Display device

Abstract

A display device comprises a plurality of subpixels, each including a emitting portion and a sub-region disposed on both sides of a first direction of the emitting portion; a first electrode extending in the first direction and disposed in the emitting portion, and a second electrode spaced apart from the first electrode in a second direction and extending in the first direction; a first insulating layer disposed on the first electrode and the second electrode; and a plurality of emitting elements disposed on the first electrode and the second electrode in the emitting portion, wherein the second electrode includes an electrode stem portion extending in the first direction and a plurality of electrode branch portions branched from the electrode stem portion.

Description

Technology Field

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

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

[0003] There are self-luminous display devices that include a light-emitting element as a device for displaying images. Self-luminous display devices include organic light-emitting display devices that use organic materials as light-emitting materials as light-emitting elements, or inorganic light-emitting display devices that use inorganic materials as light-emitting materials. Prior art literature

[0004] Korean Published Patent Application No. 10-2020-0037911 (Published April 10, 2020) The problem to be solved

[0005] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a display device with a reduced number of wires by applying the same second power supply voltage to each of adjacent subpixels through the same second electrode.

[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 an embodiment for solving the above problem comprises: a plurality of subpixels, each comprising a emitting part and a sub-region disposed on both sides of a first direction of the emitting part; a first electrode extending in the first direction and disposed in the emitting part, and a second electrode spaced apart from the first electrode in a second direction and extended in the first direction; a first insulating layer disposed on the first electrode and the second electrode; and a plurality of light-emitting elements disposed on the first electrode and the second electrode in the emitting part, wherein the second electrode comprises an electrode stem portion extending in the first direction and a plurality of electrode branch portions branched from the electrode stem portion.

[0008] A display device according to another embodiment for solving the above problem comprises a plurality of subpixels, each including a emitting part and a sub-region disposed on both sides of a first direction of the emitting part; a first electrode extending in the first direction and disposed in the emitting part, and a second electrode spaced apart from the first electrode in a second direction and extended in the first direction; a first insulating layer disposed on the first electrode and the second electrode; a plurality of emitting elements disposed on the first electrode and the second electrode in the emitting part; a first bank pattern disposed at the center of the emitting part on the lower portion of the first electrode and the second electrode, and a second bank pattern disposed spaced apart from the first bank pattern; and a bank layer separating adjacent subpixels on the first insulating layer, wherein the emitting element is disposed between the spaced-apart first bank pattern and the second bank pattern, and the first insulating layer includes at least one opening pattern that overlaps with the bank layer.

[0009] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings. Effects of the invention

[0010] According to a display device according to one embodiment, the number of wires can be reduced by applying the same second power supply voltage to each of adjacent subpixels through the same second electrode.

[0011] 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

[0012] FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view of a display device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a layout diagram showing a subpixel according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a display panel cut along Q1-Q1' of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a plan view showing one pixel of a display device according to one embodiment. Figure 5 is a drawing showing the first subpixel of Figure 4. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the N1-N1' line, N2-N2' line, and N3-N3' line of Figure 5. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along the N4-N4' line, N5-N5' line, and N6-N6' line of Figure 6. Figure 8 is an enlarged view of part B of Figure 5. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line N7-N7' of Figure 8. FIGS. 10 and FIGS. 11 are drawings showing the shapes of electrodes in sub-regions during the manufacturing process of a display device. FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a light-emitting element according to one embodiment. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing outgasing through an opening hole of a first insulating layer according to one embodiment. FIG. 14 is a plan view showing one pixel of a display device according to another embodiment. FIG. 15 is a plan view showing one pixel of a display device according to another embodiment. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0013] 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.

[0014] Elements or layers referred to as "on" another element or layer include cases where another layer or element is interposed directly above or in the middle of another element. Likewise, "below," "left," and "right" refer to cases where they are interposed immediately adjacent to another element or where another layer or material is interposed in the middle. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same components.

[0015] 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.

[0016] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0017] FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view of a display device according to one embodiment.

[0018] Referring to FIG. 1, the display device (10) displays a video or a still image. The display device (10) may refer to any electronic device that provides a display screen. For example, a television, laptop, monitor, billboard, Internet of Things, mobile phone, smartphone, tablet PC (Personal Computer), electronic watch, smart watch, watch phone, head-mounted display, mobile communication terminal, electronic notebook, electronic book, PMP (Portable Multimedia Player), navigation, game console, digital camera, camcorder, etc. that provide a display screen may be included in the display device (10).

[0019] The display device (10) includes a display panel that provides a display screen. Examples of display panels include an inorganic light-emitting diode display panel, an organic light-emitting diode display panel, a quantum dot light-emitting diode display panel, a plasma display panel, a field emission display panel, etc. In the following examples, an inorganic light-emitting diode display panel is used as an example of a display panel, but it is not limited thereto, and if the same technical concept is applicable, it can be applied to other display panels.

[0020] The shape of the display device (10) can be varied in many ways. For example, the display device (10) may have a shape such as a horizontally elongated rectangle, a vertically elongated rectangle, a square, a rectangle with rounded corners (vertices), other polygons, or a circle. The shape of the display area (DPA) of the display device (10) may also be similar to the overall shape of the display device (10). In FIG. 1, a display device (10) in the shape of a rectangle with a long length in the second direction (DR2) is illustrated.

[0021] The display device (10) may include a display area (DPA) and a non-display area (NDA). The display area (DPA) is an area where the screen can be displayed, and the non-display area (NDA) is an area where the screen is not displayed. The display area (DPA) may also be referred to as an active area, and the non-display area (NDA) as an inactive area. The display area (DPA) may generally occupy the center of the display device (10).

[0022] The display area (DPA) may include a plurality of pixels (PX). The plurality of pixels (PX) may be arranged in a matrix direction. The shape of each pixel (PX) may be a planar rectangle or a square, but is not limited thereto, and may be a rhombus shape with each side tilted toward one direction. Each pixel (PX) may be arranged in a stripe type or a pentile type. Additionally, each of the pixels (PX) may include one or more light-emitting elements that emit light of a specific wavelength range to display a specific color.

[0023] A non-display area (NDA) may be placed around a display area (DPA). The non-display area (NDA) may surround the display area (DPA) in whole or in part. The display area (DPA) is rectangular in shape, and the non-display area (NDA) may be placed adjacent to the four sides of the display area (DPA). The non-display area (NDA) may form the bezel of the display device (10). In each non-display area (NDA), wiring or circuit drivers included in the display device (10) may be placed, or external devices may be mounted.

[0024] FIG. 2 is a layout diagram showing a subpixel according to one embodiment.

[0025] Referring to FIG. 2, a plurality of pixels (PX) may be arranged in a first direction (DR1) and a second direction (DR2) in a display area (DA). Each of the plurality of pixels (PX) may include a plurality of subpixels (SPX1, SPX2, SPX3). For example, each of the plurality of pixels (PX) may include three subpixels, namely a first subpixel (SPX1), a second subpixel (SPX2), and a third subpixel (SPX3), as shown in FIG. 2, but the number of subpixels of each of the plurality of pixels (PX) is not limited thereto. For example, each of the plurality of pixels (PX) may include four or more subpixels.

[0026] Multiple subpixels (SPX1, SPX2, SPX3) may be arranged in a first direction (DR1), but the arrangement direction of the multiple subpixels (SPX1, SPX2, SPX3) is not limited thereto. For example, multiple subpixels (SPX1, SPX2, SPX3) may be arranged in a first direction (DR1).

[0027] Each of the plurality of subpixels (SPX1, SPX2, SPX3) may include a light-emitting part and a light-blocking part. For example, the first subpixel (SPX1) may include a first light-emitting part (EMA1) and a light-blocking part (BA), the second subpixel (SPX2) may include a second light-emitting part (EMA2) and a light-blocking part (BA), and the third subpixel (SPX3) may include a third light-emitting part (EMA3) and a light-blocking part (BA).

[0028] The first light-emitting unit (EMA1), the second light-emitting unit (EMA2), and the third light-emitting unit (EMA3) can emit light of the same color. In this case, the first subpixel (SPX1) can convert the third-color light output from the first light-emitting unit (EMA1) into first-color light and output it. The second subpixel (SPX2) can convert the third-color light output from the second light-emitting unit (EMA2) into second-color light and output it. The third subpixel (SPX3) can output the third-color light output from the third light-emitting unit (EMA3) as is.

[0029] Alternatively, the first light-emitting unit (EMA1), the second light-emitting unit (EMA2), and the third light-emitting unit (EMA3) may emit light of different colors. In this case, the first subpixel (SPX1) may output light of a first color output from the first light-emitting unit (EMA1), the second subpixel (SPX2) may output light of a second color output from the second light-emitting unit (EMA2), and the third subpixel (SPX3) may output light of a third color output from the third light-emitting unit (EMA3).

[0030] In FIG. 2, the first light-emitting part (EMA1), the second light-emitting part (EMA2), and the third light-emitting part (EMA3) are exemplified as having the same area, but are not limited thereto. The first light-emitting part (EMA1), the second light-emitting part (EMA2), and the third light-emitting part (EMA3) may have different areas depending on the color of the light or the wavelength range of the light.

[0031] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a display panel cut along Q1-Q1' of FIG. 2.

[0032] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the display device may include a substrate (SUB), a buffer layer (BL), a thin film transistor layer (TFTL), and a light-emitting element layer (EML).

[0033] The substrate (SUB) may be a base substrate or a base member and may be made of an insulating material such as a polymer resin. For example, the substrate (SUB) may be a rigid substrate. If the substrate (SUB) is a rigid substrate, the substrate (SUB) may include a glass material or a metal material, but is not limited thereto. As another example, the substrate (SUB) may be a flexible substrate capable of bending, folding, rolling, etc. If the substrate (SUB) is a flexible substrate, the substrate (SUB) may include polyimide (PI), but is not limited thereto.

[0034] A buffer layer (BL) may be disposed on a substrate (SUB). The buffer layer (BL) may be made of an inorganic film capable of preventing the penetration of air or moisture. For example, the buffer layer (BL) may include a plurality of inorganic films stacked alternately.

[0035] The thin film transistor layer (TFTL) may include a thin film transistor (T), a gate insulating layer (GI), an interlayer insulating layer (IL1), and a via layer (VIA).

[0036] A thin-film transistor (T) can be placed on a buffer layer (BL) and can form a pixel circuit for each of a plurality of pixels. For example, the thin-film transistor (T) may be a driving transistor (the first transistor (T1) of FIG. 6) or a switching transistor of a pixel circuit. The thin-film transistor (T) may include a semiconductor layer (ACT), a gate electrode (GE), a source electrode (SE), and a drain electrode (DE).

[0037] A semiconductor layer (ACT) may be provided on a buffer layer (BL). The semiconductor layer (ACT) may overlap with a gate electrode (GE), a source electrode (SE), and a drain electrode (DE). The semiconductor layer (ACT) may be in direct contact with the source electrode (SE) and the drain electrode (DE), and may face the gate electrode (GE) with a gate insulating film (GI) in between.

[0038] The gate electrode (GE) can be placed on top of the gate insulating film (GI). The gate electrode (GE) can overlap with the semiconductor layer (ACT) with the gate insulating film (GI) in between.

[0039] The source electrode (SE) and the drain electrode (DE) may be spaced apart from each other on the interlayer insulating film (IL1). The source electrode (SE) may be in contact with one end of the semiconductor layer (ACT) through a contact hole provided in the gate insulating film (GI) and the interlayer insulating film (IL1). The drain electrode (DE) may be in contact with the other end of the semiconductor layer (ACT) through a contact hole provided in the gate insulating film (GI) and the interlayer insulating film (IL1). The drain electrode (DE) may be connected to the first electrode (RME1) of the light-emitting member (EL) through a contact hole provided in the gate insulating film (GI) and the interlayer insulating film (IL1).

[0040] A gate insulating film (GI) may be provided on top of a semiconductor layer (ACT). For example, the gate insulating film (GI) may be placed on top of the semiconductor layer (ACT) and the buffer layer (BL), and may insulate the semiconductor layer (ACT) from the gate electrode (GE). The gate insulating film (GI) may include a contact hole through which a source electrode (SE) passes and a contact hole through which a drain electrode (DE) passes.

[0041] An interlayer insulating film (IL1) may be placed on top of a gate electrode (GE). For example, the interlayer insulating film (IL1) may include a contact hole through which a source electrode (SE) passes and a contact hole through which a drain electrode (DE) passes. Here, the contact hole of the interlayer insulating film (IL1) may be connected to the contact hole of the gate insulating film (GI).

[0042] A via layer (VIA) is provided on top of an interlayer insulating film (IL1) to flatten the top of a thin-film transistor (T). For example, the via layer (VIA) may include a contact hole through which a first electrode (RME1) of a light-emitting member (EL) passes. Here, the contact hole of the via layer (VIA) may be connected to a contact hole of a first gate insulating film (GI).

[0043] The light-emitting element layer (EML) may include a light-emitting member (EL), a bank pattern (BP: BP1, BP2), a bank layer (BNL), a first protective layer (PAS1), a second protective layer (PAS2), and a fourth protective layer (PAS4).

[0044] A light-emitting member (EL) may be provided on a thin-film transistor (T). The light-emitting member (EL) may include a first electrode (RME1), a second electrode (RME2), and a light-emitting element (ED).

[0045] The first electrode (RME1) may be provided on top of the via layer (VIA). For example, the first electrode (RME1) may be placed on a bank pattern (BP: BP1, BP2) disposed on the via layer (VIA) and may cover the bank pattern (BP: BP1, BP2). Additionally, the first electrode (RME1) may be connected to the drain electrode (DE) of the thin-film transistor (T). The first electrode (RME1) may be the anode electrode of the light-emitting element (ED), but is not limited thereto.

[0046] The second electrode (RME2) may be provided on top of the via layer (VIA). For example, the second electrode (RME2) may be placed on a bank pattern (BP: BP1, BP2) disposed on the via layer (VIA) and may cover the bank pattern (BP: BP1, BP2). For example, the second electrode (RME2) may receive a common voltage supplied to the entire pixel. The second electrode (RME2) may be the cathode electrode of the light-emitting element (ED), but is not limited thereto.

[0047] The first insulating layer (PAS1) can cover a portion of the first electrode (RME1) and a portion of the second electrode (RME2) that are adjacent to each other, and can insulate the first electrode (RME1) and the second electrode (RME2).

[0048] A light-emitting element (ED) may be disposed between a first electrode (RME1) and a second electrode (RME2) on top of a via layer (VIA). The light-emitting element (ED) may be disposed on a first insulating layer (PAS1). One end of the light-emitting element (ED) may be connected to the first electrode (RME1), and the other end of the light-emitting element (ED) may be connected to the second electrode (RME2). For example, a plurality of light-emitting elements (ED) may include an active layer having the same material and may emit light of the same wavelength range or light of the same color. The light emitted from each of the first to third light-emitting parts (EMA1, EMA2, EMA3) may have the same color. For example, a plurality of light-emitting elements (ED) may emit light of a third color or blue light having a peak wavelength in the range of 440 nm to 480 nm. Accordingly, the light-emitting element layer (EML) may emit light of a third color or blue light.

[0049] A bank layer (BNL) may be disposed on a via layer (VIA). The bank layer (BNL) may separate and insulate the first electrode (RME1) or the second electrode (RME2) of each of the plurality of light-emitting members (EL).

[0050] The second protective layer (PAS2) and the fourth protective layer (PAS4) may be disposed on a plurality of light-emitting members (EL) and a bank layer (BNL). The second protective layer (PAS2) may cover the plurality of light-emitting members (EL) and protect the plurality of light-emitting members (EL). The second protective layer (PAS2) and the fourth protective layer (PAS4) may prevent damage to the plurality of light-emitting members (EL) by preventing the penetration of impurities, such as moisture or air, from the outside.

[0051] The display device (10) may further include a first flattening layer (OC1), a first capping layer (CAP1), a first light-blocking member (BK1), a first wavelength conversion unit (WLC1), a second wavelength conversion unit (WLC2), a light-transmitting unit (LTU), a second capping layer (CAP2), a second flattening layer (OC2), a second light-blocking member (BK2), first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3), a fourth protective layer (PAS4), and an encapsulation layer (ENC).

[0052] A first flattening layer (OC1) is provided on top of a light-emitting element layer (EML) to flatten the top of the light-emitting element layer (EML). The first flattening layer (OC1) may include an organic material. For example, the first flattening layer (OC1) may include at least one of an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenolic resin, a polyamide resin, and a polyimide resin.

[0053] The first capping layer (CAP1) may be disposed on the first planarization layer (OC1). The first capping layer (CAP1) may seal the lower surface of the first and second wavelength conversion units (WLC1, WLC2) and the light transmission unit (LTU). The first capping layer (CAP1) may include an inorganic material. For example, the first capping layer (CAP1) may include at least one of silicon nitride, aluminum nitride, zirconium nitride, titanium nitride, hafnium nitride, tantalum nitride, silicon oxide, aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, tin oxide, cerium oxide, and silicon oxynitride.

[0054] The first light-blocking member (BK1) may be placed on the light-blocking portion (BA) on the first capping layer (CAP1). The first light-blocking member (BK1) may overlap with the bank layer (BNL) in the thickness direction. The first light-blocking member (BK1) can block the transmission of light. The first light-blocking member (BK1) can improve color reproduction by preventing light from interfering and mixing between the first to third light-emitting portions (EMA1, EMA2, EMA3). The first light-blocking member (BK1) may be arranged in a grid shape surrounding the first to third light-emitting portions (EMA1, EMA2, EMA3) on a plane.

[0055] The first light-blocking member (BK1) may include an organic light-blocking material and a liquid-repellent component. Here, the liquid-repellent component may be composed of a fluorine-containing monomer or a fluorine-containing polymer, and specifically may include a fluorine-containing aliphatic polycarbonate. For example, the first light-blocking member (BK1) may be composed of a black organic material containing the liquid-repellent component. The first light-blocking member (BK1) may be formed through a coating and exposure process, etc., of an organic light-blocking material containing the liquid-repellent component.

[0056] The first light-blocking member (BK1) can separate the first and second wavelength conversion sections (WLC1, WLC2) and the light transmission section (LTU) into corresponding light-emitting sections (EMA) by including a liquid-repellent component. For example, if the first and second wavelength conversion sections (WLC1, WLC2) and the light transmission section (LTU) are formed by an inkjet method, an ink composition may flow on the upper surface of the first light-blocking member (BK1). In this case, the first light-blocking member (BK1) can induce the ink composition to flow into each transmission area by including a liquid-repellent component. Therefore, the first light-blocking member (BK1) can prevent the ink composition from mixing.

[0057] A first wavelength conversion unit (WLC1) may be disposed on a first light-emitting unit (EMA1) on a first capping layer (CAP1). The first wavelength conversion unit (WLC1) may be surrounded by a first light-blocking member (BK1). The first wavelength conversion unit (WLC1) may include a first base resin (BS1), a first scatterer (SCT1), and a first wavelength shifter (WLS1).

[0058] The first base resin (BS1) may include a material with a relatively high light transmittance. The first base resin (BS1) may be made of a transparent organic material. For example, the first base resin (BS1) may include at least one of organic materials such as an epoxy resin, an acrylic resin, a cardo resin, and an imide resin.

[0059] The first scatterer (SCT1) may have a refractive index different from that of the first base resin (BS1) and may form an optical interface with the first base resin (BS1). For example, the first scatterer (SCT1) may include a light-scattering material or light-scattering particles that scatter at least a portion of the transmitted light. For example, the first scatterer (SCT1) may include metal oxides such as titanium oxide (TiO2), zirconium oxide (ZrO2), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), indium oxide (In2O3), zinc oxide (ZnO), or tin oxide (SnO2), or may include organic particles such as acrylic resin or urethane resin. The first scatterer (SCT1) may scatter light in random directions regardless of the incident direction of the incident light without substantially changing the peak wavelength of the incident light.

[0060] The first wavelength shifter (WLS1) can convert or shift the peak wavelength of incident light to the first peak wavelength. For example, the first wavelength shifter (WLS1) can convert and emit blue light provided by the display device (10) into red light having a single peak wavelength in the range of 610 nm to 650 nm. The first wavelength shifter (WLS1) may be a quantum dot, a quantum rod, or a phosphor. A quantum dot may be a particulate material that emits a specific color as electrons transition from the conduction band to the valence band.

[0061] For example, quantum dots can be semiconductor nanocrystalline materials. Depending on their composition and size, quantum dots can have a specific band gap and emit light with a specific wavelength after absorbing light. Examples of semiconductor nanocrystalline quantum dots include group IV nanocrystals, group II-VI compound nanocrystals, group III-V compound nanocrystals, group IV-VI nanocrystals, or combinations thereof.

[0062] Group II-VI compounds are diatomic compounds selected from the group consisting of CdSe, CdTe, ZnS, ZnSe, ZnTe, ZnO, HgS, HgSe, HgTe, MgSe, MgS, and mixtures thereof; ternary compounds selected from the group consisting of InZnP, AgInS, CuInS, CdSeS, CdSeTe, CdSTe, ZnSeS, ZnSeTe, ZnSTe, HgSeS, HgSeTe, HgSTe, CdZnS, CdZnSe, CdZnTe, CdHgS, CdHgSe, CdHgTe, HgZnS, HgZnSe, HgZnTe, MgZnSe, MgZnS, and mixtures thereof; and may be selected from the group consisting of four-element compounds selected from the group consisting of HgZnTeS, CdZnSeS, CdZnSeTe, CdZnSTe, CdHgSeS, CdHgSeTe, CdHgSTe, HgZnSeS, HgZnSeTe, HgZnSTe and mixtures thereof.

[0063] III-V group compounds may be selected from the group consisting of diatomic compounds selected from GaN, GaP, GaAs, GaSb, AlN, AlP, AEMAs, AlSb, InN, InP, InAs, InSb, and mixtures thereof; ternary compounds selected from the group consisting of GaNP, GaNAs, GaNSb, GaPAs, GaPSb, AlNP, AlNAs, AlNSb, AlPAs, AlPSb, InGaP, InNP, InAlP, InNAs, InNSb, InPAs, InPSb, GaAlNP, and mixtures thereof; and quaternary compounds selected from the group consisting of GaAlNAs, GaAlNSb, GaAlPAs, GaAlPSb, GaInNP, GaInNAs, GaInNSb, GaInPAs, GaInPSb, InAlNP, InAlNAs, InAlNSb, InAlPAs, InAlPSb, and mixtures thereof.

[0064] Group IV-VI compounds may be selected from the group consisting of SnS, SnSe, SnTe, PbS, PbSe, PbTe, and mixtures thereof; ternary compounds selected from the group consisting of SnSeS, SnSeTe, SnSTe, PbSeS, PbSeTe, PbSTe, SnPbS, SnPbSe, SnPbTe, and mixtures thereof; and quaternary compounds selected from the group consisting of SnPbSSe, SnPbSeTe, SnPbSTe, and mixtures thereof. Group IV elements may be selected from the group consisting of Si, Ge, and mixtures thereof. Group IV compounds may be ternary compounds selected from the group consisting of SiC, SiGe, and mixtures thereof.

[0065] For example, binary compounds, ternary compounds, or quaternary compounds may exist within the same particle at a uniform concentration, or may exist within the same particle with concentration distributions divided into partially different states.

[0066] For example, a quantum dot may have a core-shell structure comprising a core containing the aforementioned nanocrystal and a shell surrounding the core. The shell of the quantum dot may serve as a protective layer to maintain semiconductor properties by preventing chemical degradation of the core, and as a charging layer to impart electrophoretic properties to the quantum dot. The shell may be a single layer or a multilayer. The interface between the core and the shell may have a concentration gradient in which the concentration of elements present in the shell decreases toward the center. The shell of the quantum dot may be composed of metal or non-metal oxides, semiconductor compounds, or combinations thereof.

[0067] For example, oxides of metals or nonmetals may be exemplified as diatomic compounds such as SiO2, Al2O3, TiO2, ZnO, MnO, Mn2O3, Mn3O4, CuO, FeO, Fe2O3, Fe3O4, CoO, Co3O4, NiO, or ternary compounds such as MgAl2O4, CoFe2O4, NiFe2O4, and CoMn2O4, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0068] In addition, semiconductor compounds may include CdS, CdSe, CdTe, ZnS, ZnSe, ZnTe, ZnSeS, ZnTeS, GaAs, GaP, GaSb, HgS, HgSe, HgTe, InAs, InP, InGaP, InSb, AEMAs, AlP, AlSb, etc., but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0069] The light emitted by the first wavelength shifter (WLS1) may have a Full Width of Half Maximum (FWHM) of the emission wavelength spectrum of 45 nm or less, 40 nm or less, or 30 nm or less, and the color purity and color reproducibility of the color displayed by the display device (10) can be further improved. The light emitted by the first wavelength shifter (WLS1) may be emitted in various directions regardless of the incident direction of the incident light. Accordingly, the side visibility of the red color displayed in the first light-emitting part (EMA1) can be improved.

[0070] A portion of the blue light provided by the light-emitting element layer (EML) may pass through the first wavelength conversion unit (WLC1) without being converted into red light by the first wavelength shifter (WLS1). Among the blue light provided by the light-emitting element layer (EML), the light incident on the first color filter (CF1) without being converted by the first wavelength conversion unit (WLC1) may be blocked by the first color filter (CF1). Furthermore, among the blue light provided by the display device (10), the red light converted by the first wavelength conversion unit (WLC1) may pass through the first color filter (CF1) and be emitted to the outside. Accordingly, the first light-emitting unit (EMA1) may emit red light.

[0071] The second wavelength converter (WLC2) may be disposed on the second light-emitting part (EMA2) on the first capping layer (CAP1). The second wavelength converter (WLC2) may be surrounded by the first light-blocking member (BK1). The second wavelength converter (WLC2) may include a second base resin (BS2), a second scatterer (SCT2), and a second wavelength shifter (WLS2).

[0072] The second base resin (BS2) may include a material with relatively high light transmittance. The second base resin (BS2) may be made of a transparent organic material. For example, the second base resin (BS2) may be made of the same material as the first base resin (BS1) or may be made of the material exemplified in the first base resin (BS1).

[0073] The second scatterer (SCT2) may have a refractive index different from that of the second base resin (BS2) and may form an optical interface with the second base resin (BS2). For example, the second scatterer (SCT2) may include a light-scattering material or light-scattering particles that scatter at least a portion of the transmitted light. For example, the second scatterer (SCT2) may be made of the same material as the first scatterer (SCT1) or may be made of the material exemplified in the first scatterer (SCT1). The second scatterer (SCT2) may scatter light in random directions regardless of the incident direction of the incident light without substantially changing the peak wavelength of the incident light.

[0074] The second wavelength shifter (WLS2) can convert or shift the peak wavelength of incident light to a second peak wavelength different from the first peak wavelength of the first wavelength shifter (WLS1). For example, the second wavelength shifter (WLS2) can convert and emit blue light provided by the display device (10) into green light having a single peak wavelength in the range of 510 nm to 550 nm. The second wavelength shifter (WLS2) may be a quantum dot, a quantum rod, or a phosphor. The second wavelength shifter (WLS2) may include a material of the same nature as the material exemplified in the first wavelength shifter (WLS1). The wavelength conversion range of the second wavelength shifter (WLS2) may be made of a quantum dot, a quantum rod, or a phosphor such that it is different from the wavelength conversion range of the first wavelength shifter (WLS1).

[0075] The light-transmitting unit (LTU) may be disposed on the third light-emitting unit (EMA3) on the first capping layer (CAP1). The light-transmitting unit (LTU) may be surrounded by the first light-blocking member (BK1). The light-transmitting unit (LTU) may transmit while maintaining the peak wavelength of the incident light. The light-transmitting unit (LTU) may include a third base resin (BS3) and a third scatterer (SCT3).

[0076] The third base resin (BS3) may include a material with relatively high light transmittance. The third base resin (BS3) may be made of a transparent organic material. For example, the third base resin (BS3) may be made of the same material as the first or second base resin (BS1, BS2), or may be made of the material exemplified in the first or second base resin (BS1, BS2).

[0077] The third scatterer (SCT3) may have a refractive index different from that of the third base resin (BS3) and may form an optical interface with the third base resin (BS3). For example, the third scatterer (SCT3) may include a light-scattering material or light-scattering particles that scatter at least a portion of the transmitted light. For example, the third scatterer (SCT3) may be made of the same material as the first or second scatterer (SCT1, SCT2) or may be made of the material exemplified in the first or second scatterer (SCT1, SCT2). The third scatterer (SCT3) may scatter light in random directions regardless of the incident direction of the incident light without substantially changing the peak wavelength of the incident light.

[0078] The first and second wavelength conversion units (WLC1, WLC2) and the light transmission unit (LTU) are disposed on the light-emitting element layer (EML) through the first planarization layer (OC1) and the first capping layer (CAP1), so that the display device (10) may not require a separate substrate for the first and second wavelength conversion units (WLC1, WLC2) and the light transmission unit (LTU). Accordingly, the first and second wavelength conversion units (WLC1, WLC2) and the light transmission unit (LTU) can be easily aligned with each of the first to third light-emitting units (EMA1, EMA2, EMA3), and the thickness of the display device (10) can be relatively reduced.

[0079] The second capping layer (CAP2) may cover the first and second wavelength conversion sections (WLC1, WLC2), the light transmission section (LTU), and the first light-blocking member (BK1). For example, the second capping layer (CAP2) may seal the first and second wavelength conversion sections (WLC1, WLC2) and the light transmission section (LTU) to prevent damage or contamination of the first and second wavelength conversion sections (WLC1, WLC2) and the light transmission section (LTU). The second capping layer (CAP2) may be made of the same material as the first capping layer (CAP1) or may be made of the material exemplified in the first capping layer (CAP1).

[0080] The second flattening layer (OC2) is disposed on top of the second capping layer (CAP2) to flatten the top of the first and second wavelength conversion sections (WLC1, WLC2) and the light transmission section (LTU). The second flattening layer (OC2) may include an organic material. For example, the second flattening layer (OC2) may include at least one of acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, polyamide resin, and polyimide resin.

[0081] The second light-blocking member (BK2) may be placed on the light-blocking portion (BA) on the second flattening layer (OC2). The second light-blocking member (BK2) may overlap with the first light-blocking member (BK1) or the bank layer (BNL) in the thickness direction. The second light-blocking member (BK2) can block the transmission of light. The second light-blocking member (BK2) can improve color reproduction by preventing light from interfering and mixing between the first to third light-emitting portions (EMA1, EMA2, EMA3). The second light-blocking member (BK2) may be arranged in a grid shape surrounding the first to third light-emitting portions (EMA1, EMA2, EMA3) on a plane.

[0082] A first color filter (CF1) may be placed on a first light-emitting part (EMA1) on a second flattening layer (OC2). The first color filter (CF1) may be surrounded by a second light-blocking member (BK2). The first color filter (CF1) may overlap with the first wavelength conversion part (WLC1) in the thickness direction. The first color filter (CF1) may selectively transmit light of a first color (e.g., red light) and block or absorb light of a second color (e.g., green light) and light of a third color (e.g., blue light). For example, the first color filter (CF1) may be a red color filter and may include a red colorant. The red colorant may consist of a red dye or a red pigment.

[0083] A second color filter (CF2) may be placed on a second light-emitting part (EMA2) on a second flattening layer (OC2). The second color filter (CF2) may be surrounded by a second light-blocking member (BK2). The second color filter (CF2) may overlap with the second wavelength conversion part (WLC2) in the thickness direction. The second color filter (CF2) may selectively transmit light of a second color (e.g., green light) and block or absorb light of a first color (e.g., red light) and light of a third color (e.g., blue light). For example, the second color filter (CF2) may be a green color filter and may include a green colorant. The green colorant may consist of a green dye or a green pigment.

[0084] A third color filter (CF3) may be placed on a third light-emitting part (EMA3) on a second flattening layer (OC2). The third color filter (CF3) may be surrounded by a second light-blocking member (BK2). The third color filter (CF3) may overlap with the light-transmitting part (LTU) in the thickness direction. The third color filter (CF3) may selectively transmit light of a third color (e.g., blue light) and block or absorb light of a first color (e.g., red light) and light of a second color (e.g., green light). For example, the third color filter (CF3) may be a blue color filter and may include a blue colorant. The blue colorant may consist of a blue dye or a blue pigment.

[0085] The first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) can absorb a portion of the light entering from outside the display device (10) to reduce reflected light caused by external light. Accordingly, the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) can prevent color distortion caused by external light reflection.

[0086] The first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3) are disposed on the first and second wavelength conversion units (WLC1, WLC2) and the light transmission unit (LTU) through the second planarization layer (OC2), so that the display device (10) may not require a separate substrate for the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3). Accordingly, the thickness of the display device (10) may be relatively reduced.

[0087] The fourth protective layer (PAS4) can cover the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3). The fourth protective layer (PAS4) can protect the first to third color filters (CF1, CF2, CF3).

[0088] The encapsulation layer (ENC) may be disposed on the fourth protective layer (PAS4). For example, the encapsulation layer (ENC) may include at least one inorganic film to prevent oxygen or moisture from penetrating. Additionally, the encapsulation layer (ENC) may include at least one organic film to protect the display device (10) from foreign substances such as dust.

[0089] FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a pixel of a display device according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a first subpixel of FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view cut along the N1-N1', N2-N2', and N3-N3' lines of FIG. 5. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view cut along the N4-N4', N5-N5', and N6-N6' lines of FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-section across each contact portion (CT1, CT2) along with both ends of the light-emitting elements (ED1, ED2) in the first subpixel (SPX1). FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view across each contact hole (CTD, CTS, CTA) in the first subpixel (SPX1). FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing outgassing through an opening hole of a first insulating layer according to one embodiment.

[0090] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 7, a display device (10) according to one embodiment may include electrodes (RME; RME1, RME2), bank patterns (BP; BP1, BP2), bank layers (BNL), and connecting electrodes (CNE; CNE1, CNE2, CNE3).

[0091] The bank layer (BNL) can be extended in a first direction (DR1) and a second direction (DR2) and arranged in a complete grid pattern. The area enclosed by the portion of the bank layer (BNL) extended in the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2) can be the light-emitting region (EMA) and sub-region (SA) of each sub-pixel (SPXn). Correspondingly, each sub-pixel (SPXn) of a pixel (PX) can have substantially the same structure. Unlike the embodiment of FIG. 2, the sub-region (SA) is placed on the upper side, which is one side of the first direction (DR1) of the light-emitting region (EMA), and the light-emitting regions (EMA) and sub-regions (SA) of different sub-pixels (SPXn) can be arranged side by side in the second direction (DR2).

[0092] Multiple bank patterns (BP1, BP2) may have a shape extended in a first direction (DR1), but may be smaller than the length of the first direction (DR1) of the light-emitting region (EMA). Additionally, the widths of the multiple bank patterns (BP1, BP2) measured in a second direction (DR2) may differ from each other, and any one bank pattern (BP1, BP2) may be placed across adjacent subpixels (SPXn) in the second direction (DR2). For example, the bank patterns (BP1, BP2) may include a first bank pattern (BP1) placed within the light-emitting region (EMA) of each subpixel (SPXn), and a second bank pattern (BP2) placed across the light-emitting regions (EMA) of different subpixels (SPXn).

[0093] The first bank pattern (BP1) is positioned at the center of the light-emitting region (EMA), and the second bank patterns (BP2) are positioned spaced apart from the first bank pattern (BP1). The first bank pattern (BP1) and the second bank pattern (BP2) can be positioned alternately along the second direction (DR2). Light-emitting elements (EDs) can be positioned between the first bank pattern (BP1) and the second bank pattern (BP2).

[0094] The first bank pattern (BP1) and the second bank pattern (BP2) have the same length in the first direction (DR1), but the width measured in the second direction (DR2) may be different. The portion of the bank layer (BNL) extended in the first direction (DR1) may overlap with the second bank pattern (BP2) in the thickness direction. The bank patterns (BP1, BP2) may be arranged as an island pattern on the front of the display area (DPA).

[0095] A plurality of electrodes (RME) include a first electrode (RME1) positioned at the center of each subpixel (SPXn) and a second electrode (RME2) positioned across different subpixels (SPXn). The first electrode (RME1) and the second electrode (RME2) generally have a shape extending in a first direction (DR1), but the shape of the portion positioned in the light-emitting region (EMA) may differ from each other.

[0096] The first electrode (RME1) is positioned at the center of the subpixel (SPXn), and the portion positioned in the light-emitting region (EMA) may be positioned on the first bank pattern (BP1). The first electrode (RME1) may extend from the sub-region (SA) in the first direction (DR1) and extend to the first direction (DR1) of another subpixel (SPXn). The first electrode (RME1) may have a shape in which the width measured in the second direction (DR2) varies depending on the position, and at least the portion positioned on the first bank pattern (BP1) in the light-emitting region (EMA) may have a width greater than that of the first bank pattern (BP1). The first electrode (RME1) may be positioned to cover both sides of the first bank pattern (BP1).

[0097] The second electrode (RME2) may include a portion extending in the first direction (DR1) and portions branched out near the light-emitting region (EMA). In one embodiment, the second electrode (RME2) may include an electrode stem portion (RM_S) extending in the first direction (DR1) and a plurality of electrode branch portions (RM_B1, RM_B2) branched from the electrode stem portion (RM_S), bent into the second direction (DR2), and then extended back into the first direction (DR1). The electrode stem portion (RM_S) may be positioned to overlap with the portion extending in the first direction (DR1) of the bank layer (BNL) and may be positioned on one side of the second direction (DR2) of the sub-region (SA). The electrode branch portions (RM_B1, RM_B2) are branched from the electrode stem portion (RM_S) located in the portion extending in the first direction (DR1) and the portion extending in the second direction (DR2) of the bank layer (BNL), and can be folded toward both sides of the second direction (DR2). The electrode branch portions (RM_B1, RM_B2) are arranged across the light-emitting region (EMA) in the first direction (DR1), and can be folded again to be integrated and connected to the electrode stem portion (RM_S). That is, the electrode branch portions (RM_B1, RM_B2) of the second electrode (RME2) can be branched from the upper side and reconnected from the lower side, based on the light-emitting region (EMA) of one subpixel (SPXn).

[0098] The second electrode (RME2) may include a first electrode branch (RM_B1) positioned to the left of the first electrode (RME1) and a second electrode branch (RM_B2) positioned to the right of the first electrode (RME1). The electrode branch (RM_B1, RM_B2) included in one second electrode (RME2) are each positioned in the light-emitting region (EMA) of subpixels (SPXn) adjacent to the second direction (DR2), and the electrode branch (RM_B1, RM_B2) of different second electrodes (RME2) may be positioned in one subpixel (SPXn). The first electrode branch (RM_B1) of the second electrode (RME2) may be positioned to the left of the first electrode (RME1), and the second electrode branch (RM_B2) of another second electrode (RME2) may be positioned to the right of the first electrode (RME1).

[0099] Each electrode branch (RM_B1, RM_B2) of the second electrode (RME2) may be placed on one side of the second bank pattern (BP2). The first electrode branch (RM_B1) may be placed on the second bank pattern (BP2) placed on the left side of the first bank pattern (BP1), and the second electrode branch (RM_B2) may be placed on the second bank pattern (BP2) placed on the right side of the first bank pattern (BP1). The first electrode (RME1) may be spaced apart from the different electrode branches (RM_B1, RM_B2) of the second electrode (RME2), which are different on both sides, and the gap between the first electrode (RME1) and each electrode branch (RM_B1, RM_B2) may be smaller than the gap between the bank patterns (BP1, BP2).

[0100] Additionally, the width measured in the second direction (DR2) of the first electrode (RME1) may be larger than the width of the electrode stem portion (RM_S) and the electrode branch portions (RM_B1, RM_B2) of the second electrode (RME2). While the first electrode (RME1) covers both sides of the first bank pattern (BP1), the second electrode (RME2) is formed with a relatively smaller width so that the electrode branch portions (RM_B1, RM_B2) can cover only one side of the second bank pattern (BP2).

[0101] The first electrode (RME1) can contact the second conductive pattern (CDP2) of the third conductive layer through the first contact hole (CTD) in the portion overlapping with the portion extending in the second direction (DR2) of the bank layer (BNL). Unlike the embodiment of FIG. 2, the first contact hole (CTD) may be placed below the bank layer (BNL) rather than in the sub-region (SA). The second electrode (RME2) can contact the second voltage wiring (VL2) of the third conductive layer through the second contact hole (CTS) in the electrode stem portion (RM_S). Additionally, the first electrode (RME1) can contact the first connecting electrode (CNE1) by having the first contact portion (CT1) of the first insulating layer (PAS1) placed in the portion placed in the sub-region (SA). The second electrode (RME2) includes a portion that protrudes in a second direction (DR2) from the electrode stem portion (RM_S) and is disposed in a sub-region (SA), and the second contact portion (CT2) of the first insulating layer (PAS1) is disposed in the protruding portion and can contact the second connecting electrode (CNE2).

[0102] Meanwhile, the positions of the first contact hole (CTD) of the subpixel (SPXn) in a single pixel (PX) may differ from each other. The first contact hole (CTD) of the first subpixel (SPX1) may be positioned above the light-emitting region (EMA), and the first contact hole (CTD) of the second subpixel (SPX2) and the third subpixel (SPX3) may be positioned below the light-emitting region (EMA).

[0103] Among the first electrode (RME1) and the second electrode (RME2), the first electrode (RME1) is positioned up to the separation portion (ROP) of the sub-region (SA), whereas the second electrode (RME2) may not be separated from the sub-region (SA). A single second electrode (RME2) may have a shape that extends in a first direction (DR1) including a plurality of electrode stem portions (RM_S) and electrode branch portions (RM_B1, RM_B2) and branches near the light-emitting region (EMA) of each sub-pixel (SPXn). The first electrode (RME1) may be positioned between the separation portions (ROP) placed in the sub-region (SA) of each sub-pixel (SPXn) and may be positioned across the light-emitting region (EMA).

[0104] According to one embodiment, the display device (10) may include a dummy pattern (DP) disposed in a sub-region (SA) and positioned between first electrodes (RME1) of different sub-pixels (SPXn). The dummy pattern (DP) may be spaced apart from the first electrodes (RME1) in the sub-region (SA) with separation portions (ROP) in between. Two separation portions (ROP) may be disposed in one sub-region (SA). The dummy pattern (DP) may be spaced apart from the first electrode (RME1) disposed in the corresponding sub-pixel (SPXn) with the lower separation portion (ROP) in between, and spaced apart from the first electrode (RME1) disposed in the other sub-pixel (SPXn) with the upper separation portion (ROP) in between.

[0105] A dummy pattern (DP) can be formed in a state connected to different first electrodes (RME1) through an electrode connection portion (CEP). In the separation portion (ROP), a process of removing the electrode connection portion (CEP) can be performed since the first insulating layer (PAS1) and the second insulating layer (PAS2) are not disposed therein, and a plurality of first electrodes (RME1) connected to the dummy pattern (DP) can be separated from each other.

[0106] In one embodiment, a dummy pattern (DP) can be connected to a first voltage line (VL1) of a third conductive layer through a third contact hole (CTA) penetrating a via layer (VIA). A first electrode (RME1) is formed in a state connected to the dummy pattern (DP), and an electrical signal applied to place light-emitting elements (EDs) can be applied from the first voltage line (VL1) to the first electrode (RME1) through the dummy pattern (DP). In the process of placing light-emitting elements (EDs), a signal is applied to the first voltage line (VL1) and the second voltage line (VL2), and these can be transmitted to the first electrode (RME1) and the second electrode (RME2), respectively.

[0107] A plurality of light-emitting elements (ED) may be placed on different electrodes (RME) between different bank patterns (BP1, BP2). A light-emitting element (ED) may include a first light-emitting element (ED1) with both ends placed on the second electrode branch (RM_B2) of the first electrode (RME1) and the second electrode (RME2), and a second light-emitting element (ED2) with both ends placed on the first electrode branch (RM_B1) of the first electrode (RME1) and the other second electrode (RME2). The first light-emitting elements (ED1) may be placed to the right of the first electrode (RME1), and the second light-emitting elements (ED2) may be placed to the left of the first electrode (RME1).

[0108] A plurality of connecting electrodes (CNE; CNE1, CNE2, CNE3) may include a first connecting electrode (CNE1) which is a first type connecting electrode, a second connecting electrode (CNE2), and a third connecting electrode (CNE3) which is a third type connecting electrode.

[0109] The first connecting electrode (CNE1) may have a shape extending in the first direction (DR1) and may be disposed on the first electrode (RME1). The portion of the first connecting electrode (CNE1) disposed on the first bank pattern (BP1) overlaps with the first electrode (RME1) and may extend from therein in the first direction (DR1) to a sub-region (SA) located above the bank layer (BNL) and above the light-emitting region (EMA). The first connecting electrode (CNE1) may contact the first electrode (RME1) through the first contact portion (CT1) in the sub-region (SA).

[0110] The second connecting electrode (CNE2) may have a shape extending in the first direction (DR1) and may be disposed on the second electrode (RME2). The portion of the second connecting electrode (CNE2) disposed on the second bank pattern (BP2) overlaps with the second electrode (RME2) and may extend from therein in the first direction (DR1) to a sub-region (SA) located above the bank layer (BNL) and above the light-emitting region (EMA). The second connecting electrode (CNE2) may contact the second electrode (RME2) through the second contact portion (CT2) in the sub-region (SA).

[0111] The third connecting electrode (CNE3) may include extensions (CN_E1, CN_E2) extending in a first direction (DR1), and a first connecting portion (CN_B1) connecting the extensions (CN_E1, CN_E2). The first extension (CN_E1) ​​is positioned on the second electrode branch (RM_B2) of the second electrode (RME2) and faces the first connecting electrode (CNE1) within the light-emitting region (EMA), and the second extension (CN_E2) is positioned on the first electrode (RME1) and faces the second connecting electrode (CNE2) within the light-emitting region (EMA). The first connecting portion (CN_B1) may extend in a second direction (DR2) on a bank layer (BNL) positioned below the light-emitting region (EMA) to connect the first extension (CN_E1) ​​and the second extension (CN_E2). The third connecting electrode (CNE3) is placed on the light-emitting region (EMA) and the bank layer (BNL) and may not be directly connected to the electrode (RME). The second electrode branch (RM_B2) placed below the first extension (CN_E1) ​​is electrically connected to the second voltage wiring (VL2), but the second power supply voltage applied to the second electrode branch (RM_B2) may not be transmitted to the third connecting electrode (CNE3). The first connecting electrode (CNE1) and the second connecting electrode (CNE2) are first type connecting electrodes directly connected to the electrode (RME), and the third connecting electrode (CNE3) may be a second type connecting electrode that is not.

[0112] Meanwhile, similar to the above-described embodiment, a separation section (ROP) in which a process for separating the electrode (RME) is performed is disposed in the sub-region (SA), and a third contact hole (CTA) is disposed as a contact hole penetrating the via layer (VIA). The first insulating layer (PAS1) is not disposed in the separation sections (ROP) and includes an opening hole (OP) that overlaps with the third contact hole (CTA), and the second insulating layer (PAS2) is not disposed in the separation sections (ROP) but may be disposed to cover the opening hole (OP).

[0113] Meanwhile, the first insulating layer (PAS1) of the display device according to one embodiment may include at least one opening pattern (OP_PA). The at least one opening pattern (OP_PA) may overlap with the bank layer (BNL). The at least one opening pattern (OP_PA) may be a plurality. The plurality of opening patterns (OP_PA) may be arranged along a first direction (DR1), as shown in FIG. 5. The plurality of opening patterns (OP_PA) arranged along the first direction (DR1) may overlap with the bank layer (BNL) extended along the first direction (DR1).

[0114] The planar shape of the opening pattern (OP_PA) can be rectangular. For example, the planar shape of the opening pattern (OP_PA) can be a square or a rectangle.

[0115] Some of the planar opening patterns (OP_PA) may be positioned between a plurality of electrode branch sections (RM_B1, RM_B2), as shown in FIG. 5. For example, some of the planar opening patterns (OP_PA) may be positioned between the first electrode branch section (RM_B1) and the second electrode branch section (RM_B2). The opening pattern (OP_PA) positioned between the first electrode branch section (RM_B1) and the second electrode branch section (RM_B2) may be positioned spaced apart from the adjacent first electrode branch section (RM_B1) and second electrode branch section (RM_B2), respectively.

[0116] In the opening pattern (OP_PA) of the first insulating layer (PAS1), the bank layer (BNL) can be in direct contact with the bank pattern (BP). For example, in the opening pattern (OP_PA) of the first insulating layer (PAS1), the bank layer (BNL) can be in direct contact with the upper surface of the second bank pattern (BP2) that overlaps in the thickness direction. In other words, as shown in FIG. 13, on the opening pattern (OP_PA) of the first insulating layer (PAS1), the gas trapped inside the second bank pattern (BP2) can be released upward through the bank layer (BNL).

[0117] FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of section B of FIG. 5. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line N7-N7' of FIG. 8. FIG. 8 illustrates a portion of a sub-region (SA) of a sub-pixel (SPXn) in which a dummy pattern (DP) and a separation portion (ROP) are arranged, FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-section traversing a plurality of separation portions (ROP) and an opening hole (OP).

[0118] Referring to FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 in conjunction with FIG. 5, a dummy pattern (DP) spaced apart from the first electrodes (RME1) is disposed in the sub-region (SA), and a plurality of insulating layers (PAS1, PAS2, PAS3) may be disposed thereon. In the display device (10), a plurality of separation parts (ROP) are formed in the sub-region (SA) between the dummy patterns (DP), and the first electrodes (RME1) of different sub-pixels (SPXn) may be disposed in contact with each of the different separation parts (ROP). The first electrode (RME1) of the corresponding sub-pixel (SPXn) is disposed in contact with the separation part (ROP) disposed below the dummy pattern (DP), and the first electrode (RME1) of another sub-pixel (SPXn) adjacent to the first direction (DR1) of the corresponding sub-pixel (SPXn) is disposed in contact with the separation part (ROP) disposed above the dummy pattern (DP). Although not shown in the drawing, the second electrode (RME2) is positioned so that the electrode stem portion (RM_S) overlaps with the bank layer (BNL) and can be spaced apart from the separation portion (ROP) and dummy pattern (DP) of the sub-region (SA).

[0119] A display device (10) is formed in a state where the first electrode (RME1) and the dummy pattern (DP) are connected in the separation portion (ROP) of the sub-region (SA), and then a process of separating them is performed. A process of removing the electrode connection portion (CEP) that connects the dummy pattern (DP) and the first electrode (RME1) to each other through the electrode connection portions (CEP) is performed. The first insulating layer (PAS1) and the second insulating layer (PAS2) are not disposed in the separation portions (ROP) of the sub-region (SA), and the third insulating layer (PAS3) may cover the separation portion (ROP). The third insulating layer (PAS1) may come into direct contact with the upper surface of the via layer (VIA) in the separation portion (ROP), and may also come into partial direct contact with the first electrode (RME1) and the dummy pattern (DP) that are spaced apart from each other in the separation portion (ROP).

[0120] The first insulating layer (PAS1) is not placed in the separation portions (ROP) in the sub-region (SA) and additionally includes an opening hole (OP) that exposes a portion of the dummy pattern (DP). The opening hole (OP) is positioned to overlap with the third contact hole (CTA), and its diameter may be larger than that of the third contact hole (CTA). In the portion where the first insulating layer (PAS1) is not placed, the area of ​​the separation portion (ROP) may be larger than the area of ​​the opening hole (OP).

[0121] Although not shown in FIG. 8, the second insulating layer (PAS2) can cover the entire area of ​​the sub-region (SA) excluding the separation portions (ROP). The second insulating layer (PAS2) can come into direct contact with the dummy pattern (DP) while covering the opening hole (OP). The process of removing the electrode connection portion (CEP) in the sub-region (SA) is performed such that only the separation portion (ROP) is not covered by the first insulating layer (PAS1) and the second insulating layer (PAS2), and the area other than the separation portion (ROP) can be protected by the second insulating layer (PAS2).

[0122] FIGS. 10 and FIGS. 11 are drawings showing the shapes of electrodes in a sub-region during the manufacturing process of a display device. FIG. 10 is a plan view showing the state in which a dummy pattern (DP) and a first electrode (RME1) are connected by electrode connection parts (CEP) in a sub-region (SA), and FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view cut along the line N8-N8' of FIG. 10 showing a cross-section across the separation parts (ROP) and the opening hole (OP).

[0123] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, a display device (10) may be formed such that a first electrode (RME1) placed in each subpixel (SPXn) and a dummy pattern (DP) are connected by an electrode connection part (CEP). The dummy pattern (DP) may be connected to the first electrodes (RME1) placed on the upper and lower sides, respectively, by electrode connection parts (CEPs). Since the electrode connection part (CEP) is removed in a subsequent process, the separation part (ROP) of the sub-region (SA) may be set as the area where the electrode connection part (CEP) is placed.

[0124] The first insulating layer (PAS1) may be positioned to cover the electrodes (RME) while exposing the electrode connection portion (CEP) and a portion of the dummy pattern (DP). The portion where the electrode connection portion (CEP) connecting the dummy pattern (DP) and the first electrode (RME) is positioned becomes the separation portion (ROP), and the first insulating layer (PAS1) is not positioned in the separation portion (ROP). Additionally, the first insulating layer (PAS1) may include an opening hole (OP) that exposes a portion of the dummy pattern (DP) that overlaps with the third contact hole (CTA).

[0125] With the first insulating layer (PAS1) formed, an electrical signal is applied to the electrodes (RME) to place light-emitting elements (ED) in the light-emitting region (EMA). The electrical signal is applied to the first voltage line (VL1) and the second voltage line (VL2), and the signal applied to the first voltage line (VL1) can be transmitted to a dummy pattern (DP) connected through the third contact hole (CTA). Since the dummy pattern (DP) is connected to the first electrode (RME1) through the electrode connection part (CEP), the electrical signal can be transmitted to the first electrode (RME1).

[0126] The second insulating layer (PAS2) may be placed to cover the light-emitting elements (ED) after they have been placed. The second insulating layer (PAS2) may cover the light-emitting region (EMA) and the sub-region (SA), but may not be placed in the separation portions (ROP). Since the process of removing the electrode connection portion (CEP) is performed in the separation portion (ROP), the second insulating layer (PAS2) may expose the electrode connection portion (CEP). On the other hand, the second insulating layer (PAS2) may not completely expose the dummy pattern (DP) by covering the opening hole (OP) of the first insulating layer (PAS1) in the sub-region (SA).

[0127] Subsequently, in the process of removing the electrode connection portion (CEP), other regions of the sub-region (SA), excluding the separation portion (ROP), are covered by the second insulating layer (PAS2), so that damage to other electrodes (RME) caused by residue generated during the patterning process can be prevented. In particular, the dummy pattern (DP) overlapping with the third contact hole (CTA) can be protected by the second insulating layer (PAS2) covering the opening hole (OP).

[0128] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a light-emitting element according to one embodiment.

[0129] Referring to FIG. 12, the light-emitting element (ED) may be a light-emitting diode. For example, the light-emitting element (ED) may have a size in the micrometer or nanometer range and may be an inorganic light-emitting diode containing inorganic materials. The inorganic light-emitting diode may be aligned between two electrodes according to an electric field formed in a specific direction between two electrodes facing each other.

[0130] The light-emitting element (ED) may have a shape that extends in one direction. The light-emitting element (ED) may have a shape such as a rod, wire, or tube. For example, the light-emitting element (ED) may be cylindrical or rod-shaped. As another example, the light-emitting element (ED) may have various shapes, such as polygonal prisms like cubes, rectangular prisms, or hexagonal prisms, or shapes that extend in one direction but are partially inclined. Multiple semiconductors of the light-emitting element (ED) may have a structure in which they are sequentially arranged or stacked along one direction.

[0131] The light-emitting element (ED) may include a first semiconductor layer (31), a second semiconductor layer (32), an active layer (36), an electrode layer (37), and an insulating film (38).

[0132] The first semiconductor layer (31) may be an n-type semiconductor. For example, when the light-emitting device (ED) emits blue light, the first semiconductor layer (31) may include a semiconductor material having the chemical formula AlxGayIn1-x-yN (0≤x≤1, 0≤y≤1, 0≤x+y≤1). The first semiconductor layer (31) may include at least one semiconductor material among n-type doped AlGaInN, GaN, AlGaN, InGaN, AlN, and InN. The first semiconductor layer (31) may be doped with an n-type dopant such as Si, Ge, or Sn. The first semiconductor layer (31) may be n-GaN doped with n-type Si. The length of the first semiconductor layer (31) may be in the range of 1.5 μm to 5 μm, but is not limited thereto.

[0133] The second semiconductor layer (32) may be disposed on the active layer (36). For example, when the light-emitting element (ED) emits blue or green light, the second semiconductor layer (32) may include a semiconductor material having the chemical formula AlxGayIn1-x-yN (0≤x≤1, 0≤y≤1, 0≤x+y≤1). For example, the second semiconductor layer (32) may include at least one semiconductor material among p-type doped AlGaInN, GaN, AlGaN, InGaN, AlN, and InN. The second semiconductor layer (32) may be doped with a p-type dopant such as Mg, Zn, Ca, Se, or Ba. The second semiconductor layer (32) may be p-GaN doped with p-type Mg. The length of the second semiconductor layer (32) may be in the range of 0.05 μm to 0.10 μm, but is not limited thereto.

[0134] Each of the first and second semiconductor layers (31, 32) may be composed of a single layer, but is not limited thereto. For example, each of the first and second semiconductor layers (31, 32) may have multiple layers, including a clad layer or a TSBR (Tensile Strain Barrier Reducing) layer.

[0135] The active layer (36) may be disposed between the first and second semiconductor layers (31, 32). The active layer (36) may include a material having a single or multiple quantum well structure. If the active layer (36) includes a material having a multiple quantum well structure, a quantum layer and a well layer may be stacked alternately in multiple numbers. The active layer (36) may emit light through the coupling of electron-hole pairs according to an electrical signal applied through the first and second semiconductor layers (31, 32). For example, if the active layer (36) emits blue light, it may include a material such as AlGaN or AlGaInN. If the active layer (36) has a structure in which quantum layers and well layers are stacked alternately in a multiple quantum well structure, the quantum layer may include a material such as AlGaN or AlGaInN, and the well layer may include a material such as GaN or AlInN. The active layer (36) can emit blue light by including AlGaInN as the quantum layer and AlInN as the well layer.

[0136] As another example, the active layer (36) may have a structure in which semiconductor materials with a large band gap energy and semiconductor materials with a small band gap energy are alternately stacked, and may include semiconductor materials of group 3 to group 5 depending on the wavelength range of the emitted light. The light emitted by the active layer (36) is not limited to blue light and may emit red or green light depending on the case. The length of the active layer (36) may have a range of 0.05 μm to 0.10 μm, but is not limited thereto.

[0137] The light emitted from the active layer (36) can be emitted along the length of the light-emitting element (ED) and can also be emitted to both sides. The directionality of the light emitted from the active layer (36) may not be limited.

[0138] The electrode layer (37) may be an ohmic contact electrode. As another example, the electrode layer (37) may be a Schottky contact electrode. The light-emitting element (ED) may include at least one electrode layer (37). The electrode layer (37) may reduce the resistance between the light-emitting element (ED) and the electrode or contact electrode (CTE) when the light-emitting element (ED) is electrically connected to the electrode or contact electrode (CTE). The electrode layer (37) may include a conductive metal. For example, the electrode layer (37) may include at least one of aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), indium (In), gold (Au), silver (Ag), indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), and indium tin-zinc oxide (ITZO). The electrode layer (37) may include an n-type or p-type doped semiconductor material.

[0139] The insulating film (38) can surround the outer surface of a plurality of semiconductor layers and electrode layers. The insulating film (38) can surround the outer surface of the active layer (36) and can extend in the direction in which the light-emitting element (ED) extends. The insulating film (38) can protect the light-emitting element (ED). For example, the insulating film (38) can surround the side of the light-emitting element (ED) and expose both ends in the longitudinal direction of the light-emitting element (ED).

[0140] The insulating film (38) may include materials having insulating properties, such as silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxynitride (SiOxNy), aluminum nitride (AlN), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), etc. Accordingly, the insulating film (38) can prevent an electrical short circuit that may occur when the active layer (36) comes into direct contact with the electrode through which an electrical signal is transmitted to the light-emitting element (ED). In addition, the insulating film (38) can prevent a decrease in light-emitting efficiency by protecting the outer surface of the light-emitting element (ED), including the active layer (36).

[0141] The outer surface of the insulating film (38) can be surface-treated. When manufacturing the display device (10), the light-emitting element (ED) can be sprayed onto the electrode in a dispersed state within a predetermined ink and aligned. By treating the surface of the insulating film (38) as hydrophobic or hydrophilic, the light-emitting element (ED) can remain dispersed within the ink without aggregating with adjacent light-emitting elements (ED).

[0142] FIG. 14 is a plan view showing one pixel of a display device according to another embodiment. FIG. 15 is a plan view showing one pixel of a display device according to yet another embodiment.

[0143] Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, the opening pattern (OP_PA_1, OP_PA_2) of the display device according to the present embodiment is different from the opening pattern (OP_PA) of the display device according to FIG. 5 in that the planar shape of the opening pattern is different.

[0144] To explain more specifically, as shown in FIG. 14, the planar shape of the opening pattern (OP_PA_1) may be circular. Also, as shown in FIG. 15, the planar shape of the opening pattern (OP_PA_1) may be elliptical.

[0145] However, not limited thereto, the planar shape of the opening pattern (OP_PA_1, OP_PA_2) may be modified. For example, the planar shape of the opening pattern (OP_PA_1, OP_PA_2) may be a triangle, a pentagon, or a hexagon.

[0146] 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

[0147] 10: Display device RME: Electrode CNE: Connecting electrode PAS1, PAS2, PAS3: Insulation layer OP: Frog hole ROP: Separation part DP: Dummy pattern

Claims

Claim 1 A first subpixel including a first light-emitting region; a first electrode located at the center of the first light-emitting region when viewed in a planar view; a second-1 electrode and a second-2 electrode, each having a portion disposed in the first light-emitting region and spaced apart from each other in the first light-emitting region with the first electrode in between; a first light-emitting element disposed in the first light-emitting region and having at least a portion located between the first electrode and the second-1 electrode when viewed in a planar view; a second light-emitting element disposed in the first light-emitting region and having at least a portion located between the first electrode and the second-2 electrode when viewed in a planar view; A display device comprising a plurality of connecting electrodes disposed in the first light-emitting region, each including at least one electrode among the first electrode, the second-1 electrode, and the second-2 electrode, and at least one light-emitting element among the first light-emitting element and the second light-emitting element, wherein each of the second-1 electrode and the second-2 electrode extends in the first direction having a structure in which a stem portion and a plurality of branch portions branched from the stem portion are repeatedly arranged in the first direction, and at least one part of one of the plurality of branch portions included in each of the second-1 electrode and the second-2 electrode is located in the first light-emitting region. Claim 2 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the first electrode, the second-1 electrode, and the second-2 electrode each extend in the first direction in the first light-emitting region and are spaced apart from each other in a second direction intersecting the first direction. Claim 3 A display device according to claim 1, further comprising a second subpixel including a second light-emitting region adjacent to the first light-emitting region in a second direction intersecting the first direction, wherein among the plurality of branch portions included in the second-1 electrode, one branch portion located in the first light-emitting region and another branch portion adjacent to the second direction have at least one part located in the second light-emitting region. Claim 4 In claim 3, the one branch and the other branch of the 2-1 electrode are continuously connected to each other and form a closed-loop pattern, a display device. Claim 5 A display device according to claim 3, comprising a plurality of light-emitting regions arranged in the first direction and the second direction, including the first light-emitting region and the second light-emitting region, wherein each of the 2-1 electrode and the 2-2 electrode comprises a pair of branch portions branched from a single stem portion and adjacent to the second direction, and the pair of branch portions are disposed in different light-emitting regions among the pair of light-emitting regions adjacent to the second direction. Claim 6 A display device according to claim 1, further comprising: a first bank pattern disposed below a portion of the first electrode in the first light-emitting region; a second bank pattern disposed below a portion of each of the second-1 electrode and the second-2 electrode in the first light-emitting region and extending outwardly to the first light-emitting region; a first insulating layer disposed on at least a portion of each of the first electrode, the second-1 electrode and the second-2 electrode and on the second bank pattern and located below the first light-emitting element and the second light-emitting element; and a bank layer disposed on a portion of the first insulating layer and surrounding the first light-emitting region when viewed in a planar view. Claim 7 A display device according to claim 6, wherein the bank layer overlaps with a part of the second bank pattern, and the first insulating layer includes an opening pattern in the part where the bank layer and the second bank pattern overlap. Claim 8 A display device according to claim 7, wherein the second bank pattern and the bank layer are in contact in the area where the opening pattern is arranged. Claim 9 A display device according to claim 6, further comprising a second subpixel including a second light-emitting region adjacent to the first light-emitting region in a second direction intersecting the first direction, wherein the second bank pattern and a portion of the bank layer extend in the first direction between the first light-emitting region and the second light-emitting region and overlap each other, and the first insulating layer includes a plurality of aperture patterns arranged in the first direction between the first light-emitting region and the second light-emitting region. Claim 10 A display device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of connecting electrodes comprises: a first connecting electrode disposed on a portion of the first electrode and a portion of the first light-emitting element and in contact with the said portion of the first light-emitting element; a second connecting electrode disposed on a portion of the second electrode and a portion of the second light-emitting element and in contact with the said portion of the second light-emitting element; and a third connecting electrode disposed on a different portion of each of the first light-emitting element and the second light-emitting element and in contact with the said different portion of the first light-emitting element and the second light-emitting element. Claim 11 A display device according to claim 10, wherein the first connecting electrode contacts a part of the first electrode, and the second connecting electrode contacts a part of the second electrode. Claim 12 A display device according to claim 11, wherein the first electrode extends outwardly to the first light-emitting region and contacts the first connecting electrode at a contact portion located around the first light-emitting region. Claim 13 A plurality of light-emitting regions including a first light-emitting region, a second light-emitting region, and a third light-emitting region; a first electrode located at the center of each of the plurality of light-emitting regions when viewed in a planar view and extending in a first direction from each of the plurality of light-emitting regions; a plurality of second electrodes extending in the first direction, each having a structure in which a stem portion and a plurality of branch portions branched from the stem portion are repeatedly arranged in the first direction, and are alternately arranged with the first electrode of each of the plurality of light-emitting regions in a second direction intersecting the first direction, wherein at least one part of the plurality of branch portions is located in the plurality of light-emitting regions; a plurality of light-emitting elements disposed in each of the plurality of light-emitting regions and, when viewed in a planar view, disposed between the branch portion of each of two second electrodes spaced apart from each other with the first electrode in between in each of the plurality of light-emitting regions and the first electrode. A display device comprising a plurality of connecting electrodes disposed in each of the plurality of light-emitting regions, each electrode disposed on at least one of the first electrode and the two second electrodes and on at least one of the plurality of light-emitting elements. Claim 14 A display device according to claim 13, wherein the first light-emitting region and the second light-emitting region are adjacent in the second direction, and one of the plurality of second electrodes comprises a first stem portion located around the first light-emitting region and the second light-emitting region, and a first branch portion and a second branch portion branched from the first stem portion and located in the first light-emitting region and the second light-emitting region, respectively. Claim 15 A display device according to claim 14, wherein the second light-emitting region and the third light-emitting region are adjacent in the second direction, and another second electrode among the plurality of second electrodes comprises a second stem portion located around the second light-emitting region and the third light-emitting region, and a third branch portion and a fourth branch portion branched from the second stem portion and located in the second light-emitting region and the third light-emitting region, respectively. Claim 16 A display device according to claim 13, further comprising: a first bank pattern disposed below a portion of the first electrode in each of the plurality of light-emitting regions; a second bank pattern disposed below a portion of each of the plurality of branch portions in each of the plurality of light-emitting regions and extending outwardly to each of the plurality of light-emitting regions; a first insulating layer disposed on at least a portion of each of the first electrode and each of the plurality of second electrodes and on the second bank pattern and located below the plurality of light-emitting elements; and a bank layer disposed on a portion of the first insulating layer and surrounding each of the plurality of light-emitting regions when viewed in a planar view. Claim 17 A display device according to claim 16, wherein the bank layer overlaps with a part of the second bank pattern, and the first insulating layer includes a plurality of opening patterns in the part where the bank layer and the second bank pattern overlap. Claim 18 A display device according to claim 13, wherein the plurality of light-emitting elements comprises: a first light-emitting element disposed between a branch portion included in one of the second electrodes of the two second electrodes and the first electrode when viewed in a planar view; and a second light-emitting element disposed between a branch portion included in the other of the two second electrodes and the first electrode when viewed in a planar view. Claim 19 A display device according to claim 18, wherein the plurality of connecting electrodes comprises: a first connecting electrode disposed on a portion of the first electrode and a portion of the first light-emitting element and in contact with said portion of the first light-emitting element; a second connecting electrode disposed on a portion of the other second electrode and a portion of the second light-emitting element and in contact with said portion of the second light-emitting element; and a third connecting electrode disposed on a different portion of each of the first light-emitting element and the second light-emitting element and in contact with said different portion of each of the first light-emitting element and the second light-emitting element. Claim 20 A subpixel including a light-emitting region; a first electrode located at the center of the light-emitting region when viewed in a plane; a second-1 electrode and a second-2 electrode, each having a portion disposed in the light-emitting region and spaced apart from each other in the light-emitting region with the first electrode in between; a first light-emitting element disposed in the light-emitting region, having at least a portion located between the first electrode and the second-1 electrode when viewed in a plane; a second light-emitting element disposed in the light-emitting region, having at least a portion located between the first electrode and the second-2 electrode when viewed in a plane; An electronic device comprising a plurality of connecting electrodes disposed in the light-emitting region, each comprising at least one electrode among the first electrode, the second-1 electrode, and the second-2 electrode, and at least one light-emitting element among the first light-emitting element and the second light-emitting element, wherein each of the second-1 electrode and the second-2 electrode extends in the first direction having a structure in which a stem portion and a plurality of branch portions branched from the stem portion are repeatedly arranged in the first direction, and at least one part of one of the plurality of branch portions included in each of the second-1 electrode and the second-2 electrode is located in the light-emitting region.

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