural example. Fig. 15 is a sectional view showing a fifth structural example. Fig. 16 is a sectional view showing a sixth structural example. Fig. 17 is a sectional view showing a first modification example not covered by the scope of protection. Fig. 18 is a sectional view showing a second modification example not covered by the scope of protection. Fig. 19 is a sectional view showing another example of the display element 20 not covered by the scope of protection. DETAILED EXPLANATION

[0006] A display device according to one embodiment may be provided with, among other things: a base material, a first insulating layer arranged on the base material, a first electrode arranged on the first insulating layer, a second insulating layer arranged on the first insulating layer and an opening overlying the first electrode, a first trench not overlying the first electrode and having a first surface between the opening and the first trench, an organic layer comprising a light-emitting layer, and a second electrode covering the organic layer, wherein the organic layer has a first portion arranged in the opening and covering the first electrode, a second portion arranged on the first surface, and a third portion arranged in the first trench and spaced from the second portion.

[0007] A display device according to a further embodiment may be provided, among other things, with: a base material, a first insulating layer arranged on the base material, a first electrode arranged on the first insulating layer, a second insulating layer arranged on the first insulating layer, and an opening overlying the first electrode, a first trench not overlying the first electrode and having a first area between the opening and the first trench, a second trench positioned on the opposite side of the first trench over the opening and having a second area between the opening and the second trench, an organic layer comprising a light-emitting layer, and a second electrode covering the organic layer, wherein the organic layer has a first portion arranged in the opening and covering the first electrode, a second portion,which is arranged on the first surface, and has a third portion arranged in the first trench and spaced from the second portion, a fourth portion arranged on the second surface, and a fifth portion arranged in the second trench and adjacent to the fourth portion.

[0008] In the following, embodiments of the present invention will be explained with reference to the drawings.

[0009] The disclosure is merely an example, and the subject matter which is readily apparent to those skilled in the art while maintaining the gist of the invention is naturally included within the scope of the present invention. To further clarify the explanation, the drawings may further schematically show the width, thickness, shape, etc. of each portion in comparison with the actual shape, but this is merely an example and does not limit the interpretation of the present invention. In the present description and the respective drawings, the components which perform the same or similar functions as those with reference to the previously mentioned drawings are denoted by the same reference numerals, and overlapping detailed explanations may be omitted as appropriate.

[0010] For ease of understanding, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis, which are orthogonal to each other, are indicated in the drawings as needed. The direction along the X-axis is called the X-direction or first direction; the direction along the Y-axis is called the Y-direction or second direction; and the direction along the Z-axis is called the Z-direction or third direction. The plane defined by the X-axis and Y-axis is called the XY plane, and the plane defined by the X-axis and Z-axis is called the XZ plane. The view from the XY plane is called a plan view.

[0011] The display device DSP according to the present embodiments is an organic electroluminescence display device provided with an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) as a display element, and is installed in a television, a personal computer, a mobile terminal, a mobile phone, etc.

[0012] Fig. Figure 1 shows a configuration example of a display device DSP according to a present embodiment. The display device DSP is provided with a display section DA for displaying images on an insulating base material 10. The base material 10 can be glass or a resin film with compliance.

[0013] The display section DA is provided with a plurality of pixels PX arranged in a matrix along a first direction X and a second direction Y. The pixel PX is provided with a plurality of subpixels SP1, SP2, SP3. In one example, the pixel PX is provided with a red subpixel SP1, a green subpixel SP2, and a blue subpixel SP3. It is also possible for the pixel PX to be provided with four or more subpixels, in which, in addition to the subpixels of the above three colors, subpixels of other colors, such as white, are also added.

[0014] An example of the formation of a subpixel SP in a pixel PX is briefly explained below.

[0015] The subpixel SP is provided with a pixel circuit 1 and a display element 20 controlled by the pixel circuit 1. The pixel circuit 1 is provided with a pixel switch 2, a drive transistor 3, and a capacitor 4. The pixel switch 2 and the drive transistor 3 are switching elements, which consist, for example, of thin-film transistors.

[0016] In the pixel switch 2, the gate electrode is connected to a scanning line GL, the source electrode is connected to a signal line SL, and the drain electrode is connected to one electrode forming the capacitor 4 and the gate electrode of the drive transistor 3. In the drive transistor 3, the source electrode is connected to the other electrode forming the capacitor 4 and a power line PL, and the drain electrode is connected to the anode of the display element 20. The cathode of the display element 20 is connected to a power line FL. The configuration of the pixel circuit 1 is not limited to the example shown in the drawings.

[0017] The display element 20 is an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) as a light-emitting element. For example, subpixel SP1 is provided with a display element that emits light corresponding to a red wavelength, subpixel SP2 is provided with a display element that emits light corresponding to a green wavelength, and subpixel SP3 is provided with a display element that emits light corresponding to a blue wavelength. The configuration of the display element 20 will be explained later.

[0018] Fig. Figure 2 shows an example of the layout of subpixels encompassed by the pixel PX. Here, the four pixels PX, which are separated by the dotted line in Fig. 1 are taken into consideration.

[0019] The subpixels SP1, SP2, and SP3 constituting a single pixel PX are formed in substantially rectangular shapes, each extending in the second direction Y, and are arrayed in the first direction X. Considering the two pixels PX arrayed in the first direction X, the emission colors of the adjacent subpixels are different from each other. Considering the two pixels PX arrayed in the second direction Y, the emission colors of the adjacent subpixels are the same. The area of ​​each of the subpixel SP1, subpixel SP2, and subpixel SP3 may be the same or different from each other.

[0020] Fig. Figure 3 shows another example of the layout of subpixels encompassed by the pixel PX.

[0021] The subpixel SP1 and the subpixel SP2 forming a single pixel PX are aligned in the second direction Y, the subpixel SP1 and the subpixel SP3 are aligned in the first direction X, and the subpixel SP2 and the subpixel SP3 are aligned in the first direction X. The subpixel SP1 is formed in a substantially rectangular shape extending in the first direction X, and the subpixel SP2 and the subpixel SP3 are formed in a substantially rectangular shape extending in the second direction Y. The area of ​​the subpixel SP2 is larger than the area of ​​the subpixel SP1, and the area of ​​the subpixel SP3 is larger than the area of ​​the subpixel SP2. The area of ​​the subpixel SP1 may be the same as the area of ​​the subpixel SP2.

[0022] When the two pixels PX lined up in the first direction X are considered, the emission colors of the adjacent subpixels are different from each other in a region where the subpixel SP1 and the subpixel SP3 are alternately arranged and in the region where the subpixel SP2 and the subpixel SP3 are alternately arranged.

[0023] Considering the two pixels PX arrayed in the second direction Y, in an area where subpixel SP1 and subpixel SP2 are alternately arranged, the emission colors of the adjacent subpixels are different from each other. In an area where multiple subpixels SP3 are arrayed, the emission colors of the adjacent subpixels are the same.

[0024] The Fig. 2 and Fig. The outer shape of each subpixel shown in Fig. 3 corresponds to the outer shape of the first electrode of the display element or a light-emitting region of the display element, but is shown in a simplified form and does not necessarily correspond to the actual shape.

[0025] Fig. 4 is a sectional view showing an example of the display element 20.

[0026] An insulating layer (first insulating layer) 11 is arranged on the base material 10. The Fig. The pixel circuit 1 shown in Figure 1 is arranged on the base material 10 and covered by the insulating layer 11, the illustration of which is omitted here. The insulating layer 11 corresponds to a base layer of the display element 20 and is, for example, an organic insulating layer.

[0027] An insulating layer (second insulating layer) 12 is disposed on the insulating layer 11. The insulating layer 12 is, for example, an organic insulating layer. The insulating layer 12 is formed to divide the display element 20 or the subpixel and can be referred to as a rib, partition wall, etc.

[0028] The display element 20 is provided with a first electrode E1, an organic layer OR, and a second electrode E2. The first electrode E1 is an electrode arranged for each subpixel or display element and may be referred to as a pixel electrode, lower electrode, anode, etc. The second electrode E2 is an electrode arranged commonly for multiple subpixels or multiple display elements and may be referred to as a common electrode, counter electrode, upper electrode, cathode, etc.

[0029] The first electrode E1 is arranged on the insulating layer 11 and is covered at its edge portion by the insulating layer 12. The first electrode E1 is electrically connected to the Fig. 1. The first electrode E1 is a transparent electrode made of a transparent, conductive material such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO). The first electrode E1 may also be a metal electrode made of a metallic material such as silver or aluminum. The first electrode E1 may also be a stack of the transparent electrode and the metal electrode. The first electrode E1 may, for example, be formed as a stack in which a transparent electrode, a metal electrode, and a transparent electrode are stacked in this order, or may also be formed as a stack of three or more layers.

[0030] The organic layer OR is arranged on the first electrode E1. The organic layer OR comprises a light-emitting layer EL in the Fig. In the example shown in Figure 4, the organic layer OR further includes functional layers F1, F2. The functional layer F1, the light-emitting layer EL, and the functional layer F2 are stacked in order from the first electrode E1 side. The functional layers F1, F2 include, for example, a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, a hole blocking layer, an electron injection layer, an electron transport layer, and an electron blocking layer, but may also be other functional layers. Each of the functional layers F1, F2 shown in the drawings is not limited to a single layer and may also be a stack in which multiple functional layers are stacked. At least one of the functional layers F1, F2 may also be omitted.

[0031] The second electrode E2 covers the organic layer OR. The second electrode E2 is a transparent electrode formed of a transparent conductive material such as ITO or IZO. The second electrode E2 is electrically connected to a power line arranged in the display section DA or to a power line arranged outside the display section DA. The second electrode E2 may be covered with a transparent protective film (including at least one inorganic or organic insulating film).

[0032] If the potential of the first electrode E1 is relatively higher than that of the second electrode E2, the first electrode E1 corresponds to the anode and the second electrode E2 to the cathode. Even if the potential of the second electrode E2 is relatively higher than that of the first electrode E1, the second electrode E2 corresponds to the anode and the first electrode E1 to the cathode.

[0033] For example, when the first electrode E1 corresponds to the anode, the functional layer F1 between the light-emitting layer EL and the first electrode E1 comprises at least one of the hole injection layer and the hole transport layer, and the functional layer F2 between the light-emitting layer EL and the second electrode E2 comprises at least one of the electron transport layer and the electron injection layer.

[0034] The insulating layer 12 is explained in more detail here.

[0035] The insulating layer 12 has an opening OP, a first trench T1, a second trench T2, a first surface 121 and a second surface 122.

[0036] The opening OP is a through hole formed in a region superimposed on the first electrode E1 and penetrating the insulating layer 12 to the first electrode E1. As mentioned above, the peripheral portion of the first electrode E1 is covered by the insulating layer 12, and a central portion of the first electrode E1 is exposed from the insulating layer 12 in the opening OP.

[0037] The first trench T1 and the second trench T2 are formed in a region that does not overlie the first electrode E1. The second trench T2 is positioned on the opposite side of the first trench T1 above the opening OP in the first direction X. In the Fig. 4, each of the first trench T1 and the second trench T2 does not penetrate the insulating layer 12, but can penetrate the insulating layer 12 to the insulating layer 11.

[0038] The first surface 121 corresponds to the surface of the insulating layer 12 between the opening OP and the first trench T1. This first surface 121 comprises a right slope S1 of the illustrated opening OP and an upper surface U1 adjoining the slope S1.

[0039] The second surface 122 corresponds to the surface of the insulating layer 12 between the opening OP and the second trench T2. This second surface 122 comprises a left slope S2 of the illustrated opening OP and an upper surface U2, which adjoins the slope S2. The upper surface U1 and the upper surface U2 are, for example, flat surfaces, but can also be curved surfaces.

[0040] In the first trench T1, the insulating layer 12 has a first side surface SS1, a second side surface SS2, and a bottom surface B1. The first side surface SS1 and the second side surface SS2 are spaced apart in the first direction X. The first side surface SS1 adjoins the first surface 121 (or the upper surface U1). The first trench T1 corresponds to a space enclosed by the first side surface SS1, the second side surface SS2, and the bottom surface B1. If the slope of the first side surface SS1 is compared with that of the slope S1, the first side surface SS1 is steeper than the slope S1.

[0041] The distance D1 between the first side surface SS1 and the second side surface SS2 at the upper part of the first trench T1 is greater than the distance D2 between the first side surface SS1 and the second side surface SS2 at the lower part of the first trench T1. That is, the first trench T1 is formed such that the width decreases along the first direction X toward the bottom surface B1.

[0042] In the second trench T2, the insulating layer 12 has a third side surface SS3, a fourth side surface SS4, and a bottom surface B2. The third side surface SS3 and the fourth side surface SS4 are spaced apart in the first direction X. The third side surface SS3 adjoins the second surface 122 (or the upper surface U2). The second trench T2 corresponds to a space enclosed by the third side surface SS3, the fourth side surface SS4, and the bottom surface B2. If the slope of the third side surface SS3 is compared with the slope S2, the third side surface SS3 is steeper than the slope S2.

[0043] Similar to the first trench T1, the second trench T2 is formed such that the width decreases along the first direction X towards the bottom surface B2.

[0044] Next, the organic layer OR is explained.

[0045] The organic layer OR has a first section OR1, a second section OR2, a third section OR3, a fourth section OR4, and a fifth section OR5. These first section OR1, second section OR2, third section OR3, fourth section OR4, and fifth section OR5 comprise a light-emitting layer EL of the same color.

[0046] The first section OR1 is arranged in the opening OP and covers the first electrode E1. The second electrode E2 is stacked on the first section OR1. The first section OR1 is positioned between the first electrode E1 and the second electrode E2 and can therefore form the light-emitting region of the display element 20.

[0047] The second section OR2 is arranged on the first surface 121. The second section OR2 adjoins the first section OR1. In the Fig. In the example shown in Figure 4, the second portion OR2 is formed continuously across the slope S1 and the top surface U1, but may be discontinuous in the middle. For a portion of the second portion OR2 positioned in the extension of the first side surface SS1, the end faces of each of the functional layer F1, the light-emitting layer EL, and the functional layer F2 are substantially aligned. The second electrode E2 is stacked on the second portion OR2 and covers the respective end faces of the functional layer F1, the light-emitting layer EL, and the functional layer F2.

[0048] This second section OR2 emits hardly any light since it is positioned between the insulating layer 12 and the second electrode E2.

[0049] The third section OR3 is arranged in the first trench T1 and is spaced apart from the second section OR2. Fig. 4, the third section OR3 is arranged on the second side surface SS2 in the first trench T1, but is barely on the first side surface SS1, which adjoins the first surface 121. The third section OR3 can further be arranged on a part of the bottom surface B1, but it is also possible for it to be barely arranged on the bottom surface B1. The third section OR3 is in contact with the second side surface SS2, but other thin layers can also be located between the second side surface SS2 and the third section OR3. The second electrode E2 covers the third section OR3.

[0050] This third section OR3 does not emit light because it is positioned between the insulating layer 12 and the second electrode E2 and is completely separated from the first section OR1. Since the third section OR3 does not contribute to light emission, the second electrode E2 can cover not only the entire third section OR3, as explained above, but also a portion of the third section OR3, or the second electrode E2 covering the third section OR3 can be omitted. Furthermore, the second electrode E2 can also be interrupted between the pixel in question and a neighboring pixel.

[0051] The second electrode E2 is arranged on the first side surface SS1 between the second section OR2 and the third section OR3 without the mediation of the organic layer OR. The second electrode E2 is in contact with the first side surface SS1, but other thin layers may also be located between the first side surface SS1 and the second electrode E2. The second electrode E2 is further in contact with at least part of the bottom surface B1, but other thin layers may also be located between the bottom surface B1 and the second electrode E2. When the first trench T1 penetrates to the insulating layer 11, the second electrode E2 is in contact with the insulating layer 11, but other thin layers may be located between the insulating layer 11 and the second electrode E2.

[0052] The fourth section OR4 is arranged on the second surface 122. The fourth section OR4 adjoins the first section OR1. In the Fig. In the example shown in Figure 4, the fourth section OR4 is formed continuously across the slope S2 and the upper surface U2, but may be discontinuous in the middle. For a section of the fourth section OR4 positioned in the extension of the third side surface SS3, the end faces of each of the functional layer F1, the light-emitting layer EL, and the functional layer F2 are substantially aligned. The second electrode E2 is stacked on the fourth section OR4 and covers the respective end faces of the functional layer F1, the light-emitting layer EL, and the functional layer F2.

[0053] This fourth section OR4 emits hardly any light because it is positioned between the insulating layer 12 and the second electrode E2.

[0054] The fifth section OR5 is arranged in the second trench T2 and spaced from the fourth section OR4. Fig. In the example shown in Figure 4, the fifth section OR5 is arranged on the fourth side surface SS4 in the second trench T2, but barely on the third side surface SS3, which adjoins the second surface 122. The fifth section OR5 can be arranged on a part of the bottom surface B2, but it is also possible for it to be barely arranged on the bottom surface B2. The fifth section OR5 is in contact with the fourth side surface SS4, but other thin layers can also be located between the fourth side surface SS4 and the fifth section OR5. The second electrode E2 covers the fifth section OR5.

[0055] This fifth section OR5 does not emit light because it is positioned between the insulating layer 12 and the second electrode E2 and is completely separated from the first section OR1. Since the fifth section OR5 does not contribute to light emission, the second electrode E2 can cover not only the entire fifth section OR5, as explained above, but also a portion of the fifth section OR5, or the second electrode E2 covering the fifth section OR5 can be omitted. Furthermore, the second electrode E2 can also be interrupted between the pixel in question and a neighboring pixel.

[0056] The second electrode E2 is arranged on the third side surface SS3 between the fourth section OR4 and the fifth section OR5 without the mediation of the organic layer OR. The second electrode E2 is in contact with the third side surface SS3, but other thin layers may also be located between the third side surface SS3 and the second electrode E2. The second electrode E2 is in contact with at least part of the bottom surface B2, but other thin layers may also be located between the bottom surface B2 and the second electrode E2. When the second trench T2 penetrates to the insulating layer 11, the second electrode E2 is in contact with the insulating layer 11, but other thin layers may be located between the insulating layer 11 and the second electrode E2.

[0057] Each of the layers forming this organic layer OR is formed, for example, by vacuum deposition processes. The way in which the organic material spreads radially from the deposition source to form the organic layer OR is represented by the dashed line in the drawing.

[0058] When the organic material is evaporated after the formation of the insulating layer 12 with the opening OP, the first trench T1 and the second trench T2, the second side surface SS2 and the fourth side surface SS4 are positioned on an introduction path of the organic material, while the first side surface SS1 and the third side surface SS3 are located outside the introduction path of the organic material.

[0059] Therefore, as in Fig. 4, the organic layer OR is formed on the second side surface SS2 and the fourth side surface SS4, while the organic layer OR is hardly formed on the first side surface SS1 and the third side surface SS3.

[0060] As explained above, the third portion OR3 of the organic layer OR, corresponding to the edge portion, is separated from the first portion OR1 contributing to light emission and the second portion OR2 adjoining the first portion OR1. The fifth portion OR5, corresponding to the edge portion of the organic layer OR, is further separated from the fourth portion OR4 adjoining the first portion OR1. Therefore, an undesirable leakage current (e.g., a defect in which a current flows between the first electrode E1 and the second electrode E2 via the functional layer F1 without passing through the light-emitting layer EL), etc., at the edge portion of the organic layer OR is suppressed, so that the performance deterioration of the display element 20 can be suppressed.

[0061] Fig. 5 is a sectional view showing another example of the display element 20. The Fig. The example shown in Figure 5 differs from the one in Fig. 4 shown example in the form of the organic layer OR.

[0062] The organic layer OR has a first section OR1, a second section OR2, a third section OR3, a fourth section OR4, a fifth section OR5, and a sixth section OR6. These first section OR1, second section OR2, third section OR3, fourth section OR4, fifth section OR5, and sixth section OR6 comprise a light-emitting layer EL of the same color. The second electrode E2 covers each of the first section OR1, second section OR2, third section OR3, fourth section OR4, fifth section OR5, and sixth section OR6.

[0063] The first section OR1 is arranged in the opening OP and covers the first electrode E1.

[0064] The second section OR2 is arranged on the first surface 121 and adjoins the first section OR1.

[0065] The third section OR3 is arranged in the first trench T1 and is spaced apart from the second section OR2. Fig. In the example shown in Figure 5, the third section OR3 is arranged on the second side surface SS2 in the first trench T1, but barely on the first side surface SS1, which adjoins the first surface 121. The third section OR3 can also be arranged on a part of the bottom surface B1, but it is also possible for it to be barely arranged on the bottom surface B1. The third section OR3 is in contact with the second side surface SS2, but other thin layers can also be located between the second side surface SS2 and the third section OR3.

[0066] The second electrode E2 is arranged on the first side surface SS1 between the second section OR2 and the third section OR3 without the mediation of the organic layer OR. The second electrode E2 is in contact with the first side surface SS1, but other thin layers may also be located between the first side surface SS1 and the second electrode E2. The second electrode E2 is further in contact with at least a part of the bottom surface B1, but other thin layers may also be located between the bottom surface B1 and the second electrode E2. When the first trench T1 penetrates to the insulating layer 11, the second electrode E2 is in contact with the insulating layer 11, but other thin layers may be located between the insulating layer 11 and the second electrode E2. Since the third section OR3 does not contribute to light emission, the second electrode E2 cannot only contact the entire third section OR3, as in Fig. 5, but also cover part of the third section OR3, or the second electrode E2 covering the third section OR3 may also be omitted. Furthermore, the second electrode E2 may also be interrupted between the pixel in question and a neighboring pixel.

[0067] The fourth section OR4 is arranged on the second surface 122 and adjoins the section OR1.

[0068] The fifth section OR5 is located in the second trench T2 and adjoins the fourth section OR4. Fig. In the example shown in Figure 5, the fifth section OR5 is arranged in the second trench T2 on the third side surface SS3, which adjoins the second surface 122, but not on the fourth side surface SS4. The fifth section OR5 can be arranged on a part of the bottom surface B2, but it is also possible for it to be barely arranged on the bottom surface B2. The fifth section OR5 is in contact with the third side surface SS3, but other thin layers can also be located between the third side surface SS3 and the fifth section OR5.

[0069] The sixth section OR6 is arranged on the upper surface U3 of the insulating layer 12. The second trench T2 is formed between the upper surface U2 and the upper surface U3. The sixth section OR6 is spaced apart from the fifth section OR5.

[0070] The second electrode E2 is arranged on the fourth side surface SS4 between the fifth section OR5 and the sixth section OR6 without the mediation of the organic layer OR. The second electrode E2 is in contact with the fourth side surface SS4, but other thin layers may also be located between the fourth side surface SS4 and the second electrode E2. The second electrode E2 is in contact with at least a part of the bottom surface B2, but other thin layers may also be located between the bottom surface B2 and the second electrode E2. When the second trench T2 penetrates to the insulating layer 11, the second electrode E2 is in contact with the insulating layer 11, but other thin layers may be located between the insulating layer 11 and the second electrode E2. Since the sixth section OR6 does not contribute to light emission, the second electrode E2 cannot only cover the entire sixth section OR6, as in Fig. 5, but also cover part of the sixth section OR6, or the second electrode E2 covering the sixth section OR6 may also be omitted. Furthermore, the second electrode E2 may also be interrupted between the pixel in question and a neighboring pixel.

[0071] Each of the layers that form this organic layer OR is formed as shown in the Fig. 4, for example, by the vacuum deposition method. However, the oblique evaporation method is used here, in which evaporation is carried out from a direction oblique to the normal of the base material 10. The directional introduction of the organic material for forming the organic layer OR from the evaporation source is represented by the dashed line in the drawing.

[0072] When the organic material is evaporated after the formation of the insulating layer 12 with the opening OP, the first trench T1 and the second trench T2, the second side surface SS2 and the third side surface SS3 are positioned on an introduction path of the organic material, while the first side surface SS1 and the fourth side surface SS4 are located outside the introduction path of the organic material.

[0073] Therefore, as in Fig. 5, the organic layer OR is formed on the second side surface SS2 and the third side surface SS3, while the organic layer OR is hardly formed on the first side surface SS1 and the fourth side surface SS4.

[0074] As explained above, the third portion OR3 of the organic layer OR, corresponding to the edge portion, is separated from the first portion OR1, which contributes to light emission, and the second portion OR2, which adjoins the first portion OR1. The sixth portion OR6, corresponding to the edge portion of the organic layer OR, is further separated from the fourth portion OR4, which adjoins the first portion OR1, and the fifth portion OR5. Therefore, undesirable leakage current, etc., at the edge portion is suppressed, so that the performance degradation of the display element 20 can be suppressed.

[0075] Next, shape examples of the trenches formed on the insulating layer 12 will be explained. In each of the examples explained below, the emission color of the subpixels SP11, SP12 is red (R), the emission color of the subpixels SP21, SP22 is green (G), the subpixels SP11, SP21 are aligned in the first direction X, the subpixels SP12, SP22 are aligned in the first direction X, the subpixels SP11, SP12 are aligned in the second direction Y, and the subpixels SP21, SP22 are aligned in the second direction. In each drawing, the first electrode RE1 constituting the display element and the red organic layer ROR are shown under the subpixels SP11, SP12, and the first electrode GE1 constituting the display element and the green organic layer GOR are shown under the subpixels SP21, SP22.

[0076] Fig. Figure 6 is a plan view showing an example of the first form of trench.

[0077] Trenches TY11 to TY14 each run along the second direction Y.

[0078] The trenches TY11, TY12 are formed continuously across the subpixels SP11, SP12. The first electrode RE1 of each subpixel SP11, SP12 is positioned between the trenches TY11, TY12.

[0079] The trenches TY13 and TY14 are formed continuously across the subpixels SP21 and SP22. The first electrode GE1 of each subpixel SP21 and SP22 is positioned between the trenches TY13 and TY14.

[0080] Trenches TX11 to TX14 run along the first direction X and intersect to form trenches TY11 to TY14.

[0081] The trenches TX11, TX12 are formed continuously across the subpixels SP11, SP21. The first electrode RE1 of the subpixel SP11 and the first electrode GE1 of the subpixel SP21 are positioned between the trenches TX11, TX12.

[0082] The trenches TX13, TX14 are formed continuously across the subpixels SP12, SP22. The first electrode RE1 of the subpixel SP12 and the first electrode GE1 of the subpixel SP22 are positioned between the trenches TX13, TX14.

[0083] Considering subpixel SP11, the first electrode RE1 is surrounded by trenches TY11, TY12, and trenches TX11, TX12. For example, trench TY11 corresponds to the first trench T1 above, trench TY12 to the second trench above, trench TX11 to the third trench adjoining trenches TY11, TY12, and trench TX12 to the fourth trench adjoining trenches TY11, TY12. In plan view, trenches TY11, TY12 and trenches TX11, TX12 do not overlap the first electrode RE1.

[0084] The region where the organic layer ROR is formed extends to the outside of the trenches TY11, TY12, and also to the outside of the trenches TX11, TX12. In at least one of the trenches TY11, TY12, TX11, and TX12, the organic layer ROR is separated into a portion that contributes to light emission and a peripheral portion. Therefore, performance degradation of the display device is suppressed.

[0085] In the other subpixels SP12, SP21, and SP22, the organic layer extends to the outside of the four trenches surrounding the first electrode, as in subpixel SP11. In at least one of the trenches, the organic layer is separated into the portion contributing to the display and the edge portion. Therefore, performance degradation of the display device is suppressed in each subpixel.

[0086] Fig. Figure 7 is a plan view showing a second example of the trench shape.

[0087] Compared with the first shape example, the second shape example differs in that the trench extending in the first direction X and the trench extending in the first direction Y are each formed discontinuously, and the trenches of each subpixel are formed in a loop shape. The trench T11 of the subpixel SP11 surrounds the first electrode RE1, the trench T12 of the subpixel SP12 surrounds the first electrode RE1, the trench T21 of the subpixel SP21 surrounds the first electrode GE1, and the trench T22 of the subpixel SP22 surrounds the first electrode GE1. The trenches T11, T12, T21, and T22 are spaced apart from each other.

[0088] Considering subpixel SP11, the region where the organic layer ROR is formed extends to the outside of trench T11. In at least part of trench T11, the organic layer ROR is separated into the portion contributing to the display and the edge portion. The same applies to the other subpixels SP12, SP21, and SP22 as to subpixel SP11. Consequently, the same effect as in the first shape example can be achieved in this second shape example.

[0089] Fig. Figure 8 shows a top view of the third example of the trench shape.

[0090] The third shape example differs from the first shape example in that the groove between the subpixels arrayed in the second direction Y is omitted. For example, none of the grooves crossing between subpixel SP11 and subpixel SP12, and between subpixel SP21 and subpixel SP22, are formed. However, a groove TX extending in the first direction X is formed at the outermost edge portion. The groove TX is continuously formed to connect the grooves TY11 to TY14, but may be discontinuous between the groove TY12 and the groove TY13.

[0091] The organic layer ROR is arranged over the subpixels SP11, SP12. From the region in which the organic layer ROR is formed, both ends extend along the first direction X outside the trenches TY11, TY12, and one end extends along the second direction Y outside the trench TX.

[0092] The organic layer GOR is arranged over the subpixels SP21, SP22. From the region where the organic layer GOR is formed, two ends extend along the first direction X outside the trenches TY13, TY14, and one end extends along the second direction Y outside the trench TX. The other end extends along the second direction Y of the organic layer ROR, which is not shown here, and the other end extends along the second direction Y of the organic layer GOR also extend outside the trench.

[0093] In this third form example, the same effect as in the first form example can be achieved.

[0094] Fig. Figure 9 is a plan view showing a fourth form example of the trench.

[0095] Compared to the first shape example, the fourth shape example differs in that the two grooves between adjacent subpixels are replaced by a single groove. For example, groove TX12 is formed between subpixel SP11 and subpixel SP12 and between subpixel SP21 and subpixel SP22. Groove TY12 is formed between subpixel SP11 and subpixel SP21 and between subpixel SP12 and subpixel SP22.

[0096] Considering subpixel SP11, the first electrode RE1 is surrounded by trenches TY11, TY12, and trenches TX11, TX12. The edge of the organic layer ROR is positioned at trenches TY11, TY12, and at trenches TX11, TX12.

[0097] In this fourth form example, the same effect as in the first form example can be achieved.

[0098] Fig. 10 is a plan view showing the fifth form example of the trench.

[0099] Compared to the third shape example, the fifth shape example differs in that the two grooves between the adjacent subpixels are replaced by a single groove. For example, groove TY12 is formed between subpixel SP11 and subpixel SP21, and between subpixel SP12 and subpixel SP22. In the fifth shape example, as in the third shape example, no grooves are formed crossing between the subpixels arranged in the second direction Y.

[0100] In this fifth form example, the same effect as in the first form example can be achieved.

[0101] The examples of the first to fifth forms explained here are also applied to subpixels with blue (B) emission color. The performance degradation of the respective display elements with red, green, and blue emission colors is suppressed.

[0102] Next, examples of cut structures across two subpixels with different emission colors will be explained. In the drawings corresponding to the examples explained below, only the main part is illustrated, and the lower layer of the insulating layer 11 and the upper layer of the organic layer OR are omitted. Each example shows a cut structure across the red subpixel SP11 and the green subpixel SP21 aligned in the first direction X. The subpixel SP11 is provided with the first electrode RE1 and the organic layer ROR, while the subpixel SP21 is provided with the first electrode GE1 and the organic layer GOR.

[0103] Fig. Fig. 11 is a sectional view showing a first structural example. In the first structural example, for example, two trenches TY12, TY13 are formed between the first electrode RE1 and the first electrode GE1, as in the first shape example in Fig. 6.

[0104] The organic layer ROR is disposed on the first electrode RE1 and also on the insulating layer 12 and is separated in the trench TY12. Specifically, the third section OR3 is disposed on the side surface SS12 in the trench TY12, but not on the side surface SS11. This means that at least a portion of the side surface SS11 is exposed from the organic layer ROR, and the third section OR3 of the organic layer ROR is spaced apart from the second section OR2.

[0105] The organic layer GOR is disposed on the first electrode GE1 and also on the insulating layer 12 and is separated in the trench TY13. Specifically, the fifth section OR5 is disposed on the side surface SS21 in the trench TY13, but not on the side surface SS22. This means that at least a portion of the side surface SS22 is exposed from the organic layer GOR, and the fifth section OR5 of the organic layer GOR is spaced apart from the fourth section OR4.

[0106] The fifth section OR5 of the organic layer GOR is spaced from the third section OR3 of the organic layer ROR, but the two may be in contact with each other.

[0107] These organic layers ROR and GOR are formed when the organic material is radially evaporated, as described with reference to Fig. 4 explained.

[0108] Fig. Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a second structural example. In the second structural example, the organic layer ROR is separated in the trench TY12, as in the first structural example.

[0109] The organic layer GOR is separated at trench TY13. Specifically, the fifth section OR5 adjoins the fourth section OR4 and is arranged on the side surface SS22 in trench TY13, but not on the side surface SS21. This means that at least a portion of the side surface SS21 is exposed from the organic layer GOR, and the sixth section OR6 of the organic layer GOR is spaced apart from the fifth section OR5.

[0110] These organic layers ROR and GOR are formed by the oblique evaporation method as described with reference to Fig. 5 explained.

[0111] Fig. Fig. 13 is a sectional view showing a third structural example. In the third structural example, for example, a trench TY12 is formed between the first electrode RE1 and the first electrode GE1, as in the fourth shape example in Fig. 9.

[0112] The organic layer ROR is separated in the trench TY12. Specifically, the third section OR3 is arranged on the bottom surface B12 of the trench TY12, but not on the side surface SS11. This means that at least a portion of the side surface SS11 is exposed from the organic layer ROR, and the third section OR3 of the organic layer ROR is spaced apart from the second section OR2.

[0113] The organic layer GOR is separated in the trench TY12. Specifically, the fifth section OR5 is located on the bottom surface B12, but not on the side surface SS12. This means that at least a portion of the side surface SS12 is exposed from the organic layer GOR, and the fifth section OR5 of the organic layer GOR is spaced apart from the fourth section OR4.

[0114] In the above first to third structural examples, cases are explained in which a trench is formed on the insulating layer 12, but the trench may be replaced by a protrusion P. By arranging the protrusion P having the same shape as the above trench on the insulating layer 12, the same effect as forming a trench can be achieved. As a shape example of the protrusion P in plan view, any of the shape examples of the trenches described with reference to FIG. Fig. 6 to 10 explained.

[0115] Fig. Fig. 14 is a sectional view showing a fourth structural example. The insulating layer 12 between the first electrode RE1 and the first electrode GE1 has no trench. The protrusions P1, P2 are arranged on the insulating layer 12. The protrusions P1, P2 each have a substantially triangular cross section. These protrusions P1, P2 can be formed, for example, by the Fig. 6 and Fig. 8 shown trenches TY12, TY13 and by the Fig. 7 shown trenches T11, T21 are replaced.

[0116] The organic layer ROR is disposed on both the first electrode RE1 and the insulating layer 12 and is separated at the protrusion P1. Specifically, the third portion OR3 is positioned between the protrusion P1 and the protrusion P2 and is disposed on the insulating layer 12, but not on the side surface SS11 of the protrusion P1. That is, at least a portion of the side surface SS11 is exposed from the organic layer ROR, and the third portion OR3 of the organic layer ROR is spaced apart from the second portion OR2.

[0117] The organic layer GOR is disposed on both the first electrode GE1 and the insulating layer 12 and separated at the protrusion P2. Specifically, the fifth portion OR5 is positioned between the protrusion P1 and the protrusion P2 and disposed on the insulating layer 12, but not on the side surface SS12 of the protrusion P2. That is, at least a portion of the side surface SS12 is exposed from the organic layer GOR, and the fifth portion OR5 of the organic layer GOR is spaced apart from the fourth portion OR4.

[0118] Fig. 15 is a sectional view showing a fifth structural example. A protrusion P is disposed on the insulating layer 12. The protrusion P has a substantially trapezoidal cross section.

[0119] This projection P can be achieved, for example, by the Fig. 9, Fig. 10. The following explanation assumes that the organic layer GOR is formed after the organic layer ROR.

[0120] The organic layer ROR is disposed on both the first electrode RE1 and the insulating layer 12 and separated at the protrusion P. Specifically, the second portion OR2 is disposed on the side surface SS12 of the protrusion P. The third portion OR3 is disposed on the insulating layer 12 between the protrusion P and the first electrode GE1, but not on the side surface SS11 of the protrusion PD h., at least a part of the side surface SS11 is exposed from the organic layer ROR and the third portion OR3 of the organic layer ROR is spaced from the second portion OR2.

[0121] The organic layer GOR is disposed on both the first electrode GE1 and the insulating layer 12 and is separated at the protrusion P. Specifically, the fourth portion OR4 covers the third portion OR3 of the organic layer ROR and is disposed on the side surface SS11 of the protrusion P. The fifth portion OR5 is disposed on the second portion OR2 of the organic layer ROR, but not on the side surface SS12 of the protrusion PD h., At least a part of the side surface SS12 is exposed from the organic layer GOR, and the fifth portion OR5 of the organic layer GOR is spaced from the fourth portion OR4.

[0122] Fig. 16 is a sectional view showing a sixth structural example. Compared with the fifth structural example, the sixth structural example differs in that the protrusion P has a substantially triangular cross section.

[0123] The organic layer ROR is disposed on both the first electrode RE1 and the insulating layer 12 and separated at the protrusion P. Specifically, the organic layer ROR is divided into a second portion OR2 positioned between the protrusion P and the first electrode RE1, and a third portion OR3 positioned between the protrusion P and the first electrode GE1.

[0124] The organic layer GOR is disposed on both the first electrode GE1 and the insulating layer 12 and is separated at the protrusion P. Specifically, the organic layer GOR is divided into a fourth portion OR4 positioned between the protrusion P and the first electrode GE1, and a fifth portion OR5 positioned between the protrusion P and the first electrode RE1.

[0125] In these first to sixth structural examples, each of the organic layers ROR and GOR is separated into a portion contributing to the display and an edge portion, and the performance deterioration of the display element is suppressed.

[0126] The first to sixth structural examples are also applied to subpixels with blue (B) emission color. That is, the organic layer BOR, which emits blue light, is also separated into a portion contributing to the display and a peripheral portion, and the performance degradation of the display element is suppressed.

[0127] Next, the modification examples are explained.

[0128] Fig. 17 is a sectional view showing a first modification example.

[0129] Compared to the Fig. The first modification differs from the example shown in Figure 4 in that the supply line FL is arranged directly below the first trench T1 and the second trench T2. The supply line FL is arranged on the insulating layer 11 and is formed, for example, from the same material as the first electrode E1. The first trench T1 and the second trench T2 each penetrate to the supply line FL. That is, each of the supply lines FL is positioned on the bottom surface of the first trench T1 and the second trench T2.

[0130] The second electrode E2 is in contact with the supply lines FL in the first trench T1 and the second trench T2. This allows a predetermined potential to be supplied to the second electrode E2 from the supply line FL.

[0131] Fig. 18 is a sectional view showing a second modification example.

[0132] Compared to the Fig. The second modified example differs from the example shown in Figure 5 in that the supply line FL is arranged directly beneath the first trench T1 and the second trench T2. The second electrode E2 is in contact with the supply lines FL in the first trench T1 and the second trench T2. This allows a predetermined potential to be supplied to the second electrode E2 from the supply line FL.

[0133] In the first and second modifications, the supply line FL is arranged directly under both the first trench T1 and the second trench T2. However, the supply line FL may also be arranged directly under the first trench T1 or the second trench T2. In the case where the first trench T1 and the second trench T2 do not penetrate to the insulating layer 11, the supply line FL may be arranged on the bottom surface of the first trench T1 and the second trench T2 formed in the insulating layer 12.

[0134] Fig. 19 is a sectional view showing another example of the display element 20.

[0135] In the Fig. In the example shown in Figure 19, the organic layers (including the light-emitting layer EL and the functional layers F1, F2) OR are arranged together over the adjacent subpixels. For example, the organic layer OR comprising the light-emitting layer EL of the same color is arranged over the subpixels SP31, SP32 adjacent in the first direction X. Likewise, the organic layer OR comprising the light-emitting layer EL of the same color is also arranged over the subpixels adjacent in the second direction Y. More specifically, in all subpixels SP of the display section DA, organic layers OR comprising light-emitting layers EL of the same color are arranged. D.., which in Fig. The example shown in Figure 19 is suitable for the DSP display device with a monochromatic display. For example, if the emission color of each display element 20 is white, a multicolor display can be realized by arranging color filters opposite the display element 20. If the emission color of each display element 20 is ultraviolet light, a multicolor display can be realized by arranging a light conversion layer opposite the display element 20.

[0136] The first trench T1 is formed on the insulating layer 12 between the first electrode E31 of the subpixel SP31 and the first electrode E32 of the subpixel SP32. The organic layer OR is separated in the first trench T1 into an organic layer OR31 located in the subpixel SP31 and an organic layer OR32 located in the subpixel SP32.

[0137] The organic layer OR31 is barely arranged on the first side surface SS1 of the first trench T1.

[0138] The organic layer OR32 is arranged on the second side surface SS2 of the first trench T1, but barely on the first side surface SS1. The second electrode E2, which covers the organic layers OR31, OR32, is arranged on the first side surface SS1 without the mediation of the organic layer OR.

[0139] When applying the provisions of Fig. In the oblique evaporation process explained in Figure 5, the organic OR layers are separated in the trench between the adjacent subpixels in the same way as explained above. This suppresses crosstalk between the adjacent subpixels.

[0140] According to the above-mentioned present embodiments, it is possible to provide a display device that can suppress performance deterioration of the display element.

[0141] It is also understood that other effects brought about by the aspects explained in the above-mentioned embodiments are of course brought about by the present invention if they are apparent from the description of the present specification or can be derived by the person skilled in the art according to the circumstances.

Claims

[1] Display device (DSP) equipped with: a base material (10), a first insulating layer (11) arranged on the base material (10), a first electrode (E1) arranged on the first insulating layer (11), a second insulating layer (12) arranged on the first insulating layer (11) and having an opening (OP) overlying the first electrode (E1), a first trench (T1) not overlying the first electrode (E1), a second trench (T2) positioned on the side of the opening (OP) facing away from the first trench (T1), a first surface (121) between the opening (OP) and the first trench (T1), and a second surface (122) between the opening (OP) and the second trench (T2), an organic layer (OR) comprising a light-emitting layer (EL), and a second electrode (E2) covering the organic layer (OR), where the organic layer (OR) comprises: a first portion (OR1) arranged in the opening (OP) and covering the first electrode (E1), a second section (OR2) arranged on the first surface (121), a third section (OR3) arranged in the first trench (T1) and spaced from the second section (OR2), a fourth section (OR4) arranged on the second surface (122), and a fifth section (OR5) arranged in the second trench (T2) and spaced from the fourth section (OR4), wherein the second insulating layer (12) further comprises a first side surface (SS1) and a second side surface (SS2) of the first trench (T1), and the second insulating layer (12) further comprises a third side surface (SS3) and a fourth side surface (SS4) of the second trench (T2), the second side surface (SS2) is opposite the first side surface (SS1), the third side surface (SS3) is connected to the second surface (122), the fourth side surface (SS4) is opposite the third side surface (SS3), the third section (OR3) is arranged on the second side surface (SS2) and is in contact with the bottom surface (B1) of the first trench (T1), the fifth section (OR5) is arranged on the fourth side surface (SS4) and is in contact with the bottom surface (B2) of the second trench (T2), and the second electrode (E2) is in contact with the first side surface (SS1) and the third side surface (SS3) and the second electrode (E2) covers the third section (OR3) and fifth section (OR5). [2] A display device (DSP) according to claim 1, wherein the first section (OR1), the second section (OR2) and the third section (OR3) comprise the light-emitting layer (EL) having the same color. [3] A display device (DSP) according to claim 1, wherein the distance between the first side surface (SS1) and the second side surface (SS2) at the upper part of the first trench (T1) is greater than the distance between the first side surface (SS1) and the second side surface (SS2) at the lower part of the first trench (T1). [4] A display device (DSP) according to claim 1, wherein the second insulating layer (12) further comprises: a third trench (TX11) and a fourth trench (TX12) which do not overlie the first electrode (E1), wherein the third trench (TX11) and the fourth trench (TX12) are respectively connected to the first trench (T1) and the second trench (T2), and in the plan view, the fourth trench (TX12) is positioned on the side of the first electrode (E1) facing away from the third trench (TX11). [5] The display device (DSP) according to claim 1, wherein the organic layer (OR) further comprises at least one of a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, an electron injection layer, and an electron transport layer.

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