Display device manufacturing apparatus and display device manufacturing method using the same

Abstract

To provide a display device manufacturing apparatus capable of adjusting the amount of light-emitting elements to reduce process costs and provide a uniform amount of light-emitting elements in a pixel, a display device manufacturing method using the same, and a display device manufactured by the same. [Solution] A display device manufacturing apparatus includes a first reservoir for containing a solvent, a second reservoir for containing light-emitting elements, a mixing chamber for containing the solvent and ink including the light-emitting elements, a first channel connecting the first reservoir and the mixing chamber, a second channel connecting the second reservoir and the mixing chamber, and a counter for acquiring information regarding the number of the light-emitting elements moved within the second channel.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a display device manufacturing apparatus, a display device manufacturing method using the same, and a display device manufactured thereby. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Recently, as interest in information displays has increased, research and development into display devices has been continuously carried out.

[0003] It should be understood that this Background of the Technology section is intended, in part, to provide background useful for understanding the technology, but may include ideas, concepts, or perceptions that were not part of what was known or appreciated by those of skill in the relevant art prior to the applicable effective filing date of the subject matter disclosed herein. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] One object of the present disclosure is to provide a display device manufacturing apparatus that can adjust the amount of light-emitting elements to reduce process costs and provide a uniform amount of light-emitting elements within a pixel, a display device manufacturing method using the same, and a display device manufactured by the same.

[0005] The problems to be solved by the present disclosure are not limited to the above problems, and other technical problems not described herein will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one embodiment, a display device manufacturing apparatus may include a first reservoir for containing a solvent, a second reservoir for containing light-emitting elements, a mixing chamber for containing an ink including the solvent and the light-emitting elements, a first channel connecting the first reservoir and the mixing chamber, a second channel connecting the second reservoir and the mixing chamber, and a counter for acquiring information regarding the number of the light-emitting elements moved within the second channel.

[0007] According to an embodiment, the first channel and the second channel may be fluidly isolated from each other.

[0008] According to an embodiment, the first channel and the second channel may be a manifold.

[0009] According to an embodiment, the first channel may include a first body channel and a first branch channel communicating with the first body channel, and the second channel may include a second body channel and a second branch channel communicating with the second body channel.

[0010] According to an embodiment, the mixing chamber may be fluidly connected to each of the first branch channel and the second branch channel.

[0011] According to an embodiment, the counter may be disposed adjacent to the second branch channel.

[0012] According to an embodiment, a controller may be electrically connected to the counter, and the controller may calculate the number of the light-emitting elements passing through the second branch channel based on information regarding the number of the light-emitting elements.

[0013] According to an embodiment, the counter may be at least one of an image analyzer, a counter performing laser diffraction, a counter performing dynamic light scattering, and a counter performing electronic sensing.

[0014] According to an embodiment, the device may further include an opening / closing unit having an open state or a closed state, and when the opening / closing unit has the closed state, the second branch channel and the mixing chamber may be fluidically blocked, and when the opening / closing unit has the open state, the second branch channel and the mixing chamber may be fluidically connected.

[0015] According to an embodiment, a controller may be electrically connected to the counter, and when the controller receives a first number signal from the counter, the opening / closing unit may have the open state, and when the controller receives a second number signal from the counter that is different from the first number signal, the opening / closing unit may have the closed state.

[0016] According to an embodiment, the display device manufacturing apparatus may further include a nozzle unit for discharging the ink, and the nozzle unit may be connected to the mixing chamber.

[0017] According to an embodiment, a cross-sectional area of ​​the second branch channel may vary along a length of the second branch channel.

[0018] According to the embodiment, a movement guide unit can guide the movement of the light-emitting element in the second channel, and the movement guide unit can apply an external force toward the mixing chamber to the light-emitting element in the second channel.

[0019] According to an embodiment, the movement guide may be at least one of an electrode that forms an electric field applied to the light-emitting element, an air flow generator that forms an air flow toward the mixing chamber, and an actuator that applies an external force toward the mixing chamber.

[0020] According to an embodiment, the mixing chamber may include a first mixing chamber and a second mixing chamber, the first mixing chamber may be connected to the first channel, and the second mixing chamber may be connected to the second channel.

[0021] According to one embodiment, a display device manufacturing apparatus may include an integrated reservoir for containing an ink including light-emitting elements and a solvent, a mixing chamber for containing the ink and including an exhaust flow path through which the ink is exhausted, an integrated channel connected between the integrated reservoir and the mixing chamber, a counter for acquiring information regarding the number of the light-emitting elements contained in the mixing chamber, and an opening / closing unit for opening or closing the exhaust flow path of the mixing chamber based on the information regarding the number of the light-emitting elements.

[0022] According to one embodiment, a method for manufacturing a display device using a display device manufacturing apparatus may include a step of preparing a substrate - the substrate includes a base substrate and a first electrode and a second electrode disposed on the base substrate - a step of providing ink on the substrate, and a step of forming an electric field between the first electrode and the second electrode, where the step of providing ink may include a step of disposing at least a portion of the ink provided from a mixing chamber between the first electrode and the second electrode, and the step of forming the electric field may include a step of disposing a light-emitting element between the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0023] According to an embodiment, the display device manufacturing apparatus further includes an opening / closing unit having an open state or a closed state, the first channel includes a first body channel and a first branch channel communicating with the first body channel, the second channel includes a second body channel and a second branch channel communicating with the second body channel, and when the opening / closing unit has the open state, the second branch channel and the mixing chamber can be fluidically blocked, and when the opening / closing unit has the open state, the second branch channel and the mixing chamber can be fluidically connected.

[0024] According to an embodiment, the display device manufacturing apparatus includes a first mixing chamber for containing the solvent and a second mixing chamber for containing light-emitting element ink, the light-emitting element ink may include a fluid and the light-emitting element dispersed in the fluid, the first mixing chamber may be connected to the first channel, and the second mixing chamber may be connected to the second channel, and the step of providing the ink may include a step of providing the solvent contained in the first mixing chamber to an ejection position at a first time point, and a step of providing the light-emitting element ink contained in the second mixing chamber to the ejection position at a second time point different from the first time point.

[0025] According to one embodiment, a display device manufactured using the display device manufacturing apparatus can be provided.

[0026] The means for solving the problem of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned means for solving the problem, and other means for solving the problem should be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the specification and the attached drawings. Effect of the Invention

[0027] According to one embodiment, it is possible to provide a display device manufacturing apparatus that can adjust the amount of light-emitting elements to reduce process costs and provide a uniform amount of light-emitting elements in a pixel, a display device manufacturing method using the same, and a display device manufactured thereby.

[0028] The effects of the present disclosure are not limited to the effects described above, and effects not described should be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains from the specification and the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0029] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic perspective view showing a light emitting device according to an embodiment; [Diagram 2] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a light-emitting device according to an embodiment. [Diagram 3] 1 is a schematic plan view showing a display device including a light emitting device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' in FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing a manufacturing apparatus for a display device according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a manufacturing apparatus for a display device according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a print head unit and a reservoir included in a display device according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of the EA1 region in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of the EA1 region in FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of EA2 in FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a printhead unit and a reservoir according to one embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a printhead unit and a reservoir according to one embodiment. [Figure 13] 1 is a flowchart showing a method for manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] 5A to 5C are schematic cross-sectional views showing a substrate in a process step of a display device manufacturing method using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] 5A to 5C are schematic cross-sectional views of each process step of a display device manufacturing method using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 16] 5A to 5C are schematic cross-sectional views of each process step of a display device manufacturing method using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 17] 1A to 1C are schematic plan views showing a method for manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 18] 5A to 5C are schematic cross-sectional views showing a substrate in a process step of a display device manufacturing method using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 19] 1A to 1C are schematic plan views showing a method for manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0030] The examples described in this specification are intended to clearly explain the spirit and scope of the present disclosure to those having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the described examples, and the scope of the present disclosure should be interpreted as including modifications or variations within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0031] The terms used in this specification are general terms, but they may change within the spirit and scope of the disclosure depending on the understanding of a person having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the disclosure belongs, custom, or the emergence of new technology. However, when a term is defined and used, other meanings of the term will be described separately. Therefore, the terms used in this specification should be interpreted based on the given meaning of the term and the entire content of the specification.

[0032] For example, unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the specification have the same meaning as commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Commonly used and dictionary-defined terms should be interpreted to have a meaning consistent with the meaning in the context of the relevant art, and not to be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense, unless expressly defined below.

[0033] The drawings attached to this specification are intended to explain the present disclosure, and the shapes shown in the drawings may be exaggerated as necessary to facilitate understanding of the present disclosure, and therefore the present disclosure is not limited by the drawings.

[0034] In the drawings, the size, thickness, ratios and dimensions of components may be exaggerated for convenience and clarity of illustration. The same reference numbers may refer to the same components below.

[0035] As used hereinafter, the singular forms are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0036] The term "and / or" in this specification and claims is intended to include any combination of "and" and "or" terms for the purposes of its meaning and interpretation. For example, "A and / or B" can be understood to mean "A, B, or A and B." The terms "and" and "or" can be used in the conjunctive or conjunctive sense and can be understood to be equivalent to "and / or."

[0037] The phrase "at least one of" in this specification and claims is intended to include the meaning of "at least one selected from the group of" for the purposes of its meaning and interpretation. For example, "at least one of A and B" can be understood to mean "A, B, or A and B."

[0038] Terms such as first and second may be used in the specification to describe various components, but these components should not be limited by the terms. These terms are used to distinguish one component from another. For example, the first component may be called the second component, and similarly the second component may be called the first component, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0039] Spatially relative terms such as "below," "lower," "upper," "top," and the like, may be used for ease of description to describe the relationship between one component and another, as illustrated. Spatially relative terms are intended to include other orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation shown. For example, if the device shown in the figures were inverted, a device that is located "below" or "below" another device could be located "above" the other device. Thus, the exemplary term "below" can include both lower and upper positions. Devices may be oriented in other directions as well, and therefore spatially relative terms may be interpreted differently depending on the orientation.

[0040] The term "overlapping" means that a first object can be located above, below, or to the side of a second object, or vice versa. Additionally, the term "overlapping" can include stacked, opposed, extending over, covering, or partially overlapping, or any other suitable term understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0041] When certain components are described as not overlapping with other components, this can include the components being spaced apart from one another, offset from one another, distant from one another, or any other term understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0042] The term "opposite" means that a first component can directly or indirectly face a second component. If a third component is interposed between the first and second components, the first and second components can still be understood to be opposed and indirectly facing each other.

[0043] When the terms "comprise", "have", and variations thereof are used in this specification, they embody the presence of stated features, values, steps, operations, structures, and / or groups thereof, but do not exclude the presence of one or more other features, values, steps, operations, structures, and / or groups thereof.

[0044] The phrase "as viewed in a plane" means that the object is viewed from above, and the phrase "in schematic cross section" means that the object is viewed through a vertical cut from the side.

[0045] As used herein, "about" or "approximately" means within an acceptable range of deviation from a particular value, inclusive of the stated value, as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art taking into account the measurement and error associated with measuring a particular quantity (i.e., limitations of the measurement system). For example, "about" can mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, 20%, 10%, 5% of the stated value.

[0046] As used herein, when a component (or region, layer, portion, etc.) is referred to as being "on," "coupled," etc., this includes being directly disposed, coupled, or joined to the other component referenced, or having intervening components disposed therebetween.

[0047] The term "coupled" will be understood to include either physically or electrically coupled.

[0048] The present disclosure relates to a display device manufacturing apparatus, a display device manufacturing method using the same, and a display device manufactured thereby. Hereinafter, the display device manufacturing apparatus according to the embodiment, the display device manufacturing method using the same, and the display device manufactured thereby will be described with reference to Figs. 1 to 19.

[0049] Before describing the display device manufacturing apparatus (see '1' in FIG. 5) according to the embodiment, a display device manufactured by the display device manufacturing apparatus 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0050] A light-emitting element LD included in a display device according to an embodiment is shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 are a schematic perspective view and a schematic cross-sectional view showing a light-emitting element according to an embodiment. Although Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 show a pillar-shaped light-emitting element LD, the type and / or shape of the light-emitting element LD is not limited thereto.

[0051] 1 and 2, the light emitting device LD may include a first semiconductor layer 11, a second semiconductor layer 13, and an active layer 12 interposed between the first and second semiconductor layers 11, 13. For example, when the extension direction of the light emitting device LD is the length L direction, the light emitting device LD may include the first semiconductor layer 11, the active layer 12, and the second semiconductor layer 13 sequentially stacked along the length L direction.

[0052] According to the embodiment, the light emitting element LD may have a columnar shape extending along one direction. The light emitting element LD may include a first end EP1 and a second end EP2. One of the first and second semiconductor layers 11, 13 may be disposed at the first end EP1 of the light emitting element LD. The remaining one of the first and second semiconductor layers 11, 13 may be disposed at the second end EP2 of the light emitting element LD.

[0053] According to the embodiment, the columnar shape includes a generally rod-like shape or a generally bar-like shape that is long in the length L direction (e.g., the aspect ratio is greater than 1), such as a circular cylinder or a polygonal prism, and the shape of the cross section is not particularly limited. For example, the length L of the light emitting element LD may be greater than its diameter D (or the width of the cross section).

[0054] According to an embodiment, the light emitting element LD may have a small size of about nanometer scale to micrometer scale. For example, the light emitting element LD may have a diameter D (or width) and / or length L in the nanometer scale to micrometer scale range, respectively.

[0055] However, the size of the light-emitting element LD is not limited to this, and the size of the light-emitting element LD can be changed in various ways depending on the design conditions of various devices that use a light-emitting device using the light-emitting element LD as a light source, such as a display device.

[0056] According to the embodiment, the first semiconductor layer 11 may be a semiconductor layer of a first conductivity type. For example, the first semiconductor layer 11 may include an N-type semiconductor layer. As an example, the first semiconductor layer 11 may include an N-type semiconductor layer including any one of semiconductor materials of InAlGaN, GaN, AlGaN, InGaN, AlN, and InN, and doped with a first conductivity type dopant such as Si, Ge, or Sn. However, the material constituting or forming the first semiconductor layer 11 is not limited thereto.

[0057] According to the embodiment, the active layer 12 is disposed on the first semiconductor layer 11 and may be formed in a single quantum well or multi-quantum well structure. The position of the active layer 12 may be changed in various ways depending on the type of the light emitting device LD.

[0058] Although not specifically shown, according to an embodiment, a cladding layer doped with a conductive dopant may be formed or disposed on the upper and / or lower part of the active layer 12. As an example, the cladding layer may be formed of an AlGaN layer or an InAlGaN layer. According to an embodiment, materials such as AlGaN and InAlGaN may be used to form the active layer 12, and various other materials may be used to form or compose the active layer 12.

[0059] According to an embodiment, the second semiconductor layer 13 is disposed on the active layer 12 and may include a semiconductor layer of a different type from the first semiconductor layer 11. For example, the second semiconductor layer 13 may include a P-type semiconductor layer. As an example, the second semiconductor layer 13 may include at least one semiconductor material of InAlGaN, GaN, AlGaN, InGaN, AlN, and InN, and may include a P-type semiconductor layer doped with a second conductive type dopant such as Mg. However, the material constituting or forming the second semiconductor layer 13 is not limited thereto.

[0060] When a voltage equal to or higher than the threshold voltage is applied across the light emitting element LD, the light emitting element LD emits light as electron-hole pairs combine in the active layer 12. By controlling the light emission of the light emitting element LD using this principle, the light emitting element LD can be used as a light source for various light emitting devices, including the pixels of a display device (see 'PXL' in FIG. 3).

[0061] According to the embodiment, the light emitting device LD may further include an insulating film INF provided on the surface. The insulating film INF may be formed or disposed on the surface of the light emitting device LD to surround at least the outer surface of the active layer 12, and may further surround a region of the first and second semiconductor layers 11 and 13.

[0062] According to the embodiment, the insulating film INF can expose both ends of the light emitting element LD having different polarities. For example, the insulating film INF can expose one end of each of the first and second semiconductor layers 11, 13 located or disposed at the first and second ends EP1, EP2 of the light emitting element LD. In the embodiment, the insulating film INF can also expose side portions of the first and second semiconductor layers 11, 13 adjacent to the first and second ends EP1, EP2 of the light emitting element LD having different polarities.

[0063] According to the embodiment, the insulating film INF may include any one of silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxynitride (SiOxNy), aluminum oxide (AlOx), and titanium oxide (TiOx). The insulating film INF may be embodied as a single layer or multiple layers, but is not limited thereto.

[0064] According to the embodiment, when the insulating film INF is provided, the electrical stability of the light emitting element LD can be ensured and surface defects of the light emitting element LD can be reduced.

[0065] Although not specifically shown, according to an embodiment, the light-emitting element LD may further include one or more phosphor layers, active layers, semiconductor layers and / or electrode layers arranged on one end side of the first semiconductor layer 11, the active layer 12 and / or the second semiconductor layer 13.

[0066] The type, structure and / or shape of the light emitting device LD are not limited to the above examples and may be modified in various ways. For example, the light emitting device LD may be formed in a core-shell structure having a polygonal pyramid shape.

[0067] The light emitting device including the light emitting element LD described above can be used in various types of devices that require a light source, such as a display device. For example, the light emitting element LD can be disposed in each pixel PXL of a display panel (see 'PNL' in FIG. 3) and the light emitting element LD can be used as a light source for each pixel PXL.

[0068] However, the application field of the light-emitting element LD is not limited to the above example. For example, the light-emitting element LD can be used in other types of devices that require a light source, such as a lighting device.

[0069] Fig. 3 is a schematic plan view showing a display device including a light-emitting element according to an embodiment. Fig. 3 shows a display device as an example of an electronic device that can use a light-emitting element LD as a light source. For example, Fig. 3 describes a display panel PNL provided in the display device.

[0070] 3, the display panel PNL may include a base substrate BSL and a pixel PXL disposed on the base substrate BSL. The pixel PXL may be provided or disposed on the base substrate BSL. According to an embodiment, the display panel PNL may further include a driving circuit unit (or a driving circuit) (for example, a scan driving unit and / or a data driving unit), wiring and / or pads.

[0071] The base substrate BSL forms a base member of the display panel PNL and may be a hard or soft substrate or film.

[0072] The display panel PNL and the base substrate BSL can include a display area DA for displaying an image and a non-display area NDA excluding the display area DA.

[0073] Pixels PXL may be arranged in the display area DA. The pixels PXL may include a light emitting element LD. The pixels PXL may be arranged or positioned in a stripe or PenTile(R) arrangement structure, but the arrangement structure of the pixels PXL is not limited thereto.

[0074] In the non-display area NDA, various wirings, pads and / or built-in circuit units electrically connected to the pixels PXL of the display area DA may be arranged. The non-display area NDA may refer to an area other than the display area DA where the pixels PXL are not arranged.

[0075] According to an embodiment, two or more types of pixels PXL emitting light of different colors may be arranged in the display area DA. For example, the pixels PXL may include a first pixel PXL1 emitting light of a first color, a second pixel PXL2 emitting light of a second color, and a third pixel PXL3 emitting light of a third color.

[0076] According to the embodiment, the first to third pixels PXL1, PXL2, and PXL3 may constitute or form one pixel unit capable of emitting light of various colors. For example, the first to third pixels PXL1, PXL2, and PXL3 may each be a sub-pixel that emits light of one color. For example, the first pixel PXL1 may be a red pixel that emits red light, the second pixel PXL2 may be a green pixel that emits green light, and the third pixel PXL3 may be a blue pixel that emits blue light, but is not limited thereto.

[0077] According to an embodiment, the pixel PXL may include at least one light source driven by control signals (for example, a scanning signal and a data signal) and / or power sources (for example, a first power source and a second power source that applies a voltage different from the first power source).

[0078] According to the embodiment, each pixel PXL may be an active pixel. However, the type, structure and / or driving method of the pixel PXL that can be applied to the display device is not particularly limited. For example, each pixel PXL may be a pixel of a passive or active light-emitting display device having various structures and / or driving methods.

[0079] The structure of each pixel PXL will be described below with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line I to I' in Fig. 3.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 4, the pixel PXL may include a base substrate BSL, a pixel circuit portion PCL, and a display element portion DPL.

[0081] The base substrate BSL may be the bottom surface of the pixel PXL. The base substrate BSL may be a rigid or flexible substrate. According to an example, the substrate BSL may include a rigid material or a flexible material, but is not limited to the given example.

[0082] The pixel circuit unit PCL may be disposed on the base substrate BSL. The pixel circuit unit PCL may include a transistor and an insulating layer. The transistor may be a thin film transistor, or may be a driving transistor depending on the embodiment. Any one of the insulating layers may be disposed on the transistor. The structure of the pixel circuit unit PCL is not limited to the given example, and various structures may be applied.

[0083] The display element unit DPL can be disposed on the pixel circuit unit PCL. The display element unit DPL can include a bank pattern BNP, a first electrode ELT1, a second electrode ELT2, an insulating film INS, a light-emitting element LD, a first bank BNK1, and a second bank BNK2.

[0084] The bank pattern BNP may have a shape that extends (or protrudes) or generally extends (or protrudes) in an upward direction. At least a portion of each of the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2 may be disposed on the bank pattern BNP to form a reflective barrier rib or a bank. The reflective barrier rib or bank may be formed to improve the light emitting efficiency of the light emitting element LD. According to an example, the upward direction may refer to a third direction DR3. For example, the upward direction may refer to a display direction in which light from the light emitting element LD may be emitted.

[0085] The first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2 may be disposed on the pixel circuit unit PCL. According to an example, at least a portion of each of the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2 may be disposed on the bank pattern BNP.

[0086] According to the embodiment, the first electrode ELT1 may be electrically connected to the light emitting element LD. Although not shown, a first contact electrode may be disposed on the insulating film INS, and the first electrode ELT1 may be electrically connected to the light emitting element LD through the first contact electrode.

[0087] According to the embodiment, the second electrode ELT2 may be electrically connected to the light emitting element LD. Although not shown, a second contact electrode may be disposed on the insulating film INS, and the second electrode ELT2 may be electrically connected to the light emitting element LD through the second contact electrode.

[0088] According to the embodiment, the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2 can function as alignment electrodes for the light emitting element LD. For example, the light emitting element LD can be provided in ink (see 'INK' in FIG. 7) and then aligned or positioned based on an electric field formed between the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2. Details of this will be described later with reference to FIGS. 13 to 19.

[0089] The insulating film INS may be disposed on the first electrode ELT1 and / or the second electrode ELT2. The insulating film INS may include, but is not limited to, at least one of silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon oxynitride (SiOxNy), and aluminum oxide (AlOx). The insulating film INS may stabilize the electrical connection of the electrode configuration included in the display element part DPL and reduce external influences.

[0090] The light emitting element LD may be disposed on the insulating film INS. According to one example, the insulating film INS may have a groove (or a cavity), and at least a part of the light emitting element LD may contact an end formed by the groove, and another part of the light emitting element LD may contact another end formed by the groove. The light emitting element LD may be the light emitting element LD described above with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0091] According to the embodiment, the light emitting element LD can emit light based on an electrical signal provided via the first electrode ELT1 and an electrical signal provided via the second electrode ELT2.

[0092] The first bank BNK1 and the second bank BNK2 may be structures that define a light emitting region of the pixel PXL. Here, the light emitting region may refer to a region where the first bank BNK1 and the second bank BNK2 are not arranged and where the light emitting element LD is arranged and emits light. For example, the first bank BNK1 and the second bank BNK2 may be arranged in a boundary region between adjacent light emitting elements LD so as to surround the light emitting element LD of the pixel PXL.

[0093] The arrangement of the light emitting device LD and the electrode configuration is not limited to the example described above with reference to FIG. 4, and may be different and implemented according to various embodiments.

[0094] Hereinafter, the display device manufacturing apparatus 1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5 to Fig. 12. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the display device manufacturing apparatus 1 will be abbreviated to manufacturing apparatus 1.

[0095] Fig. 5 is a schematic perspective view showing a manufacturing apparatus for a display device according to an embodiment. Fig. 6 is a block diagram showing a manufacturing apparatus for a display device according to an embodiment. Fig. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a print head unit or print head and a reservoir included in a display device according to an embodiment.

[0096] 5, the manufacturing apparatus 1 may include a stage 10, a print head unit 20, and a moving unit (or mover) 30. According to one embodiment, the manufacturing apparatus 1 may be referred to as a printing apparatus.

[0097] The stage 10 may support the substrate 100. The stage 10 may provide an area on which the substrate 100 may be disposed. Here, the substrate 100 may be a substrate for manufacturing a display panel PNL that displays an image. The substrate 100 may include a base substrate BSL and a pixel circuit unit PCL (see FIG. 14). The light emitting elements LD may be arranged or disposed on the substrate 100 to provide the pixels PXL described above with reference to FIG. 4.

[0098] According to an embodiment, the stage 10 may have a rigid material, but is not limited thereto. The stage 10 may have a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape when viewed in a plane, but is not limited thereto.

[0099] According to an embodiment, the stage 10 can change the position of the substrate 100. For example, the stage 10 can move the substrate 100 using a rail or the like within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. According to an embodiment, the substrate 100 can be moved in a first direction DR1 by the stage 10.

[0100] The print head unit 20 can be disposed on top of the stage 10. The print head unit 20 can be disposed between the stage 10 and the moving unit 30.

[0101] According to the embodiment, the print head unit 20 can eject (or provide, spray) the ink INK. The ink INK can include the light emitting element LD and a solvent (see 'SLV' in FIG. 7). The ink INK can be provided by mixing the light emitting element LD and the solvent SLV. Here, the light emitting element LD can be provided by being dispersed in the solvent SLV.

[0102] According to the embodiment, the print head unit 20 may be moved in the second direction DR2 by the guide portion 32 (or a guide). As described above, the position of the substrate 100 and the position of the print head unit 20 may be adjusted to adjust the area on the substrate 100 where the ink INK is provided.

[0103] The print head unit 20 will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS.

[0104] The moving unit 30 can be coupled to the print head unit 20. The moving unit 30 can move the print head unit 20.

[0105] According to an embodiment, the moving unit 30 may include a support portion 31 (or a support), a guide portion 32, and a coupling portion 33 (or a coupler). The support portion 31 may support the print head unit 20. The guide portion 32 may be coupled or connected to the support portion 31 to guide the movement of the print head unit 20. The coupling portion 33 may be coupled or connected to the print head unit 20 and may move along the guide portion 32.

[0106] For example, if there is a need for the print head unit 20 to move along the second direction DR2, the coupling portion 33 is moved along the guide portion 32 in the second direction DR2, and the position of the print head unit 20 can be changed along the second direction DR2.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 6, the manufacturing apparatus 1 may further include a reservoir 40 and a control unit 50 (or controller).

[0108] The reservoir 40 may include a space for containing a fluid. For example, a fluid (or a substance) may be contained in the reservoir 40. In the reservoir 40, a solvent SLV and / or a light-emitting element LD may be provided.

[0109] According to the embodiment, the internal environment of the reservoir 40 can be controlled by the controller 50. For example, the temperature inside the reservoir 40 can be appropriately selected by the controller 50.

[0110] According to an embodiment, the reservoir 40 may be provided separately from the print head unit 20. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the reservoir 40 may be provided in an external space of a housing (see '210' in FIG. 7). However, without being limited thereto, in some embodiments, the reservoir 40 may be provided as being included in the print head unit 20. For example, at least a portion of the reservoir 40 may be provided within the housing 210.

[0111] According to an embodiment, the reservoir 40 can contain a solvent SLV and / or a light-emitting element LD. The reservoir 40 can include a first reservoir 42 capable of containing a solvent SLV and a second reservoir 44 capable of containing a light-emitting element LD.

[0112] According to the embodiment, the first reservoir 42 may include a space for containing the solvent SLV contained in the ink INK. The first reservoir 42 may be fluidly connected to a first channel 222. For example, the solvent SLV contained in the first reservoir 42 may be transferred to the first channel 222.

[0113] According to an embodiment, the first reservoir 42 can be fluidly blocked (or separated) from the second channel 224. For example, the first reservoir 42 can be connected to the first channel 222 without being connected to the second channel 224, and the solvent SLV can not be provided to the second channel 224.

[0114] According to the embodiment, the second reservoir 44 may include a space in which the light emitting element LD contained in the ink INK may be accommodated. The second reservoir 44 may be fluidly connected to the second channel 224. For example, the light emitting element LD accommodated in the second reservoir 44 may be moved to the second channel 224.

[0115] According to the embodiment, the second reservoir 44 may be fluidly blocked (or separated) from the first channel 222. For example, the second reservoir 44 may be connected to the second channel 224 without being connected to the first channel 222, and the light emitting element LD may not be provided in the first channel 222.

[0116] The control unit 50 may control the operation of the entire manufacturing apparatus 1. For example, the control unit 50 may control the fluid or material contained in the reservoir 40 to be discharged to the outside of the reservoir 40. For example, the control unit 50 may change the pose of the opening / closing unit 240 included in the print head unit 20 to an open state or a closed state. The control unit 50 may be electrically connected (wirelessly or by wire) to the opening / closing unit 240. The control unit 50 may control the operation of the nozzle unit 260 to discharge the ink INK contained in the mixing chamber 250 to the outside or not to be discharged to the outside.

[0117] According to the embodiment, the control unit 50 can calculate the number of light emitting elements LD passing through the second channel 224 from information on the number of light emitting elements LD provided from the counting unit 230 (or counter). The control unit 50 can determine whether to operate the opening / closing unit 240 based on the information on the number of light emitting elements LD provided from the counting unit 230.

[0118] According to the embodiment, the control unit 50 may be realized as a CPU or a similar device using hardware, software, or a combination of these. In terms of hardware, the control unit 50 may be provided in the form of an electronic circuit that processes electrical signals to perform control functions. In terms of software, the control unit 50 may be provided in the form of a program, application, firmware, etc. that is processed by the hardware control unit 50.

[0119] 6 illustrates the control unit 50 as a single component, but is not limited thereto. Depending on the embodiment, the control unit 50 may be embodied in a separated form in various components. For example, the control unit 50 may include a first control unit that controls the operation of the reservoir 40 and a second control unit that controls the print head unit 20. The control unit 50 may be provided separately from the print head unit 20, but is not limited thereto. According to an example, the control unit 50 may be provided as included in the print head unit 20.

[0120] The manufacturing apparatus 1 according to the embodiment will be described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 6 in conjunction with FIG.

[0121] 6 and 7, the print head unit 20 may include a housing 210, a channel 220, a counting portion 230, an opening / closing portion 240, a mixing chamber 250, and a nozzle portion 260.

[0122] According to an embodiment, the housing 210 can support the outer shape of the print head unit 20. Within the housing 210, individual components of the print head unit 20 can be disposed.

[0123] According to the embodiment, the channel 220 may include a first channel 222 and a second channel 224. The first channel 222 and the second channel 224 may be separated (or fluidically blocked) from each other, thereby preventing the fluids (or substances, etc.) provided to the first channel 222 and the second channel 224, respectively, from being mixed with each other.

[0124] According to the embodiment, the first channel 222 may be connected to the first reservoir 42. The first channel 222 may connect the first reservoir 42 and the mixing chamber 250 to each other. The first channel 222 may be a path through which the solvent SLV contained in the first reservoir 42 is provided. Thus, the solvent SLV provided from the first reservoir 42 may be provided to the mixing chamber 250 via the first channel 222.

[0125] According to an embodiment, the second channel 224 may be connected to the second reservoir 44. According to an embodiment, the second channel 224 may connect the second reservoir 44 and the mixing chamber 250 to each other. The second channel 224 may be a path through which the light emitting element LD accommodated in the second reservoir 44 is provided. Thus, the light emitting element LD provided from the second reservoir 44 may be provided to the mixing chamber 250 via the second channel 224.

[0126] According to the embodiment, a surface treatment for preventing static electricity may be performed on the inner surface of the second channel 224. Experiments have shown that the movement of the light emitting element LD in the second channel 224 may be hindered depending on the polarity of the light emitting element LD, but the surface treatment allows the light emitting element LD in the second channel 224 to move smoothly.

[0127] According to an embodiment, the first channel 222 and the second channel 224 may be provided in a manifold form. For example, the first channel 222 may include a first body channel 223 and a first branch channel 226. Similarly, the second channel 224 may include a second body channel 225 and a second branch channel 228.

[0128] According to an embodiment, the first body channels 223 can communicate with the first branch channels 226 at a plurality of locations, respectively. The second body channels 225 can communicate with the second branch channels 228 at a plurality of locations, respectively.

[0129] According to an embodiment, the first branch channel 226 may be connected to the first body channel 223, so that the solvent SLV provided to the first body channel 223 may be provided to the first branch channel 226. The first branch channel 226 may connect the first body channel 223 and the mixing chamber 250.

[0130] According to the embodiment, the second branch channel 228 may be connected to the second body channel 225, so that the light emitting device LD provided to the second body channel 225 may be provided to the second branch channel 228. The second branch channel 228 may connect the second body channel 225 and the mixing chamber 250.

[0131] According to an embodiment, the diameter of the second branch channel 228 may be larger than the light emitting element LD. According to an example, the diameter of the second branch channel 228 may be within 100 μm, but is not limited thereto.

[0132] The counting unit 230 may be disposed adjacent to the second channel 224. The counting unit 230 may be disposed adjacent to the second branch channel 228 of the second channel 224.

[0133] For example, the counting unit 230 may be in contact with the second branch channel 228 (see FIG. 8), but is not limited thereto. According to yet another example, the counting unit 230 may be disposed adjacent to a position where the second branch channel 228 and the mixing chamber 250 are connected to each other (see FIG. 9) without forming a contact surface with the second branch channel 228.

[0134] According to the embodiment, the counting unit 230 can obtain information regarding the quantity of the light-emitting elements LD. The counting unit 230 can obtain information regarding the number of the light-emitting elements LD.

[0135] The number of light emitting elements LD in this specification may refer to the number of light emitting elements LD passing through the second channel 224 or the second branch channel 228.

[0136] According to the embodiment, the counting unit 230 may include a device for acquiring image information. For example, the counting unit 230 may be an image analyzer. The counting unit 230 may be a device using a charge coupled device (CCD). Here, the counting unit 230 may capture the light emitting device LD passing through the second branch channel 228, and the captured image (or video) may include information regarding the number of the light emitting device LD. The information regarding the number of the light emitting device LD may mean data information for calculating the number (or amount) of the light emitting device LD. According to an example, the control unit 50 may calculate the number (or amount) of the light emitting device LD from the information regarding the number of the light emitting device LD.

[0137] However, the counting unit 230 is not limited to the above example, and may be implemented in various ways. For example, the counting unit 230 may be implemented using any one of a laser diffraction method, a dynamic light scattering method, and an electronic sensing method.

[0138] The opening and closing portion 240 may be disposed between the second channel 224 and the mixing chamber 250. The opening and closing portion 240 may be disposed between the second branch channel 228 and the mixing chamber 250.

[0139] According to an embodiment, the opening / closing unit 240 may have an open state or a closed state. The pose of the opening / closing unit 240 may be changed from the open state to the closed state, or from the closed state to the open state. The control unit 50 may control the pose of the opening / closing unit 240 to be changed.

[0140] According to the embodiment, in the open state, the opening / closing unit 240 may not separate the second channel 224 and the mixing chamber 250 from each other. In the open state, the opening / closing unit 240 is provided to fluidly connect the second channel 224 and the mixing chamber 250 to each other, and the light emitting device LD may be provided in the mixing chamber 250.

[0141] According to an embodiment, in the closed state, the opening / closing unit 240 may separate the second channel 224 and the mixing chamber 250 from each other. In the closed state, the opening / closing unit 240 may fluidly block the second channel 224 and the mixing chamber 250 from each other, so that the light emitting element LD is not provided to the mixing chamber 250.

[0142] According to the embodiment, the opening / closing unit 240 may be implemented in a shutter type, but is not limited thereto. The shape and operation method of the opening / closing unit 240 may be implemented using a technology that makes it difficult for a substance or fluid to move.

[0143] According to the embodiment, whether or not to operate the opening / closing unit 240 can be determined based on information regarding the number of light-emitting elements LD obtained from the counting unit 230. For example, the control unit 50 can determine whether or not there is a need to increase or decrease the number of light-emitting elements LD based on the information regarding the light-emitting elements LD obtained from the counting unit 230.

[0144] For example, when the control unit 50 determines that the number of the light emitting elements LD needs to be increased, the opening / closing unit 240 may open the second channel 224 to allow the light emitting elements LD to move to the mixing chamber 250. When the control unit 50 determines that the number of the light emitting elements LD needs to be decreased, the opening / closing unit 240 may close the second channel 224 to prevent the light emitting elements LD from moving to the mixing chamber 250.

[0145] According to an embodiment, the control unit 50 may perform a first operation when receiving a first number signal from the counting unit 230. When the first number signal is provided, the control unit 50 may control the opening / closing unit 240 to maintain a closed state or to change the opening / closing unit 240 from an open state to a closed state. According to an embodiment, the control unit 50 may not perform a separate operation on the opening / closing unit 240 when the first number signal is provided. Here, the first number signal may mean a number signal indicating that a larger number of light emitting elements LD than a reference number of light emitting elements LD pass through the second branch channel 228.

[0146] According to an embodiment, the control unit 50 may perform a second operation when receiving a second number signal from the counting unit 230. When the second number signal is provided, the control unit 50 may control the gate unit 240 to maintain an open state or to change the gate unit 240 from a closed state to an open state. According to an embodiment, the control unit 50 may not perform a separate operation on the gate unit 240 when the second number signal is provided. Here, the second number signal may mean a number signal indicating that a smaller number of the light emitting elements LD than a reference number of the light emitting elements LD pass through the second branch channel 228.

[0147] The mixing chamber 250 may be disposed in a lower portion of the print head unit 20 within the housing 210. The mixing chamber 250 may be disposed between the first channel 222 and the second channel 224 and the nozzle portion 260. The mixing chamber 250 may be disposed between the nozzle portion 260 and the first branch channel 226. The mixing chamber 250 may be disposed between the nozzle portion 260 and the second branch channel 228.

[0148] According to an embodiment, the mixing chamber 250 may include a space for containing a fluid. For example, ink INK may be provided in the mixing chamber 250 before being provided on the substrate 100.

[0149] According to the embodiment, the mixing chamber 250 may be connected to the first channel 222 and the second channel 224. For example, the mixing chamber 250 may be connected to the first channel 222 to provide a solvent SLV, and connected to the second channel 224 to provide a light emitting device LD. Thus, the solvent SLV and the light emitting device LD are mixed to provide an ink INK for manufacturing a display device according to the embodiment.

[0150] According to an embodiment, the mixing chamber 250 may be fluidly coupled (or in communication) with at least one of the first branch channels 226 and at least one of the second branch channels 228, respectively.

[0151] According to an embodiment, there may be a plurality of mixing chambers 250. Each of the mixing chambers 250 may correspond to at least one of the nozzle units 260.

[0152] The nozzle unit 260 may be disposed at a lower portion of the mixing chamber 250. The nozzle unit 260 may determine a flow direction of the fluid. The nozzle unit 260 may connect the outside of the print head unit 20 to the mixing chamber 250. The ink INK accommodated in the mixing chamber 250 may be provided (or discharged) to the outside through the nozzle unit 260. According to an example, the nozzle unit 260 may have a generally tubular shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0153] The counting unit 230 and the movement guiding unit 290 according to the embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0154] Figures 8 and 9 are enlarged views of the EA1 region in Figure 7. Figure 8 is a diagram showing the structure of counting unit 230 according to one embodiment. Figure 9 is a diagram showing the structure of counting unit 230 according to one embodiment.

[0155] First, referring to FIG. 8, the counting unit 230 is adjacent to the second channel 224 (or the second branch channel 228) and can obtain information regarding the number of light emitting elements LD.

[0156] According to the embodiment, the counting unit 230 is disposed above the opening / closing unit 240 and can count the number of the light emitting elements LD before the light emitting elements LD move to the mixing chamber 250. The counting unit 230 can obtain information provided to determine the number of the light emitting elements LD and transmit the information to the control unit 50.

[0157] According to the embodiment, the control unit 50 may calculate the number of the light emitting elements LD passing through the second branch channel 228 corresponding to the counting unit 230, based on the information regarding the number of the light emitting elements LD transmitted from the counting unit 230. For example, the control unit 50 may obtain the number of the light emitting elements LD passing through the position of the second branch channel 228 between a first time point and a second time point subsequent to the first time point.

[0158] According to the embodiment, the control unit 50 can determine whether to open or close the opening / closing unit 240 based on the information regarding the number of the light emitting elements LD transmitted from the counting unit 230.

[0159] For example, the control unit 50 may store a numerical range of the light emitting element LD. In some embodiments, the numerical range may be stored in a separately provided storage unit. When the number of the light emitting element LD acquired based on the information provided from the counting unit 230 is smaller than the predetermined numerical range of the light emitting element LD, the control unit 50 may maintain the opening / closing unit 240 in an open state or change the opening / closing unit 240 from a closed state to an open state. When the number of the light emitting element LD acquired based on the information provided from the counting unit 230 is larger than the numerical range of the light emitting element LD, the control unit 50 may maintain the opening / closing unit 240 in a closed state or change the opening / closing unit 240 from an open state to a closed state.

[0160] As a result, the number of the light emitting elements LD can be appropriately selected from a numerical range required in the process. As described above, before the light emitting elements LD are moved to the mixing chamber 250, the counting unit 230 acquires information regarding the number of the light emitting elements LD, thereby adjusting the number of the light emitting elements LD in the ink INK provided in the mixing chamber 250. As a result, the number of the light emitting elements LD provided on the substrate 100 can be appropriately selected, the process cost can be reduced, and the amount (or ratio) of the light emitting elements LD for each region of the pixel PXL can be uniformly provided.

[0161] Referring to FIG. 9, the second branch channel 228 and the movement guide 290 according to one embodiment will be described.

[0162] According to an embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second branch channel 228 may vary along the length of the second branch channel 228. The second branch channel 228 may have a generally funnel shape. For example, the second branch channel 228 may have a smaller cross-sectional area adjacent to the mixing chamber 250. The second branch channel 228 may have a smaller cross-sectional area adjacent to the opening / closing portion 240.

[0163] According to an embodiment, it is possible to efficiently change the position of the light emitting element LD in the second branch channel 228. For example, the light emitting element LD can move toward the mixing chamber 250 while rotating along the inner surface of the second branch channel 228, thereby improving the movement efficiency of the light emitting element LD.

[0164] According to the embodiment, the transfer guide 290 may be disposed adjacent to a lower end of the second branch channel 228. The transfer guide 290 may be disposed between the second branch channel 228 and the mixing chamber 250.

[0165] According to the embodiment, there may be a plurality of movement guides 290. According to one example, any one of the movement guides 290 may be disposed on one side of the second branch channel 228, and any other one of the movement guides 290 may be disposed on the other side of the second branch channel 228.

[0166] According to the embodiment, the movement guide unit 290 can move the light emitting device LD to the mixing chamber 250. For example, the light emitting device LD can be moved from the second branch channel 228 toward the mixing chamber 250 (or the opening / closing unit 240) along the direction of gravity. The movement guide unit 290 can apply an external force to the light emitting device LD in the direction of gravity to promote the movement of the light emitting device LD. The movement guide unit 290 can apply an external force toward the mixing chamber 250 to the light emitting device LD in the second channel 224.

[0167] According to the embodiment, the movement guide 290 may form an electric field that may be applied to the light emitting device LD. As described above with reference to Figs. 1 and 2, since the light emitting device LD may have polarity, the electric field formed by the movement guide 290 may cause the light emitting device LD to move toward the mixing chamber 250. According to one example, the movement guide 290 may be embodied in the form of an electrode (for example, referred to as an electrode member) to which an electrical signal may be applied.

[0168] A movement guide unit 290 according to one embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is an enlarged view of EA2 in Fig. 7.

[0169] 10, the transfer guide 290 can be disposed in the second channel 224. The transfer guide 290 can be disposed in the second channel 224 between the second body channel 225 and the second reservoir 44.

[0170] According to the embodiment, the position of the movement guide unit 290 may be changed. The movement guide unit 290 may be moved in a push direction. The position of the movement guide unit 290 may be changed in the push direction so that the light emitting element LD is moved within the second channel 224. According to one example, the operation of the movement guide unit 290 may be controlled by the control unit 50, and the movement guide unit 290 may be moved in the push direction, and then moved in a direction opposite to the push direction to be positioned again at the initial position (before moving in the push direction).

[0171] According to an embodiment, the push direction may refer to a direction from the second reservoir 44 toward the second channel 224. The push direction may refer to a direction of gravity. The push direction may refer to a direction fluidically toward the mixing chamber 250.

[0172] According to the embodiment, the movement guide unit 290 may include an actuator. For example, the movement guide unit 290 may be implemented in the form of a piezo actuator, but is not limited to the example given.

[0173] According to the embodiment, the movement guide unit 290 can change the position of the light emitting device LD. When the movement guide unit 290 is moved in the push direction, an external force in a direction corresponding to the push direction may be applied to the light emitting device LD in the second channel 224. Thus, the light emitting device LD may be moved in the second channel 224, and may be moved to the second branch channel 228 of the second channel 224.

[0174] Although not separately shown in FIG. 10, in some embodiments, the movement guide 290 may include an air flow generator.

[0175] According to the embodiment, the movement guide unit 290 can generate an air flow (for example, wind) in the second channel 224. For example, the movement guide unit 290 can include an air flow generating unit having a general propeller shape to provide an air flow to the light emitting element LD.

[0176] According to an embodiment, the light emitting device LD may be moved within the second channel 224 and may be moved to the second branch channel 228 of the second channel 224 by the air flow generated by the movement guide unit 290. The generated air flow may be formed in a fluid direction toward the mixing chamber 250.

[0177] Although not separately shown in FIG. 10, depending on the embodiment, the movement guide portion 290 may include a vibration guide portion.

[0178] According to an embodiment, the movement guide unit 290 may apply vibration to the second channel 224. Thus, the light emitting device LD in the second channel 224 may be moved in a direction toward the mixing chamber 250 by the vibration of the movement guide unit 290.

[0179] The printhead unit 20 and reservoir 40 according to one embodiment will now be described with reference to Figures 11 and 12.

[0180] In the following, the description of the overlapping contents with those described above may be simplified or omitted, and only the differences between the contents of one embodiment and the contents of other embodiments will be described.

[0181] Figures 11 and 12 are schematic cross-sectional views of a printhead unit and reservoir according to one embodiment.

[0182] The alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 11 may differ from the embodiment shown in FIG.

[0183] Referring to FIG. 11, a manufacturing apparatus 1 according to one embodiment can include a separate mixing chamber 251 .

[0184] The individual mixing chambers 251 of the manufacturing apparatus 1 according to an embodiment may include a first mixing chamber 252 and a second mixing chamber 254. The nozzle unit 260 of the manufacturing apparatus 1 according to an embodiment may include a first nozzle unit 262 and a second nozzle unit 264.

[0185] The first mixing chamber 252 may be disposed between the first branch channel 226 and the first nozzle portion 262. The second mixing chamber 254 may be disposed between the second branch channel 228 and the second nozzle portion 264.

[0186] According to the embodiment, the first channel 222 may be connected to a first mixing chamber 252. The first mixing chamber 252 may be fluidly connected to the first branch channel 226. The first mixing chamber 252 may be fluidly connected to a first nozzle portion 262.

[0187] According to the embodiment, the first nozzle unit 262 may be connected to the first mixing chamber 252 and may provide a fluid (or substance) from the first mixing chamber 252. The first nozzle unit 262 may provide the fluid (or substance) contained in the first reservoir 42 to the outside. For example, the first nozzle unit 262 may discharge a solvent SLV to the outside.

[0188] According to an embodiment, the second channel 224 may be connected to a second mixing chamber 254. The second mixing chamber 254 may be fluidly connected to the second branch channel 228. The second mixing chamber 254 may be fluidly connected to a second nozzle portion 264.

[0189] According to the embodiment, the second nozzle unit 264 may be connected to the second mixing chamber 254 and may receive a fluid (or substance) from the second mixing chamber 254. The second nozzle unit 264 may receive a fluid (or substance) contained in the second reservoir 44. For example, the second nozzle unit 264 may discharge the light emitting element ink 500 to the outside.

[0190] According to the embodiment, the second reservoir 44 may contain the light emitting element ink 500. The light emitting element ink 500 may include a fluid and the light emitting element LD dispersed in the fluid. In this case, the fluid may mean substantially the same material as the solvent SLV contained in the ink INK. According to an example, the viscosity of the fluid may be 5cp to 80cp, but is not limited thereto.

[0191] According to the embodiment, the opening / closing unit 240 may adjust the number of ink drops of the light emitting element ink 500. For example, the opening / closing unit 240 may maintain an open state for a first time so that a first amount of ink is contained in the mixing chamber 250, and may maintain an open state for a second time longer than the first time so that a second amount of ink larger than the first amount of ink is contained in the mixing chamber 250.

[0192] According to the embodiment, the first nozzle unit 262 and the second nozzle unit 264 may sequentially eject the respective fluids (or substances) with a time difference from the point. For example, the second nozzle unit 264 may provide the light emitting element ink 500 to the ejection position at a first time point, and the first nozzle unit 262 may provide the solvent SLV to the ejection position at a second time point after the first time point. As a result, the light emitting element ink 500 and the solvent SLV may be mixed at the ejection position after the second time point, and the ink INK may be provided on the substrate 100.

[0193] For example, according to an embodiment, the first nozzle portion 262 can provide a solvent SLV to an ejection position at a first time point, and the second nozzle portion 264 can provide a light-emitting element ink 500 to the ejection position at a second time point that is later than the first time point.

[0194] The embodiment shown in FIG. 12 differs from the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 in that the first reservoir 42 and the second reservoir 44 can be integrated with each other, and the first channel 222 and the second channel 224 can be integrated with each other.

[0195] Referring to FIG. 12, a manufacturing apparatus 1 according to one embodiment can include an integrated reservoir 46 and an integrated channel 320.

[0196] The integrated reservoir 46 can accommodate the ink INK. The integrated reservoir 46 can accommodate the light emitting element LD and the solvent SLV.

[0197] The integrated channel 320 can be fluidly coupled to the integrated reservoir 46. According to one example, ink INK provided from the integrated reservoir 46 can be transferred to the integrated channel 320.

[0198] According to an embodiment, the aggregate channel 320 may include an aggregate body channel 322 and an aggregate branch channel 324 .

[0199] According to an embodiment, the integrated body channel 322 can be connected to the integrated branch channel 324. Thus, the ink INK provided via the integrated body channel 322 can be provided to the integrated branch channel 324, which is connected to the mixing chamber 250.

[0200] According to an embodiment, a plurality of integrating branch channels 324 may be provided and may extend from the integrating body channel 322. Each of the integrating branch channels 324 may be coupled to a respective mixing chamber 250. According to one example, the number of integrating branch channels 324 may be the same as the number of mixing chambers 250.

[0201] According to an embodiment, the counting unit 230 may be disposed on one side of the mixing chamber 250. For example, the counting unit 230 may be disposed on the upper side of the mixing chamber 250 or on one side of the integrating branch channel 324.

[0202] According to the embodiment, the opening / closing unit 240 may be disposed below the mixing chamber 250. The mixing chamber 250 may include a discharge flow path. In this case, the discharge flow path may be opened or closed by the opening / closing unit 240.

[0203] According to the embodiment, when the opening / closing unit 240 is positioned in an open state (for example, when the discharge flow path is opened), the ink INK contained in the mixing chamber 250 can be discharged to the outside through the nozzle unit 260, and when the opening / closing unit 240 is positioned in a closed state (for example, when the discharge flow path is closed), the ink INK contained in the mixing chamber 250 can be prevented from being discharged to the outside through the nozzle unit 260.

[0204] According to the embodiment, the opening / closing unit 240 can open or close the discharge flow path based on information regarding the number of the light-emitting elements LD in the mixing chamber 250 acquired from the counting unit 230. The control unit 50 can calculate the number of the light-emitting elements LD in the mixing chamber 250 from the information regarding the number of the light-emitting elements LD in the mixing chamber 250.

[0205] According to the embodiment, when the number of light emitting devices LD in the mixing chamber 250 is equal to or greater than the number, the opening / closing unit 240 can close the exhaust flow path of the mixing chamber 250. When the number of light emitting devices LD in the mixing chamber 250 is equal to or less than the number, the opening / closing unit 240 can open the exhaust flow path of the mixing chamber 250.

[0206] Hereinafter, a method for manufacturing a display device using the display device manufacturing apparatus 1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0207] Fig. 13 is a flow chart showing a method for manufacturing a display device using the manufacturing apparatus for a display device according to an embodiment. Figs. 14 and 18 are schematic cross-sectional views showing a substrate in the process steps of the method for manufacturing a display device using the manufacturing apparatus for a display device according to an embodiment. Figs. 15 and 16 are schematic cross-sectional views of each process step of the method for manufacturing a display device using the manufacturing apparatus for a display device according to an embodiment. Figs. 17 and 19 are schematic plan views showing the method for manufacturing a display device using the manufacturing apparatus for a display device according to an embodiment.

[0208] Referring to FIG. 13, a manufacturing method of a display device according to an embodiment may include step S120 of preparing a substrate, step S140 of providing ink on the substrate, and step S160 of forming an electric field between a first electrode and a second electrode.

[0209] First, in the step S120 of preparing a substrate, the substrate 100 described above with reference to Fig. 5 may be prepared. Referring to Fig. 14, the substrate 100 may include a base substrate BSL and a pixel circuit unit PCL disposed on the base substrate BSL. Individual components of the pixel circuit unit PCL may be formed by patterning a conductive layer (or a metal layer), an inorganic material, or an organic material, etc., by performing a process using a mask.

[0210] A bank pattern BNP, a first electrode ELT1, a second electrode ELT2, an insulating film INS, a first bank BNK1, and a second bank BNK2 may be arranged on the pixel circuit unit PCL. A region where ink INK can be provided may be formed or arranged in the region between the first bank BNK1 and the second bank BNK2.

[0211] In the step S140 of providing ink on the substrate, ink INK may be provided on the substrate 100. Referring to FIGS.

[0212] 15 to 17 and 18, ink INK can be discharged from the manufacturing apparatus 1 onto the substrate 100. However, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the drawings will be based on the print head unit 20 of the manufacturing apparatus 1, and the explanation will be based on this.

[0213] According to the embodiment, the print head unit 20 can be moved along an operating direction DR_0 to provide ink INK. The operating direction DR_0 can refer to the arrow direction in Figures 15 and 16, as an example.

[0214] According to an embodiment, the print head unit 20 may eject ink INK to a first location at a first time and eject ink INK to a second location at a second time after the first time. In Figures 15 and 16, an embodiment in which the print head unit 20 ejects ink INK at the first time is shown by dashed lines. In Figures 15 and 16, an embodiment in which the print head unit 20 ejects ink INK at the second time is shown by solid lines.

[0215] FIG. 15 illustrates a process of providing ink INK using a print head unit 20 according to one embodiment (FIG. 7) or one embodiment (FIG. 12), and FIG. 17 illustrates a process of providing ink INK using a print head unit 20 according to one embodiment (FIG. 11).

[0216] 15, according to an embodiment, ink INK in a state in which the light emitting element LD and the solvent SLV are mixed may be provided on the substrate 100. Although not shown, the ink INK containing the light emitting element LD and the solvent SLV may be provided in the mixing chamber 250, and may be provided on the substrate 100 as the process is performed.

[0217] 16 , a solvent SLV and a light emitting element ink 500 may be provided on a substrate 100. According to one example, the light emitting element ink 500 may be ejected through the second nozzle portion 264 of the print head unit 20, and the solvent SLV may be ejected through the first nozzle portion 262 of the print head unit 20.

[0218] At this time, the solvent SLV discharged through the first nozzle unit 262 and the light emitting element ink 500 discharged through the second nozzle unit 264 may be provided at the same position (e.g., the ejection position) but at different times. For example, as described above, the print head unit 20 may move along the operating direction DR_0. At this time, the light emitting element ink 500 may be provided to a region where the ink INK is to be provided before the solvent SLV. After the light emitting element ink 500 is provided, the solvent SLV may be provided to the region where the ink INK is to be provided.

[0219] However, without being limited to the above embodiment, depending on the embodiment, the solvent SLV discharged through the first nozzle unit 262 and the light emitting element ink 500 discharged through the second nozzle unit 264 may be provided (or discharged) at the same time. The solvent SLV discharged through the first nozzle unit 262 and the light emitting element ink 500 discharged through the second nozzle unit 264 may be provided at the same time and mixed on the substrate 100. For example, a time period during which the solvent SLV is discharged from the first nozzle unit 262 and a time period during which the light emitting element ink 500 is discharged from the second nozzle unit 264 may at least overlap.

[0220] According to the embodiment, when the second nozzle portion 264 of the print head unit 20 is disposed at a position corresponding to the region to be provided (for example, overlapping on a plane), the light emitting element ink 500 can be provided on the substrate 100. When the print head unit 20 is moved along the operating direction DR_0 and the first nozzle portion 262 of the print head unit 20 is disposed at a position corresponding to the region to be provided, the solvent SLV can be provided on the substrate 100.

[0221] According to the embodiment, the ink INK provided from the print head unit 20 can be accommodated between the first bank BNK1 and the second bank BNK2 (see FIG. 18). The first bank BNK1 and the second bank BNK2 can form an area in which the ink INK can be accommodated.

[0222] According to the embodiment, at least a portion of the ink INK provided from the print head unit 20 may be disposed between the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2 (see FIG. 17). According to one example, at least a portion of the light-emitting elements LD included in the ink INK may be disposed adjacent to the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2. Thus, the light-emitting elements LD may be disposed between the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2, but may be arranged or positioned non-uniformly.

[0223] Thereafter, referring to FIGS. 13 and 19, in the step of forming an electric field (S160), an electric field may be formed or disposed between the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2.

[0224] According to the embodiment, in the current step, an alignment signal may be applied to each of the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2, so that an alignment electric field may be formed or arranged (or provided) between the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2. Due to the formed alignment electric field, the light emitting element LD included in the ink INK may be aligned (or arranged, disposed) between the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2 (see FIG. 19). At this time, an AC signal may be applied between the first electrode ELT1 and the second electrode ELT2. The AC signal may be a sine wave, a triangular wave, a step wave, etc., but is not limited to the given examples, and may have various AC signal forms.

[0225] Thereafter, although not shown separately, the solvent SLV on the substrate 100 may be removed. However, depending on the embodiment, the solvent SLV may be volatilized and removed without performing a separate removal process for the solvent SLV. By performing additional processes, the first contact electrode, the second contact electrode, and other insulating layers may be formed to provide a display device according to the embodiment.

[0226] The above description is merely an illustrative example of the technical idea and scope of the present disclosure, and various modifications and variations may be made by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains without departing from the characteristics of the present disclosure. Therefore, the above-described embodiments may be embodied separately or in combination with each other.

[0227] Therefore, the disclosed embodiments are for illustration purposes only and are not intended to limit the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure should be interpreted by the following claims, and all spirits and scopes within the scope equivalent thereto should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. a first reservoir containing a solvent; a second reservoir housing the light emitting element; a mixing chamber containing the solvent and an ink containing the light emitting element; a first channel connecting the first reservoir and the mixing chamber; a second channel connecting the second reservoir and the mixing chamber; a counter for acquiring information regarding the number of the light-emitting elements moved within the second channel.

2. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first channel and the second channel are fluidically isolated from each other.

3. 3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the first channel and the second channel are manifolds.

4. the first channel includes a first body channel and a first branch channel communicating with the first body channel; 3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the second channel includes a second body channel and a second branch channel communicating with the second body channel.

5. 5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the mixing chamber is fluidly connected to each of the first branch channel and the second branch channel.

6. 5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the counter is adjacent to the second branch channel.

7. a controller electrically connected to the counter; 5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the controller calculates the number of the light emitting elements passing through the second branch channel based on information regarding the number of the light emitting elements.

8. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the counter is embodied as at least one of an image analyzer, a counter performing a laser diffraction method, a counter performing a dynamic light scattering method, and a counter performing an electronic sensing method.

9. The device further includes an opening and closing portion having an open state or a closed state, When the opening and closing portion has the closed state, the second branch channel and the mixing chamber are fluidly blocked; 5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein when the opening / closing unit is in the open state, the second branch channel and the mixing chamber are fluidly connected to each other.

10. a controller electrically connected to the counter; When the controller receives a first number signal from the counter, the opening / closing unit has the open state; 10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the opening and closing unit is in the closed state when the controller receives a second number signal different from the first number signal from the counter.

11. The ink jet head further includes a nozzle portion for discharging the ink, 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the nozzle unit is connected to the mixing chamber.

12. The apparatus according to claim 4 , wherein a cross-sectional area of ​​the second branch channel varies along a length of the second branch channel.

13. The light emitting device further includes a movement guide configured to guide a movement of the light emitting device in the second channel, 5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the movement guide applies an external force to the light emitting device in the second channel toward the mixing chamber.

14. 14. The display device manufacturing apparatus of claim 13, wherein the movement guide is at least one of an electrode member that forms an electric field applied to the light-emitting element, an air flow generator that forms an air flow toward the mixing chamber, and an actuator that applies an external force toward the mixing chamber to the light-emitting element.

15. the mixing chamber includes a first mixing chamber and a second mixing chamber; the first mixing chamber is coupled to the first channel; 3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the second mixing chamber is connected to the second channel.

16. an integrated reservoir containing a light emitting element and a solvent-containing ink; a mixing chamber containing the ink and including an outlet channel through which the ink is discharged; an integration channel connected between the integration reservoir and the mixing chamber; a counter that obtains information regarding the number of the light emitting elements contained in the mixing chamber; and an opening / closing unit that opens or closes the discharge flow path of the mixing chamber based on information regarding the number of the light-emitting elements.

17. A method for manufacturing a display device using a display device manufacturing apparatus, comprising: a first reservoir for containing a solvent; a second reservoir for containing a light emitting element; a mixing chamber for containing an ink including the solvent and the light emitting element; a first channel connecting the first reservoir and the mixing chamber; a second channel connecting the second reservoir and the mixing chamber; and a counter for acquiring information regarding the number of the light emitting elements moved within the second channel, providing a substrate, the substrate including a base substrate and a first electrode and a second electrode disposed on the base substrate; providing ink on the substrate; forming an electric field between the first electrode and the second electrode; providing the ink includes disposing at least a portion of the ink provided from a mixing chamber between the first electrode and the second electrode; 4. A method for manufacturing a display device, wherein the step of forming an electric field includes a step of disposing the light-emitting element between the first electrode and the second electrode.

18. The display device manufacturing apparatus includes an opening / closing unit having an open state or a closed state, the first channel includes a first body channel and a first branch channel communicating with the first body channel; the second channel includes a second body channel and a second branch channel communicating with the second body channel; When the opening and closing portion has the closed state, the second branch channel and the mixing chamber are fluidly blocked; 18. The method of claim 17, wherein when the opening / closing unit has the open state, the second branch channel and the mixing chamber are fluidly connected to each other.

19. the mixing chamber includes a first mixing chamber containing a solvent and a second mixing chamber containing a light emitting element ink; The light emitting element ink includes a fluid and the light emitting element dispersed in the fluid, the first mixing chamber is coupled to the first channel; the second mixing chamber is coupled to the second channel; The step of providing the ink comprises: providing the solvent contained within the first mixing chamber to an injection location at a first time; 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising: providing the light-emitting element ink contained in the second mixing chamber to the ejection position at a second time point that is different from the first time point.

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