Display device and method for manufacturing the same

Abstract

A display device comprises a pixel array disposed in a display area comprising a plurality of light-emitting regions emitting light of different colors, an encapsulation layer covering the pixel array, a first color conversion pattern disposed on the encapsulation layer and overlapping with a first light-emitting region and comprising wavelength conversion particles, a compensation pattern disposed on the encapsulation layer and overlapping with a second light-emitting region, a low-refractive index layer disposed on the first color conversion pattern and the compensation pattern and comprising a resin portion and hollow particles, and a first dam structure disposed in a peripheral area adjacent to the display area, having a shape that surrounds the display area and comprising the same material as the compensation pattern.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a display device, and more specifically, to a display device including a color conversion pattern and a method for manufacturing the same. Background Technology

[0002] Organic light-emitting display devices are self-emissive display devices capable of generating color images without a separate light source, such as a backlight.

[0003] Recently, organic light-emitting display devices including a color conversion pattern are being researched to improve display quality. The color conversion pattern can convert the wavelength of light provided by a light-emitting element. Thus, it can emit light having a color different from the incident light. For example, the color conversion pattern may include a wavelength conversion material such as quantum dots.

[0004] In order to form an organic light-emitting display device including the above color conversion pattern, an array substrate including an array of light-emitting elements and a counter substrate including a color conversion pattern can be combined. Recently, methods for forming a color conversion pattern on an array substrate are being studied to reduce thickness and cost. The problem to be solved

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide a display device comprising a color conversion pattern formed on an array substrate.

[0006] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing the above-mentioned display device.

[0007] However, the present invention is not limited to the purposes described above and may be extended in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. means of solving the problem

[0008] To achieve the aforementioned objectives of the present invention, a display device according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention comprises: a pixel array disposed in a display area comprising a plurality of light-emitting regions emitting light of different colors; an encapsulation layer covering the pixel array; a first color conversion pattern disposed on the encapsulation layer and overlapping with a first light-emitting region and comprising wavelength conversion particles; a compensation pattern disposed on the encapsulation layer and overlapping with a second light-emitting region; a low-refractive index layer disposed on the first color conversion pattern and the compensation pattern and comprising a resin portion and hollow particles; and a first dam structure disposed in a peripheral area adjacent to the display area, having a shape that surrounds the display area and comprising the same material as the compensation pattern.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the display device further includes a connection pad disposed in the peripheral area and a transmission wiring that electrically connects the connection pad and the pixel array, and a part of the first dam structure is disposed between the connection pad and the display area.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the compensation pattern and the first dam structure include a resin portion and scatterers dispersed in the resin portion.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the display device further includes a second color conversion pattern disposed between the low-refractive index layer and the encapsulation layer, overlapping with a third light-emitting region, and comprising wavelength conversion particles.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the display device further includes a first color filter pattern disposed on the low-refractive layer and overlapping with the first light-emitting region, and a second color filter pattern disposed on the low-refractive layer and overlapping with the third light-emitting region.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the display device further includes a light-blocking member disposed on the low-refractive layer and having a shape that surrounds the first light-emitting region, the second light-emitting region, and the third light-emitting region.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the first light-emitting region emits red light, the second light-emitting region emits blue light, and the third light-emitting region emits green light.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the display device further includes a second dam structure positioned between the first dam structure and the display area, having a shape that surrounds the display area, and adjacent to the end of the sealing layer.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the display device further includes a third dam structure that is positioned on the first dam structure, has a shape surrounding the display area, and includes a light-blocking material.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the wavelength conversion particle includes a quantum dot.

[0018] A display device according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention comprises a pixel array disposed in a display area, an encapsulation layer covering the pixel array, a partition wall disposed on the encapsulation layer and having a plurality of openings, a color conversion pattern disposed within a first opening of the partition wall and comprising wavelength conversion particles, a low-refractive index layer disposed on the color conversion pattern and the partition wall and comprising a resin portion and hollow particles, and a first dam structure disposed in a peripheral area adjacent to the display area, having a shape that surrounds the display area, and comprising the same material as the partition wall.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the bulkhead and the first dam structure include a light-blocking material.

[0020] According to one embodiment, it further includes a color filter pattern disposed on the low-refractive layer and overlapping with the color conversion pattern.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the display device further includes a compensation pattern disposed within a second opening of the partition wall and not including wavelength-converting particles.

[0022] A method for manufacturing a display device according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention comprises the steps of: forming a color conversion pattern overlapping a first light-emitting region on an encapsulation layer covering a pixel array; forming a compensation pattern overlapping a second light-emitting region on the encapsulation layer and a first dam structure disposed in a peripheral region surrounding the pixel array; forming a color conversion pattern on the encapsulation layer; and forming a low-refractive index layer comprising a resin portion and hollow particles on the color conversion pattern and the compensation pattern. Effects of the invention

[0023] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, luminous efficiency can be improved by providing a low-refractive index layer on a color conversion pattern. Accordingly, the reduction in luminous efficiency caused by low-temperature curing can be minimized or prevented.

[0024] In addition, by providing a dam structure in the surrounding area, it is possible to prevent the liquid composition from flowing into the pad portion during the process of forming the low-refractive index layer. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0025] FIG. 1 is a plan view illustrating a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an enlarged pixel area of ​​a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a pixel area of ​​a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the peripheral area of ​​a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 5 to 8 are cross-sectional views illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 9 to 14 are cross-sectional views illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a pixel area of ​​a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the peripheral area of ​​a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0026] Hereinafter, a display device and a method for manufacturing a display device according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In the attached drawings, the same or similar reference numerals are used for identical or similar components.

[0027] FIG. 1 is a plan view illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an enlarged plan view illustrating a pixel area of ​​a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a pixel area of ​​a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a peripheral area of ​​a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a display device (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a display area (DA) that generates an image and a surrounding area (PA) that surrounds the display area. In the display area (DA), each pixel area (PX) may include a light-emitting area that emits light and a light-blocking area (BA) that surrounds the light-emitting area. Light generated by the display device may be emitted to the outside through the light-emitting area.

[0029] The above display device (10) includes a pixel array disposed in the display area (DA). Each pixel of the pixel array may include a light-emitting element that generates light according to a driving signal.

[0030] The display device (10) further includes a color conversion pattern that converts the wavelength of light generated from the light-emitting element. Additionally, the display device (10) may further include a color filter that transmits light of a specific color.

[0031] The above-mentioned light-emitting regions may emit light of different colors. For example, the display device may include a first light-emitting region (LA1) that emits first color light, a second light-emitting region (LA2) that emits second color light, and a third light-emitting region (LA3) that emits third color light.

[0032] According to one embodiment, light-emitting regions emitting light of the same color may be arranged along a first direction (D1), and light-emitting regions emitting light of different colors may be arranged along a second direction (D2) that intersects the first direction (D1). For example, the first direction (D1) may be a column direction, and the second direction (D2) may be a row direction.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the first light-emitting region (LA1) may emit red light, the second light-emitting region (LA2) may emit blue light, and the third light-emitting region (LA3) may emit green light. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. For example, the light-emitting regions may be combined to emit yellow, cyan, and magenta light.

[0034] In addition, the light-emitting regions may emit four or more colors of light. For example, the light-emitting regions may be combined to emit at least one of yellow, cyan, and crimson light in addition to red, green, and blue light. In addition, the light-emitting regions may be combined to emit white light.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the light-emitting regions may each have a substantially rectangular shape. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. For example, the light-emitting regions may have different shapes. Additionally, the light-emitting regions may have various shapes such as squares, rhombuses, triangles, circles, etc., and the edges or corners of each pixel may have a rounded shape or a chamfered shape.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the light-emitting regions may have different sizes. For example, the first light-emitting region (LA1) emitting red light may have a larger area than the second light-emitting region (LA2) emitting blue light and the third light-emitting region (LA3) emitting green light. Additionally, the third light-emitting region (LA3) may have a larger area than the second light-emitting region (LA2).

[0037] However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and the light-emitting regions may have the same size as each other.

[0038] A pad portion (PD) and a transmission line (TL) may be formed in the above peripheral area (PA). The pad portion (PD) may include connection pads. For example, a plurality of pad portions (PD) may be arranged along the second direction (D2) in the above peripheral area (PA). The pad portion (PD) may be electrically connected to an external driving device, such as a printed circuit board or a driving chip, to provide a driving signal, power, etc., to the transmission line (TL) through the connection pads. According to one embodiment, the display device may be bent so that the area where the pad portion (PD) is placed is positioned below the display area (DA).

[0039] According to one embodiment, the transmission wiring (TL) may be a fan-out wiring that transmits a data signal to a data line (DL) placed in the display area (DA). However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and the transmission wiring (TL) may include various wirings, such as a control signal wiring that transmits a control signal to a gate driver, and a power transmission wiring that transmits a power voltage to a light-emitting element in the display area.

[0040] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line I-I' of FIG. 2, and FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of area A of FIG. 2.

[0041] Referring to FIG. 3, in the display area (DA), the display device includes a driving element (TR) disposed on a base substrate (110). The driving element may be electrically connected to a corresponding light-emitting element. The light-emitting element may be an organic light-emitting diode. For example, the organic light-emitting diode may include a first electrode (EL1), a second electrode (EL2), and an organic light-emitting layer (OL) disposed between the first electrode (EL1) and the second electrode (EL2).

[0042] For example, the base substrate (110) may include glass, quartz, sapphire, polymer material, etc.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the driving element (TR) includes a thin-film transistor. The driving element (TR) may include a plurality of thin-film transistors.

[0044] For example, the channel layer of the thin-film transistor may include amorphous silicon, polycrystalline silicon, or a metal oxide semiconductor. The metal oxide semiconductor may include binary compounds (ABx), ternary compounds (ABxCy), quaternary compounds (ABxCyDz), etc. containing indium (In), zinc (Zn), gallium (Ga), tin (Sn), titanium (Ti), aluminum (Al), hafnium (Hf), zirconium (Zr), magnesium (Mg), etc. For example, the metal oxide semiconductor may include zinc oxide (ZnOx), gallium oxide (GaOx), titanium oxide (TiOx), tin oxide (SnOx), indium oxide (InOx), indium-gallium oxide (IGO), indium-zinc oxide (IZO), indium-tin oxide (ITO), gallium-zinc oxide (GZO), zinc-magnesium oxide (ZMO), zinc-tin oxide (ZTO), zinc-zirconium oxide (ZnZrxOy), indium-gallium-zinc oxide (IGZO), indium-zinc-tin oxide (IZTO), indium-gallium-hafnium oxide (IGHO), tin-aluminum-zinc oxide (TAZO), and indium-gallium-tin oxide (IGTO), etc.

[0045] The above driving element (TR) can be covered by an insulating structure (120). The insulating structure may include a combination of an inorganic insulating layer and an organic insulating layer.

[0046] The first electrode (EL1) can operate as an anode. For example, the first electrode (EL1) may be formed as a transmissive electrode or a reflective electrode depending on the light emission type. When the first electrode (EL1) is formed as a reflective electrode, it may include gold (Au), silver (Ag), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), platinum (Pt), magnesium (Mg), chromium (Cr), tungsten (W), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), etc., and may further include a metal oxide layer such as indium tin oxide, indium zinc oxide, etc.

[0047] The pixel defining layer (PDL) is disposed on the insulating structure (120) and has an opening that exposes at least a portion of the first electrode (EL1). For example, the pixel defining layer (PDL) may comprise an organic insulating material. At least a portion of the light-emitting layer (OL) may be disposed within the opening of the pixel defining layer (PDL). In one embodiment, the light-emitting layer (OL) may extend continuously over a display area across a plurality of pixels. In another embodiment, the light-emitting layer (OL) may be separated from the light-emitting layer of an adjacent pixel.

[0048] The light-emitting layer (OL) may include at least one of the functional layers, such as a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, an organic light-emitting layer, an electron transport layer, and an electron injection layer, in a single-layer or multi-layer structure. The light-emitting layer (OL) may include a low-molecular-weight organic compound or a high-molecular-weight organic compound.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the light-emitting layer (OL) may generate blue light. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the light-emitting layer (OL) may generate red light or green light, or may generate light having different colors depending on the pixel.

[0050] The second electrode (EL2) may be formed as a transmissive electrode or a reflective electrode depending on the light emission type of the display device including the thin-film transistor substrate. For example, the second electrode (EL2) may include a metal, an alloy, a metal nitride, a metal fluoride, a conductive metal oxide, or a combination thereof. For example, the second electrode (EL2) may be continuously extended over a display area across a plurality of pixels.

[0051] The display device may further include an encapsulation layer (130) covering the light-emitting element array. The encapsulation layer (130) may be continuously extended to cover the entire display area (DA).

[0052] For example, the encapsulation layer (130) may include a stacked structure of an organic thin film and an inorganic thin film. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, it may include a first inorganic thin film (132), an organic thin film (134) disposed on the first inorganic thin film (132), and a second inorganic thin film (136) disposed on the organic thin film. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and the encapsulation layer (130) may have a structure comprising two or more organic thin films and three or more inorganic thin films.

[0053] For example, the organic thin film (134) may include a polymer cured material such as polyacrylate. For example, the polymer cured material may be formed by a cross-linking reaction of monomers. For example, the inorganic thin film (132, 136) may include silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon carbide, aluminum oxide, tantalum oxide, hafnium oxide, zirconium oxide, titanium oxide, etc.

[0054] The display device includes a color conversion pattern that converts the wavelength of light (L1) generated from the light-emitting element and emits light of a different color from the incident light (L1). Additionally, the display device includes a color filter pattern that overlaps with the color conversion pattern.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the color conversion pattern may be placed on the encapsulation layer (130), and the color filter pattern may be placed thereon. The color filter pattern may transmit light of a specific color by filtering light passing through the color filter pattern.

[0056] The above color conversion pattern overlaps with a corresponding light-emitting region. For example, the display device may include a first color conversion pattern (232) that overlaps with the first light-emitting region (LA1).

[0057] The first color conversion pattern (232) may include a resin portion (232a) and a wavelength conversion particle (232c).

[0058] For example, the wavelength conversion particle (232c) may include quantum dots. The quantum dots may be defined as semiconductor materials having nanocrystals. The quantum dots have a specific bandgap depending on their composition and size. Thus, they can absorb incident light and emit light having a wavelength different from the incident light. For example, the quantum dots may have a diameter of 100 nm or less, and preferably a diameter of 1 nm to 20 nm.

[0059] For example, the quantum dots may include group II-VI compounds, group III-V compounds, group IV-VI compounds, group IV elements, group IV compounds, and combinations thereof.

[0060] For example, group II-VI compounds are diatomic compounds selected from the group consisting of CdSe, CdTe, ZnS, ZnSe, ZnTe, ZnO, HgS, HgSe, HgTe, MgSe, MgS, and mixtures thereof; ternary compounds selected from the group consisting of CdSeS, CdSeTe, CdSTe, ZnSeS, ZnSeTe, ZnSTe, HgSeS, HgSeTe, HgSTe, CdZnS, CdZnSe, CdZnTe, CdHgS, CdHgSe, CdHgTe, HgZnS, HgZnSe, HgZnTe, MgZnSe, MgZnS, and mixtures thereof; and may be selected from the group consisting of four-element compounds selected from the group consisting of HgZnTeS, CdZnSeS, CdZnSeTe, CdZnSTe, CdHgSeS, CdHgSeTe, CdHgSTe, HgZnSeS, HgZnSeTe, HgZnSTe and mixtures thereof.

[0061] For example, III-V group compounds may be selected from the group consisting of diatomic compounds selected from GaN, GaP, GaAs, GaSb, AlN, AlP, AlAs, AlSb, InN, InP, InAs, InSb, and mixtures thereof; ternary compounds selected from the group consisting of GaNP, GaNAs, GaNSb, GaPAs, GaPSb, AlNP, AlNAs, AlNSb, AlPAs, AlPSb, InNP, InNAs, InNSb, InPAs, InPSb, GaAlNP, and mixtures thereof; and quaternary compounds selected from the group consisting of GaAlNAs, GaAlNSb, GaAlPAs, GaAlPSb, GaInNP, GaInNAs, GaInNSb, GaInPAs, GaInPSb, InAlNP, InAlNAs, InAlNSb, InAlPAs, InAlPSb, and mixtures thereof.

[0062] For example, group IV-VI compounds may be selected from the group consisting of SnS, SnSe, SnTe, PbS, PbSe, PbTe and mixtures thereof; ternary compounds selected from the group consisting of SnSeS, SnSeTe, SnSTe, PbSeS, PbSeTe, PbSTe, SnPbS, SnPbSe, SnPbTe and mixtures thereof; and quaternary compounds selected from the group consisting of SnPbSSe, SnPbSeTe, SnPbSTe and mixtures thereof.

[0063] For example, the Group IV element may be selected from the group consisting of Si, Ge, and mixtures thereof. The Group IV compound may be a binary compound selected from the group consisting of SiC, SiGe, and mixtures thereof.

[0064] For example, the quantum dot may have a core / shell structure comprising a core and a shell surrounding the core. For example, the core and the shell may comprise different materials.

[0065] The wavelength conversion particles (232c) may be dispersed within the resin portion (232a). For example, the resin portion (232a) may include epoxy resin, acrylic resin, phenolic resin, melamine resin, cardo resin, imide resin, etc.

[0066] The first color conversion pattern (232) may further include a scatterer (232b). The scatterer (232b) may scatter the incident light without substantially changing the wavelength of the light incident on the first color conversion pattern (232).

[0067] The scattering body (232b) may include a metal oxide or an organic material. For example, the metal oxide may include titanium oxide (TiO2), zirconium oxide (ZrO2), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), indium oxide (In2O3), zinc oxide (ZnO), tin oxide (SnO2), etc., and the organic material may include an acrylic resin or a urethane resin, etc.

[0068] The display device may further include a second color conversion pattern (234) that overlaps with the third light-emitting region (LA3). The second color conversion pattern (234) may include a resin portion (234a), a wavelength conversion particle (234c), and a scatterer (234b).

[0069] The display device may further include a compensation pattern (236) that overlaps with the second light-emitting region (LA2). The compensation pattern (236) may include a resin portion (236a). For example, the resin portion (236a) may include the same resin as the resin portions (232a, 234a) of the color conversion patterns (232, 234). Additionally, the compensation pattern (236) may further include a scatterer (236b).

[0070] The display device may include a low-refractive index layer (140) covering the wavelength conversion pattern and the compensation pattern. The low-refractive index layer (140) has a refractive index smaller than that of the wavelength conversion pattern and the compensation pattern. The low-refractive index layer (140) can improve light extraction efficiency, thereby increasing the brightness and lifespan of the display device. For example, the low-refractive index layer (140) may have a refractive index of 1.3 or less.

[0071] The low refractive index layer (140) may include hollow particles to have a desirable refractive index. According to one embodiment, the low refractive index layer (140) includes hollow particles (140a) dispersed in a resin portion (140b).

[0072] The hollow particles (140a) may contain inorganic materials. For example, the hollow particles (140a) may contain silica (SiO2), magnesium fluoride (MgF2), iron oxide (Fe3O4), or a combination thereof. According to one embodiment, the hollow particles (140a) may contain silica.

[0073] The hollow particle (140a) may include a shell containing an inorganic material and a hollow defined inside the shell. For example, the diameter of the hollow particle (140a) may be 10 nm to 100 nm, and the thickness of the shell may be 5 nm to 20 nm. Preferably, the diameter of the hollow particle (140a) may be 60 nm to 100 nm.

[0074] For example, the content of the hollow particles (140a) may be 10% to 90% by weight of the total weight of the hollow particles (140a) and the resin part (140b), and preferably 40% to 60% by weight. If the content of the hollow particles (140a) is too low, it may be difficult to obtain the desired refractive index, and if the content of the hollow particles (140a) is too high, the surface roughness of the low refractive index layer (140) may increase and the adhesive strength may decrease.

[0075] For example, the resin portion (140b) of the low-refractive index layer (140) may include acrylic resin, siloxane resin, urethane resin, imide resin, etc., and may be selected considering the refractive index and processability.

[0076] For example, the thickness of the low refractive index layer (140) may be 1 μm to 5 μm. Although not illustrated, a protective layer containing an inorganic material such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, etc. may be disposed between the low refractive index layer (140) and the wavelength conversion pattern.

[0077] A color filter layer may be disposed on the low-refractive index layer (140). According to one embodiment, the color filter layer may include a first color filter pattern (242) and a second color filter pattern (244). The color filter patterns overlap with corresponding light-emitting regions.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the first color filter pattern (242) overlaps with the first light-emitting region (LA1). For example, the first color filter pattern (242) can transmit red light. The second color filter pattern (244) overlaps with the second light-emitting region (LA2). For example, the second color filter pattern (244) can transmit blue light.

[0079] For example, the light-emitting element corresponding to the first light-emitting region (LA1) can emit blue light (L1) having a peak wavelength in the range of about 440 nm to about 480 nm. The first color conversion pattern (232) can excite the incident blue light to emit red light. Blue light not excited by the first color conversion pattern (232) is blocked by the first color filter pattern (242). Thus, the first light-emitting region (LA1) can emit red light (L2R). For example, the red light (L2R) can have a peak wavelength in the range of about 610 nm to 650 nm.

[0080] For example, the light-emitting element corresponding to the third light-emitting region (LA3) can emit blue light (L1). The second color conversion pattern (234) can excite the incident blue light to emit green light. Blue light that is not excited by the second color conversion pattern (234) is blocked by the second color filter pattern (226). Thus, the third light-emitting region (LA3) can emit green light (L2G). For example, the green light (L2G) can have a peak wavelength in the range of about 510 nm to 550 nm.

[0081] The above compensation pattern (236) does not include wavelength conversion particles. Therefore, when a light-emitting element corresponding to the second light-emitting region (LA2) emits blue light (L1), the blue light can be emitted by passing through the compensation pattern (236) without wavelength conversion. Thus, the second light-emitting region (LA2) can emit blue light (L2B).

[0082] The above display device may further include a light-blocking member (150). The light-blocking member (150) may have a grid shape or a matrix shape in a plan view. According to one embodiment, the light-blocking member (150) may have a shape that surrounds the first light-emitting area (LA1), the second light-emitting area (LA2), and the third light-emitting area (LA3), and the light-blocking area (BA) may be defined by the light-blocking member (150). For example, the light-blocking member (150) may include openings corresponding to the first light-emitting area (LA1), the second light-emitting area (LA2), and the third light-emitting area (LA3).

[0083] The light-blocking member (150) may include a light-blocking material such as a pigment, dye, carbon black, etc., and a polymer resin that disperses the light-blocking material.

[0084] The light-blocking member (150) may be placed on the low-refractive index layer (140). For example, the light-blocking member (150) may partially cover the color filter patterns. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and a light-blocking member having openings may be formed first, and the color filter patterns may be formed within the openings.

[0085] The display device may further include a capping layer (160) covering the light-blocking member (150) and the color filter patterns. For example, the capping layer (160) may include an inorganic material, an organic material, or a combination thereof. According to one embodiment, the capping layer (160) may include an inorganic material such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, etc.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 4, in the peripheral area (PA) of the display device, a transmission wire (TL) is placed on a base substrate (110). An insulating structure (122) is placed over the transmission wire (TL). A connection pad (CP) is placed over the insulating structure (122). The connection pad (CP) can make electrical contact with the transmission wire (TL) through the insulating structure (122). The insulating structure (122) may be formed from the same layers as the insulating layers constituting the insulating structure (122) of the display area (DA).

[0087] The transfer wiring (TL) and the connection pad (CP) comprise a conductive material. For example, the transfer wiring (TL) and the connection pad (CP) may be formed from the same layer as the metal layers forming the driving element (TR) of the display area (DA). For example, the transfer wiring (TL) may be formed from the same layer as the gate metal pattern including the gate electrode. The connection pad (CP) may be formed from the same layer as the source metal pattern including the source electrode. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and the transfer wiring (TL) and the connection pad (CP) may have various known configurations.

[0088] A first dam structure (DM1) and a second dam structure (DM2) are placed on the insulating structure (122). Each of the first dam structure (DM1) and the second dam structure (DM2) can be extended to have a shape that surrounds a display area (DA), as shown in FIG. 1.

[0089] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the first dam structure (DM1) may be positioned between the second dam structure (DM2) and the connecting pad (CP).

[0090] The second dam structure (DM2) can prevent the liquid composition from flowing into the surrounding area (PA) where the connection pad (CP) is placed during the process of forming the organic thin film (134) of the encapsulation layer (130). Accordingly, the second dam structure (DM2) may be adjacent to the end of the encapsulation layer (130). According to one embodiment, a plurality of the second dam structures (DM2) may be placed to increase the reliability of preventing overflow.

[0091] The second dam structure (DM2) may include an organic material. For example, the second dam structure (DM2) may be formed from a combination of the same layer as the pixel definition layer (PDL) of the display area (DA) or a different organic insulating layer.

[0092] The inorganic thin films (132, 136) of the above-mentioned encapsulation layer (130) may extend toward the second dam structure (DM2) or toward the first dam structure (DM1).

[0093] The first dam structure (DM1) can serve to prevent the liquid composition from crossing over into the surrounding area (PA) where the connecting pad (CP) is placed during the process of forming the low-refractive index layer (140).

[0094] For example, the first dam structure (DM1) may be formed of the same material as the compensation pattern (236) of the display area (DA). For example, the first dam structure (DM1) may include a resin portion (238a) containing organic material and scatterers (238b) dispersed in the resin portion (238a).

[0095] According to one embodiment, the height of the first dam structure (DM1) may be 1 µm to 20 µm, and the width may be 1 µm to 20 µm. The distance between the first dam structure (DM1) and the display area (DA) may be 0 to 5 mm.

[0096] The end of the low-refractive layer (140) may be adjacent to the first dam structure (DM1). For example, the low-refractive layer (140) may extend from the display area (DA) to the inner surface of the first dam structure (DM1). However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and the end of the low-refractive layer (140) may be spaced apart from the first dam structure (DM1) by adjusting the amount of coating, etc.

[0097] FIGS. 5 to 8 are cross-sectional views illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 5 and 7 illustrate a display area of ​​the display device, and FIGS. 6 and 8 illustrate a peripheral area of ​​the display device.

[0098] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, a compensation pattern (236) is formed on an encapsulation layer (130) covering a light-emitting element in a display area (DA). For example, a composition including a scatterer and a binder component may be coated and cured on the encapsulation layer (130) to form a compensation pattern (236) including a resin portion (236a) and a scatterer (236b).

[0099] The compensation pattern (236) may be formed to overlap with a corresponding light-emitting region. For example, the composition may be provided on a portion of the encapsulation layer (130) through screen printing, etc. In another embodiment, the compensation pattern (236) may be formed through a photolithography process.

[0100] In the same process as forming the compensation pattern (236), a first dam structure (DM1) is formed in the surrounding area (PA). The first dam structure (DM1) may have a shape that surrounds the display area (DA). A portion of the first dam structure (DM1) may be placed between a second dam structure (DM2) and a connection pad (CP) for controlling the organic thin film (134) of the encapsulation layer (130).

[0101] The first dam structure (DM1) may have the same configuration as the compensation pattern (236). For example, the first dam structure (DM1) may include a resin portion (238a) containing organic material and scattering bodies (238b) dispersed in the resin portion (238a).

[0102] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, in the display area (DA), a first color conversion pattern (232) and a second color conversion pattern (234) are formed on the encapsulation layer (130).

[0103] The first color conversion pattern (232) and the second color conversion pattern (234) may be formed in a manner similar to the compensation pattern (236). For example, the first color conversion pattern (232) and the second color conversion pattern (234) may be formed by coating and curing a composition comprising corresponding wavelength conversion particles, scatterers, and binder components.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the first color conversion pattern (232) and the second color conversion pattern (234) may be formed after the compensation pattern (236) is formed. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and, for example, at least one of the first color conversion pattern (232) and the second color conversion pattern (234) may be formed before the compensation pattern (236) is formed.

[0105] Preferably, compositions for forming the color conversion pattern (232, 234) and the compensation pattern (236) may be curable at a relatively low temperature. For example, the compositions may be cured at a temperature of 150°C or lower, and preferably at a temperature of 100°C or lower. For example, the binder component in the compositions may include an acrylic resin, a siloxane resin, a urethane resin, an imide resin, etc., and depending on the binder component, may further include a photopolymerizable monomer, a photopolymerization initiator, a thermal polymerization initiator, a solvent, etc.

[0106] Next, a low-refractive index layer (140) covering the color conversion pattern (232, 234) and the compensation pattern (236) is formed.

[0107] For example, a composition comprising inorganic hollow particles and a binder component can be coated and cured over the color conversion pattern (232, 234) and the compensation pattern (236) to form a low-refractive index layer (140) comprising inorganic hollow particles (140a) and a resin portion (140b).

[0108] For example, the composition for forming the low refractive index layer (140) may be cured at a temperature of 150°C or lower, and preferably at a temperature of less than 100°C. For example, the composition may include a siloxane compound having an epoxy group as a binder component, and may further include a salt of a sulfonium-based cation and a borate-based anion and a suitable solvent as a cationic initiator.

[0109] For example, the composition may be provided on the display area (DA) as a slit coating. Since the composition has fluidity, it may flow from the display area (DA) to the surrounding area (PA). The first dam structure (DM1) may prevent the composition from moving to the area where the connection pad (CP) is formed.

[0110] Next, a color filter pattern (242, 244), a light-blocking member (150), and a capping layer (160) are formed on the low-refractive index layer (140) as shown in FIG. 2.

[0111] When a color conversion pattern is formed on an array substrate in a display device, a low-temperature curing process is required to protect the light-emitting element. Consequently, the luminous efficiency of the color conversion pattern containing quantum dots may be reduced.

[0112] According to embodiments of the present invention, luminous efficiency can be improved by providing a low-refractive index layer on a color conversion pattern. Accordingly, the reduction in luminous efficiency caused by low-temperature curing can be minimized or prevented.

[0113] In addition, by providing a dam structure in the surrounding area, it is possible to prevent the liquid composition from flowing into the pad portion during the process of forming the low-refractive index layer.

[0114] In addition, by forming an integrated structure of a light-emitting element and a color conversion pattern, a flexible display device, a rollable display device, etc. including a color conversion pattern can be realized.

[0115] FIGS. 9 to 14 are cross-sectional views illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 9, 11, and 13 illustrate a display area of ​​the display device, and FIGS. 10, 12, and 14 illustrate a peripheral area of ​​the display device.

[0116] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, in the display area (DA), a partition (152) is formed on the encapsulation layer (130) covering the light-emitting element.

[0117] For example, the above partition (152) may be formed in an area corresponding to a light-blocking area. Accordingly, the above partition (152) may have openings corresponding to a light-emitting area. For example, the above partition (152) may include a first opening (OP1) corresponding to a first light-emitting area, a second opening (OP2) corresponding to a second light-emitting area, and a third opening (OP3) corresponding to a third light-emitting area.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the partition (152) may include a light-blocking material. For example, at least a portion of the partition (152) may include a light-blocking material such as a pigment, dye, carbon black, etc. For example, the partition (152) may be formed from a conventional black matrix composition, and the partition (152) may be formed through screen printing, photolithography, etc.

[0119] In the same process as forming the above partition (152), a first dam structure (DM1) is formed in the surrounding area (PA). The first dam structure (DM1) may have a shape that surrounds the display area (DA). A portion of the first dam structure (DM1) may be placed between a second dam structure (DM2) and a connecting pad (CP) for controlling the organic thin film (134) of the encapsulation layer (130).

[0120] The first dam structure (DM1) may have the same configuration as the bulkhead (152). For example, the first dam structure (DM1) may include a binder resin and a light-blocking material.

[0121] Referring to FIG. 11, a color conversion pattern (232, 234) and a compensation pattern (236) are formed using inkjet printing.

[0122] For example, an inkjet printing device may be used to form the color conversion pattern (232, 234) and the compensation pattern (236). The inkjet printing device may include a head comprising a plurality of nozzles.

[0123] The inkjet printing device may provide a composition to the openings (OP1, OP2, OP3) of the partition wall (152) through the head and the nozzle. For example, the inkjet printing device may provide a first composition to the first opening (OP1), a second composition to the second opening (OP2), and a third composition to the third opening (OP3).

[0124] According to one embodiment, the first composition and the third composition may include wavelength-converting particles. For example, the first composition and the third composition may include wavelength-converting particles, a binder component, and a solvent.

[0125] For example, the wavelength-converting particles may include quantum dots. According to one embodiment, the first composition may include quantum dots that emit red light, and the third composition may include quantum dots that emit green light. The quantum dots may include organic ligands bonded to their surfaces.

[0126] The binder component may include a polymer, a polymerizable monomer, or a combination thereof. For example, the polymer may include an aromatic ring structure within its main chain. For example, the aromatic ring structure may include phenylene, biphenylene, fluorene, etc. The polymerizable monomer may have one or more carbon-carbon double bonds. For example, the polymerizable monomer may include a (meth)acrylate compound.

[0127] The above solvent may be appropriately selected or combined from among various known materials, taking into account the affinity with other components, the dispersibility of quantum dots, viscosity, boiling point, etc.

[0128] The first and third compositions may further include a scatterer, a photoinitiator, a polymer stabilizer, a leveling agent, a coupling agent, or a combination thereof, as needed.

[0129] The second composition may comprise substantially the same components as the first composition or the third composition, except that it does not include wavelength-converting particles. For example, the second composition may comprise a binder component and a solvent, and may further comprise a scatterer, a photoinitiator, a polymer stabilizer, a leveling agent, a coupling agent, or a combination thereof as needed.

[0130] The inkjet printing device provides ink droplets comprising a composition corresponding to the openings (OP1, OP2, OP3). Accordingly, the openings (OP1, OP2, OP3) can be filled.

[0131] The compositions filled in the openings (OP1, OP2, OP3) can be cured to form a color change pattern (232, 234) and a compensation pattern (236). For example, the compositions can be heat-cured and photocured at low temperature.

[0132] Next, a low-refractive index layer (140) covering the color conversion pattern (232, 234) and the compensation pattern (236) is formed. The low-refractive index layer (140) can be formed in the same way as previously described.

[0133] The above first dam structure (DM1) can prevent the composition for forming the low-refractive index layer (140) from moving to the surrounding area (PA) where the connecting pad (CP) is formed.

[0134] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, a color filter pattern (242, 244) and a capping layer (160) are formed on the low-refractive index layer (140). For example, the capping layer (160) may extend into a peripheral area (PA).

[0135] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a pixel area of ​​a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a peripheral area of ​​a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 15, the display device may include a first color filter pattern (242) overlapping with a first light-emitting region (LA1), a second color filter pattern (246) overlapping with a second light-emitting region (LA2), and a third color filter pattern (244) overlapping with a third light-emitting region (LA3).

[0137] For example, the first color filter pattern (242) may be a red filter, the second color filter pattern (246) may be a blue filter, and the third color filter pattern (244) may be a green filter.

[0138] As described, the display device according to the embodiments of the present invention may further include a blue filter as needed.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 16, in the display device, if the capping layer (160) contains an organic material, a third dam structure (DM3) may be added to prevent the composition for forming the capping layer (160) from moving to the connection pad (CP).

[0140] For example, the first dam structure (DM1) may be formed from the same layer as the compensation pattern of the display area and may include a resin portion (238a) containing organic material and scatterers (238b) dispersed in the resin portion (238a). The third dam structure (DM3) may be formed from the same layer as the light-blocking member of the display area and may include a light-blocking material.

[0141] The third dam structure (DM3) may have a shape that surrounds the indicated area. For example, the third dam structure (DM3) may be placed on top of the first dam structure (DM1).

[0142] Embodiments of the present invention can be applied to various display devices, such as organic light-emitting display devices, electroluminescent display devices, micro LED display devices, etc.

[0143] Although the foregoing description refers to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and changes can be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims. Industrial applicability

[0144] The present invention can be applied to various display devices. For example, the present invention can be applied to various display devices such as display devices for vehicles, ships, and aircraft, portable communication devices, display devices for exhibition or information transmission, medical display devices, etc.

Claims

Claim 1 A display device comprising: a substrate including a display area and a peripheral area adjacent to the display area; light-emitting elements disposed in the display area; an encapsulation layer covering the light-emitting elements and including an organic layer; a first dam structure disposed in the peripheral area; a color conversion pattern layer including a first color conversion pattern overlapping with the first light-emitting element among the light-emitting elements; and a resin layer disposed on the color conversion pattern layer and having a side facing the side of the first dam structure. Claim 2 A display device according to claim 1, further comprising a partition wall disposed on the encapsulation layer and having openings that overlap with each of the light-emitting elements, wherein the first dam structure and the partition wall are formed in the same layer. Claim 3 A display device according to paragraph 2, wherein the bulkhead and the first dam structure each comprise a light-blocking material. Claim 4 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the color conversion pattern layer includes a transmission pattern that overlaps with a second light-emitting element among the light-emitting elements and transmits incident light, and the first dam structure and the transmission pattern are formed as the same layer. Claim 5 A display device according to claim 4, wherein the light incident on the transmission pattern and the light emitted from the transmission pattern have a blue color. Claim 6 A display device according to claim 4, wherein light incident on the first color conversion pattern has blue light, and light emitted from the first color conversion pattern has red or green light. Claim 7 A display device according to claim 4, further comprising a partition wall having a plurality of openings that overlap each with the light-emitting elements, wherein the first color conversion pattern and the transmission pattern are disposed within the openings of the partition wall. Claim 8 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the resin layer does not cover the upper surface of the first dam structure. Claim 9 In paragraph 1, the first dam structure is a display device surrounding the display area. Claim 10 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the resin layer comprises hollow particles dispersed within the resin layer. Claim 11 A display device according to claim 1, further comprising a color filter pattern disposed on the resin layer. Claim 12 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the refractive index of the resin layer is 1.3 or less. Claim 13 A display device comprising: a substrate including a display area and a peripheral area adjacent to the display area; light-emitting elements disposed in the display area; an encapsulation layer covering the light-emitting elements and including an organic layer; a first dam structure and a second dam structure disposed in the peripheral area; a resin layer disposed on the encapsulation layer and having a side facing the side of the first dam structure, wherein the second dam structure is disposed between the edge of the organic layer and the first dam structure. Claim 14 In paragraph 13, a display device wherein a portion of the resin layer is disposed between the first dam structure and the second dam structure. Claim 15 In paragraph 13, the display device wherein the first dam structure has a greater height than the second dam structure. Claim 16 A display device according to claim 13, further comprising the first dam structure and a capping layer covering the resin layer. Claim 17 In paragraph 16, the capping layer comprises an inorganic material, forming a display device. Claim 18 A display device comprising: a substrate including a display area and a peripheral area adjacent to the display area; light-emitting elements disposed in the display area; an encapsulation layer covering the light-emitting elements; a first dam structure disposed in the peripheral area; a resin layer disposed on the encapsulation layer and having a side facing the side of the first dam structure; and a first color conversion pattern comprising a wavelength conversion particle that overlaps with the first light-emitting element among the light-emitting elements and converts the color of incident light, wherein the first color conversion pattern is disposed between the encapsulation layer and the resin layer, and the resin layer has a refractive index smaller than that of the first color conversion pattern. Claim 19 A display device according to claim 18, further comprising a light-shielding pattern disposed on the resin layer and having an opening, and a color filter pattern disposed within the opening of the light-shielding pattern.

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