Display panel and electronic apparatus including the same

Abstract

To provide a display panel with improved light efficiency.SOLUTION: A display panel includes: a base substrate comprising a pixel circuit; a pixel electrode arranged on the base substrate; an intermediate layer arranged on the pixel electrode and comprising luminescent material; a color filter arranged on the intermediate layer and comprising phase delaying material delaying the phase of light made incident; and a polarization layer arranged on the color filter and comprising a plurality of grid patterns separated from each other at a predetermined interval.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a display panel. More specifically, the present invention relates to a display panel and an electronic device including the same.

Background Art

[0002] As information technology develops, the importance of a display device, which is a connection medium between a user and information, is increasing.

[0003] In recent years, a head mounted display (HMD) including such a display device has been developed. A head mounted display is a glasses-type monitor device of virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) that is worn in the form of glasses, a helmet, etc., and a focus is formed near the user's eyes. The head mounted display can provide the video displayed on the display device to the user's eyes via a lens.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] An object of the present invention is to provide a display panel with improved light efficiency.

[0005] Another object of the present invention is to provide an electronic device including the display panel.

[0006] However, the object of the present invention is not limited to the above content, and can be variously extended without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] To achieve the above-described object of the present invention, a display panel according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a base substrate including a pixel circuit, a pixel electrode disposed on the base substrate, an intermediate layer disposed on the pixel electrode and including a light-emitting substance, a color filter disposed on the intermediate layer and including a phase retardation substance that delays the phase of incident light, and a polarizing layer disposed on the color filter and including a plurality of grid patterns spaced apart from each other at a predetermined interval.

[0008] The phase retardation substance included in the color filter may include a polymer of a reactive mesogen.

[0009] The color filter has a retardation axis, and can delay light in the direction of the retardation axis to convert linearly polarized light into circularly polarized light or convert circularly polarized light into linearly polarized light.

[0010] The color filter may include a coloring material.

[0011] The coloring material included in the color filter may be an isotropic coloring material.

[0012] The isotropic coloring material may be a coloring material in which the absorption rate for polarization parallel to the major axis direction of the molecular structure and the absorption rate for polarization perpendicular to the major axis direction are substantially the same.

[0013] The two-color ratio of the color filter may be less than 1.2.

[0014] The in-plane retardation of the color filter may be from 100 nm to 450 nm.

[0015] In the absorption spectrum of the color filter with respect to light in the wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm, the absorption value of the color filter may exceed 0 and be 2 or less.

[0016] The display panel further includes a partition wall that defines an opening, and the color filter may be disposed in the opening defined by the partition wall.

[0017] The difference between the height from the upper surface of the base substrate to the lower surface of the polarizing layer and the height from the upper surface of the base substrate to the upper surface of the pixel electrode may be less than 3.8 μm.

[0018] The display panel has a first pixel region where light is emitted at a first principal ray axis angle and a second pixel region where light is emitted at a second principal ray axis angle greater than the first principal ray axis angle. On the cross-section of the second pixel region, the horizontal separation distance between the center of the upper surface of the pixel electrode and the center of the upper surface of the color filter may be greater than the horizontal separation distance between the center of the upper surface of the pixel electrode and the center of the upper surface of the color filter on the cross-section of the first pixel region.

[0019] The second pixel region may be located closer to the outer contour than the first pixel region.

[0020] The grid pattern may be a metal pattern including a metal substance.

[0021] The intermediate layer may have a structure in which at least two or more light-emitting layers are stacked.

[0022] The intermediate layer may emit white light.

[0023] The base substrate may be at least one of a silicon wafer containing silicon and a sapphire substrate containing sapphire.

[0024] The display panel may further include a plurality of microlenses disposed on the color filter layer, a planarization layer disposed on the microlenses and covering the microlenses, and a cover window disposed on the planarization layer.

[0025] To achieve the other objects of the present invention described above, an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a display panel and an optical member disposed on the optical path of light emitted from the display panel and including a lens portion. The display panel includes a base substrate including a pixel circuit, a pixel electrode disposed on the base substrate, an intermediate layer disposed on the pixel electrode and including a light-emitting substance, a color filter disposed on the intermediate layer and including a phase retardation substance that delays the phase of incident light and a coloring material, and a polarizing layer disposed on the color filter and including a plurality of grid patterns spaced apart from each other at a predetermined interval.

[0026] The phase retardation substance provided in the color filter includes a polymer of a reactive mesogen, and the coloring material provided in the color filter may be an isotropic coloring material.

[0027] The color filter has a retardation axis and can delay light in the direction of the retardation axis to convert linearly polarized light into circularly polarized light or convert circularly polarized light into linearly polarized light.

[0028] The display panel further includes a partition wall that defines an opening, and the color filter may be disposed within the opening defined by the partition wall.

Advantages of the Invention

[0029] In the display panel according to the present invention, the display panel includes a color filter including a phase retardation substance and a polarizing layer disposed on the color filter and including a grid pattern. Thereby, a part of the light emitted from the light-emitting element can be reused. In this case, another polarizing plate is not disposed on the display panel. That is, the color filter and the polarizing layer can replace the polarizing plate. Thereby, the light efficiency of the display panel can be improved.

[0030] In addition, since the color filter contains the phase retardation substance, it is not necessary to dispose another phase retardation plate between the color filter and the polarizing layer. That is, the color filter can replace the phase retardation plate. As a result, the distance in the thickness direction between the pixel electrode of the light emitting element and the polarizing layer is reduced. Therefore, the reuse efficiency of the light emitted from the light emitting element can be improved.

[0031] However, the effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and can be variously extended without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0032]

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[0033] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. For the same components in the drawings, the same reference numerals will be given, and duplicate explanations regarding the same components will be omitted.

[0034] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a display panel according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 1, a display panel (DP) according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a display area (DA) and a peripheral area (PA).

[0036] The display area (DA) is an area for displaying an image. The planar shape of the display area (DA) is rectangular. However, the planar shape of the display area (DA) is not limited to this, and the display area (DA) may have various other planar shapes other than a rectangle.

[0037] The peripheral area (PA) is an area where an image is not displayed. The peripheral area (PA) is disposed around the display area (DA). For example, the peripheral area (PA) surrounds the display area (DA) as a whole. In one embodiment, a driving portion for image display of the display area (DA) is disposed in the peripheral area (PA).

[0038] The display area (DA) includes a plurality of pixel areas. The pixel areas are arranged in a matrix along a first direction (DR1) and a second direction (DR2) intersecting the first direction (DR1). For example, the pixel areas include a first pixel area (PX1), a second pixel area (PX2), and a third pixel area (PX3).

[0039] Each of the first pixel region (PX1), the second pixel region (PX2), and the third pixel region (PX3) means a region where the light emitted from the light-emitting element is emitted from the outside of the display panel (DP). For example, the first pixel region (PX1) emits the first light, the second pixel region (PX2) emits the second light, and the third pixel region (PX3) emits the third light. In one embodiment, the first light is red light, the second light is green light, and the third light is blue light. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0040] The display panel (DP) has a rectangular planar shape. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the display panel (DP) may have various other planar shapes of a rectangle.

[0041] In one embodiment, the display panel (DP) is an ultra-small light-emitting diode display panel (or micro light-emitting diode display panel) including an ultra-small light-emitting diode (or micro light-emitting diode) as a light-emitting element. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0042] In this specification, a plane can be defined in a first direction (DR1) and a second direction (DR2). For example, the first direction (DR1) can be perpendicular to the second direction (DR2). The third direction (DR3) can be the normal direction of the plane. That is, the third direction (DR3) can be orthogonal to the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2).

[0043] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing an example taken along the line I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 2, the display panel (DP) may include a base substrate (SUB), a light-emitting element (LD), a sealing layer (TFE), a partition wall (BM), a first color filter (CF1), a second color filter (CF2), a third color filter (CF3), a polarizing layer (WGP), a microlens (MLS), a planarization layer (OC), and a cover window (CW). The light-emitting element (LD) may include a pixel electrode (PE), an intermediate layer (ML), and a common electrode (CE).

[0045] The base substrate (SUB) may be a semiconductor circuit substrate. The base substrate (SUB) includes a pixel circuit (PXC). The pixel circuit (PXC) may include various driving elements, wirings, etc. for driving the light-emitting element (LD). For example, the pixel circuit (PXC) includes transistors, capacitors, gate wirings, data wirings, etc. The pixel circuit (PXC) may be disposed in each of the first to third pixel regions (PX1, PX2, PX3).

[0046] In one embodiment, the base substrate (SUB) is a silicon wafer substrate containing silicon. Alternatively, the base substrate (SUB) is a sapphire substrate containing sapphire. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the base substrate (SUB) may contain various other substances such as silicon and sapphire.

[0047] The pixel electrode (PE) is disposed on the base substrate (SUB). The pixel electrode (PE) is disposed in each of the first to third pixel regions (PX1, PX2, PX3). For example, the pixel electrode (PE) is disposed on the pixel circuit (PXC). The pixel electrode (PE) is electrically connected to the pixel circuit (PXC). For example, the pixel electrode (PE) is electrically connected to the pixel circuit (PXC) by a conductive connection pattern.

[0048] The pixel electrode (PE) may include a metal, an alloy, a metal nitride, a conductive metal oxide, a transparent conductive substance, etc. These may be used alone or in combination with each other. In one embodiment, the pixel electrode (PE) may be an anode electrode. Also, the pixel electrode (PE) may be a reflective electrode.

[0049] On the other hand, although not shown in the figures, an insulating layer may be further disposed between the pixel electrode (PE) and the base substrate (SUB).

[0050] An intermediate layer (ML) may be disposed on the base substrate (SUB) and the pixel electrode (PE). In one embodiment, the intermediate layer (ML) may contain a substance that emits light. For example, the intermediate layer (ML) may emit white light. The structure of the intermediate layer (ML) will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5 below.

[0051] A common electrode (CE) may be disposed on the intermediate layer (ML). The common electrode (CE) may continuously extend across the first to third pixel regions (PX1, PX2, PX3). For example, the common electrode (CE) may include a metal, an alloy, a metal nitride, a conductive metal oxide, a transparent conductive substance, etc. These may be used alone or in combination with each other. In one embodiment, the common electrode (CE) may be a cathode electrode. Also, the common electrode (CE) may be a transmissive or semi-transmissive electrode.

[0052] The intermediate layer (ML) may emit light based on the voltage difference between the pixel electrode (PE) and the common electrode (CE).

[0053] FIGS. 3 to 5 are diagrams schematically showing various examples of the intermediate layer included in the light-emitting element of FIG. 2.

[0054] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5, various structures of the intermediate layer (ML) will be described.

[0055] First, as shown in FIG. 3, in one embodiment, the intermediate layer (ML) includes a first auxiliary layer (AL1), a light-emitting layer (EML), and a second auxiliary layer (AL2).

[0056] The first auxiliary layer (AL1) is disposed between the pixel electrode (PE) and the light-emitting layer (EML). The first auxiliary layer (AL1) is a charge auxiliary layer for adjusting the injection and / or mobility of charges. The first auxiliary layer (AL1) has a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure including a plurality of layers. For example, the first auxiliary layer (AL1) is a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, an electron blocking layer, an electron injection layer, an electron transport layer, a hole blocking layer, or a combination thereof.

[0057] The light-emitting layer (EML) contains a light-emitting substance. In one embodiment, the light-emitting layer (EML) emits white light. For example, the light-emitting layer (EML) may contain light-emitting substances that emit lights of different colors, and the lights emitted by the light-emitting substances may be combined to emit white light. The light-emitting substance contained in the light-emitting layer (EML) can be an organic light-emitting substance, an inorganic light-emitting substance, or a combination thereof.

[0058] The second auxiliary layer (AL2) is disposed between the light-emitting layer (EML) and the common electrode (CE). The second auxiliary layer (AL2) is a charge auxiliary layer for adjusting the injection and / or mobility of charges. The second auxiliary layer (AL2) has a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure including a plurality of layers. For example, the second auxiliary layer (AL2) is a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, an electron blocking layer, an electron injection layer, an electron transport layer, a hole blocking layer, or a combination thereof.

[0059] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, in one embodiment, the intermediate layer (ML) has a structure in which at least two or more light-emitting layers are stacked. That is, the light-emitting device (LD) is a tandem-structured light-emitting device.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 4, in one embodiment, the intermediate layer (ML) includes a first auxiliary layer (AL1), a first light-emitting layer (EMLa), a charge generation layer (CGL), a second light-emitting layer (EMLb), and a second auxiliary layer (AL2).

[0061] The first auxiliary layer (AL1) and the second auxiliary layer (AL2) are as described in FIG. 3.

[0062] The first light-emitting layer (EMLa) is disposed between the first auxiliary layer (AL1) and the charge generation layer (CGL), and the second light-emitting layer (EMLb) is disposed between the charge generation layer (CGL) and the second auxiliary layer (AL2). The first light-emitting layer (EMLa) and the second light-emitting layer (EMLb) contain a light-emitting substance. The first light-emitting layer (EMLa) and the second light-emitting layer (EMLb) emit light of the same or different colors from each other. Thereby, the intermediate layer (ML) emits white light obtained by mixing the light emitted from the first light-emitting layer (EMLa) and the light emitted from the second light-emitting layer (EMLb). For example, the first light-emitting layer (EMLa) emits blue light, and the second light-emitting layer (EMLb) emits green light. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the colors of the light emitted by each of the first light-emitting layer (EMLa) and the second light-emitting layer (EMLb) can be variously changed. The light-emitting substances contained in each of the first light-emitting layer (EMLa) and the second light-emitting layer (EMLb) are organic light-emitting substances, inorganic light-emitting substances, and combinations thereof.

[0063] The charge generation layer (CGL) is disposed between the first light-emitting layer (EMLa) and the second light-emitting layer (EMLb). The charge generation layer (CGL) injects charges into the first light-emitting layer (EMLa) and / or the second light-emitting layer (EMLb). The charge generation layer (CGL) can adjust the charge balance between the first light-emitting layer (EMLa) and the second light-emitting layer (EMLb). For example, the charge generation layer (CGL) includes an n-type semiconductor layer and a p-type semiconductor layer, and contains an electron transport substance and / or a hole transport substance containing an n-type dopant and / or a p-type dopant. The charge generation layer (CGL) has a single-layer structure or a multilayer structure in which a plurality of layers are stacked.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 5, in one embodiment, the intermediate layer (ML) includes a first auxiliary layer (AL1), a first light-emitting layer (EMLa), a first charge generation layer (CGLa), a second light-emitting layer (EMLb), a second charge generation layer (CGLb), a third light-emitting layer (EMLc), and a second auxiliary layer (AL2).

[0065] The first auxiliary layer (AL1) and the second auxiliary layer (AL2) are as described with reference to Figure 3.

[0066] The first light-emitting layer (EMLa) is disposed between the first auxiliary layer (AL1) and the first charge generation layer (CGLa), the second light-emitting layer (EMLb) is disposed between the first charge generation layer (CGLa) and the second charge generation layer (CGLb), and the third light-emitting layer (EMLc) is disposed between the second charge generation layer (CGLb) and the second auxiliary layer (AL2).

[0067] The first light-emitting layer (EMLa), the second light-emitting layer (EMLb), and the third light-emitting layer (EMLc) contain a light-emitting substance. The first light-emitting layer (EMLa), the second light-emitting layer (EMLb), and the third light-emitting layer (EMLc) emit light of the same or different colors from each other. Thereby, the intermediate layer (ML) emits white light obtained by mixing the light emitted from the first light-emitting layer (EMLa), the light emitted from the second light-emitting layer (EMLb), and the light emitted from the third light-emitting layer (EMLc). For example, the first light-emitting layer (EMLa), the second light-emitting layer (EMLb), and the third light-emitting layer (EMLc) emit blue light. For example, the first light-emitting layer (EMLa) and the third light-emitting layer (EMLc) emit blue light, and the second light-emitting layer (EMLb) emits green light. For example, the first light-emitting layer (EMLa) and the third light-emitting layer (EMLc) emit green light, and the second light-emitting layer (EMLb) emits blue light. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the color of the light emitted by each of the first light-emitting layer (EMLa), the second light-emitting layer (EMLb), and the third light-emitting layer (EMLc) can be variously changed. The light-emitting substances contained in each of the first light-emitting layer (EMLa), the second light-emitting layer (EMLb), and the third light-emitting layer (EMLc) are organic light-emitting substances, inorganic light-emitting substances, and combinations thereof.

[0068] The first charge generation layer (CGLa) is disposed between the first light-emitting layer (EMLa) and the second light-emitting layer (EMLb). The first charge generation layer (CGLa) injects charges into the first light-emitting layer (EMLa) and / or the second light-emitting layer (EMLb). The first charge generation layer (CGLa) can adjust charge balance between the first light-emitting layer (EMLa) and the second light-emitting layer (EMLb). For example, the first charge generation layer (CGLa) includes an n-type semiconductor layer and a p-type semiconductor layer, and includes an electron transport material and / or a hole transport material containing an n-type dopant and / or a p-type dopant. The first charge generation layer (CGLa) has a single-layer structure or a multilayer structure in which a plurality of layers are stacked.

[0069] The second charge generation layer (CGLb) is disposed between the second light-emitting layer (EMLb) and the third light-emitting layer (EMLc). The second charge generation layer (CGLb) injects charges into the second light-emitting layer (EMLb) and / or the third light-emitting layer (EMLc). The second charge generation layer (CGLb) can adjust charge balance between the second light-emitting layer (EMLb) and the third light-emitting layer (EMLc). For example, the second charge generation layer (CGLb) includes an n-type semiconductor layer and a p-type semiconductor layer, and includes an electron transport material and / or a hole transport material containing an n-type dopant and / or a p-type dopant. The second charge generation layer (CGLb) has a single-layer structure or a multilayer structure in which a plurality of layers are stacked.

[0070] On the other hand, the structure of the intermediate layer (ML) described in FIGS. 3 to 5 is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited thereto, and can be set variously. For example, the intermediate layer (ML) can also include four or more light-emitting layers.

[0071] Also, in one embodiment, the structure of the intermediate layer (ML) can be individually set for each of the first to third pixel regions (PX1, PX2, PX3). That is, the structures of the light-emitting elements (LD) in the first pixel region (PX1), the second pixel region (PX2), and the third pixel region (PX3) are the same as or different from each other.

[0072] Referring again to FIG. 2, a sealing layer (TFE) is disposed on the common electrode (CE). The sealing layer (TFE) includes at least one inorganic sealing layer and at least one organic sealing layer. The sealing layer (TFE) can prevent foreign substances from penetrating into the light-emitting element (LD).

[0073] A partition wall (BM) is disposed on the sealing layer (ENC). The partition wall (BM) defines (defines) a first pixel region (PX1), a second pixel region (PX2), and the third pixel region (PX3). That is, the partition wall (BM) defines (defines) a plurality of openings (OP) that partition the first pixel region (PX1), the second pixel region (PX2), and the third pixel region (PX3).

[0074] In one embodiment, the partition wall (BM) includes a light-shielding substance. Examples of the light-shielding substance that can be used as the partition wall (BM) include organic substances and / or inorganic substances containing black pigments, black dyes, etc. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the partition wall (BM) can also include a reflective substance such as a metal substance. Thereby, the partition wall (BM) can prevent color mixing between the first to third pixel regions (PX1, PX2, PX3).

[0075] The first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) are disposed in the openings (OP) defined by the partition wall (BM). The first color filter (CF1) is disposed in the first pixel region (PX1), the second color filter (CF2) is disposed in the second pixel region (PX2), and the third color filter (CF3) is disposed in the third pixel region (PX3).

[0076] Each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) selectively transmits only light of a specific wavelength and absorbs light of the remaining wavelengths. For example, the first color filter (CF1) selectively transmits red light, the second color filter (CF2) selectively transmits green light, and the third color filter (CF3) selectively transmits blue light. As a result, red light is emitted from the first pixel region (PX1), green light is emitted from the second pixel region (PX2), and blue light is emitted from the third pixel region (PX3). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0077] Each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) contains a phase retardation material. The phase retardation material delays the phase of light incident on each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3).

[0078] In one embodiment, the phase retardation material included in the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) includes a polymer of a reactive mesogen. The reactive mesogen is a mesogen including a reaction group that induces polymerization by light or heat, for example, a polymerizable functional group. Here, the mesogen is a compound of a meso phase that exhibits behavior on a liquid crystal when the reactive mesogen is polymerized. Further, the polymerizable functional group is a functional group having reactivity with respect to heat or light that induces polymerization of a liquid crystal compound.

[0079] In one embodiment, the reactive mesogen is a mesogen having two or more polymerizable functional groups, for example, having a structure of Formula 1 or Formula 2 below.

[0080] [Formula 1] B-Cn-A-Cn-B

[0081] [Formula 2] B-A-Cn-A-B

[0082] In Formula 1 and Formula 2, B represents a polymerizable functional group, A represents a mesogenic group, and Cn represents a linking group.

[0083] Here, the linking group links the polymerizable functional group and the mesogenic group. For example, the linking group is -(D-E) n - in the form, D is a linear or branched alkylene group having 1 to 12 carbon atoms, E is oxygen or a salt, and n is an integer of 1 to 5.

[0084] Examples of the polymerizable functional group include (meth)acrylate, (meth)acrylamide, acrylonitrile, styrene, an alkyl group, a cyano group, an alkoxide group, or a vinyl group. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and any functional group having reactivity to heat or light can be used.

[0085] Examples of the mesogenic group include a calamitic (rod-shaped) mesogenic group or a discotic (disc-shaped) mesogenic group.

[0086] The rod-shaped mesogenic group is rod-shaped and includes one or more aromatic or aliphatic rings linked in one direction, and is a mesogenic group that forms a rod-shaped liquid crystal structure when polymerized. Further, one or more functional groups are included at the end or side surface of the rod shape in the rod-shaped mesogenic group.

[0087] The discotic mesogenic group is a mesogenic group having a planar core structure including one or more aromatic or aliphatic rings, and is a mesogenic group that forms a discotic liquid crystal structure when polymerized.

[0088] The polymer of the reactive mesogen forms a polymer network. That is, when the reactive mesogen is polymerized, a phase in which liquid crystals are aligned can be maintained, and a crosslinked polymer network can be formed. Since the polymer network has the properties such as optical anisotropy and dielectric constant of the liquid crystal as they are and has a solid-phase thin film shape, it is mechanically and thermally stable.

[0089] However, the phase retardation substances contained in the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) are not limited to the substances described above. Any substance can be applied as long as it is a substance that can be mixed with the colorant contained in the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) and delays the phase of the incident light.

[0090] For example, the phase retardation substance includes polyolefins such as polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP), cyclic olefin polymers (COP) such as polynorbornene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyacrylonitrile (PAN), polysulfone (PSU), acrylic resin, polycarbonate (PC), polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyacrylate, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), or cellulose ester polymers such as triacetyl cellulose (TAC), polystyrene, and copolymers of two or more monomers among the monomers forming these. These can be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0091] For example, the method for obtaining the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) containing the polymer substance is not particularly limited and can be obtained by stretching after forming the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) into a film shape. The method for forming into the film shape is not particularly limited.

[0092] By each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) containing the phase retardation material, the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) function as a phase retardation layer. That is, each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) has a retardation axis and provides a phase difference with respect to the retardation axis. For example, each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) delays the light in the retardation axis direction to convert linearly polarized light into circularly polarized light or convert circularly polarized light into linearly polarized light. Specifically, each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) provides a phase difference of λ / 4 or 3λ / 4. Thereby, each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) delays the light in the retardation axis direction by λ / 4 or 3λ / 4 to convert linearly polarized light into circularly polarized light or convert circularly polarized light into linearly polarized light. This will be described in more detail later with reference to FIG. 6.

[0093] Each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) contains a colorant. Examples of the colorant contained in the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) include known pigments and dyes.

[0094] In one embodiment, the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) contain colorants of different systems. For example, the first color filter (CF1) contains a colorant of the first color system, the second color filter (CF2) contains a colorant of the second color system, and the third color filter (CF3) contains a colorant of the third color system. In one embodiment, the first color is red, the second color is green, and the third color is blue. That is, the first color filter (CF1) contains a red-based colorant and selectively transmits red light. Also, the second color filter (CF2) contains a green-based colorant and selectively transmits green light. Also, the third color filter (CF3) contains a blue-based colorant and selectively transmits blue light. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0095] As a result, each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) includes the phase retardation material and the colorant. Therefore, the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) can not only change the color of the light emitted from the light-emitting element (LD), but also retard the phase of the incident light. Thereby, the display panel (DP) does not include another phase retardation plate. That is, the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) can replace the phase retardation plate.

[0096] On the other hand, the colorant included in the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) is an isotropic colorant. The isotropic colorant is a colorant in which the absorption rate for the polarization parallel to the major axis direction of the molecular structure and the absorption rate for the polarization perpendicular to the major axis direction are substantially the same. For example, the isotropic colorant is a colorant that does not have a rectangular molecular structure extending long in any one direction.

[0097] Specifically, the isotropic colorant is a colorant that does not exhibit dichroism when mixed with the phase retardation material. That is, the isotropic colorant realizes a low dichroic ratio in each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) by being mixed with the phase retardation material. Since the dichroism causes a decrease in light extraction efficiency, color sensation, phase retardation, etc., it is desirable that the dichroism does not appear in the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3).

[0098] In other words, even when each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) includes the phase retardation material and the colorant, since the colorant included in the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) is an isotropic colorant, dichroism does not appear in the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3). Therefore, the light extraction efficiency, color sensation, phase retardation, etc. of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) do not decrease.

[0099] In an embodiment, the dichroic ratio of each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) may be less than about 1.2. Specifically, the dichroic ratio of each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) may substantially fall within 1. Desirably, the dichroic ratio of each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) is 1. The dichroic ratio is obtained by the following Equation 1.

[0100] [Equation 1] DR = Log(1 / T ⊥ ) / Log(1 / T ∥ )

[0101] Here, DR is the dichroic ratio of each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3), and T ⊥ is the light transmittance of each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) with respect to the light incident perpendicularly to the transmission axis of each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3), and T ∥ is the light transmittance of each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) with respect to the light incident parallel to the transmission axis of each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3).

[0102] That is, in the embodiment, since the color materials included in the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) are isotropic color materials, dichroism does not occur in the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3). Therefore, the light extraction efficiency, color sensation, and phase delay of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) do not decrease.

[0103] Examples of the isotropic colorant include compounds having a molecular skeleton of a phthalocyanine - based compound, a tetra - aza - porphyrin (TAP) - based compound, a porphyrin - based compound, an anthraquinone - based compound, or a combination thereof. These can be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0104] In an embodiment, the in - plane retardation (Ro) of each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) is from about 100 nm to 450 nm, specifically from about 100 nm to 200 nm, and more specifically from about 100 nm to about 150 nm.

[0105] On the other hand, the in - plane retardation (Ro) is obtained by the following formula (2).

[0106] [Formula (2)] Ro = {|n x -n y |}×d

[0107] Here, n x is the refractive index in the uniaxial (x - axis) direction in the plane of the layer (i.e., the color filter (CF1, CF2, CF3)), n y is the refractive index in the other - axis (y - axis) direction orthogonal to the uniaxial direction in the plane of the layer, and d corresponds to the thickness of the layer. The retardation value indicates the value at a specific wavelength. For example, in this specification, the retardation value is the value at a wavelength of 550 nm.

[0108] When the in-plane retardation (R0) of each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) satisfies the above range, each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) has excellent retardation characteristics, and the uneven color problem caused by the retardation can also be prevented. That is, even when each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) contains the retardation substance and the colorant, each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) can exhibit retardation characteristics sufficient to replace the retardation plate. On the other hand, in this specification, the in-plane retardation (R0) is a value for light with a wavelength of about 550 nm.

[0109] Also, in the absorption spectrum for light in the wavelength range of about 380 nm to about 780 nm, the absorption value of each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) can exceed 0 and be about 2 or less. Specifically, the absorption value can be about 1 to 2.

[0110] The absorption value is determined from the absorption spectrum (or absorption spectroscopic analysis for light in the wavelength range of about 380 nm to about 780 nm) using a commercially available spectroscope (for example, Cary series of Agilent Technology, or products available from Shimadzu).

[0111] In the spectroscopic analysis, the absorption value is obtained by the following Equation 3.

[0112] [Equation 3] AV = Log(I0 / I)

[0113] Here, AV is the absorption value of each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3), I is the intensity after light of a specific wavelength passes through a sample (for example, any one of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3)), and I0 is the intensity before the light of the specific wavelength is incident on the sample.

[0114] When the absorption values of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) each satisfy the above range, the light transmitted through the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) exhibits excellent color perception. That is, even when each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) includes the retardation substance and the colorant, the color perception of the light transmitted through the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) and emitted through the first to third pixel regions (PX1, PX2, PX3) does not deteriorate.

[0115] A polarizing layer (WGP) is disposed on the partition wall (BM) and the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3). The polarizing layer (WGP) includes a plurality of grid patterns. The grid patterns are spaced apart from each other at a predetermined interval. For example, the grid patterns are spaced apart from each other in a first direction (DR1). In one embodiment, the grid pattern is a metal pattern including a metal substance. That is, the polarizing layer (WGP) is a wire grid polarizing layer.

[0116] Each of the grid patterns of the polarizing layer (WGP) extends along one direction (for example, a second direction (DR2)). For example, light incident perpendicularly to the extending direction of the polarizing layer (WGP) is transmitted through the polarizing layer (WGP). In contrast, light incident along the extending direction of the polarizing layer (WGP) is reflected by the polarizing layer (WGP). The polarizing layer (WGP) includes a metal substance having a relatively high reflectance. For example, examples of the metal substance used as the polarizing layer (WGP) include aluminum (Al), gold (Au), silver (Ag), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), and the like. These can be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0117] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the reused light generated in the display panel of FIG. 2.

[0118] Referring further to FIG. 6, with the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) and the polarizing layer (WGP), a part of the light emitted from the intermediate layer (ML) can be reused. As described above, since each of the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) can delay the phase of the incident light, a part of the light emitted from the intermediate layer (ML) is reused by the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) and the polarizing layer (WGP).

[0119] Hereinafter, the generation principle of the reused light will be described centering on the second pixel region (PX2). The generation principle of the reused light in the first pixel region (PX1) and the third pixel region (PX3) is the same as that in the second pixel region (PX2). Therefore, the corresponding description will be omitted.

[0120] On the other hand, in FIG. 6, the polarization characteristics of the first light (L1) emitted from the intermediate layer (ML) are only affected by the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) and the polarizing layer (WGP). In one example, as shown in FIG. 2, no other configuration is sandwiched between the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) and the polarizing layer (WGP), and the polarizing layer (WGP) is directly disposed on the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3). Also, in one example, even when other configurations are sandwiched between the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) and the polarizing layer (WGP), the other configurations may not affect the polarization characteristics of the first light (L1).

[0121] The first light (L1) emitted from the intermediate layer (ML) passes through the second color filter (CF2). The first light (L1) can have polarization characteristics in all directions. The first light (L1) that has passed through the second color filter (CF2) is incident on the polarization layer (WGP). The first linear polarization (LP1) in the first light (L1) incident on the polarization layer (WGP) passes through, and the second linear polarization (LP2) in the first light (L1) incident on the polarization layer (WGP) is reflected. The first linear polarization (LP1) is linearly polarized light in a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the grid pattern of the polarization layer (WGP), and the second linear polarization (LP2) is linearly polarized light in a direction aligned with the extending direction. The second linear polarization (LP2) reflected from the polarization layer (WGP) passes through the second color filter (CF2) and is converted into the first circular polarization (R). That is, the second color filter (CF2) has the retardation axis, delays the light in the direction of the retardation axis, and converts linear polarization into circular polarization. For example, the second color filter (CF2) provides a retardation of λ / 4 with respect to the light in the direction of the retardation axis. The first circular polarization (R) is right circular polarization.

[0122] The first circular polarization (R) is incident on the common electrode (CE), reflected by the common electrode (CE), and the phase is inverted by 180 degrees. That is, the first circular polarization (R) is converted into the second circular polarization (L). The second source polarization (L) is left circular polarization.

[0123] The second circular polarization (L) passes through the second color filter (CF2) and is converted into the third linear polarization (LP3). That is, the second color filter (CF2) delays the light in the direction of the retardation axis and converts circular polarization into linear polarization. For example, the second color filter (CF2) provides a retardation of λ / 4 with respect to the light in the direction of the retardation axis. As a result, the third linear polarization (LP3) is linearly polarized light in a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the grid pattern of the polarization layer (WGP). Thereby, the third linear polarization (LP3) is incident on the polarization layer (WGP) and passes through the polarization layer (WGP).

[0124] As a result, the display panel (DP) includes the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) containing the retardation material and the polarizing layer (WGP) having the grid pattern, so that a part of the light emitted from the intermediate layer (ML) can be reused. In this case, another polarizing plate is not disposed on the display panel (DP). That is, the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) and the polarizing layer (WGP) can replace the polarizing plate. Thereby, the light efficiency of the display panel (DP) can be improved.

[0125] On the other hand, as the distance between the pixel electrode (PE) and the polarizing layer (WGP) in the third direction (DR3) increases, the reuse efficiency of the light emitted from the intermediate layer (ML) decreases. In particular, the larger the pixel region is located near the outer portion of the display panel (DP), the larger the principal ray angle of the emitted light increases. Thereby, the reuse efficiency becomes lower. Therefore, the light efficiency of the display panel (DP) is relatively reduced, and luminance unevenness occurs for each pixel region.

[0126] According to an embodiment of the present invention, as described above, since the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) contain the retardation material, the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) can replace the retardation plate. Along with this, it is possible not to dispose a separate retardation plate between the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) and the polarizing layer (WGP). Along with this, the distance in the third direction (DR3) between the pixel electrode (PE) and the polarizing layer (WGP) can be reduced. Therefore, the reuse efficiency of the light emitted from the intermediate layer (ML) can be improved. In particular, by reducing the distance in the third direction (DR3) between the pixel electrode (PE) and the polarizing layer (WGP), the reuse efficiency of the pixel region located near the outer portion of the display panel (DP) can also be improved. Therefore, the light efficiency of the display panel (DP) is improved, and the luminance deviation for each pixel region of the display panel (DP) can be reduced or prevented. Therefore, the display quality of the display panel (DP) can be improved.

[0127] As shown in FIG. 2, in the embodiment, the difference between the height from the upper surface of the base substrate (SUB) to the lower surface of the polarization layer (WGP) and the height from the upper surface of the base substrate (SUB) to the upper surface of the pixel electrode (PE) can be less than about 3.8 μm. That is, the distance (HT) in the third direction (DR3) from the upper surface of the pixel electrode (PE) to the lower surface of the polarization layer (WGP) can be less than about 3.8 μm. In other words, by arranging another retardation plate without replacing the retardation plate with the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3), the distance (HT) in the third direction (DR3) from the upper surface of the pixel electrode (PE) to the lower surface of the polarization layer (WGP) can be smaller than about 3.8 μm.

[0128] Specifically, the distance (HT) in the third direction (DR3) from the upper surface of the pixel electrode (PE) to the lower surface of the polarization layer (WGP) can be from about 2.0 μm to about 3.0 μm. More specifically, the distance (HT) in the third direction (DR3) from the upper surface of the pixel electrode (PE) to the lower surface of the polarization layer (WGP) can be about 2.5 μm. Thereby, the light efficiency of the display panel (DP) can be further improved.

[0129] The microlens (MLS) is disposed on the polarization layer (WGP). The microlens (MLS) has a predetermined refractive index. For example, the microlens (MLS) has a refractive index of about 1.5 or more and about 1.7 or less. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. The microlens (MLS) can improve the light extraction efficiency.

[0130] The planarization layer (OC) can be disposed on the polarization layer (WGP) and the microlens (MLS). The planarization layer (OC) contains an organic substance and / or an inorganic substance. The planarization layer (OC) compensates for the step caused by the polarization layer (WGP) and / or the microlens (MLS).

[0131] A cover window (CW) can be disposed on the planarization layer (OC). The cover window (CW) includes tempered glass, reinforced plastic, etc. Optionally, the cover window (CW) can be formed of a single layer or have a structure in which a plurality of functional layers are laminated.

[0132] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing the pixel region of the display panel of FIG. 1, and FIG. 8 is a plan view showing the arrangement structure of the pixel electrode, color filter, and partition wall in the pixel region of FIG. 7.

[0133] Specifically, FIG. 7 selectively shows the cross-sectional structures of three second pixel regions (PX2, PX2a, PX2b) among the plurality of second pixel regions of the display panel (DP) with different distances from the central portion of the display panel (DP). That is, FIG. 8 shows, as optional, the planar arrangement structures of the respective pixel electrodes, color filters, and partition walls in the three second pixel regions (PX2, PX2a, PX2b) in FIG. 7.

[0134] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, among the three second pixel regions (PX2, PX2a, PX2b), the second pixel region located at the central portion is referred to as the second pixel region (PX2), the second pixel region farthest from the central portion is referred to as the second - 2 pixel region (PX2b), and the remaining one second pixel region is referred to as the second - 1 pixel region (PX2a). The second pixel region (PX2) corresponds to the second pixel region (PX2) in FIG. 2.

[0135] On the other hand, although FIGS. 7 and 8 only show, as optional, the structure of the second pixel region of the display panel (DP), the content described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8 can also be similarly applied to the first pixel region and the third pixel region. Therefore, the corresponding description is omitted.

[0136] Referring to FIGS. 1, 7, and 8, the second pixel region (PX2b) of the second row is located closer to the outer periphery of the display panel (DP) than the first pixel region (PX2a) of the second row and the second pixel region (PX2). Also, the first pixel region (PX2a) of the second row is located closer to the outer periphery of the display panel (DP) than the second pixel region (PX2). In other words, the second pixel region (PX2b) of the second row is located farther from the central portion of the display panel (DP) when viewed from the central portion of the display panel (DP) than the first pixel region (PX2a) of the second row and the second pixel region (PX2). Also, the first pixel region (PX2a) of the second row is located farther from the central portion of the display panel (DP) when viewed from the central portion of the display panel (DP) than the second pixel region (PX2).

[0137] The first main light (CL1) emitted from the second pixel region (PX2) can be emitted on the emission surface with substantially no variation in the optical path. That is, the light emitted from the second pixel region (PX2) can be emitted perpendicular to the emission surface at a main ray axis angle of 0 degrees.

[0138] The second main light (CL2) emitted from the first pixel region (PX2a) of the second row can be emitted at a first main ray axis angle (A1) with respect to the normal of the emission surface. That is, the second main light (CL2) can be emitted obliquely to the emission surface. Therefore, the first main ray axis angle (A1) of the light emitted from the first pixel region (PX2a) of the second row can be larger than the main ray axis angle of the light emitted from the second pixel region (PX2). As described above, the closer the pixel region is to the outer periphery of the display panel (DP), the larger the main ray axis angle of the emitted light. Thus, the first main ray axis angle (A1) can be larger than the main ray axis angle of the light emitted from the second pixel region (PX2).

[0139] The third main light (CL3) emitted from the second pixel region (PX2b) can be emitted while forming a second main light axis angle (A2) with respect to the normal line of the emission surface. That is, the second main light (CL2) can be emitted while being inclined with respect to the emission surface. Similarly, the closer the pixel region is to the outer periphery of the display panel (DP), the greater the main light axis angle of the emitted light. Accordingly, the second main light axis angle (A2) of the light emitted from the second pixel region (PX2b) can be greater than the first main light axis angle (A1) of the light emitted from the second pixel region (PX2a).

[0140] As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, on the cross-section of the second pixel region (PX2), the center (CN1) of the upper surface of the pixel electrode (PE) and the center (CN2) of the upper surface of the second color filter (CF2) can be aligned on a straight line. In contrast, on the cross-section of the second pixel region (PX2a), the center (CN1) of the upper surface of the pixel electrode (PE) and the center (CN2) of the upper surface of the second color filter (CF2) can be separated from each other in the horizontal direction (or the first direction (DR1)) by a first separation distance (X1). That is, the position of the second color filter (CF2) is relatively shifted, and on the cross-section of the second pixel region (PX2a), the center (CN1) of the upper surface of the pixel electrode (PE) and the center (CN2) of the upper surface of the second color filter (CF2) may not be aligned on a straight line. Also, on the cross-section of the second pixel region (PX2b), the center (CN1) of the upper surface of the pixel electrode (PE) and the center (CN2) of the upper surface of the second color filter (CF2) can be separated from each other in the horizontal direction (or the first direction (DR1)) by a second separation distance (X2). That is, the position of the second color filter (CF2) is relatively shifted, and on the cross-section of the second pixel region (PX2b), the center (CN1) of the upper surface of the pixel electrode (PE) and the center (CN2) of the upper surface of the second color filter (CF2) may not be aligned on a straight line.

[0141] Here, the larger the main optical axis angle of the emitted light is in the pixel region, the larger the isolation distance in the horizontal direction (or the first direction (DR1)) between the center (CN1) of the upper surface of the pixel electrode (PE) and the center (CN2) of the upper surface of the second color filter (CF2) may be on the cross section. In other words, the closer the pixel region is to the outer peripheral portion of the display panel (DP), the larger the isolation distance in the horizontal direction (or the first direction (DR1)) between the center (CN1) of the upper surface of the pixel electrode (PE) and the center (CN2) of the upper surface of the second color filter (CF2) may be on the cross section.

[0142] For example, on the cross section of the second pixel region (PX2), the center (CN1) of the upper surface of the pixel electrode (PE) and the center (CN2) of the upper surface of the second color filter (CF2) are aligned on a straight line, so the isolation distance may be substantially zero. In contrast, on the cross section of the second - 1 pixel region (PX2a), the center (CN1) of the upper surface of the pixel electrode (PE) and the center (CN2) of the upper surface of the second color filter (CF2) may be separated from each other by a predetermined first isolation distance (X1) greater than zero in the horizontal direction (or the first direction (DR1)). Also, on the cross section of the second - 2 pixel region (PX2b), the center (CN1) of the upper surface of the pixel electrode (PE) and the center (CN2) of the upper surface of the second color filter (CF2) may be separated from each other by a second isolation distance (X2) greater than the first isolation distance (X1) in the horizontal direction (or the first direction (DR1)).

[0143] That is, as shown in FIG. 8, the distance (d1) in the horizontal direction (or the first direction (DR1)) between the edge of the pixel electrode (PE) in the horizontal direction (or the first direction (DR1)) and the partition wall (BM) on the plan view of the second pixel region (PX2) is smaller than the distance (d1a) in the horizontal direction (or the first direction (DR1)) between the edge of the pixel electrode (PE) in the horizontal direction (or the first direction (DR1)) and the partition wall (BM) on the plan view of the 2-1 pixel region (PX2a). Also, the distance (d1a) in the horizontal direction (or the first direction (DR1)) between the edge of the pixel electrode (PE) in the horizontal direction (or the first direction (DR1)) and the partition wall (BM) on the plan view of the 2-1 pixel region (PX2a) is smaller than the distance (d1b) in the horizontal direction (or the first direction (DR1)) between the edge of the pixel electrode (PE) in the horizontal direction (or the first direction (DR1)) and the partition wall (BM) on the plan view of the 2-2 pixel region (PX2b).

[0144] As described above, the larger the main light axis angle of the emitted light in the pixel region located closer to the outer peripheral portion of the display panel (DP), the lower the reuse efficiency of the light emitted from the intermediate layer (ML).

[0145] According to an embodiment of the present invention, considering the magnitude of the angle of the main light axis of the emitted light, the degree of shifting the color filter can be made different for each pixel region. That is, the larger the pixel region with a large main light axis angle of the emitted light, the larger the degree of shifting the color filter can be made with respect to the center (CN1) of the upper surface of the pixel electrode (PE) so that the reuse efficiency of the light emitted from the intermediate layer (ML) does not decrease. Accordingly, by being located closer to the outer peripheral portion of the display panel (DP), it is possible that the reuse efficiency of the light emitted from the intermediate layer (ML) does not decrease even in the case of a pixel region having a relatively large main light axis angle. Therefore, the light efficiency of the display panel (DP) can be improved, and the luminance deviation can be reduced or prevented for each pixel region of the display panel (DP). Thus, the display quality of the display panel (DP) can be improved.

[0146] Figures 9 to 11 are cross-sectional views showing other examples taken along the line I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0147] The embodiment of the display panel (DP) described with reference to FIG. 9 is the same as the embodiment of the display panel (DP) described with reference to FIG. 2, except for the position of the polarizing layer (WGP). In the following, overlapping descriptions will be omitted or simplified.

[0148] As shown in FIG. 9, in one embodiment, the polarizing layer (WGP) is disposed on the cover window (CW). For example, the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3), microlenses (MLS), planarization layer (OC), cover window (CW), and polarizing layer (WGP) are sequentially disposed.

[0149] The embodiment of the display panel (DP) described with reference to FIG. 10 is the same as the embodiment of the display panel (DP) described with reference to FIG. 2, except that the microlenses (MLS) described with reference to FIG. 2 are omitted. In the following, overlapping descriptions will be omitted or simplified.

[0150] As shown in FIG. 10, in one embodiment, the microlenses (MLS, see FIG. 2) can be omitted. Also, the planarization layer (OC, see FIG. 2) can also be omitted. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the planarization layer (OC) can also be disposed between the polarizing layer (WGP) and the cover window (CW). By omitting the microlenses (MLS), the structure of the display panel (DP) is further simplified, and the manufacturing process of the display panel (DP) is simplified.

[0151] The display panel (DP) described with reference to FIG. 11 is the same as the display panel (DP) described with reference to FIG. 10, except for the position of the polarizing layer (WGP). In the following, overlapping descriptions will be omitted or simplified.

[0152] As shown in FIG. 11, in one embodiment, the polarizing layer (WGP) is disposed on the cover window (CW). Also, the microlens (MLS, see FIG. 2) and the planarization layer (OC, see FIG. 2) can be omitted. For example, the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3), the cover window (CW), and the polarizing layer (WGP) are sequentially disposed. However, similarly, the planarization layer (OC) is disposed between the polarizing layer (WGP) and the cover window (CW).

[0153] FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0154] As shown in FIG. 12, an electronic device (ED) according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a storage unit 10 and spectacle frame legs 20. For example, the electronic device (ED) according to an embodiment of the present invention is embodied as a head-mounted display. Therefore, hereinafter, the electronic device (ED) will be described by taking the head-mounted display as an example.

[0155] The storage unit 10 includes a display panel for displaying an image and an optical member for providing the image displayed on the display panel to the user's eyes. Here, the display panel corresponds to the display panel (DP) in FIGS. 2 and 9 to 11. A specific description of the storage unit 10 will be given later.

[0156] The electronic device (ED) provides the image displayed on the display panel of the storage unit 10 to the user through an eyepiece lens or the like. As a result, the electronic device (ED) can provide the virtual image displayed by the display panel of the storage unit 10 to the user. That is, the electronic device (ED) can implement virtual reality (VR).

[0157] The spectacle frame legs (temples) 20 are configured to be easily detachable by the user. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the electronic device (ED) may include a head-mounted band that can be worn on the head instead of the spectacle frame legs 20.

[0158] FIG. 13 is a side view showing an example of a storage portion of the electronic device in FIG. 12.

[0159] As shown in FIG. 13, the storage portion 10 includes a display panel (DP) and an optical member (OM).

[0160] The optical member (OM) is located in front of the display panel (DP). For example, the optical member (OM) is located between the display panel (DP) and a user (UR) (for example, the eyes of the user (UR)). That is, the display panel (DP) and the optical member (OM) are sequentially arranged along the normal direction of a plane. The optical member (OM) makes the light emitted from the display panel (DP) look wider, improving the sense of immersion and the three-dimensional effect.

[0161] The display panel (DP) in FIG. 13 corresponds to the display panel (DP) in FIGS. 2 and 9 to 11. Therefore, corresponding descriptions are omitted.

[0162] The optical member (OM) includes a first lens portion (LSP1) and a second lens portion (LSP2). The first lens portion (LSP1) includes a first lens (LS1), a first phase retardation layer (PHL1), and a beam splitter (BSP). The second lens portion (LSP2) includes a second lens (LS2), a second phase retardation layer (PHL2), and a polarizing plate (POL).

[0163] The first lens (LS1) and the second lens (LS2) are curved lenses. The curved surfaces of the first lens (LS1) and the second lens (LS2) are spherical or aspherical. On the other hand, in FIG. 13, although both sides of the first lens (LS1) are shown as bulging, the shape of the first lens (LS1) is not limited thereto. Each of the first lens (LS1) and the second lens (LS2) may include an optically isotropic substance. For example, each of the first lens (LS1) and the second lens (LS2) includes glass or PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate), etc.

[0164] The first phase retardation layer (PHL1) is disposed on one side of the first lens (LS1). For example, the first phase retardation layer (PHL1) is disposed on the display panel (DP) side of the first lens (LS1). The first phase retardation layer (PHL1) has a retardation axis and provides a phase difference with respect to the retardation axis. For example, the first phase retardation layer (PHL1) provides a phase difference of λ / 4 or 3λ / 4. Thereby, the first phase retardation layer (PHL1) can delay the light in the retardation axis direction by λ / 4 or 3λ / 4 to convert linearly polarized light into circularly polarized light or convert circularly polarized light into linearly polarized light.

[0165] The beam splitter (BSP) is disposed on one side of the first lens (LS1). For example, the beam splitter (BSP) is disposed on the user (UR) side of the first lens (LS1). The beam splitter (BSP) transmits a part of the incident light and reflects the other part. The beam splitter (BSP) can reflect and transmit light regardless of the polarization characteristics of the light. In one embodiment, the beam splitter (BSP) includes a semi-transparent metal material.

[0166] The second phase retardation layer (PHL2) is disposed on one side of the second lens (LS2). For example, the second phase retardation layer (PHL2) is disposed on the first lens portion (LSP1) side of the second lens (LS2). The second phase retardation layer (PHL2) has a retardation axis and provides a phase difference with respect to the retardation axis. For example, the second phase retardation layer (PHL2) provides a phase difference of λ / 4 or 3λ / 4. Thereby, the second phase retardation layer (PHL2) can delay the light in the retardation axis direction by λ / 4 or 3λ / 4 to convert linearly polarized light into circularly polarized light or convert circularly polarized light into linearly polarized light.

[0167] The polarizing plate (POL) is disposed on one side of the second lens (LS2). For example, the polarizing plate (POL) is disposed on the user (UR) side of the second lens (LS2).

[0168] In one embodiment, the polarizing plate (POL) is a reflective polarizing plate. In this case, the polarizing plate (POL) has a reflection axis. That is, the polarizing plate (POL) reflects light that is linearly polarized in the same direction as the reflection axis. That is, light that is linearly polarized in the same direction as the reflection axis does not pass through the polarizing plate (POL). Further, the polarizing plate (POL) transmits light that is linearly polarized perpendicular to the reflection axis. That is, the polarizing plate (POL) can have a transmission axis perpendicular to the reflection axis.

[0169] By including the storage unit 10 having the above-described configuration, an image is provided to the user (UR) through the eyepiece lens or the like. For example, a part of the light emitted from the display panel (DP) passes through the first retardation layer (PHL1), the first lens (LS1), the beam splitter (BSP), the second retardation layer (PHL2), and the second lens (LS2) and enters the polarizing plate (POL). A part of the light incident on the polarizing plate (POL) is reflected and enters the beam splitter (BSP). A part of the light incident on the beam splitter (BSP) is reflected and reaches the eyes of the user (UR). Thereby, the image displayed on the display panel (DP) is provided to the user.

[0170] On the other hand, the structure of the storage unit 10 described with reference to FIG. 13 is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the components and laminated structure of the optical member (OM) can be variously set according to the embodiment.

[0171] As described above, the exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been described. However, those having ordinary knowledge in the relevant technical field will understand that the present invention can be variously modified and changed without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention described in the following claims.

[0172] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, it is as follows.

[0173] The background of this case is as follows (i) to (iv).

[0174] (i) Organic light-emitting diode (OLED) arrays in organic light-emitting display panels are widely used in mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches. They are also used in large TVs and the like.

[0175] (ii) OLED display panels are also being considered for use in head-mounted displays and glasses-type displays. In this case, it is desirable to have high definition and high light utilization efficiency.

[0176] (iii) On the other hand, a "WOLED (white OLED)" method is also being considered for OLED display panels. Typically, in WOLED, R, G, and B light-emitting layers are stacked (tandem stack) on all pixel dots (pixel apertures) in the display area so that white light is emitted from the entire surface. Then, a color filter for R, G, and B is formed for each pixel dot by an inkjet method or the like.

[0177] (iv) In glasses-type displays and the like, it is also conceivable to increase the light utilization efficiency by providing a microlens (MLS) for each pixel dot (sub-pixel). On the other hand, it is also conceivable to provide a polarization function to reduce glare from external light.

[0178] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, it is, for example, any combination of the following A1 to A4 or A1 to A9.

[0179] A1 It is provided with a polarization layer having a grid pattern such as a wire grid. Preferably, it is provided inside the display panel main body (in-cell method). The polarization layer particularly performs a polarization action in the visible light region (420 - 720 nm) and has, for example, a transmittance of 82% or more. Also, it enables the reuse of the reflected light.

[0180] A2 Inside the color filter layer color-separated for each pixel dot (sub-pixel), a "phase retardation substance" is contained together with a "colorant". As a result, a "phase retardation plate" for enhancing the light reuse efficiency is unnecessary, and the distance from the upper surface of the pixel electrode (PE) to the lower surface of the polarization layer (WGP) can be less than about 3.8 μm, about 2.0 μm to about 3.0 μm, for example, about 2.5 μm.

[0181] A3 The "phase retardation substance" includes a "polymer of reactive mesogen". Here, the mesogen is in a rod-like (calamitic) or discotic (disk-like) shape. The "reactive mesogen" is one in which a "mesogen group" (A), a "polymerizable functional group" (B), and a linking group (Cn) are linearly linked (particularly, "Formula 1" or "Formula 2").

[0182] A4 This linking group (Cn) is one in which a "linear or branched alkylene group having 1 to 12 carbon atoms" (D) and "oxygen or a salt" are alternately linked (in the present application

[0082] ).

[0183] A5 An "isotropic colorant" is used as the "colorant".

[0184] A6 As the isotropic colorant, those described in the present application

[0103] can be used.

[0185] A7 As the "phase retardation substance", a general resin material as described in the present application

[0090] can also be used in combination with a "polymer of reactive mesogen".

[0186] A8 As the main light ray axis angle of the emitted light increases as it approaches the outer peripheral portion of the display panel (DP) (

[0125] ), the center (CN2) of the upper surface of the color filter (CF2) is shifted from the center (CN1) of the upper surface of the pixel electrode (PE) (Figs. 7 to 8). In this way, it is possible to prevent or suppress the reduction in the light reuse efficiency (

[0125] ).

[0187] An in-cell type microlens (MLS) with a refractive index of about 1.5 to 1.7 is used.

Industrial Applicability

[0188] The present invention is applicable to a display device and an electronic device including the same. For example, the present invention is applicable to a high-resolution smartphone, a mobile phone, a smart pad, a smart watch, a tablet PC, a vehicle navigation system, a television, a computer monitor, a notebook computer, and the like.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0189] DP: Display panel SUB: Base substrate PXC: Pixel circuit PE: Pixel electrode ML: Intermediate layer WGPP: Polarizing layer CF1, CF2, CF3: First to third color filters BM: Partition wall MLS: Microlens OC: Flattening layer CW: Cover window ED: Electronic device OM: Optical member LSP1, LSP2: First and second lens portions

Claims

1. A base substrate including a pixel circuit, A pixel electrode disposed on the base substrate, An intermediate layer disposed on the pixel electrode and including a light-emitting substance, A color filter disposed on the intermediate layer and including a phase retardation substance that delays the phase of incident light, A display panel including a polarizing layer disposed on the color filter and including a plurality of grid patterns spaced apart from each other at a predetermined interval.

2. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein the phase retardation substance included in the color filter includes a polymer of a reactive mesogen.

3. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein the color filter has a retardation axis and delays light in the direction of the retardation axis to convert linearly polarized light into circularly polarized light or convert circularly polarized light into linearly polarized light.

4. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein the color filter includes a coloring material.

5. The display panel according to claim 4, wherein the coloring material included in the color filter is an isotropic coloring material.

6. The display panel according to claim 5, wherein the isotropic coloring material has substantially the same absorption rate for polarization parallel to the major axis direction of the molecular structure and the absorption rate for polarization perpendicular to the major axis direction.

7. The display panel according to claim 5, wherein the dichroic ratio of the color filter is less than 1.

2.

8. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein the in-plane retardation of the color filter is from 100 nm to 450 nm.

9. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein in the absorption spectrum of the color filter for light in a wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm, the absorption value of the color filter exceeds 0 and is 2 or less.

10. Further including a partition wall defining an opening, The display panel according to claim 1, wherein the color filter is disposed in the opening defined by the partition wall.

11. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein the difference between the height from the upper surface of the base substrate to the lower surface of the polarizing layer and the height from the upper surface of the base substrate to the upper surface of the pixel electrode is less than 3.8 μm.

12. A first pixel region in which light is emitted at a first principal ray axis angle, and a second pixel region in which light is emitted at a second principal ray axis angle greater than the first principal ray axis angle, The display panel according to claim 1, wherein a horizontal isolation distance between a center of an upper surface of the pixel electrode and a center of an upper surface of the color filter on a cross section of the second pixel region is greater than the horizontal isolation distance between the center of the upper surface of the pixel electrode and the center of the upper surface of the color filter on a cross section of the first pixel region.

13. The display panel according to claim 12, wherein the second pixel region is a region located closer to an outer contour portion than the first pixel region.

14. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein the grid pattern is a metal pattern including a metal substance.

15. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein the intermediate layer has a structure in which at least two or more light-emitting layers are stacked.

16. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein the intermediate layer emits white light.

17. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein the base substrate is at least one of a silicon wafer including silicon and a sapphire substrate including sapphire.

18. Furthermore, a plurality of microlenses disposed on the color filter layer, A planarization layer disposed on the microlenses and covering the microlenses, The display panel according to claim 1, further comprising a cover window disposed on the planarization layer.

19. A display panel, An optical member including a lens portion, disposed on a path of light emitted from the display panel, The display panel, A base substrate including a pixel circuit, A pixel electrode disposed on the base substrate, An intermediate layer disposed on the pixel electrode and including a light-emitting substance, A color filter disposed on the intermediate layer and including a phase retardation substance and a colorant that retard a phase of incident light, An electronic device, comprising a polarizing layer disposed on the color filter and including a plurality of grid patterns spaced apart from each other at a predetermined interval.

20. The phase retardation substance provided in the color filter includes a polymer of a reactive mesogen, The electronic device according to claim 19, wherein the colorant provided in the color filter is an isotropic colorant.

21. The color filter has a retardation axis and delays light in the direction of the retardation axis to convert linearly polarized light into circularly polarized light or convert circularly polarized light into linearly polarized light, and the electronic device according to claim 19, characterized in that.

22. The display panel further includes a partition wall that defines an opening, The color filter is disposed in the opening defined by the partition wall, and the electronic device according to claim 19, characterized in that.

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