Display device and electronic device including the same

Abstract

A display device according to the present invention comprises a base layer including light-emitting regions and non-light-emitting regions, a pixel defining film disposed on the base layer and having pixel openings defined that overlap the light-emitting regions, and a light-emitting element disposed in the pixel openings. The display panel comprises a light control layer disposed on the display panel and having a light-blocking pattern, wherein the light-blocking pattern may include extensions arranged along a second direction that intersects the first direction and overlaps the light-emitting regions and non-light-emitting regions, and connection portions disposed between adjacent extensions that overlap the non-light-emitting regions.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a display device, and more specifically, to a display device comprising a light control layer that controls the direction of light extraction. Background Technology

[0003] Display devices are being developed for use in various devices such as televisions, mobile phones, tablets, and vehicles. Depending on usage environments where information must be protected or safety regulations, there is a requirement to limit the viewing angle of display devices. Accordingly, research is being conducted on the stacked structures of display devices and optical components included in the devices to limit the viewing angle. The problem to be solved

[0005] The objective of the present invention is to provide a display device that controls the viewing angle by reducing light extraction in the wide viewing angle direction.

[0006] In addition, another objective of the present invention is to improve the reliability of the display device by preventing defects in the light-shielding pattern included in the display device while minimizing the reduction in brightness of the display device. means of solving the problem

[0008] A display device according to the present invention comprises a base layer including light-emitting regions and non-light-emitting regions, a pixel defining film disposed on the base layer and having pixel openings defined that overlap the light-emitting regions, a display panel including light-emitting elements disposed in the pixel openings, and a light control layer disposed on the display panel and having a light-blocking pattern, wherein the light-blocking pattern may include extensions arranged along a second direction that extends along a first direction and overlaps the light-emitting regions and the non-light-emitting regions and intersects the first direction, and at least one connecting portion disposed between the extensions that overlap the non-light-emitting regions and are adjacent to each other.

[0009] The above connecting parts may extend in a direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0010] The above connecting parts extend in an extension direction intersecting the first direction, and a straight line parallel to the first direction and a straight line parallel to the extension direction of the connecting parts may form an acute angle with each other.

[0011] The light control layers are provided in plurality, and the light control layers are sequentially arranged in a direction away from the display panel, and the number of the light control layers is 2 or more and 5 or less, and the light-blocking patterns included in the light control layers can overlap each other on a plane.

[0012] The luminance at 35° relative to the second direction may be 5% or less of the luminance in the front direction of the display panel.

[0013] The above extensions and the above connecting parts may be formed through the same process and may contain the same material.

[0014] The above extensions may be spaced apart from each other at a predetermined distance in the second direction, and the above connecting parts may be spaced apart from each other at a predetermined distance in the first direction.

[0015] The light-emitting element includes first type light-emitting elements and second type light-emitting elements, and the light-emitting region includes a first-1 light-emitting region, a second-1 light-emitting region, a third-1 light-emitting region in which light is emitted by the first type light-emitting elements, and a first-2 light-emitting region, a second-2 light-emitting region, and a third-2 light-emitting region in which light is emitted by the second type light-emitting elements, wherein the first-1 light-emitting region may have a larger planar area than the first-2 light-emitting region, the second-1 light-emitting region may have a larger planar area than the second-2 light-emitting region, and the third-1 light-emitting region may have a larger planar area than the third-2 light-emitting region.

[0016] It may be possible to switch to a first mode in which only the first type light-emitting elements operate, or a second mode in which the first type light-emitting elements do not operate and only the second type light-emitting elements operate.

[0017] It includes a light-blocking barrier disposed on the pixel definition film and surrounding at least a portion of each of the first-2 light-emitting region, the second-2 light-emitting region, and the third-2 light-emitting region on a plane, wherein the light-blocking barrier may be formed through the same process as the light-blocking pattern and may include the same material.

[0018] The above-mentioned light-emitting region includes a first light-emitting region that emits red light, a second light-emitting region that emits green light, and a third light-emitting region that emits blue light, and the light-blocking pattern may further include a first extension connecting part and a second extension connecting part arranged side by side in the second direction so that three adjacent extension parts are connected in succession.

[0019] The light-blocking pattern may further include a second extension connecting part comprising a first extension connecting part, a second extension connecting part, and a third extension connecting part arranged side by side in the second direction so that four adjacent extension parts are connected in succession.

[0020] The above display panel includes the light-emitting elements and unit pixels arranged along the first direction, the width of the unit pixels in the first direction is defined as a unit pitch, and the second extension connecting portions may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction with a spacing of at least 1 unit pitch and at least 4 unit pitches.

[0021] A display device according to the present invention comprises a display panel including a display area and a non-display area adjacent to the display area, a first light control layer disposed on the display panel and including a light-blocking pattern and an insulating layer covering the light-blocking pattern, wherein the light-blocking pattern includes extensions that extend along a first direction and are arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction and disposed in the display area, and first outer connecting parts disposed in the non-display area and connected to the ends of the extensions, and the width of each of the first outer connecting parts may be greater than the width of each of the extensions.

[0022] The first outer connecting parts are formed through the same process as the extension parts and may contain the same material.

[0023] The light-blocking pattern may further include second outer connections that extend along the first direction, are placed in the non-display area, and are connected to the ends of the first outer connections.

[0024] The first outer connecting portions may have a width of 1400 µm or more and 1600 µm or less in the first direction, and the second outer connecting portion may have a width of 2100 µm or more and 2300 µm or less in the second direction.

[0025] An electronic device according to the present invention may include a base layer comprising light-emitting regions and non-light-emitting regions, a pixel defining film disposed on the base layer and having pixel openings defined that overlap the light-emitting regions, a display panel comprising a light-emitting element disposed in the pixel opening, and a light control layer disposed on the display panel and having a light-blocking pattern, wherein the light-blocking pattern comprises extensions arranged along a second direction that overlaps the light-emitting regions and the non-light-emitting regions and intersects the first direction, and connection portions disposed between adjacent extensions that overlap the non-light-emitting regions and the second direction, an electronic module that provides an electrical signal to the display device, and a window module disposed on the display device.

[0026] The light control layers are provided in plurality, and the light control layers are arranged sequentially in a direction away from the display panel, and the number of the light control layers may be 2 or more and 5 or less.

[0027] It may further include power supply modules such as power adapters or battery devices, and can be applied inside transportation devices such as vehicles. Effects of the invention

[0029] The display device according to the present invention may have controlled side viewing angle characteristics.

[0030] In addition, the display device according to the present invention can prevent defects from occurring in the light-blocking pattern while also preventing a decrease in the brightness of the display device. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0032] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to the present invention. FIGS. 2a and FIGS. 2b are schematic diagrams of electronic devices according to various embodiments. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a part of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5a is an enlarged plan view of one area of ​​FIG. 4. Figure 5b is a cross-sectional view corresponding to line I-I' of Figure 5a. FIG. 5c is a cross-sectional view corresponding to line II-II' of FIG. 5a. FIG. 6a is a plan view showing a portion of a display device according to a comparative example. FIG. 6b is a plan view showing a part of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6c is a schematic diagram showing regions 1 to 3 according to the present invention. FIG. 7 is a plan view showing a part of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a plan view showing a part of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a plan view showing a part of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10a is a plan view showing a part of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10b is a cross-sectional view corresponding to line III-III' of FIG. 10a. FIG. 11a is a plan view showing a part of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11b is a cross-sectional view corresponding to line IV-IV' of FIG. 11a. FIG. 12 is a plan view showing a part of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a plan view showing a part of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a plan view showing a part of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a plan view of an enlarged area of ​​FIG. 14. FIGS. 16 and 17 are each plan views of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a plan view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 19 is a plan view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0033] The present invention is capable of various modifications and may take various forms, and specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the text. However, this is not intended to limit the invention to the specific disclosed forms, and it should be understood that the invention includes all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0034] In this specification, where a component (or region, layer, part, etc.) is described as being “on,” “connected,” or “joined” another component, it means that it may be directly placed / connected / joined on the other component, or that a third component may be placed between them.

[0035] Identical reference numerals denote identical components. Additionally, in the drawings, the thicknesses, proportions, and dimensions of components are exaggerated for the effective illustration of the technical content. “And / or” includes all one or more combinations that the associated components may define.

[0036] Terms such as "first," "second," etc., may be used to describe various components, but said components should not be limited by said terms. These terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, the first component may be named the second component, and similarly, the second component may be named the first component. A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0037] Additionally, terms such as “below,” “lower,” “above,” and “upper” are used to describe the relationships between the components depicted in the drawings. These terms are relative concepts and are described based on the directions indicated in the drawings.

[0038] Terms such as "include" or "have" are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood as not precluding the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0039] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Furthermore, terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and should not be interpreted in an overly ideal or formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0040] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0042] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to the present invention.

[0043] The electronic device according to the present invention may be provided in various forms. The electronic device according to the present invention may further include modules or devices having other additional functions.

[0044] Referring to FIG. 1, an electronic device (ED) according to one embodiment may include a display device (DD), a processor (PR), a memory (MR), and a power module (PM). In this specification, a module that provides or receives an electrical signal to the display device (DD) may be collectively referred to as an "electronic module."

[0045] The processor (PR) may include at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor (AP), a graphic processing unit (GPU), a communication processor (CP), an image signal processor (ISP), and a controller.

[0046] The memory (MR) may store data information necessary for the operation of the processor (PR) or the display device (DD). When the processor (PR) executes an application stored in the memory (MR), an image data signal and / or an input control signal are transmitted to the display device (DD), and the display device (DD) can process the received signal and output image information through the display screen.

[0047] The power module (PM) may include a power supply module, such as a power adapter or battery device, and a power conversion module that converts the power supplied by the power supply module to generate power required for the operation of an electronic device (ED).

[0048] Some of the individual modules that are functionally included within a single module may be included within the display device (DD), while others may be provided within the electronic device (ED) separately from the display device (DD).

[0050] FIGS. 2a and FIGS. 2b are schematic diagrams of electronic devices according to various embodiments.

[0051] FIG. 2b may be a drawing showing the interior of a vehicle in which an electronic device of one embodiment is installed.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 2a, the electronic device according to various embodiments may be an image display electronic device such as a smartphone (ED-1a), a tablet PC (ED-1b), a laptop (ED-1c), a TV (ED-1d), a desk monitor (ED-1e), as well as a wearable electronic device including a display module such as smart glasses (ED-2a), a head-mounted display (ED-2b), a smart watch (ED-2c).

[0053] In addition, the electronic device according to various embodiments may be applied inside a transport device, such as a vehicle, to provide various information to a user through images. For example, the electronic device according to the present invention may be provided in the form of a vehicle electronic device (ED-3) including a display module such as a CID (Center Information Display) and a room mirror display placed on the instrument panel, center fascia, or dashboard of a vehicle.

[0054] FIG. 2b illustrates, as an example, a state in which a first electronic device (ED-PS) and a second electronic device (ED-CT) are placed inside a vehicle (AM). The electronic devices (ED-CT, ED-PS) of one embodiment are placed inside the vehicle (AM) and can provide various information to a user in the driver's seat (DRS) or passenger seat (PSS).

[0055] The electronic device (ED-CT, ED-PS) can display an image on a display surface (IS). The display surface (IS) on which the image is displayed may correspond to the front surface of the electronic device (ED-CT, ED-PS). The image may include a still image as well as a dynamic image.

[0056] The display surface (IS) may be parallel to each of the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2) that intersects the first direction (DR1). However, the embodiments are not limited thereto, and the display surface (IS) of the electronic device (ED-CT, ED-PS) may include a curved surface reflecting the design of the vehicle interior, or may include a plane and an inclined plane defined by the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2).

[0057] The normal direction of the display surface (IS), that is, the thickness direction of the electronic device (ED-CT, ED-PS), is indicated by the third direction (DR3). In this specification, the first direction (DR1) may be referred to as the "left-right direction," the second direction (DR2) may be referred to as the "up-down direction," and the third direction (DR3) may be referred to as the "thickness direction."

[0058] In this specification, the front (or top) and back (or bottom) surfaces of the components constituting the electronic device (ED, see FIG. 1) may be defined with respect to a third direction (DR3). The front (or top) and back (or bottom) surfaces of each component constituting the electronic device (ED) may be opposed to each other in the third direction (DR3), and the normal direction of each of the front and back surfaces may be substantially parallel to the third direction (DR3). The distance between the front and back surfaces defined along the third direction (DR3) may correspond to the thickness of the component.

[0059] Additionally, in this specification, "in a plane" may be defined as a state viewed from a third direction (DR3). In this specification, "in a cross-section" may be defined as a state viewed from a first direction (DR1) or a second direction (DR2).

[0060] FIG. 2b illustrates, by way of example, that the display surface (IS) has a rectangular shape on a plane. This is illustrated by way of example, and the display surface (IS) may have various shapes and is not limited to any one embodiment.

[0061] In this specification, the electronic device (ED, see FIG. 1) may be capable of switching between a “first mode” and a “second mode”. The viewing angles provided by the electronic device (ED, see FIG. 1) in the first mode and the second mode may be different from each other.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 2b, a first electronic device (ED-PS) may be positioned facing the passenger seat (PSS). The first electronic device (ED-PS) can display information necessary during driving, such as vehicle status information, vehicle interior operation information, and navigation information, as well as various information unrelated to driving.

[0063] However, for safety reasons, the image displayed on the first electronic device (ED-PS) needs not be transmitted to the user in the driver's seat (DRS) while driving. That is, it may be desirable to control the range of the side viewing angle in which the image displayed on the first electronic device (ED-PS) is visible, taking into account the gaze range of the user in the driver's seat (DRS), so as not to affect the driver.

[0064] For example, the first electronic device (ED-PS) may have a viewing angle in the left-right direction in the second mode that is smaller than the viewing angle in the left-right direction in the first mode. The image of the first electronic device (ED-PS) may be visible to the driver in the first mode and not visible to the driver in the second mode. Accordingly, the first electronic device (ED-PS) can provide an image with high visibility to the user without interfering with the driver by limiting the light path by the light control layer (CCL, see FIG. 3) described later.

[0065] The second electronic device (ED-CT) may be a Center Information Display (CID). The second electronic device (ED-CT) may be mounted on the dashboard between the Driver's Seat (DRS) and the Passenger Seat (PSS). The second electronic device (ED-CT) can comprehensively display various information to the user of the Driver's Seat (DRS) or the Passenger Seat (PSS).

[0066] In the case of the second electronic device (ED-CT), it may be necessary to limit the viewing angle in the vertical direction (e.g., the second direction (DR2)). When the image displayed by the second electronic device (ED-CT) is displayed over a wide angle range in the vertical direction, light emitted from the second electronic device (ED-CT) may reach the vehicle's front windshield (WSD) and generate reflected light. In this case, the user's field of vision may be obstructed by the reflected light. In one embodiment, the second electronic device (ED-CT) of the vehicle (AM) may limit the vertical light path by the light control layer (CCL, see FIG. 3) described later, thereby reducing the light transmitted to the front windshield (WSD) and providing the user with an image with high visibility.

[0067] For example, the second electronic device (ED-CT) may include a limitation on the viewing angle in the vertical direction in the first mode and the second mode. However, it is not limited thereto, and the limitation on the viewing angle in the first mode or the second mode may include a limitation on the viewing angle in the vertical and horizontal directions.

[0068] However, in the process of forming the light control layer (CCL, see FIG. 3), since a fine pattern that limits the viewing angle must be formed without reducing the user's visibility, defects may occur during the manufacturing process of the light control layer (CCL, see FIG. 3). According to the electronic device of the present embodiment, it is possible to effectively prevent tearing of a part of the light-shielding patterns (BM, see FIG. 5b) during the formation process of the light-shielding patterns (BM, see FIG. 5b) included in the light control layer (CCL, see FIG. 3).

[0070] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device of one embodiment.

[0071] The electronic device (ED) may include a display device (DD) and a window module (WM). The window module (WM) may be placed on the display device (DD).

[0072] The window module (WM) may be placed on the display device (DD) and cover the display device (DD). The front surface of the window module (WM) may define the display surface (IS) of the electronic device (ED). The window module (WM) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the display device (DD).

[0073] The window module (WM) may include a substrate or film comprising glass or a polymer material. Additionally, the window module (WM) may further include a functional layer, such as a protective film, disposed on the upper side of the base substrate or film. The window module (WM) may further include an adhesive layer for coupling with a display device (DD). For example, the adhesive layer may be an optical clear adhesive. However, in an electronic device (ED) according to one embodiment, the window module (WM) may be omitted.

[0074] The display device (DD) may include a display panel (DP) and a light control layer (CCL).

[0075] The display panel (DP) may be a configuration that substantially generates an image. The display panel (DP) included in the electronic device (ED) according to the present embodiment may be an organic light-emitting display panel, an inorganic light-emitting display panel, an organic-inorganic light-emitting display panel, a quantum dot display panel, a micro LED display panel, a nano LED display panel, etc. In the present embodiment, the case where the display panel (DP) is an organic light-emitting display panel will be described as an example. However, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0076] The display panel (DP) may include a base layer (BL), a circuit element layer (DP-CL), a display element layer (DP-ED), an encapsulation layer (TFE), and an input sensing layer (ISL).

[0077] In a display panel (DP), the base layer (BL) may be a member that provides a base surface on which a display element layer (DP-ED) is placed. The base layer (BL) may be rigid or flexible. The base layer (BL) may be a glass substrate, a metal substrate, or a polymer substrate, etc. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto, and the base layer (BL) may be an inorganic layer, an organic layer, or a composite material layer.

[0078] The base layer (BL) may have a multilayer structure as well as a single-layer structure. For example, the base layer (BL) may have a three-layer structure consisting of a polymer resin layer, an adhesive layer, and a polymer resin layer. In particular, the polymer resin layer may include a polyimide-based resin. Additionally, the polymer resin layer may include at least one of an acrylate-based resin, a vinyl-based resin, an epoxy-based resin, a urethane-based resin, a cellulose-based resin, a siloxane-based resin, and a perylene-based resin. Meanwhile, in this specification, "~~-based" resin means that it includes a functional group of "~~".

[0079] A circuit element layer (DP-CL) may be disposed on a base layer (BL). The circuit element layer (DP-CL) may include an insulating layer, a semiconductor pattern, a conductive pattern, and a signal line, etc. The circuit element layer (DP-CL) may include a plurality of transistors (not shown) formed by the semiconductor pattern, the conductive pattern, and the signal line, etc. Each of the transistors (not shown) may include a control electrode, an input electrode, and an output electrode. For example, the circuit element layer (DP-CL) may include a switching transistor and a driving transistor for driving a light-emitting element (OLED, see FIG. 5c).

[0080] A display element layer (DP-ED) may be disposed on a circuit element layer (DP-CL). Light generated in the display element layer (DP-ED) may pass through a light control layer (CCL) above the display element layer (DP-ED) and be emitted to the upper surface of an electronic device (ED). The display element layer (DP-ED) may include a light-emitting element (OLED, see FIG. 5c).

[0081] The encapsulation layer (TFE) can be disposed on the display element layer (DP-ED). The encapsulation layer (TFE) can function to prevent foreign substances, such as moisture and oxygen, from penetrating into the display element layer (DP-ED). The encapsulation layer (TFE) may have a structure in which organic and inorganic layers are alternately stacked.

[0082] A light control layer (CCL) may be disposed on a display element layer (DP-ED). The light control layer (CCL) may control the light extraction direction of light emitted from the display element layer (DP-ED). An electronic device (ED) according to one embodiment may include a light control layer (CCL) to restrict light widely emitted in the "left-right direction" or light widely emitted in the "up-down direction," thereby exhibiting high brightness and excellent display quality within a limited viewing angle range.

[0083] The electronic device (ED) may include a display area (DA) and a non-display area (NDA) adjacent to the display area (DA). In the present embodiment, the non-display area (NDA) may be an area surrounding the display area (DA). However, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. For example, the non-display area (NDA) may be omitted.

[0084] The input sensing layer (ISL) may be positioned below the optical control layer (CCL). The input sensing layer (ISL) may acquire coordinate information of an external input. The input sensing layer (ISL) may detect the external input using a capacitive method, an electromagnetic induction method, or a pressure sensing method.

[0086] FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a part of the display device according to the present embodiment.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 4, a display device (DD) according to the present embodiment may include a light-emitting region (LA) and a non-light-emitting region (NLA) adjacent to the light-emitting region (LA). The light-emitting region (LA) may be defined as an area where the upper surface of a first electrode (AE) is exposed by a pixel opening (OH, see FIG. 5b) to be described later. The light-emitting region (LA) may include first light-emitting regions (LA1-1, LA1-2), second light-emitting regions (LA2-1, LA2-1), and third light-emitting regions (LA3-1, LA3-2).

[0088] In this embodiment, the first light-emitting regions (LA1-1, LA1-2) may be red light-emitting regions that emit red light, the second light-emitting regions (LA2-1, LA2-2) may be green light-emitting regions that emit green light, and the third light-emitting regions (LA3-1, LA3-2) may be blue light-emitting regions that emit blue light. However, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. For example, the display device (DD) may further include a white light-emitting region that emits white light.

[0090] In this embodiment, the first light-emitting region (LA1) may include a first-1 light-emitting region (LA1-1) and a first-2 light-emitting region (LA1-2). The second light-emitting region (LA2) may include a second-1 light-emitting region (LA2-1) and a second-2 light-emitting region (LA2-2). The third light-emitting region (LA3) may include a third-1 light-emitting region (LA3-1) and a third-2 light-emitting region (LA3-2). The first-1 light-emitting region (LA1-1) may have a larger planar area than the first-2 light-emitting region (LA1-2), the second-1 light-emitting region (LA2-1) may have a larger planar area than the second-2 light-emitting region (LA2-2), and the third-1 light-emitting region (LA3-1) may have a larger planar area than the third-2 light-emitting region (LA3-2).

[0091] In this embodiment, the light-emitting element (OLED, see FIG. 5c) may include a "first type light-emitting element" and a "second type light-emitting element." In this case, the first-1 light-emitting region (LA1-1), the second-1 light-emitting region (LA2-1), and the third-1 light-emitting region (LA3-1) may each be a region where light is emitted by the "first type light-emitting element." The first-2 light-emitting region (LA1-2), the second-2 light-emitting region (LA2-2), and the third-2 light-emitting region (LA3-2) may each be a region where light is emitted by the "second type light-emitting element."

[0093] The "first type light-emitting element" and the "second type light-emitting element" can be driven differently from each other. For example, in the first electronic device (ED-PS, see FIG. 2b), both the "first type light-emitting element" and the "second type light-emitting element" may operate in the first mode, and in the second mode, the "first type light-emitting element" may not operate and only the "second type light-emitting element" may operate.

[0094] Additionally, the second electronic device (ED-CT, see FIG. 2b) may have both the "first type light-emitting element" and the "second type light-emitting element" operating in the first mode and the second mode, or only the "first type light-emitting element" operating, or only the "second type light-emitting element" operating.

[0095] However, the driving of the first and second type light-emitting elements is not limited thereto and can be modified to be driven differently as needed. Accordingly, the electronic device according to the present invention (ED, see FIG. 1) can adjust visibility in the driver's seat (DRS, see FIG. 2b) and the passenger seat (PSS, see FIG. 2b).

[0096] The non-luminous region (NLA) can be defined as the area excluding the luminous region (LA) within the display area (DA, see FIG. 3). The non-luminous region (NLA) can also be referred to as the "peripheral region." The peripheral region (NLA) can be placed around the luminous region (LA). The peripheral region (NLA) can define the boundary of the luminous region (LA).

[0097] In this embodiment, pixel units (PXU) may be arranged in a first direction (DR1) and a second direction (DR2) in a display area (DA, see FIG. 3). The pixel units (PXU) may define pixel rows and pixel columns.

[0098] A pixel unit (PXU) may include at least one pixel. The pixel unit (PXU) may include a first pixel, a second pixel, and a third pixel that emit light in different wavelength regions. Red light, green light, and blue light may be output from the first pixel, the second pixel, and the third pixel, respectively.

[0099] The width of the pixel unit (PXU) in the first direction (DR1) can be defined as the "unit pitch (W-PU)". This will be described later.

[0100] In the present embodiment, the first light-emitting regions (LA1-1, LA1-2) may be regions where light generated from the first pixel is provided to the outside, the second light-emitting regions (LA2-1, LA2-2) may be regions where light generated from the second pixel is provided to the outside, and the third light-emitting regions (LA3-1, LA3-2) may be regions where light generated from the third pixel is provided to the outside. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the types and number of light-emitting regions constituting a single pixel unit (PXU) may vary depending on the display quality required by the display device.

[0102] FIG. 5a is an enlarged plan view of one area of ​​FIG. 4. FIG. 5b is a cross-sectional view corresponding to line I-I' of FIG. 5a. FIG. 5c is a cross-sectional view corresponding to line II-II' of FIG. 5a.

[0103] For convenience of explanation, FIG. 5a illustrates a first light-blocking pattern (BM1) included in a first light-control layer (CCL1), and the shapes of the second to fourth light-blocking patterns (BM2, BM3, BM4, see FIG. 5b) are omitted. However, the description of the first light-blocking pattern (BM1) with reference to FIG. 5a to 6b can be applied identically or similarly to the second to fourth light-blocking patterns (BM2, BM3, BM4, see FIG. 5b), and redundant descriptions will be omitted. Hereinafter, the arrangement relationship of the light-control layer and the light-emitting regions will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0104] FIG. 5a is a diagram showing the arrangement relationship of a light-emitting region (LA) and a first light-blocking pattern (BM1). FIG. 5b may be part of a cross-sectional view of a display device along line I-I' of FIG. 5a. For convenience of explanation, the window module (WM, see FIG. 3) is omitted in FIG. 5b, and the specific configuration of the input sensing layer (ISL) is omitted.

[0105] Referring to FIG. 5a and FIG. 5b together, the display element layer (DP-ED) may include a pixel defining film (PDL) in which a pixel opening (OH) is defined and a light-emitting element (ED-1) disposed in the pixel opening (OH). The light-emitting element (OLED) may include a first electrode (EL1), a second electrode (EL2), a capping layer (CPL) disposed on the second electrode (EL2), a hole transport layer (HTR) disposed between the first electrode (EL1) and the second electrode (EL2), a light-emitting layer (EML-R), and an electron transport layer (ETR).

[0106] The first electrode (EL1) may be exposed by the pixel opening (OH). The area where the first electrode (EL1) is exposed by the pixel opening (OH) may be defined as a light-emitting area (LA, see FIG. 4).

[0107] A light control layer (CCL) can be disposed on a display panel (DP). In the present invention, the light control layer (CCL) may be provided in multiple layers. If the light control layer (CCL) is provided as a single layer, the effect of the light control layer (CCL) in adjusting the viewing angle may be reduced. If the light control layer (CCL) is provided as multiple layers, the thickness of the display device (DD) may increase, and problems such as increased manufacturing costs may occur. Preferably, the number of light control layers (CCL) may be provided as 2 or more and 5 or less.

[0108] In this embodiment, four light control layers (CCL1, CCL2, CCL3, CCL4) may be provided. The light control layers (CCL1, CCL2, CCL3, CCL4) may be stacked sequentially along a direction away from the display panel (DP). The light control layers (CCL1, CCL2, CCL3, CCL4) may be arranged sequentially along a third direction (DR3).

[0109] The first light control layer (CCL1) may include a first light-blocking pattern (BM1) and a first insulating layer (IL1), the second light control layer (CCL2) may include a second light-blocking pattern (BM2) and a second insulating layer (IL2), the third light control layer (CCL3) may include a third light-blocking pattern (BM3) and a third insulating layer (IL3), and the fourth light control layer (CCL4) may include a fourth light-blocking pattern (BM4) and a fourth insulating layer (IL4).

[0110] The first light-blocking pattern (BM1) may include extensions (PT1) and connectings (PT2). However, the extensions (PT1) and connectings (PT2) are separated for convenience of explanation, and the first light-blocking pattern (BM1) may be provided as a continuous integral. The extensions (PT1) and connectings (PT2) may be formed simultaneously through a single process and may contain the same material.

[0111] The extensions (PT1) may be extended along a first direction (DR1) and arranged along a second direction (DR2). The extensions (PT1) may be spaced apart from each other in the second direction (DR2) with a predetermined spacing (L-PT1). FIG. 5a illustrates an example in which five extensions (PT1) are arranged.

[0112] At least one connecting part (PT2) may be disposed between two adjacent extension parts (PT1). Accordingly, two adjacent extension parts (PT1) may be connected through the connecting part (PT2). Each connecting part (PT2) may be directly connected to two extension parts (PT1). In this specification, "connecting parts (PT2)" may also be expressed as "bundling pattern (PT2)".

[0113] In this embodiment, the connecting portions (PT2) may extend along the second direction (DR2). The connecting portions (PT2) may be spaced apart from the first direction (DR1) by a predetermined distance (L-PT2).

[0114] The above interval (L-PT2) may be larger than the "minimum light-emitting region width (W-LA)". The "minimum light-emitting region width (W-LA)" may mean the smallest of the widths that the first-1 light-emitting region to the third-2 light-emitting region (LA1-1 to LA3-2) have in the first direction (DR1).

[0115] The angle between the extension direction of the connecting parts (PT2) and the first direction (DR1) can be defined as the “connecting angle (AG).” FIG. 5a illustrates an example where the connecting angle (AG) is 90°, but the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to those illustrated.

[0116] Conventional light-blocking patterns include only connecting parts in the form of "parallel lines" that are extended in one direction and spaced apart from each other in a direction intersecting the one direction, or, as described with reference to FIG. 6a, include a part that extends in one direction and a connecting part in the form of a "mesh" that extends in a direction intersecting the one direction.

[0117] However, in the case of light-blocking patterns arranged in a "parallel line" shape, adjacent connections could not secure each other, leading to the problem of some connections detaching during the manufacturing process. Additionally, while "mesh-type" connections were robust because adjacent connections secured each other, they resulted in increased manufacturing costs and reduced visibility of the display device.

[0118] A display device (DD) according to the present invention includes extensions (PT1) extending in a first direction (DR1) to reduce manufacturing costs, while also including connecting parts (PT2) positioned between adjacent extensions (PT1) to effectively prevent some of the extensions (PT1) from falling off. That is, since each of the extensions (PT1) according to the present invention is connected to an adjacent extension (PT1) through a connecting part (PT2), they can be firmly fixed without falling off during the manufacturing process. In addition, since the connecting part (PT2) is smaller than the extensions (PT1), costs are reduced compared to manufacturing "mesh-shaped" connecting parts, and a decrease in the brightness of the display device can be prevented.

[0119] For convenience of explanation, the input sensing layer (ISL, see FIG. 3) may include conductive patterns, although it is omitted in FIG. 5b and FIG. 5c. The input sensing layer (ISL, see FIG. 3) can detect a change in an electrical signal and detect that a user or object has come into contact with the display device (DD). In this case, the first light-blocking pattern (BM1) may be placed on the input sensing layer (ISL, see FIG. 3).

[0120] In addition, a display device (DD) according to one embodiment "Protective shield" It may further include. The protective inorganic film may be placed below the first light-blocking pattern (BM1). The protective inorganic film may function to protect the lower part of the first light-blocking pattern (BM1) and improve the adhesion to the lower part of the first light-blocking pattern (BM1).

[0121] Referring to FIG. 5a and FIG. 5b together, at least some of the extensions (PT1) in the plane may overlap with the light-emitting region (LA). Some of the extensions (PT1) overlap with the light-emitting region (LA), and the remainder of the extensions (PT1), excluding said portion, may not overlap with the light-emitting region (LA).

[0122] FIG. 5a illustrates, as an example, that five extensions (PT1) overlap all of the first to third light-emitting regions (LA1, LA2, LA3). However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and the extensions (PT1) may overlap some of the first to third light-emitting regions (LA1, LA2, LA3). For example, the extensions (PT1) may be arranged to overlap the first-1 light-emitting region (LA1-1), the second-1 light-emitting region (LA2-1), and the third-1 light-emitting region (LA3-1), and not overlap the first-2 light-emitting region (LA1-2), the second-2 light-emitting region (LA2-2), and the third-2 light-emitting region (LA3-2). In this case, the display device (DD) according to the present invention may further include a light-blocking partition (F-BM, see FIG. 11b) adjacent to the first-2 light-emitting region (LA1-2), the second-2 light-emitting region (LA2-2), and the third-2 light-emitting region (LA3-2). This will be described later.

[0123] The connecting portions (PT2) can be non-overlapping with the light-emitting region (LA). Since the connecting portions (PT2) have a smaller planar area compared to the extension portions (PT1), they can be selectively placed in the non-light-emitting region (NLA). FIG. 5c illustrates, as an example, that the connecting portions (PT2) are non-overlapping with the light-emitting regions (LA1-2, LA2-2, LA3-2) and overlap with the non-light-emitting region (NLA). Accordingly, the problem of reduced brightness can be prevented in the display device (DD) according to the present invention even when including the connecting portions (PT2).

[0124] Connecting parts (PT2) disposed between adjacent extension parts (PT1) may be spaced apart from each other with at least one of the light-emitting regions (LA) in between. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. For example, the extension parts (PT1) may not be disposed between the 1-2 light-emitting region (LA1-2), the 2-2 light-emitting region (LA2-2), and the 3-2 light-emitting region (LA3-2). In this case, the display device (DD) according to the present invention may further include a light-blocking partition (F-BM, see FIG. 11b) that overlaps the 1-2 light-emitting region (LA1-2), the 2-2 light-emitting region (LA2-2), and the 3-2 light-emitting region (LA3-2). This will be described later.

[0125] In this embodiment, a connection part (PT2) adjacent to any one of the connection parts (PT2) and located in the "downward direction" relative to any one of the connection parts (PT2) may be located in the "rightward direction" relative to any one of the connection parts (PT2). However, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to those illustrated. For example, a connection part (PT2) located in the "downward direction" relative to any one of the connection parts (PT2) may be located in the "leftward direction" relative to any one of the connection parts (PT2).

[0127] FIG. 6a is a plan view showing a portion of a display device according to a comparative example. FIG. 6b is a plan view showing a portion of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6c is a schematic diagram showing regions 1 to 3 according to the present invention.

[0128] Referring to FIG. 6a, a display device (DD') according to a comparative embodiment may include first to third light-emitting regions (LA1, LA2, LA3) and a first light-blocking pattern (BM1') of "mesh shape" extending in a direction intersecting the one direction.

[0129] Referring to FIG. 6b, the display device according to Example 1 may include a connection part (PT2, see FIG. 5a) disposed in the A1' area, the display device according to Example 2 may include a connection part (PT2, see FIG. 5a) disposed in the A2' area, and the display device according to Example 3 may include a connection part (PT2, see FIG. 5a) disposed in the A3' area.

[0130] Table 1 is a table showing the "luminance reduction amount" by region of the display device (DD') according to the comparative example and the display devices (DD) according to Examples 1 to 3. Regions 1 to 3 of Table 1 are quantitative measurements of the amount of luminance reduction in a predetermined region when viewing the display device according to the comparative example or the display devices according to Examples 1 to 3.

[0131] Referring to FIG. 6c and Table 1, "Region 1 (ZN1)" may refer to an area with an angle of -10° or more and 10° or less in the horizontal direction and -4° or more and +8° or less in the vertical direction. "Region 2 (ZN2)" may refer to an area with an angle of -40° or more and 40° or less in the horizontal direction and -10° or more and +20° or less in the vertical direction. "Region 3 (ZN3)" may refer to an area with an angle of -50° or more and 50° or less in the horizontal direction and -10° or more and +20° or less in the vertical direction.

[0132] division Comparative Example Example 1 Example 2 Example 3 Up and down 35° upper luminance 1.3% 1.3% 1.3% 1.3% Frontal blocking rate 60% 60% 60% 60% Area 1 40% 40% 40% 40% Area 2 15% 13.5 % 13.4% 15% Area 3 12% 10.6 % 10.5% 12%

[0133] The display device (DD') according to the comparative example and the display devices (DD) according to Examples 1 to 3 may have a luminance of 5% or less relative to the luminance at 0° in the frontal direction at 35° in the vertical direction. Referring to Table 1, it can be seen that the display device (DD') according to the comparative example and the display devices (DD) according to Examples 1 to 3 have the same luminance of 1.3% relative to the luminance at 0° in the frontal direction at 35° in the vertical direction. In Table 1, "frontal blocking rate" may refer to the ratio in which the light-emitting area (LA, see FIG. 5a) is blocked by the light-blocking pattern when the display device is viewed from the front. The "frontal blocking rate" is not affected by the connection part (PT2, see FIG. 5a) but is affected only by the extension part (PT1). Therefore, the comparative example and Examples 1 to 3 of the present invention may have the same value of 60%.

[0134] Referring to Table 1, it can be seen that the luminance reduction rate of Examples 1 to 3 in regions 1 to 3 ranges from a minimum of 0% to a maximum of 1.6%. That is, according to the present invention, whether the region where the connecting part (PT2, see FIG. 5a) is placed is region A1', region A2', or region A3', it can be confirmed that the amount of luminance reduction is the same as or even smaller than that of the comparative example.

[0135] That is, it can be confirmed that the display device (DD, see FIG. 5a) according to the present invention can minimize the reduction in brightness by placing connecting parts (PT2, see FIG. 5a) at a position that does not overlap with the light-emitting area.

[0136] Hereinafter, display devices according to various embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0138] FIG. 7 is a plan view showing a part of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0139] Configurations identical or similar to those described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5 have been given identical or similar reference numerals, and redundant descriptions have been omitted, with the focus on the differences.

[0140] FIG. 7 may be a diagram showing the arrangement relationship between the light-emitting region (LA) and the first light-blocking pattern (BM1-1a).

[0141] In a display device (DD-1a) according to one embodiment, the connecting portions (PT2') may be non-overlapping with the light-emitting region (LA) and at least one may be positioned between two adjacent extension portions (PT1).

[0142] However, the connecting parts (PT2') may be randomly placed at positions that do not overlap with the light-emitting region (LA) in the first direction (DR1). Accordingly, the positions at which the connecting parts (PT2') are placed within the display region (AA) may be distributed rather than concentrated at specific locations in the first direction (DR1).

[0144] FIG. 8 is a plan view showing a part of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0145] Configurations identical or similar to those described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5 have been given identical or similar reference numerals, and redundant descriptions have been omitted, with the focus on the differences.

[0146] In a display device (DD-1b) according to one embodiment, the first light-blocking pattern (BM1-1b) may include extensions (PT1) and second extension connecting parts (PE2-2). In this specification, "extension connecting part" may correspond to a connecting part that allows adjacent extensions (PT1) to be connected in succession. FIG. 8 illustrates, as an example, a second extension connecting part (PE2-2) comprising a first extension connecting part (PT2a), a second extension connecting part (PT2b), and a third extension connecting part (PT2c) arranged side by side in a second direction (DR2) to connect four adjacent extensions (PT1).

[0147] However, the types of extension connecting parts are not limited to this. For example, a configuration including two extension connecting parts arranged side by side in the second direction (DR2) so as to connect three adjacent extension parts (PT1) may be defined as the "first extension connecting part." This will be described later.

[0148] Referring to FIG. 8, the second extension connecting portion (PE2-2) may be spaced apart from the first direction (DR1) by a predetermined spacing (W-PT2). FIG. 8 illustrates, as an example, that the spacing (W-PT2) is substantially 4 unit pitches (W-PU). However, the spacing (W-PT2) is not limited to this. For example, the spacing (W-PT2) may be 1 unit pitch (W-PU) or more and 5 unit pitches (W-PU) or less. Preferably, the spacing (W-PT2) may be 1 unit pitch (W-PU) or more and 4 unit pitches (W-PU) or less.

[0149] In this embodiment, the second extension connection portions (PE2-2) may be positioned at the boundary of the pixel units (PXU, see FIG. 4). That is, the second extension connection portions (PE2-2) may not be positioned between the first-1 to third-2 light-emitting regions (LA1-1 to LA3-2, see FIG. 7) included in the pixel units (PXU, see FIG. 4).

[0150] FIG. 9 is a plan view showing a part of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0151] Configurations identical or similar to those described with reference to Fig. 5a have been given identical or similar reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be omitted and the differences will be explained in detail.

[0152] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the arrangement relationship between the light-emitting region (LA) and the first light-blocking pattern (BM1-2).

[0153] The connecting portions (PT2-L) do not overlap with the light-emitting region (LA) and can be positioned at least one between two adjacent extension portions (PT1).

[0154] In this specification, the direction in which the connecting portions (PT2-L) extend may be defined as the “connecting direction (DRc).” The angle at which the first direction (DR1) and the connecting direction (DRc) intersect may be defined as the “connecting angle (AG).”

[0155] In this embodiment, the connection direction (DRc) may be a direction between the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2). Accordingly, the connection angle (AG) may be an acute angle or an obtuse angle. FIG. 9 illustrates an example where the connection angle (AG) is an acute angle. However, the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to that illustrated, and the connection angle (AG) may be an obtuse angle.

[0157] FIG. 10a is a plan view showing a portion of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10b is a cross-sectional view corresponding to line III-III' of FIG. 10a.

[0158] Configurations identical or similar to those described with reference to FIGS. 5a and 5b have been given identical or similar reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be omitted and the differences will be explained in detail.

[0159] In this embodiment, the extensions (PT1) and the connecting parts (PT2b) may not overlap with the light-emitting region (LA). The extensions (PT1) and the connecting parts (PT2b) may not block light emitted from the light-emitting region (LA). In a planar view, the extensions (PT1) and the connecting parts (PT2b) may be positioned in the non-light-emitting region (NLA).

[0160] The gap (L-PT13) in the second direction (DR2) of the extensions (PT1) included in the display device (DD-3) may be larger than the gap (L-PT1, see FIG. 5a) of the extensions (PT1, see FIG. 5a) included in the display device (DD, see FIG. 5a).

[0161] In the display device (DD-3) according to the present embodiment, light emitted from the light-emitting region (LA) may not be blocked by the connecting parts (PT1) and connecting parts (PT2). Accordingly, the brightness of the light emitted by the display device (DD-3) may be increased.

[0162] Referring to FIG. 10b, the input sensing layer (ISL) may include a first sensing conductive pattern (YMTL1), a first sensing insulating layer (YCNT) covering the first sensing conductive pattern (YMTL1), and a second sensing conductive pattern (YMTL2) disposed on the first sensing insulating layer (YCNT).

[0163] At this time, the shape of the first light-blocking pattern (BM1) can be deformed to correspond to the shape of the sensing conductive pattern covered by the first light-blocking pattern (BM1). FIG. 10b illustrates, as an example, that the shape of the first light-blocking pattern (BM1) is deformed to correspond to the shape of the second sensing conductive pattern (YMTL2).

[0165] FIG. 11a is a plan view showing a portion of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11b is a cross-sectional view corresponding to line IV-IV' of FIG. 11a.

[0166] Configurations identical or similar to those described with reference to FIGS. 5a and 5b have been given identical or similar reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be omitted and the differences will be explained in detail.

[0167] The display device (DD-4a) according to the present embodiment may further include a light-blocking partition (F-BM).

[0168] A light-blocking barrier (F-BM) may be disposed on a sealing layer (TFE). The light-blocking barrier (F-BM) may be disposed adjacent to a first-2 light-emitting region (LA1-2), a second-2 light-emitting region (LA2-2), and a third-2 light-emitting region (LA3-2). The light-blocking barrier (F-BM) according to the present embodiment may be in a shape that surrounds each of the first-2 light-emitting region (LA1-2), the second-2 light-emitting region (LA2-2), and the third-2 light-emitting region (LA3-2) in a planar form.

[0169] Accordingly, the light-blocking barrier (F-BM) can function to narrow the viewing angle of light emitted from the first-2 light-emitting region (LA1-2), the second-2 light-emitting region (LA2-2), and the third-2 light-emitting region (LA3-2).

[0171] The display device (DD-4a) according to the present invention can limit the light viewing angle in the vertical direction of the first-1 light-emitting regions (LA1-1), second-1 light-emitting regions (LA2-1), and third-1 light-emitting regions (LA3-1) through the first extension portions (PT1). That is, the first extension portions (PT1) can function to limit the light viewing angle in the vertical direction of the "first type light-emitting element".

[0172] In addition, the display device (DD-4a) according to the present invention may include a light-blocking barrier (F-BM) to function to limit the light viewing angle in the up, down, left, and right directions. That is, the light-blocking barrier (F-BM) may function to limit the light viewing angle in the up and down directions of the "second type light-emitting element".

[0173] When the display device (DD-4a) according to the present invention is driven in a "first mode," only the "first type light-emitting element" may be driven. Light emitted from the first type light-emitting element may be partially blocked by the first light-blocking pattern (BM1), thereby limiting the vertical viewing angle. Alternatively, the "first type light-emitting element" and the "second type light-emitting element" may be driven. Light emitted from the first type light-emitting element may be partially blocked by the first light-blocking pattern (BM1), thereby limiting the vertical viewing angle, and light emitted from the "second type light-emitting element" may be partially blocked by the first light-blocking barrier (F-BM1), thereby limiting the vertical viewing angle.

[0174] Additionally, when the display device (DD-4a) according to the present invention is driven in a "second mode," only the "second type light-emitting element" may be driven. Accordingly, light emitted from the second type light-emitting element may be partially blocked by the first light-blocking barrier (F-BM1), thereby limiting the light viewing angle in the up, down, left, and right directions.

[0175] Referring to FIG. 11b, the first to fourth light-blocking partitions (F-BM1, F-BM2, F-BM3, F-BM4) may be stacked sequentially along the third direction (DR3). The first to fourth light-blocking partitions (F-BM1, F-BM2, F-BM3, F-BM4) may be superimposed on a plane.

[0176] The first to fourth light-blocking barriers (F-BM1, F-BM2, F-BM3, F-BM4) may each be formed through the same process as the first to fourth light-blocking patterns (BM1, BM2, BM3, BM4, FIG. 10b) and may contain the same material.

[0177] FIG. 12 is a plan view showing a part of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0178] Configurations identical or similar to those described with reference to FIGS. 5a, 5b, and 11a have been given identical or similar reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be omitted and the differences will be explained in detail.

[0179] Referring to FIG. 12, the display device (DD-4b) according to the present embodiment may include a first pattern (PT1), a second pattern (PT2), and a first light-blocking barrier (F-BM1').

[0180] In this embodiment, the first light-blocking barrier (F-BM1') may be in a shape that partially surrounds each of the first-2 light-emitting region (LA1-2), the second-2 light-emitting region (LA2-2), and the third-2 light-emitting region (LA3-2) in a planar form. FIG. 12 illustrates, as an example, that the first light-blocking barrier (F-BM1') does not surround the lower portions of the first-2 light-emitting region (LA1-2), the second-2 light-emitting region (LA2-2), and the third-2 light-emitting region (LA3-2).

[0181] Accordingly, the first light-blocking barrier (F-BM1') may not block light emitted downwards among the light emitted from the first-2 light-emitting region (LA1-2), the second-2 light-emitting region (LA2-2), and the third-2 light-emitting region (LA3-2).

[0183] FIG. 13 is a plan view showing a part of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0184] Configurations identical or similar to those described with reference to FIGS. 5a, 5b, and 11a have been given identical or similar reference numerals, and redundant descriptions have been omitted, with the focus on the differences.

[0185] Referring to FIG. 13, the display device (DD-4c) according to the present embodiment may include a first pattern (PT1), a second pattern (PT2), and a first light-blocking partition (F-BM1'').

[0186] The first light-blocking barrier (F-BM1'') according to the present embodiment may be disposed in a planar position between each of the first-2 light-emitting region (LA1-2), the second-2 light-emitting region (LA2-2), and the third-2 light-emitting region (LA3-2).

[0187] Accordingly, the first light-blocking barrier (F-BM1'') may not block light emitted in the upward and downward directions among the light emitted in the first-2 light-emitting region (LA1-2), the second-2 light-emitting region (LA2-2), and the third-2 light-emitting region (LA3-2).

[0189] FIG. 14 is a plan view showing a part of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is an enlarged plan view of a part of FIG. 14.

[0190] In this embodiment, the light-emitting region (LA') may include a first light-emitting region (LA1'), a second light-emitting region (LA2'), and a third light-emitting region (LA3'). In this embodiment, red light may be provided through the first light-emitting region (LA1'), green light may be provided through the second light-emitting region (LA2'), and blue light may be provided through the third light-emitting region (LA3'). However, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0191] The first light-emitting region (LA1') may be positioned at the lower left side relative to the third light-emitting region (LA3'), and the second light-emitting region (LA2') may be positioned at the lower right side relative to the third light-emitting region (LA3').

[0192] The planar area of ​​the third light-emitting region (LA3') may be larger than that of the first light-emitting region (LA1') and the second light-emitting region (LA2').

[0193] The first light-blocking pattern (BM1-3) according to the present embodiment may include an extension part (PT1), a connecting part (PT2), and a first extended connecting part (PE2-1). However, this is separated for convenience of explanation, and the extension part (PT1), the connecting part (PT2), and the first extended connecting part (PE2-1) may be provided as a single unit.

[0194] The first extension connecting portion (PE2-1) may be positioned between adjacent third light-emitting regions (LA3'). The first extension connecting portion (PE2-1) may overlap with at least some of the extension portions (PT1) that overlap with the third light-emitting regions (LA3'). The extension connecting portion (PE2-1) may function to connect three or more and five or fewer adjacent extension portions (PT1).

[0195] The first extension connection (PE2-1) may include a plurality of extension connections (PT2a, PT2b) arranged adjacently and parallel to each other along the first direction (DR1). The number of extension connections (PT2a, PT2b) may be one less than the number of extensions (PT1) to be connected by the extension connection (PE2-1).

[0196] FIG. 15 illustrates, as an example, an extension connection (PE2-1) that connects three extensions (PT1) and includes two extension connections (PT2a, PT2b). The first extension connection (PE2-1) may overlap with the third light-emitting region (LA3) and be connected to three adjacent extensions (PT1).

[0197] The first extension connecting part (PE2-1) may include a first extension connecting part (PT2a) and a second extension connecting part (PT2b). The first extension connecting part (PT2a) and the second extension connecting part (PT2b) may be arranged in a direction parallel to each other between three adjacent extension parts (PT1).

[0198] The first extension connection (PE2-1) can be positioned between the light-emitting regions (LA3') with the largest planar area and function to firmly connect the extensions (PT1) that overlap with it. Accordingly, the reliability of the first light-blocking pattern (BM1-3) can be improved.

[0200] FIGS. 16 and 17 are plan views of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0201] Referring to FIG. 16, a display device (DD-6) according to the present embodiment may include a display area (DA) and a non-display area (NDA) adjacent to the display area (DA). The non-display area (NDA) may include a dummy area (DMA) that overlaps the non-display area (NDA) and is adjacent to the display area (DA).

[0202] FIG. 17 illustrates extensions (PT1) and first outer connecting parts (PT2-1s) included in the first light-blocking pattern (BM1-4). However, the extensions (PT1) and the first outer connecting parts (PT2-1s) are distinguished for convenience of explanation, and the extensions (PT1) and the first outer connecting parts (PT2-1s) may be formed through a single process and may include the same material.

[0203] The first outer connections (PT2-1s) may not be placed in the display area (DA). The first outer connections (PT2-1s) may be placed in the dummy area (DMA). The first outer connections (PT2-1s) may be placed between the extensions (PT1).

[0204] Unlike the embodiment described with reference to FIG. 5a, the display device (DD-6) according to the present embodiment may have the connecting parts concentrated in a non-display area (NDA, see FIG. 16). That is, the display device (DD-6) according to the present embodiment can fundamentally prevent the phenomenon of brightness reduction caused by the first outer connecting parts (PT2-1S) by arranging the first outer connecting parts (PT2-1S) so as not to overlap with the display area (DA, see FIG. 16). In addition, the first outer connecting parts (PT2-1S) are connected to all extension parts (PT1), so the phenomenon of the extension parts (PT1) falling off can be effectively reduced.

[0206] FIG. 18 is a plan view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0207] Referring to FIG. 18, a display device (DD-7) according to the present embodiment may include a display area (DA) and a non-display area (NDA) adjacent to the display area (DA). The non-display area (NDA) may include a dummy area (DMA) that overlaps with the non-display area (NDA) and is adjacent to the display area (DA).

[0209] In the display device (DD-7) according to the present embodiment, the first light-blocking pattern (BM1-5) may include extension parts (PT1) and first outer connecting parts (PT2-1s'). However, this is for convenience of explanation, and the extension parts (PT1) and the first outer connecting parts (PT2-1s') may be provided as a continuous integral.

[0210] Configurations identical or similar to those described with reference to Figures 16 and 17 have been given identical or similar reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be omitted and the differences will be explained in detail.

[0211] In this embodiment, each of the first outer connections (PT2-1s') may be connected to the ends (P1E) of the extensions (PT1). Each of the first outer connections (PT2-1s') may be provided as a continuous integral within the dummy region (DMA).

[0212] In this embodiment, the width (PS1W) of the first outer connecting portions (PT2-1s') in the first direction (DR1) may be greater than the width (P1W) of the extension portions (PT1) in the second direction (DR2). For example, the first outer connecting portions (PT2-1s') in a plane may have a width (PS1W) of 1400 µm or more and 1600 µm or less.

[0214] FIG. 19 is a plan view of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0215] Configurations identical or similar to those described with reference to FIGS. 16 to 18 have been given identical or similar reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be omitted and the differences will be explained in detail.

[0216] In this embodiment, the first light-blocking pattern (BM1-6) may include extensions (PT1), first outer connecting parts (PT2-1s'), and second outer connecting parts (PT2-2s). However, this is for convenience of explanation, and the extensions (PT1), first outer connecting parts (PT2-1s'), and second outer connecting parts (PT2-2s) may be provided as a single unit.

[0217] The second outer connections (PT2-2s) may extend along the first direction (DR1). The second outer connections (PT2-2s) may be placed in a dummy area (DMA). The second outer connections (PT2-2s) may be connected to the ends (P2E) of the first outer connections (PT2-1s').

[0218] One of the second outer connections (PT2-2s) may face the uppermost extension (PT1) among the extensions (PT1). The other of the second outer connections (PT2-2s) may face the lowermost extension (PT1) among the extensions (PT1).

[0219] In this embodiment, the width (PC2W) of the second outer connecting portions (PT2-2s) may be greater than the width (P1W) of the extension portions (PT1). For example, in a planar view, the second outer connecting portions (PT2-2s) may have a width (PC2W) of 2100 µm or more and 2300 µm or less.

[0220] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art or those with ordinary knowledge in the relevant technical field will understand that various modifications and changes can be made to the invention without departing from the spirit and technical scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below. Accordingly, the technical scope of the present invention should not be limited to the contents described in the detailed description of the specification, but should be determined by the claims. Explanation of the symbols

[0222] electronic devices ED Pixel definition membrane PDL light-emitting region LA Non-luminous region NLA Extension PT1 connection part PT2 First shading pattern BM1 light control layer CCL pixel aperture OH Connection angle AG Display area DA light-emitting layer EML light-emitting element OLED processor PR Power module PM Display module DM Display panel DP memory MR end P1E 1st outer connection PT2-1s 2nd outer connection PT2-2s Extension connection PE2-1

Claims

Claim 1 A display device comprising: a base layer including light-emitting regions and non-light-emitting regions; a pixel defining film disposed on the base layer and having pixel openings defined overlapping the light-emitting regions; and light-emitting elements disposed in the pixel openings; and a light control layer disposed on the display panel and having a light-blocking pattern, wherein the light-blocking pattern comprises extensions arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction and overlapping the light-emitting regions and non-light-emitting regions, and at least one connecting portion disposed between the extensions that overlap the non-light-emitting regions and adjacent extensions. Claim 2 In claim 1, the connecting parts are a display device extending in a direction perpendicular to the first direction. Claim 3 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the connecting parts extend in an extension direction intersecting the first direction, and a straight line parallel to the first direction and a straight line parallel to the extension direction of the connecting parts form an acute angle with each other. Claim 4 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the light control layers are provided in plurality, the light control layers are sequentially arranged in a direction away from the display panel, the number of the light control layers is 2 or more and 5 or less, and the light-blocking patterns included in the light control layers overlap each other on a plane. Claim 5 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the luminance at 35° relative to the second direction is 5% or less of the luminance in the front direction of the display panel. Claim 6 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the extensions and the connectings are formed through the same process and include the same material. Claim 7 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the extension portions are spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in the second direction and the connecting portions are spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in the first direction. Claim 8 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the light-emitting element comprises first type light-emitting elements and second type light-emitting elements, and the light-emitting region comprises a first-1 light-emitting region, a second-1 light-emitting region, a third-1 light-emitting region in which light is emitted by the first type light-emitting elements, and a first-2 light-emitting region, a second-2 light-emitting region, and a third-2 light-emitting region in which light is emitted by the second type light-emitting elements, wherein the first-1 light-emitting region has a larger planar area than the first-2 light-emitting region, the second-1 light-emitting region has a larger planar area than the second-2 light-emitting region, and the third-1 light-emitting region has a larger planar area than the third-2 light-emitting region. Claim 9 A display device capable of switching to a first mode in which only the first type light-emitting elements operate, or a second mode in which the first type light-emitting elements do not operate and only the second type light-emitting elements operate. Claim 10 A display device according to claim 8, further comprising a light-blocking barrier disposed on the pixel defining film and surrounding at least a portion of each of the first-2 light-emitting region, the second-2 light-emitting region, and the third-2 light-emitting region on a plane, wherein the light-blocking barrier is formed through the same process as the light-blocking pattern and comprises the same material. Claim 11 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the light-emitting region includes a first light-emitting region emitting red light, a second light-emitting region emitting green light, and a third light-emitting region emitting blue light, and the light-blocking pattern further includes a first extension connecting part and a second extension connecting part arranged side by side in the second direction so that three adjacent extension parts are connected in succession. Claim 12 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the light-blocking pattern further comprises a second extension connecting part including a first extension connecting part, a second extension connecting part, and a third extension connecting part arranged side by side in the second direction so as to connect four adjacent extension parts in succession. Claim 13 In claim 12, the display panel comprises the light-emitting elements and unit pixels arranged along the first direction, the width of the unit pixels in the first direction is defined as a unit pitch, the second extension connecting portion is provided in plurality, and the second extension connecting portions are spaced apart from each other in the first direction by a distance of at least 1 unit pitch and at least 4 unit pitches. Claim 14 A display panel comprising a display area and a non-display area adjacent to the display area; a first light control layer disposed on the display panel and comprising a light-blocking pattern and an insulating layer covering the light-blocking pattern, wherein the light-blocking pattern comprises extensions disposed in the display area and arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction and extending along a first direction, and first outer connections disposed in the non-display area and connected to the ends of the extensions, and wherein the width of each of the first outer connections is greater than the width of each of the extensions. Claim 15 In claim 14, the first outer connecting portions are formed through the same process as the extension portions and are a display device comprising the same material. Claim 16 In claim 14, the display device further comprises second outer connections that extend along the first direction, are disposed in the non-display area, and are connected to the ends of the first outer connections. Claim 17 A display device according to claim 16, wherein the first outer connecting portions have a width of 1400 µm or more and 1600 µm or less in the first direction, and the second outer connecting portions have a width of 2100 µm or more and 2300 µm or less in the second direction. Claim 18 An electronic device comprising: a base layer including light-emitting regions and non-light-emitting regions; a pixel defining film disposed on the base layer and having pixel openings defined overlapping the light-emitting regions; a light-emitting element disposed in the pixel opening; a light control layer disposed on the display panel and having a light-blocking pattern, wherein the light-blocking pattern comprises extensions arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction and overlapping the light-emitting regions and non-light-emitting regions, and connections disposed between adjacent extensions along the second direction and overlapping the non-light-emitting regions; an electronic module providing an electrical signal to the display device; and a window module disposed on the display device. Claim 19 An electronic device according to claim 18, wherein the light control layers are provided in plurality, the light control layers are sequentially arranged in a direction away from the display panel, and the number of the light control layers is 2 or more and 5 or less. Claim 20 In paragraph 18, an electronic device applied inside a transport device such as a vehicle, further comprising a power supply module such as a power adapter or battery device.

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