Display device and electronic device

Abstract

A display device according to one embodiment comprises: a substrate including a display area including light-emitting regions and a non-display area adjacent to the display area; light-emitting elements disposed on the light-emitting regions on the substrate; a plurality of color filters disposed on the light-emitting elements and positioned corresponding to each of the light-emitting regions; a first light-blocking pattern located on the display area on the plurality of color filters and surrounding at least one light-emitting region among the light-emitting regions; and a plurality of second light-blocking patterns located on the non-display area on the plurality of color filters and spaced apart from the first light-blocking pattern, wherein the first light-blocking pattern comprises a first pattern disposed on the plurality of color filters and a second pattern disposed on the first pattern and overlapping with the first pattern, and each of the plurality of second light-blocking patterns comprises a third pattern disposed on the same layer as the first pattern and a fourth pattern disposed on the same layer as the second pattern and overlapping with the third pattern.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to display devices and electronic devices. Background Technology

[0002] As the information society develops, various types of display devices and electronic devices are being developed. Display devices can be provided independently or included in electronic devices that provide display screens to implement the display screens of electronic devices. The problem to be solved

[0003] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a display device and an electronic device capable of varying the viewing angle according to the display mode and suppressing or reducing light leakage.

[0004] The problems of the present invention are not limited to the technical problems 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

[0005] A display device according to one embodiment comprises: a substrate including a display area including light-emitting regions and a non-display area adjacent to the display area; light-emitting elements disposed on the light-emitting regions on the substrate; a plurality of color filters disposed on the light-emitting elements and positioned corresponding to each of the light-emitting regions; a first light-blocking pattern located on the display area on the plurality of color filters and surrounding at least one light-emitting region among the light-emitting regions; and a plurality of second light-blocking patterns located on the non-display area on the plurality of color filters and spaced apart from the first light-blocking pattern, wherein the first light-blocking pattern includes a first pattern disposed on the plurality of color filters and a second pattern disposed on the first pattern and overlapping with the first pattern, and each of the plurality of second light-blocking patterns may include a third pattern disposed on the same layer as the first pattern and a fourth pattern disposed on the same layer as the second pattern and overlapping with the third pattern.

[0006] In one embodiment, the plurality of second light-blocking patterns may be arranged in the non-display area in a manner that partially or entirely surrounds the display area.

[0007] In one embodiment, the display device further includes a plurality of first light-blocking patterns arranged in at least a first direction in the display area, including the first light-blocking pattern, wherein a first outermost light-blocking pattern located at the outermost edge of the display area in the first direction among the plurality of first light-blocking patterns and a second light-blocking pattern among the plurality of second light-blocking patterns may be adjacent to each other in the first direction.

[0008] In one embodiment, the distance in the first direction between the two first light-blocking patterns closest to each other in the first direction among the plurality of first light-blocking patterns may be the same as the distance in the first direction between the first outermost light-blocking pattern and the one second light-blocking pattern.

[0009] In one embodiment, the display device further includes a plurality of first light-blocking patterns spaced apart from each other in the display area, wherein each of the plurality of first light-blocking patterns can surround at least one corresponding light-emitting area among the light-emitting areas.

[0010] In one embodiment, at least one first light-blocking pattern among the plurality of first light-blocking patterns includes at least one opening that overlaps with the corresponding at least one light-emitting region and at least one other opening that does not overlap with the light-emitting regions, and each of the remaining first light-blocking patterns among the plurality of first light-blocking patterns, excluding the at least one first light-blocking pattern, may include a plurality of openings that surround the corresponding plurality of light-emitting regions among the light-emitting regions and overlap with each of the plurality of light-emitting regions.

[0011] In one embodiment, when viewed in a planar view, the plurality of first light-blocking patterns may have the same shape as each other.

[0012] In one embodiment, the first light-blocking pattern includes at least one opening that overlaps with the at least one light-emitting region, and at least one second light-blocking pattern among the plurality of second light-blocking patterns may include at least one opening spaced apart from the light-emitting regions and the first light-blocking pattern.

[0013] In one embodiment, when viewed in a planar view, at least one of the plurality of second light-blocking patterns and the first light-blocking pattern may have the same shape.

[0014] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of second light-blocking patterns and the first light-blocking pattern may include at least one ring pattern.

[0015] In one embodiment, the first light-blocking pattern includes at least one opening that overlaps with the at least one light-emitting region, and at least one of the plurality of second light-blocking patterns may be a solid pattern with an interior filled on a plane.

[0016] In one embodiment, when viewed in a planar view, at least one of the plurality of second light-blocking patterns may be formed as a partial pattern having a shape corresponding to a part of the first light-blocking pattern.

[0017] In one embodiment, one of the plurality of second light-blocking patterns and the first light-blocking pattern are adjacent to each other in one direction, and the length of the one second light-blocking pattern in the one direction may be less than or equal to the length of the first light-blocking pattern in the one direction.

[0018] In one embodiment, the first pattern and the third pattern may contain the same material, and the second pattern and the fourth pattern may contain the same material.

[0019] In one embodiment, the display device may further include a pixel defining layer disposed between the substrate and the plurality of color filters and surrounding the light-emitting regions; and an encapsulation layer disposed on the light-emitting elements and the pixel defining layer and covering the light-emitting elements from below the plurality of color filters.

[0020] In one embodiment, the plurality of color filters include: a first color filter disposed on a first light-emitting element among the light-emitting elements and transmitting light of a first color; a second color filter disposed on a second light-emitting element among the light-emitting elements and transmitting light of a second color; and a third color filter disposed on a third light-emitting element among the light-emitting elements and transmitting light of a third color, and the first light-blocking pattern and the plurality of second light-blocking patterns may be disposed on an organic layer covering the first color filter, the second color filter and the third color filter.

[0021] In one embodiment, at least two of the first color filter, the second color filter, and the third color filter overlap each other on a portion of the pixel definition layer, and the first light-blocking pattern and the plurality of second light-blocking patterns may be arranged on the portion where the at least two color filters overlap.

[0022] In one embodiment, the display device may further include a touch electrode disposed between the encapsulation layer and the plurality of color filters and overlapping with a portion of the pixel definition layer.

[0023] A display device according to one embodiment may include: a substrate including a display area including light-emitting regions and a non-display area adjacent to the display area; light-emitting elements disposed in the light-emitting regions on the substrate; a light-blocking layer located in the display area and the non-display area on the substrate and including a plurality of openings, wherein the plurality of openings include a plurality of first openings located in the display area and overlapping with each of the light-emitting regions; and a plurality of second openings located in the non-display area and spaced apart from the light-emitting regions.

[0024] In one embodiment, the plurality of second openings may be spaced apart from each other to partially or entirely surround the display area.

[0025] In one embodiment, the plurality of first openings includes a first outermost opening that overlaps with the outermost light-emitting region closest to the non-display region in one direction among the light-emitting regions, and the plurality of second openings may include at least one second opening adjacent to the first outermost opening in the one direction.

[0026] In one embodiment, the light-emitting regions include a plurality of first light-emitting regions that emit light of a first color, and the plurality of first openings include a first-1 opening that overlaps with one of the plurality of first light-emitting regions, and a first-2 opening that overlaps with another of the plurality of first light-emitting regions, and the size of the first-1 opening and the size of the first-2 opening may be different.

[0027] In one embodiment, the plurality of second openings may include a second-1 opening having the same size as the first-1 opening, and a second-2 opening having the same size as the first-2 opening.

[0028] In one embodiment, the light-blocking layer may include: a first light-blocking layer formed continuously in the display area and the non-display area and surrounding the light-emitting areas; and a second light-blocking layer comprising first light-blocking patterns spaced apart from each other on the first light-blocking layer in the display area and surrounding some of the light-emitting areas.

[0029] In one embodiment, the second light-blocking layer may further include second light-blocking patterns spaced apart from the first light-blocking patterns and disposed in the non-display area.

[0030] In one embodiment, the light-blocking layer may include: a first light-blocking layer comprising first light-blocking patterns that are spaced apart from each other in the display area and surround some of the light-emitting areas; and a second light-blocking layer that is continuously formed on the first light-blocking layer in the display area and the non-display area and surrounds the light-emitting areas.

[0031] In one embodiment, the first light-blocking layer may further include second light-blocking patterns spaced apart from the first light-blocking patterns and disposed in the non-display area.

[0032] In one embodiment, the light-blocking layer comprises: a first light-blocking layer formed continuously in the display area and the non-display area and surrounding the light-emitting areas; and a second light-blocking layer formed continuously in the display area and the non-display area on the first light-blocking layer and surrounding the light-emitting areas, wherein each of the first light-blocking layer and the second light-blocking layer may include the plurality of first openings in the display area and the plurality of second openings in the non-display area.

[0033] An electronic device according to one embodiment includes a display module including a display panel; and a processor that transmits an image data signal to the display module, wherein the display panel includes a substrate including a display area including light-emitting regions and a non-display area adjacent to the display area; light-emitting elements disposed on the light-emitting regions on the substrate; a plurality of color filters disposed on the light-emitting elements and positioned corresponding to each of the light-emitting regions; a first light-blocking pattern located on the display area on the plurality of color filters and surrounding at least one light-emitting region among the light-emitting regions; and a plurality of second light-blocking patterns located on the non-display area on the plurality of color filters and spaced apart from the first light-blocking pattern, wherein the first light-blocking pattern includes a first pattern disposed on the plurality of color filters and a second pattern disposed on the first pattern and overlapping with the first pattern, and each of the plurality of second light-blocking patterns may include a third pattern disposed on the same layer as the first pattern and a fourth pattern disposed on the same layer as the second pattern and overlapping with the third pattern.

[0034] In one embodiment, the plurality of second light-blocking patterns may be arranged in the non-display area in a manner that partially or entirely surrounds the display area.

[0035] In one embodiment, the display panel further includes a plurality of first light-blocking patterns arranged in at least a first direction in the display area, including the first light-blocking pattern, wherein a first outermost light-blocking pattern located at the outermost edge of the display area in the first direction among the plurality of first light-blocking patterns and a second light-blocking pattern among the plurality of second light-blocking patterns may be adjacent to each other in the first direction.

[0036] In one embodiment, the display panel further includes a plurality of first light-blocking patterns spaced apart from each other in the display area, including the first light-blocking pattern, and each of the plurality of first light-blocking patterns can surround at least one corresponding light-emitting area among the light-emitting areas.

[0037] In one embodiment, at least one first light-blocking pattern among the plurality of first light-blocking patterns includes at least one opening that overlaps with the corresponding at least one light-emitting region and at least one other opening that does not overlap with the light-emitting regions, and each of the remaining first light-blocking patterns among the plurality of first light-blocking patterns, excluding the at least one first light-blocking pattern, may include a plurality of openings that surround the corresponding plurality of light-emitting regions among the light-emitting regions and overlap with each of the plurality of light-emitting regions.

[0038] In one embodiment, the first light-blocking pattern includes at least one opening that overlaps with the at least one light-emitting region, and at least one second light-blocking pattern among the plurality of second light-blocking patterns may include at least one opening spaced apart from the light-emitting regions and the first light-blocking pattern.

[0039] In one embodiment, when viewed in a planar view, at least one of the plurality of second light-blocking patterns and the first light-blocking pattern may have the same shape.

[0040] In one embodiment, the display panel may further include a pixel defining layer disposed between the substrate and the plurality of color filters and surrounding the light-emitting regions; and an encapsulation layer disposed on the light-emitting elements and the pixel defining layer and covering the light-emitting elements from below the plurality of color filters.

[0041] In one embodiment, the plurality of color filters include: a first color filter disposed on a first light-emitting element among the light-emitting elements and transmitting light of a first color; a second color filter disposed on a second light-emitting element among the light-emitting elements and transmitting light of a second color; and a third color filter disposed on a third light-emitting element among the light-emitting elements and transmitting light of a third color, and the first light-blocking pattern and the plurality of second light-blocking patterns may be disposed on an organic layer covering the first color filter, the second color filter and the third color filter.

[0042] In one embodiment, at least two of the first color filter, the second color filter, and the third color filter overlap each other on a portion of the pixel definition layer, and the first light-blocking pattern and the plurality of second light-blocking patterns may be arranged on the portion where the at least two color filters overlap.

[0043] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings. Effects of the invention

[0044] The display device and electronic device according to the embodiments may include pixels disposed in a display area and each including light-emitting regions, and a light-shielding structure surrounding at least some of the light-emitting regions in the display area. According to the embodiments, by selectively driving at least some of the pixels according to the display mode, the viewing angle of the display device and electronic device can be varied to match the viewing angle characteristics required in each display mode.

[0045] In some embodiments, the display device and the electronic device may further include a light-shielding structure disposed in a part of the non-display area. According to the embodiments, the optical properties of the display device and the electronic device can be homogenized over the entire display area including the edge portion, and light leakage or color difference that may occur at the edge portion of the display area or around it can be suppressed or reduced.

[0046] 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

[0047] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a display device according to one embodiment. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the display device of Figure 2. FIG. 4 is a plan view showing the display area of ​​a display device according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a plan view showing a part of a display panel corresponding to area A1 of FIG. 4. Figure 6 is a plan view showing the pixels of Figure 5 and the light-blocking member. Fig. 7 is a plan view showing the pixels of Fig. 5 and the first light-blocking patterns. FIG. 8 is a plan view showing a first pixel according to one embodiment. FIG. 9 is a plan view showing a second pixel according to one embodiment. FIG. 10 shows an example of a cross-section of a part of a display panel cut along the line X1-X1' of FIG. 5. FIG. 11 shows an example of a cross-section of a part of a display panel cut along the line X2-X2' of FIG. 5. FIG. 12 shows an example of a cross-section of a part of a display panel cut along the line X1-X1' of FIG. 5. FIG. 13 shows an example of a cross-section of a part of a display panel cut along the line X2-X2' of FIG. 5. FIG. 14 is a plan view showing a part of a display panel corresponding to area A2 of FIG. 4. FIG. 15 shows an example of a cross-section of a part of a display panel cut along the X3-X3' and X4-X4' lines of FIG. 14. FIG. 16 is a plan view showing a part of a display panel corresponding to area A2 of FIG. 4. FIG. 17 is a plan view showing a part of a display panel corresponding to area A3 of FIG. 4. FIG. 18 shows an example of a cross-section of a part of a display panel cut along the X5-X5' and X6-X6' lines of FIG. 16. FIG. 19 is a plan view showing a part of a display panel corresponding to area A4 of FIG. 4. FIG. 20 is a plan view showing a first light-blocking pattern and a second light-blocking pattern according to one embodiment. FIGS. 21 to 28 are plan views showing a first light-blocking pattern and a second light-blocking pattern according to each embodiment. FIGS. 29 to 31 are plan views showing a part of a display panel according to each embodiment. FIG. 32 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 33 is a schematic diagram of an electronic device according to various embodiments. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] Each embodiment disclosed herein may be practiced alone or in combination with at least one other embodiment. For example, features of various embodiments of the present invention may be combined or combined with one another, either partially or wholly, and technically, various interlocking and operation may be possible. In describing the embodiments below, the same reference numerals are assigned to configurations that are substantially identical or similar to the previously described embodiments, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0051] Specific embodiments will be described below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0052] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0053] Referring to FIG. 1, an electronic device (1) according to one embodiment may refer to any electronic device that provides a display screen as a display of a video or a still image. For example, a television, laptop, monitor, billboard, Internet of Things, mobile phone, smartphone, tablet PC (tablet personal computer), 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 electronic device (1).

[0054] The electronic device (1) may include a display device (e.g., the display device (10) of FIG. 2) that provides a display screen. For example, the display device may include a display panel that is placed within a space enclosed by an exterior structure (ES) including a housing (HS) and a window (WD), and is placed below the window (WD) or integrated with the window (WD). In addition to the display panel, the display device may further include additional components forming a display module.

[0055] The electronic device (1) may have various shapes according to the embodiments. For example, the electronic device (1) may have a rectangular shape, a square shape, a substantially rectangular shape with rounded corners, other polygonal shapes, or a circular shape. In FIG. 1, an electronic device (1) with a rectangular shape is illustrated, in which the length in the second direction (DR2) is longer than the length in the first direction (DR1).

[0056] The first direction (DR1), the second direction (DR2), and the third direction (DR3) of FIG. 1 may be directions that intersect each other. For example, the first direction (DR1) may be the horizontal direction of the electronic device (1), the second direction (DR2) may be the vertical direction of the electronic device (1), and the third direction (DR3) may be the thickness direction of the electronic device (1).

[0057] The electronic device (1) may include a display area (DA) and a non-display area (NDA). The display area (DA) is an area where an image can be displayed, and the non-display area (NDA) is an area where an image is not displayed. The display area (DA) may generally occupy the center of the electronic device (1). The shape of the display area (DA) may be similar to the overall shape of the electronic device (1), but is not limited thereto.

[0058] Pixels can be arranged in the display area (DA). An image can be displayed in the display area (DA) by the pixels.

[0059] In one embodiment, the electronic device (1) may further include a non-display light-transmitting area (OPA) surrounded by a display area (DA). The non-display light-transmitting area (OPA) is a component area where components for adding various functions to the electronic device (1) are placed, and pixels may not be placed in the non-display light-transmitting area (OPA). For example, the non-display light-transmitting area (OPA) may be an area where light can be transmitted through an optical and / or physical opening formed in a display panel (for example, a HIAA (Hole in Active Area) area), and an optical device such as a camera or an optical sensor may be placed below the non-display light-transmitting area (OPA) of the display panel.

[0060] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a display device according to one embodiment. For example, FIG. 2 shows an example of a display device (10) (or display module) that may be included in the electronic device (1) of FIG. 1.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, an electronic device (1) according to one embodiment may include a display device (10). For example, the electronic device (1) may include a display device (10) that is housed inside a housing (HS) and implements a display screen.

[0062] The display device (10) may include a display panel (100), a display driving unit (200), and a circuit board (300). If the display device (10) provides a touch input function, the display device (10) may further include a touch driving unit (400).

[0063] A display panel (100) may include a main area (MA) and a sub-area (SBA). The main area (MA) may include a display area (DA) containing pixels and a non-display area (NDA) positioned around the display area (DA). The display area (DA) may be positioned in the center of the main area (MA), and the non-display area (NDA) may surround the display area (DA). In one embodiment, the main area (MA) may further include a non-display light-transmitting area (OPA) surrounded by the display area (DA).

[0064] A display area (DA) includes light-emitting regions of pixels and can emit light from said light-emitting regions. A display panel (100) according to one embodiment may be a light-emitting display panel including light-emitting elements. For example, the display panel (100) may include circuit elements constituting pixel circuits of pixels, light-emitting elements electrically connected to said circuit elements, and a pixel definition layer defining light-emitting regions in which said light-emitting elements are arranged. In one embodiment, the light-emitting element may be one of an organic light-emitting diode, a quantum dot LED, an inorganic LED, a micro LED, or a nano LED, but is not limited thereto.

[0065] When the display device (10) provides a touch input function in the display area (DA), the display device (10) may further include touch electrodes placed in the display area (DA). The touch electrodes may be electrically connected to a touch driving unit (400).

[0066] A non-display area (NDA) may be adjacent to a display area (DA). For example, the non-display area (NDA) may be in contact with the display area (DA). The non-display area (NDA) may include an edge area of ​​a main area (MA) located outside the display area (DA). In one embodiment, the non-display area (NDA) may include a gate driver (not shown) that supplies gate signals to gate lines and various wirings (e.g., pixels, touch electrodes, signal lines and power lines electrically connected to the gate driver and / or display driver (200), etc.).

[0067] A sub-region (SBA) may extend from one side of a main region (MA). The sub-region (SBA) may have flexible characteristics to enable bending, folding, rolling, etc. In one embodiment, the sub-region (SBA) may be bent or folded so that at least a portion of the sub-region (SBA) is positioned below the main region (MA).

[0068] The sub-region (SBA) may include a display driver (200) and a pad portion electrically connected to a circuit board (300). In another embodiment, the sub-region (SBA) may be omitted, and the display driver (200) and the pad portion may be placed in a non-display area (NDA) of the main area (MA). In yet another embodiment, the display driver (200) may be placed on a circuit board (300), etc., connected to a display panel (100), and may be electrically connected to the display panel (100) through the pad portion.

[0069] The display driver (200) can output signals for driving the display panel (100). For example, the display driver (200) can control the pixels by supplying data signals to data lines electrically connected to the pixels. In one embodiment, the display driver (200) may output additional signals or voltages (for example, at least one of gate control signals and power supply voltages for pixel driving) in addition to the data signals. The types of signals or voltages output from the display driver (200) may vary depending on the structure, function, and / or type of the display panel (100), etc. In one embodiment, the display driver (200) may be formed as an integrated circuit (IC) and mounted on the display panel (100) using a COG (Chip on Glass) method, a COP (Chip on Plastic) method, or an ultrasonic bonding method.

[0070] A circuit board (300) may be attached to a pad portion of a display panel (100). Lead lines of the circuit board (300) may be electrically connected to the pad portion of the display panel (100). In one embodiment, the circuit board (300) may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB), a printed circuit board (PCB), or a flexible film such as a chip on film (COF). The circuit board (300) may serve as an electrical interface between the display device (10) and an external driving circuit (e.g., a main board).

[0071] The touch driving unit (400) may be mounted on the circuit board (300). The touch driving unit (400) may be electrically connected to the touch electrodes of the display panel (100). The touch driving unit (400) may supply a touch driving signal to the touch electrodes and detect a touch input by detecting a change in capacitance between the touch electrodes or a change in capacitance between each touch electrode and a reference potential. The touch driving unit (400) may be formed as an integrated circuit (IC).

[0072] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the display device of FIG. 2. For example, FIG. 3 schematically shows a cross-section of a display device (10) housed inside the housing (HS) of FIG. 1, and the display device (10) of FIG. 3 may be the display device (10) of FIG. 2. The display panel (100) may be housed inside the housing (HS) in a bent state as shown in FIG. 3.

[0073] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the display panel (100) may include a display layer (DSL), a touch sensing layer (TSL), a color filter layer (CFL), and a light control layer (BMPL). The color filter layer (CFL) and the light control layer (BMPL) may form an optical layer for adjusting, controlling, and / or improving the optical characteristics of the display panel (100).

[0074] The display layer (DSL) may include a substrate (SUB), a thin-film transistor layer (TFTL), an emitting element layer (EDL), and an encapsulation layer (TFEL).

[0075] A substrate (SUB) is a base member that provides a process base for forming a display panel (100) and may include a display area (DA) and a non-display area (NDA). If the display panel (100) includes a sub-area (SBA), the substrate (SUB) may further include a sub-area (SBA).

[0076] The substrate (SUB) may be a flexible substrate capable of bending, folding, rolling, etc., but is not limited thereto. In one embodiment, the substrate (SUB) may include a polymer resin such as polyimide (PI), or may include a glass material or a metal material.

[0077] A thin-film transistor layer (TFTL) may be disposed on a substrate (SUB). The thin-film transistor layer (TFTL) may include circuit elements constituting pixel circuits of pixels, for example, thin-film transistors and capacitors. The thin-film transistor layer (TFTL) may further include wiring. For example, the thin-film transistor layer (TFTL) may include gate lines, data lines, power lines, gate control lines, fan-out lines electrically connecting the display driver (200) and the data lines, and lead lines electrically connecting the display driver (200) and the pad portion. If the display panel (100) includes a gate driver disposed in a non-display area (NDA), the thin-film transistor layer (TFTL) may further include circuit elements constituting the gate driver.

[0078] The thin-film transistor layer (TFTL) may be disposed in a display area (DA), a non-display area (NDA), and a sub-area (SBA). Circuit elements constituting the pixel circuits of the pixels, and gate lines, data lines, and power lines electrically connected to the pixels may be disposed in the display area (DA) of the thin-film transistor layer (TFTL). The gate lines, data lines, and power lines may extend into the non-display area (NDA) of the thin-film transistor layer (TFTL) and may be electrically connected to a gate driver, a display driver (200), or a pad, respectively. Gate control lines and fan-out lines may be disposed in the non-display area (NDA) of the thin-film transistor layer (TFTL). Lead lines may be disposed in the sub-area (SBA) of the thin-film transistor layer (TFTL). In one embodiment, the thin-film transistor layer (TFTL) may further include a portion of sensor wiring electrically connecting the touch driver (400) and the pad.

[0079] A light-emitting element layer (EDL) may be disposed on a thin-film transistor layer (TFTL). The light-emitting element layer (EDL) may include a pixel definition layer that defines light-emitting regions of pixels, and light-emitting elements disposed in the light-emitting regions. A pixel (or pixel unit) may include a plurality of subpixels and may include a plurality of light-emitting elements included in the plurality of subpixels and circuit elements electrically connected to the plurality of light-emitting elements (for example, circuit elements forming the pixel circuit of each subpixel). When an electrical signal is applied to a light-emitting element of each subpixel through at least one of the circuit elements of each subpixel (for example, at least one transistor including a driving transistor), the light-emitting element may emit light.

[0080] The encapsulation layer (TFEL) can be disposed on the light-emitting element layer (EDL). For example, the encapsulation layer (TFEL) is disposed on the pixel definition layer and the light-emitting elements of the light-emitting element layer (EDL), and can cover and protect the light-emitting elements.

[0081] The touch sensing layer (TSL) can be placed on the display layer (DSL). For example, the touch sensing layer (TSL) can be placed directly on the encapsulation layer (TFEL).

[0082] The touch sensing layer (TSL) may include touch electrodes for detecting touch input and at least a portion of sensor wiring electrically connected to the touch electrodes. In one embodiment, the touch sensing layer (TSL) may detect touch input provided by a user in a mutual capacitance or self-capacitance manner, and the touch electrodes may have a shape for constituting a mutual capacitance or self-capacitance touch sensor.

[0083] Touch electrodes of the touch sensing layer (TSL) may be placed in a display area (DA). For example, all or part of the display area (DA) may be a touch sensor area in which touch electrodes are placed. In one embodiment, each touch electrode may be formed as a mesh-shaped electrode including mesh lines placed in a non-luminous area between luminous areas. The touch electrodes are electrically connected to sensor wiring inside the display area (DA) or in a non-display area (NDA), and may be electrically connected to a touch driver (400) through the sensor wiring and a pad portion.

[0084] A color filter layer (CFL) may be disposed on a touch sensing layer (TSL). The color filter layer (CFL) may include color filters disposed corresponding to each of the light-emitting regions of the pixels. The color filter layer (CFL) may further include a light-blocking member surrounding the light-emitting regions of the pixels. The light-blocking member may be formed separately from the color filters using a light-blocking material, or may be formed by overlapping a plurality of color filters that selectively transmit light of different wavelength bands.

[0085] The color filter layer (CFL) can absorb a portion of the light entering from outside the display device (10) to reduce reflected light caused by external light. The color filter layer (CFL) can prevent color distortion caused by external light reflection. The color filter layer (CFL) can be optionally provided to the display device (10) as needed.

[0086] In one embodiment, the color filter layer (CFL) may be placed directly on the touch sensing layer (TSL). Accordingly, the display device (10) may not include a separate substrate for the color filter layer (CFL) and may have a reduced thickness.

[0087] A light control layer (BMPL) may be disposed on a color filter layer (CFL). The light control layer (BMPL) may include a light-blocking structure for adjusting the light-emitting characteristics of some pixels (for example, separate light-blocking patterns and / or an integrated light-blocking layer disposed around the light-emitting regions of some pixels to limit the viewing angle of said pixels). In one embodiment, the light control layer (BMPL) may be a light-blocking member layer comprising light-blocking patterns that surround the light-emitting regions of said pixels in close proximity to said light-emitting regions.

[0088] The light control layer (BMPL) can limit the viewing angle of the image displayed by some of the pixels. For example, the display device (10) can limit the viewing angle of the image displayed by some of the pixels in a specific display mode by including the light control layer (BMPL). Accordingly, the display device (10) can provide the user with a viewing angle limiting mode, such as a private mode or a privacy mode.

[0089] In one embodiment, an optical device may be disposed on the rear surface of the display panel (100). For example, the display device (10) or the electronic device (1) including it may further include an optical device disposed below the display panel (100) to overlap with a non-display light-emitting area (OPA).

[0090] FIG. 4 is a plan view showing the display area of ​​a display device according to one embodiment.

[0091] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 4, the display area (DA) of the display device (10) may include an edge portion (EDA) including the outermost border, and a central region (CDA) including the center as a portion excluding the edge portion (EDA). The central region (CDA) and the edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA) may also be referred to as the "first display area" and the "second display area," respectively.

[0092] The edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA) may include an outer edge portion (EDA1, EDA2) that contacts the non-display area (NDA) outside the display area (DA). In one embodiment, the display area (DA) may have a roughly rectangular shape and may have a rounded or chamfered shape at the corner portions. In this case, the outer edge portion (EDA1, EDA2) of the display area (DA) may include a side edge portion (EDA1) and a corner edge portion (EDA2). The side edge portion (EDA1) and the corner edge portion (EDA2) of the display area (DA) may also be referred to as the "first edge portion" and the "second edge portion," respectively. If the display area (DA) has an angular shape at the corners and side edges (EDA1) extending in different directions meet directly, the corner edge (EDA2) may not be defined separately. If the display area (DA) has an outer shape without straight sections (e.g., a circular shape or an elliptical shape), the side edge (EDA1) and the corner edge (EDA2) may not be distinguished when defining the outer edges (EDA1, EDA2) of the display area (DA).

[0093] As illustrated in FIG. 4, when the display area (DA) has a roughly rectangular shape and includes rounded corners, the side edge portion (EDA1) may include a left edge portion, a right edge portion, an upper edge portion, and a lower edge portion, and the corner edge portion (EDA2) may include a left upper edge portion, a right upper edge portion, a left lower edge portion, and a right lower edge portion. In one embodiment, the corner edge portion (EDA2) may have an overall rounded shape, but is not limited thereto. For example, the corner edge portion (EDA2) may have a stepped shape or a chamfered shape. As an example, the corner edge portion (EDA2) may have an overall rounded shape, but may have a stepped shape when viewed in detail through magnification.

[0094] In one embodiment, the display device (10) may include a non-display light-transmitting area (OPA) surrounded by a display area (DA). In this case, the display area (DA) may further include an inner edge portion (EDA3) adjacent to the non-display light-transmitting area (OPA). The inner edge portion (EDA3) may have a shape corresponding to the non-display light-transmitting area (OPA) and may surround the non-display light-transmitting area (OPA). The inner edge portion (EDA3) of the display area (DA) may also be referred to as a "third edge portion."

[0095] In addition to the embodiments described above, the display area (DA) may include edge portions (EDA) of various shapes and / or configurations.

[0096] The edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA) may include a boundary portion between the display area (DA) and the non-display area (NDA) or a section adjacent to said boundary portion. For example, the edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA) may be the boundary portion between the display area (DA) and the non-display area (NDA) itself, and a peripheral portion of the display area (DA) that includes outermost pixels adjacent to said boundary portion and positioned at the outermost edge of the display area (DA).

[0097] The outermost pixels may include the first pixels located in the direction of the display area (DA) from the boundary portion itself between the display area (DA) and the non-display area (NDA) among the pixels of the display area (DA), and may be arranged along the edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA). For example, the outermost pixels may include the first and last pixels located at both ends of the first direction (DR1) in each pixel row of the display area (DA), and the first and last pixels located at both ends of the second direction (DR2) in each pixel column of the display area (DA).

[0098] The peripheral part of the display area (DA) refers to the peripheral part (outer part or marginal part) of the display area (DA) other than the central part (CDA) of the display area (DA), and may be a part located outward from the central part (CDA) of the display area (DA). Additionally, the outermost pixels may include pixels located within at least one line unit (e.g., at least one pixel row or at least one pixel column) or at least one pixel unit (e.g., one pixel) from the boundary part of the edge part (EDA) of the display area (DA) (e.g., the boundary part between the display area (DA) and the non-display area (NDA), and / or the boundary part between the intermediate area between the display area (DA) and the non-display light-emitting area (OPA) and the display area (DA).

[0099] FIG. 5 is a plan view showing a part of a display panel corresponding to area A1 of FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a plan view showing the pixels and light-blocking member of FIG. 5. FIG. 7 is a plan view showing the pixels and first light-blocking patterns of FIG. 5. For example, FIG. 5 through FIG. 7 show pixels (PX), a light-blocking member (LBM), and first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) located in the central part (CDA) of a display area (DA).

[0100] FIGS. 5 to 7 show the configuration and arrangement of pixels (PX) based on a pixel definition layer (PDL) and a light-emitting element layer (EDL) including light-emitting elements (ED). In addition, FIGS. 5 to 7 show a light-blocking member (LBM) and first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) disposed within a color filter layer (CFL) and a light control layer (BMPL), respectively, as elements forming a light-blocking structure within an optical layer disposed on the light-emitting element layer (EDL).

[0101] FIG. 8 is a plan view showing a first pixel according to one embodiment. For example, FIG. 8 shows an enlarged view of an area where one first pixel (PX1) is placed in FIG. 5.

[0102] FIG. 9 is a plan view showing a second pixel according to one embodiment. For example, FIG. 9 shows an enlarged view of an area where one second pixel (PX2) is placed in FIG. 5.

[0103] Referring to FIGS. 5 through 9 in addition to FIGS. 2 through 4, a display device (10) may include pixels (PX) placed in a display area (DA). The display device (10) may further include a pixel definition layer (PDL) that defines light-emitting regions (EA) of pixels (PX) in the display area (DA), and a light-blocking member (LBM) that defines light-transmitting regions (TA) corresponding to the light-emitting regions (EA) of pixels (PX) or includes openings (OPN) corresponding to the light-emitting regions (EA). In FIGS. 5 through 9, light-emitting regions (EA) and light-transmitting regions (TA) are defined based on the front direction.

[0104] The light-emitting regions (EA) may be regions where light is generated from pixels (PX), and the light-transmitting regions (TA) may be regions where light generated from pixels (PX) is transmitted and emitted to the outside. In FIGS. 5 to 9, the light-emitting regions (EA) and the light-transmitting regions (TA) are defined based on the planar shape visible when viewing the display device (10) from a frontal direction (for example, a frontal direction corresponding to a viewing angle of 0°, which is perpendicular to the substrate (SUB) or the display surface). The planar shape may, for example, be a planar shape including a first direction (DR1) and a second direction (DR2). A light-emitting element (ED) may be disposed in each of the light-emitting regions (EA). In one embodiment, a color filter that selectively transmits light of a specific color may be disposed in each of the light-transmitting regions (TA). The color filter may be disposed on each light-emitting element (ED).

[0105] A pixel definition layer (PDL) is disposed within a light-emitting element layer (EDL) to define or partition light-emitting regions (EA) in a display area (DA). For example, the pixel definition layer (PDL) may be opened at a location corresponding to the light-emitting regions (EA) and may surround the light-emitting regions (EA). The shape and size of each opening (OP) of the pixel definition layer (PDL) may correspond to the shape and size of the corresponding light-emitting region (EA). A light-emitting element (ED) may be disposed at each opening (OP) of the pixel definition layer (PDL) to form each light-emitting region (EA).

[0106] The pixel definition layer (PDL) is placed in at least the display area (DA) and may extend into the non-display area (NDA). For example, the pixel definition layer (PDL) may also be placed in a portion of the non-display area (NDA) located around the display area (DA).

[0107] A light-blocking member (LBM) is placed within a color filter layer (CFL) to define or partition light-transmitting areas (TA). For example, the light-blocking member (LBM) is opened at a location corresponding to the light-transmitting areas (TA), and the shape and size of each opening (OPN) of the light-transmitting areas (TA) may correspond to the shape and size of the corresponding light-transmitting area (TA).

[0108] The light-blocking member (LBM) is positioned in at least the display area (DA) and may extend into the non-display area (NDA). For example, the light-blocking member (LBM) may also be positioned in a portion of the non-display area (NDA) located around the display area (DA).

[0109] The light-blocking member (LBM) is a type of light-blocking structure that reduces the transmittance of light, and, for example, may be formed as an absorbing portion that absorbs at least a portion of the incident light to reduce the transmittance of light, but is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the light-blocking member (LBM) may be formed by a plurality of color filters that overlap each other, or by a light-blocking pattern (for example, a black matrix pattern) formed separately from the color filters. When the light-blocking member (LBM) is formed by a plurality of color filters, each color filter may be placed in at least a portion of the light-blocking area surrounding the light-transmitting areas (TA) and in a portion of the light-transmitting areas (TA) corresponding to the light-emitting areas (EA) from which light of a specific color is emitted, and may be open in the light-transmitting areas (TA) corresponding to the light-emitting areas (EA) from which light of a different color is emitted.

[0110] The openings (OPN) of the light-blocking member (LBM) may overlap with the openings (OP) of the pixel definition layer (PDL). For example, when the display device (10) is viewed from the front, the light-blocking member (LBM) may not obscure the openings (OP) of the pixel definition layer (PDL). In a planar view, each opening (OPN) of the light-blocking member (LBM) has a size greater than that of each opening (OP) of the corresponding pixel definition layer (PDL), and the light-blocking member (LBM) may surround the light-emitting regions (EA) around the light-emitting regions (EA). For example, the light-blocking member (LBM) may be positioned outside the openings (OP) of the pixel definition layer (PDL) to surround the light-emitting regions (EA). When viewed in a planar view, each light-emitting region (EA) may be located inside the light-emitting regions (TA) of each pixel (PX).

[0111] The display device (10) may further include a light-blocking structure for adjusting the viewing angle of some pixels (PX). A light-blocking structure according to one embodiment may be first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) arranged separately from each other in a display area (DA).

[0112] However, the shape or structure of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) is not limited thereto. For example, the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may have a shape in which they are individually arranged in a structural unit area (e.g., each second pixel area) that includes the light-emitting regions (EA) of each of the second pixels (PX2), but at least some of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may be connected to each other through a narrow connecting portion (e.g., an integral connecting portion that connects the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and / or the second direction (DR2) between adjacent first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) in the first direction (DR1) and / or the second direction (DR2)) to form a single continuous pattern. In this case, a part of the light-blocking layer or light-blocking pattern located in the structural unit area corresponding to each of the second pixels (PX2) may be each first light-blocking pattern (BMP1). When all of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) of the display area (DA) are connected continuously, the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) can be formed substantially as a single pattern. The first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) can be formed as a single layer or a multilayer structure, and can be formed as a single continuous light-blocking layer in each layer or as a plurality of light-blocking patterns separated from each other.

[0113] In some embodiments, the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may have a multilayer structure of two or more layers. For example, each of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may include a first pattern (BMP11) and a second pattern (BMP12) disposed on the first pattern (BMP11). For example, the first pattern (BMP11) and the second pattern (BMP12) may be disposed at different heights on the substrate (SUB) as the lower pattern and upper pattern of each of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and may overlap each other in a third direction (DR3).

[0114] The first patterns (BMP11) of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may be formed as patterns of the first light-blocking layer (BM1), and the second patterns (BMP12) of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may be formed as patterns of the second light-blocking layer (BM2). For example, a display device (10) may include a first light-blocking layer (BM1) comprising first patterns (BMP11), and a second light-blocking layer (BM2) disposed on the first light-blocking layer (BM1) and comprising second patterns (BMP12). When a plurality of first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) are connected to each other, the first patterns (BMP11) included in the plurality of first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may be formed as a single continuous pattern to form part or all of the first light-blocking layer (BM1), and / or the second patterns (BMP12) included in the plurality of first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may be formed as a single continuous pattern to form part or all of the second light-blocking layer (BM2).

[0115] Pixels (PX) may be arranged uniformly throughout the display area (DA). Each of the pixels (PX) may include a plurality of light-emitting regions (EA). The pixels (PX) may include first pixels (PX1) (or first pixel units) and second pixels (PX2) (or second pixel units) having different light emission characteristics (emission angle characteristics such as, for example, emission angle distribution or effective emission angle range) and / or viewing angle characteristics. For example, light may be emitted from the first pixels (PX1) over a relatively wide angle range, and light may be emitted from the second pixels (PX2) over a relatively narrow angle range. Accordingly, light emitted from the first pixels (PX1) can be observed over a wide viewing angle range, and light emitted from the second pixels (PX2) can be observed over a narrow viewing angle range.

[0116] In describing the embodiments, a pixel (PX) is defined based on a repeating structural unit (e.g., a structural unit of repeating light-emitting regions (EA) or subpixels). For example, for convenience of explanation, a pixel (PX) is described as comprising four light-emitting regions (EA) arranged in a diamond shape, but the configuration, classification method, or driving unit of the pixel (PX) is not limited thereto.

[0117] Additionally, in describing the embodiments, the structural unit defined as a pixel (PX) may also be defined as a group of light-emitting regions or a group of subpixels. For example, the first pixel (PX1) may be a first group of light-emitting regions or a first group of subpixels comprising a plurality of light-emitting regions (EA) (or a plurality of subpixels) that emit light of different colors and emit light that can be observed over a wide viewing angle range, and the second pixel (PX2) may be a second group of light-emitting regions or a second group of subpixels comprising a plurality of light-emitting regions (EA) (or a plurality of subpixels) that emit light of different colors and emit light that can be observed over a narrow viewing angle range.

[0118] In some embodiments, the light emission characteristics (e.g., viewing angle characteristics) of the first pixels (PX1) and the second pixels (PX2) can be differentiated by first light-blocking patterns (BMP1). For example, the light emission characteristics of the first pixels (PX1) and the second pixels (PX2) can be differentiated by placing the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) only around the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixels (PX2). Each of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) defines openings that overlap with the light-emitting regions (EA) of the corresponding second pixel (PX2) and can surround the light-emitting regions (EA) of the corresponding second pixel (PX2).

[0119] Since the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixels (PX2) are surrounded by the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1), the lateral light of the second pixels (PX2) can be significantly reduced. On the other hand, since the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first pixels (PX1) are not substantially surrounded by the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1), the lateral light of the first pixels (PX1) may not be substantially blocked by the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1). For example, the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may be spaced apart from the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first pixels (PX1) by a relatively long distance, such that the effective emission angle range of the first pixels (PX1) is adjusted.

[0120] As the lateral light emitted from the second pixels (PX2) is reduced or blocked by the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1), the emission angle distribution of the light emitted from the second pixels (PX2) can be narrowly restricted. Accordingly, the light emitted from the second pixels (PX2) can be observed within a narrow viewing angle range. The viewing angle characteristics of the second pixels (PX2) may vary depending on the mutual arrangement structure between the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixels (PX2) and the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1).

[0121] In some embodiments, the viewing angle of the display device (10) can be easily varied by selectively driving at least some pixels (PX) in response to each display mode. For example, in response to the first display mode, both the first pixels (PX1) and the second pixels (PX2) are driven to display an image, thereby securing resolution and simultaneously outputting an image within a wide viewing angle range. On the other hand, in response to the second display mode, the first pixels (PX1) are turned off or non-emitting, and only the second pixels (PX2) are driven to display an image, thereby outputting an image within a narrow viewing angle range. Accordingly, the viewing angle of the display device (10) can be selectively changed or adjusted to match the viewing angle characteristics required in each display mode.

[0122] In some embodiments, the first pixels (PX1) and the second pixels (PX2) may be arranged alternately in at least one direction. For example, the first pixels (PX1) and the second pixels (PX2) may be arranged alternately in the fourth direction (DR4) and the fifth direction (DR5), respectively. The fourth direction (DR4) and the fifth direction (DR5) are diagonal directions inclined with respect to the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2), and, for example, may be diagonal directions perpendicular to each other. For example, the angle between the first direction (DR1) and the fourth direction (DR4) may be approximately 45˚, and the angle between the first direction (DR1) and the fifth direction (DR5) may be approximately 135˚. The fourth direction (DR4) may also be referred to as the "first diagonal direction" or "first diagonal direction," and the fifth direction (DR5) may also be referred to as the "second diagonal direction" or "second diagonal direction."

[0123] Each of the pixels (PX) may include light-emitting regions (EA) that emit light of different colors. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, each of the first pixel (PX1) and the second pixel (PX2) may include a first light-emitting region (EA1) that emits light of a first color, a second light-emitting region (EA2) that emits light of a second color, and a third light-emitting region (EA3) that emits light of a third color. Each of the first pixel (PX1) and the second pixel (PX2) may further include a fourth light-emitting region (EA4) that emits light of a second color. As an example, each of the first pixel (PX1) and the second pixel (PX2) may include a first light-emitting region (EA1), a second light-emitting region (EA2), a third light-emitting region (EA3), and a fourth light-emitting region (EA4) arranged in a roughly diamond shape centered on the middle.

[0124] In some embodiments, the first color light may be light in the red wavelength band (red light), the second color light may be light in the green wavelength band (green light), and the third color light may be light in the blue wavelength band (blue light). For example, each pixel (PX) may emit red light in the wavelength band of approximately 600 nm to 750 nm in the first emission region (EA1), emit green light in the wavelength band of approximately 480 nm to 560 nm in the second emission region (EA2) and the fourth emission region (EA4), and emit blue light in the wavelength band of approximately 370 nm to 460 nm in the third emission region (EA3). The above-described wavelength bands are merely examples and are not limited to the color or wavelength band of light emitted from each emission region (EA).

[0125] Accordingly, the pixel (PX) can emit light of various colors. Even if the driving unit of the pixel (PX) is different from the structural unit, various colors can be expressed by possible combinations of subpixels including light-emitting regions (EA) that emit light of different colors.

[0126] A first light-emitting region (EA1), a second light-emitting region (EA2), a third light-emitting region (EA3), and a fourth light-emitting region (EA4) may each be defined by a first opening (OP1), a second opening (OP2), a third opening (OP3), and a fourth opening (OP4) of a pixel defining layer (PDL). A first light-emitting element (ED1), a second light-emitting element (ED2), a third light-emitting element (ED3), and a fourth light-emitting element (ED4) may be disposed in the first light-emitting region (EA1), the second light-emitting region (EA2), the third light-emitting region (EA3), and the fourth light-emitting region (EA4), respectively. In some embodiments, each light-emitting element (ED) may generate light of a specific color emitted from each light-emitting region (EA). For example, the first light-emitting element (ED1), the second light-emitting element (ED2), the third light-emitting element (ED3), and the fourth light-emitting element (ED4) can each generate light of the first color, light of the second color, light of the third color, and light of the second color.

[0127] In one embodiment, each of the light-emitting regions (EA) may have a circular planar shape. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto, and at least one light-emitting region (EA) may have an elliptical, polygonal (e.g., a square) or other planar shape.

[0128] Each of the pixels (PX) may include a plurality of subpixels, each including a light-emitting element (ED). For example, each of the pixels (PX) may include a first subpixel including a first light-emitting element (ED1) (e.g., a red subpixel), a second subpixel including a second light-emitting element (ED2) (e.g., a green subpixel), a third subpixel including a third light-emitting element (ED3) (e.g., a blue subpixel), and a fourth subpixel including a fourth light-emitting element (ED4) (e.g., a green subpixel). Each subpixel may further include a pixel circuit electrically connected to each light-emitting element (ED). The brightness of the light-emitting element (ED) can be controlled by an electrical signal applied to the pixel circuit.

[0129] In one embodiment, the light-emitting regions (EA) are Pentile TM Type, for example, diamond pentile TM They can be arranged in a type. Throughout the display area (DA), the first light-emitting regions (EA1) and the third light-emitting regions (EA3) can be arranged alternately in the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2), respectively. Each of the first light-emitting regions (EA1) and the third light-emitting regions (EA3) can be arranged alternately with the second light-emitting regions (EA2) and the fourth light-emitting regions (EA4) in the fourth direction (DR4) and the fifth direction (DR5). For example, the first light-emitting regions (EA1) and the second light-emitting regions (EA2) can be arranged alternately in the fourth direction (DR4), and the first light-emitting regions (EA1) and the fourth light-emitting regions (EA4) can be arranged alternately in the fifth direction (DR5). The third light-emitting regions (EA3) may be arranged alternately with the second light-emitting regions (EA2) in the fifth direction (DR5) and alternately with the fourth light-emitting regions (EA4) in the fourth direction (DR4).

[0130] The configuration or arrangement of the pixels (PX) is not limited to the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 9 and may be changed according to the embodiments. For example, the number, type, shape, and / or arrangement structure of the light-emitting regions (EA) included in each of the pixels (PX) may be varied according to the embodiments. In addition, the structural unit or driving unit of the pixels (PX) may be varied according to the embodiments.

[0131] Each pixel (PX) may include light-emitting regions (EA) of uniform size, or light-emitting regions (EA) of adjusted or differentiated size. For example, the first light-emitting regions (EA1), the second and fourth light-emitting regions (EA2, EA4), and / or the third light-emitting regions (EA3) may be formed of different sizes, taking into account at least one of the color tone expressed in each pixel (PX) and the difference in characteristics between the light-emitting elements (ED) (e.g., difference in light efficiency and / or lifespan). For example, the size of the light-emitting regions (EA) may be differentiated to adjust or improve characteristics related to the lifespan or color tone of the display device (10).

[0132] In some embodiments, the third light-emitting regions (EA3) may have a relatively large size compared to the first light-emitting regions (EA1), the second light-emitting regions (EA2), and the fourth light-emitting regions (EA4). For example, the size of each of the third light-emitting regions (EA3) may be larger than the size of each of the first light-emitting regions (EA1), the size of each of the second light-emitting regions (EA2), and the size of each of the fourth light-emitting regions (EA4). Accordingly, the lifespan of the pixels (PX) and the display device (10) including them can be improved.

[0133] FIGS. 5 to 9 show an embodiment in which the first light-emitting regions (EA1), the second light-emitting regions (EA2), and the fourth light-emitting regions (EA4) have the same size as each other. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the size of each of the first light-emitting regions (EA1) may be different from the size of each of the second and fourth light-emitting regions (EA2, EA4).

[0134] The size or ratio of the light-emitting regions (EA) can be appropriately adjusted according to the color tone of the screen required in the display device (10). Additionally, the size of the light-emitting regions (EA) is related to the light efficiency of the pixels (PX) and the lifespan of the light-emitting elements (ED), and may have a trade-off relationship with reflection by external light. The size of the light-emitting regions (EA) can be adjusted or optimized by taking the above factors into consideration.

[0135] Each pixel (PX) may include a first light-emitting region (TA1) from which light emitted from a first light-emitting region (EA1) is emitted, a second light-emitting region (TA2) from which light emitted from a second light-emitting region (EA2) is emitted, a third light-emitting region (TA3) from which light emitted from a third light-emitting region (EA3) is emitted, and a fourth light-emitting region (TA4) from which light emitted from a fourth light-emitting region (EA4) is emitted. The first light-emitting region (TA1), the second light-emitting region (TA2), the third light-emitting region (TA3), and the fourth light-emitting region (TA4) may overlap with the first light-emitting region (EA1), the second light-emitting region (EA2), the third light-emitting region (EA3), and the fourth light-emitting region (EA4), respectively.

[0136] The first light-transmitting area (TA1), the second light-transmitting area (TA2), the third light-transmitting area (TA3), and the fourth light-transmitting area (TA4) can be defined by the first opening (OPN1), the second opening (OPN2), the third opening (OPN3), and the fourth opening (OPN4) of the light-blocking member (LBM), respectively. In the first light-transmitting area (TA1), the second light-transmitting area (TA2), the third light-transmitting area (TA3), and the fourth light-transmitting area (TA4), a color filter that transmits light of a first color, light of a second color, light of a third color, and light of a second color, and blocks light of another color, respectively, may be disposed. For example, a red color filter, a green color filter, a blue color filter, and a green color filter may be disposed in the first light-transmitting area (TA1), the second light-transmitting area (TA2), the third light-transmitting area (TA3), and the fourth light-transmitting area (TA4), respectively.

[0137] A light-blocking member (LBM) is placed entirely in the light-blocking area excluding the light-transmitting areas (TA) of pixels (PX) in the display area (DA), and may surround the light-transmitting areas (TA). The light-blocking area of ​​the display area (DA) is an area where at least one light-blocking layer is placed, and may be defined primarily by the light-blocking member (LBM). In some embodiments, the light-transmitting areas (TA) and the light-blocking area of ​​the display area (DA) may be further adjusted by first light-blocking patterns (BMP1). For example, at least one light-transmitting area (TA) included in the second pixel (PX2) may be further adjusted (for example, limited) by the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1).

[0138] As the light-blocking member (LBM) is placed across the entire light-blocking area of ​​the display area (DA), reflected light from external light can be reduced, and light leakage or interference between adjacent light-emitting areas (EA) can be reduced. Accordingly, reflected light from external light can be properly blocked without placing a separate polarizing layer, and the image quality and visibility of the image displayed in the display area (DA) can be improved.

[0139] In some embodiments, the light-blocking member (LBM) may surround the light-emitting regions (EA) at a position spaced apart from the light-emitting regions (EA). For example, by forming the light-transmitting regions (TA) larger than the light-emitting regions (EA) to account for the range of process error that may occur during the formation of the light-blocking member (LBM), the light-blocking member (LBM) may not obscure the light-emitting regions (EA) with respect to the front direction. For example, the light-transmitting regions (TA) may be formed with a size larger than the size of the light-emitting regions (EA), with a size difference (e.g., radius difference) corresponding to a horizontal distance greater than the minimum margin reflecting the patterning process capability of the light-blocking member (LBM) (e.g., distance on a plane including the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2)).

[0140] In some embodiments, the size of the light-emitting regions (TA) of the first pixels (PX1) may differ from the size of the light-emitting regions (TA) of the second pixels (PX2). For example, the light-blocking member (LBM) may surround the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixels (PX2) at a closer distance than the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first pixels (PX1). For example, the horizontal distance between the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixels (PX2) and the light-blocking member (LBM) may be smaller than the horizontal distance between the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first pixels (PX1) and the light-blocking member (LBM). Accordingly, the size of the light-emitting regions (TA) of the second pixels (PX2) may be smaller than the size of the light-emitting regions (TA) of the first pixels (PX1), and the side light of the second pixels (PX2) may be further reduced.

[0141] The first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) are placed on a display layer (DSL) including pixels (PX) and may be located in a display area (DA). For example, the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may be placed on a part of a pixel definition layer (PDL) and a light-blocking member (LBM) to surround the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixels (PX2). For example, the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may constitute at least a part of a light-blocking structure placed within the light control layer (BMPL) of FIG. 3.

[0142] The first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may not obscure the light-emitting regions (EA) of the pixels (PX) when the display device (10) is viewed from the front. For example, from a planar perspective, the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may not overlap with the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixels (PX2).

[0143] Each of the second pixels (PX2) may have light emission characteristics adjusted by the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1). For example, a portion of the light emitted in a lateral direction from each of the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixels (PX2) may be blocked by the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) to adjust the lateral luminance ratio and viewing angle of the second pixels (PX2). For example, a portion of the lateral light emitted from each of the second pixels (PX2) may be absorbed and / or blocked by the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) to reduce the lateral luminance ratio and viewing angle of the second pixels (PX2). Accordingly, the lateral luminance ratio of the second pixels (PX2) may be lower than the lateral luminance ratio of the first pixels (PX1), and the viewing angle of the second pixels (PX2) may be narrower than the viewing angle of the first pixels (PX1).

[0144] The side luminance ratio may refer to the ratio of side luminance to front luminance according to the viewing angle. For example, the side luminance ratio may refer to the ratio of luminance at a specific viewing angle (e.g., 45° or 60°, etc.) to luminance at a front viewing angle (e.g., a viewing angle of 0°). For example, at a viewing angle of 45° or more, the side luminance ratio of the second pixels (PX2) may be significantly lower than the side luminance ratio of the first pixels (PX1).

[0145] In some embodiments, each of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) has a shape and / or size corresponding to the light-emitting regions (EA) of the corresponding second pixel (PX2) and can surround the light-emitting regions (EA) of the corresponding second pixel (PX2). For example, each of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may have a ring shape around each of the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixel (PX2) and may uniformly surround each of the light-emitting regions (EA) in various directions. For example, if each of the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixel (PX2) has a circular shape, the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) may have a circular ring shape with a uniform width around each of the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixel (PX2).

[0146] Accordingly, the frontal brightness of the second pixels (PX2) can be secured, and the light emission characteristics of the second pixels (PX2) can be uniformly controlled in various directions. Accordingly, the light emission characteristics of the display device (10) can be improved.

[0147] In some embodiments, each of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may include a first pattern (BMP11) and a second pattern (BMP12) that overlap in a third direction (DR3). For example, the first pattern (BMP11) and the second pattern (BMP12) are located at different heights from the light-emitting elements (ED) and may have a shape and / or size suitable for controlling the light-emitting characteristics of the second pixels (PX2) (e.g., lateral luminance ratio at a specific viewing angle) to a target range at a position corresponding to each height. For example, the light emission angle and viewing angle of each of the second pixels (PX2) are controlled primarily by the second pattern (BMP12), and high-angle side light that may leak out to the outside of the second pattern (BMP12) (for example, side light that travels in a side direction with a large angle to the third direction (DR3) corresponding to the thickness direction (or normal direction) of the display panel (100) or substrate (SUB)) can be blocked or reduced by the first pattern (BMP11).

[0148] In one embodiment, the second pattern (BMP12) has a narrower width than the first pattern (BMP11) and can be placed on a part of the first pattern (BMP11). Accordingly, the side light emitted from each of the second pixels (PX2) can be effectively reduced, while preventing or reducing the side light emitted from each of the first pixels (PX1) from being blocked by the surrounding first light-blocking pattern (BMP1).

[0149] In some embodiments, the first pattern (BMP11) and the second pattern (BMP12) may each be formed as a single pattern in a portion surrounding the light-emitting regions (EA) of each of the second pixels (PX2). For example, in each second pixel area where the first light-emitting region (EA1), the second light-emitting region (EA2), the third light-emitting region (EA3), and the fourth light-emitting region (EA4) of each of the second pixels (PX2) are arranged, the first pattern (BMP11) may be formed integrally having a form in which four ring-shaped patterns (hereinafter referred to as "ring patterns") are in contact with each other and integrated (for example, a form in which four ring patterns partially overlap or are integrated, including openings corresponding to the light-emitting regions (EA) of each of the second pixels (PX2)), and the second pattern (BMP12) may be formed integrally having a form in which four ring patterns are connected through a connecting portion (BMC). Accordingly, in the process of forming the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1), the first pattern (BMP11) and the second pattern (BMP12) are prevented from being lost, and the first pattern (BMP11) and the second pattern (BMP12) can be formed stably. The four ring patterns formed as a single pattern may be different parts of the single pattern.

[0150] However, the shape of the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) is not limited thereto. For example, at least one of the first pattern (BMP11) and the second pattern (BMP12) may consist of ring patterns (e.g., four ring patterns separated from each other) that individually surround each of the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixel (PX2), or a plurality of ring patterns (e.g., four ring patterns) surrounding each of the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixel (PX2) may be divided into at least two groups and connected by group. Alternatively, the first patterns (BMP11) surrounding the light-emitting regions (EA) of the plurality of second pixels (PX2) may be formed integrally, and / or the second patterns (BMP12) surrounding the light-emitting regions (EA) of the plurality of second pixels (PX2) may be formed integrally.

[0151] In one embodiment, each of the first pattern (BMP11) and the second pattern (BMP12) may have an open shape at a position corresponding to the center of each of the second pixels (PX2). Accordingly, if it is necessary to form an optical hole within the display area (DA), an optical hole can be placed in the area where the second pixels (PX2) are placed, thereby facilitating or optimizing the design of the display panel (100). However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, each of the first pattern (BMP11) and the second pattern (BMP12) may not be open at a position corresponding to the center of each of the second pixels (PX2).

[0152] By individually adjusting the size, shape, and / or position of each of the first pattern (BMP11) and the second pattern (BMP12), the lateral luminance ratio and viewing angle of the second pixels (PX2) can be adjusted more precisely. In some embodiments, by differentiating the distance (e.g., horizontal distance on a plane) between the light-emitting regions (EA) of each of the second pixels (PX2) and the first and / or second patterns (BMP11, PTN2), the color of each of the second pixels (PX2) or the color change according to the change in viewing angle can be controlled.

[0153] In some embodiments, the viewing angle characteristics of the second pixel (PX2) can be improved by differentiating the horizontal distance between the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixel (PX2) and the second pattern (BMP12). For example, by adjusting or differentiating the horizontal distance between the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixel (PX2) and the second pattern (BMP12) by considering at least one of the size of the light-emitting regions (EA) and the type, wavelength band, and radiation characteristics of the light emitted from the light-emitting regions (EA), the difference in lateral luminance ratio by viewing angle between the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixel (PX2) can be reduced, and the color tone of the display device (10) can be uniformized overall.

[0154] In one embodiment, the second pattern (BMP12) may be positioned closer to the third light-emitting region (EA3), which has a relatively larger size among the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixel (PX2). For example, in the portion surrounding the third light-emitting region (EA3) of the second pixel (PX2), the inner edge of the second pattern (BMP12) (for example, the inner edge of the ring pattern surrounding the third light-emitting region (EA3)) may encroach upon the third light-emitting region (TA3) of the second pixel (PX2) defined by the light-blocking member (LBM) and be located between the third light-emitting region (EA3) and the third light-emitting region (TA3). Accordingly, the difference in lateral luminance ratio due to the difference in size of the light-emitting regions (EA) can be compensated, thereby preventing or reducing the color change of the second pixel (PX2) due to changes in the viewing angle.

[0155] In one embodiment, the second pattern (BMP12) may be positioned closer to the first light-emitting region (EA1) among the first, second, and fourth light-emitting regions (EA1, EA2, EA4) of the second pixel (PX2). For example, in the portion surrounding the first light-emitting region (EA1) of the second pixel (PX2), the inner edge of the second pattern (BMP12) may be positioned between the edge of the first light-emitting region (TA1) of the second pixel (PX2) defined by the light-blocking member (LBM) and the first light-emitting region (EA1) inside the first light-emitting region (TA1), and may be positioned closer to the edge of the first light-emitting region (TA1). On the other hand, in the portion surrounding the second light-emitting region (EA2) and the fourth light-emitting region (EA4) of the second pixel (PX2), the inner edge of the second pattern (BMP12) may be located outside the second light-emitting region (TA2) and the fourth light-emitting region (TA4) of the second pixel (PX2). Accordingly, the difference in light transmittance at the end of the second pattern (BMP12) (for example, an inner end located immediately around each light-emitting region (EA) including a tapered side) and / or the difference in side luminance ratio due to the difference in the distribution or radiation characteristics of light emitted from each light-emitting region (EA) can be compensated for, thereby preventing or reducing the color change of the second pixel (PX2) due to the change in viewing angle.

[0156] In some embodiments, the horizontal distance between the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixel (PX2) and the first pattern (BMP11) may be uniform. Additionally, the outer diameters of the four ring patterns forming the first pattern (BMP11) may be substantially the same, and the outer diameters of the four ring patterns forming the second pattern (BMP12) may be substantially the same. Accordingly, the light-emitting characteristics of the second pixel (PX2) can be uniformly controlled in multiple directions, and the influence of the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) on the light-emitting characteristics of the surrounding first pixel (PX1) can be reduced or minimized.

[0157] In addition to the embodiments described above, the light emission characteristics of the first pixels (PX1) and / or second pixels (PX2) can be adjusted or improved by adjusting the position, shape, and / or size, etc., of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1). For example, the position, shape, and / or size, etc., of the first pattern (BMP11) and the second pattern (BMP12), respectively, can be adjusted so as to appropriately limit the light emission characteristics (e.g., viewing angle) of the second pixels (PX2) to a target range or shape without interfering with light traveling in the lateral direction at a relatively large angle with respect to the front direction among the light emitted from the first pixels (PX1).

[0158] Accordingly, the viewing angle and image quality of the display device (10) can be optimized in accordance with each display mode. For example, the viewing angle of the display device (10) can be maintained widely or restricted narrowly in a manner that corresponds to each display mode, and the image quality of the display device (10) can be improved by preventing or reducing color changes due to changes in the viewing angle.

[0159] As described above, the display device (10) may include first pixels (PX1) and second pixels (PX2) having different viewing angle characteristics. Accordingly, the viewing angle of the display device (10) can be easily varied by selectively driving at least some of the pixels (PX) among the first pixels (PX1) and second pixels (PX2) in correspondence with each display mode. For example, the display device (10) may be driven to have optimized viewing angle characteristics in correspondence with each of a plurality of display modes, including a first display mode and a second display mode, by an electrical control method that selectively drives at least some of the pixels (PX) using an electrical signal applied to the pixels (PX).

[0160] The first display mode may be a wide viewing angle mode that outputs an image with a wider viewing angle. For example, the first display mode may be a normal mode or a public mode that provides an image to a user located within a wider viewing angle range without limiting the viewing angle of the image output from the display device (10).

[0161] When the first display mode is selected, at least the first pixels (PX1) can be driven. For example, in response to the first display mode, all pixels (PX) arranged in the display area (DA), for example, the first pixels (PX1) and the second pixels (PX2), can all be driven. During the period when the display device (10) is driven in the first display mode, an image can be output with a wide viewing angle range. For example, during the period when the display device (10) is driven in the first display mode, a high-resolution image can be output by the first pixels (PX1) and the second pixels (PX2), and an image can be output with a wide viewing angle by the first pixels (PX1). Accordingly, the image can be seen even when the display device (10) is viewed from the side. For example, while the display device (10) is driven in the first display mode, the side luminance ratio at a viewing angle of 45° can be 20% or more. Accordingly, during the period when the display device (10) is operated in the first display mode, an observer located within the viewing angle range of the display device (10) can see the image output from the display device (10) regardless of which direction they look at the display device (10).

[0162] The second display mode may be a narrow field of view mode that outputs an image with a narrower field of view. For example, the second display mode may be a private mode or privacy mode that can prevent or minimize the exposure of an image displayed on the display device (10) to a third party by limiting the field of view of the display device (10).

[0163] When the second display mode is selected, only the second pixels (PX2) having a relatively narrow viewing angle characteristic among the pixels (PX) of the display device (10) can be driven. For example, in response to the second display mode, the first pixels (PX1) can be turned off or not emit light, and the second pixels (PX2) can be driven to output an image with a narrow viewing angle range.

[0164] As described above, the display device (10) can output an image with a narrow viewing angle range in the second display mode compared to the first display mode. Therefore, during the period when the display device (10) is operated in the second display mode, the image output from the display device (10) can be properly seen by a user located in front of the display device (10), whereas the image output from the display device (10) may not be properly seen by an observer located in a direction outside the viewing angle range of the second display mode. For example, during the period when the display device (10) is operated in the second display mode, the lateral luminance ratio of the image output in a viewing angle direction greater than a specific viewing angle (e.g., 45° or 60°) may be 10% or less (e.g., 5% or less). For example, during the period when the display device (10) is operated in the second display mode, the lateral luminance ratio of the image output in a viewing angle range greater than 45° may be 5% or less. Accordingly, the image displayed in the display area (DA) may not be visible to an observer located in a side direction outside the narrow viewing angle range corresponding to the second display mode. Accordingly, the display device (10) can provide a viewing angle restriction mode that is advantageous for privacy protection or protection of personal information.

[0165] FIG. 10 shows an example of a cross-section of a portion of a display panel cut along the line X1-X1' of FIG. 5. FIG. 11 shows an example of a cross-section of a portion of a display panel cut along the line X2-X2' of FIG. 5.

[0166] FIG. 12 shows an example of a cross-section of a portion of a display panel cut along the line X1-X1' of FIG. 5. FIG. 13 shows an example of a cross-section of a portion of a display panel cut along the line X2-X2' of FIG. 5.

[0167] For example, FIGS. 10 and 12 show different embodiments regarding cross-sections of the first light-emitting region (EA1), the second light-emitting region (EA2), and the third light-emitting region (EA3) of the first pixel (PX1), and FIGS. 11 and 13 show different embodiments regarding cross-sections of the first light-emitting region (EA1), the second light-emitting region (EA2), and the third light-emitting region (EA3) of the second pixel (PX2). FIGS. 10 and 11, and FIGS. 12 and 13 show different embodiments with respect to the light-blocking member (LBM).

[0168] The cross-section of the fourth light-emitting region (EA4) of the first pixel (PX1) may be substantially the same as the cross-section of the second light-emitting region (EA2) of the first pixel (PX1). The cross-section of the fourth light-emitting region (EA4) of the second pixel (PX2) may be substantially the same as the cross-section of the second light-emitting region (EA2) of the second pixel (PX2).

[0169] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 13 in addition to FIGS. 2 to 9, a display panel (100) according to the embodiments may include a display layer (DSL), a touch sensing layer (TSL), a color filter layer (CFL), and a light control layer (BMPL). The touch sensing layer (TSL), the color filter layer (CFL), and the light control layer (BMPL) may be sequentially arranged on the display layer (DSL).

[0170] The display layer (DSL) may include a substrate (SUB) and a thin-film transistor layer (TFTL), an emitting element layer (EDL), and an encapsulation layer (TFEL) sequentially disposed on the substrate (SUB). The thin-film transistor layer (TFTL) and the emitting element layer (EDL) may each include circuit elements of pixels (PX) and emitting elements (ED).

[0171] The substrate (SUB) may include a display area (DA). The display area (DA) may include corresponding light-emitting areas (EA) and light-transmitting areas (TA), and a light-blocking area (NTA) excluding the light-transmitting areas (TA).

[0172] The light-emitting regions (EA) may be defined or demarcated by a pixel definition layer (PDL). The light-transmitting regions (TA) may be primarily defined by a light-blocking member (LBM) and may be selectively adjusted by first light-blocking patterns (BMP1). The remaining portion of the display area (DA) excluding the light-emitting regions (EA), for example, the area where the pixel definition layer (PDL) is placed, may be a non-light-emitting region. The non-light-emitting region may include a light-blocking region (NTA). For example, a light-blocking member (LBM) and / or at least one light-blocking layer may be placed in the remaining portion of the non-light-emitting region, excluding a portion of the non-light-emitting region located immediately around the light-emitting regions (EA), so that the remaining portion may become a light-blocking region (NTA).

[0173] The thin film transistor layer (TFTL) may include a first buffer layer (BF1), a lower metal layer (BML), a second buffer layer (BF2), a thin film transistor (TFT), a gate insulating layer (GI), a first interlayer insulating layer (ILD1), a capacitor electrode (CPE), a second interlayer insulating layer (ILD2), a first connecting electrode (CNE1), a first insulating layer (VIA1) (e.g., a first organic insulating layer), a second connecting electrode (CNE2), and a second insulating layer (VIA2) (e.g., a second organic insulating layer). The number or type of conductive layers and insulating layers forming the thin film transistor layer (TFTL), and / or the structure or type of the thin film transistor (TFT), etc., may be varied according to the embodiments.

[0174] The first buffer layer (BF1) may be disposed on a substrate (SUB). The first buffer layer (BF1) may include an inorganic film capable of preventing the penetration of air or moisture.

[0175] The lower metal layer (BML) may be disposed on the first buffer layer (BF1). In one embodiment, the lower metal layer (BML) 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.

[0176] The second buffer layer (BF2) can cover the first buffer layer (BF1) and the lower metal layer (BML). The second buffer layer (BF2) may include an inorganic film capable of preventing the penetration of air or moisture.

[0177] A thin-film transistor (TFT) may be disposed on a second buffer layer (BF2) and may be included in a pixel circuit electrically connected to each of the light-emitting elements (ED). FIGS. 10 to 13 schematically illustrate one thin-film transistor (TFT) electrically connected to each of the light-emitting elements (ED) among the circuit elements included in each pixel circuit. The thin-film transistor (TFT) may include an active layer (ACT) and a gate electrode (GE).

[0178] The active layer (ACT) may be disposed on the second buffer layer (BF2). The active layer (ACT) may overlap the lower metal layer (BML) and the gate electrode (GE) in the thickness direction (e.g., the third direction (DR3)) and may be insulated from the gate electrode (GE) by the gate insulating layer (GI). The active layer (ACT) includes a channel region that overlaps with the gate electrode (GE), and a portion of the active layer (ACT) may be conductive to form a source region (SE) and a drain region (DE).

[0179] The gate insulating layer (GI) can be placed on the active layer (ACT). For example, the gate insulating layer (GI) can cover the active layer (ACT) and the second buffer layer (BF2).

[0180] The gate electrode (GE) can be placed on the gate insulating layer (GI). The gate electrode (GE) can overlap with the active layer (ACT).

[0181] The first interlayer insulating layer (ILD1) may be disposed on the gate electrode (GE). For example, the first interlayer insulating layer (ILD1) may cover the gate insulating layer (GI) and the gate electrode (GE).

[0182] A capacitor electrode (CPE) may be disposed on the first interlayer insulating layer (ILD1). In one embodiment, when the gate electrode (GE) of a thin-film transistor (TFT) is electrically connected to a capacitor, the capacitor electrode (CPE) may overlap with the gate electrode (GE) to form a capacitance. For example, a capacitor may be formed by the capacitor electrode (CPE) and the gate electrode (GE).

[0183] The second interlayer insulating layer (ILD2) may be disposed on the first interlayer insulating layer (ILD1). For example, the second interlayer insulating layer (ILD2) may cover the first interlayer insulating layer (ILD1) and the capacitor electrode (CPE).

[0184] The first connecting electrode (CNE1) may be disposed on the second interlayer insulating layer (ILD2). The first connecting electrode (CNE1) may be electrically connected to a part of the thin-film transistor (TFT), for example, a drain region (DE), through a contact hole penetrating the gate insulating layer (GI), the first interlayer insulating layer (ILD1), and the second interlayer insulating layer (ILD2).

[0185] The first connecting electrode (CNE1) can electrically connect the thin-film transistor (TFT) and the second connecting electrode (CNE2). For example, the first connecting electrode (CNE1) can electrically connect the drain region (DE) of the thin-film transistor (TFT) to the second connecting electrode (CNE2). In one embodiment, another connecting electrode, wiring, or circuit element, etc., may also be electrically connected to the source region (SE) of the thin-film transistor (TFT).

[0186] The first insulating layer (VIA1) may be disposed on the first connecting electrode (CNE1). For example, the first insulating layer (VIA1) may cover the second interlayer insulating layer (ILD2) and the first connecting electrode (CNE1). The first insulating layer (VIA1) may include an inorganic insulating layer (e.g., a first passivation layer) and / or an organic insulating layer (e.g., a first planarization layer) covering the thin-film transistor (TFT).

[0187] The second connecting electrode (CNE2) may be disposed on the first insulating layer (VIA1). The second connecting electrode (CNE2) may electrically connect the first connecting electrode (CNE1) and the light-emitting element (ED). For example, the second connecting electrode (CNE2) may be electrically connected to the first connecting electrode (CNE1) through a contact hole penetrating the first insulating layer (VIA1), and electrically connected to the pixel electrode (AE) of the light-emitting element (ED) through a contact hole formed in the second insulating layer (VIA2). If the thin-film transistor layer (TFTL) does not include the second connecting electrode (CNE2), the pixel electrode (AE) of the light-emitting element (ED) may be directly connected to the first connecting electrode (CNE1) or the thin-film transistor (TFT).

[0188] The second insulating layer (VIA2) may be disposed on the second connecting electrode (CNE2). For example, the second insulating layer (VIA2) may cover the first insulating layer (VIA1) and the second connecting electrode (CNE2). The second insulating layer (VIA2) may include an organic insulating layer (for example, a second planarization layer). The second insulating layer (VIA2) may planarize the surface of the thin-film transistor layer (TFTL).

[0189] The light-emitting element layer (EDL) can be disposed on the thin-film transistor layer (TFTL). The light-emitting element layer (EDL) may include light-emitting elements (ED) and a pixel definition layer (PDL).

[0190] The pixel defining layer (PDL) may be disposed on the second insulating layer (VIA2). In one embodiment, the pixel defining layer (PDL) may cover the edge portions of the pixel electrodes (AE).

[0191] The pixel definition layer (PDL) is positioned at least in the display area (DA) and may be formed up to a portion of the non-display area (NDA) surrounding the display area (DA). For example, the end of the pixel definition layer (PDL) may be located in the non-display area (NDA).

[0192] A pixel definition layer (PDL) can define light-emitting regions (EA) of pixels (PX) in a display area (DA). For example, the pixel definition layer (PDL) includes a first opening (OP1), a second opening (OP2), a third opening (OP3), and a fourth opening (OP4) that define a first light-emitting region (EA1), a second light-emitting region (EA2), a third light-emitting region (EA3), and a fourth light-emitting region (EA4) of each pixel (PX), and may be placed in a non-light-emitting region to surround the light-emitting regions (EA). FIGS. 10 to 13 illustrate the first light-emitting region (EA1), the second light-emitting region (EA2), and the third light-emitting region (EA3) among the light-emitting regions (EA) of each pixel (PX).

[0193] The pixel defining layer (PDL) may include an insulating material. As an example, the pixel defining layer (PDL) may include an organic insulating material.

[0194] In one embodiment, the pixel defining layer (PDL) may include a light-absorbing material. For example, the pixel defining layer (PDL) may include a polyimide (PI)-based binder and a pigment mixed with red, green, and blue. Alternatively, the pixel defining layer (PDL) may include a cardo-based binder resin and a mixture of a lactam-based black pigment and a blue pigment. Alternatively, the pixel defining layer (PDL) may include carbon black.

[0195] The pixel defining layer (PDL) may have a shape suitable for defining the region where each light-emitting element (ED) is formed. For example, the pixel defining layer (PDL) may be formed by patterning a layer containing an insulating material into a shape and size suitable for partitioning or defining light-emitting regions (EA). As an example, the pixel defining layer (PDL) may have the shape of a bank or partition wall that is open at a location corresponding to each light-emitting region (EA) and surrounds each light-emitting region (EA). The pixel defining layer (PDL) may also be referred to as a "bank," "partition wall," "insulating layer," "insulating pattern," or "organic layer."

[0196] Light-emitting elements (ED) may be placed in light-emitting regions (EA). For example, a first light-emitting element (ED1), a second light-emitting element (ED2), and a third light-emitting element (ED3) may be placed in a first light-emitting region (EA1), a second light-emitting region (EA2), and a third light-emitting region (EA3), respectively. As illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 9, a fourth light-emitting element (ED4) may be placed in a fourth light-emitting region (EA4). In one embodiment, the second light-emitting element (ED2) and the fourth light-emitting element (ED4) are light-emitting elements (ED) of the same type and structure and may emit light of the same color.

[0197] The light-emitting element (ED) may include a pixel electrode (AE) (e.g., a first electrode or anode electrode of the light-emitting element (ED)), a light-emitting layer (EML), and a common electrode (CE) (e.g., a second electrode or cathode electrode of the light-emitting element (ED)). In each light-emitting region (EA), the pixel electrode (AE), the light-emitting layer (EML), and the common electrode (CE) of the light-emitting element (ED) may be arranged sequentially in a third direction (DR3).

[0198] For example, a first light-emitting element (ED1) placed in a first light-emitting region (EA1) may include a first pixel electrode (AE1), a light-emitting layer (EML) and a common electrode (CE) sequentially placed on the first pixel electrode (AE1). A second light-emitting element (ED2) placed in a second light-emitting region (EA2) may include a second pixel electrode (AE2), a light-emitting layer (EML) and a common electrode (CE) sequentially placed on the second pixel electrode (AE2). A third light-emitting element (ED3) placed in a third light-emitting region (EA3) may include a third pixel electrode (AE3), a light-emitting layer (EML) and a common electrode (CE) sequentially placed on the third pixel electrode (AE3). A fourth light-emitting element (ED4) placed in a fourth light-emitting region (EA4) may include a fourth pixel electrode (not shown), a light-emitting layer (not shown) and a common electrode (CE) sequentially placed on the fourth pixel electrode.

[0199] A pixel electrode (AE) may be disposed on a second insulating layer (VIA2). A pixel electrode (AE) may be disposed in each light-emitting region (EA). In one embodiment, the pixel electrode (AE) may include a reflective metal layer and may have a single-layer or multi-layer structure. For example, the pixel electrode (AE) may be a reflective electrode including a reflective metal layer, and light generated from each light-emitting element (ED) that travels downward toward the pixel electrode (AE) may be reflected by the pixel electrode (AE). At least some of the reflected light may be emitted to the front of the display panel (100).

[0200] At least a portion of the pixel electrode (AE) may be exposed without being covered by the pixel defining layer (PDL). For example, most of the area including the central portion of the pixel electrode (AE) may be placed within a corresponding opening (OP) of the pixel defining layer (PDL).

[0201] A light-emitting layer (EML) may be disposed on the pixel electrode (AE). The light-emitting layer (EML) may emit light in response to an electrical signal applied through the pixel electrode (AE) and the common electrode (CE). In one embodiment, the light-emitting layer (EML) may be an organic light-emitting layer containing an organic material, but is not limited thereto.

[0202] In one embodiment, the light-emitting layers (EML) of the first light-emitting element (ED1), the second light-emitting element (ED2), and the third light-emitting element (ED3) may emit light of different colors. For example, the light-emitting layer (EML) of the first light-emitting element (ED1) may emit light of a first color, for example, red light; the light-emitting layer (EML) of the second light-emitting element (ED2) may emit light of a second color, for example, green light; and the light-emitting layer (EML) of the third light-emitting element (ED3) may emit light of a third color, for example, blue light. The light-emitting layer (not shown) of the fourth light-emitting element (ED4) may emit light of a second color, for example, green light.

[0203] A common electrode (CE) may be disposed on the light-emitting layer (EML) of each of the light-emitting elements (ED). In one embodiment, the common electrode (CE) may include a transparent conductive layer or a semi-transparent metal layer and may have a single-layer or multi-layer structure. For example, the common electrode (CE) may be a transparent electrode or a semi-transparent electrode, and light generated from the light-emitting elements (ED) may pass through the common electrode (CE) and be emitted to the front of the display panel (100).

[0204] In one embodiment, the common electrode (CE) may be formed as a single common layer disposed across the entire display area (DA), and the light-emitting elements (ED) may share the common electrode (CE). A power supply voltage (e.g., a second pixel voltage or a cathode voltage) for driving the light-emitting elements (ED) may be applied to the common electrode (CE).

[0205] The encapsulation layer (TFEL) may be placed on the common electrode (CE) to cover the light-emitting elements (ED). The encapsulation layer (TFEL) may have a multilayer structure including an inorganic encapsulation layer and an organic encapsulation layer, but is not limited thereto. For example, the structure or material of the encapsulation layer (TFEL) may vary depending on the embodiments.

[0206] In one embodiment, the encapsulation layer (TFEL) may include a first encapsulation layer (TFE1), a second encapsulation layer (TFE2), and a third encapsulation layer (TFE3) sequentially disposed on light-emitting elements (ED). The first encapsulation layer (TFE1) and the third encapsulation layer (TFE3) may be inorganic films, and the second encapsulation layer (TFE2) may be an organic film.

[0207] The first encapsulation layer (TFE1) and the third encapsulation layer (TFE3) may include an inorganic insulating material. For example, each of the first encapsulation layer (TFE1) and the third encapsulation layer (TFE3) may include aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, tantalum oxide, hafnium oxide, zinc oxide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, or other inorganic insulating material.

[0208] The second encapsulation layer (TFE2) may include an organic insulating material. For example, the second encapsulation layer (TFE2) may include a polymer-based organic insulating material such as an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, polyimide, or polyethylene, or other organic insulating materials. The second encapsulation layer (TFE2) may be formed by curing a monomer or by applying a polymer.

[0209] The touch sensing layer (TSL) can be placed on the encapsulation layer (TFEL). For example, the touch sensing layer (TSL) can be placed between the display layer (DSL) and the color filter layer (CFL).

[0210] The touch sensing layer (TSL) may include a first touch insulating layer (SIL1), a second touch insulating layer (SIL2), a touch electrode (TSE), and a third touch insulating layer (SIL3). In one embodiment, at least one of the first touch insulating layer (SIL1) and the third touch insulating layer (SIL3) may be omitted.

[0211] The touch sensing layer (TSL) may include conductive patterns including touch electrodes (TSE). For example, the touch sensing layer (TSL) may include touch electrodes (TSE) positioned at locations corresponding to touch nodes of a display area (DA), and connection patterns (e.g., bridge patterns) and / or sensor wiring electrically connected to the touch electrodes (TSE).

[0212] In one embodiment, each touch electrode (TSE) may be a mesh-shaped electrode comprising mesh lines that define openings corresponding to light-emitting regions (EA) included in a plurality of pixels (PX) and are disposed in non-light-emitting regions between the light-emitting regions (EA). For example, each touch electrode (TSE) or each of the plurality of electrode cells constituting the touch electrode (TSE) may be a mesh-shaped pattern formed by first mesh lines that extend in the fourth direction (DR4) of FIG. 5 and are disposed between adjacent light-emitting regions (EA) in the fifth direction (DR5), and second mesh lines that extend in the fifth direction (DR5) of FIG. 5 and are disposed between adjacent light-emitting regions (EA) in the fourth direction (DR4). For example, mesh lines constituting a single touch electrode (TSE) may be integrally formed in a single touch cell region including a region in which a plurality of pixels (PX) are disposed. FIGS. 10 to 13 illustrate a plurality of mesh lines constituting a single touch electrode (TSE).

[0213] In some embodiments, each touch electrode (TSE) may be formed as a single layer of molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), or indium tin oxide (ITO), or as a stacked structure of aluminum and titanium (Ti / Al / Ti), a stacked structure of aluminum and ITO (ITO / Al / ITO), an APC alloy, and a stacked structure of APC alloy and ITO (ITO / APC / ITO).

[0214] Touch electrodes (TSE) have a uniform width and can overlap with a light-blocking member (LBM). For example, the mesh lines of each touch electrode (TSE) have a uniform width and can be located approximately below the center of the pixel definition layer (PDL) and the light-blocking member (LBM) between adjacent light-emitting regions (EA). Accordingly, it is possible to reliably prevent the touch electrodes (TSE) from encroaching upon the light-emitting regions (EA) and light-transmitting regions (TA) of pixels (PX), and to prevent or reduce the visibility of the touch electrodes (TSE) to the user.

[0215] In some embodiments, touch electrodes (TSE) may be disposed on a second touch insulating layer (SIL2) and covered with a third touch insulating layer (SIL3). Each of the conductive patterns (e.g., connection patterns or sensor wiring) electrically connected to the corresponding touch electrode (TSE) through at least one contact hole may be disposed on a first touch insulating layer (SIL1) and electrically connected to the corresponding touch electrode (TSE) through a contact hole penetrating the second touch insulating layer (SIL2). However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the positions on the cross-section of the touch electrodes (TSE) and the conductive patterns electrically connected to the touch electrodes (TSE) may be reversed.

[0216] The first touch insulating layer (SIL1) may be disposed on the encapsulation layer (TFEL). The first touch insulating layer (SIL1) may have an insulating function and an optical function. In one embodiment, the first touch insulating layer (SIL1) may include at least one inorganic film.

[0217] A second touch insulating layer (SIL2) may be disposed on a first touch insulating layer (SIL1). The second touch insulating layer (SIL2) may have an insulating function and an optical function. In one embodiment, the second touch insulating layer (SIL2) may be an inorganic film comprising at least one of a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, and an aluminum oxide layer. In another embodiment, the second touch insulating layer (SIL2) may be an optically transparent organic film.

[0218] Touch electrodes (TSE) (or a part of the touch electrodes (TSE)) may be disposed on the second touch insulating layer (SIL2). The touch electrodes (TSE) may comprise a conductive material and may be formed as a single layer or multiple layers.

[0219] A third touch insulating layer (SIL3) may be disposed on touch electrodes (TSE). For example, the third touch insulating layer (SIL3) may cover the second touch insulating layer (SIL2) and the touch electrodes (TSE). The third touch insulating layer (SIL3) may have insulating and optical functions. In one embodiment, the third touch insulating layer (SIL3) may include the material exemplified as the material of the second touch insulating layer (SIL2).

[0220] A color filter layer (CFL) may be disposed on a touch sensing layer (TSL). The color filter layer (CFL) may include a light-blocking member (LBM), color filters (CF), and a first overcoat layer (OC1) (or a first light-transmitting layer).

[0221] A light-blocking member (LBM) may be placed in a light-blocking region (NTA) to surround the light-emitting regions (EA) of pixels (PX). For example, the light-blocking member (LBM) may be placed on at least a portion of the pixel definition layer (PDL).

[0222] In one embodiment, the light-blocking member (LBM) is formed separately from the color filters (CF) as illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11 and may include a light-blocking material (e.g., a light-absorbing material). For example, the light-blocking member (LBM) may include a light-blocking material such as an inorganic black pigment or an organic black pigment, and may include openings (OPN) having a size greater than or equal to the openings (OP) of the pixel defining layer (PDL). The inorganic black pigment may be carbon black, and the organic black pigment may include at least one of lactam black, perylene black, and aniline black, but is not limited thereto. For example, the light-blocking member (LBM) may include other light-blocking materials suitable for absorbing and / or blocking light of a wavelength band emitted from the light-emitting regions (EA).

[0223] In one embodiment, the light-blocking member (LBM) is composed of different color filters (CF) that overlap each other in a third direction (DR3) as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 and selectively transmit different colors of light, and thus can have a light-blocking function. For example, the light-blocking member (LBM) can be formed by the first color filter (CF1), the second color filter (CF2), and the third color filter (CF3) overlapping each other in a light-blocking area (NTA). For example, at least two of the first color filter (CF1), the second color filter (CF2), and the third color filter (CF3) overlap each other on a part of the pixel definition layer (PDL), and the part where the at least two color filters (CF) overlap can form the light-blocking member (LBM). For example, at locations corresponding to the first light-emitting region (EA1), the second light-emitting region (EA2), and the fourth light-emitting region (EA4), the first light-transmitting region (TA1), the second light-transmitting region (TA2), and the fourth light-transmitting region (TA4) may be defined by the openings of the third color filter (CF3), and at locations corresponding to the third light-emitting region (EA3), the third light-transmitting region (TA3) may be defined by the openings of the first color filter (CF1).

[0224] A light-blocking member (LBM) may not be placed in the light-transmitting areas (TA). For example, a color filter (CF) of a specific color capable of transmitting light of a wavelength band emitted from a corresponding light-emitting element (ED) may be placed in each light-transmitting area (TA), and other color filters (CF) may not be placed.

[0225] Color filters (CF) may be placed in each light-transmitting region (TA) and overlap with each light-emitting element (ED). The color filters (CF) may include a first color filter (CF1) placed in each of the first light-transmitting regions (TA1), a second color filter (CF2) placed in each of the second light-transmitting regions (TA2), and a third color filter (CF3) placed in each of the third light-transmitting regions (TA3). A second color filter (CF2) may be placed in each of the fourth light-transmitting regions (TA4) of FIGS. 5 to 7. The color filters (CF) may include a colorant, such as a dye or pigment, that absorbs light of a wavelength band other than light of a specific wavelength band.

[0226] The first color filter (CF1) can transmit light of a first color emitted from the first light-emitting elements (ED1) and absorb and / or block light of other colors. For example, the first color filter (CF1) may be a red color filter that selectively transmits red light emitted from the first light-emitting elements (ED1).

[0227] The second color filter (CF2) can transmit light of a second color emitted from the second light-emitting elements (ED2) and the fourth light-emitting elements (ED4), and can absorb and / or block light of other colors. For example, the second color filter (CF2) may be a green color filter that selectively transmits green light emitted from the second light-emitting elements (ED2) and the fourth light-emitting elements (ED4).

[0228] The third color filter (CF3) can transmit light of a third color emitted from the third light-emitting elements (ED3) and absorb and / or block light of other colors. For example, the third color filter (CF3) may be a blue color filter that selectively transmits blue light emitted from the third light-emitting elements (ED3).

[0229] As a light-blocking member (LBM) and color filters (CF) are placed on the display layer (DSL), the intensity of reflected light from external light can be reduced.

[0230] The first overcoat layer (OC1) may be placed on the light-blocking member (LBM) and the color filters (CF). For example, the first overcoat layer (OC1) may be placed over the entire display area (DA) to cover the light-blocking member (LBM) and the color filters (CF). The first overcoat layer (OC1) may include a material suitable for protecting the color filters (CF) and may be a substantially transparent light-transmitting layer that allows light passing through the color filters (CF) to pass through. For example, the first overcoat layer (OC1) may be a light-transmitting organic layer containing a colorless light-transmitting organic material such as an acrylic resin. The first overcoat layer (OC1) may serve as a flattening layer and / or a protective layer. The first overcoat layer (OC1) may also be referred to as the "first organic layer" or the "first organic insulating layer."

[0231] A light control layer (BMPL) may be disposed on a color filter layer (CFL). The light control layer (BMPL) may include at least one light-blocking layer and at least one overcoat layer covering the at least one light-blocking layer. For example, the light control layer (BMPL) may include a first light-blocking layer (BM1) including first patterns (BMP11), a second overcoat layer (OC2) (or second light-transmitting layer) covering the first light-blocking layer (BM1), a second light-blocking layer (BM2) including second patterns (BMP12), and a third overcoat layer (OC3) (or third light-transmitting layer) covering the second light-blocking layer (BM2). A pair of corresponding first patterns (BMP11) and second patterns (BMP12) may form a first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) that limits the viewing angle of each of the second pixels (PX2). The first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) can be placed on a part of the light-blocking member (LBM).

[0232] The light control layer (BMPL) may further include a light-transmitting layer (TPL) disposed between the second overcoat layer (OC2) and the second light-blocking layer (BM2) (for example, an additional light-transmitting layer for positioning the second light-blocking layer (BM2)). The height of the second light-blocking layer (BM2) (or a vertical distance corresponding to the height difference between the light-emitting elements (ED) and the second light-blocking layer (BM2), for example, a distance in the third direction (DR3)) can be easily controlled by the light-transmitting layer (TPL).

[0233] In one embodiment, the height of the light-blocking member (LBM), the first light-blocking layer (BM1), or the second light-blocking layer (BM2) may be defined with the upper surface of the pixel electrode (AE) as the reference plane. However, the reference plane defining the height of a specific element disposed on the substrate (SUB) may vary. For example, the height of the light-blocking member (LBM), the first light-blocking layer (BM1), or the second light-blocking layer (BM2) may be defined with the upper surface of the substrate (SUB) as the reference plane.

[0234] The first light-blocking layer (BM1) may be disposed on the first overcoat layer (OC1). The first patterns (BMP11) constituting the first light-blocking layer (BM1) may overlap with a part of the pixel definition layer (PDL) and the light-blocking member (LBM).

[0235] The second overcoat layer (OC2) may be disposed on the first overcoat layer (OC1) and the first light-blocking layer (BM1). For example, the second overcoat layer (OC2) may be disposed entirely on the first overcoat layer (OC1) and may cover the first patterns (BMP11). The second overcoat layer (OC2) may serve as a flattening layer and / or a protective layer.

[0236] A light-transmitting layer (TPL) may be disposed on a second overcoat layer (OC2). In one embodiment, the second overcoat layer (OC2) and the light-transmitting layer (TPL) may be light-transmitting organic layers formed by different process methods.

[0237] Each of the second overcoat layer (OC2) and the light-transmitting layer (TPL) may be a substantially transparent light-transmitting layer that allows light passing through the color filters (CF) to pass through. For example, each of the second overcoat layer (OC2) and the light-transmitting layer (TPL) may comprise a colorless light-transmitting organic material, such as an acrylic resin or other polymeric material. The second overcoat layer (OC2) may also be referred to as the "second organic layer" or "second organic insulating layer," and the light-transmitting layer (TPL) may also be referred to as the "third organic layer" or "third organic insulating layer."

[0238] The second overcoat layer (OC2) and the light-transmitting layer (TPL) may contain the same material or different materials. If the second overcoat layer (OC2) and the light-transmitting layer (TPL) contain the same material, the second overcoat layer (OC2) and the light-transmitting layer (TPL) may be considered as a single layer. For example, the second overcoat layer (OC2) and the light-transmitting layer (TPL) may contain the same material and be formed in a form that substantially constitutes a single organic layer or a light-transmitting layer.

[0239] The height of the second patterns (BMP12) can be easily adjusted or optimized by utilizing the light-transmitting layer (TPL). For example, the second patterns (BMP12) can be placed at a desired height by adjusting the thickness of the light-transmitting layer (TPL).

[0240] In one embodiment, a light-transmitting layer (TPL) can be easily formed to a target thickness using an inkjet method (e.g., an inkjet printing method). For example, after flattening the surface by forming a second overcoat layer (OC2), a light-transmitting layer (TPL) can be formed on the second overcoat layer (OC2) using an inkjet method, thereby forming a light-transmitting layer (TPL) having a thickness greater than that of the second overcoat layer (OC2). The light-transmitting layer (TPL) may also be formed by other process methods.

[0241] In one embodiment, the light-transmitting layer (TPL) may have a thickness greater than the thickness of each of the first overcoat layer (OC1), the second overcoat layer (OC2), and the third overcoat layer (OC3). For example, the light-transmitting layer (TPL) may be formed with a thickness of at least twice (for example, at least three times) the thickness of each of the first overcoat layer (OC1), the second overcoat layer (OC2), and / or the third overcoat layer (OC3).

[0242] Accordingly, by ensuring a sufficient distance between the second patterns (BMP12) and the light-emitting elements (ED), the viewing angle of the second pixels (PX2) can be more easily or effectively limited. For example, if other conditions such as the size of the second patterns (BMP12) and the horizontal distance between the second patterns (BMP12) and the light-emitting regions (EA) are the same, if the vertical distance between the light-emitting elements (ED) and the second light-blocking layer (BM2) (for example, the distance or height difference in the third direction (DR3)) increases, the light emission angle of the light emitted from the light-emitting elements (ED) can be more narrowly limited.

[0243] FIGS. 10 to 13 show embodiments in which a second overcoat layer (OC2) and a light-transmitting layer (TPL) are disposed between a first light-blocking layer (BM1) and a second light-blocking layer (BM2) (for example, between a first pattern (BMP11) and a second pattern (BMP12) that overlap each other), but one or more organic layers (or light-transmitting layers) covering the first light-blocking layer (BM1) may be disposed between the first light-blocking layer (BM1) and the second light-blocking layer (BM2). For example, either only one of the second overcoat layer (OC2) and the light-transmitting layer (TPL) may be disposed between the first light-blocking layer (BM1) and the second light-blocking layer (BM2), or the second overcoat layer (OC2) and the light-transmitting layer (TPL) may be substantially integrated into one organic layer, or one or more additional organic layers or light-transmitting layers may be disposed in addition to the second overcoat layer (OC2) and the light-transmitting layer (TPL) between the first light-blocking layer (BM1) and the second light-blocking layer (BM2).

[0244] The second light-blocking layer (BM2) may be disposed on the light-transmitting layer (TPL). The second patterns (BMP12) constituting the second light-blocking layer (BM2) may overlap with a part of the pixel definition layer (PDL) and the light-blocking member (LBM).

[0245] Each of the first patterns (BMP11) and the second patterns (BMP12) may include a light-blocking material (e.g., a light-absorbing material). For example, each of the first patterns (BMP11) and the second patterns (BMP12) may include a light-blocking material such as an inorganic black pigment or an organic black pigment. The inorganic black pigment may be carbon black, and the organic black pigment may include at least one of lactam black, perylene black, and aniline black, but is not limited thereto. Each of the first patterns (BMP11) and the second patterns (BMP12) may also include other light-blocking materials suitable for appropriately absorbing and / or blocking light of a wavelength band emitted from the light-emitting regions (EA).

[0246] In some embodiments, the second patterns (BMP12) may be placed on a portion of the first patterns (BMP11). By overlapping the first patterns (BMP11) and the second patterns (BMP12) at different heights, the lateral light of the second pixels (PX2) can be effectively reduced or blocked.

[0247] For example, the light emission characteristics of the second pixels (PX2) can be controlled more precisely and / or effectively by the first patterns (BMP11) and the second patterns (BMP12). For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 11 and FIGS. 13, the emission angle of the light (L2) emitted from the second light-emitting region (EA2) of the second pixel (PX2) can be limited mainly by the second patterns (BMP12). Additionally, high-angle side light (LL) directed in the lateral direction with a large angle relative to the front direction (for example, the third direction (DR3) corresponding to the thickness direction of the substrate (SUB)) at an angle directed outward from the second patterns (BMP12) can be blocked by the first patterns (BMP11).

[0248] For example, the first patterns (BMP11) may be positioned in a suitable location to block side light that might leak out to the outside of the second patterns (BMP12) when the first patterns (BMP11) are not present. For example, each of the first patterns (BMP11) may be positioned on a path through which side light (LL) directed to the outside of the second pattern (BMP12) surrounding the light-emitting area (EA) passes from a light-emitting element (ED) located in each light-emitting area (EA) of the second pixel (PX2). Although FIGS. 11 and 13 show a cross-section passing through a connection part (BMC in FIG. 9) where the ring patterns of the second pattern (BMP12) are connected, side light (LL) directed to the outside of the second pattern (BMP12) at a location other than the connection part (BMC) may be blocked or reduced by the first pattern (BMP11). Accordingly, the viewing angle of the second pixels (PX2) can be more stably limited.

[0249] The light emission characteristics of the first pixels (PX1) may not be significantly affected by the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1). For example, the size and position of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) can be appropriately adjusted so as not to substantially limit the viewing angle of the first pixels (PX1). For example, the emission angle of light emitted from the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first pixels (PX1) is mainly limited by the light-blocking member (LBM), whereas the emission angle of light emitted from the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixels (PX2) may be limited to a narrower range by the second patterns (BMP12). Accordingly, as illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 12, the emission angle of light (L1) emitted from the second light-emitting region (EA2) of the first pixel (PX1) may be greater than the emission angle of light (L2) emitted from the second light-emitting region (EA2) of the second pixel (PX2).

[0250] In some embodiments, the second patterns (BMP12) may have a narrower width than the first patterns (BMP11). Accordingly, light emitted in a lateral direction from the first pixels (PX1) (for example, high-angle lateral light traveling in a lateral direction with a large angle relative to the front direction among the angles within the viewing angle range of the first display mode) may be prevented or reduced from being blocked by the surrounding second patterns (BMP12).

[0251] The third overcoat layer (OC3) may be placed on the light-transmitting layer (TPL) and the second light-blocking layer (BM2). For example, the third overcoat layer (OC3) may be placed entirely on the light-transmitting layer (TPL) and may cover the second patterns (BMP12). The third overcoat layer (OC3) may be a substantially transparent light-transmitting layer so that light passing through the color filters (CF) can pass through. For example, the third overcoat layer (OC3) may be a light-transmitting organic layer containing a colorless light-transmitting organic material such as an acrylic resin or other polymeric material. The third overcoat layer (OC3) may serve as a flattening layer and / or a protective layer. The third overcoat layer (OC3) may also be referred to as a "fourth organic layer" or a "fourth organic insulating layer."

[0252] FIG. 14 is a plan view showing a part of a display panel corresponding to area A2 of FIG. 4. For example, FIG. 14 shows pixels (PX) and first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) placed in a part of a display area (DA) corresponding to a corner edge portion (EDA2) and a non-display area (NDA) around it.

[0253] Referring to FIG. 14 in addition to FIG. 2 to 13, a plurality of pixels (PX), including outermost pixels (PX), may be arranged in the edge portion (EDA) of a display area (DA) including a corner edge portion (EDA2). The outermost pixels (PX) are pixels (PX) located immediately around the boundary portion (BDA) between the display area (DA) and the non-display area (NDA), and may refer to pixels (PX) located at the outermost edge of the display area (DA) compared to other pixels (PX) of the display area (DA) in at least one of the first direction (DR1), the second direction (DR2), the fourth direction (DR4), and the fifth direction (DR5). In FIG. 14, to distinguish between a display area (DA) where pixels (PX) are placed and a non-display area (NDA) where pixels (PX) are not placed, the approximate boundary line between the display area (DA) and the non-display area (NDA) is shown as the boundary portion (BDA) between the display area (DA) and the non-display area (NDA).

[0254] In some embodiments, at least one of the outermost pixels (PX) may be composed of a partial pixel having a smaller number of light-emitting regions (EA) (or subpixels) compared to other pixels (PX). For example, at least one first partial pixel (PX1') and / or at least one second partial pixel (PX2') may be disposed at the edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA), each having one or more and three or fewer light-emitting regions (EA). The remaining pixels (PX) excluding the partial pixels, for example, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the first pixels (PX1) and the second pixels (PX2), each having a first light-emitting region (EA1), a second light-emitting region (EA2), a third light-emitting region (EA3), and a fourth light-emitting region (EA4), may be regular pixels.

[0255] The first partial pixel (PX1') includes a smaller number of light-emitting regions (EA) compared to the first pixel (PX1) composed of regular pixels, and the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first partial pixel (PX1') may not be substantially surrounded by the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1). For example, the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) surrounding the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixel (PX2) adjacent to the first partial pixel (PX1') may be spaced apart from the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first partial pixel (PX1') by a relatively long distance. Additionally, the first partial pixel (PX1') may be driven in a display mode in which the first pixels (PX1) composed of regular pixels are driven, for example, in the first display mode. The first partial pixel (PX1') may be considered as a type of the first pixels (PX1) and as a configuration included in the first pixels (PX1), but is not limited thereto. When a first pixel (PX1') composed of partial pixels is referred to to distinguish it from other first pixels (PX1) composed of regular pixels, the first pixel (PX1') composed of partial pixels may be referred to as a first partial pixel (PX1') or a fourth pixel (PX1').

[0256] The second partial pixel (PX2') includes fewer light-emitting regions (EA) compared to the second pixel (PX2) composed of regular pixels, and the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second partial pixel (PX2') may be surrounded by a first light-blocking pattern (BMP1). Additionally, the second partial pixel (PX2') may be driven in a display mode in which the second pixels (PX2) composed of regular pixels are driven, for example, in a first display mode and a second display mode. The second partial pixel (PX2') may be considered as a type of the second pixels (PX2) and as a configuration included in the second pixels (PX2), but is not limited thereto. When the second pixel (PX2') composed of partial pixels is referred to to distinguish it from other second pixels (PX2) composed of regular pixels, the second pixel (PX2') composed of partial pixels may be referred to as the second partial pixel (PX2') or the third pixel (PX2').

[0257] In one embodiment, regardless of whether each of the second pixels (PX2) (e.g., the second pixels (PX2) composed of regular pixels and / or at least one second partial pixel (PX2')) is composed of regular pixels or partial pixels, first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) of uniform shape and / or size may be disposed around the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixels (PX2). For example, the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may include an equal number of ring patterns (e.g., four ring patterns forming a unit or set having a shape and size capable of surrounding the first light-emitting region (EA1), second light-emitting region (EA2), third light-emitting region (EA3), and fourth light-emitting region (EA4) of the second pixels (PX2) composed of regular pixels), and may be formed of substantially the same shape and size.

[0258] Each of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) includes at least one opening (BOP1) that overlaps with at least one light-emitting region (EA) and can surround at least one light-emitting region (EA). For example, each of the ring patterns of the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) located in an area where a second pixel (PX2) composed of a regular pixel is placed can surround a corresponding light-emitting region (EA) among the light-emitting regions (EA) included in the second pixel (PX2). As an example, the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) surrounding a plurality of light-emitting regions (EA) included in a second pixel (PX2) composed of a regular pixel may include a plurality of openings that overlap with each of the plurality of light-emitting regions (EA) and may include a plurality of ring patterns surrounding each of the plurality of light-emitting regions (EA).

[0259] A first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) surrounding at least one light-emitting region (EA) among the light-emitting regions (EA) located at the outermost edge of the display region (DA) (for example, outermost light-emitting regions (EA)) may also be referred to as a first outermost light-blocking pattern (BMP1). For example, the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) located in the display region (DA) may include a plurality of first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) surrounding the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second outermost pixels (PX2) at the edge portion (EDA) of the display region (DA).

[0260] Each first outermost light-blocking pattern (BMP1) may be closest to the non-display area (NDA) compared to other first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) in at least one direction (e.g., at least one of the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2)). For example, a plurality of first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may include a first first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) and a last first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) located at the left and right ends of each row of first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) arranged in the first direction (DR1) in the display area (DA), and a first first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) and a last first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) located at the upper and lower ends of each column of first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) arranged in the second direction (DR2) in the display area (DA). Each first outermost light-blocking pattern (BMP1) can surround at least one light-emitting region (EA) included in each second outermost pixel (PX2).

[0261] Ring patterns of the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) located in the area where the second subpixel (PX2') is placed may have only some of the ring patterns surrounding the corresponding light-emitting region (EA) of the second subpixel (PX2'). For example, at least one of the first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may include at least one opening that overlaps with at least one light-emitting region (EA) included in at least one second subpixel (PX2') and may surround said at least one light-emitting region (EA). A portion of said at least one first outermost light-blocking pattern (BMP1) may be located in the non-display area (NDA), but is not limited thereto.

[0262] In some embodiments, the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) of the display area (DA), including the first outermost light-blocking pattern (BMP1) surrounding the light-emitting region (EA) of the second partial pixel (PX2'), may have substantially the same shape and / or size. For example, the first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) surrounding the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixels (PX2) located at the outermost edge of the display area (DA) and the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) surrounding the remaining second pixels (PX2) may have the same shape and size.

[0263] A first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) surrounding the light-emitting regions (EA) of any one second pixel (PX2) composed of regular pixels may include a plurality of openings that overlap with each of the light-emitting regions (EA) of the corresponding second pixel (PX2). On the other hand, a first outermost light-blocking pattern (BMP1) surrounding at least one light-emitting region (EA) included in any one second partial pixel (PX2') may include at least one opening that overlaps with said at least one light-emitting region (EA), and at least one other opening that does not overlap with the light-emitting regions (EA) of the display area (DA).

[0264] The first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may be arranged in at least one direction in the display area (DA). For example, when the second pixels (PX2) are arranged in a first direction (DR1) and a second direction (DR2), the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may be arranged spaced apart from each other in each of the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2).

[0265] In some embodiments, the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may be arranged uniformly over the entire display area (DA). For example, the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may be arranged spaced apart from each other at uniform intervals in each of the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2).

[0266] According to the above-described embodiment, the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixels (PX2) can be uniformly surrounded by the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1). Accordingly, the optical characteristics of the pixels (PX) can be uniformized across the entire display area (DA), including the central region (CDA) and the edge region (EDA) of the display area (DA). By doing so, light leakage and / or color difference that may occur at the outermost edge of the display area (DA) can be suppressed or reduced, and the overall image quality of the display device (10) can be improved.

[0267] FIG. 15 shows an example of a cross-section of a portion of a display panel cut along the X3-X3' and X4-X4' lines of FIG. 14. FIG. 15 shows an example of a cross-section of two pairs of third and fourth light-emitting regions (EA3, EA4) located at different positions. In the fourth light-emitting region (EA4), a fourth light-emitting element (ED4) including a fourth pixel electrode (AE4), a light-emitting layer (EML), and a common electrode (CE) may be disposed.

[0268] Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, the optical properties of a display device (10) can be improved by arranging first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) surrounding the light-emitting regions (EA) of second partial pixels (PX2') along with the light-emitting regions (EA) of second pixels (PX2) composed of regular pixels. In FIG. 15, the arrows pointing upward from the center of each light-emitting element (ED) roughly illustrate the direction or path of light emitted from the light-emitting elements (ED).

[0269] However, at least one pixel (PX) among the outermost pixels (PX) may have light emission characteristics different from the light emission characteristics of other pixels (PX) of the corresponding type. In describing the embodiments, the term light emission characteristics may include spectral characteristics, luminance or luminance distribution, viewing angle characteristics and / or light quantity distribution by angle, etc.

[0270] For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 15, a first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) may not be placed in the vicinity of the third light-emitting region (EA3) of a first pixel (PX1) located at the outermost edge of the display area (DA) in the fifth direction (DR5), whereas a first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) may be placed in the vicinity of the third light-emitting region (EA3) of another first pixel (PX1), surrounding the light-emitting regions (EA) of a second pixel (PX2) adjacent to the vicinity of the fifth direction (DR5). Accordingly, as illustrated in FIG. 15, high-angle side light (LL1) advancing in an azimuth direction corresponding to the fifth direction (DR5) from the third light-emitting region (EA3) of another first pixel (PX1) (e.g., high-angle side light advancing toward the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) that advancing toward the fifth direction (DR5) or a direction close to the fifth direction (DR5) and surrounding the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixel (PX2) adjacent to the fifth direction (DR5)) can be blocked or reduced by the surrounding first light-blocking pattern (BMP1). On the other hand, high-angle side light (LL1') emitted in an azimuth direction corresponding to the fifth direction (DR5) from the third light-emitting area (EA3) of the first pixel (PX1) located at the outermost edge of the display area (DA) in the fifth direction (DR5) may not encounter a light-blocking structure such as the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1), and accordingly may leak out to the outside of the display panel (100).

[0271] Although FIGS. 14 and 15 describe light leakage occurring in one corner edge (EDA2) including the A2 area of ​​FIG. 4, high-angle side light may leak from at least some pixels (PX) located at the outermost edge of the display area (DA) at other corner edges (EDA2) and / or side edges (EDA1) for similar reasons. This leakage light may cause a difference in luminance between pixels (PX). Additionally, if side light leaks unevenly from light-emitting regions (EA) that emit light of different colors, leakage light of a specific color (e.g., pink or green) may be visible. Accordingly, light leakage and / or color difference may occur at the outermost boundary (BDA) of the display area (DA) (e.g., the border of the display area (DA) or its vicinity).

[0272] FIG. 16 is a plan view showing a part of a display panel corresponding to area A2 of FIG. 4. FIG. 17 is a plan view showing a part of a display panel corresponding to area A3 of FIG. 4. For example, FIG. 16 shows pixels (PX), first light-blocking patterns (BMP1), and second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) placed in a part of a display area (DA) corresponding to a corner edge portion (EDA2) (e.g., top left edge portion) and a surrounding non-display area (NDA), and FIG. 17 shows pixels (PX), first light-blocking patterns (BMP1), and second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) placed in a part of a display area (DA) corresponding to a corner edge portion (EDA2) (e.g., bottom left edge portion) and a side edge portion (EDA1) connected thereto (e.g., bottom edge portion), and a surrounding non-display area (NDA).

[0273] FIG. 18 shows an example of a cross-section of a portion of a display panel cut along the X5-X5' and X6-X6' lines of FIG. 16. Compared to FIG. 14 and FIG. 15, FIG. 16 through FIG. 18 show a display panel (100) further comprising second light-blocking patterns (BMP2).

[0274] Referring to FIGS. 16 through 18 in addition to FIGS. 2 through 15, the display panel (100) may further include second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) located in a non-display area (NDA). For example, the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be located in the non-display area (NDA) immediately around the boundary portion (BDA) between the display area (DA) and the non-display area (NDA). The second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be disposed on a portion of the pixel definition layer (PDL) and the light-blocking member (LBM).

[0275] One unit or one set or more of second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be disposed on the outer side of at least some of the first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) located at each edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA) (for example, the first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) that are located across the boundary portion (BDA) between the display area (DA) and the non-display area (NDA), or located immediately inside the boundary portion (BDA). For example, the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be disposed adjacent to the first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and in a direction toward the non-display area (NDA) from the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1).

[0276] The first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) are the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) located at the outermost edge of the display area (DA) among the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) (for example, the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) located in the direction of the display area (DA) from the boundary portion (BDA) between the display area (DA) and the non-display area (NDA), and arranged approximately along the periphery direction of the display area (DA)), and can surround at least some of the outermost light-emitting regions (EA) located at the edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA). For example, the first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) can surround the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second outermost pixels (PX2) among the outermost pixels (PX). Additionally, each of the first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) can surround one or more light-emitting regions (EA).

[0277] In one embodiment, the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) are arranged in a first direction (DR1) and a second direction (DR2) in a display area (DA), and at least one second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may be disposed on the outer side of each of the first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) in at least one of the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2). For example, in the direction from one of the first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) to the non-display area (NDA), at least one second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may be disposed spaced apart from said one first outermost light-blocking pattern (BMP1).

[0278] In one embodiment, the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be separated from each other and formed as individual patterns. For example, the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be formed as individual patterns having substantially the same or similar shape as the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1).

[0279] However, the shape or structure of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) is not limited thereto. For example, at least some of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be connected to each other through a narrow connection (for example, an integral connection connecting the adjacent second light-blocking patterns (BMP2), having a line shape extending in the first direction (DR1) and / or the second direction (DR2) between adjacent second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) in the first direction (DR1) and / or the second direction (DR2)). In this case, a portion of the light-blocking structure of the non-display area (NDA) corresponding to the size and / or shape of each first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) may be defined as each second light-blocking pattern (BMP2). If all of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) of the non-display area (NDA) are connected in succession, the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may substantially form a single continuous pattern (or at least one light-blocking layer). In this case, the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be different parts of the continuous pattern (or at least one light-blocking layer).

[0280] In one embodiment, at least one of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may have the same shape as at least one first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) among the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) (for example, at least one first outermost light-blocking pattern (BMP1)) when viewed in a planar view. For example, at least one of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may include at least one ring pattern and at least one opening (BOP2) surrounded by said at least one ring pattern. The opening (BOP2) included in the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may be spaced apart from the light-emitting regions (EA) of the display area (DA).

[0281] In one embodiment, the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be formed in substantially the same shape and / or size. For example, the shape of each of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the shape of each of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be substantially the same, and / or the size of each of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the size of each of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be substantially the same. In this case, the optical properties of the display device (10) can be further homogenized and / or optimized.

[0282] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and at least a portion of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) are disposed on the same layer on the substrate (SUB) and may contain the same material. In one embodiment, the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) are formed in the same process as the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and may have a cross-sectional structure corresponding to the cross-sectional structure of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1). For example, each of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may include a third pattern (BMP21) forming a lower pattern and a fourth pattern (BMP22) forming an upper pattern. As illustrated in FIG. 18, the fourth pattern (BMP22) may overlap with the third pattern (BMP21) on the third pattern (BMP21) (for example, overlapped in a third direction (DR3)).

[0283] The third patterns (BMP21) of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) can form the first light-blocking layer (BM1) together with the first patterns (BMP11) of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1). For example, the first patterns (BMP11) and the third patterns (BMP21) may be spaced apart from each other and placed on top of the pixel definition layer (PDL) and the first overcoat layer (OC1), etc., so as to overlap with different parts of the pixel definition layer (PDL). The first patterns (BMP11) and the third patterns (BMP21) may include the same material (for example, the same light-absorbing material).

[0284] The fourth patterns (BMP22) of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) can form a second light-blocking layer (BM2) together with the second patterns (BMP12) of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1). For example, the second patterns (BMP12) and the fourth patterns (BMP22) may be spaced apart from each other on a light-transmitting layer (TPL) (or a second overcoat layer (OC2)). The second patterns (BMP12) and the fourth patterns (BMP22) may include the same material (for example, the same light-absorbing material).

[0285] When a plurality of second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) are connected to each other, the third patterns (BMP21) of the plurality of second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be formed into a single continuous pattern to form a part of the first light-blocking layer (BM1), and / or the fourth patterns (BMP22) of the plurality of second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be formed into a single continuous pattern to form a part of the second light-blocking layer (BM2).

[0286] If the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) have the same cross-sectional structure, the optical characteristics of the display device (10) can be further uniformized and / or optimized. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, at least one of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may include only one of the third pattern (BMP21) and the fourth pattern (BMP22). In this case, light leakage that may occur at the edge (EDA) of the display area (DA) or its vicinity can be reduced and the optical characteristics of the display device (10) can be improved compared to the case where the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) are not included.

[0287] The second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be arranged in a non-display area (NDA) in a manner that partially or entirely surrounds the display area (DA). For example, the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be arranged outside the display area (DA) along the edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA) in at least some sections in a manner that partially or entirely surrounds the edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA). As an example, the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be arranged outside the outermost light-emitting areas (EA) along the edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA) to form a light-blocking pattern array.

[0288] In one embodiment, at least one second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may be disposed in the direction toward the non-display area (NDA) from each of the first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) located at the edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA) among the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1). For example, the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be arranged outside the display area (DA) along the edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA) over the entire section in a manner that completely surrounds the edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA). Additionally, the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be arranged at a pitch corresponding to the arrangement pitch of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) in each of the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2).

[0289] In some embodiments, the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be arranged in at least one direction. For example, the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may be arranged in the display area (DA) in a first direction (DR1) and a second direction (DR2). Additionally, any one of the first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) located at one end of the display area (DA) in the first direction (DR1) among the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1), and at least one of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be arranged in the first direction (DR1). Additionally, any one of the first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) located at one end of the display area (DA) in the second direction (DR2), and at least one of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be arranged in the second direction (DR2).

[0290] The first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be arranged at a uniform pitch or spacing in at least one direction, or at different pitches or spacings. For example, the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be arranged at a uniform pitch or spacing in each of the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2), or at different pitches or spacings in one of the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2).

[0291] In one embodiment, the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be arranged at a uniform pitch or spacing (e.g., the same pitch or same spacing) in each of the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2). For example, in the part where the edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA) extends in the first direction (DR1) (e.g., the upper end and the lower end of the display area (DA)) and the surrounding area, the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may each be arranged at a uniform spacing along the first direction (DR1), and at least one first outermost light-blocking pattern (BMP1) and at least one second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may be adjacent to each other in the second direction (DR2). Similarly, in the part where the edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA) extends into the second direction (DR2) (for example, the left and right ends of the display area (DA)) and the surrounding area, each of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) is arranged at uniform intervals along the second direction (DR2), and at least one first outermost light-blocking pattern (BMP1) and at least one second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may be adjacent to each other in the first direction (DR1).

[0292] When light-blocking patterns including first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) are arranged at uniform intervals in the first direction (DR1), the distance in the first direction (DR1) between the two first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) closest to each other in the first direction (DR1) (e.g., d1 in FIG. 16) may be the same as the distance in the first direction (DR1) between the pair of first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) closest to each other in the first direction (DR1) located at or around the boundary (BDA) of the display area (DA) and the non-display area (NDA) (e.g., dm in FIG. 16). Similarly, when the shading patterns including the first shading patterns (BMP1) and the second shading patterns (BMP2) are arranged at uniform intervals in the second direction (DR2), the distance in the second direction (DR2) between the two first shading patterns (BMP1) closest to each other in the second direction (DR2) among the first shading patterns (BMP1) may be the same as the distance in the second direction (DR2) between the first outermost shading pattern (BMP1) and the second shading pattern (BMP2) closest to each other in the second direction (DR2).

[0293] However, the distance between the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) is not limited to this. For example, within the range in which light leakage of the display device (10) can be improved by the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2), the distance between a pair of adjacent first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) in one direction may be different from the distance between the two closest first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) in said one direction, and / or the distance between the two closest second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) in said one direction.

[0294] In some embodiments, the minimum separation distance between the closest pair of first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) in one direction (for example, one of the first direction (DR1) and second direction (DR2) in which the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) are arranged) may be less than or equal to the distance corresponding to the arrangement period of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) in said one direction. Accordingly, light leakage of the display device (10) can be effectively reduced or prevented.

[0295] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 16, the minimum separation distance (dm) between a pair of adjacent first outermost shading patterns (BMP1) and second shading patterns (BMP2) in a first direction (DR1) (for example, the separation distance in the first direction (DR1)) may be less than or equal to the maximum length (Lbm) of the first outermost shading pattern (BMP1) in one direction (for example, the length of the first outermost shading pattern (BMP1) in the first direction (DR1). For example, the separation distance (dm) in the first direction (DR1) between the closest first outermost shading pattern (BMP1) and second shading pattern (BMP2) in the first direction (DR1) may be less than or equal to the length (Lbm) of the first outermost shading pattern (BMP1) in the first direction (DR1). Accordingly, side light leaking out from the display area (DA) toward the non-display area (NDA) can be appropriately reduced or blocked, and light leakage of the display device (10) can be improved.

[0296] In one embodiment, the minimum spacing distance between a pair of adjacent first outermost shading patterns (BMP1) and second shading patterns (BMP2) may be less than or equal to the maximum length of the first outermost shading pattern (BMP1) in the direction in which the pair of first outermost shading patterns (BMP1) and second shading patterns (BMP2) are arranged (for example, in the direction in which the pair of first outermost shading patterns (BMP1) and second shading patterns (BMP2) are adjacent). In this case, the pair of first outermost shading patterns (BMP1) and second shading patterns (BMP2) may be adjacent to each other with a spacing distance smaller than the distance corresponding to the arrangement period of the first shading patterns (BMP1), based on the direction in which the pair of first outermost shading patterns (BMP1) and second shading patterns (BMP2) are arranged.

[0297] However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the minimum separation distance between a pair of adjacent first outermost shading patterns (BMP1) and second shading patterns (BMP2) may be less than or equal to the maximum length of the first outermost shading pattern (BMP1), regardless of the direction in which the pair of first outermost shading patterns (BMP1) and second shading patterns (BMP2) are arranged. For example, the first outermost shading pattern (BMP1) has a maximum length in a direction other than the first direction (DR1) (e.g., one of the second direction (DR2), the fourth direction (DR4), and the fifth direction (DR5)), and the minimum separation distance (e.g., the distance in the first direction (DR1)) between a pair of first outermost shading patterns (BMP1) and second shading patterns (BMP2) adjacent to each other in the first direction (DR1) may be less than or equal to the maximum length in the other direction of the first outermost shading pattern (BMP1).

[0298] As described above, a pair of first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) arranged in one direction may be placed adjacent to each other with a spacing less than or equal to the maximum length of the first outermost light-blocking pattern (BMP1) (e.g., Lbm in FIG. 16). Accordingly, light leakage of the display device (10) can be improved.

[0299] FIGS. 16 to 18 show an embodiment in which at least one second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) is disposed on the outside of each of the first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) in at least one of the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2), but the arrangement period or spacing of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) in the first direction (DR1) and / or the second direction (DR2) may vary depending on the embodiment. For example, in another embodiment, at least one second shading pattern (BMP2) (e.g., at least one second shading pattern (BMP2) adjacent to the first outermost shading patterns (BMP1) in the first direction (DR1) and / or the second direction (DR2)) may be disposed only for some of the first outermost shading patterns (BMP1) located at the edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA), in a direction toward the non-display area (NDA) from each of the first outermost shading patterns (BMP1). For example, the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be arranged along the edge (EDA) of the display area (DA) in a manner that partially and / or intermittently surrounds the edge (EDA) of the display area (DA) and extend outward from the display area (DA) in some sections (for example, outward from the outermost light-emitting areas (EA).

[0300] When the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) completely surround the edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA) and are arranged at a pitch corresponding to the arrangement pitch of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) in each of the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2), the optical characteristics of the display device (10) can be made more uniform and / or optimized. Even when the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) partially and / or intermittently surround the edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA), light leakage that may occur at the edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA) or its vicinity can be reduced and the optical characteristics of the display device (10) can be improved compared to the case where the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) are not included.

[0301] At least a portion of each of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be located in the non-display area (NDA). Accordingly, the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may form a light-blocking structure of the non-display area (NDA).

[0302] Additionally, as in the previously described embodiment, regardless of whether each of the second pixels (PX2) is composed of regular pixels or partial pixels, first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) of a uniform shape and / or size may be disposed around the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixels (PX2). For example, each of the first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) may include four openings arranged in a diamond shape and may surround at least one light-emitting region (EA) included in the corresponding second pixel (PX2). Although FIG. 17 illustrates an embodiment in which the second outermost pixels (PX2) located at the outermost edge of the side edge portion (EDA1) are composed of regular pixels, the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the second outermost pixels (PX2) located at at least one side edge portion (EDA1) may be second partial pixels (PX2') each comprising one or more and three or fewer light-emitting regions (EA). In this case as well, the first outermost shading patterns (BMP1) located at the at least one side edge (EDA1) may have the same shape as the other first shading patterns (BMP1) and may include four openings (BOP1).

[0303] The first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) can be arranged uniformly over the entire area. For example, the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) have substantially the same shape and size as each other and can be arranged at uniform intervals in at least one direction.

[0304] For example, light-blocking patterns including first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be arranged at regular intervals in each of the first direction (DR1), second direction (DR2), fourth direction (DR4), and fifth direction (DR5). In this case, the spacing between two adjacent patterns among the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) in a specific direction (for example, one of the first direction (DR1), second direction (DR2), fourth direction (DR4), and fifth direction (DR5)) may be substantially the same. For example, the distance between a pair of first outermost shading patterns (BMP1) and second shading patterns (BMP2) adjacent to each other in one direction (for example, first direction (DR1) or second direction (DR2)) among the first outermost shading patterns (BMP1) and second shading patterns (BMP2) in said one direction may be the same as the distance between the two first shading patterns (BMP1) closest to each other in said one direction among the first shading patterns (BMP1).

[0305] Accordingly, the light-emitting regions (EA) of a first pixel (PX1) located at the outermost edge of the display area (DA) (for example, a first outermost pixel (PX1) or a first partial pixel (PX1') composed of regular pixels) can be uniformly surrounded in the same form as the light-emitting regions (EA) of a first pixel (PX1) located at another location (for example, a first pixel (PX1) located at the central part (CDA) of the display area (DA)) by at least one first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) and at least one second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) located nearby. Additionally, the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixel (PX2) located at the outermost edge of the display area (DA) (for example, the second outermost pixel (PX2) or the second partial pixel (PX2') composed of regular pixels) can be uniformly surrounded by each first outermost light-blocking pattern (BMP1) in the same form as the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixel (PX2) located at another location (for example, the second pixel (PX2) located in the central part (CDA).

[0306] According to the above-described embodiment, a light-blocking structure including first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) can equalize the interference effect on the light-emitting characteristics of pixels (PX). For example, across the entire display area (DA), the light-blocking structure can have substantially the same effect on pixels of the same type (e.g., first pixels (PX1) or second pixels (PX2)). Accordingly, the optical characteristics (e.g., light-emitting characteristics including luminance characteristics and viewing angle characteristics) of the outermost pixels (PX) and other pixels (PX) (e.g., pixels (PX) located in the central part (CDA)) can be further equalized, and light leakage or color difference that may occur at the outermost edge of the display area (DA) can be improved.

[0307] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 18, high-angle side light emitted in various azimuth directions from the third light-emitting region (EA3) of each of all first pixels (PX1) (e.g., high-angle side light emitted in the fifth direction (DR5) (LL1, LL1')) can be blocked or reduced by the surrounding first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) and / or second light-blocking pattern (BMP2). Accordingly, the first pixels (PX1) of the display area (DA), including the first pixels (PX1) located in the central part (CDA) and the first pixels (PX1) located at the outermost part, can have more uniform light-emitting characteristics overall.

[0308] In some embodiments, the light-blocking structure including the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be arranged in a uniform spacing, direction, and / or shape. For example, the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may have substantially the same shape and size as each of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may include openings (BOP2) corresponding to the openings (BOP1) of each of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1). For example, the openings (BOP2) formed in each of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may have substantially the same shape, size, number, and / or arrangement as the shape, size, number, and / or arrangement of the openings (BOP1) formed in each of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1). However, the shape of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) is not limited thereto, and at least one second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may be formed as a partial pattern having a shape and / or size corresponding to a part of each of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1).

[0309] In one embodiment, each of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may include a third pattern (BMP21) corresponding to the first pattern (BMP11) of each of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1), and a fourth pattern (BMP22) corresponding to the second pattern (BMP12) of each of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1). However, the embodiments are not limited thereto, and at least one second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may include only one of the third pattern (BMP21) and the fourth pattern (BMP22).

[0310] In one embodiment, the first pattern (BMP11) and the third pattern (BMP21) may have substantially the same shape and size as each other, and the second pattern (BMP12) and the fourth pattern (BMP22) may have substantially the same shape and size as each other. For example, if the first pattern (BMP11) includes ring patterns surrounding each of the light-emitting regions (EA) of the corresponding second pixel (PX2), the third pattern (BMP21) may include ring patterns of a shape and size corresponding to the ring patterns of the first pattern (BMP11). Additionally, if the second pattern (BMP12) includes ring patterns surrounding each of the light-emitting regions (EA) of the corresponding second pixel (PX2), the fourth pattern (BMP22) may include ring patterns of a shape and size corresponding to the ring patterns of the second pattern (BMP12).

[0311] Accordingly, differences in optical characteristics between pixels (PX) depending on their location can be more effectively prevented or reduced, and the light emission characteristics of the pixels (PX) can be further uniformized across the entire display area (DA). For example, the light emission characteristics of each light-emitting region (EA) of a first pixel (PX1) located in the central part (CDA) of the display area (DA) may be substantially the same as the light emission characteristics of the corresponding light-emitting region (EA) of the first pixel (PX1) located at the outermost edge part (EDA) of the display area (DA). Additionally, the light emission characteristics of each light-emitting region (EA) of a second pixel (PX2) located in the central part (CDA) of the display area (DA) may be substantially the same as the light emission characteristics of the corresponding light-emitting region (EA) of the second pixel (PX2) located at the outermost edge part (EDA) of the display area (DA). Accordingly, the light emission characteristics of all pixels (PX), including the outermost pixels (PX), can be further uniformized, and light leakage or color difference that may occur at the outermost edges of the display area (DA) can be more effectively prevented.

[0312] FIG. 19 is a plan view showing a portion of a display panel corresponding to the A4 area of ​​FIG. 4. For example, FIG. 19 shows a portion of a display area (DA) corresponding to an inner edge portion (EDA3), and pixels (PX), first light-blocking patterns (BMP1), and second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) placed in a non-display light-transmitting area (OPA) and an intermediate area (IBA) around it. The non-display light-transmitting area (OPA) and the intermediate area (IBA) may be a non-display area (NDA) where pixels (PX) are not placed.

[0313] Referring to FIG. 19 in addition to FIG. 2 through 18, second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may also be disposed between the inner edge portion (EDA3) of the display area (DA) and the non-display light-transmitting area (OPA). For example, the display panel (100) may further include second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) located immediately around the boundary portion (BDA) of the inner edge portion (EDA3) in the intermediate area (IBA) that contacts the inner edge portion (EDA3) at the boundary portion (BDA) of the inner edge portion (EDA3). For example, one unit or one set or more of second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) may be disposed on the outer side of each of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) that span the boundary portion (BDA) of the inner edge portion (EDA3) or are located immediately around the boundary portion (BDA) of the inner edge portion (EDA3). Second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) located in a part of the non-display area (NDA) that contacts the outer edge portion (EDA1, EDA2) of the display area (DA) constitute part of the light-blocking structure of the non-display area (NDA), and second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) located between the inner edge portion (EDA3) of the display area (DA) and the non-display light-transmitting area (OPA) may constitute another part of the light-blocking structure of the non-display area (NDA).

[0314] Additionally, as in the embodiment described above, regardless of whether each of the second pixels (PX2) is composed of regular pixels or partial pixels, first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) of uniform shape and / or size may be disposed around the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixels (PX2). For example, each of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) that spans the boundary portion (BDA) of the inner edge portion (EDA3) or is located immediately around the boundary portion (BDA) of the inner edge portion (EDA3) may include four openings (BOP1) arranged in a diamond shape and may surround at least one light-emitting region (EA) contained in the corresponding second pixel (PX2).

[0315] Accordingly, the optical characteristics of pixels (PX) located at the inner edge portion (EDA3) of the display area (DA) and other pixels (PX) (for example, pixels (PX) located at the central portion (CDA)) can be homogenized. Accordingly, light leakage or color difference can be suppressed or reduced at the inner edge portion (EDA3) of the display area (DA) or around it.

[0316] FIG. 20 is a plan view showing a first light-blocking pattern and a second light-blocking pattern according to one embodiment. For example, FIG. 20 shows an enlarged view of a first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) and a second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) placed in a display area (DA) and a non-display area (NDA), respectively, as a light-blocking structure placed within a display panel (100) according to the embodiments described above.

[0317] Referring to FIG. 20 in addition to FIG. 2 through 19, the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) and the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may have substantially the same shape and size. For example, the first pattern (BMP11) and the third pattern (BMP21) may have substantially the same shape and size, and the second pattern (BMP12) and the fourth pattern (BMP22) may have substantially the same shape and size. Additionally, the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may include openings (BOP2) corresponding to the openings (BOP1) of the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1).

[0318] According to the above-described embodiment, the light-blocking structure located around all pixels (PX), including the outermost pixels (PX), can be uniformized. For example, the light-blocking structure formed around the light-emitting regions (EA) of the pixels (PX) by the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) in the central part (CDA) of the display area (DA), and the light-blocking structure formed around the light-emitting regions (EA) of the pixels (PX) (e.g., the outermost pixels (PX)) by the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) in the edge part (EDA) of the display area (DA) and its vicinity, may be substantially the same. Accordingly, the optical characteristics of the pixels (PX) can be further uniformized.

[0319] In some embodiments, the light-blocking patterns, including the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) of the display area (DA) and the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) of the non-display area (NDA), may have the same shape and size as a whole. In this case, the optical properties of the display device (10) can be improved or optimized more effectively.

[0320] However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, at least two types of first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) having different shapes and / or sizes may be disposed in a display area (DA), and / or at least two types of second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) having different shapes and / or sizes may be disposed in a non-display area (NDA). In this case, at least one first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) and at least one second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may have corresponding shapes and sizes. For example, a pair of first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) adjacent in one direction may have the same shape when viewed in a plane. Additionally, the lengths of each of the pair of first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) adjacent in one direction in said one direction may be substantially the same. Accordingly, the optical characteristics of the display device (10) can be improved.

[0321] FIGS. 21 to 28 are plan views showing a first light-blocking pattern and a second light-blocking pattern according to each embodiment. For example, FIGS. 21 to 28 show embodiments different from the embodiment of FIG. 20 with respect to the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2).

[0322] Referring to FIGS. 21 through 28, the size or shape of the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may vary according to the embodiments. For example, at least one part of the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may have a shape and / or size different from the corresponding part of the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1).

[0323] Referring to FIG. 21, the third pattern (BMP21) may have a greater width by extending in at least one of the inner direction and the outer direction compared to the first pattern (BMP11). FIG. 21 shows an embodiment in which the third pattern (BMP21) is extended in both the inner direction and the outer direction, but the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the third pattern (BMP21) may be extended in only one of the inner direction and the outer direction.

[0324] If the third pattern (BMP21) is extended inward, the size of the openings (BOP2) of the third pattern (BMP21) may be reduced. If the third pattern (BMP21) is extended outward, the size of the outer perimeter of the third pattern (BMP21) may be increased.

[0325] Referring to FIG. 22, the fourth pattern (BMP22) may have a greater width by extending in at least one of the inner direction and the outer direction compared to the second pattern (BMP12). FIG. 22 shows an embodiment in which the fourth pattern (BMP22) is extended in both the inner direction and the outer direction, but the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the fourth pattern (BMP22) may be extended in only one of the inner direction and the outer direction.

[0326] If the fourth pattern (BMP22) is extended inward, the size of the openings (BOP2) of the fourth pattern (BMP22) may be reduced. If the fourth pattern (BMP22) is extended outward, the size of the outer perimeter of the fourth pattern (BMP22) may be increased.

[0327] Referring to FIG. 23, the third pattern (BMP21) can have a larger width by being extended in at least one of the inner and outer directions compared to the first pattern (BMP11). Additionally, the fourth pattern (BMP22) can have a larger width by being extended in at least one of the inner and outer directions compared to the second pattern (BMP12). Accordingly, the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) can have an expanded size compared to the size of the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1).

[0328] Referring to FIG. 24, the third pattern (BMP21) may not include an opening corresponding to at least one of the openings (BOP1) of the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1). For example, the third pattern (BMP21) may be a solid pattern with a filled interior that does not include an opening or empty space within a plane. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the third pattern (BMP21) may include openings (for example, some of the openings (BOP2) of FIG. 20) of a different number and / or shape than the openings (BOP1) of the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1).

[0329] Referring to FIG. 25, the fourth pattern (BMP22) may not include an opening corresponding to at least one of the openings (BOP1) of the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1). For example, the fourth pattern (BMP22) may be a solid pattern with a filled interior that does not include an opening or empty space within a plane. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the fourth pattern (BMP22) may include openings (for example, some of the openings (BOP2) of FIG. 20) of a different number and / or shape than the openings (BOP1) of the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1).

[0330] Referring to FIG. 26, each of the third pattern (BMP21) and the fourth pattern (BMP22) may not define an opening corresponding to at least one of the openings (BOP1) of the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1). For example, each of the third pattern (BMP21) and the fourth pattern (BMP22) may be a solid pattern that does not contain an opening or empty space within a plane. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, each of the third pattern (BMP21) and the fourth pattern (BMP22) may include openings (for example, some of the openings (BOP2) of FIG. 20) of a different number and / or shape than the openings (BOP1) of the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1).

[0331] In some embodiments, at least one second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may be formed as a partial pattern. Additionally, at least one second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may have a size smaller than or equal to the size of at least one first light-blocking pattern (BMP1). For example, at least one second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may be formed as a partial pattern corresponding to a part of the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) according to any one of the embodiments disclosed in FIGS. 20 to 26, and may have a size smaller than that of any one first light-blocking pattern (BMP1). For example, as shown in FIGS. 27 and 28, at least one second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may be formed as a partial pattern corresponding to a part of the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) according to the embodiment of FIG. 20 (for example, a part at a location closer to the display area (DA)).

[0332] Referring to FIGS. 27 and 28, the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may have a shape corresponding to a part of the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1). For example, when viewed in a planar view, the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may be formed as a partial pattern having a shape corresponding to a part of the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) (for example, the first outermost light-blocking pattern (BMP1)) adjacent to the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2).

[0333] Additionally, the size of the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may be smaller than the size of the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1). For example, the length of the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) in one direction may be smaller than the length of the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) (e.g., the first outermost light-blocking pattern (BMP1)) adjacent to the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) in said one direction in said one direction.

[0334] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 27, the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) may include a plurality of ring patterns, and the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may include one or more ring patterns. Additionally, the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may include fewer ring patterns than the number of ring patterns included in the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1).

[0335] As illustrated in FIG. 28, the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may include one or more partial ring patterns. The partial ring pattern may be a pattern in the form of including only a part of any one ring pattern.

[0336] As described above, the display panel (100) may include a second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) of various shapes and sizes. Additionally, while FIGS. 20 to 28 disclose embodiments in which the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) has a structure, shape, and / or size corresponding to the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1), the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the size or shape of the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may be varied according to the embodiments within a range that can maintain the optical characteristics of the pixels (PX) uniformly. Furthermore, the display panel (100) may include at least two types of second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) of different shapes and / or sizes. For example, the display panel (100) may include at least one second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) having a shape and / or size according to one embodiment of FIGS. 20 to 28, and at least one second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) having a shape and / or size according to another embodiment of FIGS. 20 to 28. Additionally, the at least one second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may include only one of a third pattern (BMP21) and a fourth pattern (BMP22).

[0337] Additionally, in the embodiments of FIGS. 5 to 28, first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) formed as individual patterns corresponding to a separated light-blocking structure are disclosed as a light-blocking structure that can be included in the light control layer (BMPL), but the type or form of the light-blocking structure is not limited thereto. For example, at least one of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) or a part thereof may be formed as an integrated light-blocking structure (for example, a continuous light-blocking layer).

[0338] FIGS. 29 to 31 are plan views showing parts of a display panel according to each embodiment. For example, FIGS. 29 to 31 show pixels (PX), a first light-blocking layer (BM1), and a second light-blocking layer (BM2) disposed in a part of a display area (DA) corresponding to the A2 area of ​​FIG. 4. Compared to FIG. 16, FIGS. 29 to 31 show embodiments in which the first patterns (BMP11) of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the third patterns (BMP21) of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) are formed as a single continuous pattern, and / or the second patterns (BMP12) of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the fourth patterns (BMP22) of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) are formed as a single continuous pattern.

[0339] Referring to FIGS. 29 through 31 in addition to FIGS. 4 through 28, the size or shape of at least one light-blocking layer including a first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) and a second light-blocking pattern (BMP2), or a portion thereof, may be varied according to the embodiments. For example, at least a portion of the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) and the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) may not be formed as separate individual patterns but may be formed as an integral light-blocking structure and may include or define respective openings (BOP1, BOP1', BOP2, BOP2').

[0340] For example, a portion of a first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) and a portion of a second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) disposed on the same layer on a substrate (SUB) are integrally formed in a display area (DA) and a non-display area (NDA) to form a continuous light-blocking layer, and may include a plurality of openings. For example, the continuous light-blocking layer may include a plurality of first openings (BOP1, BOP1') located in the display area (DA) and overlapping with each of the light-emitting areas (EA) of pixels (PX), and a plurality of second openings (BOP2, BOP2') located in the non-display area (NDA) and spaced apart from the light-emitting areas (EA) of pixels (PX) and the first openings (BOP1, BOP1') of the light-blocking layer.

[0341] Accordingly, the display panel (100) may include at least one light-blocking layer disposed in a portion of a display area (DA) and a non-display area (NDA) adjacent to the display area (DA) (for example, a first light-blocking layer (BM1) and / or a second light-blocking layer (BM2) formed continuously in the display area (DA) and the non-display area (NDA). Additionally, the at least one light-blocking layer may include a plurality of first openings (BOP1, BOP1') overlapping with light-emitting areas (EA) of the display area (DA), and a plurality of second openings (BOP2, BOP2') located in the non-display area (DA) spaced apart from the light-emitting areas (EA) and the first openings (BOP1, BOP1') of the display area (DA). For example, at least one second opening (BOP2, BOP2') may be disposed in the direction toward the non-display area (NDA) from the first opening (BOP1, BOP1') (also referred to as "first outermost openings") which is closest to the non-display area (NDA) in at least one direction among the first openings (BOP1, BOP1'). As an example, the first openings (BOP1, BOP1') may include one first outermost opening (BOP1 or BOP1') that overlaps with the outermost light-emitting area (EA) closest to the non-display area (NDA) in one direction among the light-emitting areas (EA), and the second openings (BOP2, BOP2') may include at least one second opening (BOP2 or BOP2') adjacent to the one first outermost opening (BOP1 or BOP1') in the said direction.

[0342] Each of the second openings (BOP2, BOP2') may span the boundary portion (BDA) between the display area (DA) and the non-display area (NDA) or be located in the non-display area (NDA). For example, the second openings (BOP2, BOP2') may be arranged along the periphery direction of the display area (DA) in at least some sections and may be positioned in a direction from the outermost light-emitting areas (EA) toward the non-display area (NDA). In this case, the second openings (BOP2, BOP2') may be spaced apart from each other around the edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA) in a manner that partially or wholly surrounds the edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA), and at least some of the second openings (BOP2, BOP2') may be located in the non-display area (NDA).

[0343] In one embodiment, the first openings (BOP1, BOP1') may include first-1 openings (BOP1') and first-2 openings (BOP1) disposed in different structural unit regions. For example, the first-1 openings (BOP1') are located in first pixel regions that include at least one light-emitting region (EA) included in each of the first pixels (PX1), and each of the first-1 openings (BOP1') may overlap with any one light-emitting region (EA) included in the corresponding first pixel (PX1). For example, each of the first-1 openings (BOP1') may overlap with a corresponding light-emitting region (EA) among the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first pixels (PX1). The first and second openings (BOP1) are located in second pixel regions that include at least one light-emitting region (EA) included in each of the second pixels (PX2), and each of the first and second openings (BOP1) may overlap with any one light-emitting region (EA) included in the corresponding second pixel (PX2). For example, each of the first and second openings (BOP1) may overlap with a corresponding light-emitting region (EA) among the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixels (PX2).

[0344] In one embodiment, the first-1 openings (BOP1') and the first-2 openings (BOP1) may have different sizes in the portions that overlap with light-emitting regions (EA) emitting the same type of light. For example, the size of one first-1 opening (BOP1') that overlaps with the first light-emitting region (EA1) included in one first pixel (PX1) of the first-1 openings (BOP1') may be different from the size of one first-2 opening (BOP1) that overlaps with the first light-emitting region (EA1) included in one second pixel (PX2) of the first-2 openings (BOP1). For example, the size of the one first-1 opening (BOP1') may be larger than the size of the one first-2 opening (BOP1). In this way, each of the first-1 openings (BOP1') may have a size larger than that of a corresponding first-2 opening (BOP1) among the first-2 openings (BOP1). Accordingly, the range of the emission angle of light emitted from the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first pixel (PX1) can be prevented or reduced by a light-blocking layer (for example, at least one of the first light-blocking layer (BM1) and the second light-blocking layer (BM2)) comprising a plurality of first openings (BOP1, BOP1').

[0345] In one embodiment, the second openings (BOP2, BOP2') may have a shape and / or size corresponding to the first openings (BOP1, BOP1'). For example, the second openings (BOP2, BOP2') may include second-1 openings (BOP2') having the same shape (e.g., circular shape) and size as the first-1 openings (BOP1'), and second-2 openings (BOP2) having the same shape (e.g., circular shape) and size as the first-2 openings (BOP1).

[0346] In one embodiment, a first type of opening (e.g., openings having a relatively large width) including first-1 openings (BOP1') and second-1 openings (BOP2'), and a second type of opening (e.g., openings having a relatively small width) including first-2 openings (BOP1) and second-2 openings (BOP2) can be arranged uniformly overall. For example, in a display area (DA) and a non-display area (NDA), a plurality of openings including first type openings and second type openings can be arranged in a regularly repeating manner in at least one direction. The arrangement structure of the first type of openings and second type openings may vary depending on the arrangement structure of the first pixels (PX1) and second pixels (PX2).

[0347] Referring to FIG. 29, the lower patterns of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) (for example, the first patterns (BMP11) and the third patterns (BMP21)) can be formed as a continuous first light-blocking layer (BM1). For example, the first light-blocking layer (BM1) can be formed continuously from a display area (DA) to a part of a non-display area (NDA). A part of the first light-blocking layer (BM1) located in the display area (DA) can function as a light-blocking structure that limits the viewing angle of the second pixels (PX2) or reduces side light. Another part of the first light-blocking layer (BM1) located in the non-display area (NDA) can function as a light-blocking structure that limits the viewing angle of the outermost pixels (PX) or reduces side light so that all pixels (PX), including the outermost pixels (PX), have more uniform optical characteristics.

[0348] In one embodiment, the first light-blocking layer (BM1) is formed in at least the display area (DA) and may be formed in the non-display area (NDA) with a width greater than the size of one pixel (PX) or one first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) from the boundary portion (BDA) between the display area (DA) and the non-display area (NDA) (for example, the outermost edge of the display area (DA) and the inner edge of the display area (DA) adjacent to the non-display light-transmitting area (OPA). For example, in the non-display area (NDA), the first light-blocking layer (BM1) may be disposed that extends from the first light-blocking layer (BM1) of the display area (DA) and has a width greater than one unit or one set from the outer edge of the display area (DA). For example, the first light-blocking layer (BM1) may have a shape formed by extending from the display area (DA) to the non-display area (NDA) by a margin distance suitable for homogenizing the optical characteristics of the pixels (PX).

[0349] Although FIG. 29 illustrates that the first shading layer (BM1) includes a diagonal edge in region A2, the shape of the edge of the first shading layer (BM1) is not limited thereto. For example, the first shading layer (BM1) may include an edge having a straight shape extending in the first direction (DR1) or the second direction (DR2) in at least one part, a diagonal shape inclined with respect to the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2), a curved shape, a stepped shape, or other shapes. Additionally, the edge of the first shading layer (BM1) may have different shapes depending on the part.

[0350] The first light-blocking layer (BM1) includes first openings (BOP1, BOP1') corresponding to the light-emitting regions (EA) of each pixel (PX) in the display area (DA), and may surround the light-emitting regions (EA) of the pixels (PX). For example, the first light-blocking layer (BM1) may have first openings (BOP1') corresponding to the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first pixels (PX1) and first openings (BOP1) corresponding to the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixels (PX2) formed therein, and the first light-blocking layer (BM1) may not overlap with the light-emitting regions (EA) of the pixels (PX) in the third direction (DR3).

[0351] The first light-blocking layer (BM1) may surround the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first pixel (PX1) and the second pixel (PX2) at a position spaced apart by a different horizontal distance from the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first pixel (PX1) and the second pixel (PX2). For example, the first light-blocking layer (BM1) may surround the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first pixel (PX1) at a position spaced apart by a relatively long distance from the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first pixel (PX1), thereby allowing light to be emitted over a wider angular range from the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first pixel (PX1). For example, the first light-blocking layer (BM1) may be opened to include openings larger than the openings (OPN in FIG. 8) of the light-blocking member (LBM) at a position corresponding to the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first pixel (PX1) so that the first light-blocking layer (BM1) does not substantially limit the viewing angle of the first pixel (PX1). On the other hand, the first light-blocking layer (BM1) surrounds the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixel (PX2) at a position spaced apart from the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixel (PX2) by a relatively short distance, thereby appropriately blocking or reducing high-angle side light that is outside the emission angle range corresponding to the second display mode from the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixel (PX2).

[0352] The first light-blocking layer (BM1) may include second openings (BOP2, BOP2') in a non-display area (NDA). For example, in the first light-blocking layer (BM1), one unit or one set of second openings (BOP2, BOP2') (for example, a set of second openings (BOP2 or BOP2') consisting of four second openings (BOP2 or BOP2')) may be formed in an outer direction toward the non-display area (NDA) from a boundary portion (BDA) of the display area (DA) that contacts the non-display area (NDA) (or a direction toward the non-display light-transmitting area (OPA)). For example, the first light-blocking layer (BM1) may include first openings (BOP1, BOP1') and second openings (BOP2, BOP2') that are uniformly arranged throughout the display area (DA) and its periphery. Accordingly, the optical characteristics of the pixels (PX) can be made more uniform.

[0353] The second light-blocking layer (BM2) may include light-blocking patterns spaced apart from each other on a portion of the first light-blocking layer (BM1). For example, the second light-blocking layer (BM2) may include second patterns (BMP12) that surround the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixels (PX2) in the display area (DA) and form each of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1). Additionally, the second light-blocking layer (BM2) may further include fourth patterns (BMP22) that span the boundary portion (BDA) between the display area (DA) and the non-display area (NDA) or are located in the non-display area (NDA) and form each of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2). The fourth patterns (BMP22) may be spaced apart in a direction toward the non-display area (NDA) from the second outermost patterns (BMP12) located at the edge (EDA) of the display area (DA) among the second patterns (BMP12).

[0354] Referring to FIG. 30, the first light-blocking layer (BM1) may include light-blocking patterns spaced apart from each other on a portion of the pixel definition layer (PDL) and the light-blocking member (LBM). For example, the first light-blocking layer (BM1) may include first patterns (BMP11) that surround the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixels (PX2) in the display area (DA) and form each of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1). Additionally, the first light-blocking layer (BM1) may further include third patterns (BMP21) that span the boundary portion (BDA) between the display area (DA) and the non-display area (NDA) or are located in the non-display area (NDA) and form each of the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2). The third patterns (BMP21) may be spaced apart in a direction toward the non-display area (NDA) from the first outermost patterns (BMP11) located at the edge (EDA) of the display area (DA) among the first patterns (BMP11).

[0355] The upper patterns of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) (for example, the second patterns (BMP12) and the fourth patterns (BMP22)) can be formed as a continuous second light-blocking layer (BM2). For example, the second light-blocking layer (BM2) can be formed continuously on the first light-blocking layer (BM1) from a display area (DA) to a part of a non-display area (NDA). A part of the second light-blocking layer (BM2) located in the display area (DA) can function as a light-blocking structure that limits the viewing angle of the second pixels (PX2) or reduces side light. Another part of the second light-blocking layer (BM2) located in the non-display area (NDA) can function as a light-blocking structure that limits the viewing angle of the outermost pixels (PX) or reduces side light so that all pixels (PX), including the outermost pixels (PX), have uniform optical characteristics.

[0356] In one embodiment, the second light-blocking layer (BM2) is formed in at least the display area (DA) and may be formed in the non-display area (NDA) with a width greater than the size of one pixel (PX) or one first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) from the boundary portion (BDA) between the display area (DA) and the non-display area (NDA). For example, in the non-display area (NDA), a second light-blocking layer (BM2) may be disposed that extends from the second light-blocking layer (BM2) of the display area (DA) and has a width greater than one unit or one set size from the outer edge of the display area (DA). For example, the second light-blocking layer (BM2) may have a shape formed by extending from the display area (DA) to the non-display area (NDA) by a margin distance suitable for homogenizing the optical characteristics of the pixels (PX).

[0357] Although FIG. 30 illustrates that the second light-blocking layer (BM2) includes a diagonal edge in region A2, the shape of the edge of the second light-blocking layer (BM2) is not limited thereto. For example, the second light-blocking layer (BM2) may include an edge having a straight line shape extending in the first direction (DR1) or the second direction (DR2) in at least one part, a diagonal shape inclined with respect to the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2), a curved shape, a stepped shape, or other shapes. Additionally, the edge of the second light-blocking layer (BM2) may have different shapes depending on the part.

[0358] The second light-blocking layer (BM2) includes first openings (BOP1, BOP1') corresponding to the light-emitting regions (EA) of each pixel (PX) in the display area (DA) and can surround the light-emitting regions (EA) of the pixels (PX). For example, the second light-blocking layer (BM2) may have first openings (BOP1') corresponding to the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first pixels (PX1) and first openings (BOP1) corresponding to the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixels (PX2) formed therein, and the second light-blocking layer (BM2) may not overlap with the light-emitting regions (EA) of the pixels (PX) in the third direction (DR3).

[0359] The second light-blocking layer (BM2) may surround the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first pixel (PX1) and the second pixel (PX2) at a position spaced apart by a different horizontal distance from the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first pixel (PX1) and the second pixel (PX2). For example, the second light-blocking layer (BM2) may surround the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first pixel (PX1) at a position spaced apart by a relatively long distance from the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first pixel (PX1), thereby allowing light to be emitted from the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first pixel (PX1) over a wider angular range. For example, the second light-blocking layer (BM2) may be opened to include openings larger than the openings (OPN in FIG. 8) of the second light-blocking layer (BM2) at a position corresponding to the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first pixel (PX1) so that the second light-blocking layer (BM2) does not substantially limit the viewing angle of the first pixel (PX1). On the other hand, the second light-blocking layer (BM2) may appropriately block or reduce high-angle side light from the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixel (PX2) by surrounding the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixel (PX2) at a position spaced relatively close to the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixel (PX2).

[0360] The second light-blocking layer (BM2) may include second openings (BOP2, BOP2') in a non-display area (NDA). For example, in the second light-blocking layer (BM2), one unit or one set of second openings (BOP2, BOP2') (for example, a set of second openings (BOP2 or BOP2') consisting of four second openings (BOP2 or BOP2')) may be formed in an outer direction toward the non-display area (NDA) from a boundary portion (BDA) of the display area (DA) that contacts the non-display area (NDA) (or a direction toward the non-display light-transmitting area (OPA)). For example, the second light-blocking layer (BM2) may include first openings (BOP1, BOP1') and second openings (BOP2, BOP2') that are uniformly arranged throughout the display area (DA) and its periphery. Accordingly, the optical characteristics of the pixels (PX) can be made more uniform.

[0361] Referring to FIG. 31, the lower patterns of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) (for example, the first patterns (BMP11) and the third patterns (BMP21)) may be formed as a continuous first light-blocking layer (BM1), and the upper patterns of the first light-blocking patterns (BMP1) and the second light-blocking patterns (BMP2) (for example, the second patterns (BMP12) and the fourth patterns (BMP22)) may be formed as a continuous second light-blocking layer (BM2). For example, each of the first light-blocking layer (BM1) and the second light-blocking layer (BM2) may be formed continuously from a display area (DA) to a portion of a non-display area (NDA). Additionally, the first light-blocking layer (BM1) and the second light-blocking layer (BM2) each include first openings (BOP1, BOP1') in the display area (DA) and surround the light-emitting areas (EA) of the pixels (PX), and may include second openings (BOP2, BOP2') in the non-display area (NDA).

[0362] Accordingly, the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) and the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) are not separated into independent and / or spaced-apart individual patterns, but can be formed in the form of a continuous light-blocking layer layer by layer. For example, the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2) has a form formed by extending the first light-blocking pattern (BMP1) into a non-display area (NDA), and may include a plurality of second openings (BOP2, BOP2').

[0363] In FIG. 31, an embodiment is disclosed in which the first light-blocking layer (BM1) and the second light-blocking layer (BM2) are formed with substantially the same size, but is not limited thereto. For example, one of the first light-blocking layer (BM1) and the second light-blocking layer (BM2) may have an extended width compared to the other. In the embodiments of FIG. 29 to FIG. 31, by placing the first light-blocking layer (BM1) and / or the second light-blocking layer (BM2), which can function as a light-blocking structure suitable for homogenizing optical characteristics similar to the second light-blocking pattern (BMP2), in a part of the non-display area (NDA) that contacts the display area (DA), differences in the light emission characteristics of the pixels (PX) according to location can be prevented or reduced. Accordingly, the optical characteristics of the pixels (PX) can be homogenized overall.

[0364] As described above, the display device (10) and the electronic device (1) according to the embodiments may include first pixels (PX1) and second pixels (PX2) that are disposed in a display area (DA) and each include light-emitting regions (EA), and a light-blocking structure (e.g., first light-blocking patterns (BMP1)) that surrounds the light-emitting regions (EA) of the second pixels (PX2) among the light-emitting regions (EA) of the first pixels (PX1) and the second pixels (PX2). According to the embodiments, by selectively driving at least some of the pixels (PX) among the first pixels (PX1) and the second pixels (PX2) according to the display mode, the viewing angle of the display device (10) and the electronic device (1) can be varied according to the display mode. For example, by selectively driving the first pixels (PX1) and the second pixels (PX2) according to the viewing angle characteristics required in each display mode, the viewing angle of the display device (10) and the electronic device (1) can be selectively changed or adjusted.

[0365] In some embodiments, the display device (10) and the electronic device (1) may include an outermost light-blocking structure (e.g., first outermost light-blocking patterns (BMP1)) surrounding the light-emitting regions (EA) of second pixels (PX2) located at the outermost edge (EDA) of the display area (DA), and an additional light-blocking structure (e.g., second light-blocking patterns (BMP2)) positioned immediately around the outermost light-blocking structure and disposed in a portion of the non-display area (NDA) that contacts the edge (EDA) of the display area (DA). The light-blocking structure of the display area (DA) and the light-blocking structure of the non-display area (NDA) may be formed separately from each other as individual patterns, or at least partially integrated.

[0366] According to the embodiments, the optical characteristics of pixels (PX) can be uniformized across the entire display area (DA) including the edge portion (EDA), and light leakage and / or color difference that may occur at the edge portion (EDA) of the display area (DA) or around it can be suppressed or reduced. Accordingly, the luminance uniformity and color uniformity of the display device (10) and the electronic device (1) are improved, and the optical characteristics and display quality of the display device (10) and the electronic device (1) can be improved.

[0367] A display device (10) according to at least one of the embodiments described above may be applied to various electronic devices (1). An electronic device (1) according to one embodiment includes the display device (10) described above (or a display module including a display panel (100) according to at least one embodiment), and may further include a module or device having additional functions other than the display device (10).

[0368] FIG. 32 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0369] Referring to FIG. 32, an electronic device (1) according to one embodiment may include a display module (11), a processor (12), a memory (13), and a power module (14).

[0370] The electronic device (1) can output various information in the form of an image through the display module (11). For example, when the processor (12) executes an application stored in memory (13), the image information provided by the application can be provided to the user through the display module (11).

[0371] The display module (11) may include a display panel (100) for displaying an image. For example, the display module (11) may include a display panel (100) according to at least one of the embodiments described above.

[0372] The processor (12) may include at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor (AP), a graphic processing unit (GPU), a communication processor (CP), an image signal processor (ISP), and a controller.

[0373] The memory (13) may store data information necessary for the operation of the processor (12) or the display module (11). For example, the memory (13) may store image data signals and / or input control signals.

[0374] The processor (12) can transmit an image data signal to the display module (11) and control the display module (11) using information stored in the memory (13). The processor (12) can transmit the image data signal and / or input control signal stored in the memory (13) to the display module (11). For example, when the processor (12) executes an application stored in the memory (13), the image data signal and / or input control signal are transmitted to the display module (11), and the display module (11) can process the received signal and output image information through the display screen.

[0375] The power module (14) may include a power supply module, such as a power adapter or battery device, and a power conversion module that converts the power supplied by the power supply module to generate power necessary for the operation of the electronic device (1). For example, the power module (14) may generate power necessary for the operation of the display module (11) and supply it to the display module (11).

[0376] At least one of each component of the electronic device (1) described above may be included in the display device (10) according to the embodiments described above. Additionally, some of the individual modules functionally included in one module may be included in the display device (10), while others may be provided separately from the display device (10). For example, the display device (10) may include a display module (11), and the processor (12), memory (13), and power module (14) may be provided in the form of other devices within the electronic device (1) other than the display device (10).

[0377] FIG. 33 is a schematic diagram of an electronic device according to various embodiments.

[0378] Referring to FIG. 33, various electronic devices to which the display device (10) according to the embodiments is applied may include not only image display electronic devices such as a smartphone (1_1a), tablet PC (1_1b), laptop (1_1c), TV (1_1d), and desk monitor (1_1e), but also wearable electronic devices including display modules such as smart glasses (1_2a), head-mounted display (1_2b), and smart watch (1_2c), and automotive electronic devices (1_3) including display modules such as a CID (Center Information Display) and room mirror display placed on the instrument panel, center fascia, and dashboard of a car.

[0379] 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

[0380] 1: Electronic device 10: Display device 100: Display panel BM1: First shading layer BM2: Second shading layer BMP1: First shading pattern BMP2: Second light-blocking pattern BMPL: Light control layer CDA: Center of the display area CF: Color filter DA: Display area EA: Emitting area ED: Light-emitting element EDA: Edge of display area LBM: Light-blocking material NDA: Non-display area PDL: Pixel Definition Layer PX1: First Pixel PX2: Second pixel SUB: Substrate

Claims

Claim 1 A display device comprising: a substrate including a display area including light-emitting regions and a non-light-emitting region between the light-emitting regions, and a non-display area adjacent to the display area; light-emitting elements disposed on the light-emitting regions on the substrate; a plurality of color filters disposed on the light-emitting elements and positioned corresponding to each of the light-emitting regions; a first light-blocking pattern located on the non-light-emitting region of the display area on the plurality of color filters and surrounding at least one light-emitting region among the light-emitting regions; and a plurality of second light-blocking patterns located on the non-display area on the plurality of color filters and spaced apart from the first light-blocking pattern, wherein the first light-blocking pattern includes a first pattern disposed on the plurality of color filters and a second pattern disposed on the first pattern and overlapping with the first pattern, and each of the plurality of second light-blocking patterns includes a third pattern disposed on the same layer as the first pattern and a fourth pattern disposed on the same layer as the second pattern and overlapping with the third pattern. Claim 2 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of second light-blocking patterns are arranged in the non-display area in a manner that partially or entirely surrounds the display area. Claim 3 A display device according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of first light-blocking patterns arranged in at least a first direction in the display area, wherein among the plurality of first light-blocking patterns, a first outermost light-blocking pattern located at the outermost edge of the display area in the first direction and one of the plurality of second light-blocking patterns are adjacent to each other in the first direction. Claim 4 A display device according to paragraph 3, wherein the separation distance in the first direction between the two first light-blocking patterns closest to each other in the first direction among the plurality of first light-blocking patterns is the same as the separation distance in the first direction between the first outermost light-blocking pattern and the one second light-blocking pattern. Claim 5 A display device according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of first light-blocking patterns spaced apart from each other in the display area, wherein each of the plurality of first light-blocking patterns surrounds at least one corresponding light-emitting area among the light-emitting areas. Claim 6 A display device according to claim 5, wherein at least one of the plurality of first light-blocking patterns comprises at least one opening that overlaps with the corresponding at least one light-emitting region and at least one other opening that does not overlap with the light-emitting regions, and each of the remaining first light-blocking patterns among the plurality of first light-blocking patterns, excluding the at least one first light-blocking pattern, surrounds the corresponding plurality of light-emitting regions among the light-emitting regions and comprises a plurality of openings that overlap with each of the plurality of light-emitting regions. Claim 7 A display device according to claim 5, wherein, when viewed in a planar view, the plurality of first light-blocking patterns have the same shape as each other. Claim 8 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the first light-blocking pattern includes at least one opening that overlaps with the at least one light-emitting region, and at least one second light-blocking pattern among the plurality of second light-blocking patterns includes at least one opening spaced apart from the light-emitting regions and the first light-blocking pattern. Claim 9 A display device according to claim 1, wherein, when viewed in a planar view, at least one of the plurality of second light-blocking patterns and the first light-blocking pattern have the same shape as each other. Claim 10 A display device according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of second light-blocking patterns and the first light-blocking pattern comprises at least one ring pattern. Claim 11 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the first light-blocking pattern includes at least one opening that overlaps with the at least one light-emitting region, and at least one of the plurality of second light-blocking patterns is a solid pattern with an interior filled on a plane. Claim 12 A display device according to claim 1, wherein, when viewed in a planar view, at least one of the plurality of second light-blocking patterns is formed as a partial pattern having a shape corresponding to a part of the first light-blocking pattern. Claim 13 A display device according to claim 1, wherein one of the plurality of second light-blocking patterns and the first light-blocking pattern are adjacent to each other in one direction, and the length of the one second light-blocking pattern in the one direction is less than or equal to the length of the first light-blocking pattern in the one direction. Claim 14 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the first pattern and the third pattern comprise the same material, and the second pattern and the fourth pattern comprise the same material. Claim 15 A display device according to claim 1, further comprising: a pixel defining layer disposed between the substrate and the plurality of color filters and surrounding the light-emitting regions; and an encapsulation layer disposed on the light-emitting elements and the pixel defining layer and covering the light-emitting elements from below the plurality of color filters. Claim 16 In claim 15, the plurality of color filters comprises: a first color filter disposed on a first light-emitting element among the light-emitting elements and transmitting light of a first color; a second color filter disposed on a second light-emitting element among the light-emitting elements and transmitting light of a second color; and a third color filter disposed on a third light-emitting element among the light-emitting elements and transmitting light of a third color, wherein the first light-blocking pattern and the plurality of second light-blocking patterns are disposed on an organic layer covering the first color filter, the second color filter and the third color filter, a display device. Claim 17 A display device according to claim 16, wherein at least two of the first color filter, the second color filter, and the third color filter overlap each other on a portion of the pixel definition layer, and the first light-blocking pattern and the plurality of second light-blocking patterns are disposed on the portion where the at least two color filters overlap. Claim 18 A display device according to claim 15, further comprising a touch electrode disposed between the above-mentioned encapsulation layer and the above-mentioned plurality of color filters and overlapping with a part of the above-mentioned pixel definition layer. Claim 19 A display device comprising: a substrate including a display area including light-emitting regions and a non-light-emitting region between the light-emitting regions, and a non-display area adjacent to the display area; light-emitting elements disposed in the light-emitting regions on the substrate; a light-shielding layer located on at least a portion of the non-light-emitting region and the non-display area of ​​the display area on the light-emitting elements, and surrounding the light-emitting regions in the display area, wherein the light-shielding layer comprises: a plurality of first openings located in the display area and overlapping with each of the light-emitting regions; and a plurality of second openings located in the non-display area and spaced apart from the plurality of first openings. Claim 20 In claim 19, the plurality of second openings are spaced apart from each other and arranged to partially or wholly surround the display area, in a display device. Claim 21 A display device according to claim 19, wherein the plurality of first openings include a first outermost opening that overlaps with the outermost light-emitting region closest to the non-display region in one direction among the light-emitting regions, and the plurality of second openings include at least one second opening adjacent to the first outermost opening in one direction. Claim 22 A display device according to claim 19, wherein the light-emitting regions include a plurality of first light-emitting regions that emit light of a first color, and the plurality of first openings include a first-1 opening that overlaps with one of the plurality of first light-emitting regions, and a first-2 opening that overlaps with another of the plurality of first light-emitting regions, wherein the size of the first-1 opening and the size of the first-2 opening are different. Claim 23 A display device according to claim 22, wherein the plurality of second openings comprises a second-1 opening having the same size as the first-1 opening, and a second-2 opening having the same size as the first-2 opening. Claim 24 A display device according to claim 19, wherein the light-blocking layer comprises: a first light-blocking layer formed continuously in the display area and the non-display area and surrounding the light-emitting areas; and a second light-blocking layer spaced apart from each other on the first light-blocking layer in the display area and including first light-blocking patterns surrounding some of the light-emitting areas. Claim 25 A display device according to claim 24, wherein the second light-blocking layer further comprises second light-blocking patterns spaced apart from the first light-blocking patterns and disposed in the non-display area. Claim 26 A display device according to claim 19, wherein the light-blocking layer comprises: a first light-blocking layer having first light-blocking patterns arranged spaced apart from each other in the display area and surrounding some of the light-emitting areas; and a second light-blocking layer formed continuously on the first light-blocking layer in the display area and the non-display area and surrounding the light-emitting areas. Claim 27 A display device according to claim 26, wherein the first light-blocking layer further comprises second light-blocking patterns spaced apart from the first light-blocking patterns and disposed in the non-display area. Claim 28 In claim 19, the light-blocking layer comprises: a first light-blocking layer formed continuously in the display area and the non-display area and surrounding the light-emitting areas; and a second light-blocking layer formed continuously in the display area and the non-display area on the first light-blocking layer and surrounding the light-emitting areas, wherein each of the first light-blocking layer and the second light-blocking layer comprises the plurality of first openings in the display area and the plurality of second openings in the non-display area. Claim 29 A display module including a display panel; and a processor that transmits an image data signal to the display module, wherein the display panel comprises: a substrate including a display area including light-emitting regions and a non-light-emitting region between the light-emitting regions, and a non-display area adjacent to the display area; light-emitting elements disposed on the light-emitting regions on the substrate; a plurality of color filters disposed on the light-emitting elements and positioned corresponding to each of the light-emitting regions; and a first light-blocking pattern located on the non-light-emitting region of the display area on the plurality of color filters and surrounding at least one light-emitting region among the light-emitting regions. An electronic device comprising a plurality of second light-blocking patterns located in a non-display area on the plurality of color filters and spaced apart from the first light-blocking pattern, wherein the first light-blocking pattern comprises a first pattern disposed on the plurality of color filters and a second pattern disposed on the first pattern and overlapping with the first pattern, and each of the plurality of second light-blocking patterns comprises a third pattern disposed on the same layer as the first pattern and a fourth pattern disposed on the same layer as the second pattern and overlapping with the third pattern. Claim 30 An electronic device according to claim 29, wherein the plurality of second light-blocking patterns are arranged in the non-display area in a manner that partially or wholly surrounds the display area. Claim 31 In claim 29, the display panel further comprises a plurality of first light-blocking patterns arranged in at least a first direction in the display area, including the first light-blocking pattern, wherein among the plurality of first light-blocking patterns, a first outermost light-blocking pattern located at the outermost edge of the display area in the first direction and one of the plurality of second light-blocking patterns are adjacent to each other in the first direction, an electronic device. Claim 32 An electronic device according to claim 29, wherein the display panel further comprises a plurality of first light-blocking patterns spaced apart from each other in the display area, each of the plurality of first light-blocking patterns surrounds at least one corresponding light-emitting area among the light-emitting areas. Claim 33 An electronic device according to claim 32, wherein at least one first light-blocking pattern among the plurality of first light-blocking patterns comprises at least one opening that overlaps with the corresponding at least one light-emitting region and at least one other opening that does not overlap with the light-emitting regions, and each of the remaining first light-blocking patterns among the plurality of first light-blocking patterns, excluding the at least one first light-blocking pattern, surrounds the corresponding plurality of light-emitting regions among the light-emitting regions and comprises a plurality of openings that overlap with each of the plurality of light-emitting regions. Claim 34 An electronic device according to claim 29, wherein the first light-blocking pattern comprises at least one opening that overlaps with the at least one light-emitting region, and at least one second light-blocking pattern among the plurality of second light-blocking patterns comprises at least one opening spaced apart from the light-emitting regions and the first light-blocking pattern. Claim 35 An electronic device according to claim 29, wherein, when viewed in a planar view, at least one of the plurality of second light-blocking patterns and the first light-blocking pattern have the same shape as each other. Claim 36 An electronic device according to claim 29, wherein the display panel further comprises: a pixel defining layer disposed between the substrate and the plurality of color filters and surrounding the light-emitting regions; and an encapsulation layer disposed on the light-emitting elements and the pixel defining layer and covering the light-emitting elements from below the plurality of color filters. Claim 37 An electronic device according to claim 36, wherein the plurality of color filters comprises: a first color filter disposed on a first light-emitting element among the light-emitting elements and transmitting light of a first color; a second color filter disposed on a second light-emitting element among the light-emitting elements and transmitting light of a second color; and a third color filter disposed on a third light-emitting element among the light-emitting elements and transmitting light of a third color, wherein the first light-blocking pattern and the plurality of second light-blocking patterns are disposed on an organic layer covering the first color filter, the second color filter and the third color filter. Claim 38 An electronic device according to claim 37, wherein at least two of the first color filter, the second color filter, and the third color filter overlap each other on a portion of the pixel definition layer, and the first light-blocking pattern and the second light-blocking pattern are disposed on the portion where the at least two color filters overlap.

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