Display device

KR103031354B1Active Publication Date: 2026-10-13SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
KR1020210005333
Authority / Receiving Office
KR · KR
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2021-01-14
Publication Date
2026-10-13
Estimated Expiration
2041-01-14

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  • Figure 112021005065081-PAT00007_ABST
    Figure 112021005065081-PAT00007_ABST
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Abstract

A display device is provided. The display device comprises a display panel and a touch member disposed on the display panel, the touch member comprising a first touch conductive layer, a second touch conductive layer, and a first touch insulating film interposed at least partially between the first touch conductive layer and the second touch conductive layer, wherein the first touch conductive layer comprises a first touch connection pattern including a first connection area and a second connection area having a line width greater than that of the first connection area, and the second touch conductive layer comprises a plurality of first touch sensor patterns electrically connected by the first touch connection pattern, a plurality of second touch sensor patterns electrically insulated from the plurality of first touch sensor patterns, and a second touch connection pattern electrically connecting the plurality of second touch sensor patterns, wherein the second connection area of ​​the first touch connection pattern is disposed between the first touch sensor pattern and the second touch sensor pattern that are mutually facing each other in a planar manner.
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Description

Technology Field

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

[0002] As the information society develops, the demand for display devices to show images is increasing in various forms. For example, display devices are being applied to a wide range of electronic devices, such as smartphones, digital cameras, laptop computers, navigation systems, and smart televisions.

[0003] The display device includes light-receiving display devices such as a liquid crystal display device, a field emission display device, and a light-emitting display device, as well as light-emitting display devices such as an organic light-emitting display device including an organic light-emitting element, an inorganic light-emitting display device including an inorganic light-emitting element such as an inorganic semiconductor, and a micro-light-emitting display device including a micro-light-emitting element.

[0004] A display device includes a display panel that generates and displays images, as well as various input devices. Recently, touch panels that recognize touch input are being widely applied to display devices, primarily in smartphones and tablet PCs. The touch panel determines whether input has been received and calculates the corresponding location as touch input coordinates. The problem to be solved

[0005] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a display device that can suppress or prevent defects such as short circuits between the driving electrode and the sensing electrode of a touch member, and has improved reliability of the touch member.

[0006] The problems of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned technical problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below. means of solving the problem

[0007] A display device according to one embodiment for solving the above problem comprises a display panel and a touch member disposed on the display panel, the touch member comprising a first touch conductive layer, a second touch conductive layer, and a first touch insulating film interposed at least partially between the first touch conductive layer and the second touch conductive layer, wherein the first touch conductive layer comprises a first touch connection pattern including a first connection area and a second connection area having a line width greater than that of the first connection area, and the second touch conductive layer comprises a plurality of first touch sensor patterns electrically connected by the first touch connection pattern, a plurality of second touch sensor patterns electrically insulated from the plurality of first touch sensor patterns, and a second touch connection pattern electrically connecting the plurality of second touch sensor patterns, wherein the second connection area of ​​the first touch connection pattern is disposed between the first touch sensor pattern and the second touch sensor pattern that are mutually facing each other in a planar manner.

[0008] The line width of the first connection area has a first width, and the line width of the second connection area has a second width, and the second width may be within a range of 1.1 to 10 times the first width.

[0009] The first width may be within the range of 1.0㎛ to 5.0㎛, and the second width may be within the range of 2.0㎛ to 10.0㎛.

[0010] The first touch sensor pattern, the second touch sensor pattern, and the second touch connection pattern may include a mesh pattern.

[0011] It further includes a plurality of light-emitting regions that emit light and a non-light-emitting region surrounding the plurality of light-emitting regions, wherein the first touch connection pattern, the first touch sensor pattern, the second touch sensor pattern, and the second touch connection pattern may be disposed in the non-light-emitting region.

[0012] The above-mentioned light-emitting region emits light of different colors and includes a first light-emitting region and a second light-emitting region adjacent to each other, wherein the width of the non-light-emitting region disposed between the first light-emitting region and the second light-emitting region may be greater than the line width of the second connecting region.

[0013] The line width of the first touch sensor pattern and the line width of the second touch sensor pattern may be smaller than the line width of the second connection area of ​​the first touch connection pattern.

[0014] The first touch sensor pattern includes a first base and a first protrusion protruding from the first base toward the second touch sensor pattern, and the second touch sensor pattern includes a second base and a second protrusion protruding from the second base toward the first touch sensor pattern, and the first protrusion and the second protrusion may face each other in a planar manner.

[0015] The second connection area of ​​the first touch connection pattern may be disposed in an area where the first protrusion and the second protrusion face each other in a planar manner.

[0016] The first protrusion and the second protrusion may become narrower as they face each other.

[0017] The distance between the first protrusion and the second protrusion is greater than the extended length of the second connection area of ​​the first touch connection pattern, and the entire area of ​​the second connection area of ​​the first touch connection pattern may not overlap with the first touch sensor pattern and the second touch sensor pattern.

[0018] The plurality of second touch sensor patterns and the second touch connection pattern are formed integrally, and the plurality of first touch sensor patterns can be electrically separated and electrically insulated from each other with the second touch connection pattern in between.

[0019] The plurality of first touch sensor patterns are arranged along a first direction, and the plurality of second touch sensor patterns may be arranged along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0020] It may further include touch driving wiring electrically connected to the plurality of first touch sensor patterns and touch sensing wiring electrically connected to the plurality of second touch sensor patterns.

[0021] A display device according to one embodiment for solving the above problem comprises a display panel including a plurality of light-emitting regions that emit light and a non-light-emitting region surrounding the plurality of light-emitting regions, and a touch member disposed on the display panel, comprising a first touch sensor pattern, a second touch sensor pattern separated from and opposite to the first touch sensor pattern, and a first touch connection pattern disposed between the first touch sensor pattern and the second touch sensor pattern, wherein at least a portion thereof is disposed between the first touch sensor pattern and the second touch sensor pattern that are mutually opposite, the first touch sensor pattern, the second touch sensor pattern, and the first touch connection pattern are disposed in the non-light-emitting region, and the width of the first touch connection pattern is greater than the width of the first touch sensor pattern and the width of the second touch sensor pattern, and is smaller than the width of the non-light-emitting region located between the plurality of light-emitting regions adjacent to each other.

[0022] The first touch sensor pattern and the second touch sensor pattern may include a mesh shape.

[0023] The first touch connection pattern is composed of a first touch conductive layer, and the first touch sensor pattern and the second touch sensor pattern may be composed of a second touch conductive layer different from the first touch conductive layer.

[0024] The second touch conductive layer further includes a second touch connection pattern, wherein the first touch sensor pattern and the second touch sensor pattern are each provided in a plurality, and the plurality of first touch sensor patterns are electrically connected by the first touch connection pattern, and the plurality of second touch sensor patterns can be electrically connected by the second touch connection pattern.

[0025] The first touch connection pattern includes a first connection area and a second connection area having a line width larger than that of the first connection area, wherein the first connection area overlaps with at least one of the first touch sensor pattern and the second touch sensor pattern, and the second connection area may be positioned between the mutually opposing first touch sensor pattern and the second touch sensor pattern.

[0026] The line width of the second connection area may be within the range of 1.1 to 10 times the line width of the first connection area.

[0027] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings. Effects of the invention

[0028] According to a display device of one embodiment, a short circuit defect between the driving electrode and the sensing electrode of a touch member included in the display device can be suppressed or prevented, and the reliability of the touch member can be improved.

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

[0030] FIG. 1 is a planar layout of a display device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of a display device according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an exemplary stacked structure of a display device according to one embodiment. FIG. 4 is a schematic planar layout of a touch layer according to one embodiment. Figure 5 is a partial enlarged view of the touch area of ​​Figure 4. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line VI-VI' of Figure 5. FIG. 7 is a layout diagram showing the relative arrangement relationship between the pixels of a display unit and the mesh-type pattern of a touch member according to one embodiment. FIG. 8 is a plan view of a first connecting part according to one embodiment. FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of area A of FIG. 7. FIG. 9 illustrates the area around the second region (CA2) of the first connection part (CP1) according to one embodiment. Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along the XX' line of Figure 7. FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of a portion of the plan view of a touch member according to another embodiment. FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of a portion of the plan view of a touch member according to another embodiment. FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of a portion of the plan view of a touch member according to another embodiment. FIG. 14 is an enlarged view of a portion of the plan view of a touch member according to another embodiment. FIG. 15 is an enlarged view of a portion of the plan view of a touch member according to another embodiment. FIG. 16 is an enlarged view of a portion of the plan view of a touch member according to another embodiment. Specific details for implementing the invention

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

[0032] When elements or layers are referred to as being on another element or layer, this includes cases where another layer or element is interposed directly on or in the middle of another element. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same components.

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

[0034] Specific embodiments will be described below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0035] FIG. 1 is a planar layout of a display device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of a display device according to one embodiment.

[0036] In the embodiments, the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2) intersect each other in different directions. In the plan view of FIG. 1, for convenience of explanation, the first direction (DR1), which is the vertical direction, and the second direction (DR2), which is the horizontal direction, are defined. In the following embodiments, one side of the first direction (DR1) refers to the upper direction in the plan view, the other side of the first direction (DR1) refers to the lower direction in the plan view, one side of the second direction (DR2) refers to the right direction in the plan view, and the other side of the second direction (DR2) refers to the left direction in the plan view.

[0037] The third direction (DR3) is a direction that intersects the plane on which the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2) are placed, and intersects perpendicularly to both the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2). However, the directions mentioned in the embodiments should be understood as referring to relative directions, and the embodiments are not limited to the mentioned directions.

[0038] Unless otherwise defined, “upper,” “upper surface,” and “upper side” expressed in this specification with respect to the third direction (DR3) refer to the side of the display surface with respect to the display panel (10), and “lower,” “lower surface,” and “lower side” refer to the side opposite to the display surface with respect to the display panel (10).

[0039] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the display device (1) may refer to any electronic device that provides a display screen. For example, portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, smartphones, tablet PCs (Personal Computers), electronic watches, smartwatches, watch phones, mobile communication terminals, electronic notebooks, e-books, PMPs (Portable Multimedia Players), navigation systems, game consoles, digital cameras, etc. that provide a display screen, as well as televisions, laptops, monitors, billboards, and the Internet of Things, may be included in the display device (1).

[0040] The display device (1) includes an active area (AAR) and a non-active area (NAR). In the display device (1), if the part that displays the screen is defined as the display area, the part that does not display the screen is defined as the non-display area, and the area where touch input is detected is defined as the touch area, then the display area and the touch area may be included in the active area (AAR). The display area and the touch area may overlap. That is, the active area (AAR) may be an area where both display and touch input are detected.

[0041] The shape of the active area (AAR) may be a rectangle or a rectangle with rounded corners. The shape of the exemplified active area (AAR) is a rectangle with rounded corners where the first direction (DR1) is longer than the second direction (DR2). However, it is not limited thereto, and the active area (AAR) may have various shapes such as a rectangle where the second direction (DR2) is longer than the first direction (DR1), a square, other polygons, or a circle, ellipse, etc.

[0042] The non-active area (NAR) is placed around the active area (AAR). The non-active area (NAR) may be a bezel area. The non-active area (NAR) may surround all sides (four sides in the drawing) of the active area (AAR). However, it is not limited to this, and the non-active area (NAR) may not be placed near, for example, the upper side or the left and right side sides of the active area (AAR).

[0043] Signal wiring or driving circuits for applying a signal to an active area (AAR) (display area or touch area) may be disposed in the non-active area (NAR). The non-active area (NAR) may not include a display area. Furthermore, the non-active area (NAR) may not include a touch area. In other embodiments, the non-active area (NAR) may include a portion of the touch area, and a sensor member, such as a pressure sensor, may be disposed in the area. In some embodiments, the active area (AAR) may be exactly the same as the display area where the screen is displayed, and the non-active area (NAR) may be exactly the same as the non-display area where the screen is not displayed.

[0044] The display device (1) includes a display panel (10) that provides a display screen. Examples of the display panel (10) include an organic light-emitting display panel, a micro LED display panel, a nano LED display panel, a quantum dot light-emitting display panel, a liquid crystal display panel, a plasma display panel, a field emission display panel, an electrophoretic display panel, an electrowetting display panel, etc. In the following, an example of the display panel (10) is given in which an organic light-emitting display panel is applied, but it is not limited thereto, and if the same technical concept is applicable, it can be applied to other display panels.

[0045] The display panel (10) may include a plurality of pixels. The plurality of pixels may be arranged in a matrix direction. The shape of each pixel may be a planar rectangle or a square, but is not limited thereto, and may be a rhombus shape with each side tilted toward the first direction (DR1) or the second direction (DR2). Each pixel may include a light-emitting area. Each light-emitting area may be the same as the shape of the pixel, but may also be different. For example, if the shape of the pixel is a rectangle, the shape of the light-emitting area of ​​the corresponding pixel may have various shapes such as a rectangle, rhombus, hexagon, octagon, or circle. A detailed description of each pixel and light-emitting area will be provided later.

[0046] The display device (1) may further include a touch member that detects touch input. The touch member may be provided as a separate panel or film from the display panel (10) and attached to the display panel (10), or it may be provided in the form of a touch layer inside the display panel (10). In the following embodiments, the touch member is provided inside the touch panel and is included in the display panel (10) in the form of a touch layer, but is not limited thereto.

[0047] The display panel (10) may include a flexible substrate comprising a flexible polymer material such as polyimide. Accordingly, the display panel (10) may be bent, folded, folded, or rolled.

[0048] The display panel (10) may include a bending area (BR), which is an area where the panel is bent. Centered on the bending area (BR), the display panel (10) may be divided into a main area (MR) located on one side of the bending area (BR) and a sub-area (SR) located on the other side of the bending area (BR).

[0049] The display area of ​​the display panel (10) is positioned within the main area (MR). In one embodiment, the peripheral edge portion of the display area in the main area (MR), the entire bending area (BR), and the entire sub-area (SR) may be non-display areas. However, this is not limited thereto, and the bending area (BR) and / or sub-area (SR) may also include a display area.

[0050] The main area (MR) may generally have a shape similar to the planar shape of the display device (1). The main area (MR) may be a flat area located on a plane. However, it is not limited thereto, and at least one of the remaining edges in the main area (MR), excluding the edge (side) connected to the bending area (BR), may be bent to form a curved surface or bent in a vertical direction.

[0051] In the main area (MR), if at least one of the remaining edges, excluding the edge (side) connected to the bending area (BR), forms a curved surface or is bent, a display area may be placed on that edge as well. However, not limited to this, the curved or bent edge may become a non-display area that does not display the screen, or a display area and a non-display area may be mixed in that area.

[0052] The bending area (BR) is connected to the other side of the first direction (DR1) of the main area (MR). For example, the bending area (BR) may be connected through the lower short side of the main area (MR). The width of the bending area (BR) may be smaller than the width of the main area (MR) (the width of the short side). The connection between the main area (MR) and the bending area (BR) may have an L-shaped cutting form.

[0053] In the bending area (BR), the display panel (10) can be bent with curvature in the thickness direction downward, that is, in the direction opposite to the display surface. The bending area (BR) may have a constant radius of curvature, but is not limited thereto and may have different radii of curvature in sections. As the display panel (10) is bent in the bending area (BR), the surface of the display panel (10) may be reversed. That is, one side of the display panel (10) facing upward may be changed to face outward through the bending area (BR) and then back to face downward.

[0054] The sub-region (SR) extends from the bending region (BR). The sub-region (SR) may extend in a direction parallel to the main region (MR), starting from after the bending is completed. The sub-region (SR) may overlap with the main region (MR) in the thickness direction of the display panel (10). The width of the sub-region (SR) (width of the second direction (DR2)) may be the same as the width of the bending region (BR), but is not limited thereto.

[0055] A driver chip (IC) may be placed in the sub-region (SR). The driver chip (IC) may include an integrated circuit that drives the display panel (10). The integrated circuit may include an integrated circuit for a display and / or an integrated circuit for a touch unit. The integrated circuit for the display and the integrated circuit for the touch unit may be provided as separate chips or may be integrated into a single chip.

[0056] A pad portion may be disposed at the end of the sub-region (SR) of the display panel (10). The pad portion may include a plurality of display signal wiring pads and touch signal wiring pads. A driving board (FPC) may be connected to the pad portion at the end of the sub-region (SR) of the display panel (10). The driving board (FPC) may be a flexible printed circuit board or a film.

[0057] FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an exemplary stacked structure of a display device according to one embodiment.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 3, the display device (1) may include a sequentially stacked substrate (SUB), a circuit driving layer (DRL), a light-emitting layer (EML), an encapsulation layer (ENL), a touch layer (TSL), an anti-reflection layer (RPL), and a protection layer (WDL).

[0059] The substrate (SUB) can support the components placed on top.

[0060] A circuit driving layer (DRL) may be disposed on the upper surface of the substrate (SUB). The circuit driving layer (DRL) may include a circuit that drives the light-emitting layer (EML) of the pixel. The circuit driving layer (DRL) may include a plurality of thin-film transistors.

[0061] A light-emitting layer (EML) may be disposed on top of the circuit driving layer (DRL). The light-emitting layer (EML) may include an organic light-emitting layer. The light-emitting layer (EML) can emit light at various brightness levels depending on the driving signal transmitted from the circuit driving layer (DRL).

[0062] An encapsulation layer (ENL) may be disposed on top of the light-emitting layer (EML). The encapsulation layer (ENL) may include an inorganic film or a laminate of an inorganic film and an organic film. As another example, glass or an encapsulation film may be applied as the encapsulation layer (ENL).

[0063] A touch layer (TSL) may be disposed on top of the encapsulation layer (ENL). The touch layer (TSL) is a layer that recognizes touch input and can perform the function of a touch member. The touch layer (TSL) may include a plurality of sensing regions and sensing electrodes.

[0064] When a touch layer (TSL) is included in a display panel (10, see FIG. 1), the display panel (10, see FIG. 1) may include a substrate (SUB), a circuit driving layer (DRL), an emitting layer (EML), an encapsulation layer (ENL), and a touch layer (TSL). However, it is not limited thereto.

[0065] An anti-reflective layer (RPL) may be disposed on top of the touch layer (TSL). The anti-reflective layer (RPL) may serve to reduce external light reflection. The anti-reflective layer (RPL) may be attached in the form of a polarizing film. In this case, the anti-reflective layer (RPL) polarizes the passing light, and the anti-reflective layer (RPL) may be attached to the top of the touch layer (TSL) through an adhesive layer. The anti-reflective layer (RPL) in the form of a polarizing film may be omitted. The anti-reflective layer (RPL) may serve to reduce external light reflection. However, it is not limited thereto, and the anti-reflective layer (RPL) may be laminated inside the display panel (10) in the form of a color filter layer. In this case, the anti-reflective layer (RPL) may include a color filter that selectively transmits light of a specific wavelength.

[0066] A protective layer (WDL) may be disposed on top of the anti-reflective layer (RPL). The protective layer (WDL) may include, for example, a window member. The protective layer (WDL) may be attached to the anti-reflective layer (RPL) by means of an optically transparent adhesive or the like.

[0067] The specific stacking structure of the display panel (10) will be described later.

[0068] FIG. 4 is a schematic planar layout of a touch layer according to one embodiment.

[0069] Referring to FIG. 4, the touch layer (or touch member) may include a touch area located in an active area (AAR) and a non-touch area located in an inactive area (NAR). In FIG. 4, for convenience of explanation, the overall shape of the touch member is simplified and the non-touch area is depicted as relatively wide; however, the shape of the touch area and the shape of the non-touch area may be substantially the same as the shapes of the active area (AAR) and the inactive area (NAR) described above.

[0070] The touch area of ​​the touch member may include a plurality of first sensing electrodes (IE1) (or first touch electrodes) and a plurality of second sensing electrodes (IE2) (or second touch electrodes). One of the first sensing electrode (IE1) and the second sensing electrode (IE2) may be a driving electrode and the other may be a sensing electrode. In this embodiment, the case where the first sensing electrode (IE1) is a driving electrode and the second sensing electrode (IE2) is a sensing electrode is exemplified.

[0071] A first sensing electrode (IE1) may be extended in a first direction (DR1). The first sensing electrode (IE1) may include a plurality of first sensor parts (SP1, or first touch sensor patterns) arranged along the first direction (DR1) and a first connection part (CP1, or first touch connection pattern) that electrically connects adjacent first sensor parts (SP1). A plurality of first sensing electrodes (IE1) may be arranged in a second direction (DR2).

[0072] The second sensing electrode (IE2) may be extended in a second direction (DR2). The second sensing electrode (IE2) may include a plurality of second sensor parts (SP2, or second touch sensor patterns) arranged in the second direction (DR2) and a second connection part (CP2, or second touch connection pattern) that electrically connects adjacent second sensor parts (SP2). A plurality of second sensing electrodes (IE2) may be arranged in a first direction (DR1).

[0073] Although the drawing illustrates a case where four first sensing electrodes (IE1) and six second sensing electrodes (IE2) are arranged, it is obvious that the number of first sensing electrodes (IE1) and second sensing electrodes (IE2) is not limited to what is illustrated above.

[0074] At least some of the first sensor parts (SP1) and second sensor parts (SP2) may be rhombus-shaped. Some of the first sensor parts (SP1) and second sensor parts (SP2) may have shapes that are cut from the rhombus shape. For example, all of the first sensor parts (SP1) and second sensor parts (SP2), except for the two ends in the extension direction, may be rhombus-shaped, and the first sensor parts (SP1) and second sensor parts (SP2) located at the two ends in the extension direction may each be triangular shapes formed by cutting the rhombus in half. The rhombus-shaped first sensor parts (SP1) and the rhombus-shaped second sensor parts (SP2) may have substantially the same size and shape as each other. The triangular-shaped first sensor parts (SP1) and the triangular-shaped second sensor parts (SP2) may have substantially the same size and shape as each other. However, the embodiments are not limited to those exemplified above, and the shape and size of the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) can be varied in many ways.

[0075] The first sensor part (SP1) of the first sensing electrode (IE1) and the second sensor part (SP2) of the second sensing electrode (IE2) may each be formed to include a planar pattern or a mesh pattern. However, they are not limited thereto, and the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) may be formed to include various shapes.

[0076] When the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2) are formed including a planar pattern, the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2) may be formed with a transparent conductive layer. When the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2) are formed including a mesh-type pattern arranged along a non-luminous region as exemplified in FIGS. 5 and FIGS. 7, etc., the propagation of emitted light may not be hindered even if an opaque low-resistance metal is applied. In the following description, the case where the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2) are each formed including a mesh-type pattern is described as an example, but is not limited thereto.

[0077] The first connecting part (CP1) can connect the rhombus or triangular corner portions of adjacent first sensor parts (SP1). The second connecting part (CP2) can connect the rhombus or triangular corner portions of adjacent second sensor parts (SP2). The width of the first connecting part (CP1) and the second connecting part (CP2) may be smaller than the width of the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2).

[0078] The first sensing electrode (IE1) and the second sensing electrode (IE2) can be insulated and intersected. Insulation between the first sensing electrode (IE1) and the second sensing electrode (IE2) can be ensured by being connected through a conductive layer located on a different layer in the intersecting area. The insulated intersecting of the first sensing electrode (IE1) and the second sensing electrode (IE2) can be achieved by a first connecting part (CP1) and / or a second connecting part (CP2). For the insulated intersecting, at least one of the first connecting part (CP1) and the second connecting part (CP2) may be located on a different layer from the first sensing electrode (IE1) and the second sensing electrode (IE2).

[0079] For example, the first sensor part (SP1) of the first sensing electrode (IE1) and the second sensor part (SP2) of the second sensing electrode (IE2) are made of a conductive layer located in the same layer, and the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) themselves may not intersect or overlap each other. Adjacent first sensor part (SP1) and second sensor part (SP2) may be physically separated from each other.

[0080] The second connection part (CP2) is made of the same conductive layer as the second sensor part (SP2) and can connect adjacent second sensor parts (SP2). The first sensor parts (SP1) adjacent to the first sensing electrode (IE1) are physically separated around the area through which the second connection part (CP2) passes. The first connection part (CP1) connecting the first sensor parts (SP1) is made of a different conductive layer from the first sensor part (SP1) and can cross the area of ​​the second sensing electrode (IE2). The first connection part (CP1) can be electrically connected to each adjacent first sensor part (SP1) through contact.

[0081] There may be multiple first connection parts (CP1). For example, although not limited thereto, the first connection part (CP1) may include one first connection part (CP1_1, or first sub-connection part) that overlaps and passes through the second sensing electrode (IE2) on one side adjacent to it, and another first connection part (CP1_2, or second sub-connection part) that overlaps and passes through the second sensing electrode (IE2) on the other side adjacent to it. If multiple first connection parts (CP1) are provided to connect two adjacent first sensor parts (SP1), the disconnection of the first sensing electrode (IE1) can be prevented even if one of them is disconnected due to static electricity or the like.

[0082] Adjacent first sensor units (SP1) and second sensor units (SP2) can form a unit sensing area (SUT) (see FIG. 5). For example, centered on the area where the first sensing electrode (IE1) and the second sensing electrode (IE2) intersect, half of the two adjacent first sensor units (SP1) and half of the two adjacent second sensor units (SP2) can form a single square or rectangle. In this way, the area defined by the half areas of the two adjacent first sensor units (SP1) and second sensor units (SP2) can become a single unit sensing area (SUT). Multiple unit sensing areas (SUTs) can be arranged in a row-column direction.

[0083] In each unit sensing area (SUT), the presence of a touch input can be determined by measuring the capacitance value between adjacent first sensor units (SP1) and second sensor units (SP2), and the corresponding location can be calculated as the touch input coordinates. Touch detection can be performed using a mutual capacitance method, but is not limited thereto.

[0084] Each unit sensing area (SUT) may be larger than the size of a pixel. For example, a unit sensing area (SUT) may correspond to multiple pixels. The length of one side of a unit sensing area (SUT) may be in the range of 4 to 5 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0085] A plurality of touch signal wires are arranged on the outer side of the touch area. The plurality of touch signal wires may be arranged in an inactive area (NAR, see FIG. 1). The touch signal wires may extend from a touch pad portion (TPA1, TPA2) located in a sub-area (SR, see FIG. 1) through a bending area (BR, see FIG. 1) to an inactive area (NAR, see FIG. 1) of a main area (MR, see FIG. 1).

[0086] A plurality of touch signal wires includes a plurality of touch driving wires (Tx) and a plurality of touch sensing wires (Rx). In one embodiment, the plurality of touch signal wires may further include a touch ground wire (G) and / or a touch anti-static wire (ES).

[0087] The touch driving wiring (Tx) is connected to the first sensing electrode (IE1). In one embodiment, a plurality of touch driving wirings (Tx) may be connected to a single first sensing electrode (IE1). For example, the touch driving wiring (Tx) may include a first touch driving wiring (Tx1_1, Tx2_1, Tx3_1, Tx4_1) connected to the lower end of the first sensing electrode (IE1) and a second touch driving wiring (Tx1_2, Tx2_2, Tx3_2, Tx4_2) connected to the upper end of the first sensing electrode (IE1). The first touch driving wiring (Tx1_1, Tx2_1, Tx3_1, Tx4_1) may extend from the touch signal wiring pad portion (TPA1) toward one side of the first direction (DR1) and be connected to the lower end of the first sensing electrode (IE1). The second touch driving wiring (Tx1_2, Tx2_2, Tx3_2, Tx4_2) extends from the touch signal wiring pad portion (TPA1) to one side of the first direction (DR1) and bypasses the left edge of the touch area and can be connected to the upper end of the first sensing electrode (IE1).

[0088] The touch sensing wiring (Rx) is connected to the second sensing electrode (IE2). In one embodiment, one touch sensing wiring (Rx) may be connected to one second sensing electrode (IE2). Each touch sensing wiring (Rx1, Rx2, Rx3, Rx4, Rx5, Rx6) may extend from the touch signal wiring pad portion (TPA2) toward one side of the first direction (DR1) and extend toward the right edge of the touch area to be connected to the right end of the second sensing electrode (IE2).

[0089] A touch anti-static wiring (ES) may be disposed at the outermost part of the touch signal wiring. In one embodiment, the touch anti-static wiring may include a first touch anti-static wiring (ES1), a second touch anti-static wiring (ES2), a third touch anti-static wiring (ES3), and a fourth touch anti-static wiring (ES4). The first to fourth touch anti-static wirings (ES1, ES2, ES3, ES4) may surround the touch area and signal wiring in a ring shape.

[0090] The first touch anti-static wiring (ES1) can cover the outer side of the touch signal wiring located on the right. The second touch anti-static wiring (ES2) can cover the inner side of the touch signal wiring located on the right. The third touch anti-static wiring (ES3) can cover the inner side of the touch signal wiring located on the left and the outer side of the touch signal wiring extending in the second direction (DR2) from the lower side of the touch area. The fourth touch anti-static wiring (ES4) can cover the outer side of the touch signal wiring located on the left and the outer side of the touch signal wiring extending in the second direction (DR2) from the upper side of the touch area.

[0091] A touch ground wire (G) may be placed between signal wires. The touch ground wire (G) may include a first touch ground wire (G1), a second touch ground wire (G2), a third touch ground wire (G3), a fourth touch ground wire (G4), and a fifth touch ground wire (G5). The first touch ground wire (G1) may be placed between a touch sensing wire (Rx) and a first touch anti-static wire (ES1). The second touch ground wire (G2) may be placed between a second touch anti-static wire (ES2) and a touch sensing wire (Rx). The third touch ground wire (G3) may be placed between a first touch driving wire (Tx1_1, Tx2_1, Tx3_1, Tx4_1) and a third touch anti-static wire (ES3). The fourth touch grounding wire (G4) can be placed between the first touch driving wires (Tx1_1, Tx2_1, Tx3_1, Tx4_1) and the second touch driving wires (Tx1_2, Tx2_2, Tx3_2, Tx4_2). The fifth touch grounding wire (G5) can be placed between the second touch driving wires (Tx1_2, Tx2_2, Tx3_2, Tx4_2) and the fourth touch anti-static wire (ES4).

[0092] Figure 5 is a partial enlarged view of the touch area of ​​Figure 4. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view cut along the line VI-VI' of Figure 5.

[0093] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, the touch member may include a base layer (205), a first touch conductive layer (210) on the base layer (205), a first touch insulating layer (215) on the first touch conductive layer (210), a second touch conductive layer (220) on the first touch insulating layer (215), and a second touch insulating layer (230) covering the second touch conductive layer (220).

[0094] Specifically, a first touch conductive layer (210) is disposed on the base layer (205). The first touch conductive layer (210) is covered by a first touch insulating layer (215). The first touch insulating layer (215) insulates the first touch conductive layer (210) from the second touch conductive layer (220). A second touch conductive layer (220) is disposed on the first touch insulating layer (215). The second touch insulating layer (230) can cover and protect the second touch conductive layer (220).

[0095] The base layer (205) may include an inorganic insulating material. For example, the base layer (205) may include a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer. In some embodiments, the base layer (205) may be replaced with a second inorganic film (193) constituting a thin film encapsulation layer described later.

[0096] The first touch conductive layer (210) and the second touch conductive layer (220) may each include a metal or a transparent conductive layer. The metal may include aluminum, titanium, copper, molybdenum, silver, or an alloy thereof. The transparent conductive layer may include a transparent conductive oxide such as ITO (indium tin oxide), IZO (indium zinc oxide), ZnO (zinc oxide), ITZO (indium tin zinc oxide), a conductive polymer such as PEDOT, a metal nanowire, graphene, etc. As described above, when the first touch conductive layer (210) and the second touch conductive layer (220) are placed on a non-luminous region, even if they are made of a low-resistance opaque metal, they may not hinder the propagation of the emitted light.

[0097] The first touch conductive layer (210) and / or the second touch conductive layer (220) may include a conductive layer with a multilayer structure. For example, the first touch conductive layer (210) and / or the second touch conductive layer (220) may have a three-layer structure of titanium / aluminum / titanium.

[0098] In one embodiment, the first connection part (CP1) described above may be made of a first touch conductive layer (210), and the first sensor part (SP1), the second sensor part (SP2), and the second connection part (CP2) may be made of a second touch conductive layer (220). That is, the first touch conductive layer (210) may include the first connection part (CP1), and the second touch conductive layer (220) may include the first sensor part (SP1), the second sensor part (SP2), and the second connection part (CP2). However, it is not limited thereto, and contrary to the example, the first connection part (CP1) may be made of the second touch conductive layer (220), and the sensor part (SP1, SP2) and the second connection part (CP2) may be made of the first touch conductive layer (210). The touch signal wiring may be composed of a first touch conductive layer (210) or a second touch conductive layer (220), or may be composed of a first touch conductive layer (210) and a second touch conductive layer (220) connected by a contact. Additionally, the touch conductive layers constituting each component of the sensing electrode or signal wiring can be varied in various ways.

[0099] The first touch insulating layer (215) and the second touch insulating layer (230) may include an inorganic material or an organic material. In one embodiment, either the first touch insulating layer (215) or the second touch insulating layer (230) may include an inorganic material, and the other may include an organic material. In one embodiment, the first touch insulating layer (215) may include a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer, etc. The second touch insulating layer (230) may include at least one of an acrylic resin, a methacrylate resin, a polyisoprene, a vinyl resin, an epoxy resin, a urethane resin, a cellulose resin, a siloxane resin, a polyimide resin, a polyamide resin, and a perylene resin. When the second touch insulating layer (230) includes an organic material, the upper surface may be generally flat despite the step difference at the bottom.

[0100] The first touch insulating layer (215) may include a contact hole (CNT_T). Through the contact hole (CNT_T), a first touch conductive layer (210) (e.g., a first connection part (CP1)) and a part of the second touch conductive layer (220) (e.g., a first sensor part (SP1)) may be electrically connected. Through the first touch conductive layer (210) (e.g., a first connection part (CP1)), the first sensor part (SP1) of the first sensing electrode (IE1), separated by the second sensing electrode (IE2), may be electrically connected.

[0101] Additionally, although not illustrated, an insulating layer may be further disposed on the second touch conductive layer (220). The insulating layer may include an inorganic material or an organic material. If the insulating layer includes an organic material, the upper surface may be generally flat despite the step difference at the bottom.

[0102] FIG. 7 is a layout diagram showing the relative arrangement relationship between the pixels of a display unit and the mesh-type pattern of a touch member according to one embodiment.

[0103] Referring to FIG. 7, the display area of ​​the active area (AAR) includes a plurality of pixels. Each pixel includes a light-emitting area (EMA). The light-emitting area (EMA) overlaps with the opening of the pixel defining film (126, see FIG. 10) and can be defined by it. A non-light-emitting area (NEM) is disposed between the light-emitting areas (EMA) of each pixel. The non-light-emitting area (NEM) overlaps with the pixel defining film (126, see FIG. 10) and can be defined by it. The non-light-emitting area (NEM) can surround the light-emitting area (EMA). The non-light-emitting area (NEM) has a grid shape or mesh shape arranged along a diagonal direction (fourth direction (DR4) and fifth direction (DR5)) that intersects the first direction (DR1) and second direction (DR2) in the plan view.

[0104] The pixel may include a first color pixel (e.g., a red pixel), a second color pixel (e.g., a blue pixel), and a third color pixel (e.g., a green pixel). The shape of the light-emitting region (EMA) of each color pixel may generally be an octagon, a square with rounded corners, or a rhombus. However, it is not limited thereto, and the shape of each light-emitting region (EMA) may be a circle, a rhombus, other polygons, a polygon with rounded corners, etc.

[0105] In one embodiment, the shape of the light-emitting region (EMA_R) of the first color pixel and the shape of the light-emitting region (EMA_B) of the second color pixel may each have a shape similar to the other, such as a rhombus shape with rounded corners. The light-emitting region (EMA_B) of the second color pixel may be larger than the light-emitting region (EMA_R) of the first color pixel.

[0106] The light-emitting region (EMA_G) of the third color pixel may be smaller than the size of the light-emitting region (EMA_R) of the first color pixel. The light-emitting region (EMA_G) of the third color pixel may be tilted in a diagonal direction (fourth direction (DR4) and fifth direction (DR5)) and may have an octagonal shape with a maximum width in the tilted direction. The third color pixel may include a third color pixel in which the light-emitting region (EMA_G1) is tilted in the first diagonal direction (fourth direction (DR4)) and a third color pixel in which the light-emitting region (EMA_G2) is tilted in the second diagonal direction (fifth direction (DR5)).

[0107] Each color pixel can be arranged in various ways. In one embodiment, a first color pixel (e.g., red pixel) and a second color pixel (e.g., blue pixel) may be alternately arranged to form a first row along a second direction (DR2), and a second row adjacent thereto may have a third color pixel (e.g., green pixel) arranged along the second direction (DR2). Pixels belonging to the second row (third color pixels) may be arranged in a staggered manner in the second direction (DR2) relative to pixels belonging to the first row. In the second row, third color pixels tilted in the first diagonal direction and third color pixels tilted in the second diagonal direction may be alternately arranged along the second direction (DR2). The number of third color pixels belonging to the second row may be twice the number of first color pixels or second color pixels belonging to the first row.

[0108] The third row has the same arrangement of color pixels as the first row, but the order of arrangement may be reversed. That is, the second color pixel may be placed in the third row, which belongs to the same column as the first color pixel of the first row, and the first color pixel may be placed in the third row, which belongs to the same column as the second color pixel of the first row. The fourth row has the same arrangement of third color pixels as the second row, but the order of arrangement may be reversed when viewed based on the shape tilted in the diagonal direction. That is, the third color pixel tilted in the second diagonal direction may be placed in the fourth row, which belongs to the same column as the third color pixel tilted in the first diagonal direction of the second row, and the third color pixel tilted in the first diagonal direction may be placed in the fourth row, which belongs to the same column as the third color pixel tilted in the second diagonal direction of the second row.

[0109] The arrangement of the first to fourth rows above may be repeated along the first direction (DR1). However, it goes without saying that the arrangement of pixels is not limited to the examples given above.

[0110] The first sensor unit (SP1), the second sensor unit (SP2), the first connection unit (CP1), and the second connection unit (CP2) may be placed in a non-luminescent region (NEM). The first sensor unit (SP1), the second sensor unit (SP2), and the first connection unit (CP1) may include a mesh-type pattern. That is, the first sensor unit (SP1), the second sensor unit (SP2), and the first connection unit (CP1) may be formed of a mesh-type pattern. Additionally, although not illustrated, the second connection unit (CP2) may include a mesh-type pattern. In other words, the first sensor unit (SP1), the second sensor unit (SP2), and the first connection unit (CP1) have a grid shape or a mesh shape arranged along a diagonal direction (fourth direction (DR4) and fifth direction (DR5)) that intersects the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2) in the plan view.

[0111] The first sensor unit (SP1), the second sensor unit (SP2), the first connection unit (CP1), and the second connection unit (CP2) may be arranged along the boundary of the pixel in the non-luminous region (NEM). The first sensor unit (SP1), the second sensor unit (SP2), the first connection unit (CP1), and the second connection unit (CP2) may not overlap with the luminous region (EMA). The width of the first sensor unit (SP1), the second sensor unit (SP2), the first connection unit (CP1), and the second connection unit (CP2) may be smaller than the width of the non-luminous region (NEM).

[0112] When the first sensor unit (SP1), the second sensor unit (SP2), and the first connection unit (CP1) include a mesh-type pattern, the area exposed by the mesh-type pattern of the first sensor unit (SP1), the second sensor unit (SP2), and the first connection unit (CP1) may have a substantial rhombus shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0113] The first sensor unit (SP1), the second sensor unit (SP2), and the first connection unit (CP1) can expose a light-emitting region (EMA). In other words, the mesh-type pattern of each of the first sensor unit (SP1), the second sensor unit (SP2), and the first connection unit (CP1) can expose a light-emitting region (EMA). The size of the area exposed by the mesh-type pattern may be the same, but it may differ depending on the size of the light-emitting region (EMA) exposed by the mesh-type pattern, or it may differ independently thereof. Additionally, although the drawing illustrates a case where one exposed area corresponds to one light-emitting region (EMA), it is not limited thereto, and one exposed area may correspond to two or more light-emitting regions (EMA).

[0114] The first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2) can overlap with most of the area of ​​the first connection unit (CP1). The first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2) can cover most of the area of ​​the first connection unit (CP1). In other words, the first connection unit (CP1) can be positioned across the area where the first sensor unit (SP1) is positioned and the area where the second sensor unit (SP2) is positioned, and in this case, the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2) can overlap with the first connection unit (CP1), excluding mutually disconnected areas. Accordingly, even if the first connection unit (CP1) is formed with a different conductive layer than the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2), the first connection unit (CP1) can suppress or prevent visible defects.

[0115] The first connection portion (CP1) may include a first connection area (CA1, see FIG. 8) and a second connection area (CA2, see FIG. 8) having different line widths. The second connection area (CA2, see FIG. 8), which has a relatively larger width, may be placed in an area where the adjacent first sensor portion (SP1) and the second sensor portion (SP2) are spaced apart, and accordingly, short circuit defects between the first sensor portion (SP1) and the second sensor portion (SP2) can be suppressed or prevented. This will be explained below.

[0116] FIG. 8 is a plan view of a first connection part according to one embodiment. FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of area A of FIG. 7. FIG. 9 illustrates the area around the second area (CA2) of the first connection part (CP1) according to one embodiment.

[0117] Referring to FIGS. 7 through 9, the first connecting portion (CP1) may include a first connecting area (CA1) and a second connecting area (CA2) having different line widths. The line width of the second connecting area (CA2) may be larger than the line width of the first connecting area (CA1). Each of the first sub-connecting portion (CP1_1) and the second sub-connecting portion (CP1_2) of the first connecting portion (CP1) may include the first connecting area (CA1) and the second connecting area (CA2). The details regarding the first connecting area (CA1) and the second connecting area (CA2) of the first connecting portion (CP1) described below may be applied equally to each of the first sub-connecting portion (CP1_1) and the second sub-connecting portion (CP1_2).

[0118] Specifically, the first sensor part (SP1) includes a first base part (BS1) and a first protrusion (PT1), and the second sensor part (SP2) may include a second base part (BS2) and a second protrusion (PT2).

[0119] The first protrusion (PT1) may protrude from the first base (BS1) in a first diagonal direction (fourth direction (DR4)) or a second diagonal direction (fifth direction (DR5)). For example, the first protrusion (PT1) may form part of the mesh pattern of the first sensor part (SP1) and may protrude from the first base (BS1), which extends in the first diagonal direction (fourth direction (DR4)), in the second diagonal direction (fifth direction (DR5)). The first protrusion (PT1) may protrude toward the second sensor part (SP2).

[0120] The second protrusion (PT2) may protrude from the second base (BS2) in a first diagonal direction (fourth direction (DR4)) or a second diagonal direction (fifth direction (DR5)). For example, the second protrusion (PT2) may form part of the mesh pattern of the second sensor part (SP2) and may protrude from the second base (BS2), which extends in the first diagonal direction (fourth direction (DR4)), in the second diagonal direction (fifth direction (DR5)). The second protrusion (PT2) may protrude toward the first sensor part (SP1).

[0121] A plurality of first sensor parts (SP1) may be arranged to face each other in a planar manner with respect to at least a portion of a plurality of second sensor parts (SP2). In other words, the first protrusion (PT1) of the first sensor part (SP1) and the second protrusion (PT2) of the second sensor part (SP2) protruding toward each other may be separated and electrically insulated, and the first protrusion (PT1) and the second protrusion (PT2) may face each other in a planar manner.

[0122] The side of the second connecting area (CA2) of the first connecting part (CP1) may be positioned further outward than the side of the first protrusion (PT1) and the side of the second protrusion (PT2). Here, the side of the second connecting area (CA2), the side of the protrusion (PT1), and the side of the second protrusion (PT2) may refer to surfaces positioned on one side and the other side in a direction perpendicular to their respective extension directions. For example, the sides of the second connecting area (CA2), the protrusion (PT1), and the second protrusion (PT2) extended in the second diagonal direction (the fifth direction (DR5)) may refer to surfaces located on one side and the other side in the first diagonal direction (the fourth direction (DR4)) of the second connecting area (CA2), the protrusion (PT1), and the second protrusion (PT2), respectively.

[0123] In addition, the second connecting part (CP2) may include a base and a protrusion, and the details regarding the second base (BS2) and the second protrusion (PT2) of the second sensor part (SP2) described above may be applied substantially identically.

[0124] The first connection area (CA1) may overlap with the first sensor unit (SP1) or the second sensor unit (SP2). At least a portion of the second connection area (CA2) may be exposed by the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2) which are separated from each other. At least a portion of the second connection area (CA2) may not overlap with the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2). In other words, at least a portion of the second connection area (CA2) may be positioned between the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2) in a planar manner. That is, at least a portion of the second connection area (CA2) in a planar manner may be positioned between the first protrusion (PT1) of the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second protrusion (PT2) of the second sensor unit (SP2) which face each other. However, it is not limited thereto, and the second connection area (CA2) may be positioned between the first sensor part (SP1) and the second connection part (CP2) that are mutually separated in a plane.

[0125] A second connection area (CA2) may be positioned between adjacent light-emitting areas (EMA). The second connection area (CA2) may be positioned between light-emitting areas (EMA) arranged along a first diagonal direction (fourth direction (DR4)) or between light-emitting areas (EMA) arranged along a second diagonal direction (fifth direction (DR5)). For example, the second connection area (CA2) may be positioned between the light-emitting area (EMA_R) of a first color pixel and the light-emitting area (EMA_G2) of a third color pixel that are adjacent to each other along the first diagonal direction (fourth direction (DR4)).

[0126] The first connecting area (CA1) has a first width (WTH1), and the second connecting area may have a second width (WTH2). That is, the line width of the first connecting area (CA1) has a first width (WTH1), and the line width of the second connecting area may have a second width (WTH2). The second width (WTH2) may be larger than the first width (WTH1). Although not limited thereto, for example, the second width (WTH2) may be within a range of 1.1 to 10 times the first width (WTH1), within a range of 1.1 to 3 times, or within a range of 1.2 to 1.5 times.

[0127] The size of the first width (WTH1) may be, for example, 3.0 µm, within the range of 1.0 µm to 5.0 µm, within the range of 2.0 µm to 4.0 µm, or within the range of 2.5 µm to 3.5 µm, but is not limited thereto. The size of the second width (WTH2) may be, for example, 4.0 µm, within the range of 2.0 µm to 10.0 µm, within the range of 2.0 µm to 8.0 µm, within the range of 2.0 µm to 6.0 µm, or within the range of 3.5 µm to 4.5 µm, but is not limited thereto.

[0128] The first width (WTH1) and the second width (WTH2) may refer to the width in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the first connecting area (CA1) and the second connecting area (CA2) are extended. For example, the first width (WTH1) of the first connecting area (CA1) of the first connecting part (CP) extending in the first diagonal direction (fourth direction (DR4)) may refer to the width in the second diagonal direction (fifth direction (DR5)), and the second width (WTH2) of the second connecting area (CA2) may refer to the width in the second diagonal direction (fifth direction (DR5)).

[0129] When the first width (WTH1) and the second width (WTH2) each have a size within the range described above, the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) can be smoothly separated even if they are mis-aligned with the first connection part (CP1). The first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) can be smoothly separated despite the process margins of the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) and the process margin of the first connection part (CP1).

[0130] Specifically, even if the conductive layer on which the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) are formed (e.g., the second conductive layer before patterning (220, see FIG. 6)) and / or the conductive layer on which the first connection part (CP1) is formed (e.g., the first conductive layer before patterning (220, see FIG. 6)) is not placed at the intended position due to misalignment or process margin, the conductive layer in the area where the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) are disconnected can be placed in the second connection area (CA2). In other words, even if the conductive layer on which the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) are formed (e.g., the second conductive layer before patterning (220, see FIG. 6)) and / or the conductive layer on which the first connection part (CP1) is formed (e.g., the first conductive layer before patterning (220, see FIG. 6)) is moved to one side or the other side of the first diagonal direction (the fourth direction (DR4)) due to misalignment and / or process margin, the conductive layer in the area where the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) are disconnected can still be placed in the second connection area (CA2).

[0131] In this case, the conductive layer in the region where the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) are separated may have substantially the same thickness (thickness in the thickness direction (third direction (DR3))). When the region where the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) are separated is etched, since the separated region has substantially the same thickness, it is possible to suppress or prevent the conductive layer from remaining in the separated region.

[0132] Accordingly, the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2) can be smoothly patterned and separated, and the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2) can be smoothly electrically insulated. That is, the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2) are not electrically conductive to each other and may not be connected through a capacitor. Short circuit defects between the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2) can be suppressed or prevented, and furthermore, the reliability of the touch member and the reliability of the display panel including the touch member can be improved.

[0133] The non-emissive regions (NEM) between adjacent emissive regions (EMA) may have a third width (WTH3). The third width (WTH3) may refer to the distance between adjacent emissive regions (EMA). The second width (WTH2) may be smaller than the third width (WTH3). Although not limited thereto, for example, the second width (WTH2) may be within the range of 0.1 to 0.99 times the third width (WTH3), within the range of 0.2 to 0.8 times, or within the range of 0.3 to 0.5 times.

[0134] When the second width (WTH2) has a size within the above range, the first connecting part (CP1) is positioned within the entire non-emissive region (NEM) and may not affect the light emitted from the emissive region (EMA). That is, when the second width (WTH2) has a size within the above range, even if the first connecting part (CP1) includes a second connecting region (CA2) having a width greater than the width of the first connecting region (CA1), the light emitted from the emissive region (EMA) may not be affected by blocking or reflection by the first connecting part (CP1). Therefore, a reduction in brightness of the display panel (10, see FIG. 1) can be prevented.

[0135] The line width of the second sensor part (SP2) may have a fourth width (WTH4). The fourth width (WTH4) may refer to a width perpendicular to the direction in which the second base part (BS2) and the second protrusion (PT2) forming the mesh pattern extend. The first sensor part (SP1) may have substantially the same width as the second sensor part (SP2), but is not limited thereto.

[0136] The fourth width (WTH4) may be substantially the same as the first width (WTH1). In this case, the fourth width (WTH4) may be smaller than the second width (WTH2), and the relationship between the second width (WTH2) and the first width (WTH1) described above may be substantially the same as that between the second width (WTH2) and the fourth width (WTH4). The first area (CA1) of the first connection part (CP1) may completely overlap with the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2), but is not limited thereto.

[0137] The first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) may be separated by a separation distance (GP). In other words, the first protrusion (PT1) of the first sensor part (SP1) and the second protrusion (PT2) of the second sensor part (SP2) facing each other may be separated by a separation distance (GP). Although not limited thereto, the separation distance (GP) may be, for example, 3.5 μm, within the range of 1.0 μm to 6.0 μm, within the range of 2.0 μm to 5.0 μm, or within the range of 3.0 μm to 4.0 μm, but is not limited thereto. When the separation distance (GP) is within the above range, the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) may be separated and electrically insulated despite process margins and / or misalignment, and visibility of the lower first connection part (CP1) may be suppressed or prevented.

[0138] The second connection region (CA2) of the first connection portion (CP1) may be extended by an extension length (LTH). In other words, the second connection region (CA2) of the first connection portion (CP1) may be extended by an extension length (LTH) in the second diagonal direction (the fifth direction (DR5)). The extension length (LTH) is not limited thereto, but may be, for example, 4.5 μm, within the range of 2.0 μm to 7.0 μm, within the range of 3.0 μm to 6.0 μm, or within the range of 4.0 μm to 5.0 μm.

[0139] The extended length (LTH) of the second connection area (CA2) may be greater than the separation distance (GP) between the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2). In this case, the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2) can be separated more smoothly during the patterning process of the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2). However, the extended length (LTH) of the second connection area (CA2) is not limited to this.

[0140] The cross-sectional structure of the display device is described below.

[0141] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along the XX' line of Figure 7.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 10, the substrate (SUB) of the display device (1) may be made of an insulating material such as a polymer resin. Examples of the polymer material include polyethersulfone (PES), polyacrylate (PA), polyarylate (PAR), polyetherimide (PEI), polyethylene napthalate (PEN), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyallylate, polyimide (PI), polycarbonate (PC), cellulose triacetate (CAT), cellulose acetate propionate (CAP), or combinations thereof. The substrate (100) may be a flexible substrate capable of bending, folding, rolling, etc. Examples of materials forming the flexible substrate include polyimide (PI), but are not limited thereto.

[0143] An anode electrode (170) is disposed on the substrate (SUB). Although the drawing illustrates a case where the anode electrode (170) is disposed directly on the substrate (SUB) for convenience of explanation, as is widely known in the art, a plurality of thin-film transistors and signal wiring may be disposed between the substrate (SUB) and the anode electrode (170).

[0144] The anode electrode (170) may be a pixel electrode placed in each pixel. The anode electrode (170) may have a laminated structure in which a layer of a material with a high work function, such as indium-tin-oxide (ITO), indium-zinc-oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), or indium oxide (In2O3), and a layer of a reflective material, such as silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), lead (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), lithium (Li), calcium (Ca), or a mixture thereof, are laminated. The layer with a high work function may be placed above the reflective material layer and positioned close to the organic layer (175). The anode electrode (170) may have a multilayer structure of ITO / Mg, ITO / MgF, ITO / Ag, or ITO / Ag / ITO, but is not limited thereto.

[0145] A pixel defining film (126) may be disposed on a substrate (SUB). The pixel defining film (126) is disposed on an anode electrode (170) and may include an opening that exposes the anode electrode (170). A light-emitting region (EMA) and a non-light-emitting region (NEM) may be separated by the pixel defining film (126) and the opening. The pixel defining film (126) may include an organic insulating material. The pixel defining film (126) may also include an inorganic material.

[0146] A light-emitting layer is disposed on the anode electrode (170) exposed by the pixel defining film (126). The light-emitting layer may include an organic layer (175). The organic layer (175) includes an organic light-emitting layer and may further include a hole injection / transport layer and / or an electron injection / transport layer.

[0147] A cathode electrode (180) may be disposed on the organic layer (175). The cathode electrode (180) may be a common electrode disposed across the entire surface without distinguishing between pixels. The anode electrode (170), the organic layer (175), and the cathode electrode (180) may each constitute an organic light-emitting device.

[0148] The cathode electrode (180) may not only be in contact with the organic layer (175) but also with the upper surface of the pixel definition film (126). The cathode electrode (180) may be formed conformally to the lower structure to reflect the step difference of the lower structure.

[0149] The cathode electrode (180) may include a layer of material with a low work function, such as Li, Ca, LiF / Ca, LiF / Al, Al, Mg, Ag, Pt, Pd, Ni, Au, Nd, Ir, Cr, BaF, Ba, or a compound or mixture thereof (e.g., a mixture of Ag and Mg). The cathode electrode (180) may further include a transparent metal oxide layer disposed on the layer of material with a low work function.

[0150] A thin film encapsulation layer (190) comprising a first inorganic film (191), an organic film (192), and a second inorganic film (193) is disposed on the upper portion of the cathode electrode (180). The first inorganic film (191) and the second inorganic film (193) may each comprise an inorganic insulating material. The organic film (192) may comprise an organic insulating material.

[0151] A touch layer (TSL) is disposed on the upper part of the thin film encapsulation layer (190), and a base layer (205), a first touch insulating layer (215), a second touch conductive layer (220), and a second touch insulating layer (230) may be disposed sequentially, and a redundant description of each layer is omitted.

[0152] The second touch conductive layer (220) may be placed overlapping with the pixel defining film (126) and within the non-luminous region (NEM). The second touch conductive layer (220) forms a mesh-type pattern of the sensor part and, since it does not overlap with the luminous region (EMA), it does not interfere with light emission and may not be visible to the user.

[0153] An anti-reflective layer (RPL) is disposed on the second touch insulating layer (230), and a protective layer (WDL) is disposed on the anti-reflective layer (RPL). An adhesive layer (OC) may be further disposed between the anti-reflective layer (RPL) and the protective layer (WDL). The anti-reflective layer (RPL) and the protective layer (WDL) may be bonded by the adhesive layer (OC). The adhesive layer (OC) may be optically transparent. The adhesive layer (OC) may include a transparent adhesive member, such as, for example, an optically clear adhesive (OCA) film or an optically clear resin (OCR).

[0154] When the anti-reflection layer (RPL) is provided in the form of a polarizing film, the low-refractive film (LR), the anti-reflection layer (RPL), and the adhesive layer (OC) may have substantially the same refractive index, and refraction or total reflection at the boundaries of each component may be suppressed or prevented, thereby improving light emission efficiency and reducing external light reflection.

[0155] Other embodiments are described below. In the following embodiments, descriptions of components identical to those already described are omitted or simplified, and the explanation focuses on the differences.

[0156] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of a portion of the plan view of a touch member according to another embodiment.

[0157] Referring to FIG. 11, the touch layer (TSL_1) according to the present embodiment differs from the embodiment of FIG. 9 in that the second connection area (CA2_1) of the first connection portion (CP1_1) includes a shape protruding in one direction perpendicular to the direction of extension. For example, the second connection area (CA2_1) extending in the second diagonal direction (the fifth direction (DR5)) may include a shape protruding in one direction in the first diagonal direction (the fourth direction (DR4)).

[0158] In this case as well, the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2) can be smoothly patterned and separated, and the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2) can be smoothly electrically insulated. In addition, even if the spacing between each light-emitting region (EMA, see FIG. 7) is different, the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2) can be smoothly patterned by applying various shapes to the second connection region (CA2_1).

[0159] FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of a portion of the plan view of a touch member according to another embodiment.

[0160] Referring to FIG. 12, the second connection area (CA2_2) of the first connection portion (CP1_2) of the touch layer (TSL_2) according to the present embodiment differs from the embodiment of FIG. 9 in that it includes a first sub-connection area (CA21) and a second sub-connection area (CA22) having different widths. The first sub-connection area (CA21) includes a second width (WTH2), and the second sub-connection area (CA22) may include a fifth width (WHT5). The fifth width (WHT5) may be smaller than the second width (WTH2) and larger than the fourth width (WHT4) of the first sensor portion (SP1). The second sub-connection area (CA22) may be positioned between the first sub-connection area (CA21) and the first connection area (CA1).

[0161] In this case as well, the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) can be smoothly patterned and separated, and the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) can be smoothly electrically insulated. In addition, the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) can be smoothly patterned by applying various shapes to the second connection area (CA2_2).

[0162] FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of a portion of the plan view of a touch member according to another embodiment.

[0163] Referring to FIG. 13, the first protrusion (PT1_3) of the first sensor part (SP1) and the second protrusion (PT2_3) of the second sensor part (SP2) of the touch layer (TSL_3) according to the present embodiment differ from the embodiment of FIG. 9 in that their width decreases as they face the second connection area (CA2) of the first connection part (CP1). In other words, regarding the first protrusion (PT1_3) of the first sensor part (SP1) and the second protrusion (PT2_3) of the second sensor part (SP2) of the mutually opposing touch layer (TSL_3), the width of the first protrusion (PT1_3) of the first sensor part (SP1) decreases as it faces the second protrusion (PT2_3) of the second sensor part (SP2), and the width of the second protrusion (PT2_3) of the second sensor part (SP2) decreases as it faces the first protrusion (PT1_3) of the first sensor part (SP1).

[0164] However, this is not limited thereto, and in the case where the width of the mutually opposing first protrusion (PT1_3) and second protrusion (PT2_3) decreases as they face each other, the first connecting part (CP1) may not include the second connecting area (CA2) and may be composed of the first connecting area (CA1) over the entire area.

[0165] In this case as well, the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) can be smoothly patterned and separated, and the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) can be smoothly electrically insulated. Furthermore, as the width of the first protrusion (PT1_3) of the first sensor part (SP1) and the second protrusion (PT2_3) of the second sensor part (SP2) decreases as they move toward the second connection area (CA2) of the first connection part (CP1), the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) can be patterned more smoothly.

[0166] FIG. 14 is an enlarged view of a portion of the plan view of a touch member according to another embodiment.

[0167] Referring to FIG. 14, the first connection portion (CP1_4) of the touch layer (TSL_4) according to the present embodiment differs from the embodiment of FIG. 9 in that the entire area includes substantially the same width. The first connection portion (CP1_4) may include a second width (WHT2) in the entire area. The second width (WHT2) of the present embodiment may be substantially the same as the second width (WTH2) of the second connection area (CA2) of the first connection portion (CP1) of FIG. 9 described above.

[0168] In this case as well, the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) can be smoothly patterned and separated, and the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) can be smoothly electrically insulated. In addition, the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) can be smoothly patterned by applying various shapes to the first connection part (CP1_4).

[0169] FIG. 15 is an enlarged view of a portion of the plan view of a touch member according to another embodiment.

[0170] Referring to FIG. 15, the embodiment according to the present embodiment differs from the embodiment of FIG. 9 in that the extension length (LTH) of the second connection area (CA2_5) of the first connection part (CP1_5) of the touch layer (TSL_5) may be smaller than the separation distance (GP) between the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2). In this case, the second connection area (CA2_5) of the first connection part (CP1_5) may not overlap with the first sensor part (SP1) and the second detection part (PS2).

[0171] In this case as well, the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) can be smoothly patterned and separated, and the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) can be smoothly electrically insulated. In addition, by applying various shapes to the first connection part (CP1_5), the first sensor part (SP1) and the second sensor part (SP2) can be patterned more smoothly.

[0172] FIG. 16 is an enlarged view of a portion of the plan view of a touch member according to another embodiment.

[0173] Referring to FIG. 16, the touch layer (TSL_6) according to the present embodiment differs from the embodiment of FIG. 7 in that it further includes a first touch dummy pattern (DP1) and a second touch dummy pattern (DP2).

[0174] The first touch dummy pattern (DP1) and the second touch dummy pattern (DP2) are separated and spaced apart from the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2), and may include an island shape. The first touch dummy pattern (DP1) and the second touch dummy pattern (DP2) may be electrically insulated from the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2). The first touch dummy pattern (DP1) may be surrounded by the first sensor unit (SP1), and the second touch dummy pattern (DP2) may be surrounded by the second sensor unit (SP2), but is not limited thereto.

[0175] The first touch dummy pattern (DP1) and the second touch dummy pattern (DP2) may be formed of a second touch conductive layer (220, see FIG. 6). The first touch dummy pattern (DP1) and the second touch dummy pattern (DP2) may overlap with the first connection portion (CP1). Additionally, although not illustrated, the second connection area (CA2) of the first connection portion (CP1) may be positioned around one side and / or the other end of the first touch dummy pattern (DP1) and the second touch dummy pattern (DP2).

[0176] In this case as well, the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2) can be smoothly patterned and separated, and the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2) can be smoothly electrically insulated. In addition, by electrically insulating the portion overlapping with the first connection unit (CP1) (first touch dummy pattern (DP1) and second touch dummy pattern (DP2)) from the first sensor unit (SP1) and the second sensor unit (SP2), defects caused by mutual interference can be suppressed or prevented.

[0177] 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

[0178] 1: Display device 10: Display panel SUB: Substrate DRL: Circuit driving layer EML: Emissive layer ENL: Encapsulation layer TSL: Touch layer RPL: ​​Anti-reflective layer CP1: First connection part CA1: First connection area CA2: Second connection area CP2: Second connection part SP1: 1st sensor unit SP2: 2nd sensor unit DP: Touch dummy pattern WDL: Protective layer

Claims

Claim 1 Display panel; A touch member comprising a first touch conductive layer, a second touch conductive layer, and a first touch insulating film interposed at least partially between the first touch conductive layer and the second touch conductive layer, wherein the first touch conductive layer comprises a first touch connection pattern including a first connection area and a second connection area having a line width greater than that of the first connection area, and the second touch conductive layer comprises a plurality of first touch sensor patterns electrically connected by the first touch connection pattern, a plurality of second touch sensor patterns electrically insulated from the plurality of first touch sensor patterns, and a second touch connection pattern electrically connecting the plurality of second touch sensor patterns, wherein the second connection area of ​​the first touch connection pattern is disposed between the first touch sensor pattern and the second touch sensor pattern that face each other in a planar manner, and is located in an area that does not overlap with the first touch sensor pattern and the second touch sensor pattern, and the area of ​​the portion of the second connection area that overlaps with the first touch sensor pattern and the second touch sensor pattern is non-overlapping with the first touch sensor pattern and the second touch sensor pattern A display device smaller than the area of ​​a part. Claim 2 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the line width of the first connecting area has a first width, the line width of the second connecting area has a second width, and the second width is within the range of 1.1 to 10 times the first width. Claim 3 A display device according to claim 2, wherein the first width is within the range of 1.0㎛ to 5.0㎛ and the second width is within the range of 2.0㎛ to 10.0㎛. Claim 4 In claim 1, the first touch sensor pattern, the second touch sensor pattern, and the second touch connection pattern are a display device comprising a mesh pattern. Claim 5 A display device according to claim 4, further comprising a plurality of light-emitting regions that emit light and a non-light-emitting region surrounding the plurality of light-emitting regions, wherein the first touch connection pattern, the first touch sensor pattern, the second touch sensor pattern, and the second touch connection pattern are disposed in the non-light-emitting region. Claim 6 A display device according to claim 5, wherein the light-emitting region emits light of different colors and includes a first light-emitting region and a second light-emitting region adjacent to each other, wherein the width of the non-light-emitting region disposed between the first light-emitting region and the second light-emitting region is greater than the line width of the second connecting region. Claim 7 In claim 4, a display device in which the line width of the first touch sensor pattern and the line width of the second touch sensor pattern are smaller than the line width of the second connection area of ​​the first touch connection pattern. Claim 8 In claim 1, the first touch sensor pattern includes a first base and a first protrusion protruding from the first base toward the second touch sensor pattern, and the second touch sensor pattern includes a second base and a second protrusion protruding from the second base toward the first touch sensor pattern, and the first protrusion and the second protrusion are mutually opposite in a planar manner. Claim 9 In claim 8, the second connection area of ​​the first touch connection pattern is a display device in which the first protrusion and the second protrusion are positioned in a planar area facing each other. Claim 10 In claim 9, the first protrusion and the second protrusion are a display device in which the width narrows as they face each other. Claim 11 A display device according to claim 9, wherein the separation distance between the first protrusion and the second protrusion is greater than the extended length of the second connection area of ​​the first touch connection pattern, and the entire area of ​​the second connection area of ​​the first touch connection pattern does not overlap with the first touch sensor pattern and the second touch sensor pattern. Claim 12 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of second touch sensor patterns and the second touch connection pattern are integrally formed, and the plurality of first touch sensor patterns are electrically separated and electrically insulated from each other with the second touch connection pattern in between. Claim 13 A display device according to claim 12, wherein the plurality of first touch sensor patterns are arranged along a first direction, and the plurality of second touch sensor patterns are arranged along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. Claim 14 A display device according to claim 13, further comprising a touch driving wire electrically connected to the plurality of first touch sensor patterns and a touch sensing wire electrically connected to the plurality of second touch sensor patterns. Claim 15 In claim 1, the second connection area of ​​the first touch connection pattern is a display device that overlaps with the first touch sensor pattern and the second touch sensor pattern. Claim 16 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the first touch connection pattern further comprises a first portion extending from the second connection area and a second portion extending vertically from the first portion. Claim 17 delete Claim 18 delete Claim 19 delete Claim 20 delete

Citation Information

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