Display device

Abstract

The invention relates to a display device in a scheme comprising: a substrate; a layer of luminescent elements arranged on the substrate and comprising a pixel-determining film by which luminescent and non-luminescent regions are separated; a cover layer arranged on the luminescent element layer; a touch-sensing layer arranged on the cover layer comprising a touch-connecting electrode, a control electrode, and a color pattern arranged between the touch-connecting electrode and the control electrode; a color filter layer arranged on the touch-sensing layer comprising color filters; and an overlay layer arranged on the color filter layer, such that the color pattern overlaps the non-luminescent region and one of the luminescent regions, and the non-overlapping color filters overlap the color pattern.

Description

display device

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

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

[0003] The display device may be a flat panel display device such as a liquid crystal display device, a field emission display device, or a light emitting display device. The light emitting display device includes 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 an ultra-small light emitting display device including an ultra-solid light emitting element.

[0004] An organic light-emitting device may include two opposing electrodes and a light-emitting layer interposed therebetween. The light-emitting layer receives electrons and holes from the two electrodes, recombines them, and generates excitons. The generated excitons change from an excited state to a ground state, thereby emitting light.

[0005] Organic light-emitting display devices that include organic light-emitting elements are attracting attention as next-generation display devices because they do not require a light source such as a backlight unit, so they can be configured as thin, lightweight devices with low power consumption, and have high-quality characteristics such as a wide viewing angle, high brightness and contrast, and fast response speed.

[0006] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a display device including a color filter arranged on a light-emitting element, which can reduce reflection due to external light and improve light output efficiency.

[0007] The tasks of the present invention are not limited to the tasks mentioned above, and other technical tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present invention for solving the above problem, a display device includes a substrate, a light-emitting element layer disposed on the substrate and including a pixel definition film that defines a plurality of light-emitting regions and a non-light-emitting region, an encapsulation layer disposed on the light-emitting element layer, a touch sensing layer disposed on the encapsulation layer and including a touch connection electrode, a driving electrode, and a color pattern disposed between the touch connection electrode and the driving electrode, a color filter layer disposed on the touch sensing layer and including a plurality of color filters, and an overcoat layer disposed on the color filter layer, wherein the color pattern overlaps one of the plurality of light-emitting regions and the non-light-emitting region, and the plurality of color filters may not overlap the light-emitting region overlapping the color pattern.

[0009] The plurality of light-emitting regions include a first light-emitting region emitting a first light, a second light-emitting region emitting a second light, and a third light-emitting region emitting a third light, and the color pattern can overlap any one light-emitting region selected from among the first light-emitting region, the second light-emitting region, and the third light-emitting region.

[0010] The plurality of color filters may be arranged to overlap each other in different light-emitting regions among the remaining light-emitting regions excluding the light-emitting region overlapping the color pattern.

[0011] The first light may be red light, the second light may be blue light, and the third light may be green light.

[0012] The above color pattern may overlap with the third light-emitting region and may not overlap with the first light-emitting region and the second light-emitting region.

[0013] The above color pattern may include a colorant that transmits the third light and absorbs the first light and the second light.

[0014] The plurality of color filters include a first color filter that transmits the first light and a second color filter that transmits the second light, wherein the first color filter overlaps the first light-emitting region, and the second color filter overlaps the second light-emitting region.

[0015] The above color pattern and the plurality of color filters can overlap each other in the non-luminous area.

[0016] The above color pattern may have a refractive index lower than the refractive index of the plurality of color filters.

[0017] The above color pattern may have a refractive index that is 0.05 or more lower than the refractive index of the plurality of color filters.

[0018] The above overcoat layer may include at least one of a dye having a maximum absorption wavelength of 490 nm or a dye having a maximum absorption wavelength of 590 nm.

[0019] The above dye can absorb light in the wavelength range of 480 nm to 500 nm or 580 nm to 600 nm.

[0020] The side of the above color pattern can be arranged at a distance of 2 um or less outward from the side of the pixel defining film and at a distance of 1 um or less inward from the side of the pixel defining film.

[0021] In addition, according to one embodiment, a display device includes a substrate, a light-emitting element layer disposed on the substrate and including a pixel definition film that defines a plurality of light-emitting areas and non-light-emitting areas, an encapsulation layer disposed on the light-emitting element layer, a touch sensing layer disposed on the encapsulation layer and including a touch connection electrode, a driving electrode, and a color pattern disposed between the touch connection electrode and the driving electrode, a color filter layer disposed on the touch sensing layer and including a first color filter and a second color filter, and an overcoat layer disposed on the color filter layer, wherein the color pattern overlaps one of the plurality of light-emitting areas and the non-light-emitting area, the first color filter does not overlap the light-emitting area overlapping the color pattern, and the second color filter can overlap the light-emitting area overlapping the color pattern.

[0022] The plurality of light-emitting regions include a first light-emitting region emitting a first red light, a second light-emitting region emitting a second blue light, and a third light-emitting region emitting a third green light, and the color pattern overlaps the first light-emitting region, the first color filter overlaps the second light-emitting region, and the second color filter can overlap the first light-emitting region and the third light-emitting region.

[0023] The above color pattern may be a red color filter that transmits the first light, the first color filter may be a blue color filter that transmits the second light, and the second color filter may be a yellow color filter that transmits the first light and the third light.

[0024] The above color pattern, the first color filter, and the second color filter can overlap each other in the non-emitting area.

[0025] The color pattern may not overlap with the second light-emitting area and the third light-emitting area, the first color filter may not overlap with the first light-emitting area and the third light-emitting area, and the second color filter may not overlap with the second light-emitting area.

[0026] In addition, a display device according to one embodiment includes a substrate, a light-emitting element layer disposed on the substrate and including a pixel definition film that defines a plurality of light-emitting regions and a non-light-emitting region, an encapsulation layer disposed on the light-emitting element layer, a touch sensing layer disposed on the encapsulation layer and including a plurality of touch electrodes, a color filter layer disposed on the touch sensing layer and including a plurality of color filters, and an overcoat layer disposed on the color filter layer, wherein the plurality of color filters include a first color filter and a second color filter, and the first color filter may be disposed to overlap one light-emitting region among the plurality of light-emitting regions, and the second color filter may be disposed to overlap two or more remaining light-emitting regions among the plurality of light-emitting regions.

[0027] The plurality of light-emitting regions may include a first light-emitting region that emits a first red light, a second light-emitting region that emits a second blue light, and a third light-emitting region that emits a third green light, wherein the first color filter may be a blue color filter that transmits the second blue light, and the second color filter may be a yellow color filter that transmits the first red light and the third green light.

[0028] The first color filter may overlap the second light-emitting region and the non-light-emitting region, and the second color filter may overlap the first light-emitting region, the third light-emitting region, and the non-light-emitting region.

[0029] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings.

[0030] A display device according to one embodiment can improve light efficiency and reduce reflection of external light by arranging a color pattern on a touch sensing layer. Furthermore, by overlapping the color pattern and color filters or color filters in a non-light-emitting area, a black matrix can be omitted and reflection of external light can be reduced. Furthermore, by including a colorant that absorbs light of a specific wavelength range in the overcoat layer, reflection of external light can be reduced.

[0031] The effects according to the embodiments are not limited to those exemplified above, and more diverse effects are included in this specification.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a folding state of a foldable display device according to one embodiment.

[0034] Fig. 3 is a perspective view showing the unfolding state of the foldable display device of Fig. 2.

[0035] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a display device included in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0036] Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the display device of Fig. 4 viewed from the side.

[0037] Fig. 6 is a plan view showing a display layer of a display device according to one embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 7 is a plan view showing a touch sensing layer of a display device according to one embodiment.

[0039] FIG. 8 is a plan view showing the arrangement of light-emitting areas in a display area of ​​a display device according to one embodiment.

[0040] Fig. 9 is a plan view showing the arrangement of color filters arranged in the display area of ​​Fig. 8.

[0041] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line X-X' of Fig. 8.

[0042] Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of a portion of Fig. 10.

[0043] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating an overcoat layer of a display device according to one embodiment.

[0044] Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of a portion of Fig. 10.

[0045] Figure 14 is a plan view showing the second light-emitting region and the second opening.

[0046] Figures 15 to 18 are cross-sectional views showing a manufacturing method of a display device according to one embodiment, step by step.

[0047] Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a display device according to another embodiment.

[0048] Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a display device according to another embodiment.

[0049] Figure 21 is a graph simulating the red light efficiency ratio according to the distance between the pixel definition film and the side of the color pattern.

[0050] Figure 22 is a graph simulating the blue light efficiency ratio according to the distance between the pixel definition film and the side of the color pattern.

[0051] Figure 23 is a graph showing the transmittance by wavelength of the yellow color filter used in the simulation.

[0052] Figure 24 is a graph showing the transmittance by wavelength of a dye with a maximum absorption wavelength of 490 nm used in the simulation.

[0053] Figure 25 is a graph showing the transmittance by wavelength of a dye with a maximum absorption wavelength of 590 nm used in the simulation.

[0054] The advantages and features of the present invention, and the methods for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described in detail below 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 solely 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 solely by the scope of the claims.

[0055] When an element or layer is referred to as "on" another element or layer, it includes both cases where it is directly above the other element or layer or where there is another layer or material intervening therebetween. Similarly, when an element or layer is referred to as "below," "left," and "right," it includes both cases where it is directly adjacent to the other element or where there is another layer or material intervening therebetween. Like reference numerals throughout the specification refer to like elements.

[0056] Although terms like "first" and "second" are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another. Therefore, it should be understood that a "first" component referred to below may also be a "second" component within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0057] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0058] FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0059] Referring to FIG. 1, an electronic device (1) displays a moving image or still image. The electronic device (1) may refer to any electronic device that provides a display screen. For example, a television, laptop, monitor, billboard, Internet of Things, mobile phone, smart phone, 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 electronic device (1).

[0060] The electronic device (1) may include a display device ('10' in FIG. 4) that provides a display screen. Examples of the display device include an inorganic light-emitting diode display device, an organic light-emitting diode display device, a quantum dot light-emitting display device, a plasma display device, a field emission display device, etc. Hereinafter, as an example of the display device, an organic light-emitting diode display device is exemplified, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and if the same technical idea is applicable, it may be applied to other display devices.

[0061] The shape of the electronic device (1) can be modified in various ways. For example, the electronic device (1) can have a shape such as a long rectangle, a long rectangle, a square, a square with rounded corners (vertices), other polygons, a circle, etc. The shape of the display area (DA) of the electronic device (1) can also be similar to the overall shape of the electronic device (1). In Fig. 1, an electronic device (1) having a long rectangular shape in the second direction (DR2) is illustrated as an example.

[0062] An electronic device (1) may include a display area (DA) and a non-display area (NDA). The display area (DA) is an area where a screen can be displayed, and the non-display area (NDA) is an area where a screen cannot be displayed. The display area (DA) may be referred to as an active area, and the non-display area (NDA) may also be referred to as an inactive area. The display area (DA) may generally occupy the center of the electronic device (1).

[0063] Fig. 2 is a perspective view showing a folding state of a foldable display device according to one embodiment. Fig. 3 is a perspective view showing an unfolding state of the foldable display device of Fig. 2.

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, an electronic device (1) according to one embodiment may be a foldable display device. The foldable electronic device (1) may be folded around a folding axis (FDL). The display area (DA) may be arranged on the outer side and / or the inner side of the foldable electronic device (1). In one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (1) of FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrates a case where the display area (DA) is arranged on the outer side and the inner side, respectively.

[0065] The display area (DA) may be arranged on the outer side of the electronic device (1). The outer side of the folded electronic device (1) may include the display area (DA), and the inner side of the unfolded electronic device (1) may include the display area (DA).

[0066] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a display device included in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 4, an electronic device (1) according to one embodiment may include a display device (10). The display device (10) may provide a screen displayed on the electronic device (1). The display device (10) may have a similar planar shape to the electronic device (1). For example, the display device (10) may have a shape similar to a rectangle having a short side in a first direction (DR1) and a long side in a second direction (DR2). An edge where the short side in the first direction (DR1) meets the long side in the second direction (DR2) may be formed to be rounded to have a curvature, but is not limited thereto and may also be formed at a right angle. The planar shape of the display device (10) is not limited to a square, and may be formed similarly to other polygons, circles, or ovals.

[0068] The display device (10) may include a display panel (100), a display driver (200), a circuit board (300), and a touch driver (400).

[0069] The display panel (100) may include a main area (MA) and a sub area (SBA).

[0070] The main area (MA) may include a display area (DA) including pixels that display an image, and a non-display area (NDA) arranged around the display area (DA). The display area (DA) may emit light from a plurality of light-emitting areas or a plurality of aperture areas. For example, the display panel (100) may include a pixel circuit including switching elements, a pixel definition film defining a light-emitting area or an aperture area, and a self-light emitting element.

[0071] For example, the self-luminous element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of an organic light emitting diode (OLED) including an organic light emitting layer, a quantum dot LED including a quantum dot light emitting layer, an inorganic LED including an inorganic semiconductor, and a micro light emitting diode (Micro LED).

[0072] The non-display area (NDA) may be an area outside the display area (DA). The non-display area (NDA) may be defined as an edge area of ​​the main area (MA) of the display panel (100). The non-display area (NDA) may include a gate driver (not shown) that supplies gate signals to gate lines, and fan-out lines (not shown) that connect the display driver (200) and the display area (DA).

[0073] The sub-area (SBA) may be an area extending from one side of the main area (MA). The sub-area (SBA) may include a flexible material capable of bending, folding, rolling, etc. For example, when the sub-area (SBA) is bent, the sub-area (SBA) may overlap the main area (MA) in the thickness direction (third direction (DR3)). The sub-area (SBA) may include a display driver (200) and a pad portion connected to a circuit board (300). In another embodiment, the sub-area (SBA) may be omitted, and the display driver (200) and the pad portion may be disposed in the non-display area (NDA).

[0074] The display driver (200) can output signals and voltages for driving the display panel (100). The display driver (200) can supply data voltages to data lines. The display driver (200) can supply power voltage to a power line and supply a gate control signal to a gate driver. The display driver (200) can be formed as an integrated circuit (IC) and mounted on the display panel (100) using a COG (Chip on Glass) method, a COP (Chip on Plastic) method, or an ultrasonic bonding method. For example, the display driver (200) can be placed in the sub-area (SBA) and can overlap with the main area (MA) in the thickness direction by bending the sub-area (SBA). As another example, the display driver (200) can be mounted on a circuit board (300).

[0075] The circuit board (300) may be attached to the pad portion of the display panel (100) using an anisotropic conductive film (ACF). Lead lines of the circuit board (300) may be electrically connected to the pad portion of the display panel (100). The circuit board (300) may be a flexible printed circuit board, a printed circuit board, or a flexible film such as a chip on film.

[0076] The touch driver (400) may be mounted on the circuit board (300). The touch driver (400) may be connected to the touch sensing unit of the display panel (100). The touch driver (400) may supply a touch driving signal to a plurality of touch electrodes of the touch sensing unit and sense a change in electrostatic capacity between the plurality of touch electrodes. For example, the touch driving signal may be a pulse signal having a predetermined frequency. The touch driver (400) may calculate whether an input has occurred and the input coordinates based on the change in electrostatic capacity between the plurality of touch electrodes. The touch driver (400) may be formed as an integrated circuit (IC).

[0077] Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the display device of Fig. 4 viewed from the side.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 5, the display panel (100) may include a display layer (DU), a touch sensing layer (TSU), and a color filter layer (CFL). The display layer (DU) may include a substrate (SUB), a thin film transistor layer (TFTL), a light emitting element layer (EML), and an encapsulation layer (TFEL).

[0079] The substrate (SUB) may be a base substrate or a base member. The substrate (SUB) may be a flexible substrate capable of bending, folding, rolling, etc. For example, the substrate (SUB) may include a polymer resin such as polyimide (PI), but is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the substrate (SUB) may include a glass material or a metal material.

[0080] A thin film transistor layer (TFTL) may be disposed on a substrate (SUB). The thin film transistor layer (TFTL) may include a plurality of thin film transistors constituting pixel circuits of pixels. The thin film transistor layer (TFTL) may further include gate lines, data lines, power lines, gate control lines, fan out lines connecting the display driver (200) and the data lines, and lead lines connecting the display driver (200) and the pad portion. Each of the thin film transistors may include a semiconductor region, a source electrode, a drain electrode, and a gate electrode. For example, when the gate driver is formed on one side of the non-display area (NDA) of the display panel (100), the gate driver may include thin film transistors.

[0081] A thin film transistor layer (TFTL) can be arranged in a display area (DA), a non-display area (NDA), and a sub-area (SBA). Thin film transistors, gate lines, data lines, and power lines of each pixel of the thin film transistor layer (TFTL) can be arranged in the display area (DA). Gate control lines and fan-out lines of the thin film transistor layer (TFTL) can be arranged in the non-display area (NDA). Lead lines of the thin film transistor layer (TFTL) can be arranged in the sub-area (SBA).

[0082] An emission layer (EML) may be disposed on a thin film transistor layer (TFTL). The emission layer (EML) may include a plurality of emission elements that emit light, including a first electrode, a second electrode, and an emission layer, and a pixel definition film that defines pixels. The plurality of emission elements of the emission layer (EML) may be disposed in a display area (DA).

[0083] In one embodiment, the light-emitting layer may be an organic light-emitting layer comprising an organic material. The light-emitting layer may include a hole transporting layer, an organic light-emitting layer, and an electron transporting layer. When the first electrode receives a voltage through a thin film transistor of the thin film transistor layer (TFTL) and the second electrode receives a cathode voltage, holes and electrons may move to the organic light-emitting layer through the hole transporting layer and the electron transporting layer, respectively, and combine with each other in the organic light-emitting layer to emit light.

[0084] In other embodiments, the light-emitting device may include a quantum dot light-emitting diode comprising a quantum dot light-emitting layer, an inorganic light-emitting diode comprising an inorganic semiconductor, or a micro light-emitting diode.

[0085] The encapsulation layer (TFEL) can cover the top and side surfaces of the light emitting element layer (EML) and protect the light emitting element layer (EML). The encapsulation layer (TFEL) can include at least one inorganic film and at least one organic film for encapsulating the light emitting element layer (EML).

[0086] A touch sensing layer (TSU) may be disposed on an encapsulation layer (TFEL). The touch sensing layer (TSU) may include a plurality of touch electrodes for detecting a user's touch in a capacitive manner, and touch lines connecting the plurality of touch electrodes and a touch driver (400). For example, the touch sensing layer (TSU) may sense a user's touch in a mutual capacitance manner or a self-capacitance manner.

[0087] In another embodiment, the touch sensing layer (TSU) may be disposed on a separate substrate disposed on the display layer (DU). In this case, the substrate supporting the touch sensing layer (TSU) may be a base member encapsulating the display layer (DU).

[0088] A plurality of touch electrodes of the touch sensing layer (TSU) may be arranged in a touch sensor area overlapping a display area (DA). Touch lines of the touch sensing layer (TSU) may be arranged in a touch peripheral area overlapping a non-display area (NDA).

[0089] A color filter layer (CFL) may be disposed on a touch sensing layer (TSU). The color filter layer (CFL) may include a plurality of color filters corresponding to each of a plurality of light-emitting regions. Each of the color filters may selectively transmit light of a specific wavelength and block or absorb light of a different wavelength. The color filter layer (CFL) may absorb a portion of light entering from the outside of the display device (10) to reduce light reflected by external light. Therefore, the color filter layer (CFL) may prevent color distortion due to reflection of external light.

[0090] Since the color filter layer (CFL) is directly disposed on the touch sensing layer (TSU), the display device (10) may not require a separate substrate for the color filter layer (CFL). Accordingly, the thickness of the display device (10) may be relatively small.

[0091] Fig. 6 is a plan view showing a display layer of a display device according to one embodiment.

[0092] Referring to FIG. 6, the display layer (DU) may include a display area (DA) and a non-display area (NDA).

[0093] A display area (DA) may be arranged at the center of a display panel (100). A plurality of pixels (PX), a plurality of gate lines (GL), a plurality of data lines (DL), and a plurality of power lines (VL) may be arranged in the display area (DA). Each of the plurality of pixels (PX) may be defined as the smallest unit that emits light.

[0094] A plurality of gate lines (GL) can supply gate signals received from a gate driver (210) to a plurality of pixels (PX). The plurality of gate lines (GL) can extend in a first direction (DR1) and be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (DR2) intersecting the first direction (DR1).

[0095] A plurality of data lines (DL) can supply data voltages received from a display driver (200) to a plurality of pixels (PX). The plurality of data lines (DL) can extend in a second direction (DR2) and be spaced apart from each other in a first direction (DR1).

[0096] A plurality of power lines (VL) can supply a power voltage received from a display driver (200) to a plurality of pixels (PX). Here, the power voltage can be at least one of a driving voltage, an initialization voltage, a reference voltage, and a low-potential voltage. The plurality of power lines (VL) can extend in a second direction (DR2) and be spaced apart from each other in a first direction (DR1).

[0097] A non-display area (NDA) may surround a display area (DA). A gate driver (210), fan-out lines (FOL), and gate control lines (GCL) may be arranged in the non-display area (NDA). The gate driver (210) may generate a plurality of gate signals based on a gate control signal, and may sequentially supply the plurality of gate signals to a plurality of gate lines (GL) in a set order.

[0098] Fan out lines (FOL) can extend from the display driver (200) to the display area (DA). The fan out lines (FOL) can supply data voltages received from the display driver (200) to a plurality of data lines (DL).

[0099] A gate control line (GCL) can extend from the display driver (200) to the gate driver (210). The gate control line (GCL) can supply a gate control signal received from the display driver (200) to the gate driver (210).

[0100] The sub-area (SBA) may include a display driver (200), a pad area (PA), and first and second touch pad areas (TPA1, TPA2).

[0101] The display driver (200) can output signals and voltages for driving the display panel (100) to the fan out lines (FOL). The display driver (200) can supply a data voltage to the data line (DL) through the fan out lines (FOL). The data voltage can be supplied to a plurality of pixels (PX) and can control the brightness of the plurality of pixels (PX). The display driver (200) can supply a gate control signal to the gate driver (210) through the gate control line (GCL).

[0102] The pad area (PA), the first touch pad area (TPA1), and the second touch pad area (TPA2) may be positioned at the edge of the sub area (SBA). The pad area (PA), the first touch pad area (TPA1), and the second touch pad area (TPA2) may be electrically connected to the circuit board (300) using a material such as an anisotropic conductive film or a self assembly anisotropic conductive paste (SAP).

[0103] The pad area (PA) may include a plurality of display pad units (DP). The plurality of display pad units (DP) may be connected to a graphics system via a circuit board (300). The plurality of display pad units (DP) may be connected to the circuit board (300) to receive digital video data and supply the digital video data to the display driver (200).

[0104] FIG. 7 is a plan view showing a touch sensing layer of a display device according to one embodiment.

[0105] Referring to FIG. 7, the touch sensing layer (TSU) may include a touch sensor area (TSA) that detects a user's touch, and a touch peripheral area (TOA) arranged around the touch sensor area (TSA). The touch sensor area (TSA) may be arranged in a display area (DA) of the display device (10), and the touch peripheral area (TOA) may be arranged in a non-display area (NDA) of the display device (10).

[0106] A touch sensor area (TSA) may include a plurality of touch electrodes (SEN) and a plurality of dummy electrodes (DME). The plurality of touch electrodes (SEN) may form mutual capacitance or self-capacitance to detect the touch of an object or a person. The plurality of touch electrodes (SEN) may include a plurality of drive electrodes (TE), a plurality of sense electrodes (RE), and a bridge electrode (CE).

[0107] A plurality of driving electrodes (TE) can be arranged in a first direction (DR1) and a second direction (DR2). The plurality of driving electrodes (TE) can be spaced apart from each other in the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2). The driving electrodes (TE) adjacent to each other in the second direction (DR2) can be electrically connected through a bridge electrode (CE).

[0108] A plurality of driving electrodes (TE) can be connected to a first touch pad portion (TP1) via a driving line (TL). The driving line (TL) can include a lower driving line (TLa) and an upper driving line (TLb). For example, the driving electrodes (TE) arranged on the lower side of the touch sensor area (TSA) can be connected to the first touch pad portion (TP1) via the lower driving line (TLa), and the driving electrodes (TE) arranged on the upper side of the touch sensor area (TSA) can be connected to the first touch pad portion (TP1) via the upper driving line (TLb). The lower driving line (TLa) can extend through the lower side of the touch peripheral area (TOA) to the first touch pad portion (TP1). The upper driving line (TLb) can extend through the upper side, the left side, and the lower side of the touch peripheral area (TOA) to the first touch pad portion (TP1). The first touch pad unit (TP1) can be connected to the touch driver unit (400) through the circuit board (300).

[0109] The bridge electrode (CE) can be bent at least once. For example, the bridge electrode (CE) can have a bracket shape (“<” or “>”), but the planar shape of the bridge electrode (CE) is not limited thereto. The drive electrodes (TE) adjacent to each other in the second direction (DR2) can be connected by a plurality of bridge electrodes (CE), and even if any one of the bridge electrodes (CE) is disconnected, the drive electrodes (TE) can be stably connected through the remaining bridge electrodes (CE). The drive electrodes (TE) adjacent to each other can be connected by two bridge electrodes (CE), but the number of bridge electrodes (CE) is not limited thereto.

[0110] The bridge electrode (CE) may be arranged in a different layer from the plurality of drive electrodes (TE) and the plurality of sense electrodes (RE). The sense electrodes (RE) adjacent to each other in the first direction (DR1) may be electrically connected through a connecting portion arranged in the same layer as the plurality of drive electrodes (TE) or the plurality of sense electrodes (RE), and the drive electrodes (TE) adjacent to each other in the second direction (DR2) may be electrically connected to the plurality of drive electrodes (TE) or the plurality of sense electrodes (RE) through a bridge electrode (CE) arranged in a different layer. Therefore, even if the bridge electrode (CE) overlaps the plurality of sense electrodes (RE) in the Z-axis direction, the plurality of drive electrodes (TE) and the plurality of sense electrodes (RE) may be insulated from each other. Mutual capacitance may be formed between the drive electrode (TE) and the sense electrode (RE).

[0111] A plurality of sensing electrodes (RE) may extend in a first direction (DR1) and be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (DR2). The plurality of sensing electrodes (RE) may be arranged in the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2), and sensing electrodes (RE) adjacent to each other in the first direction (DR1) may be electrically connected through a connecting portion.

[0112] A plurality of sensing electrodes (RE) may be connected to a second touch pad portion (TP2) via a sensing line (RL). For example, sensing electrodes (RE) arranged on the right side of the touch sensor area (TSA) may be connected to the second touch pad portion (TP2) via the sensing line (RL). The sensing line (RL) may extend to the second touch pad portion (TP2) via the right side and the lower side of the touch peripheral area (TOA). The second touch pad portion (TP2) may be connected to the touch driver portion (400) via the circuit board (300).

[0113] Each of the plurality of dummy electrodes (DME) may be surrounded by a driving electrode (TE) or a sensing electrode (RE). Each of the plurality of dummy electrodes (DME) may be spaced apart from and insulated from the driving electrode (TE) or the sensing electrode (RE). Therefore, the dummy electrodes (DME) may be electrically floated.

[0114] The pad area (PA), the first touch pad area (TPA1), and the second touch pad area (TPA2) may be arranged at the edge of the sub area (SBA). The pad area (PA), the first touch pad area (TPA1), and the second touch pad area (TPA2) may be electrically connected to the circuit board (300) using a low-resistance, high-reliability material such as an anisotropic conductive film or a self-assembly anisotropic conductive paste (SAP).

[0115] A first touch pad area (TPA1) may be arranged on one side of the pad area (PA) and may include a plurality of first touch pad portions (TP1). The plurality of first touch pad portions (TP1) may be electrically connected to a touch driver (400) arranged on a circuit board (300). The plurality of first touch pad portions (TP1) may supply touch drive signals to a plurality of drive electrodes (TE) through a plurality of drive lines (TL).

[0116] The second touch pad area (TPA2) may be arranged on the other side of the pad area (PA) and may include a plurality of second touch pad portions (TP2). The plurality of second touch pad portions (TP2) may be electrically connected to a touch driver (400) arranged on a circuit board (300). The touch driver (400) may receive a touch sensing signal through a plurality of detection lines (RL) connected to the plurality of second touch pad portions (TP2) and may sense a change in mutual electrostatic capacitance between the driving electrode (TE) and the detection electrode (RE).

[0117] In another embodiment, the touch driver (400) can supply a touch driving signal to each of a plurality of driving electrodes (TE) and a plurality of sensing electrodes (RE), and can receive a touch sensing signal from each of the plurality of driving electrodes (TE) and the plurality of sensing electrodes (RE). The touch driver (400) can sense the amount of charge change of each of the plurality of driving electrodes (TE) and the plurality of sensing electrodes (RE) based on the touch sensing signal.

[0118] Fig. 8 is a plan view showing the arrangement of light-emitting areas in a display area of ​​a display device according to one embodiment. Fig. 9 is a plan view showing the arrangement of color filters arranged in the display area of ​​Fig. 8.

[0119] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the display device (10) may include a plurality of pixels (PX1, PX2, PX3) arranged in a display area (DA), light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) arranged in each pixel (PX1, PX2, PX3), and a non-light-emitting area (NEA). The plurality of pixels (PX1, PX2, PX3) may be arranged in a fourth direction (DR4) and a fifth direction (DR5) between a first direction (DR1) and a second direction (DR2). The first pixel (PX1), the second pixel (PX2), and the third pixel (PX3) may be arranged alternately along the fourth direction (DR4) and the fifth direction (DR5). For example, with respect to the first pixel (PX1), the second pixel (PX2) and the third pixel (PX3) may be arranged in the fourth direction (DR4) and the fifth direction (DR5). Multiple pixels (PX1, PX2, PX3) are pentiled in the display area (DA). TM Type, for example, diamond pentile TM They can be arranged in a type. However, the arrangement or arrangement of the pixels (PX1, PX2, PX3) is not limited to that shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. In some embodiments, a plurality of pixels (PX1, PX2, PX3) may be arranged in a linear or island-like pattern.

[0120] The light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) of each pixel (PX1, PX2, PX3) may include a first light-emitting area (EA1), a second light-emitting area (EA2), a third light-emitting area (EA3), and a fourth light-emitting area (EA4) that emit light of different colors. Unlike the first light-emitting area (EA1) and the second light-emitting area (EA2), the third light-emitting area (EA3) and the fourth light-emitting area (EA4) may emit light of the same color. The first to fourth light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) may emit red, blue, or green light, respectively, and the color of the light emitted from each light-emitting area (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) may vary depending on the type of light-emitting element ('ED' in FIG. 10) disposed in the light-emitting element layer (EML) described later. In an exemplary embodiment, the first light-emitting area (EA1) may emit a first red light, the second light-emitting area (EA2) may emit a second blue light, and the third light-emitting area (EA3) and the fourth light-emitting area (EA4) may emit a third green light, but this is not limited thereto.

[0121] Multiple light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) are pentile TM Type, for example, diamond pentile TMThey can be arranged in a type. For example, within each pixel (PX1, PX2, PX3), the first light-emitting area (EA1) and the second light-emitting area (EA2) can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a first direction (DR1), and the third light-emitting area (EA3) and the fourth light-emitting area (EA4) can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (DR2). The first light-emitting area (EA1) can be arranged to be spaced apart from the third light-emitting area (EA3) in a fifth direction (DR5), and can be spaced apart from the fourth light-emitting area (EA4) in a fourth direction (DR4). The second light-emitting area (EA2) can be arranged to be spaced apart from the third light-emitting area (EA3) in a fourth direction (DR4), and can be spaced apart from the fourth light-emitting area (EA4) in a fifth direction (DR5).

[0122] In the plurality of pixels (PX1, PX2, PX3), the plurality of first to fourth light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) may be arranged alternately in the fourth direction (DR4) or the fifth direction (DR5). For example, the plurality of light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) may be arranged in rows (R1, R2, R3, R4) arranged along the fourth direction (DR4) and columns (C1, C2, C3, C4) arranged along the fifth direction (DR5). In the first row (R1) and the third row (R3), the second light-emitting area (EA2) and the third light-emitting area (EA3) may be arranged alternately in the fourth direction (DR4). In the second row (R2) and the fourth row (R4), the first light-emitting area (EA1) and the fourth light-emitting area (EA4) may be arranged alternately along the fourth direction (DR4). In the first column (C1) and the third column (C3), the second light-emitting area (EA2) and the fourth light-emitting area (EA4) may be arranged alternately along the fifth direction (DR5). In the second column (C2) and the fourth column (C4), the first light-emitting area (EA1) and the third light-emitting area (EA3) may be arranged alternately along the fourth direction (DR4).

[0123] Alternatively, the plurality of light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) may be arranged along the first direction (DR1) or the second direction (DR2). The first light-emitting area (EA1) and the second light-emitting area (EA2) may be arranged alternately along the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2). The third light-emitting area (EA3) and the fourth light-emitting area (EA4) may be arranged alternately along the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2).

[0124] The first to fourth light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) may be defined by a plurality of openings (OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, OPE4) formed in a pixel defining film ('PDL' in FIG. 10) of a light-emitting element layer (EML) described later, respectively. For example, the first light-emitting area (EA1) may be defined by a first opening (OPE1) of the pixel defining film, the second light-emitting area (EA2) may be defined by a second opening (OPE2) of the pixel defining film, the third light-emitting area (EA3) may be defined by a third opening (OPE3) of the pixel defining film, and the fourth light-emitting area (EA4) may be defined by a fourth opening (OPE4) of the pixel defining film.

[0125] In an exemplary embodiment, the areas or sizes of the first to fourth light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) may be different from each other. In the embodiment of FIG. 8, the area of ​​the second light-emitting area (EA2) may be larger than the areas of the first light-emitting area (EA1), the third light-emitting area (EA3), and the fourth light-emitting area (EA4), and the area of ​​the first light-emitting area (EA1) may be larger than the areas of the third light-emitting area (EA3) and the fourth light-emitting area (EA4). The areas of the light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) may vary depending on the sizes of the openings (OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, OPE4) formed in the pixel defining film. Depending on the area of ​​the light-emitting area (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4), the intensity of light emitted from the corresponding light-emitting area (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) can vary, and by adjusting the area of ​​the light-emitting area (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4), the color of the screen displayed on the display device (10) or the electronic device (1) can be controlled. In the embodiment of FIG. 8, the area of ​​the second light-emitting area (EA2) is exemplified as being the largest, but is not limited thereto. The areas of the light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) can be freely adjusted depending on the color of the screen required in the display device (10) and the electronic device (1). In addition, the area of ​​the light-emitting area (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) is related to light efficiency, the lifespan of the light-emitting element (ED), etc., and may be in a trade-off relationship with reflection by external light. The area of ​​the light-emitting area (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) can be adjusted taking into consideration the above matters.

[0126] In addition, multiple openings (OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, OPE4) and multiple light exits (OPT1, OPT2, OPT3, OPT4) are illustrated and described as circular as an example, but are not limited thereto and can be applied in various ways, such as an oval or a polygonal structure with curved edges.

[0127] Each of the plurality of pixels (PX1, PX2, PX3) can express a white gradation by including first to fourth light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) arranged adjacent to each other. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the combination of light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) constituting one pixel group can be variously modified depending on the arrangement of the light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) and the color of the light emitted by them.

[0128] The non-emissive area (NEA) may be an area other than the emissive areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4). The non-emissive area (NEA) may be positioned between the emissive areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, and EA4). The non-emissive area (NEA) may overlap with the pixel defining layer. For example, the non-emissive area (NEA) may be the same area as the pixel defining layer.

[0129] The display device (10) may include a plurality of color filters (CF1, CF2) and a color pattern (CP) arranged on light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4). Each of the plurality of color filters (CF1, CF2) and the color pattern (CP) may be arranged to correspond to the light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4). For example, the color filters (CF1, CF2) and the color pattern (CP) may be arranged to overlap the light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4), or the openings (OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, OPE4), or the plurality of light-emitting areas (OPT1, OPT2, OPT3, OPT4). A plurality of light-emitting portions (OPT1, OPT2, OPT3, OPT4) can be formed to overlap with the openings (OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, OPE4) and can form a light-emitting area from which light emitted from the light-emitting area (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) is emitted. Each of the color filters (CF1, CF2) and the color pattern (CP) can have a larger area than the light-emitting portions (OPT1, OPT2, OPT3, OPT4) and the openings (OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, OPE4), and each of the color filters (CF1, CF2) and the color pattern (CP) can completely cover the light-emitting area formed by the light-emitting portions (OPT1, OPT2, OPT3, OPT4).

[0130] The color filters (CF1, CF2) and the color pattern (CP) may be arranged to correspond to different light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4), respectively. The color filters (CF1, CF2) may include a first color filter (CF1) and a second color filter (CF2). The color filters (CF1, CF2) and the color pattern (CP) may include a colorant, such as a dye or pigment, that absorbs light of a wavelength other than light of a specific wavelength, and may be arranged to correspond to the color of light emitted from the light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4).

[0131] For example, the first color filter (CF1) may be arranged to overlap the first light-emitting area (EA1) and may be a red color filter that transmits only the first red light. The second color filter (CF2) may be arranged to overlap the second light-emitting area (EA2) and may be a blue color filter that transmits only the second blue light. The color pattern (CP) may be arranged to overlap the third light-emitting area (EA3) and the fourth light-emitting area (EA4) and may be a green color filter that transmits only the third green light.

[0132] The first color filter (CF1) may be arranged to overlap the first light-emitting area (EA1) but not overlap the second light-emitting area (EA2), the third light-emitting area (EA3), and the fourth light-emitting area (EA4). The second color filter (CF2) may be arranged to overlap the second light-emitting area (EA2) but not overlap the first light-emitting area (EA1), the third light-emitting area (EA3), and the fourth light-emitting area (EA4). The color pattern (CP) may be arranged to overlap the third light-emitting area (EA3) and the fourth light-emitting area (EA4) but not overlap the first light-emitting area (EA1) and the second light-emitting area (EA2). The color filters (CF1, CF2) and the color pattern (CP) may be arranged to overlap the non-light-emitting area (NEA).

[0133] According to one embodiment, a plurality of color filters (CF1, CF2) and a color pattern (CP) may be arranged to partially overlap adjacent other color filters (CF1, CF2) and color patterns (CP). FIG. 9 illustrates an arrangement of color filters (CF1, CF2) and color patterns (CP) as viewed from above, and the color filters (CF1, CF2) and color patterns (CP) that overlap each other may overlap each other in a non-emission area (NEA).

[0134] The display device (10) can reduce the intensity of reflected light due to external light by overlapping the color filters (CF1, CF2) and the color pattern (CP). Furthermore, the color tone of the reflected light due to external light can be controlled by adjusting the arrangement, shape, and area of ​​the color filters (CF1, CF2) and the color pattern (CP) on a plan view.

[0135] A touch electrode (SEN) may be arranged between the light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4). The touch electrode (SEN) includes a driving electrode (TE) and a driving connection electrode (TC), and may include a sensing electrode, although not shown. The touch electrode (SEN) may be arranged to extend in the fourth direction (DR4) and the fifth direction (DR5), and may not overlap with the light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) and may be spaced apart from them. The touch electrode (SEN) may be arranged to overlap with a pixel defining layer ('PDL' in FIG. 10) including openings (OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, OPE4). In addition, the touch electrode (SEN) may also overlap with a first color filter (CF1), a second color filter (CF2), and a color pattern (CP). In Fig. 8, a touch electrode (SEN) is briefly illustrated, but the touch electrode (SEN) may be either the touch drive electrode (TE) or the sensing electrode (RE) of Fig. 7.

[0136] Meanwhile, the diameter of the openings (OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, OPE4) forming the light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) may be smaller than the diameter of the light-emitting areas (OPT1, OPT2, OPT3, OPT4). The light-emitting areas (OPT1, OPT2, OPT3, OPT4) may be defined between the overlapping areas of the first color filter (CF1), the second color filter (CF2), and the color pattern (CP). For each light-emitting area (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4), an aperture gap between the openings (OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, OPE4) and the light-emitting areas (OPT1, OPT2, OPT3, OPT4) may be defined. The above aperture spacing may be defined as the difference in diameter between the apertures (OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, OPE4) and the light-emitting portions (OPT1, OPT2, OPT3, OPT4) of the pixel defining layer (PDL). In the display device (10), the same light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) belonging to different pixels (PX1, PX2, PX3) may have different aperture spacings between the apertures (OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, OPE4) and the light-emitting portions (OPT1, OPT2, OPT3, OPT4). In the first pixel (PX1), the second pixel (PX2), and the third pixel (PX3), there are light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) that emit light of the same color, but the aperture spacing between the apertures (OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, OPE4) and the light-emitting areas (OPT1, OPT2, OPT3, OPT4) may be different.

[0137] For example, the first to third pixels (PX1, PX2, PX3) each include a first light-emitting area (EA1) that emits red light, but the aperture spacing of the first light-emitting area (EA1) in each pixel (PX1, PX2, PX3) may be different. Similarly, the second to fourth light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) in the first to third pixels (PX1, PX2, PX3) also emit light of the same color, but their respective aperture spacings may be different. In addition, the first to fourth light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) within each pixel (PX1, PX2, PX3, PX4) may also have different aperture spacings.

[0138] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line X-X' of Fig. 8. Fig. 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of Fig. 10. Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an overcoat layer of a display device according to one embodiment. Fig. 13 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of Fig. 10. Fig. 14 is a plan view showing a second light-emitting region and a second opening.

[0139] Figure 10 illustrates a cross-section across the first light-emitting area (EA1), the third light-emitting area (EA3), and the second light-emitting area (EA2).

[0140] In addition to FIGS. 8 and 9, the cross-sectional structure of the display device (10) will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 14.

[0141] A display panel (100) of a display device (10) according to one embodiment may include a display layer (DU), a touch sensing layer (TSU), a color filter layer (CFL), and an overcoat layer (OC). The display layer (DU) may include a substrate (SUB), a thin film transistor layer (TFTL), a light emitting element layer (EML), and an encapsulation layer (TFEL). The display panel (100) may include a reflection reduction layer (RPL) on the encapsulation layer (TFEL), and the reflection reduction layer (RPL) may include a touch sensing layer (TSU), a color filter layer (CFL), and an overcoat layer (OC).

[0142] The substrate (SUB) may be a base substrate or a base member. The substrate (SUB) may be a flexible substrate capable of bending, folding, rolling, etc. For example, the substrate (SUB) may include a polymer resin such as polyimide (PI), but is not limited thereto. In another example, the substrate (SUB) may include a glass material or a metal material.

[0143] A thin film transistor layer (TFTL) may include a first buffer layer (BF1), a lower metal layer (BML), a second buffer layer (BF2), a thin film transistor (TFT), a gate insulating layer (GI), a first interlayer insulating layer (ILD1), a capacitor electrode (CPE), a second interlayer insulating layer (ILD2), a first connection electrode (CNE1), a first passivation layer (PAS1), a second connection electrode (CNE2), and a second passivation layer (PAS2).

[0144] The first buffer layer (BF1) may be disposed on the substrate (SUB). The first buffer layer (BF1) may include an inorganic film capable of preventing the penetration of air or moisture. For example, the first buffer layer (BF1) may include a plurality of inorganic films alternately laminated.

[0145] The lower metal layer (BML) may be disposed on the first buffer layer (BF1). For example, the lower metal layer (BML) may be formed as a single layer or multiple layers made of one or an alloy of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), tantalum (Ta), and copper (Cu).

[0146] The second buffer layer (BF2) may cover the first buffer layer (BF1) and the lower metal layer (BML). The second buffer layer (BF2) may include an inorganic film capable of preventing the penetration of air or moisture. For example, the second buffer layer (BF2) may include a plurality of inorganic films alternately laminated.

[0147] A thin film transistor (TFT) may be disposed on the second buffer layer (BF2) and may constitute a pixel circuit of each of a plurality of pixels. For example, the thin film transistor (TFT) may be a driving transistor or a switching transistor of the pixel circuit. The thin film transistor (TFT) may include a semiconductor layer (ACT), a source electrode (SE), a drain electrode (DE), and a gate electrode (GE).

[0148] A semiconductor layer (ACT) may be disposed on a second buffer layer (BF2). The semiconductor layer (ACT) may overlap with the lower metal layer (BML) and the gate electrode (GE) in the thickness direction, and may be insulated from the gate electrode (GE) by a gate insulating layer (GI). A portion of the semiconductor layer (ACT) may be formed by conducting a material of the semiconductor layer (ACT) to form a source electrode (SE) and a drain electrode (DE).

[0149] The gate electrode (GE) may be disposed on the gate insulating layer (GI). The gate electrode (GE) may overlap the semiconductor layer (ACT) with the gate insulating layer (GI) interposed therebetween.

[0150] A gate insulating layer (GI) may be disposed on the semiconductor layer (ACT). For example, the gate insulating layer (GI) may cover the semiconductor layer (ACT) and the second buffer layer (BF2), and may insulate the semiconductor layer (ACT) from the gate electrode (GE). The gate insulating layer (GI) may include a contact hole through which the first connection electrode (CNE1) passes.

[0151] The first interlayer insulating layer (ILD1) may cover the gate electrode (GE) and the gate insulating layer (GI). The first interlayer insulating layer (ILD1) may include a contact hole through which the first connection electrode (CNE1) passes. The contact hole of the first interlayer insulating layer (ILD1) may be connected to the contact hole of the gate insulating layer (GI) and the contact hole of the second interlayer insulating layer (ILD2).

[0152] A capacitor electrode (CPE) may be disposed on a first interlayer insulating layer (ILD1). The capacitor electrode (CPE) may overlap with the gate electrode (GE) in the thickness direction. The capacitor electrode (CPE) and the gate electrode (GE) may form electrostatic capacitance.

[0153] The second interlayer insulating layer (ILD2) may cover the capacitor electrode (CPE) and the first interlayer insulating layer (ILD1). The second interlayer insulating layer (ILD2) may include a contact hole through which the first connection electrode (CNE1) passes. The contact hole of the second interlayer insulating layer (ILD2) may be connected to the contact hole of the first interlayer insulating layer (ILD1) and the contact hole of the gate insulating layer (GI).

[0154] A first connection electrode (CNE1) may be disposed on a second interlayer insulating layer (ILD2). The first connection electrode (CNE1) may electrically connect a drain electrode (DE) of a thin film transistor (TFT) to a second connection electrode (CNE2). The first connection electrode (CNE1) may be inserted into a contact hole formed in the second interlayer insulating layer (ILD2), the first interlayer insulating layer (ILD1), and the gate insulating layer (GI) to contact the drain electrode (DE) of the thin film transistor (TFT).

[0155] The first protective layer (PAS1) may cover the first connection electrode (CNE1) and the second interlayer insulating layer (ILD2). The first protective layer (PAS1) may protect the thin film transistor (TFT). The first protective layer (PAS1) may include a contact hole through which the second connection electrode (CNE2) passes.

[0156] The second connection electrode (CNE2) may be disposed on the first protective layer (PAS1). The second connection electrode (CNE2) may electrically connect the first connection electrode (CNE1) and the pixel electrode (AE) of the light emitting element (ED). The second connection electrode (CNE2) may be inserted into a contact hole formed in the first protective layer (PAS1) and may be brought into contact with the first connection electrode (CNE1).

[0157] The second protective layer (PAS2) may cover the second connection electrode (CNE2) and the first protective layer (PAS1). The second protective layer (PAS2) may include a contact hole through which the pixel electrode (AE) of the light-emitting element (ED) passes.

[0158] An emission layer (EML) may be disposed on a thin film transistor layer (TFTL). The emission layer (EML) may include an emission element (ED) and a pixel defining layer (PDL). The emission element (ED) may include a pixel electrode (AE), an emission layer (EL), and a common electrode (CO).

[0159] The pixel electrode (AE) may be disposed on the second passivation layer (PAS2). The pixel electrode (AE) may be disposed to overlap any one of the openings (OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, OPE4) of the pixel defining layer (PDL). The pixel electrode (AE) may be electrically connected to the drain electrode (DE) of the thin film transistor (TFT) via the first and second connection electrodes (CNE1, CNE2).

[0160] The light-emitting layer (EL) may be disposed on the pixel electrode (AE). For example, the light-emitting layer (EL) may be an organic light-emitting layer made of an organic material, but is not limited thereto. When the light-emitting layer (EL) corresponds to an organic light-emitting layer, when a thin film transistor (TFT) applies a predetermined voltage to the pixel electrode (AE) of the light-emitting element (ED), and the common electrode (CO) of the light-emitting element (ED) receives the common voltage or the cathode voltage, holes and electrons may move to the light-emitting layer (EL) through the hole transport layer and the electron transport layer, respectively, and the holes and electrons may combine with each other in the light-emitting layer (EL) to emit light.

[0161] The common electrode (CO) may be disposed on the light-emitting layer (EL). For example, the common electrode (CO) may be implemented in the form of an electrode common to all pixels, without being differentiated for each pixel. The common electrode (CO) may be disposed on the light-emitting layer (EL) in the first to third light-emitting regions (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4), and may be disposed on the pixel-defining layer (PDL) in an area excluding the first to third light-emitting regions (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4).

[0162] The common electrode (CO) can receive a common voltage or a low-potential voltage. When the pixel electrode (AE) receives a voltage corresponding to the data voltage and the common electrode (CO) receives a low-potential voltage, a potential difference is formed between the pixel electrode (AE) and the common electrode (CO), thereby causing the light-emitting layer (EL) to emit light.

[0163] A pixel defining layer (PDL) may include a plurality of openings (OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, OPE4) and may be disposed on a second passivation layer (PAS2) and a portion of a pixel electrode (AE). The pixel defining layer (PDL) may include a first opening (OPE1), a second opening (OPE2), a third opening (OPE3), and a fourth opening (OPE4), and each of the openings (OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, OPE4) may expose a portion of the pixel electrode (AE). As described above, each of the openings (OPE1, OPE2, OPE3, OPE4) of the pixel defining layer (PDL) may define a first to third light-emitting area (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4), and their areas or sizes may be different from each other. A pixel defining layer (PDL) can separate and insulate pixel electrodes (AE) of each of a plurality of light emitting elements (EDs).

[0164] The pixel defining layer (PDL) may include a light absorbing material to prevent light reflection. For example, the pixel defining layer (PDL) may include a polyimide (PI)-based binder and a mixture of red, green, and blue pigments. Alternatively, the pixel defining layer (PDL) may include a cardo-based binder resin and a mixture of a lactam black pigment and a blue pigment. Alternatively, the pixel defining layer (PDL) may include carbon black.

[0165] The encapsulation layer (TFEL) is disposed on the common electrode (CO) and can cover a plurality of light-emitting elements (ED). The encapsulation layer (TFEL) can include at least one inorganic film to prevent oxygen or moisture from penetrating the light-emitting element layer (EML). The encapsulation layer (TFEL) can include at least one organic film to protect the light-emitting element layer (EML) from foreign substances such as dust.

[0166] In an exemplary embodiment, the encapsulation layer (TFEL) may include a first encapsulation layer (TFE1), a second encapsulation layer (TFE2), and a third encapsulation layer (TFE3). The first encapsulation layer (TFE1) and the third encapsulation layer (TFE3) may be inorganic encapsulation layers, and the second encapsulation layer (TFE2) disposed therebetween may be an organic encapsulation layer.

[0167] The first encapsulating layer (TFE1) and the third encapsulating layer (TFE3) may each include one or more inorganic insulators. The inorganic insulators may include aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, tantalum oxide, hafnium oxide, zinc oxide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and / or silicon oxynitride.

[0168] The second encapsulating layer (TFE2) may include a polymer-based material. Examples of polymer-based materials include acrylic resins, epoxy resins, polyimides, and polyethylene. For example, the organic encapsulating layer (320) may include an acrylic resin, such as polymethyl methacrylate or polyacrylic acid. The second encapsulating layer (TFE2) may be formed by curing a monomer or applying a polymer.

[0169] A touch sensing layer (TSU) may be disposed on an encapsulation layer (TFEL). The touch sensing layer (TSU) may include a color pattern (CP), a touch electrode (SEN), and a passivation layer (SIL).

[0170] The color pattern (CP) may be arranged on the encapsulation layer (TFEL). The color pattern (CP) may be arranged to overlap with the third light-emitting area (EA3), the fourth light-emitting area (EA4), the third opening (OPE3), and the non-light-emitting area (NEA). The color pattern (CP) may be arranged to not overlap with the first light-emitting area (EA1) and the second light-emitting area (EA2).

[0171] A color pattern (CP) can selectively transmit light of a specific wavelength and block or absorb light of other wavelengths. The color pattern (CP) may include a colorant dispersed in a polymer resin. The polymer resin may be a transparent material with a low refractive index. The polymer resin may have a refractive index of 1.4 to 1.6. For example, the polymer resin may include at least one selected from acrylic, epoxy, phenol, polyimide, and polyamide resins. The color pattern (CP) may include a colorant such as a dye or pigment that absorbs light of a wavelength other than light of a specific wavelength. The color pattern (CP) may be a green color filter that transmits only a third green light and may absorb a first red light and a second blue light. The color pattern (CP) may be formed by coating and curing a solution in which the polymer resin and the colorant are mixed.

[0172] In another exemplary embodiment, the color pattern (CP) may further include hollow particles. The hollow particles may serve to lower the refractive index of the color pattern (CP). For example, the hollow particles may include one or more selected from the group consisting of silica (SiO2), magnesium fluoride (MgF2), and iron oxide (Fe3O4). The hollow particles included in the color pattern (CP) may be included in a weight ratio of 1% to 50% with respect to the polymer resin, thereby lowering the refractive index of the color pattern (CP).

[0173] The color pattern (CP) may have an inclined surface on a side adjacent to each of the light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4). The inclination angle (θ1) of the inclined surface may be about 60 to 85 degrees, and preferably 70 to 75 degrees. Some of the light emitted from the light-emitting elements (EDs) of each of the light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) may be directly emitted upward where the overcoat layer (OC) is disposed, but some may proceed toward the inclined surface of the color pattern (CP). In this case, the inclined surface of the color pattern (CP) may act as a total reflection surface, so that light incident on the inclined surface of the color pattern (CP) may be totally reflected and emitted upward.

[0174] The color pattern (CP) may have a lower refractive index than the first color filter (CF1) and the second color filter (CF2). The refractive index of the color pattern (CP) may be at least 0.05 lower than the refractive index of the first color filter (CF1) and the refractive index of the second color filter (CF2). Some of the light refracted at the inclined surface of the color pattern (CP) may be refracted upward at the interface of the first color filter (CF1) with a relatively high refractive index, thereby improving light emission efficiency.

[0175] Among the touch electrodes (SEN), the touch connection electrode (TC) is disposed below the color pattern (CP), and the drive electrode (TE) may be disposed on the color pattern (CP). Although not illustrated, the sensing electrode (RE) of the touch electrode (SEN) may be disposed on the color pattern (CP). The touch connection electrode (TC) may be a bridge electrode. Each of the touch electrodes (SEN) may not overlap with the first to fourth light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4). The color pattern (CP) may function as an insulating film that insulates the touch electrodes (SEN). For example, the color pattern (CP) may insulate the driving electrode (TE) and the sensing electrode from each other.

[0176] Each touch electrode (SEN) may be formed as a single layer of molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), tantalum (Ta), aluminum (Al), or indium tin oxide (ITO), or may be formed as a laminated structure of aluminum and titanium (Ti / Al / Ti), a laminated structure of aluminum and ITO (ITO / Al / ITO), an APC alloy, or a laminated structure of APC alloy and ITO (ITO / APC / ITO).

[0177] The passivation layer (SIL) can insulate the driving electrode (TE) and protect the underlying color pattern (CP) from subsequent processes. The passivation layer (SIL) can cover the driving electrode (TE) and the color pattern (CP). The passivation layer (SIL) can be in direct contact with the third encapsulation layer (TFE3) of the encapsulation layer (TFEL) in each light-emitting area (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4).

[0178] A color filter layer (CFL) may be disposed on the touch sensing layer (TSU). The color filter layer (CFL) may include a first color filter (CF1) and a second color filter (CF2).

[0179] The first color filter (CF1) may be disposed on the passivation layer (SIL). The first color filter (CF1) may be disposed to overlap the first light-emitting area (EA1), the first opening (OPE1), and the non-light-emitting area (NEA). The first color filter (CF1) may be disposed to not overlap the second light-emitting area (EA2), the third light-emitting area (EA3), and the fourth light-emitting area (EA4). In addition, the first color filter (CF1) may be disposed to overlap the color pattern (CP) in an area other than the first light-emitting area (EA1). For example, the first color filter (CF1) may be disposed to overlap the color pattern (CP) in the non-light-emitting area (NEA).

[0180] The first color filter (CF1) can selectively transmit light of a specific wavelength and block or absorb light of other wavelengths. The first color filter (CF1) can be a red color filter that transmits only red first light, and can absorb blue second light and green third light.

[0181] The second color filter (CF2) may be disposed on the passivation layer (SIL) and the first color filter (CF1). The second color filter (CF2) may be disposed to overlap the second light-emitting area (EA2), the second opening (OPE2), and the non-light-emitting area (NEA). The second color filter (CF2) may be disposed to not overlap the first light-emitting area (EA1), the third light-emitting area (EA3), and the fourth light-emitting area (EA4).

[0182] The second color filter (CF2) can selectively transmit light of a specific wavelength and block or absorb light of other wavelengths. The second color filter (CF2) can be a blue color filter that transmits only blue second light, and can absorb red first light and green third light.

[0183] In one embodiment, the second color filter (CF2) may be arranged to overlap the color pattern (CP) and the first color filter (CF1) in an area other than the second emission area (EA2). For example, the second color filter (CF2) may be arranged to overlap the color pattern (CP) and the first color filter (CF1) in the non-emission area (NEA). In the remaining areas excluding each emission area (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4), the color pattern (CP), the first color filter (CF1), and the second color filter (CF2) may overlap to function as a black matrix. This can improve the color reproducibility of the display device (10) by preventing visible light from interfering with and causing color mixing between each emission area (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4). In addition, the black matrix can be omitted, thereby simplifying the structure.

[0184] An overcoat layer (OC) may be disposed on a color filter layer (CFL). The overcoat layer (OC) may cover the color filter layer (CFL) to level the underlying steps. The overcoat layer (OC) may include an organic material, for example, polyimide (PI).

[0185] As illustrated in Fig. 12, the overcoat layer (OC) may further include a dye that can selectively absorb light of a specific wavelength range. The overcoat layer (OC) may absorb light of a portion of the wavelength range of light incident from the outside, thereby reducing the reflectance of external light. The overcoat layer (OC) may include a dye (DY) mixed into the polymer resin (RS). The dye (DY) may include a dye having a maximum absorption wavelength of 490 nm or 590 nm. Here, the maximum absorption wavelength may refer to a peak wavelength having the lowest light transmittance in Figs. 24 and 25. For example, the dye (DY) may include a dye that can absorb light in a wavelength range of 480 nm to 500 nm or a wavelength range of 580 nm to 600 nm.

[0186] According to the present embodiment, the color pattern (CP), the color filter layer (CFL), and the overcoat layer (OC) of the touch sensing layer (TSU) may be included as a reflection reduction layer (RPL). The reflection reduction layer (RPL) can reduce the reflection of externally incident light. When external light is incident, some wavelengths of light are absorbed by the overcoat layer (OC), some wavelengths of light are absorbed by the color filter layer (CFL), and some wavelengths of light are absorbed by the color pattern (CP). Accordingly, most of the external light incident on the display device (10) is absorbed by the reflection reduction layer (RPL) and reflected back to the outside, thereby significantly reducing the amount of light emitted.

[0187] In addition, by forming a color pattern (CP) with a total reflection surface and low refractive index characteristics, the light emitted from each light-emitting area (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) can be reflected upward, thereby improving the light emission efficiency.

[0188] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, a display device (10) according to one embodiment can be formed to have a predetermined distance (G) between each light-emitting area (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) and the side of each color pattern (CP). The second light-emitting area (EA2) will be described below as an example.

[0189] The second light-emitting area (EA2) may be defined by a second opening (OPE2) of the pixel defining layer (PDL). That is, the second light-emitting area (EA2) may be an area surrounded by the side of the pixel defining layer (PDL). When viewed in a plan view, the second light-emitting area (EA2) may be surrounded by the side of the color pattern (CP).

[0190] According to one embodiment, the side of the pixel defining layer (PDL) of each light-emitting area (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4) on the plane may be arranged within a predetermined distance (G) from the side of the color pattern (CP) surrounding the corresponding light-emitting area. For example, the distance (G) between the side of the pixel defining layer (PDL) and the side of the color pattern (CP) may be in the range of -1 μm to +2 μm. Preferably, the distance (G) between the side of the pixel defining layer (PDL) and the side of the color pattern (CP) may be in the range of -0.5 μm to +1.5 μm. Here, plus (+) may mean the distance by which the side of the color pattern (CP) is spaced outward from the side of the pixel defining layer (PDL), and minus (-) may mean the distance by which the side of the color pattern (CP) is spaced inward from the side of the pixel defining layer (PDL). In addition, the outer side from the side of the pixel defining layer (PDL) means the outer side of the second light emitting area (EA2), and the inner side from the side of the pixel defining layer (PDL) means the inner side of the second light emitting area (EA2). For example, the distance from the side of the pixel defining layer (PDL) to the outside of the color pattern (CP) may be within 2 μm, and the distance from the side of the pixel defining layer (PDL) to the inside of the color pattern (CP) may be within 1 μm. The side of the color pattern (CP) may be arranged at a distance of 2 μm or less from the side of the pixel defining layer (PDL) to the outside, and at a distance of 1 μm or less from the side of the pixel defining layer (PDL) to the inside.

[0191] When the distance between the side of the pixel defining layer (PDL) and the side of the color pattern (CP) is within the above range, the efficiency of light emitted from the light emitting element (ED) being totally reflected at the side (e.g., inclined surface) of the color pattern (CP) and being emitted upward can be improved.

[0192] Figures 15 to 18 are cross-sectional views illustrating a manufacturing method of a display device according to one embodiment, step by step. The manufacturing method of the display device of Figures 15 to 18 will be described by way of example, manufacturing it in accordance with the structure of Figure 10. In addition, the manufacturing process of the display layer (DU) will be briefly described.

[0193] Referring to Figure 15, a thin film transistor layer (TFTL), a light emitting element layer (EML), and an encapsulation layer (TFEL) are formed on a substrate (SUB). The thin film transistor layer (TFTL), the light emitting element layer (EML), and the encapsulation layer (TFEL) can be formed using a photo process, an inkjet printing process, or the like.

[0194] A touch connection electrode (TC) is formed on the encapsulation layer (TFEL). The touch connection electrode (TC) can be formed by stacking a conductive layer and patterning it through a photo process.

[0195] Next, a color pattern (CP) is formed on the encapsulation layer (TFEL) on which the touch connection electrode (TC) is formed. The color pattern (CP) can be formed by applying a solution containing a polymer resin and a coloring material and performing a photo process using a mask. The color pattern (CP) can be formed to overlap the third light-emitting area (EA3) and not overlap the first light-emitting area (EA1) and the second light-emitting area (EA2). In addition, the color pattern (CP) can be formed to overlap the non-light-emitting area (EA). A contact hole (CT) exposing the touch connection electrode (TC) can be formed in the color pattern (CP).

[0196] Next, referring to FIG. 16, a driving electrode (TE) of a touch electrode (SEN) is formed on a color pattern (CP). The driving electrode (TE) can be formed by stacking a conductive layer and patterning it through a photo process. The driving electrode (TE) can be connected to a touch connection electrode (TC) through a contact hole (CT) of the color pattern (CP).

[0197] Next, an inorganic or organic material is applied to the substrate (SUB) on which the driving electrode (TE) is formed to form a passivation layer (SIL). The passivation layer (SIL) can be formed over the entire surface of each of the light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3) and the non-light-emitting area (NEA). Accordingly, a touch sensing layer (TSU) including a color pattern (CP), a touch connection electrode (TC), a driving electrode (TE), and a passivation layer (SIL) is formed.

[0198] Next, a first color filter (CF1) is formed on the passivation layer (SIL). The first color filter (CF1) can be formed by applying a solution containing a polymer resin and a coloring material and performing a photo process using a mask. The first color filter (CF1) can be formed to overlap the first light-emitting area (EA1) and not overlap the second light-emitting area (EA2) and the third light-emitting area (EA3). In addition, the first color filter (CF1) can be formed to overlap the color pattern (CP) of the non-light-emitting area (EA).

[0199] Next, referring to FIG. 17, a second color filter (CF2) is formed on the first color filter (CF1). The second color filter (CF2) can be formed by applying a solution containing a polymer resin and a coloring material and performing a photo process using a mask. The second color filter (CF2) can be formed to overlap the second light-emitting area (EA2) and not overlap the first light-emitting area (EA1) and the third light-emitting area (EA3). In addition, the second color filter (CF2) can be formed to overlap the color pattern (CP) of the non-light-emitting area (EA) and the first color filter (CF1). Accordingly, a color filter layer (CFL) including the first color filter (CF1) and the second color filter (CF2) is formed.

[0200] Next, referring to FIG. 18, an overcoat layer (OC) is formed on the second color filter (CF2). The overcoat layer (OC) can be formed by applying a polymer resin and performing a photo process using a mask. The overcoat layer (OC) covers the first color filter (CF1), the second color filter (CF2), and the color pattern (CP), and can be formed over the entire area of ​​each of the light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3) and the non-light-emitting area (NEA).

[0201] In the manufacturing process of the above-described display device (10), a total of three masks may be used to manufacture the color filter layer (CFL) and the overcoat layer (OC) formed on the touch sensing layer (TSU). Typically, four masks are used to form the color filter layer (CFL) including a red color filter, a green color filter, a blue color filter, and a black matrix. In the present invention, by omitting the green color filter and the black matrix, there is an advantage in that a total of two masks can be reduced.

[0202] Hereinafter, a display device according to another embodiment will be described with reference to other drawings.

[0203] Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a display device according to another embodiment.

[0204] Referring to FIG. 19, this embodiment differs from the aforementioned FIG. 10 in that the color pattern (CP) is removed and a first color filter (CF1), which is a blue color filter, and a second color filter (CF2), which is a yellow color filter, are formed on the color filter layer (CFL). Hereinafter, descriptions overlapping with the aforementioned embodiment will be omitted and the differences will be described.

[0205] A touch sensing layer (TSU) may be disposed on the encapsulation layer (TFEL). The touch sensing layer (TSU) may include a touch connection electrode (TC), a first passivation layer (SIL1), a driving electrode (TE), and a second passivation layer (SIL2).

[0206] A touch connection electrode (TC) may be disposed on an encapsulation layer (TFEL). The touch connection electrode (TC) may serve to connect a driving electrode (TE). The touch connection electrode (TC) may be disposed to overlap a non-emitting area (NEA).

[0207] The first passivation layer (SIL1) may have insulating and optical functions. The first passivation layer (SIL1) may be disposed on the touch connection electrode (TC). The first passivation layer (SIL1) may include at least one inorganic film or organic film. Optionally, the first passivation layer (SIL1) may be omitted.

[0208] The driving electrode (TE) may be disposed on the first passivation layer (SIL1). The driving electrode (TE) may be connected to the touch connection electrode (TC). The driving electrode (TE) may be disposed to overlap the non-emitting area (NEA).

[0209] The second passivation layer (SIL2) may be disposed on the first passivation layer (SIL1) and the driving electrode (TE). The second passivation layer (SIL2) may cover the first passivation layer (SIL1) and the driving electrode (TE). The second passivation layer (SIL2) may have insulating and optical functions. For example, the second passivation layer (SIL2) may be an inorganic film or an organic film including at least one of a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, and an aluminum oxide layer.

[0210] A color filter layer (CFL) may be disposed on the touch sensing layer (TSU). The color filter layer (CFL) may include a first color filter (CF1) and a second color filter (CF2).

[0211] The first color filter (CF1) may be disposed on the second passivation layer (SIL2). The first color filter (CF1) may be disposed to overlap the second light-emitting area (EA2), the second opening (OPE2), and the non-light-emitting area (NEA). The second color filter (CF2) may be disposed to not overlap the first light-emitting area (EA1) and the third light-emitting area (EA3). In addition, the first color filter (CF1)

[0212] The first color filter (CF1) can selectively transmit light of a specific wavelength and block or absorb light of other wavelengths. The first color filter (CF1) can be a blue color filter that transmits only blue second light, and can absorb red first light and green third light.

[0213] The second color filter (CF2) may be disposed on the second passivation layer (SIL2) and the first color filter (CF1). The second color filter (CF2) may be disposed to overlap the first light-emitting area (EA1), the first opening (OPE1), the third light-emitting area (EA3), the third opening (OPE3), and the non-light-emitting area (NEA). The second color filter (CF2) may be disposed to not overlap the second light-emitting area (EA2).

[0214] The second color filter (CF2) can selectively transmit light of a specific wavelength and block or absorb light of other wavelengths. The second color filter (CF2) may be a yellow color filter that transmits only the fourth light of yellow. For example, the second color filter (CF2) can transmit the first red light and the third green light and absorb the second blue light.

[0215] In one embodiment, the second color filter (CF2) may be arranged to overlap the first color filter (CF1) in an area other than the second emission area (EA2). For example, the second color filter (CF2) may be arranged to overlap the first color filter (CF1) in the non-emission area (NEA). In the remaining areas excluding each emission area (EA1, EA2, EA3), the first color filter (CF1) and the second color filter (CF2) may overlap and function as a black matrix. This may improve the color reproducibility of the display device (10) by preventing visible light from interfering with and causing color mixing between each emission area (EA1, EA2, EA3). In addition, the black matrix may be omitted, thereby simplifying the structure.

[0216] In addition, the second color filter (CF2) is arranged to overlap the first light-emitting area (EA1) and the third light-emitting area (EA3), so that the first red light emitted from the first light-emitting area (EA1) and the third green light emitted from the third light-emitting area (EA3) may not be prevented from being transmitted and emitted.

[0217] In addition, since the first color filter (CF1), the second color filter (CF2), or the first color filter (CF1) and the second color filter (CF2) entirely cover each of the light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3) and the non-light-emitting area (NEA), most of the external light incident from the outside can be absorbed, thereby reducing the reflectance of the external light.

[0218] An overcoat layer (OC) may be disposed on a color filter layer (CFL). The overcoat layer (OC) may cover the color filter layer (CFL) to level the underlying step. The overcoat layer (OC) may include an organic material, for example, polyimide (PI). In addition, as described above, the overcoat layer (OC) may further include a dye that can selectively absorb light of a specific wavelength range. The overcoat layer (OC) may absorb light of a portion of the wavelength range of light incident from the outside, thereby reducing the reflectance of external light.

[0219] According to the present embodiment, the color filter layer (CFL) and the overcoat layer (OC) may be included as a reflection reduction layer (RPL). The reflection reduction layer (RPL) can reduce the reflection of externally incident light. When external light is incident, some wavelengths of light are absorbed by the overcoat layer (OC) and some wavelengths of light are absorbed by the color filter layer (CFL). Accordingly, most of the external light incident on the display device (10) is absorbed by the reflection reduction layer (RPL) and reflected back to the outside, thereby significantly reducing the amount of light emitted.

[0220] Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a display device according to another embodiment.

[0221] Referring to FIG. 20, this embodiment differs from the embodiment of FIG. 19 described above in that the touch sensing layer (TSU) further includes a color pattern (CP) including a colorant that absorbs a first red light. Hereinafter, descriptions overlapping with the above-described embodiment will be omitted, and the differences will be described.

[0222] A touch sensing layer (TSU) may be disposed on an encapsulation layer (TFEL). The touch sensing layer (TSU) may include a color pattern (CP), a touch connection electrode (TC), a driving electrode (TE), and a passivation layer (SIL).

[0223] A color pattern (CP) may be arranged on the encapsulation layer (TFEL). The color pattern (CP) may be arranged to overlap the first light-emitting area (EA1), the first opening (OPE1), and the non-light-emitting area (NEA). The color pattern (CP) may be arranged to not overlap the second light-emitting area (EA2) and the third light-emitting area (EA3).

[0224] A color pattern (CP) can selectively transmit light of a specific wavelength and block or absorb light of other wavelengths. The color pattern (CP) may include a colorant dispersed in a polymer resin. The polymer resin may be a transparent material with a low refractive index. The polymer resin may have a refractive index of 1.4 to 1.6. For example, the polymer resin may include at least one selected from acrylic, epoxy, phenol, polyimide, and polyamide resins. The color pattern (CP) may include a colorant, such as a dye or pigment, that absorbs light of a wavelength other than light of a specific wavelength. The color pattern (CP) may be a red color filter that transmits only a first red light and may absorb a second blue light and a third green light. The color pattern (CP) may be formed by coating and curing a solution in which the polymer resin and the colorant are mixed.

[0225] In another exemplary embodiment, the color pattern (CP) may further include hollow particles. The hollow particles may serve to lower the refractive index of the color pattern (CP). For example, the hollow particles may include one or more selected from the group consisting of silica (SiO2), magnesium fluoride (MgF2), and iron oxide (Fe3O4). The hollow particles included in the color pattern (CP) may be included in a weight ratio of 1% to 50% with respect to the polymer resin, thereby lowering the refractive index of the color pattern (CP).

[0226] The color pattern (CP) may have an inclined surface on a side adjacent to each of the light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4). The inclination angle (θ1) of the inclined surface may be about 60 to 85 degrees, and preferably 70 to 75 degrees. Some of the light emitted from the light-emitting elements (EDs) of each of the light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3) may be directly emitted upward where the overcoat layer (OC) is disposed, but some may proceed toward the inclined surface of the color pattern (CP). In this case, the inclined surface of the color pattern (CP) may act as a total reflection surface, so that light incident on the inclined surface of the color pattern (CP) may be totally reflected and emitted upward.

[0227] The color pattern (CP) may have a lower refractive index than the first color filter (CF1) and the second color filter (CF2). The refractive index of the color pattern (CP) may be 0.05 or more lower than the refractive index of the first color filter (CF1) and the refractive index of the second color filter (CF2). Some of the light refracted at the inclined surface of the color pattern (CP) may be refracted upward at the interface of the first color filter (CF1) or the second color filter (CF2) having a relatively high refractive index, thereby improving light emission efficiency.

[0228] Among the touch electrodes (SEN), the touch connection electrode (TC) may be disposed below the color pattern (CP), and the driving electrode (TE) may be disposed on the color pattern (CP). Each of the touch electrodes (SEN) may not overlap with the first to third light-emitting areas (EA1, EA2, EA3). The color pattern (CP) may function as an insulating film that insulates the touch electrodes (SEN).

[0229] The passivation layer (SIL) can insulate the driving electrode (TE) of the touch electrode (SEN) and protect the underlying color pattern (CP) from subsequent processes.

[0230] A color filter layer (CFL) may be disposed on the touch sensing layer (TSU). The color filter layer (CFL) may include a first color filter (CF1) and a second color filter (CF2).

[0231] The first color filter (CF1) may be disposed on the passivation layer (SIL). The first color filter (CF1) may be disposed to overlap the second light-emitting area (EA2), the second opening (OPE2), and the non-light-emitting area (NEA). The first color filter (CF1) may be disposed to not overlap the first light-emitting area (EA1) and the third light-emitting area (EA3). In addition, the first color filter (CF1) may be disposed to overlap the color pattern (CP) in an area other than the second light-emitting area (EA2). For example, the first color filter (CF1) may be disposed to overlap the color pattern (CP) in the non-light-emitting area (NEA).

[0232] The first color filter (CF1) can selectively transmit light of a specific wavelength and block or absorb light of other wavelengths. The first color filter (CF1) can be a blue color filter that transmits only blue second light, and can absorb red first light and green third light.

[0233] The second color filter (CF2) may be disposed on the passivation layer (SIL) and the first color filter (CF1). The second color filter (CF2) may be disposed to overlap the first light-emitting area (EA1), the first opening (OPE1), the third light-emitting area (EA3), the third opening (OPE3), and the non-light-emitting area (NEA). The second color filter (CF2) may be disposed to not overlap the second light-emitting area (EA2).

[0234] The second color filter (CF2) can selectively transmit light of a specific wavelength and block or absorb light of other wavelengths. The second color filter (CF2) may be a yellow color filter that transmits only the fourth light of yellow. For example, the second color filter (CF2) can transmit the first red light and the third green light and absorb the second blue light.

[0235] In one embodiment, the second color filter (CF2) may be arranged to overlap the color pattern (CP) and the first color filter (CF1) in an area other than the second emission area (EA2). For example, the second color filter (CF2) may be arranged to overlap the color pattern (CP) and the first color filter (CF1) in the non-emission area (NEA). In the remaining areas excluding each emission area (EA1, EA2, EA3), the color pattern (CP), the first color filter (CF1), and the second color filter (CF2) may overlap to function as a black matrix. This can improve the color reproducibility of the display device (10) by preventing visible light from interfering with and causing color mixing between each emission area (EA1, EA2, EA3, EA4). In addition, the black matrix can be omitted, thereby simplifying the structure.

[0236] In addition, the second color filter (CF2) is arranged to overlap the first light-emitting area (EA1) and the third light-emitting area (EA3), so that the first red light emitted from the first light-emitting area (EA1) and the third green light emitted from the third light-emitting area (EA3) may not be prevented from being transmitted and emitted.

[0237] In addition, since the color pattern (CP), the first color filter (CF1), and the second color filter (CF2) cover the entire light-emitting area (EA1, EA2, EA3) and the non-light-emitting area (NEA), most of the external light incident from the outside can be absorbed, thereby reducing the reflectance of the external light.

[0238] An overcoat layer (OC) may be disposed on a color filter layer (CFL). The overcoat layer (OC) may cover the color filter layer (CFL) to level the underlying step. The overcoat layer (OC) may include an organic material, for example, polyimide (PI). In addition, as described above, the overcoat layer (OC) may further include a dye that can selectively absorb light of a specific wavelength range. The overcoat layer (OC) may absorb light of a portion of the wavelength range of light incident from the outside, thereby reducing the reflectance of external light.

[0239] According to the present embodiment, the color pattern (CP), the color filter layer (CFL), and the overcoat layer (OC) of the touch sensing layer (TSU) may be included as a reflection reduction layer (RPL). The reflection reduction layer (RPL) can reduce the reflection of externally incident light. When external light is incident, some wavelengths of light are absorbed by the overcoat layer (OC), some wavelengths of light are absorbed by the color filter layer (CFL), and some wavelengths of light are absorbed by the color pattern (CP). Accordingly, most of the external light incident on the display device (10) is absorbed by the reflection reduction layer (RPL) and reflected back to the outside, thereby significantly reducing the amount of light emitted.

[0240] In addition, by forming a color pattern (CP) with a total reflection surface and low refractive index characteristics, the light emitted from each light-emitting area (EA1, EA2, EA3) can be reflected upward, thereby improving the light emission efficiency.

[0241] Figure 21 is a graph simulating the red light efficiency ratio according to the distance between the pixel defining layer and the sides of the color pattern. Figure 22 is a graph simulating the blue light efficiency ratio according to the distance between the pixel defining layer and the sides of the color pattern.

[0242] Referring to Fig. 21, it was confirmed that the red light efficiency ratio was highest at approximately 1.2 when the distance between the pixel defining film and the sides of the color pattern was 0, and that the efficiency ratio was high at approximately 1.1 or higher in the range of -0.5 ㎛ to 1.5 ㎛.

[0243] Referring to Fig. 22, it was confirmed that the blue light efficiency ratio was highest at approximately 1.16 when the distance between the pixel defining film and the sides of the color pattern was 0, and that the efficiency ratio was high at approximately 1.1 or higher in the range of -0.5 ㎛ to 1.5 ㎛.

[0244] Through this result, it can be seen that a distance between the pixel defining film and the sides of the color pattern in the range of -0.5㎛ to 1.5㎛ is advantageous in terms of light efficiency.

[0245] Table 1 below shows the results of simulating the light efficiency and reflection characteristics according to the structure of the display device. Fig. 23 is a graph showing the transmittance by wavelength of the yellow color filter used in the simulation, Fig. 24 is a graph showing the transmittance by wavelength of the dye with a maximum absorption wavelength of 490 nm used in the simulation, and Fig. 25 is a graph showing the transmittance by wavelength of the dye with a maximum absorption wavelength of 590 nm used in the simulation.

[0246] In Table 1 below. Example 1 has a structure as shown in FIG. 10, including a color pattern (CP) that transmits green light, a first color filter (CF1) that transmits red light, and a second color filter (CF2) that transmits blue light, and is configured to include a dye having a maximum absorption wavelength of 590 nm in the overcoat layer (OC). Example 2 has a structure as shown in FIG. 19, including a first color filter (CF1) that transmits blue light and a second color filter (CF2) that transmits yellow light, and is configured to include dyes having maximum absorption wavelengths of 590 nm and 490 nm in the overcoat layer (OC). Example 3 is a structure illustrated in Fig. 20, comprising a color pattern (CP) that transmits red light, a first color filter (CF1) that transmits blue light, and a second color filter (CF2) that transmits yellow light, and configured to include dyes having maximum absorption wavelengths of 590 nm and 490 nm in the overcoat layer (OC). In addition, as a comparative example, a display device does not include a color pattern, the color filter layer includes a red color filter, a green color filter, a blue color filter, and a black matrix, and the overcoat layer is configured of a transparent material.

[0247] In addition, in Table 1 below, the efficiency represents the light efficiency of white (W), red (R), green (G), and blue (B), respectively, and the reflection characteristic represents the external light reflectance of the display device. The unit of each value is %.

[0248] Comparative Example Example 1 Example 2 Example 3 Efficiency W 158.7 175.0 175.5 175.6 R 164.5 180.6 150.7 144.0 G 117.4 134.7 152.1 158.1 B 161.5 170.4 170.4 170.4 Reflectance SCI 5.5 85.3 96.3 15.8 2 CIE x 0.29 20.29 10.3 16 0.3 18 CIE y 0.3 10 0.3 14 0.3 3 8 0.3 24

[0249] Referring to Table 1 above, Examples 1 to 3 showed increased white, green, and blue light efficiency, respectively, compared to the comparative example. Furthermore, Example 1 showed reduced external light reflectance compared to the comparative example. Through these results, it was confirmed that the display devices according to the examples can increase light efficiency and reduce external light reflectance in some structures.

[0250] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to the attached drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be implemented in other specific forms without altering the technical spirit or essential characteristics of the present invention. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive.

Claims

1. Substrate; A light-emitting element layer disposed on the substrate and including a pixel defining film that defines a plurality of light-emitting regions and non-light-emitting regions; An encapsulating layer disposed on the light emitting element layer; A touch sensing layer disposed on the above encapsulation layer, the touch sensing layer including a touch connection electrode, a driving electrode, and a color pattern disposed between the touch connection electrode and the driving electrode; A color filter layer disposed on the above touch sensing layer and including a plurality of color filters; and Including an overcoat layer disposed on the above color filter layer, The above color pattern overlaps one of the plurality of light-emitting areas and the non-light-emitting area, A display device in which the plurality of color filters do not overlap with the light-emitting area overlapping with the color pattern.

2. In paragraph 1, The above plurality of light-emitting regions include a first light-emitting region emitting a first light, a second light-emitting region emitting a second light, and a third light-emitting region emitting a third light, A display device in which the color pattern overlaps one light-emitting area selected from the first light-emitting area, the second light-emitting area, and the third light-emitting area.

3. In paragraph 2, A display device in which the plurality of color filters are respectively arranged to overlap different light-emitting areas among the light-emitting areas remaining except for the light-emitting area overlapping the color pattern.

4. In paragraph 3, A display device wherein the first light is red light, the second light is blue light, and the third light is green light.

5. In paragraph 4, A display device in which the color pattern overlaps the third light-emitting area and does not overlap the first light-emitting area and the second light-emitting area.

6. In paragraph 5, A display device in which the color pattern includes a color material that transmits the third light and absorbs the first light and the second light.

7. In paragraph 4, The above plurality of color filters include a first color filter that transmits the first light and a second color filter that transmits the second light, A display device wherein the first color filter overlaps the first light-emitting area, and the second color filter overlaps the second light-emitting area.

8. In paragraph 1, A display device in which the color pattern and the plurality of color filters overlap each other in the non-luminous area.

9. In paragraph 1, A display device wherein the color pattern has a refractive index lower than the refractive indices of the plurality of color filters.

10. In paragraph 9, A display device in which the color pattern has a refractive index that is 0.05 or more lower than the refractive index of the plurality of color filters.

11. In paragraph 1, A display device wherein the overcoat layer comprises at least one of a dye having a maximum absorption wavelength of 490 nm or a dye having a maximum absorption wavelength of 590 nm.

12. In paragraph 11, The above dye is an indicator device that absorbs light in the wavelength range of 480 nm to 500 nm or 580 nm to 600 nm.

13. In paragraph 1, A display device in which the side of the color pattern is arranged at a distance of 2 um or less outward from the side of the pixel defining film and at a distance of 1 um or less inward from the side of the pixel defining film.

14. Substrate; A light-emitting element layer disposed on the substrate and including a pixel defining film that defines a plurality of light-emitting regions and non-light-emitting regions; An encapsulating layer disposed on the light emitting element layer; A touch sensing layer disposed on the above encapsulation layer, the touch sensing layer including a touch connection electrode, a driving electrode, and a color pattern disposed between the touch connection electrode and the driving electrode; A color filter layer disposed on the above touch sensing layer and including a first color filter and a second color filter; and Including an overcoat layer disposed on the above color filter layer, The above color pattern overlaps one of the plurality of light-emitting areas and the non-light-emitting area, A display device wherein the first color filter does not overlap with the light-emitting area overlapping the color pattern, and the second color filter overlaps with the light-emitting area overlapping the color pattern.

15. In paragraph 14, The above plurality of light-emitting regions include a first light-emitting region emitting a first red light, a second light-emitting region emitting a second blue light, and a third light-emitting region emitting a third green light, A display device wherein the color pattern overlaps the first light-emitting area, the first color filter overlaps the second light-emitting area, and the second color filter overlaps the first light-emitting area and the third light-emitting area.

16. In paragraph 15, A display device in which the color pattern is a red color filter that transmits the first light, the first color filter is a blue color filter that transmits the second light, and the second color filter is a yellow color filter that transmits the first light and the third light.

17. In paragraph 16, A display device in which the color pattern, the first color filter, and the second color filter overlap each other in the non-emitting area.

18. In paragraph 16, A display device wherein the color pattern does not overlap with the second light-emitting area and the third light-emitting area, the first color filter does not overlap with the first light-emitting area and the third light-emitting area, and the second color filter does not overlap with the second light-emitting area.

19. Substrate; A light-emitting element layer disposed on the substrate and including a pixel defining film that defines a plurality of light-emitting regions and non-light-emitting regions; An encapsulating layer disposed on the light emitting element layer; A touch sensing layer disposed on the above encapsulation layer and including a plurality of touch electrodes; A color filter layer disposed on the above touch sensing layer and including a plurality of color filters; and Including an overcoat layer disposed on the above color filter layer, The above plurality of color filters include a first color filter and a second color filter, The above first color filter overlaps one of the plurality of light-emitting areas, A display device in which the second color filter is arranged to overlap two or more of the remaining light-emitting areas among the plurality of light-emitting areas.

20. In paragraph 19, The above plurality of light-emitting regions include a first light-emitting region emitting a first red light, a second light-emitting region emitting a second blue light, and a third light-emitting region emitting a third green light, A display device in which the first color filter is a blue color filter that transmits the second blue light, and the second color filter is a yellow color filter that transmits the first red light and the third green light.

21. In paragraph 20, A display device wherein the first color filter overlaps the second light-emitting area and the non-light-emitting area, and the second color filter overlaps the first light-emitting area, the third light-emitting area, and the non-light-emitting area.

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