Display panel and manufacturing method therefor, and display apparatus

Abstract

The present application provides a display panel and a manufacturing method therefor, and a display apparatus. The display panel comprises a substrate, a pixel defining layer, light-emitting devices, auxiliary electrodes and isolation structures. First grooves are formed in the side of the pixel defining layer away from the substrate, and the spacing between each first groove and each pixel opening forms a protruding structure. Each light-emitting device comprises a first electrode, a light-emitting layer and a second electrode which are sequentially stacked on the substrate. Each auxiliary electrode is at least partially located in the corresponding first groove and connected to the corresponding second electrode. Each isolation structure is located in the corresponding first groove in a corresponding pixel defining block and arranged on the side of the corresponding auxiliary electrode away from the pixel defining layer, and a second groove is formed between the side surface of the isolation structure and the side surface of the corresponding first groove. Normal display of the display panel can be ensured, and the problem of insufficient packaging of the isolation structure can be solved.

Description

Display panel and manufacturing method thereof, and display device Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of display technology, and in particular to a display panel and a manufacturing method thereof, and a display device. Background Art

[0002] As we all know, the mainstream method for mass production of traditional display panels is vacuum evaporation, and the fine metal mask (FMM) evaporation process is the mainstream process of vacuum evaporation technology. However, due to the influence of FMM materials, the FMM evaporation process still has many limitations in practical applications. Therefore, the display panel field has begun to adopt a non-FMM process, that is, using a photolithography process to replace the FMM evaporation process, and forming pixels in the display panel by exposure and etching to improve pixel density and aperture ratio. At present, the non-FMM process mainly interrupts the pixel light-emitting material by designing an isolation structure. Therefore, unlike the common electrode formed in the traditional process, in the non-FMM process, the electrode located on the side of the light-emitting material layer away from the substrate will also be interrupted, thereby affecting normal display. In addition, due to the structural characteristics of the side wall of the isolation structure in the display panel due to the lateral etching (undercut) area, it is also easy to cause the encapsulation layer to be insufficiently encapsulated at the recessed side wall of the isolation structure, resulting in encapsulation failure. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In response to the shortcomings of the related art, the present application proposes a display panel and a manufacturing method thereof, as well as a display device, to solve the problems of electrode electrical connection failure and display panel packaging failure in the related art non-FMM process.

[0004] The embodiment of the present application provides a display panel, comprising a substrate, a pixel defining layer, a light-emitting device, an auxiliary electrode, and an isolation structure. The pixel defining layer is located on the substrate and is used to define a plurality of pixel openings and a pixel defining block located outside the pixel openings on the substrate. The pixel defining block is provided with a first groove on a side facing away from the substrate, with a convex structure formed between the first groove and the pixel openings. The light-emitting device comprises a first electrode, a light-emitting layer, and a second electrode stacked sequentially on the substrate. The auxiliary electrode is at least partially located within the first groove and interconnected with the second electrode. The isolation structure is located within the first groove on the pixel defining block and is provided on a side of the auxiliary electrode facing away from the pixel defining layer. The side surfaces of the isolation structure and the side surfaces of the first groove together form a second groove.

[0005] The display panel provided in this embodiment has a first groove provided on the pixel defining block, and a raised structure is formed in the spacing area between the pixel opening and the first groove. A hook-shaped structure with a height difference is formed between the raised structure and the first groove. On the one hand, the first groove can promote the flow of the encapsulation layer material into the second groove, thereby filling the gap between the isolation structure and the second electrode in the area where the isolation structure is laterally etched, thereby improving the insufficient encapsulation. On the other hand, the raised structure can promote the accumulation of the encapsulation layer material in the second groove of the isolation structure, making it easier for the encapsulation layer material to fill the lateral gap, thereby compensating for the defect of insufficient encapsulation on the side of the isolation structure caused by lateral etching in the related art. Furthermore, the second groove can also promote smooth overlap between the second electrode and the auxiliary electrode.

[0006] In addition, the hook-shaped structure formed between the protrusion structure and the first groove can fix the position of the packaging layer material, avoid displacement of the packaging layer along the extension direction of the substrate, thereby causing packaging failure, and reduce the risk of peeling of the packaging layer.

[0007] In one embodiment, the second electrode and the auxiliary electrode are at least partially located on a side of the protruding structure facing away from the substrate, and the auxiliary electrode is at least partially covered by the second electrode;

[0008] Alternatively, the second electrode and the auxiliary electrode are both at least partially located in the second groove, and the auxiliary electrode is at least partially covered by the second electrode.

[0009] In one embodiment, the display panel further comprises an encapsulation layer, which is located on a side of the light-emitting device away from the substrate and at least partially fills the second groove, and the encapsulation layer located in the second groove at least partially covers the second electrode and / or the auxiliary electrode.

[0010] In one embodiment, a side of each of the isolation structures away from the substrate is at least partially covered by two light-emitting materials, and the light-emitting materials are at least partially covered by a second electrode material.

[0011] In one embodiment, an orthographic projection of the first electrode on the substrate at least partially overlaps with an orthographic projection of the protrusion structure on the substrate.

[0012] In one embodiment, the isolation structure has a first end face facing the pixel defining layer and a second end face facing away from the pixel defining layer, wherein the projection area of ​​the orthographic projection of the first end face on the substrate is smaller than the projection area of ​​the orthographic projection of the first groove on the substrate; the projection area of ​​the orthographic projection of the second end face on the substrate is larger than the projection area of ​​the orthographic projection of the first groove on the substrate; and the distance between the side surface of the protruding structure away from the isolation structure and the center of the isolation structure is larger than the distance between the edge of the second end face and the center of the isolation structure.

[0013] In one embodiment, the isolation structure includes a first isolation portion and a second isolation portion stacked in sequence on the substrate, the orthographic projection of the first isolation portion on the substrate is located within the orthographic projection of the second isolation portion on the substrate and the projection area of ​​the orthographic projection of the first isolation portion on the substrate is smaller than the projection area of ​​the orthographic projection of the second isolation portion on the substrate, the side of the first isolation portion and the side of the first groove jointly form the second groove, the projection area of ​​the orthographic projection of the second isolation portion on the substrate is larger than the projection area of ​​the orthographic projection of the first groove on the substrate; along the direction perpendicular to the substrate, there is a height difference between the side of the second electrode facing away from the substrate and the side of the second isolation portion close to the substrate.

[0014] In one embodiment, the height difference between the intervals is greater than or equal to the width of the second groove in a direction parallel to the substrate.

[0015] In one embodiment, along a direction parallel to the substrate, a width difference between an edge of the first isolation portion and an edge of the second isolation portion extending in the same direction is less than 1 μm.

[0016] In one embodiment, along a direction parallel to the substrate, the width of the light-emitting layer in each of the light-emitting devices is smaller than the width of the second electrode, and the second electrode at least partially covers the light-emitting layer.

[0017] In one embodiment, the orthographic projection of the light-emitting layer on the substrate is located within the orthographic projection of the second electrode on the substrate.

[0018] In one embodiment, along a direction perpendicular to the substrate, an angle between a side surface of the first groove and a bottom surface of the first groove is α, and 120°≤α≤150°.

[0019] In one embodiment, the distance between the auxiliary electrode and the substrate at a side close to the substrate is greater than or equal to the distance between the first electrode and the substrate at a side away from the substrate.

[0020] The present application also provides a method for preparing a display panel, comprising:

[0021] A substrate comprising a pixel area and a non-pixel area located outside the pixel area, wherein a first electrode is formed in the pixel area of ​​the substrate;

[0022] forming a pixel defining layer on the substrate, wherein the pixel defining layer in the pixel area covers the first electrode, and a first groove is formed on a side of the pixel defining layer in the non-pixel area facing away from the substrate;

[0023] forming an auxiliary electrode on the pixel defining layer located in the non-pixel area;

[0024] forming a first isolation layer and a second isolation layer in sequence on the pixel defining layer;

[0025] The second isolation layer, the first isolation layer, and the pixel defining layer are patterned in sequence to form a pixel opening located in the pixel area and at least partially exposing the first electrode, and at least partially exposing the auxiliary electrode in the first groove; a protrusion structure is formed between the pixel opening and the first groove; and a side surface of the first isolation layer and a side surface of at least one of the first grooves jointly form a second groove;

[0026] The light-emitting layer, the second electrode and the encapsulation layer are sequentially covered on the side of the first electrode facing away from the substrate. The light-emitting layer and the second electrode are at least partially located in the pixel opening. The second electrode is in contact with the auxiliary electrode. There is a height difference between the second electrode and the second isolation layer in a direction perpendicular to the substrate. The encapsulation layer at least partially fills the second groove.

[0027] In one embodiment, along a direction parallel to the substrate, the light-emitting layer includes a first light-emitting layer, a second light-emitting layer, or a third light-emitting layer arranged in an array, the pixel opening is used to accommodate the first light-emitting layer, the second light-emitting layer, or the third light-emitting layer, and the first light-emitting layer, the second light-emitting layer, and the third light-emitting layer emit light of different colors.

[0028] In one embodiment, the projection area of ​​the orthographic projection of the auxiliary electrode on the substrate is larger than the projection area of ​​the orthographic projection of the first groove on the substrate, and the second electrode at least partially covers the auxiliary electrode.

[0029] In one embodiment, forming a pixel defining layer on the substrate, wherein the pixel defining layer located in the pixel area covers the first electrode, and a first groove is formed on a side of the pixel defining layer located in the non-pixel area facing away from the substrate, specifically includes:

[0030] forming a first pixel defining layer in a non-pixel region of the first electrode using a first photomask;

[0031] forming a second pixel defining layer in the pixel region on a side of the first pixel defining layer away from the first electrode through a second photomask, and forming a first groove in the non-pixel region of the second pixel defining layer;

[0032] Alternatively, a pixel defining layer is formed on the substrate through a semi-transparent mask, the pixel defining layer located in the pixel area covers the first electrode, and a first groove is formed on a side of the pixel defining layer located in the non-pixel area away from the substrate.

[0033] The present application also provides a display device, including the display panel as described in the aforementioned embodiment or a display panel prepared by the method for preparing the display panel as described in the aforementioned embodiment.

[0034] Additional aspects and advantages of the present application will be given in part in the following description, which will become apparent from the following description, or will be learned through practice of the present application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the present application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present application.

[0036] FIG1 is a schematic diagram showing a film structure of a display panel in the related art;

[0037] FIG2 is a schematic diagram showing a film structure of a display panel provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0038] FIG3 is a schematic diagram showing a film layer structure of another display panel provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0039] FIG4 is a schematic diagram showing a film layer structure of another display panel provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0040] 5 to 20 are schematic diagrams of the structural film layers and the layout of the panels in each step of the method for preparing two display panels provided in the embodiments of the present application.

[0041] In the figure: 1-substrate; 2-pixel defining layer; 2a-first pixel defining layer; 2b-second pixel defining layer; 21-pixel defining block; 211-first groove; 212-convex structure; 2111-second groove; 201-pixel opening 3-light-emitting device; 31-first electrode; 32-light-emitting layer; 32a-light-emitting material; 321-first light-emitting layer; 322-second light-emitting layer; 323-third light-emitting layer; 33-second electrode; 33a-second electrode material; 4-auxiliary electrode; 5-isolation structure; 5a-first end face; 5b-second end face; 51-first isolation part (first isolation layer); 52-second isolation part (second isolation layer); 6-encapsulation layer; PA-pixel area; NPA-non-pixel area. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] Exemplary embodiments will be described in detail herein, with examples illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following description, when referring to the drawings, identical numerals in different figures represent identical or similar elements unless otherwise indicated. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments are not intended to represent all embodiments consistent with the present application. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatus and methods consistent with certain aspects of the present application, as detailed in the appended claims.

[0043] The terms used in this application are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and are not intended to limit this application. As used in this application and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," "the," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term "and / or" as used herein refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0044] It should be understood that when describing the structure of a component, when a layer or a region is referred to as being "on" or "over" another layer or region, it may mean that it is directly on the other layer or region, or that other layers or regions are included between it and the other layer or region. Furthermore, if the component is turned over, the layer or region will be "below" or "beneath" the other layer or region.

[0045] Research has found that, as shown in Figure 1, in related art display panels, using a non-FMM packaging process, the isolation structure 5 is designed to interrupt the light-emitting material to form the light-emitting device 3 (pixel). However, this also causes the second electrode 33 located on the side of the light-emitting layer 32 away from the substrate 1 to be interrupted, preventing normal display. Therefore, an auxiliary electrode 4 is required to electrically connect the second electrode 33 on the side of the light-emitting layer 32 away from the substrate 1. However, in non-FMM processes, the isolation structure 5 typically consists of a body and a roof (i.e., a first isolation portion 51 and a second isolation portion 52) stacked sequentially on the substrate 1. Lateral etching (undercutting) of the first isolation portion 51 of the isolation structure 5 easily forms a recessed area A. Furthermore, the second isolation portion 52 protrudes laterally in the direction of the substrate 1 by a certain width, thus providing a certain barrier to the encapsulation layer 6 covering the substrate 1. This results in a weak area on the side of the first isolation portion 51 of the isolation structure 5, namely the recessed area A created by the encapsulation layer 6, which further leads to cracks. This can also prevent the auxiliary electrode 4 from smoothly overlapping the second electrode 33. Furthermore, if there are weak areas in the encapsulation layer 6 , residual moisture in the subsequent etching process and inkjet printing process (IJP) may enter the light-emitting layer 32 along the boundary of the encapsulation layer 6 , posing a risk of causing the light-emitting device 3 to fail.

[0046] The display panel, its manufacturing method, and the display device provided in this application are intended to solve the above technical problems in the related art.

[0047] The display panel and its manufacturing method, and the display device in the embodiments of the present application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the absence of conflict, the features in the following embodiments can complement or be combined with each other.

[0048] An embodiment of the present application provides a display panel, as shown in FIG2 , comprising a substrate 1, a pixel defining layer 2, a light-emitting device 3, an auxiliary electrode 4, and an isolation structure 5. The pixel defining layer 2 is located on the substrate 1 and is used to define a plurality of pixel openings 201 and a pixel defining block 21 located around the pixel openings 201. A first groove 211 is provided on the side of the pixel defining block 21 facing away from the substrate 1, with a raised structure 212 formed between the first groove 211 and the pixel openings 201. The light-emitting device 3 comprises a first electrode 31, a light-emitting layer 32, and a second electrode 33 stacked sequentially on the substrate 1. The auxiliary electrode 4 is at least partially located within the first groove 211 and is interconnected with the second electrode 33. The isolation structure 5 is located within the first groove 211 of the pixel defining block 21 and is disposed on the side of the auxiliary electrode 4 facing away from the pixel defining layer 2. The side surfaces of the isolation structure 5 and the side surfaces of the first groove 211 together form a second groove 2111.

[0049] The display panel provided in this embodiment has a first groove 211 disposed on the pixel defining block 21, and a raised structure 212 is formed in the spacing region between the pixel opening 201 and the first groove 211. A hook-shaped structure with a height difference is formed between the raised structure 212 and the first groove 211. On the one hand, the first groove 211 can promote the flow of material from the encapsulation layer 6 into the second groove 2111, thereby filling the gap between the isolation structure 5 and the second electrode 33 in the area where the isolation structure 5 is laterally etched, thereby improving insufficient encapsulation. On the other hand, the raised structure 212 can promote the accumulation of material from the encapsulation layer 6 within the second groove 2111 of the isolation structure 5, making it easier for the encapsulation layer 6 material to fill the lateral gap, thereby compensating for the defect of insufficient encapsulation on the side of the isolation structure 5 caused by lateral etching in the related art. Furthermore, the second groove 2111 can also promote smooth overlap between the second electrode 33 and the auxiliary electrode 4.

[0050] In addition, the hook-shaped structure formed between the protrusion structure 212 and the first groove 211 can fix the position of the packaging layer 6, avoid the packaging layer 6 formed by the packaging layer material from being displaced along the extension direction of the substrate 1, thereby causing packaging failure, and reduce the risk of the packaging layer 6 peeling off (peeling).

[0051] It should be noted that the "side" of the isolation structure in this application refers to the surface that intersects the isolation structure and the plane extending from the substrate. For example, when viewed from the direction of the substrate toward the isolation structure, the plane on the side of the isolation structure facing the substrate is the bottom surface, and the surface that intersects with the bottom surface is the side of the isolation structure. From another perspective, the side of the isolation structure can also be understood as the plane extending from the isolation structure along the direction of the substrate toward the isolation structure. Furthermore, the definition of the side mentioned in the following structures is the same as that of the side of the isolation structure and will not be repeated here.

[0052] It should be further explained that the substrate 1 in the present application is an array substrate, and the array substrate includes a base substrate, a pixel driving circuit, a lead structure and a planarization layer. Among them, the base substrate can be a rigid substrate or a flexible substrate, the material of the rigid substrate can be glass or quartz, and the flexible substrate can be a polymer material, such as polyimide (PI), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) or graphite. The pixel driving circuit may include a 3T1C, 5T2C or 7T1C driving circuit formed by multiple thin film transistors and multiple storage capacitors. The lead structure may include data lines and scan lines. Those skilled in the art can design according to actual conditions, and this application is not limited here.

[0053] In some embodiments, the light emitting device 3 may include a red sub-pixel, a green sub-pixel, and a blue sub-pixel, or may include a red sub-pixel, a green sub-pixel, a blue sub-pixel, and a white sub-pixel.

[0054] In some embodiments, the first electrode 31 and the second electrode 33 have opposite electrical properties. In one example, the first electrode 31 is an anode and the second electrode 33 is a cathode. In another example, the first electrode 31 is a cathode and the second electrode 33 is an anode. Either the first electrode 31 or the second electrode 33 is formed by a translucent electrode, and the other of the first electrode 31 or the second electrode 33 is formed by a reflective electrode. When the first electrode 31 is a translucent electrode and the second electrode 33 is a reflective electrode, the display panel is configured to have a bottom emission structure that emits light downward. When the second electrode 33 is a translucent electrode and the first electrode 31 is a reflective electrode, the display panel is configured to have a top emission structure that emits light upward. In this application, the first electrode 31 that is an anode and formed by a reflective electrode and the second electrode 33 that is a cathode and formed by a translucent electrode are taken as examples.

[0055] In some embodiments, the isolation structure 5 is made of a combination of multiple metals or metal nitrides. For example, the isolation structure 5 may be made of Ti (titanium), Al (aluminum), or SiN (silicon nitride).

[0056] In some embodiments, the pixel defining layer 2 is an organic insulating material, which may be PI (polyimide), BCB (benzocyclobutene) and a photoresist material.

[0057] In some embodiments, the auxiliary electrode 4 is made of Mo (molybdenum), Ti (titanium) and ITO (Indium-Tin-Oxide).

[0058] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2 , the second electrode 33 and the auxiliary electrode 4 are at least partially located on a side of the protrusion structure 212 facing away from the substrate 1 , and the auxiliary electrode 4 is at least partially covered by the second electrode 33 .

[0059] In this embodiment, the second electrode 33 and the auxiliary electrode 4 are overlapped on the protruding structure 212, which can prevent the display panel from being unable to display normally due to the second electrode 33 being broken between adjacent light-emitting devices. In addition, when the auxiliary electrode 4 extends to the protruding structure 212, a clamping structure with high sides and low middle can be formed, so that the auxiliary electrode 4 is fixed by the recessed area of ​​the first groove 211, avoiding the displacement of the auxiliary electrode 4 in the horizontal direction, thereby reducing the risk of the auxiliary electrode 4 detaching from the display panel.

[0060] In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3 , the second electrode 33 and the auxiliary electrode 4 are at least partially located in the second groove 2111 , and the auxiliary electrode 4 is at least partially covered by the second electrode 33 .

[0061] In this embodiment, the second electrode 33 and the auxiliary electrode 4 are also overlapped in the second groove 2111, so the second electrode 33 is at least partially located in the second groove 2111. The position of the second electrode 33 can be further fixed by a hook-shaped structure formed between the protruding structure 212 and the first groove 211 to avoid horizontal displacement of the second electrode 33, thereby reducing the risk of the second electrode 33 detaching from the display panel.

[0062] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG3 or FIG4 , the display panel further includes an encapsulation layer 6. The encapsulation layer 6 is located on a side of the light-emitting device 3 away from the substrate 1 and at least partially fills the second groove 2111. The encapsulation layer 6 located in the second groove 2111 at least partially covers the second electrode 33 and / or the auxiliary electrode 4.

[0063] In this embodiment, regardless of whether the second electrode 33 and the auxiliary electrode 4 are located in the second groove 2111, when the encapsulation layer 6 covers the second electrode 33 or the auxiliary electrode 4, the light-emitting device 3 in the display panel can be effectively encapsulated and fixed, thereby avoiding encapsulation failure and improving the yield of the display panel.

[0064] In some embodiments, the encapsulation layer 6 is an organic encapsulation layer, an inorganic encapsulation layer, or a combination thereof. The encapsulation layer 6 may also be a structure formed of multiple layers of encapsulation materials.

[0065] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2 , a side of each isolation structure 5 away from the substrate 1 is at least partially covered by two light-emitting materials 32 a , and the light-emitting material 32 a is at least partially covered by the second electrode material 33 a .

[0066] In this embodiment, since a non-FMM process is adopted, that is, the disconnection between pixels is achieved through the isolation structure 5, the light-emitting material 32a in adjacent pixels of different colors can be formed on the side of each isolation structure 5 facing away from the substrate 1, and since the second electrode 33 is formed by laying a whole layer of second electrode material 33a, the side of the light-emitting material 32a facing away from the isolation structure 5 will be at least partially covered by the second electrode 33.

[0067] In some embodiments, the orthographic projection of the first electrode 31 on the substrate 1 at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the protrusion structure 212 on the substrate 1 .

[0068] The protruding structure 212 in this embodiment can be patterned on the pixel defining layer 2 to expose at least a portion of the first electrode 31 to achieve electrical connection between the light-emitting layer 32 and the first electrode 31. In this embodiment, the entire first electrode 31 is not completely exposed, and part of the pixel defining layer 2 still exists on the side of the first electrode 31 away from the substrate 1 to at least partially cover the four sides of the first electrode 31, thereby fixing the position of the first electrode 31 and reducing the risk of displacement or falling off of the first electrode 31.

[0069] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 2, the isolation structure 5 has a first end face 5a facing the pixel defining layer 2 and a second end face 5b facing away from the pixel defining layer 2, wherein the projection area of ​​the first end face 5a's orthographic projection on the substrate 1 is smaller than the projection area of ​​the first groove 211's orthographic projection on the substrate 1; the distance d1 between the side of the protruding structure 212 away from the isolation structure 5 and the center of the isolation structure 5 is greater than the distance d2 between the edge of the second end face 5b and the center of the isolation structure 5.

[0070] In this embodiment, the second end surface 5b of the isolation structure 5 facing away from the substrate 1 is larger than the groove surface of the first groove 211. This allows the material of the light-emitting layer 32 to be smoothly separated by the isolation structure 5 to form multiple pixels of different colors when the display panel forms the light-emitting layer 32, thereby achieving normal display. By making the first end surface 5a smaller than the groove surface of the first groove 211, a second groove 2111 can be formed in the area of ​​the first groove 211 excluding the first end surface 5a. The second groove 2111 can be used to accommodate and accumulate the material of the second electrode 33 and the encapsulation layer 6, thereby achieving smooth overlap between the second electrode 33 and the auxiliary electrode 4 and fully encapsulating and filling the side of the isolation structure 5 with the material of the encapsulation layer 6, thereby reducing the risk of display panel failure caused by water vapor erosion. Furthermore, part of the orthographic projection of the raised structure 212 on the substrate 1 is not covered by the orthographic projection of the isolation structure 5 on the substrate 1, that is, when viewed along the extension direction of the substrate 1, the raised structure 212 at least partially protrudes from the edge of the isolation structure 5. Then, when forming the second electrode 33 and the encapsulation layer 6, the materials of the second electrode 33 and the encapsulation layer 6 are at least partially not blocked by the isolation structure 5, so that they can smoothly cover the top of the raised structure 212 and accumulate above the raised structure 212 until they enter the second groove 2111, which is conducive to the electrical connection between the second electrode 33 and the auxiliary electrode 4 and the sufficient encapsulation of the encapsulation layer 6.

[0071] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 2, the isolation structure 5 includes a first isolation portion 51 and a second isolation portion 52 stacked in sequence on the substrate 1, the orthographic projection of the first isolation portion 51 on the substrate 1 is located within the orthographic projection of the second isolation portion 52 on the substrate 1 and the projection area of ​​the orthographic projection of the first isolation portion 51 on the substrate 1 is smaller than the projection area of ​​the orthographic projection of the second isolation portion 52 on the substrate 1, the side of the first isolation portion 51 and the side of the first groove 211 jointly form a second groove 2111, and the projection area of ​​the orthographic projection of the second isolation portion 52 on the substrate 1 is larger than the projection area of ​​the orthographic projection of the first groove 211 on the substrate 1; along the direction perpendicular to the substrate 1, there is a height difference Δh between the side of the second electrode 33 facing away from the substrate 1 and the side of the second isolation portion 52 close to the substrate 1.

[0072] In the isolation structure 5 of this embodiment, the width x1 of the first isolation portion 51 is smaller than the width x2 of the second isolation portion 52 along the extension direction of the substrate 1. The second isolation portion 52 forms a roof structure, thereby smoothly separating the light-emitting layer 32 to form multiple pixels. Furthermore, a height difference Δh is provided between the second isolation portion 52 and the second electrode 33, allowing the encapsulation layer 6 to smoothly enter the second groove 2111 and fill the drilled area on the side of the isolation structure 5, thereby improving the structural stability and anti-extrusion capability of the second isolation portion in the isolation structure 5.

[0073] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG2 , the spacing height difference Δh is greater than or equal to the width d3 of the second groove 2111 in a direction parallel to the substrate 1. In this embodiment, when the encapsulation layer 6 is formed on the side of the light-emitting device 3 facing away from the substrate 1, because the spacing height difference Δh is greater than or equal to the width d3 of the second groove 2111, the encapsulation layer 6 can more easily and quickly enter the second groove 2111 during lateral flow, thereby more effectively achieving full filling of the package and avoiding insufficient packaging.

[0074] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2 , along a direction parallel to the substrate 1 , a width difference d4 between an edge of the first isolation portion 51 and an edge of the second isolation portion 52 extending in the same direction is less than 1 μm.

[0075] In this embodiment, the horizontal depth d4 of the side etching of the isolation structure 5 is less than 1 μm to ensure the overall stability of the isolation structure 5. Furthermore, the smaller the horizontal depth of the side etching, the less likely it is that the opening of the second groove 2111 is too large, resulting in insufficient encapsulation of the encapsulation layer 6 on the side of the isolation structure 5. In some embodiments, the horizontal depth d4 of the side etching of the isolation structure 5 can be 0.2 μm, 0.4 μm, 0.6 μm, and 0.8 μm.

[0076] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG3 , along a direction parallel to the substrate 1 , the width x3 of the light-emitting layer 32 in each light-emitting device 3 is smaller than the width x4 of the second electrode 33 , and the second electrode 33 at least partially covers the light-emitting layer 32 . In this embodiment, since the light-emitting layer 32 is smaller than the width of the second electrode 33 , the second electrode 33 can cover the light-emitting layer 32 , thereby protecting the light-emitting layer 32 from moisture erosion, improving the quality of the display panel, and extending its service life.

[0077] Specifically, the orthographic projection of the light-emitting layer 32 on the substrate 1 is located within the orthographic projection of the second electrode 33 on the substrate 1 , so as to achieve the purpose of the second electrode 33 covering the light-emitting layer.

[0078] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4 , along a direction perpendicular to the substrate 1 , an angle α is formed between a side surface of the first groove 211 and a bottom surface of the first groove 211 , and 120°≤α≤150°.

[0079] In this embodiment, the angle α between the side and bottom of the first groove 211 is an obtuse angle. Then, when the second electrode 33 covers the light-emitting layer 32, the side of the protruding structure 212 close to the first groove 211 forms a slope with a smaller slope, which helps the second electrode 33 to continuously cover the light-emitting layer 32 and the auxiliary electrode 4. This can avoid the second electrode 33 from breaking in the middle and causing electrical connection failure due to the large step difference and steep slope between the protruding structure 212 and the first groove 211. In addition, it can also avoid the uneven coverage of the encapsulation layer 6 when covering the second electrode 33, which helps the encapsulation layer 6 to evenly cover and fill the side depressions of the isolation structure 5.

[0080] Exemplarily, the angle α between the side surface of the first groove 211 and the bottom surface of the first groove 211 is 120°, 130°, 140° or 150°.

[0081] In some embodiments, the distance between the auxiliary electrode 4 and the substrate 1 , which is closer to the substrate 1 , is greater than or equal to the distance between the first electrode 31 and the substrate 1 , which is farther from the substrate 1 .

[0082] In this embodiment, there is a certain height difference between the auxiliary electrode 4 and the first electrode 31 to avoid the possibility of crosstalk of electrical signals caused by the auxiliary electrode 4 and the first electrode 31 being too close to each other.

[0083] Based on the same inventive concept, as shown in FIG. 5 to FIG. 20 , the present application further provides a method for manufacturing a display panel, comprising the following steps:

[0084] Step 100: As shown in FIG5 , the substrate 1 includes a pixel area PA and a non-pixel area NPA located outside the pixel area, and a first electrode 31 is formed in the pixel area PA of the substrate;

[0085] Step 200: As shown in FIG6-FIG7 or FIG8-FIG9, a pixel defining layer 2 is formed on a substrate 1. The pixel defining layer 2 in the pixel area PA covers the first electrode 31, and a first groove 211 is formed on a side of the pixel defining layer 2 in the non-pixel area NPA facing away from the substrate 1.

[0086] Step 300: As shown in Figures 10 and 11, an auxiliary electrode 4 is formed on the pixel defining layer 2 located in the non-pixel area NPA; it should be noted that Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of the layout corresponding to the film layer structure schematic diagram of Figure 10, and correspondingly, Figure 10 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the display panel in Figure 11 along the dotted line BB as the section line.

[0087] Step 400: As shown in FIG12 , a first isolation layer 51 and a second isolation layer 52 are sequentially formed on the pixel defining layer 2;

[0088] Step 500: As shown in Figures 13 and 14, the second isolation layer 52, the first isolation layer 51 and the pixel defining layer 2 are patterned in sequence to form a pixel opening 201 located in the pixel area PA and at least partially expose the first electrode 31, and at least partially expose the auxiliary electrode 4 in the first groove 211; a protrusion structure 212 is formed between the pixel opening 201 and the first groove 211; a second groove 2111 is formed between the side surface of the first isolation layer 51 and the side surface of at least one first groove 211; it should be noted that Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of the layout corresponding to the membrane layer structure schematic diagram of Figure 13, and correspondingly, Figure 13 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the display panel in Figure 14 along the dotted line BB as the section line.

[0089] Step 600: As shown in Figures 15 to 18, the light-emitting layer 32, the second electrode 33, and the encapsulation layer 6 are sequentially covered on the side of the first electrode 31 facing away from the substrate 1. The light-emitting layer 32 and the second electrode 33 are at least partially located within the pixel opening 201. The second electrode 33 is in contact with the auxiliary electrode 4. In the direction perpendicular to the substrate 1, there is a height difference between the second electrode 33 and the second isolation layer 52. The encapsulation layer 6 is at least partially filled in the second groove 2111. It should be noted that Figure 16 is a schematic diagram of the layout corresponding to the schematic diagram of the film structure of Figure 15. Correspondingly, Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of a cross-section of the display panel in Figure 16 along the dotted line BB. Similarly, Figure 18 is a schematic diagram of the layout corresponding to the schematic diagram of the film structure of Figure 17. Correspondingly, Figure 17 is a schematic diagram of a cross-section of the display panel in Figure 18 along the dotted line BB.

[0090] The manufacturing method of the display panel provided in this embodiment adopts a non-FMM process, forming a first groove 211 in the non-pixel area NPA where the isolation structure 5 is located, and forming a protruding structure 212 at the interval between the isolation structure 5 and the light-emitting device 3. A hook-shaped structure with different heights is formed between the first groove 211 and the protruding structure 212, so that the encapsulation layer 6 can form a sufficient and complete encapsulation in the weak area on the side of the isolation structure 5 to improve the encapsulation deficiency. At the same time, the protruding structure 212 can promote the accumulation of the encapsulation layer material in the second groove 2111 of the isolation structure 5, making it easier for the encapsulation layer material to fill the lateral gap, making up for the defect of insufficient encapsulation on the side of the isolation structure 5 caused by lateral etching in the related art. Furthermore, the second groove 2111 can also promote the smooth overlap between the second electrode 33 and the auxiliary electrode 4. In addition, the hook-shaped structure formed between the protruding structure 212 and the first groove 211 can fix the position of the encapsulation layer 6, prevent the encapsulation layer 6 from shifting along the extension direction of the substrate 1, thereby causing encapsulation failure, and reduce the risk of the encapsulation layer 6 peeling off (peeling).

[0091] It should be noted that the above embodiments use the packaging process of a single light-emitting device 3 as an example. In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 19 and 20, for a display panel having multiple light-emitting devices 3, the light-emitting layer 32 includes a first light-emitting layer 321, a second light-emitting layer 322, or a third light-emitting layer 323 arranged in an array along a direction parallel to the substrate 1. The pixel opening 201 is used to accommodate the first light-emitting layer 321, the second light-emitting layer 322, or the third light-emitting layer 323. The first light-emitting layer 321, the second light-emitting layer 322, and the third light-emitting layer 323 emit light of different colors. It should be noted that Figure 20 is a schematic diagram of the layout corresponding to the film layer structure schematic diagram of Figure 19. Correspondingly, Figure 19 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display panel in Figure 20, with the dashed line BB as the section line.

[0092] For example, the first light-emitting layer 321 in the present application emits blue light, the second light-emitting layer 322 emits green light, and the third light-emitting layer 323 emits red light.

[0093] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 19 , the orthographic projection area of ​​the auxiliary electrode 4 on the substrate 1 is larger than the orthographic projection area of ​​the first groove 211 on the substrate 1 , and the second electrode 33 at least partially covers the auxiliary electrode 4 .

[0094] When the width of the auxiliary electrode 4 on the substrate 1 in this embodiment is greater than the width of the first groove 211 on the substrate 1, the auxiliary electrode 4 forms a structure with high sides and low middle. The position of the auxiliary electrode 4 can be fixed by the recessed area of ​​the first groove 211, thereby fixing the position of the auxiliary electrode 4 so as to achieve a fixed position overlap with the second electrode 33, and is not prone to displacement or detachment.

[0095] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG6 and FIG7 , step 200 specifically includes the following steps:

[0096] As shown in FIG6 , a first pixel defining layer 2 a is formed in the non-pixel area NPA of the first electrode 31 through a first photomask;

[0097] As shown in FIG7 , a second pixel defining layer 2b is formed in the pixel area PA on the side of the first pixel defining layer 2a facing away from the first electrode 31 using a second photomask. A first groove 211 is also formed in the non-pixel area NPA of the second pixel defining layer 2b. In this embodiment, the first groove 211 is formed in the pixel defining layer 2 using a conventional photomask in a photolithography process. Specifically, the first pixel defining layer 2a and the second pixel defining layer 2b are formed through two patterning processes, with the first groove 211 formed in the second pixel defining layer 2b.

[0098] In some other embodiments, as shown in FIG8 and FIG9 , step 200 specifically includes the following steps:

[0099] A pixel defining layer 2 is formed on a substrate 1 using a semi-transparent mask. The pixel defining layer 2 in the pixel area PA covers the first electrode 31, and a first groove 211 is formed on the side of the pixel defining layer 2 in the non-pixel area NPA facing away from the substrate 1. In this embodiment, the pixel defining layer 2 having the first groove 211 is formed using a semi-transparent mask, allowing for a single patterning process, simplifying the process steps and improving production efficiency.

[0100] The present application also provides a display device, including the display panel provided in the aforementioned embodiment or the display panel prepared by the method for preparing the display panel provided in the aforementioned embodiment. The display device has the advantages of the display panel or the method for preparing the display panel in the aforementioned embodiment, which will not be described in detail here.

[0101] It should be noted that the display device can be any device that displays images, whether in motion (e.g., video) or fixed (e.g., still images), and whether text or images. More specifically, it is contemplated that embodiments may be implemented in or associated with a variety of electronic devices, such as (but not limited to) mobile phones, wireless devices, personal data assistants (PDAs), handheld or portable computers, GPS receivers / navigators, cameras, MP4 video players, camcorders, game consoles, watches, clocks, calculators, television monitors, flat-panel displays, computer monitors, automotive displays (e.g., speedometer displays, etc.), navigation systems, cockpit controls and / or displays, displays of camera views (e.g., displays of rearview cameras in vehicles), electronic photographs, electronic billboards or signs, projectors, architectural structures, packaging, and aesthetic structures (e.g., displays of images of a piece of jewelry), etc.

[0102] The above embodiments of the present application can complement each other if no conflict occurs.

[0103] It should be noted that in the accompanying drawings, the sizes of layers and regions may be exaggerated for clarity of illustration. It will also be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on" another element or layer, it may be directly on the other element, or there may be an intermediate layer. In addition, it will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "under" another element or layer, it may be directly under the other element, or there may be more than one intermediate layer or element. In addition, it will also be understood that when a layer or element is referred to as being "between" two layers or elements, it may be the only layer between the two layers or elements, or there may also be more than one intermediate layer or element. Similar reference numerals throughout the text indicate similar elements.

[0104] The terms "center", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", etc., indicating the orientation or position relationship, are based on the orientation or position relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operate in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be understood as a limitation on this application.

[0105] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of the technical features being referred to. Thus, a feature specified as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of such features. Throughout this application, unless otherwise specified, "plurality" means two or more.

[0106] Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate other embodiments of the present application after considering the specification and practicing the disclosure disclosed herein. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the present application that follow the general principles of the present application and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The description and examples are to be considered merely as exemplary, and the true scope and spirit of the present application are indicated by the claims.

[0107] It should be understood that the present application is not limited to the exact structure described above and shown in the drawings, and that various modifications and changes may be made without departing from the scope thereof. The scope of the present application is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display panel, characterized in that, Comprising: A substrate; A pixel defining layer, located on the substrate, for defining a plurality of pixel openings and pixel defining blocks located around the pixel openings on the substrate; A first groove is provided on a side of the pixel defining block facing away from the substrate, and a raised structure is formed at an interval between the first groove and the pixel opening; A light emitting device, including a first electrode, a light emitting layer, and a second electrode stacked in sequence on the substrate; An auxiliary electrode, at least partially located in the first groove and connected to the second electrode; An isolation structure, located in the first groove on the pixel defining block and disposed on a side of the auxiliary electrode facing away from the pixel defining layer, and a second groove is formed jointly between a side surface of the isolation structure and a side surface of the first groove.

2. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein Both the second electrode and the auxiliary electrode are at least partially located on a side of the raised structure facing away from the substrate, and at least part of the auxiliary electrode is covered by the second electrode; Or, both the second electrode and the auxiliary electrode are at least partially located in the second groove, and at least part of the auxiliary electrode is covered by the second electrode.

3. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein Further comprising a packaging layer; The packaging layer is located on a side of the light emitting device away from the substrate and at least partially fills the second groove, and at least part of the packaging layer located in the second groove covers the second electrode and / or the auxiliary electrode.

4. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein A side of each isolation structure facing away from the substrate is at least partially covered by two light emitting materials, and the light emitting materials are at least partially covered by a second electrode material.

5. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein A positive projection of the first electrode on the substrate at least partially coincides with a positive projection of the raised structure on the substrate.

6. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein The isolation structure has a first end face facing the pixel defining layer and a second end face facing away from the pixel defining layer, wherein, A projected area of the first end face on the substrate is smaller than a projected area of the first groove on the substrate; a projected area of the second end face on the substrate is larger than a projected area of the first groove on the substrate; A distance between a side of the raised structure away from the isolation structure and the center of the isolation structure is greater than a distance between an edge of the second end face and the center of the isolation structure.

7. The display panel according to claim 6, wherein The isolation structure includes a first isolation portion and a second isolation portion stacked in sequence on the substrate, a positive projection of the first isolation portion on the substrate is located within a positive projection of the second isolation portion on the substrate and a projected area of the positive projection of the first isolation portion on the substrate is smaller than a projected area of the positive projection of the second isolation portion on the substrate, a second groove is formed jointly between a side surface of the first isolation portion and a side surface of the first groove, and a projected area of the positive projection of the second isolation portion on the substrate is larger than a projected area of the first groove on the substrate; In a direction perpendicular to the substrate, there is a spacing height difference between a side of the second electrode facing away from the substrate and a side of the second isolation portion close to the substrate.

8. The display panel according to claim 7, wherein The spacing height difference is greater than or equal to a width of the second groove in a direction parallel to the substrate.

9. The display panel according to claim 7, wherein, In a direction parallel to the substrate, the width difference between the edge of the first isolation part and the edge of the second isolation part extending in the same direction is less than 1 μm.

10. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, In a direction parallel to the substrate, the width of the light-emitting layer in each of the light-emitting devices is less than the width of the second electrode, and the second electrode at least partially covers the light-emitting layer.

11. The display panel according to claim 10, wherein The orthographic projection of the light-emitting layer on the substrate is located within the orthographic projection of the second electrode on the substrate.

12. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein In a direction perpendicular to the substrate, the included angle between the side surface and the bottom surface of the first groove is α, and 120° ≤ α ≤ 150°.

13. The display panel according to claim 1, wherein The distance between the side of the auxiliary electrode close to the substrate and the substrate is greater than or equal to the distance between the side of the first electrode far from the substrate and the substrate.

14. A method for manufacturing a display panel, characterized in that, Comprising: A substrate, including a pixel region and a non-pixel region located on the periphery of the pixel region, and a first electrode is formed in the pixel region of the substrate; A pixel defining layer is formed on the substrate. The pixel defining layer located in the pixel region covers the first electrode, and a first groove is formed on the side of the pixel defining layer located in the non-pixel region facing away from the substrate; An auxiliary electrode is formed on the pixel defining layer located in the non-pixel region; A first isolation layer and a second isolation layer are sequentially formed on the pixel defining layer; The second isolation layer, the first isolation layer, and the pixel defining layer are sequentially patterned to form a pixel opening in the pixel region and at least partially expose the first electrode, and at least partially expose the auxiliary electrode in the first groove; A raised structure is formed at an interval between the pixel opening and the first groove; The side surface of the first isolation layer and the side surface of at least one of the first grooves together form the second groove; A light-emitting layer, a second electrode, and a packaging layer are sequentially covered on the side of the first electrode facing away from the substrate. The light-emitting layer and the second electrode are both at least partially located in the pixel opening. The second electrode is in contact with the auxiliary electrode. In a direction perpendicular to the substrate, there is a spacing height difference between the second electrode and the second isolation layer, and the packaging layer at least partially fills the second groove.

15. The manufacturing method of the display panel according to claim 14, characterized in that, In a direction parallel to the substrate, the light-emitting layer includes a first light-emitting layer, a second light-emitting layer, or a third light-emitting layer arranged in an array. The pixel opening is used to accommodate the first light-emitting layer, the second light-emitting layer, or the third light-emitting layer. The light emitted by the first light-emitting layer, the second light-emitting layer, and the third light-emitting layer has different colors.

16. The method for manufacturing a display panel according to claim 14, wherein, The projected area of the orthographic projection of the auxiliary electrode on the substrate is greater than the projected area of the orthographic projection of the first groove on the substrate, and the second electrode at least partially covers the auxiliary electrode.

17. The method for manufacturing a display panel according to claim 14, wherein, Forming a pixel defining layer on the substrate, where the pixel defining layer located in the pixel region covers the first electrode, and a first groove is formed on the side of the pixel defining layer located in the non-pixel region facing away from the substrate specifically includes: Forming a first pixel defining layer in the non-pixel region of the first electrode through a first photomask; A second pixel defining layer is formed in the pixel region on the side of the first pixel defining layer facing away from the first electrode through a second photomask, and a first groove is formed in the non-pixel region of the second pixel defining layer; Alternatively, a pixel defining layer is formed on the substrate through a semi-transmissive photomask. The pixel defining layer in the pixel region covers the first electrode, and a first groove is formed on the side of the pixel defining layer in the non-pixel region facing away from the substrate.

18. A display device, characterized in that, Comprising: The display panel according to any one of claims 1 to 13, or the display panel prepared by the method for preparing the display panel according to any one of claims 14 to 17.

Images