Display device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a display device. A display device according to one embodiment comprises a plurality of first banks extending in a first direction and spaced apart from each other on a first substrate, a first electrode and a second electrode extending in the first direction and spaced apart from each other on different first banks, a first insulating layer covering the first electrode, the second electrode and the plurality of first banks, a plurality of first patterns extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction and spaced apart from each other on the first insulating layer, and a plurality of light-emitting elements disposed between adjacent first patterns among the plurality of first patterns, with both ends on the first insulating layer respectively disposed on the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein the height of the first pattern may be greater than the diameter of the light-emitting element.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a display device. Background Technology

[0002] The importance of display devices is increasing along with the development of multimedia. In response to this, various types of display devices, such as Organic Light Emitting Displays (OLEDs) and Liquid Crystal Displays (LCDs), are being used.

[0003] A device for displaying images of a display device includes a display panel such as an organic light-emitting display panel or a liquid crystal display panel. Among these, as a light-emitting display panel, it may include a light-emitting element; for example, in the case of a light-emitting diode (LED), there are organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) that use organic materials as fluorescent materials and inorganic light-emitting diodes that use inorganic materials as fluorescent materials. The problem to be solved

[0004] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a display device in which the alignment of light-emitting elements disposed on an electrode is improved.

[0005] The problems of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned technical problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below. means of solving the problem

[0006] A display device according to one embodiment for solving the above problem comprises a plurality of first banks extending in a first direction on a first substrate and spaced apart from each other, a first electrode and a second electrode extending in the first direction and spaced apart from each other on different first banks, a first insulating layer covering the first electrode, the second electrode and the plurality of first banks, a plurality of first patterns extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction on the first insulating layer and spaced apart from each other, and a plurality of light-emitting elements disposed between adjacent first patterns among the plurality of first patterns, with both ends on the first insulating layer respectively disposed on the first electrode and the second electrode, and the height of the first pattern may be greater than the diameter of the light-emitting element.

[0007] The plurality of first patterns may overlap with the plurality of first banks and may intersect perpendicularly with the plurality of first banks.

[0008] A light-emitting element is disposed between two of the first patterns, and the length direction of the light-emitting element may be parallel to the extension direction of the first patterns.

[0009] The pitch of the first patterns above may be greater than the spacing of the first patterns above.

[0010] The spacing of the first patterns above may be greater than 0.5 μm and less than 4 μm.

[0011] The width of the first pattern above may be greater than 1 μm and less than 4.5 μm.

[0012] The cross-section of the first pattern above may be any one of a trapezoid, a square, or a rectangle.

[0013] It may further include a second bank that surrounds the plurality of light-emitting elements, the first electrode, the second electrode, and the plurality of first banks, and defines a light-emitting region.

[0014] The above plurality of first patterns can be non-overlapping with the above second bank.

[0015] The height of the first pattern above may be greater than 0.5 μm and smaller than the height of the second bank above.

[0016] The first pattern may include a first sub-pattern and a second sub-pattern that are extended in the second direction and spaced apart in the first direction.

[0017] The gap between the first sub-pattern and the second sub-pattern may be smaller than the diameter of the light-emitting element.

[0018] The first pattern above is positioned between the plurality of first banks and can be non-overlapping with the plurality of first banks.

[0019] It may further include a first contact electrode disposed on the first electrode and in contact with one end of the light-emitting element, and a second contact electrode disposed on the second electrode and in contact with the other end of the light-emitting element.

[0020] Additionally, a display device according to one embodiment includes a plurality of first banks extending in a first direction on a first substrate and spaced apart from each other, a first electrode and a second electrode extending in the first direction and spaced apart from each other on different first banks, a first insulating layer covering the first electrode, the second electrode and the plurality of first banks, a plurality of first patterns extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction on the first insulating layer and spaced apart from each other, and a plurality of light-emitting elements disposed between adjacent first patterns among the plurality of first patterns, with both ends on the first insulating layer respectively disposed on the first electrode and the second electrode, and the width of the first pattern may be larger than the diameter of the light-emitting element and smaller than the pitch of the first patterns.

[0021] The width of the first pattern above may be greater than 1 μm and less than 4.5 μm.

[0022] The pitch of the first patterns above may be greater than the spacing of the first patterns and less than 5 μm.

[0023] The plurality of light-emitting elements, the first electrode, the second electrode, and the plurality of first banks are surrounded by a second bank that defines a light-emitting region, and the plurality of first patterns may not overlap with the second bank.

[0024] The first pattern may include a first sub-pattern and a second sub-pattern that are extended in the second direction and spaced apart in the first direction.

[0025] The first pattern above is positioned between the plurality of first banks and can be non-overlapping with the plurality of first banks.

[0026] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings. Effects of the invention

[0027] According to the embodiments, the display device includes a plurality of patterns arranged between banks in which electrodes are arranged. The plurality of patterns may be spaced apart along the direction in which the electrodes and banks extend to form a step in the region between the banks. This may provide a region in which light-emitting elements can be arranged between the patterns similar to the plurality of banks, and during the manufacturing process of the display device, the light-emitting elements may be induced to be arranged between the spaced-apart patterns, which is a region in which the electric field strength is relatively high.

[0028] Accordingly, the display device can minimize the number of light-emitting elements that are lost and not connected to electrodes by being placed in areas other than between banks during the manufacturing process. In addition, the light-emitting elements placed between the patterns can have both ends smoothly placed on the electrodes, thereby improving the alignment of the light-emitting elements.

[0029] The effects according to the embodiments are not limited to those exemplified above, and a wider variety of effects are included in this specification. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0030] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a display device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing one pixel of a display device according to one embodiment. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the Q1-Q1' line, Q2-Q2' line and Q3-Q3' line of Figure 2. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line Q4-Q4' of Figure 2. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line Q5-Q5' of Figure 2. Figure 6 is a drawing showing an enlarged view of area A of Figure 5. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing first patterns according to one embodiment. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a light-emitting element according to one embodiment. FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view of a display device according to another embodiment. FIG. 10 is a plan view showing one pixel of a display device according to another embodiment. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line Q6-Q6' of Figure 10. Figure 12 is an enlarged view of area B of Figure 11. FIG. 13 is a plan view showing one pixel of a display device according to another embodiment. Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line Q7-Q7' of Figure 13. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the first pattern of FIG. 13 and a light-emitting element. FIGS. 16 to 22 are cross-sectional views showing part of the manufacturing process of a display device according to one embodiment. Figure 23 is a schematic diagram showing the electric field strength distribution. Figure 24 is a graph showing the absolute value of the electric field strength. FIGS. 25 and FIGS. 26 are cross-sectional views showing part of the manufacturing process of a display device according to one embodiment. FIG. 27 is a plan view showing one subpixel of a display device according to another embodiment. FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line Q8-Q8' of FIG. 27. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0031] The advantages and features of the present invention and the methods for achieving them will become clear by referring to the embodiments described below in detail together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below but may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided merely to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims.

[0032] When elements or layers are referred to as being "on" another element or layer, this includes cases where another layer or element is interposed directly on or in the middle of another element. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same components. Shapes, sizes, ratios, angles, numbers, etc., disclosed in the drawings for describing embodiments are exemplary and therefore the invention is not limited to the depicted details.

[0033] Although terms such as "first," "second," etc., are used to describe various components, it goes without saying that these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another. Therefore, it goes without saying that the first component mentioned below may also be the second component within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0034] The features of each of the various embodiments of the present invention may be combined or combined with one another, either partially or wholly, and may technically enable various interlocking and operation. Each embodiment may be implemented independently of one another or may be implemented together in an associated relationship.

[0035] Specific embodiments will be described below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0036] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a display device according to one embodiment.

[0037] Referring to FIG. 1, the display device (10) can display video or still images. The display device (10) may refer to any electronic device that provides a display screen. For example, a television, laptop, monitor, billboard, Internet of Things, mobile phone, smartphone, tablet PC (Personal Computer), electronic watch, smart watch, watch phone, head-mounted display, mobile communication terminal, electronic notebook, e-book, PMP (Portable Multimedia Player), navigation, game console, digital camera, camcorder, etc. that provide a display screen may be included in the display device (10).

[0038] The display device (10) may include a display panel that provides a display screen. Examples of display panels include an inorganic light-emitting diode display panel, an organic light-emitting diode display panel, a quantum dot light-emitting diode display panel, a plasma display panel, a field emission display panel, etc. In the following description, an inorganic light-emitting diode display panel is used as an example of a display panel, but it is not limited thereto, and if the same technical concept is applicable, it can be applied to other display panels.

[0039] The shape of the display device (10) can be varied in many ways. For example, the display device (10) may have a shape such as a horizontally elongated rectangle, a vertically elongated rectangle, a square, a rectangle with rounded corners (vertices), other polygons, a circle, etc. The shape of the display area (DPA) of the display device (10) may also be similar to the overall shape of the display device (10). In FIG. 1, a display device (10) and a display area (DPA) in the shape of a horizontally elongated rectangle are exemplified.

[0040] The display device (10) may include a display area (DPA) and a non-display area (NDA). The display area (DPA) is an area where the screen can be displayed, and the non-display area (NDA) is an area where the screen is not displayed. The display area (DPA) may also be referred to as an active area, and the non-display area (NDA) as an inactive area. The display area (DPA) may generally occupy the center of the display device (10).

[0041] The display area (DPA) may include a plurality of pixels (PX). The plurality of pixels (PX) may be arranged in a matrix direction. The shape of each pixel (PX) may be a planar rectangle or a square, but is not limited thereto, and may be a rhombus shape with each side tilted toward one direction. Each pixel (PX) may be arranged alternately in a stripe type or a pentile type. Additionally, each of the pixels (PX) may include one or more light-emitting elements (30) that emit light of a specific wavelength range to display a specific color.

[0042] A non-display area (NDA) may be placed around a display area (DPA). The non-display area (NDA) may surround the display area (DPA) in whole or in part. The display area (DPA) is rectangular in shape, and the non-display area (NDA) may be placed adjacent to the four sides of the display area (DPA). The non-display area (NDA) may form the bezel of the display device (10). In each non-display area (NDA), wiring or circuit drivers included in the display device (10) may be placed, or external devices may be mounted.

[0043] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing one pixel of a display device according to one embodiment.

[0044] Referring to FIG. 2, each of the plurality of pixels (PX) may include a plurality of subpixels (PXn, where n is an integer from 1 to 3). For example, one pixel (PX) may include a first subpixel (PX1), a second subpixel (PX2), and a third subpixel (PX3). The first subpixel (PX1) may emit light of a first color, the second subpixel (PX2) may emit light of a second color, and the third subpixel (PX3) may emit light of a third color. The first color may be blue, the second color may be green, and the third color may be red. However, not limited thereto, each subpixel (PXn) may emit light of the same color. Additionally, FIG. 2 illustrates that the pixel (PX) includes three subpixels (PXn), but is not limited thereto, and the pixel (PX) may include a larger number of subpixels (PXn).

[0045] Each subpixel (PXn) of the display device (10) may include a light-emitting region (EMA) and a non-light-emitting region (not shown). The light-emitting region (EMA) is a region where a light-emitting element (30) is placed and light of a specific wavelength range is emitted, and the non-light-emitting region may be a region where a light-emitting element (30) is not placed and light emitted from the light-emitting element (30) does not reach, so no light is emitted. The light-emitting region may include a region where a light-emitting element (30) is placed, and may include a region adjacent to the light-emitting element (30) where light emitted from the light-emitting element (30) is emitted.

[0046] Not limited thereto, the light-emitting region may also include a region where light emitted from a light-emitting element (30) is reflected or refracted by another member and emitted. A plurality of light-emitting elements (30) are arranged in each sub-pixel (PXn), and a light-emitting region may be formed by including the region where they are arranged and the region adjacent thereto.

[0047] Additionally, each subpixel (PXn) may include a cutting area (CBA) placed in a non-emissive region. The cutting area (CBA) may be placed on one side of the second direction (DR2) of the emitting region (EMA). The cutting area (CBA) may be placed between the emitting regions (EMA) of the subpixels (PXn) adjacent in the second direction (DR2). A plurality of emitting regions (EMA) and cutting areas (CBA) may be arranged in the display area (DPA) of the display device (10). For example, a plurality of emitting regions (EMA) and cutting areas (CBA) may be arranged repeatedly in the first direction (DR1), while the emitting regions (EMA) and cutting areas (CBA) may be arranged alternately in the second direction (DR2). Additionally, the spacing of the cutting areas (CBA) in the first direction (DR1) may be smaller than the spacing of the emitting regions (EMA) in the first direction (DR1). A second bank (45) is disposed between the cutting regions (CBA) and the light-emitting regions (EMA), and the spacing between them may vary depending on the width of the second bank (45). Light is not emitted because the light-emitting element (30) is not disposed in the cutting regions (CBA), but some of the electrodes (21, 22) disposed in each subpixel (PXn) may be disposed therein. The electrodes (21, 22) disposed in each subpixel (PXn) may be disposed separated from each other in the cutting regions (CBA).

[0048] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines Q1-Q1', Q2-Q2', and Q3-Q3' of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line Q4-Q4' of FIG. 2. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line Q5-Q5' of FIG. 2. FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of area A of FIG. 5. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing first patterns according to one embodiment.

[0049] FIG. 3 illustrates only the cross-section of the first subpixel (PX1) of FIG. 2, but the same can be applied to other pixels (PX) or subpixels (PXn). FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-section crossing one end and the other end of a light-emitting element (30) placed in the first subpixel (PX1). FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-section crossing the first pattern (70) placed in the first subpixel (PX1).

[0050] Referring to FIG. 3 to FIG. 5 in conjunction with FIG. 2, the display device (10) may include a first substrate (11), a semiconductor layer disposed on the first substrate (11), a plurality of conductive layers, and a plurality of insulating layers.

[0051] Specifically, the first substrate (11) may be an insulating substrate. The first substrate (11) may be made of an insulating material such as glass, quartz, or polymer resin. Additionally, the first substrate (11) may be a rigid substrate, but may also be a flexible substrate capable of bending, folding, rolling, etc.

[0052] A light-blocking layer (BML) may be disposed on the first substrate (11). The light-blocking layer (BML) is disposed to overlap with the active layer (ACT) of the first transistor (TR1) of the display device (10). The light-blocking layer (BML1) may include a material that blocks light, thereby preventing light from being incident on the active layer (ACT) of the first transistor. As an example, the light-blocking layer (BML) may be formed of an opaque metallic material that blocks the transmission of light. However, it is not limited thereto, and in some cases, the light-blocking layer (BML) may be omitted.

[0053] The buffer layer (12) may be disposed over the entire surface of the first substrate (11), including a light-blocking layer (BML). The buffer layer (12) is formed on the first substrate (11) to protect the first transistors (TR1) of the pixel (PX) from moisture penetrating through the first substrate (11), which is susceptible to moisture permeability, and can perform a surface flattening function. The buffer layer (12) may be composed of a plurality of inorganic layers that are alternately stacked. For example, the buffer layer (12) may be formed as a multilayer in which inorganic layers comprising at least one of silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), and silicon oxynitride (SiON) are alternately stacked.

[0054] The semiconductor layer is placed on the buffer layer (12). The semiconductor layer may include the active layer (ACT) of the first transistor (TR1). These may be arranged to partially overlap with the gate electrode (GE) of the first gate conductive layer described later.

[0055] Meanwhile, the drawing shows only the first transistor (TR1) among the transistors included in the subpixel (PXn) of the display device (10), but is not limited thereto. The display device (10) may include a larger number of transistors. For example, the display device (10) may include two or three transistors by including one or more transistors in addition to the first transistor (TR1) for each subpixel (PXn).

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, the semiconductor layer may include polycrystalline silicon, single-crystal silicon, oxide semiconductor, etc. When the semiconductor layer includes an oxide semiconductor, each active layer (ACT) may include a plurality of conductive regions (ACTa, ACTb) and a channel region (ACTc) between them. The oxide semiconductor may be an oxide semiconductor containing indium (In). In some embodiments, the oxide semiconductor may be indium-tin oxide (ITO), indium-zinc oxide (IZO), indium-gallium oxide (IGO), indium-zinc-tin oxide (IZTO), indium-gallium-tin oxide (IGTO), indium-gallium-zinc oxide (IGZO), indium-gallium-zinc-tin oxide (IGZTO), etc.

[0057] In another exemplary embodiment, the semiconductor layer may comprise polycrystalline silicon. Polycrystalline silicon may be formed by crystallizing amorphous silicon, in which case the conductive regions of the active layer (ACT) may each be doped regions doped with impurities.

[0058] The first gate insulating layer (13) is disposed on the semiconductor layer and the buffer layer (12). The first gate insulating layer (13) may be disposed on the buffer layer (12) by including a semiconductor layer. The first gate insulating layer (13) may function as a gate insulating film for each transistor. The first gate insulating layer (13) may be composed of an inorganic layer including an inorganic material, such as silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), or silicon oxynitride (SiON), or may be formed in a stacked structure.

[0059] A first gate conductive layer is disposed on a first gate insulating layer (13). The first gate conductive layer may include a gate electrode (GE) of a first transistor (TR1) and a first capacitance electrode (CSE) of a storage capacitor. The gate electrode (GE) may be disposed to overlap in the thickness direction with the channel region (ACTc) of the active layer (ACT). The first capacitance electrode (CSE) may be disposed to overlap in the thickness direction with the second source / drain electrode (SD2) of the first transistor (TR1), which will be described later. In some embodiments, the first capacitance electrode (CSE) may be connected to the gate electrode (GE) and integrated, and the integrated layer may partially include the gate electrode (GE) and the first capacitance electrode (CSE). The first capacitance electrode (CSE) may be disposed to overlap in the thickness direction with the second source / drain electrode (SD2) so that a storage capacitor may be formed between them.

[0060] The first gate conductive layer may be formed as a single layer or a multilayer composed of any one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu), or an alloy thereof. However, it is not limited thereto.

[0061] The first protective layer (15) is disposed on the first gate conductive layer. The first protective layer (15) is disposed to cover the first gate conductive layer and can perform the function of protecting it. The first protective layer (15) may be composed of an inorganic layer including an inorganic material, such as silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), or silicon oxynitride (SiON), or may be formed in a stacked structure.

[0062] The first data conductive layer is disposed on the first protective layer (15). The first data conductive layer may include a first source / drain electrode (SD1) and a second source / drain electrode (SD2) of the first transistor (TR1), and a data line (DTL).

[0063] The source / drain electrodes (SD1, SD2) of the first transistor (TR1) can each come into contact with the doping regions (ACTa, ACTb) of the active layer (ACT) through a contact hole penetrating the first interlayer insulating layer (17) and the first gate insulating layer (13). Additionally, the second source / drain electrode (SD2) of the first transistor (TR1) can be electrically connected to the light-blocking layer (BML) through another contact hole.

[0064] The data line (DTL) can apply a data signal to another transistor (not shown) included in the display device (10). Although not shown in the drawing, the data line (DTL) can be connected to the source / drain electrodes of another transistor to transmit the signal applied from the data line (DTL).

[0065] The first data conductive layer may be formed as a single layer or a multilayer composed of any one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu), or an alloy thereof. However, it is not limited thereto.

[0066] The first interlayer insulating layer (17) is disposed on the first data conductive layer. The first interlayer insulating layer (17) can function as an insulating film between the first data conductive layer and other layers disposed thereon. Additionally, the first interlayer insulating layer (17) can cover the first data conductive layer and perform the function of protecting the first data conductive layer. The first interlayer insulating layer (17) may be composed of an inorganic layer including an inorganic material, such as silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), or silicon oxynitride (SiON), or may be formed in a stacked structure.

[0067] A second data conductive layer is disposed on the first interlayer insulating layer (17). The second data conductive layer may include a first voltage line (VL1), a second voltage line (VL2), and a first conductive pattern (CDP). A high potential voltage (or a first power supply voltage) supplied to the first transistor (TR1) may be applied to the first voltage line (VL1), and a low potential voltage (or a second power supply voltage) supplied to the second electrode (22) may be applied to the second voltage line (VL2). Additionally, an alignment signal required to align a light-emitting element (30) during the manufacturing process of the display device (10) may be applied to the second voltage line (VL2).

[0068] The first conductive pattern (CDP) can be electrically connected to the second source / drain electrode (SD2) of the first transistor (TR1) through a contact hole formed in the first interlayer insulating layer (17). The first conductive pattern (CDP) also contacts the first electrode (21) described later, and the first transistor (TR1) can transmit the first power supply voltage applied from the first voltage wiring (VL1) to the first electrode (21) through the first conductive pattern (CDP). Meanwhile, although the drawing shows the second data conductive layer including one second voltage wiring (VL2) and one first voltage wiring (VL1), it is not limited thereto. The second data conductive layer may include a larger number of first voltage wirings (VL1) and second voltage wirings (VL2).

[0069] The second data conductive layer may be formed as a single layer or a multilayer composed of any one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), and copper (Cu), or an alloy thereof. However, it is not limited thereto.

[0070] The first flattening layer (19) is disposed on the second data conductive layer. The first flattening layer (19) may include an organic insulating material, such as polyimide (PI), and may perform a surface flattening function.

[0071] A plurality of first banks (40), a first pattern (70), a plurality of electrodes (21, 22), a light-emitting element (30), a second bank (45), and a plurality of contact electrodes (26, 27) are disposed on the first flattening layer (19). Additionally, a plurality of insulating layers (51, 52, 53, 54) may be further disposed on the first flattening layer (19).

[0072] A plurality of first banks (40) may be placed directly on the first flattening layer (19). A plurality of first banks (40) may be placed within the light-emitting region (EMA) and extend in the second direction (DR2) within each sub-pixel (PXn), but not extend to other sub-pixels (PXn) adjacent in the second direction (DR2). Additionally, a plurality of first banks (40) may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction (DR1) to form a region where a light-emitting element (30) is placed between them. A plurality of first banks (40) may be placed in each sub-pixel (PXn) to form a linear pattern in the display area (DPA) of the display device (10). Although two first banks (40) are shown in the drawing, they are not limited thereto. Depending on the number of electrodes (21, 22) described later, a larger number of first banks (40) may be placed.

[0073] The first bank (40) may have a structure in which at least a portion protrudes with respect to the upper surface of the first flattening layer (19). The protruding portion of the first bank (40) may have an inclined side, and light emitted from the light-emitting element (30) may proceed toward the inclined side of the first bank (40). The electrodes (21, 22) placed on the first bank (40) may include a material with high reflectivity, and light emitted from the light-emitting element (30) may be reflected from the electrodes (21, 22) placed on the side of the first bank (40) and emitted toward the upper direction of the first flattening layer (19). That is, the first bank (40) may provide an area where the light-emitting element (30) is placed, and at the same time, perform the function of a reflective barrier that reflects light emitted from the light-emitting element (30) toward the upper direction. The side of the first bank (40) may be inclined in a linear shape, but is not limited thereto, and the first bank (40) may have a curved outer surface in the shape of a semicircle or semi-ellipse. In an exemplary embodiment, the first banks (40) may include an organic insulating material such as polyimide (PI), but are not limited thereto.

[0074] A plurality of electrodes (21, 22) are disposed on the first bank (40) and the first flattening layer (19). The plurality of electrodes (21, 22) may include a first electrode (21) and a second electrode (22). The first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22) extend in a second direction (DR2), and may be disposed so as to be spaced apart from each other in a first direction (DR1).

[0075] The first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22) each extend in a second direction (DR2) within a subpixel (PXn), but may be separated from other electrodes (21, 22) in a cutting region (CBA). In some embodiments, a cutting region (CBA) is placed between the light-emitting regions (EMA) of subpixels (PXn) adjacent to the second direction (DR2), and the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22) may be separated from other first electrodes (21) and second electrodes (22) placed in subpixels (PXn) adjacent to the second direction (DR2) in the cutting region (CBA). However, this is not limited thereto, and some electrodes (21, 22) may be placed extending beyond subpixels (PXn) adjacent to the second direction (DR2) without being separated for each subpixel (PXn), or only one of the first electrode (21) or the second electrode (22) may be separated.

[0076] The first electrode (21) may be electrically connected to the first transistor (TR1) through the first contact hole (CT1), and the second electrode (22) may be electrically connected to the second voltage wiring (VL2) through the second contact hole (CT2). For example, the first electrode (21) may contact the first conductive pattern (CDP) through the first contact hole (CT1) penetrating the first flattening layer (19) in the portion extended in the first direction (DR1) of the second bank (45). The second electrode (22) may also contact the second voltage wiring (VL2) through the second contact hole (CT2) penetrating the first flattening layer (19) in the portion extended in the first direction (DR1) of the second bank (45). However, it is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the first contact hole (CT1) and the second contact hole (CT2) may be placed within the light-emitting region (EMA) surrounded by the second bank (45) so as not to overlap with the second bank (45).

[0077] In the drawings, one first electrode (21) and one second electrode (22) are exemplified for each subpixel (PXn), but are not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the number of first electrodes (21) and second electrodes (22) occupied for each subpixel (PXn) may be greater. Additionally, the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22) occupied for each subpixel (PXn) may not necessarily have a shape that extends in one direction, and the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22) may be occupied in various structures. For example, the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22) may have a partially curved or bent shape, and one electrode may be occupied to surround the other electrode.

[0078] The first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22) may each be placed on the first banks (40). In some embodiments, the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22) may each be formed to have a width greater than that of the first bank (40). For example, the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22) may each be placed to cover the outer surface of the first bank (40). The first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22) are each placed on the side of the first bank (40), and the gap between the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22) may be narrower than the gap between the first banks (40). Additionally, the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22) may have at least some portions placed directly on the first flattening layer (19) so that they may be placed on the same plane.

[0079] Each electrode (21, 22) may include a highly reflective conductive material. For example, each electrode (21, 22) may include a metal such as silver (Ag), copper (Cu), or aluminum (Al) as a highly reflective material, or an alloy including aluminum (Al), nickel (Ni), or lanthanum (La). Each electrode (21, 22) may reflect light emitted from the light-emitting element (30) and traveling toward the side of the first bank (BNL1) toward the upper direction of each subpixel (PXn).

[0080] However, not limited thereto, each electrode (21, 22) may further include a transparent conductive material. For example, each electrode (21, 22) may include a material such as ITO (Indium Tin Oxide), IZO (Indium Zinc Oxide), ITZO (Indium Tin-Zinc Oxide), etc. In some embodiments, each electrode (21, 22) may have a structure in which a transparent conductive material and a highly reflective metal layer are each stacked one or more times, or may be formed as a single layer including these. For example, each electrode (21, 22) may have a stacked structure such as ITO / Silver(Ag) / ITO / , ITO / Ag / IZO, or ITO / Ag / ITZO / IZO.

[0081] A plurality of electrodes (21, 22) are electrically connected to light-emitting elements (30), and a predetermined voltage may be applied so that the light-emitting elements (30) emit light. For example, the plurality of electrodes (21, 22) are electrically connected to the light-emitting elements (30) through contact electrodes (26, 27) described later, and an electrical signal applied to the electrodes (21, 22) can be transmitted to the light-emitting elements (30) through the contact electrodes (26, 27).

[0082] In an exemplary embodiment, either the first electrode (21) or the second electrode (22) may be electrically connected to the anode electrode of the light-emitting element (30), and the other may be electrically connected to the cathode electrode of the light-emitting element (30). However, this is not limited thereto, and the opposite may also be true.

[0083] Additionally, each electrode (21, 22) may be utilized to form an electric field within a subpixel (PXn) to align the light-emitting element (30). The light-emitting element (30) may be positioned between the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22) by the electric field formed on the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22). In an exemplary embodiment, the light-emitting element (30) of the display device (10) may be sprayed onto the electrodes (21, 22) through an inkjet printing process. When ink containing the light-emitting element (30) is sprayed onto the electrodes (21, 22), an alignment signal is applied to the electrodes (21, 22) to generate an electric field (or electric field). The light-emitting element (30) dispersed in the ink may be aligned onto the electrodes (21, 22) by receiving a dielectrophoretic force from the electric field generated on the electrodes (21, 22).

[0084] A first insulating layer (51) is disposed on the first flattening layer (19). The first insulating layer (51) is disposed to cover the first banks (40), the first electrode (21), and the second electrode (22) disposed on the first flattening layer (19), but may be disposed so that a portion of the upper surface of the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22) is exposed. In other words, the first insulating layer (51) is substantially formed over the entire surface of the first flattening layer (19) and may include an opening (not shown) that partially exposes the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22).

[0085] In an exemplary embodiment, the first insulating layer (51) may be formed with a step so that a portion of the upper surface is recessed between the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22). As the first insulating layer (51) is positioned to cover the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22) arranged between the first banks (40), a portion of the upper surface may be stepped along the first direction (DR1) in which the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22) are arranged.

[0086] The first insulating layer (51) can protect the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22) while simultaneously insulating them from each other. Additionally, it can prevent the light-emitting element (30) placed on the first insulating layer (51) from being damaged by direct contact with other components.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the display device (10) may include a plurality of first patterns (70) disposed between first banks (40). The plurality of first patterns (70) may be disposed on a first insulating layer (51). The plurality of first patterns (70) may have a lower thickness than the first banks (40) and may be spaced apart in a second direction (DR2) between them. Additionally, the width of the first patterns (70) may be greater than the spacing between the first banks (40) and smaller than the spacing between the second banks (45) described later. The first patterns (70) may be spaced apart from the second banks (45). The cross-section of the first patterns (70) may be in the shape of a trapezoid. The cross-sectional shape of the first patterns (70) may generally have a cross-sectional shape in which organic material is patterned. However, it is not limited thereto.

[0088] As described above, the first banks (40) can form an area in which light-emitting elements (30) are placed between them. During the manufacturing process of the display device (10), the light-emitting elements (30) are sprayed onto the electrodes (21, 22) described later in a state dispersed in ink, and can be placed on them by an electric field generated on the electrodes (21, 22). Here, the first banks (40) placed for each subpixel (PXn) have a shape protruding from the upper surface of the first flattening layer (19), thereby distinguishing between the area between them and the area outside thereof, and can induce the light-emitting elements (30) to be placed between the first banks (40).

[0089] Similarly, a plurality of first patterns (70) arranged between the first banks (40) can form a step in the area where light-emitting elements (30) are arranged between the first banks (40). The portion where the first patterns (70) are arranged and the portion where they are spaced apart from each other along the second direction (DR2) can be distinguished, and the light-emitting elements (30) can be induced to be arranged between the spaced-apart first patterns (70). Accordingly, the light-emitting elements (30) can be arranged in a specific area between the first banks (40), and both ends can be smoothly arranged on the electrodes (21, 22).

[0090] Additionally, the first pattern (70) has a predetermined thickness, so that when an electric field is generated for aligning the light-emitting elements (30) described later, the electric field strength is weak above the first pattern (70), allowing the light-emitting elements (30) to be guided and aligned between the first banks (40) where the electric field strength is relatively strong. Accordingly, the light-emitting elements (30) can be placed between the first banks (40), and both ends can be smoothly placed on the electrodes (21, 22). A detailed description of the first pattern (70) will be provided later with further reference to other drawings.

[0091] The second bank (45) may be placed on the first insulating layer (51). The second bank (45) may be arranged in a grid pattern across the entire front of the display area (DPA), including portions extending in the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2) in a planar manner. The second bank (45) may be placed across the boundaries of each subpixel (PXn) to distinguish neighboring subpixels (PXn).

[0092] Additionally, the second bank (45) is positioned to surround the light-emitting region (EMA) and the cut-off region (CBA) placed for each subpixel (PXn), so as to distinguish them. The first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22) can be extended in the second direction (DR2) and positioned across the portion of the second bank (45) that extends in the first direction (DR1). The portion of the second bank (45) that extends in the second direction (DR2) may have a greater width than the portion positioned between the light-emitting regions (EMA) and the portion positioned between the cut-off regions (CBA). Accordingly, the spacing between the cut-off regions (CBA) may be smaller than the spacing between the light-emitting regions (EMA).

[0093] According to one embodiment, the second bank (45) may be formed to have a greater height than the first bank (40). The second bank (45) may perform the function of preventing ink from overflowing into adjacent subpixels (PXn) during the inkjet printing process of the manufacturing process of the display device (10). The second bank (45) may separate the ink in which different light-emitting elements (30) are dispersed for each different subpixel (PXn) so that they do not mix with each other. The second bank (45) may include polyimide (PI) as in the first bank (40), but is not limited thereto.

[0094] A light-emitting element (30) may be disposed on a first insulating layer (51). A plurality of light-emitting elements (30) may be spaced apart from each other along a second direction (DR2) in which each electrode (21, 22) is extended and may be aligned substantially parallel to each other. The spacing between the light-emitting elements (30) is not particularly limited. Additionally, the light-emitting element (30) may have a shape that extends in one direction, and the direction in which each electrode (21, 22) is extended and the direction in which the light-emitting element (30) is extended may be substantially perpendicular. However, this is not limited thereto, and the light-emitting element (30) may be disposed obliquely rather than perpendicular to the direction in which each electrode (21, 22) is extended.

[0095] A light-emitting element (30) may include a light-emitting layer (36) containing different materials and emit light of different wavelengths to the outside. A display device (10) may include light-emitting elements (30) that emit light of different wavelengths. Accordingly, light of the first color, the second color, and the third color may be emitted from the first subpixel (PX1), the second subpixel (PX2), and the third subpixel (PX3), respectively. However, it is not limited thereto. In some cases, each subpixel (PXn) may include the same type of light-emitting element (30) and emit light of substantially the same color.

[0096] The light-emitting element (30) may have both ends placed on each electrode (21, 22) between the first banks (40). For example, the light-emitting element (30) may be placed such that one end is placed on the first electrode (21) and the other end is placed on the second electrode (22). The extended length of the light-emitting element (30) is longer than the distance between the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22), and both ends of the light-emitting element (30) may be placed on the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22), respectively.

[0097] Additionally, in an exemplary embodiment, light-emitting elements (30) may be placed between adjacent first patterns (70). For example, a light-emitting element (30) may be placed in an area where the first pattern (70) is not placed. However, it is not limited thereto, and some light-emitting elements (30) may be in contact with or placed on the first pattern (70). The first insulating layer (51) may be placed between the first banks (40) and between the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22), and the first patterns (70) may be placed on the first insulating layer (51). The light-emitting elements (30) placed on the first insulating layer (51) may be placed on the first insulating layer (51) with a lower height between the first patterns (70). In an exemplary embodiment, one light-emitting element (30) may be aligned and placed between the first patterns (70). The length direction of the aligned light-emitting element (30) is arranged in the first direction (DR1) and can be parallel to the extension direction of the first pattern (70).

[0098] The light-emitting element (30) of the display device (10) is arranged such that one extended direction is parallel to the first flattening layer (19), and a plurality of semiconductor layers included in the light-emitting element (30) may be arranged sequentially along a direction parallel to the upper surface of the first flattening layer (19). However, it is not limited thereto. In some cases, if the light-emitting element (30) has a different structure, the plurality of layers may be arranged in a direction perpendicular to the first flattening layer (19).

[0099] Both ends of the light-emitting element (30) may each come into contact with contact electrodes (26, 27). According to one embodiment, since the insulating film (38) is not formed on the extended one-way end surface of the light-emitting element (30) and a portion of the semiconductor layer or electrode layer is exposed, the exposed semiconductor layer may come into contact with the contact electrodes (26, 27). However, this is not limited thereto. In some cases, at least a portion of the insulating film (38) of the light-emitting element (30) may be removed, and the insulating film (38) may be removed so that the sides of both ends of the semiconductor layers are partially exposed. The sides of the exposed semiconductor layer may come into direct contact with the contact electrodes (26, 27).

[0100] The second insulating layer (52) may be partially disposed on the light-emitting element (30). For example, the second insulating layer (52) is disposed to partially cover the outer surface of the light-emitting element (30) so as not to cover one end and the other end of the light-emitting element (30). The contact electrodes (26, 27) described later may come into contact with both ends of the light-emitting element (30) that are not covered by the second insulating layer (52). The portion of the second insulating layer (52) disposed on the light-emitting element (30) may be disposed to extend in a second direction (DR2) on the planar first insulating layer (51) to form a linear or island pattern within each subpixel (PXn). The second insulating layer (52) can protect the light-emitting element (30) and, at the same time, fix the light-emitting element (30) during the manufacturing process of the display device (10).

[0101] A plurality of contact electrodes (26, 27) and a third insulating layer (53) may be disposed on the second insulating layer (52).

[0102] A plurality of contact electrodes (26, 27) may have a shape that extends in one direction. The first contact electrode (26) and the second contact electrode (27) of the contact electrodes (26, 27) may each be placed on a part of the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22). The first contact electrode (26) is placed on the first electrode (21), and the second contact electrode (27) is placed on the second electrode (22), and the first contact electrode (26) and the second contact electrode (27) may each have a shape that extends in the second direction (DR2). The first contact electrode (26) and the second contact electrode (27) may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction (DR1), and they may form a stripe-shaped pattern within the light-emitting region (EMA) of each subpixel (PXn). The first electrode (26) and the second electrode (27) are positioned to cover the first pattern (70) and can be positioned along the step formed by the first pattern (70) positioned below the first bank (40) in which the light-emitting elements (30) are positioned.

[0103] In some embodiments, the width of the first contact electrode (26) and the second contact electrode (27) measured in one direction may be equal to or smaller than the width of the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22) measured in one direction, respectively. The first contact electrode (26) and the second contact electrode (27) may be positioned to cover a portion of the upper surface of the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22) while simultaneously contacting one end and the other end of the light-emitting element (30), respectively.

[0104] A plurality of contact electrodes (26, 27) can each contact the light-emitting element (30) and electrodes (21, 22). A semiconductor layer is exposed on both end surfaces of the light-emitting element (30) in an extended direction, and the first contact electrode (26) and the second contact electrode (27) can contact the light-emitting element (30) on the end surface where the semiconductor layer is exposed. One end of the light-emitting element (30) can be electrically connected to the first electrode (21) through the first contact electrode (26), and the other end can be electrically connected to the second electrode (22) through the second contact electrode (27).

[0105] In the drawing, a first contact electrode (26) and a second contact electrode (27) are shown disposed in one subpixel (PXn), but are not limited thereto. The number of first contact electrodes (26) and second contact electrodes (27) may vary depending on the number of first electrodes (21) and second electrodes (22) disposed in each subpixel (PXn).

[0106] A third insulating layer (53) is disposed on the first contact electrode (26). The third insulating layer (53) can electrically insulate the first contact electrode (26) and the second contact electrode (27) from each other. The third insulating layer (53) is disposed to cover the first contact electrode (26), but may not be disposed on the other end of the light-emitting element (30) so that the light-emitting element (30) can contact the second contact electrode (27). The third insulating layer (53) may partially contact the first contact electrode (26) and the second insulating layer (52) on the upper surface of the second insulating layer (52). The side of the third insulating layer (53) in the direction in which the second electrode (22) is disposed may be aligned with one side of the second insulating layer (52). Additionally, the third insulating layer (53) may also be disposed on a non-luminous region, such as on the first insulating layer (51) disposed on the first flattening layer (19). However, it is not limited thereto.

[0107] The second contact electrode (27) is disposed on the second electrode (22), the second insulating layer (52), and the third insulating layer (53). The second contact electrode (27) can come into contact with the other end of the light-emitting element (30) and the exposed upper surface of the second electrode (22). The other end of the light-emitting element (30) can be electrically connected to the second electrode (22) through the second contact electrode (27).

[0108] The second contact electrode (27) may partially contact the second insulating layer (52), the third insulating layer (53), the second electrode (22), and the light-emitting element (30). The first contact electrode (26) and the second contact electrode (27) may be kept out of contact with each other by the second insulating layer (52) and the third insulating layer (53). However, this is not limited thereto, and in some cases, the third insulating layer (53) may be omitted.

[0109] The contact electrodes (26, 27) may include a conductive material. For example, they may include ITO, IZO, ITZO, aluminum (Al), etc. As an example, the contact electrodes (26, 27) may include a transparent conductive material, and light emitted from the light-emitting element (30) may pass through the contact electrodes (26, 27) and proceed toward the electrodes (21, 22). However, they are not limited thereto.

[0110] The fourth insulating layer (54) can be placed entirely on the first substrate (11). The fourth insulating layer (54) can function to protect the external environment of the members placed on the first substrate (11).

[0111] Each of the above-described first insulating layer (51), second insulating layer (52), third insulating layer (53), and fourth insulating layer (54) may include an inorganic insulating material or an organic insulating material. In an exemplary embodiment, the first insulating layer (51), second insulating layer (52), third insulating layer (53), and fourth insulating layer (54) may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxynitride (SiOxNy), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), aluminum nitride (AlN), etc. Alternatively, these may include, as organic insulating materials, acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin, polyimide resin, unsaturated polyester resin, polyphenylene resin, polyphenylene sulfide resin, benzocyclobutene, cardo resin, siloxane resin, silsesquioxane resin, polymethyl methacrylate, polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate-polycarbonate synthetic resin, etc. However, they are not limited thereto.

[0112] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 7, a first pattern (70) according to one embodiment is spaced apart from each other in a second direction (DR2) between the second banks (45). During the manufacturing process of the display device (10), after forming the first insulating layer (51) and the second bank (45), a process of spraying ink containing a light-emitting element (30) onto each subpixel (PXn) is performed. The light-emitting element (30) is sprayed onto the electrodes (21, 22) in a state dispersed in the ink, and is positioned so that both ends are placed on each electrode (21, 22) while changing its position and orientation direction by an electric field formed on the electrodes (21, 22).

[0113] The light-emitting elements (30) dispersed in the ink may be randomly positioned within the light-emitting region (EMA) surrounded by the second bank (45), or may be placed in an area other than between the first banks (40). The light-emitting elements (30) placed in an area other than between the first banks (40) may be light-emitting elements (30) that are lost during the manufacturing process, with both ends not electrically connected to the electrodes (21, 22). If the loss rate of the light-emitting elements (30) is high, it may be necessary to spray a large amount of ink to maintain the number of light-emitting elements (30) required for each subpixel (PXn), which may result in a low process yield.

[0114] The first bank (40) has a shape in which the upper surface protrudes relative to the first flattening layer (19), thereby allowing the light-emitting region (EMA) to be separated by position and inducing a large number of light-emitting elements (30) to be located in the space formed by the first banks (40). Similarly, the first patterns (70) are formed to protrude from the upper surface of the first insulating layer (51) so as to separate the second banks (45) by position. The portion where the first patterns (70) are placed can be placed at a high position, and the light-emitting elements (30) dispersed in the ink can be induced to move toward the space separated from the first patterns (70) when their positions change due to an electric field. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the first pattern (70) is positioned higher than the first insulating layer (51) with respect to the upper surface of the first insulating layer (51), and the area where the first pattern (70) is not positioned, that is, the area between the first patterns (70), may be lower in height than the area where the first pattern (70) is positioned. The light-emitting elements (30) dispersed in the ink may be induced to be placed mostly on the first insulating layer (51) at a lower position. In particular, when the light-emitting elements (30) are placed on the first pattern (70), the light-emitting elements (30) may be moved and aligned on the first pattern (70) to the area between the first patterns (70) because the electric field strength generated in the area between the first patterns (70) is greater.

[0115] A first pattern (70) according to one embodiment can induce light-emitting elements (30) to be placed at specific locations in the light-emitting region (EMA) of each subpixel (PXn) similar to the first banks (40), and a large number of light-emitting elements (30) can be placed between the first banks (40). Accordingly, the number of light-emitting elements (30) lost during the manufacturing process of the display device (10) can be reduced, and the light-emitting elements (30) between the first banks (40) can be aligned so that both ends are placed on the electrodes (21, 22), thereby preventing contact failure between the contact electrodes (26, 27) and the light-emitting elements (30).

[0116] The first pattern (70) may have a thickness sufficient to induce the light-emitting elements (30) to be placed between them by a height step. According to one embodiment, the height (H1) of the first pattern (70) may be greater than the diameter (D1) of the light-emitting element (30). As the height (H1) of the first pattern (70) becomes greater than the diameter (D1) of the light-emitting element (30), the strength of the electric field generated on the upper part of the first pattern (70) may be greater than the strength of the first insulating layer (51) on which the light-emitting elements (30) are placed between the first pattern (70). Accordingly, the light-emitting elements (30) may be moved toward the side with a greater electric field strength and aligned between the electrodes (21, 22). In one embodiment, the height (H1) of the first pattern (70) may be greater than the diameter (D1) of the light-emitting element (30), for example, greater than 0.5 μm. Additionally, the height (H1) of the first pattern (70) may be smaller than the height of the second bank (45). Light-emitting ink can be sprayed onto the first patterns (70) and spread evenly within the area partitioned by the second bank (45). By making the height (H1) of the first patterns (70) smaller than that of the second bank (45), the light-emitting ink can be spread evenly.

[0117] Additionally, the pitch (P1) of the first patterns (70) may be larger than the spacing (P2) of the first patterns (70). The pitch (P1) of the first patterns (70) may be larger than the spacing (P2) of the first patterns (70) as a distance including the spacing (P2) of the first patterns (70). The pitch (P1) of the first patterns (70) may be 5 μm or less. The light-emitting elements (30) may be aligned and spaced apart by a certain distance due to a repulsive force acting between them. The distance at which the light-emitting elements (30) are spaced apart from each other due to the repulsive force may be approximately 5 μm. If the pitch (P1) of the first patterns (70) exceeds 5 μm, a plurality of light-emitting elements (30) may be placed between the first patterns (70) to prevent the light-emitting elements (30) from sticking together and short-circuiting. In an exemplary embodiment, the spacing (P2) of the first patterns (70) may be greater than 0.5 μm and less than 4 μm.

[0118] Additionally, in an exemplary embodiment, the width (W1) of the first pattern (70) may be larger than the diameter (D1) of the light-emitting element (30) and smaller than the pitch (P1) of the first patterns (70). The width (W1) of the first pattern (70) may be adjusted within the pitch (P1) of the first patterns (70). The pitch (P1) of the first patterns (70) may be designed within the aforementioned range so that one light-emitting element (30) can be aligned between the first patterns (70). The pitch (P1) of the first patterns (70) may include the spacing (P2) of the first patterns (70) and the width (W1) of the first pattern (70). Accordingly, if the width (W1) of the first pattern (70) increases, the spacing (P2) of the first patterns (70) may decrease, and if the width (W1) of the first pattern (70) decreases, the spacing (P2) of the first patterns (70) may increase. In one embodiment, since the pitch (P1) of the first patterns (70) is less than 5 μm and the spacing (P2) of the first patterns (70) is greater than 0.5 μm and less than 4 μm, the width (W1) of the first pattern (70) may be greater than 1 μm and less than 4.5 μm. If the width (W1) of the first pattern (70) is greater than 1 μm, the light-emitting element (30) can be rotated and aligned within the gap (P2) of the first pattern (70), and if the width (W1) of the first pattern (70) is less than 4.5 μm, the light-emitting element (30) can be well seated within the gap (P2) of the first pattern (70).

[0119] However, the width (W1) and height (H1) of the first pattern (70) are not limited to those described above and may be adjusted as the diameter (D1) and / or length of the light-emitting element (30) changes.

[0120] A display device (10) according to one embodiment may include a plurality of first patterns (70) arranged in one direction between second banks (45). The display device (10) can induce most of the light-emitting elements (30) to be aligned at specific positions during the manufacturing process and can minimize the number of light-emitting elements (30) lost in each subpixel (PXn).

[0121] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a light-emitting element according to one embodiment.

[0122] The light-emitting element (30) may be a light-emitting diode, and specifically, the light-emitting element (30) may be an inorganic light-emitting diode made of inorganic material having a size in the micrometer or nanometer range. The inorganic light-emitting diode may be aligned between two electrodes in which polarity is formed when an electric field is formed in a specific direction between two electrodes facing each other. The light-emitting element (30) may be aligned between the electrodes by an electric field formed on the two electrodes.

[0123] A light-emitting element (30) according to one embodiment may have a shape that extends in one direction. The light-emitting element (30) may have a shape such as a rod, wire, or tube. In an exemplary embodiment, the light-emitting element (30) may be cylindrical or rod-shaped. However, the shape of the light-emitting element (30) is not limited thereto, and the light-emitting element (30) may have various shapes, such as a polygonal prism shape like a cube, a rectangular prism, or a hexagonal prism, or a shape that extends in one direction but has a partially inclined outer surface. A plurality of semiconductors included in the light-emitting element (30) described below may have a structure in which they are sequentially arranged or stacked along the one direction.

[0124] The light-emitting element (30) may include a semiconductor layer doped with any type of conductivity (e.g., p-type or n-type) impurity. The semiconductor layer can emit light of a specific wavelength range when an electrical signal applied from an external power source is transmitted.

[0125] Referring to FIG. 8, the light-emitting element (30) may include a first semiconductor layer (31), a second semiconductor layer (32), a light-emitting layer (36), an electrode layer (37), and an insulating film (38).

[0126] The first semiconductor layer (31) may be an n-type semiconductor. For example, when the light-emitting element (30) emits light in the blue wavelength range, the first semiconductor layer (31) may include a semiconductor material having the chemical formula AlxGayIn1-x-yN (0≤x≤1, 0≤y≤1, 0≤x+y≤1). For example, it may be one or more of n-type doped AlGaInN, GaN, AlGaN, InGaN, AlN, and InN. The first semiconductor layer (31) may be doped with an n-type dopant, and for example, the n-type dopant may be Si, Ge, Sn, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the first semiconductor layer (31) may be n-GaN doped with n-type Si. The length of the first semiconductor layer (31) may have a range of 1.5 μm to 5 μm, but is not limited thereto.

[0127] The second semiconductor layer (32) is disposed on the light-emitting layer (36) described later. The second semiconductor layer (32) may be a p-type semiconductor, and for example, when the light-emitting element (30) emits light in the blue or green wavelength range, the second semiconductor layer (32) may include a semiconductor material having the chemical formula AlxGayIn1-x-yN (0≤x≤1, 0≤y≤1, 0≤x+y≤1). For example, it may be one or more of p-type doped AlGaInN, GaN, AlGaN, InGaN, AlN, and InN. The second semiconductor layer (32) may be doped with a p-type dopant, and for example, the p-type dopant may be Mg, Zn, Ca, Se, Ba, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the second semiconductor layer (32) may be p-GaN doped with p-type Mg. The length of the second semiconductor layer (32) may be in the range of 0.05㎛ to 0.10㎛, but is not limited thereto.

[0128] Meanwhile, the drawing shows the first semiconductor layer (31) and the second semiconductor layer (32) as being composed of a single layer, but is not limited thereto. According to some embodiments, depending on the material of the light-emitting layer (36), the first semiconductor layer (31) and the second semiconductor layer (32) may further include a greater number of layers, such as a clad layer or a TSBR (Tensile strain barrier reducing) layer.

[0129] The light-emitting layer (36) is disposed between the first semiconductor layer (31) and the second semiconductor layer (32). The light-emitting layer (36) may include a material having a single or multiple quantum well structure. If the light-emitting layer (36) includes a material having a multiple quantum well structure, it may have a structure in which a quantum layer and a well layer are alternately stacked in multiple layers. The light-emitting layer (36) may emit light through the coupling of electron-hole pairs according to an electrical signal applied through the first semiconductor layer (31) and the second semiconductor layer (32). For example, if the light-emitting layer (36) emits light in the blue wavelength range, it may include a material such as AlGaN or AlGaInN. In particular, if the light-emitting layer (36) has a structure in which a quantum layer and a well layer are alternately stacked in a multiple quantum well structure, the quantum layer may include a material such as AlGaN or AlGaInN, and the well layer may include a material such as GaN or AlInN. In an exemplary embodiment, the light-emitting layer (36) may include AlGaInN as a quantum layer and AlInN as a well layer, and as described above, the light-emitting layer (36) may emit blue light having a central wavelength band in the range of 450 nm to 495 nm.

[0130] However, it is not limited thereto, and the light-emitting layer (36) may have a structure in which semiconductor materials with a large band gap energy and semiconductor materials with a small band gap energy are alternately stacked, and may include different Group 3 to Group 5 semiconductor materials depending on the wavelength range of the emitted light. The light emitted by the light-emitting layer (36) is not limited to light in the blue wavelength range, and may emit light in the red or green wavelength range depending on the case. The length of the light-emitting layer (36) may have a range of 0.05㎛ to 0.10㎛, but is not limited thereto.

[0131] Meanwhile, light emitted from the light-emitting layer (36) can be emitted not only to the longitudinal outer surface of the light-emitting element (30) but also to both sides. The directionality of the light emitted from the light-emitting layer (36) is not limited to one direction.

[0132] The electrode layer (37) may be an ohmic contact electrode. However, it is not limited thereto and may be a Schottky contact electrode. The light-emitting element (30) may include at least one electrode layer (37). Although the figure illustrates the light-emitting element (30) including one electrode layer (37), it is not limited thereto. Depending on the case, the light-emitting element (30) may include a larger number of electrode layers (37) or may omit them. The description of the light-emitting element (30) described below can be applied in the same way even if the number of electrode layers (37) changes or other structures are included.

[0133] The electrode layer (37) can reduce the resistance between the light-emitting element (30) and the electrode or contact electrode when the light-emitting element (30) is electrically connected to the electrode or contact electrode in a display device (10) according to one embodiment. The electrode layer (37) may include a conductive metal. For example, the electrode layer (37) may include at least one of aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), indium (In), gold (Au), silver (Ag), ITO (Indium Tin Oxide), IZO (Indium Zinc Oxide), and ITZO (Indium Tin-Zinc Oxide). Additionally, the electrode layer (37) may include an n-type or p-type doped semiconductor material. The electrode layer (37) may include the same material or different materials, but is not limited thereto.

[0134] The insulating film (38) is arranged to surround the outer surface of the plurality of semiconductor layers and electrode layers described above. In an exemplary embodiment, the insulating film (38) is arranged to surround the outer surface of at least the light-emitting layer (36) and may extend in one direction in which the light-emitting element (30) is extended. The insulating film (38) may perform the function of protecting the members. For example, the insulating film (38) may be formed to surround the side portions of the members, but the two ends in the longitudinal direction of the light-emitting element (30) may be formed to be exposed.

[0135] In the drawing, the insulating film (38) is shown extending in the longitudinal direction of the light-emitting element (30) to cover from the first semiconductor layer (31) to the side of the electrode layer (37), but is not limited thereto. The insulating film (38) may cover only the outer surface of a portion of the semiconductor layer, including the light-emitting layer (36), or cover only a portion of the outer surface of the electrode layer (37), so that the outer surface of each electrode layer (37) is partially exposed. Additionally, the insulating film (38) may be formed with a rounded upper surface in cross-section in an area adjacent to at least one end of the light-emitting element (30).

[0136] The thickness of the insulating film (38) may be in the range of 10 nm to 1.0 μm, but is not limited thereto. Preferably, the thickness of the insulating film (38) may be around 40 nm.

[0137] The insulating film (38) may include materials having insulating properties, such as silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxynitride (SiOxNy), aluminum nitride (AlN), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), etc. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent an electrical short circuit that may occur when the light-emitting layer (36) comes into direct contact with an electrode through which an electrical signal is transmitted to the light-emitting element (30). In addition, since the insulating film (38) protects the outer surface of the light-emitting element (30) including the light-emitting layer (36), it is possible to prevent a decrease in light-emitting efficiency.

[0138] Additionally, in some embodiments, the outer surface of the insulating film (38) may be surface-treated. The light-emitting element (30) may be sprayed onto the electrode and aligned in a dispersed state within a predetermined ink. Here, in order for the light-emitting element (30) to remain dispersed without aggregating with other adjacent light-emitting elements (30) within the ink, the surface of the insulating film (38) may be treated to be hydrophobic or hydrophilic.

[0139] The light-emitting element (30) may have a length (h) ranging from 1 μm to 10 μm or from 2 μm to 6 μm, and preferably from 3 μm to 5 μm. Additionally, the diameter of the light-emitting element (30) may range from 30 nm to 700 nm, and the aspect ratio of the light-emitting element (30) may range from 1.2 to 100. However, it is not limited thereto, and a plurality of light-emitting elements (30) included in the display device (10) may have different diameters depending on the difference in the composition of the light-emitting layer (36). Preferably, the diameter of the light-emitting element (30) may range from approximately 500 nm.

[0140] FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view of a display device according to another embodiment.

[0141] FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-section across the first patterns (70) and the light-emitting element (30), in which a light-emitting element (30) is arranged between the first patterns (70) in a manner similar to FIG. 5. Since the embodiment of FIG. 9 is identical to the embodiment of FIG. 5 described above except for the difference in the cross-sectional shape of the first pattern (70), redundant descriptions below will be omitted.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 9, unlike FIG. 5 described above, the first pattern (70) may have a cross-sectional shape that is rectangular or square. When the light-emitting element (30) described later is aligned, an electric field is generated, and the magnitude of the electric field decreases in proportion to the thickness of the first pattern (70) above. If the cross-sectional shape of the first pattern (70) is rectangular or square, the height of the first pattern (70) in the vertical direction can be made uniform at any position. That is, by making the cross-sectional shape of the first pattern (70) rectangular or square, the strength of the electric field generated above the first pattern (70) can be made uniform, thereby allowing the light-emitting element (30) to be seated between the first patterns (70) rather than being seated on the top of the first pattern (70).

[0143] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing one pixel of a display device according to another embodiment. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line Q6-Q6' of FIG. 10. FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of area B of FIG. 11.

[0144] The embodiments of FIGS. 10 to 12 are identical to the embodiments of FIGS. 2 to 7 described above, except that the first pattern (70) is divided into a plurality of sub-patterns; therefore, redundant descriptions below will be omitted.

[0145] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 12, a first pattern (70) according to one embodiment may include a first sub-pattern (72) and a second sub-pattern (74). The first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) may be disposed on a first insulating layer (51). The first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) may have a lower thickness than the second bank (45) and may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (DR2). The first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) may be spaced apart from the second bank (45). The cross-section of the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) may each be formed in a trapezoidal shape. The cross-sectional shape of the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) may generally have a cross-sectional shape with an organic material patterned thereon. However, it is not limited thereto.

[0146] A first pattern (70) including a first sub-pattern (72) and a second sub-pattern (74) according to one embodiment can induce light-emitting elements (30) to be placed at specific locations in the light-emitting region (EMA) of each sub-pixel (PXn) similar to the first banks (40), and a large number of light-emitting elements (30) can be placed between the first banks (40). The first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) may be the first pattern (70) shown in FIGS. 2 to 7 described above divided into two.

[0147] The first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) may have a thickness sufficient to induce the light-emitting elements (30) to be placed between them by a height step. According to one embodiment, the height of each of the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) may be the same as the height of the first pattern (70) shown in FIGS. 2 to 7 described above. However, this is not limited thereto, and the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) may have different heights from each other.

[0148] The height (H2) of each of the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) may be greater than the diameter (D1) of the light-emitting element (30). As the height (H2) of the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) becomes greater than the diameter (D1) of the light-emitting element (30), the strength of the electric field generated on the upper part of the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) may be greater than the strength of the first insulating layer (51) on which the light-emitting element (30) is seated between the first patterns (70). Accordingly, the light-emitting element (30) may be moved toward the side with a greater electric field strength and aligned between the electrodes (21, 22). In one embodiment, the height (H2) of each of the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) may be greater than the diameter (D1) of the light-emitting element (30), for example, greater than 0.5 μm. Additionally, the height (H2) of each of the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) may be smaller than the height of the second bank (45). Light-emitting element ink can be sprayed onto the first patterns (70) including the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) and spread evenly within the area partitioned by the second bank (45). By making the height (H2) of each of the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) smaller than that of the second bank (45), the light-emitting element ink can be spread evenly.

[0149] Additionally, the pitch (P3) of the first patterns (70) including the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) may be larger than the spacing (P4) of the first patterns (70) including the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74). The pitch (P3) of the first patterns (70) including the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) may be 5 μm or less. The light-emitting elements (30) may be aligned and spaced apart by a certain distance due to a repulsive force acting between them. The distance at which the light-emitting elements (30) are spaced apart from each other due to the repulsive force may be approximately 5 μm. If the pitch (P3) of the first patterns (70) exceeds 5 μm, a plurality of light-emitting elements (30) may be placed between the first patterns (70) to prevent the light-emitting elements (30) from sticking together and short-circuiting. In an exemplary embodiment, the spacing (P4) of the first patterns (70), including the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74), may be greater than 0.5 μm and less than 4 μm.

[0150] Additionally, in an exemplary embodiment, the width (W2) of the first pattern (70) including the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) may be the sum of the widths of the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) respectively and the gap (P5) between the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74). The widths of the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) respectively may be smaller than the first pattern (70) including the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) and may be spaced apart from each other. Accordingly, the sum of the widths of the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) respectively may be smaller than the first pattern (70) due to the gap (P5) between the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74). In an exemplary embodiment, the gap (P5) between the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) may be smaller than the diameter (D1) of the light-emitting element (30) and may be less than 0.5 μm.

[0151] The width (W2) of the first pattern (70), including the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74), may be larger than the diameter (D1) of the light-emitting element (30) and smaller than the pitch (P3) of the first patterns (70). In one embodiment, since the pitch (P3) of the first patterns (70), including the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74), is less than 5 μm and the spacing (P4) of the first patterns (70) is greater than 0.5 μm and less than 4 μm, the width (W2) of the first pattern (70) may be greater than 1 μm and less than 4.5 μm. If the width (W2) of the first pattern (70) is greater than 1 μm, the light-emitting element (30) can be rotated and aligned within the gap (P4) of the first pattern (70), and if the width (W2) of the first pattern (70) is less than 4.5 μm, the light-emitting element (30) can be well seated within the gap (P4) of the first pattern (70).

[0152] However, the width (W2) and height (H2) of the first pattern (70) including the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) are not limited to those described above and may be adjusted as the diameter (D1) and / or length of the light-emitting element (30) changes.

[0153] A display device (10) according to one embodiment may include first patterns (70) comprising a first sub-pattern (72) and a second sub-pattern (74) arranged in one direction between second banks (45). Even if the first patterns (70) are divided into the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74), the spacing between the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) is narrow, so that the strength of the electric field generated on the first sub-pattern (72) and the second sub-pattern (74) can be reduced. Accordingly, the display device (10) can induce most of the light-emitting elements (30) to be aligned between the first patterns (70) during the manufacturing process, and the number of light-emitting elements (30) lost in each sub-pixel (PXn) can be minimized.

[0154] In FIGS. 10 to 12, the first patterns (70) are exemplarily divided into two sub-patterns (72, 74), but are not limited thereto. For example, the first patterns (70) may be divided into three or more sub-patterns within a range substantially equal to the width of the undivided first patterns (70) of FIGS. 2 to 7 described above.

[0155] FIG. 13 is a plan view showing one pixel of a display device according to another embodiment. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line Q7-Q7' of FIG. 13. FIG. 15 is a drawing showing the first pattern and light-emitting element of FIG. 13.

[0156] The embodiments of FIGS. 13 to 15 are identical to the embodiments of FIGS. 2 to 7 described above, except that the first pattern (70) is placed between the first banks (40), so redundant descriptions below will be omitted.

[0157] Referring to FIGS. 13 to 15, the display device (10) may include a plurality of first patterns (70) arranged between first banks (40). The plurality of first patterns (70) may be spaced apart in a second direction (DR2) between the first banks (40). Additionally, the width of the first patterns (70) may be smaller than the spacing between the first banks (40) and may be spaced apart from the first banks (40). The first patterns (70) may not overlap with the first banks (40).

[0158] The light-emitting elements (30) are sprayed onto the electrodes (21, 22) described below in a dispersed state in ink and can be positioned on them by an electric field generated on the electrodes (21, 22). The strength of the electric field substantially generated by the first banks (40) may be greatest between the first banks (40). Since the light-emitting elements (30) are induced into the region where the electric field strength is high, in one embodiment, the first patterns (70) can be positioned between the first banks (40) to induce alignment of the light-emitting elements (30).

[0159] The length (L1) of the first patterns (70) in the second direction (DR2) may be greater than the width in the second direction of the second insulating layer (52) placed on the first patterns (70). Additionally, the length (L1) of the first patterns (70) in the second direction (DR2) may be longer than the length (h) of the light-emitting element (30). If the length (L1) of the first patterns (70) in the second direction (DR2) is longer than the length (h) of the light-emitting element (30), the light-emitting elements (30) can be easily aligned in the second direction (DR2) in the area between the first banks (40). That is, it is possible to prevent the light-emitting elements (30) from being aligned obliquely instead of being aligned in the second direction (DR2).

[0160] A display device (10) according to one embodiment may include a plurality of first patterns (70) arranged in one direction between first banks (40). The display device (10) can induce most of the light-emitting elements (30) to be aligned at specific positions during the manufacturing process and can minimize the number of light-emitting elements (30) lost in each subpixel (PXn).

[0161] Hereinafter, the manufacturing process of a display device (10) according to one embodiment will be described with further reference to other drawings. In the following, the manufacturing method will be described using the display device according to one embodiment shown in the aforementioned Figures 2 to 7 as an example.

[0162] FIGS. 16 to 22, FIGS. 25, and FIG. 26 are cross-sectional views illustrating parts of the manufacturing process of a display device according to one embodiment. FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram showing the distribution of electric field strength. FIG. 24 is a graph showing the absolute value of the electric field strength.

[0163] First, referring to FIG. 16, a target substrate (SUB) is prepared. Although not shown in the drawing, the target substrate (SUB) may include circuit elements composed of a plurality of conductive layers and a plurality of insulating layers, including the first substrate (11) described above. For convenience of explanation, the following description will be made by illustrating the target substrate (SUB) that includes these elements.

[0164] Next, a plurality of first banks (40) spaced apart from each other are formed on the target substrate (SUB). The first banks (40) may have a shape protruding from the upper surface of the target substrate (SUB). The description thereof is the same as described above.

[0165] Referring to FIG. 17, a first electrode layer (21') and a second electrode layer (22') are formed on the first bank (40) on the target substrate (SUB). The first electrode layer (21') and the second electrode layer (22') are extended in the second direction (DR2) and are spaced apart from each other in the first direction (DR1). During the manufacturing process of the display device (10), the first electrode layer (21') and the second electrode layer (22') can be extended in the second direction (DR2) and placed on other subpixels (PXn). After placing the light-emitting element (30) in a subsequent process, a disconnection process is performed to separate the first electrode layer (21') and the second electrode layer (22') at the cut-off area (CBA) of each subpixel (PXn) to form the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22), respectively.

[0166] Then, a first insulating layer (51') is formed covering the first electrode layer (21') and the second electrode layer (22'). The first insulating layer (51') is placed over the entire surface of the target substrate (SUB) and can cover the electrode layers (21', 22'). The first insulating layer (51') can be partially removed in a subsequent process to expose the upper surface of the electrode layers (21', 22') and form the first insulating layer (51).

[0167] Next, referring to FIG. 18, a plurality of first patterns (70) are formed. The first patterns (70) may be formed to extend in a first direction (DR1) and be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (DR2). The first patterns (70) may be spaced apart in the second direction (DR2) between the first banks (40) or between the first electrode layer (21') and the second electrode layer (22'). Among the regions between the first banks (40), the region where the first patterns (70) are placed and the region between them where the first patterns (70) are not placed may be distinguished, and said regions may have different heights. The first patterns (70) are formed on the first insulating layer (51') and may cover the first banks (40) and the first and second electrode layers (21', 22').

[0168] Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, a second bank (45) is formed that is disposed on the first insulating layer (51') and surrounds the light-emitting region (EMA) and the cutting region (CBA) of each subpixel (PXn). The second bank (45) is disposed to surround each subpixel (PXn) so as to distinguish them from one another and simultaneously distinguish the light-emitting region (EMA) and the cutting region (CBA). The description thereof is the same as described above.

[0169] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing an area where light-emitting elements (30) are placed between the second banks (45) without the first patterns (70) being placed. FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view showing the first patterns (70) and the light-emitting elements (30).

[0170] Referring to FIG. 21, a plurality of light-emitting elements (30) are arranged between the first banks (40). The light-emitting elements (30) may have both ends placed on the first electrode layer (21') and the second electrode layer (22'), respectively, on the first insulating layer (51'). The light-emitting elements (30) may be sprayed onto a target substrate (SUB) while dispersed within the ink (200). In an exemplary embodiment, the light-emitting elements (30) are prepared while dispersed within the ink (200) and may be sprayed onto the target substrate (SUB) by a printing process using an inkjet printing device. The ink sprayed through the inkjet printing device may settle within an area surrounded by the second bank (45). The second bank (45) can prevent the ink from overflowing into neighboring subpixels (PXn).

[0171] When an ink (200) containing a light-emitting element (30) is sprayed, an electric signal is applied to each electrode layer (21', 22') to place a plurality of light-emitting elements (30) on a first insulating layer (51'). When an electric signal is applied to the plurality of electrode layers (21', 22'), an electric field can be generated on the electrode layers (21', 22'). The light-emitting elements (30) dispersed within the ink (200) can receive a dielectrophoretic force from the electric field, and the light-emitting elements (30) that receive the dielectrophoretic force can be settled on the first insulating layer (51') while changing their orientation direction and position.

[0172] Referring to FIG. 22, light-emitting elements (30) may be placed in the area between them where the first pattern (70) is not placed. The first pattern (70) may induce the light-emitting elements (30) to move to a position where both ends can be placed on the electrode layers (21', 22'), and most of the light-emitting elements (30) may be placed at a lower position by the step formed by the first pattern (70).

[0173] FIG. 23 shows the electric field distribution generated in the structure illustrated in FIG. 22, and FIG. 24 shows the absolute value of the electric field strength generated in the structure illustrated in FIG. 22. FIG. 23 and FIG. 24 can correspond directly to the structure of FIG. 22.

[0174] Referring to FIGS. 23 and 24, when an electric field is generated after the ink (200) containing the light-emitting element (30) is sprayed, the electric field strength in the area where the first patterns (70) are placed is weak, and the electric field strength in the area between the first patterns (70) is strong. As a result, the light-emitting elements (30) can be guided and aligned into the area between the first patterns (70) where the electric field strength is strong. When an electric field is generated, the light-emitting element (30) placed on the first pattern (70) moves to the area between the first patterns (70) where the electric field is relatively strong. Therefore, the light-emitting element (30) may not be placed on the first pattern (70).

[0175] Referring to FIG. 25, after the light-emitting element (30) is aligned, a first insulating layer (51) is formed by partially removing the first insulating layer (51') so that the upper surfaces of the first electrode layer (21') and the second electrode layer (22') are exposed. The first insulating layer (51) may include an opening (OP) that exposes a portion of each electrode layer (21', 22'). The upper surfaces of the electrode layers (21', 22') exposed through the opening (OP) may come into contact with the contact electrodes (26, 27) described later.

[0176] Next, referring to FIG. 26, a process of disconnecting the portion of the first electrode layer (21') and the second electrode layer (22') located in the cut portion region ('CBA' in FIG. 19) is performed to form the first electrode (21) and the second electrode (22), and the second insulating layer (52), the third insulating layer (53), and the contact electrodes (26, 27) placed on the light-emitting element (30) are formed. An electrical signal for aligning the light-emitting element (30) can be applied through the electrode layers (21', 22') connected to a plurality of sub-pixels (PXn). However, for driving the display device (10), each electrode layer (21', 22') is separated from each other in the cut portion region (CBA) to form the electrodes (21, 22), and each electrode (21, 22) can be driven individually through a first transistor placed in each sub-pixel (PXn).

[0177] Next, a fourth insulating layer (54) covering the members placed on the target substrate (SUB) can be formed to manufacture a display device (10).

[0178] FIG. 27 is a plan view showing one subpixel of a display device according to another embodiment. FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view cut along the line Q8-Q8' of FIG. 27.

[0179] Referring to FIGS. 27 and 28, the display device (10) may include a plurality of first electrodes (21_10) and second electrodes (22_10) for each subpixel (PXn). The first electrodes (21_10), for example, two first electrodes (21_10), may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the center of the subpixel (PXn). The second electrodes (22_10) may have the same shape as the embodiment of FIG. 2 and may be arranged in a plurality, for example, two, between the first electrodes (21_10). The spacing between the first electrode (21_10) and the second electrode (22_10) may vary depending on the portion of the first electrode (21_10). For example, the gap (DE1) between the extension portion (RE-E) and the second electrode (22_10) may be smaller than the gap (DE2, DE3) between the connection portion (RE-C1, RE-C2) and the bend portion (RE-B1, RE-B2) and the second electrode (22_10). The gap (DE2) between the connection portion (RE-C1, RE-C2) and the second electrode (22_10) may be larger than the gap (DE3) between the bend portion (RE-B1, RE-B2) and the second electrode (22_10). However, it is not limited thereto. Since the shape of each electrode (21_10, 22_10) is the same as described above with reference to FIG. 2, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0180] Meanwhile, depending on the arrangement of the first electrodes (21_10) and the second electrodes (22_10), the arrangement and shape of the first bank (40; 41_10, 42_10), the first insulating layer (51_10), and the contact electrodes (26_10, 27_10, 28_10) arranged in each subpixel (PXn) may vary.

[0181] The first insulating layer (51_10) is positioned between the extension (RE-E) of the first electrode (21_10) and the second electrode (22_10), and both sides may be in contact with each of them. One end of the light-emitting element (30) may be positioned on the extension (RE-E) of the first electrode (21_10), and the other end may be positioned on the second electrode (22_10).

[0182] The first bank (40) may include a first sub-bank (41_10) and a second sub-bank (42_10) having different widths. The first sub-bank (41_10) and the second sub-bank (42_10) may each extend in a second direction (DR2), but may have different widths measured in the first direction (DR1). As the first sub-bank (41_10) has a greater width than the second sub-bank (42_10), it may be placed across the boundary of adjacent sub-pixels (PXn) in the first direction (DR1). For example, the first sub-bank (41_10) may also be placed at the boundary between them, including the light-emitting region (EMA) of each sub-pixel (PXn). Accordingly, some of the portion of the second bank (45_10) extended in the second direction (DR2) may be placed on the first sub-bank (41_10). Two first sub-banks (41_10) may be partially disposed in one sub-pixel (PXn). One second sub-bank (42_10) may be disposed between the first sub-banks (41_10).

[0183] The second sub-bank (42_10) may extend in a second direction (DR2) from the center of the light-emitting region (EMA) of the sub-pixel (PXn). The second sub-bank (42_10) may have a smaller width than the first sub-bank (41_10) and may be spaced apart from them.

[0184] Extensions (RE-E) of the first electrode (21_10) and the second bank (45_4) may be arranged on the first sub-banks (41_10). Extensions (RE-E) of the first electrode (21_10) of the sub-pixel (PXn) adjacent in the first direction (DR1) may be arranged on the first sub-bank (41_10). That is, two extensions (RE-E) of the first electrode (21_10) are arranged on one first sub-bank (41_10). Two second electrodes (22_10) may be arranged on the second sub-bank (42_10). The second electrodes (22_10) are arranged on both sides extending in the second direction (DR2) of the second sub-bank (42_10) and may be spaced apart from each other on the second sub-bank (42_10).

[0185] One of the first electrodes (21_10) may have a first contact hole (CT1) formed by including a contact portion (RE-P), while the other first electrode (21_10) may not have a contact portion (RE-P). Similarly, one of the second electrodes (22_10) may have a contact portion (RE-P) formed to form a second contact hole (CT2), while the other second electrode (22_10) may not have a contact portion (RE-P). The electrodes (21_10, 22_10) connected to the first transistor (TR1) or the second voltage wiring (VL2) through the contact holes (CT1, CT2) receive electrical signals from them, and the other electrodes (21_10, 22_10) receive electrical signals through the contact electrodes (26_10, 27_10, 28_10) described later.

[0186] The light-emitting elements (30) have both ends disposed on the first insulating layer (51_10) on the extension (RE-E) of the first electrode (21_10) and on the second electrode (22_10). One end of the light-emitting elements (30) on which the second semiconductor layer ('32' in FIG. 8) is disposed may be disposed on the first electrode (21_10). Accordingly, the light-emitting elements (30) between the electrodes (21_10, 22_10) disposed to the left of the center of the subpixel (PXn) and the light-emitting elements (30) between the electrodes (21_10, 22_10) disposed to the right may have their ends facing in opposite directions.

[0187] As the display device (10) includes a larger number of electrodes (21_10, 22_10), it may include a larger number of contact electrodes (26_10, 27_10, 28_10).

[0188] In an exemplary embodiment, the contact electrodes (26_10, 27_10, 28_10) may include a first contact electrode (26_10) disposed on one first electrode (21_10), a second contact electrode (27_10) disposed on one second electrode (22_10), and a third contact electrode (28_10) disposed on the other first electrode (21_10) and the second electrode (22_10) and surrounding the second contact electrode (27_10).

[0189] A first contact electrode (26_10) is placed on one of the first electrodes (21_10). For example, the first contact electrode (26_10) is placed on an extension (RE-E) of the first electrode (21_10) on which one end of the light-emitting element (30) is placed. The first contact electrode (26_10) can contact the extension (RE-E) of the first electrode (21_10) and one end of the light-emitting element (30), respectively. A second contact electrode (27_10) is placed on one of the second electrodes (22_10). For example, the second contact electrode (27_10) is placed on a second electrode (22_10) on which the other end of the light-emitting element (30) is placed. The second contact electrode (27_10) can contact the second electrode (22_10) and the other end of the light-emitting element (30), respectively.

[0190] The first contact electrode (26_10) and the second contact electrode (27_10) can each contact the electrodes (21_10, 22_10) in which the first contact hole (CT1) and the second contact hole (CT2) are formed. The first contact electrode (26_10) can contact the first electrode (21_10) which is electrically connected to the first transistor (TR1) through the first contact hole (CT1), and the second contact electrode (27_10) can contact the second electrode (22_10) which is electrically connected to the second voltage wiring (VL2) through the second contact hole (CT2). The first contact electrode (26_10) and the second contact electrode (27_10) can transmit an electrical signal applied from the first transistor (TR1) or the second voltage wiring (VL2) to the light-emitting elements (30). The first contact electrode (26_10) and the second contact electrode (27_10) are substantially the same as described above.

[0191] In each subpixel (PXn), electrodes (21_10, 22_10) are further disposed without contact holes (CT1, CT2). These may be in a floating state where an electrical signal is not applied directly from the first transistor (TR1) or the second voltage line (VL2). However, a third contact electrode (28_10) is disposed on the electrodes (21_10, 22_10) without contact holes (CT1, CT2), and an electrical signal transmitted to the light-emitting element (30) may flow through the third contact electrode (28_10).

[0192] The third contact electrode (28_10) is positioned on the first electrode (21_10) and the second electrode (22_10) where contact holes (CT1, CT2) are not formed, and may be positioned to surround the second contact electrode (27_10). The third contact electrode (28_10) may surround the second contact electrode (27_10) by including portions extending in the second direction (DR2) and portions extending in the first direction (DR1) that connect these portions. The portions of the third contact electrode (28_10) extending in the second direction (DR2) are each positioned on the first electrode (21_10) and the second electrode (22_10) where contact holes (CT1, CT2) are not formed, and may come into contact with the light-emitting element (30). For example, the portion of the third contact electrode (28_10) placed on the second electrode (22_10) may contact the other end of the light-emitting element (30) on the left, and the portion placed on the first electrode (21_10) may contact one end of the light-emitting element (30) on the right. The portion of the third contact electrode (28_10) extended in the first direction (DR1) may overlap with the second electrode (22_10) in which the second contact hole (CT2) is formed, but a different insulating layer (not shown) may be placed between them so that they are not directly connected to each other.

[0193] The electrical signal transmitted from the first contact electrode (26_10) to one end of the first type light-emitting element (30-1) is transmitted to the third contact electrode (28_10) which contacts the other end of the left light-emitting element (30). The third contact electrode (28_10) transmits the electrical signal to one end of the right light-emitting element (30), which can be transmitted to the second electrode (22_10) through the second contact electrode (27_10). Accordingly, the electrical signal for the light-emitting element (30) is transmitted only to one first electrode (21_10) and one second electrode (22_10), and the left light-emitting element (30) and the right light-emitting element (30) can be connected in series through the third contact electrode (28_10).

[0194] In one embodiment, the first patterns (70_10) may be arranged so as to extend in a first direction (DR1) on the first insulating layer (51_10) but spaced apart from each other in a second direction (DR2). A light-emitting element (30) may be arranged and aligned one by one between the first patterns (70_10). Accordingly, the display device (10) may be provided with the first patterns (70_10) to induce most of the light-emitting elements (30) to be aligned at specific locations during the manufacturing process, and the number of light-emitting elements (30) lost in each subpixel (PXn) may be minimized.

[0195] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the attached drawings, those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention may be implemented in other specific forms without changing the technical concept or essential features thereof. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. Explanation of the symbols

[0196] 10: Display device 21: First electrode 22: Second electrode 26: First contact electrode 27: Second contact electrode 30: Light-emitting element 40: 1st Bank 45: 2nd Bank 51: First insulating layer 52: Second insulating layer 53: Third insulating layer 54: Fourth insulating layer 70: Pattern 1 72: Sub Pattern 1 74: Second sub-pattern

Claims

Claim 1 A plurality of first banks extending in a first direction on a first substrate and spaced apart from each other; a first electrode and a second electrode extending in the first direction and spaced apart from each other on different first banks; a first insulating layer covering the first electrode, the second electrode and the plurality of first banks; a plurality of first patterns extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction on the first insulating layer and spaced apart from each other; A display device comprising a plurality of light-emitting elements disposed between adjacent first patterns among the plurality of first patterns, wherein both ends thereof are disposed on the first electrode and the second electrode, respectively, on the first insulating layer, wherein the height of the first pattern is greater than the diameter of the light-emitting element, and the first pattern includes a first sub-pattern and a second sub-pattern that extend in the second direction and are spaced apart in the first direction, wherein the plurality of first patterns overlap with the plurality of first banks, the first electrode and the second electrode, and intersect perpendicularly with the plurality of first banks, the first electrode and the second electrode. Claim 2 delete Claim 3 A display device according to claim 1, wherein a light-emitting element is disposed between two first patterns, and the longitudinal direction of the light-emitting element is parallel to the extension direction of the first patterns. Claim 4 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the pitch of the first patterns is greater than the spacing of the first patterns. Claim 5 In claim 4, a display device in which the spacing of the first patterns is greater than 0.5 μm and less than 4 μm. Claim 6 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the width of the first pattern is greater than 1 μm and less than 4.5 μm. Claim 7 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the cross-section of the first pattern is any one of a trapezoid, a square, or a rectangle. Claim 8 A display device according to claim 1, further comprising the plurality of light-emitting elements, the first electrode, the second electrode, and a second bank surrounding the plurality of first banks and defining a light-emitting region. Claim 9 In claim 8, the plurality of first patterns are a display device that does not overlap with the second bank. Claim 10 A display device according to claim 8, wherein the height of the first pattern is greater than 0.5 μm and smaller than the height of the second bank. Claim 11 delete Claim 12 In claim 1, the spacing between the first sub-pattern and the second sub-pattern is smaller than the diameter of the light-emitting element in the display device. Claim 13 delete Claim 14 A display device according to claim 1, further comprising a first contact electrode disposed on the first electrode and in contact with one end of the light-emitting element, and a second contact electrode disposed on the second electrode and in contact with the other end of the light-emitting element. Claim 15 A plurality of first banks extending in a first direction on a first substrate and spaced apart from each other; a first electrode and a second electrode extending in the first direction and spaced apart from each other on different first banks; a first insulating layer covering the first electrode, the second electrode and the plurality of first banks; a plurality of first patterns extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction on the first insulating layer and spaced apart from each other; A display device comprising a plurality of light-emitting elements disposed between adjacent first patterns among the plurality of first patterns, wherein both ends thereof are disposed on the first electrode and the second electrode, respectively, on the first insulating layer, wherein the width of the first pattern is greater than the diameter of the light-emitting element and smaller than the pitch of the first patterns, and the first pattern includes a first sub-pattern and a second sub-pattern that extend in the second direction and are spaced apart in the first direction, wherein the plurality of first patterns overlap with the plurality of first banks, the first electrode and the second electrode, and intersect perpendicularly with the plurality of first banks, the first electrode and the second electrode. Claim 16 In claim 15, a display device in which the width of the first pattern is greater than 1 μm and less than 4.5 μm. Claim 17 In claim 15, a display device in which the pitch of the first patterns is greater than the spacing of the first patterns and less than 5 μm. Claim 18 A display device according to claim 15, further comprising a plurality of light-emitting elements, a first electrode, a second electrode, and a second bank surrounding the plurality of first banks and defining a light-emitting region, wherein the plurality of first patterns do not overlap with the second bank. Claim 19 delete Claim 20 delete

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