Display device

Abstract

This display device comprises a display element layer, and the display element layer comprises: an anode electrode and a cathode electrode which are spaced apart in a first direction on a substrate; an overcoat pattern which partially covers the anode electrode and the cathode electrode; a light emitting element which is disposed on the overcoat pattern and includes a first element electrode and a second element electrode; an anode transparent electrode which connects the first element electrode and the anode electrode on the overcoat pattern; and a cathode transparent electrode which connects the second element electrode and the cathode electrode, wherein the cathode transparent electrode includes a line electrode extending in a second direction and a branch electrode extending in the first direction from the line electrode, the first and second element electrodes are spaced apart from each other by a first distance in the first direction, and the anode transparent electrode and the branch electrode are spaced apart from each other in the first direction by a second distance that is equal to or greater than the first distance.

Description

display device

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

[0002] Display devices are becoming increasingly important with the advancement of multimedia. In response, the use of display devices such as liquid crystal displays (LCDs), organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), and inorganic light-emitting diodes (ILDs) is increasing. In particular, research is actively underway on micro LEDs, which offer faster response times and higher brightness compared to conventional LEDs.

[0003] As display devices become increasingly smaller, the size of pixels (or sub-pixels) and the spacing between pixels (or sub-pixels) in display devices (or display panels) are gradually decreasing. Consequently, a method for preventing short-circuiting caused by residue that may occur during the display device manufacturing process may be necessary.

[0004] The above-described content is only intended to help understand the background technology for the technical ideas of the present invention, and therefore cannot be understood as content corresponding to prior art known to those skilled in the art in the technical field of the present invention.

[0005] Embodiments of the present invention provide a pixel having improved reliability and a display device including the same. For example, the display device can reduce the risk of defects by preventing short-circuiting due to residue.

[0006] A display device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a display element layer disposed on a substrate, the display element layer including an anode electrode and a cathode electrode disposed spaced apart from each other in a first direction on the substrate, an overcoat pattern partially covering the anode electrode and the cathode electrode, a light-emitting element disposed on the overcoat pattern and including a first element electrode and a second element electrode, wherein the first element electrode and the second element electrode are adjacent to the anode electrode and the cathode electrode, respectively, an anode transparent electrode disposed on the overcoat pattern and electrically connecting the first element electrode and the anode electrode to each other, and a cathode transparent electrode disposed on the overcoat pattern and electrically connecting the second element electrode and the cathode electrode to each other, the cathode transparent electrode including a line electrode extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction and a branch electrode extending from the line electrode in the first direction, and the first element electrode and the second element electrode are arranged to be adjacent to each other in the first direction. The anode transparent electrode and the branch electrode are spaced apart from each other by a first distance in the first direction, and the second distance is greater than or equal to the first distance.

[0007] The above branch electrode may overlap the above overcoat pattern on a plane, and the above line electrode may not overlap the above overcoat pattern on a plane.

[0008] The perimeter of the overcoat pattern includes a first edge overlapping the anode transparent electrode on a plane, a second edge overlapping the branch electrode on a plane, a third edge connecting the first and second edges, and a fourth edge connecting the first and second edges but being opposite to the third edge, wherein at least one of the third edge and the fourth edge can have a length longer than the first distance.

[0009] The display element layer may further include a residue pattern disposed adjacent to at least one of the third edge and the fourth edge.

[0010] The above residue pattern may have a length longer than the first distance.

[0011] The above overcoat pattern includes a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion sequentially arranged in the second direction, and each of the first to third portions extends in the first direction on a plane and overlaps the anode electrode and the cathode electrode, wherein the first portion overlaps the anode transparent electrode without overlapping the branch electrode on the plane, the second portion overlaps both the branch electrode and the anode transparent electrode on the plane, and the third portion overlaps the branch electrode without overlapping the anode transparent electrode on the plane.

[0012] The first element electrode and the second element electrode are spaced apart from each other in the first direction, the anode transparent electrode can overlap at least a portion of the first element electrode on a plane, and the cathode transparent electrode can overlap at least a portion of the second element electrode on a plane.

[0013] The above anode transparent electrode can overlap the first element electrode by at least 1 / 3 of the area of ​​the first element electrode on a plane.

[0014] The anode electrode has a first width in the second direction, the anode transparent electrode has a second width in the second direction, and the second width may be narrower than the first width.

[0015] The anode transparent electrode includes a first portion and a second portion, the first portion extending in the first direction, and the second portion extending from the first portion in a diagonal direction intersecting the first and second directions so as to overlap at least a portion of the first element electrode.

[0016] The above cathode transparent electrode can overlap the second element electrode by at least 1 / 3 of the area of ​​the second element electrode on a plane.

[0017] The above line electrode may be spaced apart from the above overcoat pattern in the first direction.

[0018] The branch electrode includes a first portion and a second portion, the first portion extending in the first direction, and the second portion extending from the first portion in a diagonal direction intersecting the first and second directions so as to overlap at least a portion of the second element electrode.

[0019] The anode transparent electrode and the cathode transparent electrode may be disposed in the same layer, and the anode transparent electrode and the cathode transparent electrode may include the same transparent conductive material.

[0020] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a display device includes a display element layer disposed on a substrate, the display element layer including anode electrodes disposed on the substrate, a cathode electrode disposed on the substrate and spaced apart from the anode electrodes in a first direction, overcoat patterns partially covering the anode electrodes and the cathode electrodes, light-emitting elements disposed on the overcoat patterns, each of which includes a first element electrode and a second element electrode, anode transparent electrodes disposed on the overcoat patterns and electrically connecting the first element electrodes of the light-emitting elements to the anode electrodes, and cathode transparent electrodes disposed on the overcoat patterns and electrically connecting the second element electrodes of the light-emitting elements to the cathode electrode, the cathode transparent electrode including a line electrode extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction and branch electrodes extending in the first direction from the line electrode, and the first element electrode and the second element electrode of any one of the light-emitting elements are connected to each other by the first They are spaced apart from each other by a first distance in the first direction, and one of the anode transparent electrodes and one of the branch electrodes are spaced apart from each other by a second distance greater than or equal to the first distance in the first direction.

[0021] The light-emitting elements include a first light-emitting element and a second light-emitting element, the anode electrodes include a first anode electrode and a second anode electrode, and the anode transparent electrodes include a first anode transparent electrode electrically connecting the first element electrode of the first light-emitting element to the first anode electrode and a second anode transparent electrode electrically connecting the first element electrode of the second light-emitting element to the second anode electrode, wherein the first anode transparent electrode and the second anode transparent electrode may be spaced apart from each other by a third distance in the second direction, and the first anode electrode and the second anode electrode may be spaced apart from each other by a fourth distance in the second direction that is smaller than the third distance.

[0022] Each of the first element electrodes of the first and second light-emitting elements has a first width in the second direction, and the third distance may be less than or equal to the sum of half of the first width and the fourth distance.

[0023] The above branch electrode may overlap the above overcoat pattern on a plane, and the above line electrode may not overlap the above overcoat pattern on a plane.

[0024] The perimeter of the overcoat pattern includes a first edge overlapping the anode transparent electrode on a plane, a second edge overlapping the branch electrode on a plane, a third edge connecting between the first and second edges, and a fourth edge connecting between the first and second edges but being opposite to the third edge, wherein at least one of the third edge and the fourth edge can have a length longer than the first distance.

[0025] The display element layer may further include a residue pattern disposed adjacent to at least one of the third edge and the fourth edge.

[0026] According to embodiments of the present invention, a display device having improved reliability is provided.

[0027] The effects according to the embodiments are not limited to those exemplified above, and more diverse effects are included in the present specification.

[0028] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a display device.

[0029] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of one of the sub-pixels of FIG. 1.

[0030] FIG. 3 is a plan view showing an embodiment of the display panel of FIG. 1.

[0031] Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of the display panel of Fig. 3.

[0032] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of the display panel of FIG. 3.

[0033] FIG. 6 is a plan view showing an embodiment of one of the pixels of FIG. 3.

[0034] Figure 7 is an enlarged view showing part A of Figure 6.

[0035] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II' of Fig. 6.

[0036] FIGS. 9 to 11 are plan views showing other embodiments of one of the pixels of FIG. 1.

[0037] Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing an embodiment of a method for manufacturing the display device of Fig. 1.

[0038] Fig. 13 is a plan view of the display device in the operation of Fig. 12.

[0039] Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II' of Fig. 13.

[0040] Fig. 15 is a plan view of the display device in the operation of Fig. 12.

[0041] Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II' of Fig. 15.

[0042] Fig. 17 is a plan view of the display device in the operation of Fig. 12.

[0043] Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II' of Fig. 17.

[0044] Fig. 19 is a plan view of the display device in the operation of Fig. 12.

[0045] Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II' of Fig. 19.

[0046] Figure 21 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a display system.

[0047] Figures 22 to 25 are perspective views showing application examples of the display system of Figure 21.

[0048] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that in the following description, only the portions necessary for understanding the operation of the present invention will be described, and the description of other portions will be omitted so as not to obscure the gist of the present invention. Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein and may be embodied in other forms. However, the embodiments described herein are provided to explain the technical idea of ​​the present invention in sufficient detail to enable those of ordinary skill in the art to easily practice it.

[0049] Throughout the specification, when a part is said to be "connected" to another part, this includes not only the case where it is "directly connected" but also the case where it is "indirectly connected" with another element in between. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to limit the present invention. Throughout the specification, when a part is said to "comprise" a certain element, this does not mean that other elements are excluded, but that other elements can be further included, unless specifically stated to the contrary. "At least one of X, Y, and Z", and "at least one selected from the group consisting of X, Y, and Z" can be interpreted as one X, one Y, one Z, or any combination of two or more of X, Y, and Z (e.g., XYZ, XYY, YZ, ZZ). Here, "and / or" includes any combination of one or more of the configurations.

[0050] Here, terms such as "first" and "second" may be used to describe various components, but these components are not limited to these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one component from another. Accordingly, a "first component" may refer to a "second component" within the scope disclosed herein.

[0051] Spatially relative terms, such as "below," "above," and the like, may be used for descriptive purposes to describe one element or feature in relation to other elements or features as depicted in the drawings. Spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations during use, operation, and / or manufacturing, in addition to the orientation depicted in the drawings. For example, if a device depicted in the drawings is turned over, elements depicted as being positioned "below" other elements or features are now positioned "above" the other elements or features. Thus, in one embodiment, the term "below" may encompass both above and below. Furthermore, the device may be oriented in other orientations (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other directions), and the spatially relative terms used herein are to be interpreted accordingly.

[0052] Various embodiments are described with reference to drawings schematically illustrating ideal embodiments. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the shapes may vary, for example, depending on tolerances and / or manufacturing techniques. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed herein should not be construed as limited to the specific shapes depicted, but rather to encompass, for example, variations in shapes resulting from manufacturing processes. Likewise, the shapes depicted in the drawings may not depict the actual shapes of areas of the device, and the present embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0053] As used herein, "about," "approximately," or "substantially" includes the stated value and may mean within an acceptable range of deviation from the stated value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, taking into account the measurement and the errors associated with measuring a particular quantity (i.e., limitations of the measurement system). For example, "approximately" may mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ± 30%, 20%, 10%, or 5% of the stated value.

[0054] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a display device.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 1, the display device (DD) may include a display panel (DP), a gate driver (120), a data driver (130), a voltage generator (140), and a controller (150).

[0056] A display panel (DP) may include sub-pixels (SP). The sub-pixels (SP) may be connected to a gate driver (120) via first to m-th gate lines (GL1 to GLm). The sub-pixels (SP) may be connected to a data driver (130) via first to n-th data lines (DL1 to DLn).

[0057] The sub-pixels (SP) can generate light of two or more colors. For example, each of the sub-pixels (SP) can generate light of red, green, blue, cyan, magenta, yellow, etc.

[0058] Two or more sub-pixels among the sub-pixels (SP) can constitute one pixel (PXL). For example, the pixel (PXL) can include three sub-pixels as illustrated in FIG. 1. In this way, the pixel (PXL) can emit light of various colors and various luminances depending on the combination of light emitted from the sub-pixels included therein.

[0059] The gate driver (120) may be connected to the sub-pixels (SP) arranged in the row direction through the first to m-th gate lines (GL1 to GLm). The gate driver (120) may output gate signals to the first to m-th gate lines (GL1 to GLm) in response to a gate control signal (GCS). In embodiments, the gate control signal (GCS) may include a start signal indicating the start of each frame, a horizontal synchronization signal, and the like.

[0060] The gate driver (120) may be arranged on one side of the display panel (DP). However, embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the gate driver (120) may be divided into two or more drivers that are physically and / or logically separated, and such drivers may be arranged on one side of the display panel (DP) and the other side of the display panel (DP) opposite to the one side. In this way, the gate driver (120) may be arranged around the display panel (DP) in various forms according to embodiments.

[0061] The data driver (130) can be connected to the sub-pixels (SP) arranged in the column direction through the first to nth data lines (DL1 to DLn). The data driver (130) can receive image data (DATA) and a data control signal (DCS) from the controller (150). The data driver (130) can operate in response to the data control signal (DCS). In embodiments, the data control signal (DCS) can include a source start signal, a source shift clock, a source output enable signal, etc.

[0062] The data driver (130) can receive voltages from the voltage generator (140). The data driver (130) can use the received voltages to apply data signals having grayscale voltages corresponding to image data (DATA) to the first to n-th data lines (DL1 to DLn). When a gate signal is applied to each of the first to m-th gate lines (GL1 to GLm), data signals corresponding to the image data (DATA) can be applied to the data lines (DL1 to DLn). Accordingly, the sub-pixels (SP) can generate light corresponding to the data signals, and the display panel (DP) can display an image.

[0063] In embodiments, the gate driver (120) and data driver (130) may include complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) circuit elements.

[0064] The voltage generator (140) can operate in response to a voltage control signal (VCS) from the controller (150). The voltage generator (140) can be configured to generate a plurality of voltages and provide the generated voltages to components of the display device (DD), such as the gate driver (120), the data driver (130), and the controller (150). The voltage generator (140) can generate voltages by receiving an input voltage from outside the display device (DD) and regulating the received voltage.

[0065] A voltage generator (140) can generate a first power voltage and a second power voltage. The generated first and second power voltages can be provided to the sub-pixels (SP) through power lines (PL). In other embodiments, at least one of the first and second power voltages can be provided from outside the display device (DD).

[0066] In addition, the voltage generator (140) can provide various voltages and / or signals. For example, the voltage generator (140) can provide one or more initialization voltages applied to the sub-pixels (SP). For example, during a sensing operation for sensing electrical characteristics of transistors and / or light-emitting elements of the sub-pixels (SP), a predetermined reference voltage can be applied to the first to n-th data lines (DL1 to DLn), and the voltage generator (140) can generate the reference voltage and transmit it to the data driver (130). For example, during a display operation for displaying an image on the display panel (DP), common pixel control signals can be applied to the sub-pixels (SP), and the voltage generator (140) can generate the pixel control signals. In embodiments, the voltage generator (140) can provide pixel control signals to the sub-pixels (SP) through the pixel control lines (PXCL). Although FIG. 1 illustrates that the pixel control lines (PXCL) are connected between the voltage generator (140) and the display panel (DP), embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the pixel control lines (PXCL) may be connected between the gate driver (120) and the display panel (DP). In this case, pixel control signals may be transmitted from the voltage generator (140) to the pixel control lines (PXCL) through the gate driver (120).

[0067] The controller (150) can control all operations of the display device (DD). The controller (150) can receive input image data (IMG) and a corresponding control signal (CTRL) from the outside. In response to the control signal (CTRL), the controller (150) can provide a gate control signal (GCS), a data control signal (DCS), and a voltage control signal (VCS).

[0068] The controller (150) can convert input image data (IMG) to be suitable for a display device (DD) or a display panel (DP) and output image data (DATA). In embodiments, the controller (150) can output image data (DATA) by aligning the input image data (IMG) to be suitable for sub-pixels (SP) in a row unit.

[0069] Two or more components of the data driver (130), the voltage generator (140), and the controller (150) may be mounted on a single integrated circuit. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the data driver (130), the voltage generator (140), and the controller (150) may be included in a driver integrated circuit (DIC). In this case, the data driver (130), the voltage generator (140), and the controller (150) may be functionally separate components within a single driver integrated circuit (DIC). In other embodiments, at least one of the data driver (130), the voltage generator (140), and the controller (150) may be provided as a separate component from the driver integrated circuit (DIC).

[0070] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of one of the sub-pixels of FIG. 1.

[0071] In FIG. 2, sub-pixels (SPij) arranged in the i-th row (i is an integer greater than or equal to 1 and less than or equal to m) and the j-th column (j is an integer greater than or equal to 1 and less than or equal to n) among the sub-pixels (SP) of FIG. 1 are exemplarily illustrated.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 2, a sub-pixel (SPij) may include a sub-pixel circuit (SPC) and a light-emitting element (LD).

[0073] A light emitting element (LD) may be connected between a first power supply voltage node (VDDN) and a second power supply voltage node (VSSN). The first power supply voltage node (VDDN) may be connected to one of the power supply lines (PL) of FIG. 1 and may receive a first power supply voltage. The second power supply voltage node (VSSN) may be connected to another of the power supply lines (PL) of FIG. 1 and may receive a second power supply voltage. The first power supply voltage may have a higher voltage level than the second power supply voltage.

[0074] A light emitting element (LD) may be connected between an anode electrode (AE) and a cathode electrode (CE). The anode electrode (AE) may be connected to a first power voltage node (VDDN) through a sub-pixel circuit (SPC). For example, the anode electrode (AE) may be connected to the first power voltage node (VDDN) through one or more transistors included in the sub-pixel circuit (SPC). The cathode electrode (CE) may be connected to a second power voltage node (VSSN). The light emitting element (LD) may be configured to emit light according to a current flowing from the anode electrode (AE) to the cathode electrode (CE).

[0075] The sub-pixel circuit (SPC) may be connected to the i-th gate line (GLi) among the first to m-th gate lines (GL1 to GLm) of FIG. 1 and to the j-th data line (DLj) among the first to n-th data lines (DL1 to DLn) of FIG. 1. In response to a gate signal received through the i-th gate line (GLi), the sub-pixel circuit (SPC) may control the light-emitting element (LD) to emit light according to a data signal received through the j-th data line (DLj). In embodiments, the sub-pixel circuit (SPC) may be further connected to the pixel control lines (PXCL) of FIG. 1. In this case, the sub-pixel circuit (SPC) may further control the light-emitting element (LD) in response to pixel control signals received through the pixel control lines (PXCL).

[0076] For these operations, a sub-pixel circuit (SPC) may include circuit elements, such as transistors and one or more capacitors.

[0077] The transistors of the sub-pixel circuit (SPC) may include P-type transistors and / or N-type transistors. In embodiments, the transistors of the sub-pixel circuit (SPC) may include MOSFETs (Metal Oxide Silicon Field Effect Transistors). In embodiments, the transistors of the sub-pixel circuit (SPC) may include an amorphous silicon semiconductor, a monocrystalline silicon semiconductor, a polycrystalline silicon semiconductor, an oxide semiconductor, or the like.

[0078] FIG. 3 is a plan view showing an embodiment of the display panel of FIG. 1.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 3, a display panel (DP) may include a display area (DA) and a non-display area (NDA). The display panel (DP) displays an image through the display area (DA). The non-display area (NDA) may be positioned around the display area (DA).

[0080] A display panel (DP) may include sub-pixels (SP) in a display area (DA). The sub-pixels (SP) may be arranged along a first direction (DR1) and a second direction (DR2) intersecting the first direction (DR1). For example, the sub-pixels (SP) may be arranged in a matrix form along the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2). As another example, the sub-pixels (SP) may be arranged in a zigzag form along the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2). The arrangement of the sub-pixels (SP) may vary depending on the embodiments. The first direction (DR1) may be a row direction, and the second direction (DR2) may be a column direction.

[0081] Among a plurality of sub-pixels (SP), two or more sub-pixels can constitute one pixel (PXL). In FIG. 3, the pixel (PXL) is illustrated as including three sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3), but embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the pixel (PXL) may include two sub-pixels. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, it is assumed that the pixel (PXL) includes first to third sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3).

[0082] Each of the first to third sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3) can generate light of one of various colors, such as red, green, blue, cyan, magenta, yellow, etc. Hereinafter, for clarity and concise explanation, it is assumed that the first sub-pixel (SP1) is configured to generate red color light, the second sub-pixel (SP2) is configured to generate green color light, and the third sub-pixel (SP3) generates blue color light.

[0083] Each of the first to third sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3) may include at least one light-emitting element configured to generate light. In embodiments, the light-emitting elements of the first to third sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3) may generate light of the same color. For example, the light-emitting elements of the first to third sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3) may generate blue light. In other embodiments, the light-emitting elements of the first to third sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3) may generate light of different colors. For example, the light-emitting elements of the first to third sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3) may generate red light, green light, and blue light, respectively.

[0084] As a display panel (DP), a self-luminous display panel such as a light-emitting diode display panel (LED display panel) that uses micro-scale or nano-scale light-emitting diodes as light-emitting elements, or an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED panel) that uses organic light-emitting diodes as light-emitting elements, can be used.

[0085] Components for controlling sub-pixels (SP) may be arranged in the non-display area (NDA). Wires connected to the sub-pixels (SP), for example, the first to m-th gate lines (GL1 to GLm), the first to n-th data lines (DL1 to DLn), power lines (PL), and pixel control lines (PXCL) of FIG. 1, may be arranged in the non-display area (NDA).

[0086] At least one of the gate driver (120), the data driver (130), the voltage generator (140), and the controller (150) of FIG. 1 may be disposed in a non-display area (NDA) of the display panel (DP). In embodiments, the gate driver (120) may be disposed in the non-display area (NDA). In this case, the data driver (130), the voltage generator (140), and the controller (150) may be implemented as a driver integrated circuit (DIC) of FIG. 1 that is separate from the display panel (DP), and the driver integrated circuit (DIC) may be connected to wires disposed in the non-display area (NDA). In other embodiments, the gate driver (120) may be implemented as a single integrated circuit that is separate from the display panel (DP) together with the data driver (130), the voltage generator (140), and the controller (150).

[0087] In embodiments, the display area (DA) may have various shapes. The display area (DA) may have the shape of a closed loop including straight and / or curved edges. For example, the display area (DA) may have shapes such as a polygon, a circle, a semicircle, or an ellipse.

[0088] In some embodiments, the display panel (DP) may have a flat display surface. In other embodiments, the display panel (DP) may have an at least partially rounded display surface. In some embodiments, the display panel (DP) may be bendable, foldable, or rollable. In such cases, the display panel (DP) and / or the substrate of the display panel (DP) may include materials having flexible properties.

[0089] Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of the display panel of Fig. 3.

[0090] Referring to FIG. 4, the display panel (DP) may include a substrate (SUB), and a pixel circuit layer (PCL), a display element layer (DPL), and a light conversion layer (LFL) that are sequentially laminated in a third direction (DR3) intersecting the first and second directions (DR1, DR2) on the substrate (SUB).

[0091] The substrate (SUB) may be made of an insulating material such as glass or resin. For example, the substrate (SUB) may include a glass substrate. As another example, the substrate (SUB) may include a polyimide (PI) substrate. As yet another example, the substrate (SUB) may include a silicon wafer substrate formed using a semiconductor process.

[0092] In embodiments, the substrate (SUB) may be made of a flexible material that is bendable or foldable, and may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure. For example, the flexible material may include at least one of polystyrene, polyvinyl alcohol, polymethyl methacrylate, polyethersulfone, polyacrylate, polyetherimide, polyethylene naphthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyphenylene sulfide, polyarylate, polyimide, polycarbonate, triacetate cellulose, and cellulose acetate propionate. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0093] A pixel circuit layer (PCL) may be arranged on a substrate (SUB). The pixel circuit layer (PCL) may include insulating layers and semiconductor patterns and conductive patterns arranged between the insulating layers. The conductive patterns of the pixel circuit layer (PCL) may function as circuit elements, wirings, etc.

[0094] The circuit elements of the pixel circuit layer (PCL) may include a sub-pixel circuit (SPC, see FIG. 2) of each of the sub-pixels (SP) of FIG. 3. In other words, the circuit elements of the pixel circuit layer (PCL) may be provided as transistors and one or more capacitors of the sub-pixel circuit (SPC).

[0095] The wiring of the pixel circuit layer (PCL) may include wiring connected to sub-pixels (SP). The wiring of the pixel circuit layer (PCL) may include various signal lines and / or voltage lines necessary to drive the display element layer (DPL).

[0096] A display element layer (DPL) may be arranged on a pixel circuit layer (PCL). The display element layer (DPL) may include light-emitting elements of sub-pixels (SP).

[0097] A light-functional layer (LFL) may be disposed on a display element layer (DPL). The light-functional layer (LFL) may include light-converting patterns having color-converting particles and / or scattering particles. For example, the color-converting particles may include quantum dots. The quantum dots may change the wavelength (or color) of light emitted from the display element layer (DPL). The light-functional layer (LFL) may further include light-scattering patterns having scattering particles. In embodiments, the light-converting patterns and the light-scattering patterns may be omitted.

[0098] The light function layer (LFL) may further include a color filter layer including color filters. The color filter may selectively transmit light of a specific wavelength (or color) through the color filter. In embodiments, the color filter layer may be omitted.

[0099] A window may be provided on a light-functional layer (LFL) to protect an exposed surface (or upper surface) of a display panel (DP). The window may protect the display panel (DP) from external impact. The window may be bonded to the light-functional layer (LFL) via an optically transparent adhesive (or bonding) member. The window may have a multilayer structure selected from a glass substrate, a plastic film, and a plastic substrate. This multilayer structure may be formed through a continuous process or an bonding process using an adhesive layer. All or a portion of the window may be flexible.

[0100] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of the display panel of FIG. 3.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 5, the display panel (DP') may include a substrate (SUB), a pixel circuit layer (PCL), a display element layer (DPL), an input sensing layer (ISL), and a light function layer (LFL). The substrate (SUB), the pixel circuit layer (PCL), the display element layer (DPL), and the light function layer (LFL) may be configured similarly to the substrate (SUB), the pixel circuit layer (PCL), the display element layer (DPL), and the light function layer (LFL) described with reference to FIG. 4, respectively. Hereinafter, redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0102] An input sensing layer (ISL) can detect user input on the upper surface (or display surface) of a display panel (DP'). The input sensing layer (ISL) may include configurations suitable for detecting external objects, such as a user's hand or pen. For example, the input sensing layer (ISL) may include touch electrodes.

[0103] FIG. 6 is a plan view showing an embodiment of one of the pixels of FIG. 3.

[0104] Referring to FIG. 6, a pixel (PXL) may include first to third sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3). The first to third sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3) may be arranged in a second direction (DR2).

[0105] A pixel (PXL) may include first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3), a cathode electrode (CE), overcoat patterns (OCP), first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3), anode transparent electrodes (ITO1), and cathode transparent electrodes (ITO2).

[0106] According to an embodiment, the first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3) may be disposed in the first to third sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3), respectively. The first anode electrode (AE1) may be provided as an anode electrode (AE, see FIG. 2) connected to a sub-pixel circuit (SPC, see FIG. 2) of the first sub-pixel (SP1). The second anode electrode (AE2) may be provided as an anode electrode (AE) connected to a sub-pixel circuit (SPC) of the second sub-pixel (SP2). The third anode electrode (AE3) may be provided as an anode electrode (AE) connected to a sub-pixel circuit (SPC) of the third sub-pixel (SP3).

[0107] The cathode electrode (CE) may be disposed spaced apart from the first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3). The cathode electrode (CE) may be spaced apart from the first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3) in a first direction (DR1). In addition, the cathode electrode (CE) may extend in a second direction (DR2) intersecting the first direction (DR1) and may be used as a common electrode for all of the first to third sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3). Although not shown in FIG. 6, the cathode electrode (CE) may extend in the first and second directions (DR1, DR2) and may also be used as a common electrode for the pixel (PXL) and other pixels adjacent to the pixel (PXL). In this way, the cathode electrode (CE) may have various shapes.

[0108] The overcoat patterns (OCP) may include a first overcoat pattern (OCP1), a second overcoat pattern (OCP2), and a third overcoat pattern (OCP3). The first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3) may be disposed on the first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3) and the cathode electrode (CE). The first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3) and the cathode electrode (CE) may be partially covered by the first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3). In some embodiments, the first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3) may overlap a portion of the cathode electrode (CE) on a plane. The first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3) can overlap the first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3) on a plane, respectively.

[0109] The first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3) may be arranged to correspond to the first to third sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3), respectively. The first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. Each of the first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3) may have an isolated island shape. Each of the first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3) may be arranged sequentially along the second direction (DR2).

[0110] The first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3) may include various materials. Depending on the embodiment, the first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3) may include an organic material. For example, the first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3) may include one or more of the group consisting of acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenol resin, polyamide resin, and polyimide resin. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0111] The first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) may be included in the first to third sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3), respectively. According to an embodiment, the first light-emitting element (LD1) may be electrically connected to the first anode electrode (AE1) and the cathode electrode (CE). The first light-emitting element (LD1) may be provided as a light-emitting element (LD, see FIG. 2) connected to the sub-pixel circuit (SPC) of the first sub-pixel (SP1). The second light-emitting element (LD2) may be electrically connected to the second anode electrode (AE2) and the cathode electrode (CE). The second light-emitting element (LD2) may be provided as a light-emitting element (LD) connected to the sub-pixel circuit (SPC) of the second sub-pixel (SP2). The third light-emitting element (LD3) may be electrically connected to the third anode electrode (AE3) and the cathode electrode (CE). The third light-emitting element (LD3) may be provided as a light-emitting element (LD) connected to the sub-pixel circuit (SPC) of the third sub-pixel (SP3).

[0112] The first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) may be inorganic light-emitting diodes containing inorganic light-emitting materials. However, embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) may be organic light-emitting diodes.

[0113] The first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) may be respectively arranged on the first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3). The first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) may respectively overlap the first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3) on a plane. In addition, the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) may respectively come into contact with the first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3).

[0114] Each of the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) may include a first element electrode (BDE1) and a second element electrode (BDE2). The first element electrode (BDE1) and the second element electrode (BDE2) may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction (DR1). The first element electrode (BDE1) may be arranged adjacent to the anode electrode (AE), and the second element electrode (BDE2) may be arranged adjacent to the cathode electrode (CE).

[0115] In addition, although the first and second element electrodes (BDE1, BDE2) are illustrated in a rectangular shape in FIG. 6, embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, each of the first and second element electrodes (BDE1, BDE2) may have an “L” shape or a “ㄷ” shape. For example, the first and second element electrodes (BDE1, BDE2) may be formed along side surfaces of the corresponding light-emitting element. In this case, the first and second element electrodes (BDE1, BDE2) may not be formed in the internal space surrounded by the side surfaces.

[0116] Anode transparent electrodes (ITO1) and cathode transparent electrodes (ITO2) may be disposed on the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3). The anode transparent electrodes (ITO1) and the cathode transparent electrode (ITO2) may be electrically isolated from each other. The anode transparent electrodes (ITO1) and the cathode transparent electrode (ITO2) may be formed in the same process, but may be physically separated from each other.

[0117] The anode transparent electrodes (ITO1) and the cathode transparent electrode (ITO2) may be arranged in the same layer and may include the same transparent conductive material. For example, the transparent conductive material may include one or more of the group consisting of silver nanowires (AgNW), indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO), antimony zinc oxide (AZO), indium tin zinc oxide (ITZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), tin oxide (SnO2), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and graphene. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0118] The anode transparent electrodes (ITO1) may include a first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1), a second anode transparent electrode (ITO1_2), and a third anode transparent electrode (ITO1_3). The first to third anode transparent electrodes (ITO1_1 to ITO1_3) may extend in a first direction (DR1) and be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (DR2). The first to third anode transparent electrodes (ITO1_1 to ITO1_3) may be disposed in the first to third sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3), respectively. For example, the first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) may be disposed in the first sub-pixel (SP1). The second anode transparent electrode (ITO1_2) may be disposed in the second sub-pixel (SP2). The third anode transparent electrode (ITO1_3) can be placed in the third sub-pixel (SP3).

[0119] The anode transparent electrodes (ITO1) may be disposed on the first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3). In addition, the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1) may have a narrower width in the second direction (DR2) than the first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3). For example, each of the first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3) may have a first width (W1) in the second direction (DR2), and each of the first to third anode transparent electrodes (ITO1_1 to ITO1_3) may have a second width (W2) in the second direction (DR2). Here, the second width (W2) may be narrower than the first width (W1).

[0120] Accordingly, the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the second direction (DR2) by a distance greater than the distance between the anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3). For example, the first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) and the second anode transparent electrode (ITO1_2) may be spaced apart from each other by a third distance (D3) in the second direction (DR2). In addition, the first anode electrode (AE1) and the second anode electrode (AE2) may be spaced apart from each other by a fourth distance (D4) smaller than the third distance (D3) in the second direction (DR2).

[0121] When the first element electrode (BDE1) of each of the first and second light-emitting elements (LD1, LD2) has a third width (W3) in the second direction (DR2), the third distance (D3) may be less than or equal to the sum of half of the third width (W3) and the fourth distance (D4). Although the description above is based on the first and second sub-pixels (SP1, SP2), this may also be applied equally to the second and third sub-pixels (SP2, SP3).

[0122] Each of the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1) can overlap at least a portion of the corresponding first element electrode (BDE1) on a plane. For example, the first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) can overlap at least a portion of the first element electrode (BDE1) of the first light-emitting element (LD1). The first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) can overlap at least 1 / 3 of the area of ​​the first element electrode (BDE1) of the first light-emitting element (LD1). The second anode transparent electrode (ITO1_2) can overlap at least a portion of the first element electrode (BDE1) of the second light-emitting element (LD2). The second anode transparent electrode (ITO1_2) can overlap at least about 1 / 3 of the area of ​​the first element electrode (BDE1) of the second light-emitting element (LD2). The third anode transparent electrode (ITO1_3) may overlap at least a portion of the first element electrode (BDE1) of the third light-emitting element (LD3). The third anode transparent electrode (ITO1_3) may overlap approximately 1 / 3 or more of the area of ​​the first element electrode (BDE1) of the third light-emitting element (LD3).

[0123] Each of the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1) may include a first portion (ITO1_PT1) and a second portion (ITO1_PT2). The first portion (ITO1_PT1) may extend in a first direction (DR1). The second portion (ITO1_PT2) may extend from the first portion (ITO1_PT1) in a diagonal direction intersecting the first and second directions (DR1, DR2). In addition, the second portion (ITO1_PT2) may overlap a portion of the first element electrode (BDE1).

[0124] Each of the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1) can be electrically connected to a first element electrode (BDE1) of a corresponding light-emitting element. For example, the first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) can electrically connect the first element electrode (BDE1) of the first light-emitting element (LD1) and the first anode electrode (AE1). The second anode transparent electrode (ITO1_2) can electrically connect the first element electrode (BDE1) of the second light-emitting element (LD2) and the second anode electrode (AE2). The third anode transparent electrode (ITO1_3) can electrically connect the first element electrode (BDE1) of the third light-emitting element (LD3) and the third anode electrode (AE3).

[0125] The cathode transparent electrode (ITO2) may include a line electrode (ITO2_LN) and branch electrodes (ITO2_BR). The line electrode (ITO2_LN) may extend in the second direction (DR2) and may be arranged across the first to third sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3). In addition, the line electrode (ITO2_LN) may be arranged spaced apart from the overcoat patterns (OCP) in the first direction (DR1) so as not to overlap with the overcoat patterns (OCP).

[0126] The branch electrodes (ITO2_BR) may include a first branch electrode (ITO2_BR1), a second branch electrode (ITO2_BR2), and a third branch electrode (ITO2_BR3). The first to third branch electrodes (ITO2_BR1 to ITO2_BR3) may extend from the line electrode (ITO2_LN) in a first direction (DR1) and may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (DR2). In addition, the first to third branch electrodes (ITO2_BR1 to ITO2_BR3) may be disposed in the first to third sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3), respectively. For example, the first branch electrode (ITO2_BR1) may be disposed in the first sub-pixel (SP1). The second branch electrode (ITO2_BR2) may be disposed in the second sub-pixel (SP2). The third electrode (ITO2_BR3) can be placed in the third sub-pixel (SP3).

[0127] The branch electrodes (ITO2_BR) may overlap at least a portion of each second element electrode (BDE2) on a plane. For example, the first branch electrode (ITO2_BR1) may overlap at least a portion of the second element electrode (BDE2) of the first light-emitting element (LD1). The first branch electrode (ITO2_BR1) may overlap approximately 1 / 3 or more of the area of ​​the second element electrode (BDE2) of the first light-emitting element (LD1). The second branch electrode (ITO2_BR2) may overlap at least a portion of the second element electrode (BDE2) of the second light-emitting element (LD2). The second branch electrode (ITO2_BR2) may overlap approximately 1 / 3 or more of the area of ​​the second element electrode (BDE2) of the second light-emitting element (LD2). The third electrode (ITO2_BR3) may overlap at least a portion of the second element electrode (BDE2) of the third light-emitting element (LD3). The third electrode (ITO2_BR3) may overlap approximately 1 / 3 or more of the area of ​​the third element electrode (BDE3) of the third light-emitting element (LD3).

[0128] Each of the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR) may include a first portion (ITO2_PT1) and a second portion (ITO2_PT2). The first portion (ITO2_PT1) may extend in a first direction (DR1). The second portion (ITO2_PT2) may extend from the first portion (ITO2_PT1) in a diagonal direction intersecting the first and second directions (DR1, DR2). In addition, the second portion (ITO2_PT2) may overlap a portion of the corresponding second element electrode (BDE2).

[0129] Each of the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR) can be electrically connected to a second element electrode (BDE2) of a corresponding light-emitting element. For example, the first branch electrode (ITO2_BR1) can electrically connect the second element electrode (BDE2) and the cathode electrode (CE) of the first light-emitting element (LD1). The second branch electrode (ITO2_BR2) can electrically connect the second element electrode (BDE2) and the cathode electrode (CE) of the second light-emitting element (LD2). The third branch electrode (ITO2_BR3) can electrically connect the second element electrode (BDE2) and the cathode electrode (CE) of the third light-emitting element (LD3).

[0130] According to an embodiment, the first element electrode (BDE1) and the second element electrode (BDE2) of each of the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) may be spaced apart from each other by a first distance (D1) in a first direction (DR1). In this case, the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1) and the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR) may be spaced apart from each other by a second distance (D2) that is greater than or equal to the first distance (D1) in the first direction (DR1). Accordingly, during the formation process of the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1) and the cathode transparent electrode (ITO2), the length of the residue pattern (PRP) formed along the periphery of each overcoat pattern (OCP) may increase.

[0131] Figure 7 is an enlarged view showing part A of Figure 6.

[0132] For convenience of explanation below, the first sub-pixel (SP1) is described with reference to FIG. 7, but the same explanation can be applied to other sub-pixels (SP).

[0133] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the first sub-pixel (SP1) may include a first overcoat pattern (OCP1), a first light-emitting element (LD1), a first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1), and a first branch electrode (ITO2_BR1) of a cathode transparent electrode (ITO2). Hereinafter, any description overlapping with the description made with reference to FIG. 6 will be omitted.

[0134] The first element electrode (BDE1) and the second element electrode (BDE2) of the first light-emitting element (LD1) may be spaced apart from each other by a first distance (D1) in the first direction (DR1). In addition, the first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) and the first branch electrode (ITO2_BR1) may be spaced apart from each other by a second distance (D2) that is greater than or equal to the first distance (D1) in the first direction (DR1).

[0135] The positions of the first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) and the first branch electrode (ITO2_BR1) with respect to the second direction (DR2) may be different from each other. The first overcoat pattern (OCP1) may include a first portion (OCP_P1), a second portion (OCP_P2), and a third portion (OCP_P3) which are sequentially arranged in the second direction (DR2). The first portion (OCP_P1) may overlap the first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) without overlapping the first branch electrode (ITO2_BR1). The second portion (OCP_P2) may overlap both the first branch electrode (ITO2_BR1) and the first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1). The third portion (OCP_P3) can be overlapped with the first branch electrode (ITO2_BR1) without overlapping with the first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1). In this way, the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1) and the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR) can be arranged in a zigzag manner along the second direction (DR2).

[0136] Each of the first to third portions (OCP_P1 to OCP_P3) may extend in the first direction (DR1) and overlap the first anode electrode (AE1) and the cathode electrode (CE).

[0137] The first overcoat pattern (OCP1) may include first to fourth edges (EG1 to EG4) along the perimeter of the first overcoat pattern (OCP1). The first edge (EG1) may overlap the first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1), and the second edge (EG2) may overlap the first branch electrode (ITO2_BR1). The third edge (EG3) may connect the first and second edges (EG1, EG2). In addition, the fourth edge (EG4) may connect the first and second edges (EG1, EG2), but may be opposite to the third edge (EG3). The third edge (EG3) or the fourth edge (EG4) may have a length longer than the first distance (D1) between the first element electrode (BDE1) and the second element electrode (BDE2) of the first light-emitting element (LD1).

[0138] Additionally, a residue pattern (PRP) may be arranged adjacent to the third edge (EG3) or the fourth edge (EG4). For example, during the manufacturing process, when forming the anode transparent electrode (ITO1) and the cathode transparent electrode (ITO2), the first overcoat pattern (OCP1) and the first light-emitting element (LD1) may have a higher step height than the surrounding area. Due to this step height, some residue may remain along the periphery of the first overcoat pattern (OCP1), forming a residue pattern (PRP). This residue pattern (PRP) may be conductive, and if the residue pattern (PRP) is arranged between two components that require to be electrically blocked, the components may be unintentionally electrically connected. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) and the first branch electrode (ITO2_BR1) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other more than the first element electrode (BDE1) and the second element electrode (BDE2) of the first light-emitting element (LD1). In this case, the residue pattern (PRP) may be formed to have a length longer than the first distance (D1) between the first element electrode (BDE1) and the second element electrode (BDE2). In this way, as the residue pattern (PRP) is formed long, the first element electrode (BDE1) and the second element electrode (BDE2) can be prevented from being short-circuited.

[0139] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II' of Fig. 6.

[0140] FIG. 8, like FIG. 7, is described based on the first sub-pixel (SP1) for convenience of explanation, but can be equally applied to other sub-pixels (SP).

[0141] Referring to FIG. 8, a pixel circuit layer (PCL), a display element layer (DPL), and a light function layer (LFL) can be sequentially arranged on a substrate (SUB).

[0142] A pixel circuit layer (PCL) may include insulating layers, semiconductor patterns, and conductive patterns stacked on a substrate (SUB). The insulating layers may include a buffer layer (BFL), one or more interlayer insulating layers (ILD), and one or more passivation layers (PSV1, PSV2). The semiconductor patterns and conductive patterns may be positioned between the insulating layers. The conductive patterns may include at least one material selected from the group consisting of copper (Cu), molybdenum (Mo), tungsten (W), aluminum neodymium (AlNd), titanium (Ti), aluminum (Al), and silver (Ag).

[0143] As described with reference to FIG. 2, each of the first to third sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3) may include a sub-pixel circuit (SPC, see FIG. 2) including transistors and one or more capacitors. Semiconductor patterns and conductive patterns of the pixel circuit layer (PCL) may function as transistors and capacitors of the sub-pixel circuit (SPC). In addition, the conductive patterns of the pixel circuit layer (PCL) may further function as wirings, for example, the first to m-th gate lines (GL1 to GLm), the first to n-th data lines (DL1 to DLn), the power lines (PL), and the pixel control lines (PXCL) of FIG. 1.

[0144] A buffer layer (BFL) may be disposed on a substrate (SUB). The buffer layer (BFL) may prevent impurities from diffusing into circuit elements and wirings included in a pixel circuit layer (PCL). The buffer layer (BFL) may include an inorganic insulating layer including an inorganic material. For example, the buffer layer (BFL) may include at least one of a metal oxide such as silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon oxynitride (SiOxNy), and aluminum oxide (AlOx). The buffer layer (BFL) may be provided as a single layer or multiple layers. When the buffer layer (BFL) is provided as multiple layers, each layer may be formed of the same material or different materials.

[0145] A first transistor (T_SP1) may be placed on a buffer layer (BFL). The first transistor (T_SP1) may be any one of the transistors of a sub-pixel circuit (SPC) included in the first sub-pixel (SP1).

[0146] A first transistor (T_SP1) may include a semiconductor pattern (SCP), a gate electrode (GE), a first terminal (ET1), and a second terminal (ET2). The first terminal (ET1) may be either a source electrode or a drain electrode, and the second terminal (ET2) may be the other of the source electrode and the drain electrode. For example, the first terminal (ET1) may be a source electrode, and the second terminal (ET2) may be a drain electrode.

[0147] A semiconductor pattern (SCP) may be arranged on a buffer layer (BFL). The semiconductor pattern (SCP) may include a first contact region contacting a first terminal (ET1) and a second contact region contacting a second terminal (ET2). An area between the first contact region and the second contact region may be a channel region. The channel region may overlap with a gate electrode (GE) of the first transistor (T_SP1).

[0148] The semiconductor pattern (SCP) may include at least one of various types of semiconductors, for example, at least one of an amorphous silicon semiconductor, a monocrystalline silicon semiconductor, a polycrystalline silicon semiconductor, a low temperature poly silicon (LTPS) semiconductor, and an oxide semiconductor.

[0149] Interlayer insulating layers (ILDs) sequentially stacked on a semiconductor pattern (SCP) may be arranged. The interlayer insulating layers (ILDs) may be inorganic insulating layers including an inorganic material. For example, each of the interlayer insulating layers (ILDs) may include at least one of a metal oxide such as silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon oxynitride (SiOxNy), and aluminum oxide (AlOx). However, the interlayer insulating layers (ILDs) are not limited thereto. For example, at least one of the interlayer insulating layers (ILDs) may include an organic insulating layer including an organic material.

[0150] Interlayer insulating layers (ILDs) can electrically isolate conductive patterns and / or semiconductor patterns disposed between the interlayer insulating layers (ILDs). For example, the interlayer insulating layers (ILDs) can include a gate insulating layer (GI) disposed on a semiconductor pattern (SCP). The gate insulating layer (GI) can be disposed between the semiconductor pattern (SCP) and the gate electrode (GE) such that the gate electrode (GE) is spaced apart from the semiconductor pattern (SCP). The gate insulating layer (GI) can be provided over the entire surface of the semiconductor pattern (SCP) and the buffer layer (BFL) to cover the semiconductor pattern (SCP) and the buffer layer (BFL). As the number of layers required for forming the conductive patterns and / or semiconductor patterns increases, the number of interlayer insulating layers (ILDs) can increase.

[0151] A gate electrode (GE) may be disposed on a gate insulating layer (GI). The gate electrode (GE) may overlap a channel region of a semiconductor pattern (SCP). The gate electrode (GE) may be provided as a single layer including at least one material selected from the group consisting of copper (Cu), molybdenum (Mo), tungsten (W), aluminum neodymium (AlNd), titanium (Ti), aluminum (Al), and silver (Ag). The gate electrode (GE) may be provided as a multilayer including at least one material selected from the group consisting of molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), and silver (Ag), which are low-resistance materials.

[0152] First and second terminals (ET1, ET2) may be arranged on interlayer insulating layers (ILD). The first and second terminals (ET1, ET2) may contact a semiconductor pattern (SCP) through contact holes penetrating the interlayer insulating layers (ILD). The first and second terminals (ET1, ET2) may contact first and second contact areas of the semiconductor pattern (SCP), respectively. Each of the first and second terminals (ET1, ET2) may include at least one material selected from the group consisting of copper (Cu), molybdenum (Mo), tungsten (W), aluminum neodymium (AlNd), titanium (Ti), aluminum (Al), and silver (Ag).

[0153] Although the first and second terminals (ET1, ET2) are illustrated as separate electrodes electrically connected to the semiconductor pattern (SCP), embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the first terminal (ET1) may be a first contact region adjacent to one side of a channel region of the semiconductor pattern (SCP), and the second terminal (ET2) may be a second contact region adjacent to the other side of the channel region. In this case, the first terminal (ET1) may be electrically connected to the light emitting element (LD) via a connecting means, such as a bridge electrode, disposed on at least one of the interlayer insulating layers (ILD).

[0154] In the embodiment, the first transistor (T_SP1) is described as a transistor having a top gate structure, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the first transistor (T_SP1) may be a transistor having a bottom gate structure. In addition, the structure of the first transistor (T_SP1) may be changed in various ways.

[0155] A first passivation layer (PSV1) may be disposed on the first transistor (T_SP1). The first passivation layer (PSV1) may also be referred to as a protective layer or a via layer. The first passivation layer (PSV1) protects components disposed thereunder and may provide a flat upper surface.

[0156] A connection pattern (CP) may be arranged on a first passivation layer (PSV1). The connection pattern (CP) may penetrate the first passivation layer (PSV1) and be connected to a first terminal (ET1) of a first transistor (T_SP1). The connection pattern (CP) may include at least one material selected from the group consisting of copper (Cu), molybdenum (Mo), tungsten (W), aluminum neodymium (AlNd), titanium (Ti), aluminum (Al), and silver (Ag).

[0157] A second passivation layer (PSV2) may be disposed on the connection pattern (CP) and the first passivation layer (PSV1). The second passivation layer (PSV2) may protect components disposed thereunder and provide a flat upper surface.

[0158] Each of the first and second passivation layers (PSV1, PSV2) may include an inorganic insulating layer including an inorganic material and / or an organic insulating layer including an organic material. For example, the inorganic insulating layer may include at least one of a metal oxide such as silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxynitride (SiOxNy), and aluminum oxide (AlOx). For example, the organic insulating layer may include at least one of an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenol resin, a polyamide resin, a polyimide resin, an unsaturated polyester resin, a polyphenylene ether resin, a polyphenylene sulfide resin, and a benzocyclobutene resin.

[0159] The first and second passivation layers (PSV1, PSV2) may comprise the same material as one of the interlayer insulating layers (ILD), but embodiments are not limited thereto. Each of the first and second passivation layers (PSV1, PSV2) may be provided as a single layer, but may also be provided as multiple layers.

[0160] A display element layer (DPL) may be disposed on the second passivation layer (PSV2). The display element layer (DPL) may include a first anode electrode (AE1), a cathode electrode (CE), first and second reflective electrodes (RFE1, RFE2), a first light-emitting element (LD1), a first overcoat pattern (OCP1), a first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1), a cathode transparent electrode (ITO2), and a capping layer (CPL).

[0161] The first anode electrode (AE1) and the cathode electrode (CE) may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction (DR1). The first anode electrode (AE1) may be electrically connected to the first transistor (T_SP1) through a contact portion penetrating a portion of the second passivation layer (PSV2). The cathode electrode (CE) may have a more extended shape than the first anode electrode (AE1) and may cover a relatively wide area.

[0162] A first reflective electrode (RFE1) may be disposed on a first anode electrode (AE1). In addition, the first reflective electrode (RFE1) may be disposed to surround the first anode electrode (AE1). A second reflective electrode (RFE2) may be disposed on a cathode electrode (CE). In addition, the second reflective electrode (RFE2) may be disposed to surround the cathode electrode (CE).

[0163] The first and second reflective electrodes (RFE1, RFE2) may include conductive materials suitable for reflecting light. Accordingly, the light emission efficiency of the first light-emitting element (LD1) may be improved. The first and second reflective electrodes (RFE1, RFE2) may include the same reflective conductive material. For example, the first and second reflective electrodes (RFE1, RFE2) may include at least one of aluminum (Al), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), titanium (Ti), and an alloy of two or more materials selected therefrom. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0164] The first overcoat pattern (OCP1) may be disposed adjacent to the first and second reflective electrodes (RFE1, RFE2) on the second passivation layer (PSV2). The first overcoat pattern (OCP1) may be disposed to partially cover the first anode electrode (AE1) and the cathode electrode (CE). The first overcoat pattern (OCP1) may fix the first light-emitting element (LD1) so as not to move. In addition, the first overcoat pattern (OCP1) may protect components disposed thereunder from foreign substances such as dust, moisture, etc. For example, the first overcoat pattern (OCP1) may include at least one of an inorganic insulating layer and an organic insulating layer. For example, the first overcoat pattern (OCP1) may include epoxy, but embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0165] A first light-emitting element (LD1) may be disposed on a first overcoat pattern (OCP1). The first light-emitting element (LD1) may include first and second element electrodes (BDE1, BDE2) that are disposed to face each other while facing in the same direction (for example, in a direction opposite to the third direction (DR1)). The first and second element electrodes (BDE1, BDE2) may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction (DR1). For example, the first and second element electrodes (BDE1, BDE2) may be spaced apart from each other by a first distance (D1) in the first direction (DR1).

[0166] The first element electrode (BDE1) may be arranged in contact with the side surfaces of the first light-emitting element (LD1) and the lower surface of the first light-emitting element (LD1). The first element electrode (BDE1) may be arranged on the first overcoat pattern (OCP1), and may be arranged between the first light-emitting element (LD1) and the first overcoat pattern (OCP1).

[0167] The first element electrode (BDE1) may be electrically connected to a first semiconductor layer (not shown) included in the first light-emitting element (LD1). For example, the first semiconductor layer may include at least one p-type semiconductor layer. For example, the first semiconductor layer may include at least one semiconductor material selected from the group consisting of gallium nitride (GaN), aluminum gallium nitride (AlGaN), indium gallium nitride (InGaN), aluminum nitride (AlN), and indium nitride (InN), and may be a p-type semiconductor layer doped with a first conductive dopant (or p-type dopant) such as magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn), calcium (Ca), strontium (Sr), barium (Ba), or the like. However, the material constituting the first semiconductor layer is not limited thereto, and various other materials may constituting the first semiconductor layer.

[0168] The second element electrode (BDE2) may be arranged in contact with the side surfaces of the first light-emitting element (LD1) and the lower surface of the first light-emitting element (LD1). The second element electrode (BDE2) may be arranged on the first overcoat pattern (OCP1), and may be arranged between the first light-emitting element (LD1) and the first overcoat pattern (OCP1).

[0169] The second element electrode (BDE2) may be connected to a second semiconductor layer (not shown). For example, the second semiconductor layer may include at least one n-type semiconductor layer. For example, the second semiconductor layer may include any one of a semiconductor material selected from gallium nitride (GaN), aluminum gallium nitride (AlGaN), indium gallium nitride (InGaN), aluminum nitride (AlN), and indium nitride (InN), and may be an n-type semiconductor layer doped with a first conductive dopant (or n-type dopant), such as silicon (Si), germanium (Ge), or tin (Sn). However, the material constituting the second semiconductor layer is not limited thereto, and various other materials may also constitute the second semiconductor layer.

[0170] The first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) can be electrically connected to the first reflective electrode (RFE1) and the first element electrode (BDE1). Accordingly, the first element electrode (BDE1) can be electrically connected to the first anode electrode (AE1) via the first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) and the first reflective electrode (RFE1).

[0171] The first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) may be disposed on an exposed portion of the first element electrode (BDE1) of the first light-emitting element (LD1), an exposed portion of the first overcoat pattern (OCP1), and an exposed portion of the first reflective electrode (RFE1). In addition, the first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) may be disposed to overlap a portion of the first element electrode (BDE1) on a plane.

[0172] The cathode transparent electrode (ITO2) can be electrically connected to the second reflective electrode (RFE2) and the second element electrode (BDE2). Accordingly, the second element electrode (BDE2) can be electrically connected to the cathode electrode (CE) through the cathode transparent electrode (ITO2) and the second reflective electrode (RFE2).

[0173] The cathode transparent electrode (ITO2) may be disposed on an exposed portion of the second element electrode (BDE2) of the first light-emitting element (LD1), an exposed portion of the first overcoat pattern (OCP1), and an exposed portion of the second reflective electrode (RFE2). In addition, the cathode transparent electrode (ITO2) (e.g., the first branch electrode (ITO2_BR1), see FIG. 7) may be disposed to overlap a portion of the second element electrode (BDE2) on a plane.

[0174] According to an embodiment, the first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) and the cathode transparent electrode (ITO2) may be configured to be substantially transparent or translucent to satisfy a predetermined light transmittance. The first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) and the cathode transparent electrode (ITO2) may be disposed on the same display element layer (DPL) and may include the same transparent conductive material. For example, the first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) and the cathode transparent electrode (ITO2) may include at least one of various transparent conductive materials such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO), indium tin zinc oxide (ITZO), etc. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0175] In embodiments, as the first light-emitting element (LD1) is disposed on the first overcoat pattern (OCP1), the first overcoat pattern (OCP1) and the first light-emitting element (LD1) may have a higher step height than the surrounding area. For example, there may be a step height of about 7 μm. Therefore, when photoresist (PR) is applied and exposed during the formation of the first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) and the cathode transparent electrode (ITO2), some residue may remain along the periphery of the first overcoat pattern (OCP1). A residue pattern (PRP, see FIG. 7) may be formed by this residue. In particular, as the gap between the first and second light-emitting elements (LD1, LD2) becomes narrower, the distance between at least one of the first and second anode electrodes (AE1, AE2) and the cathode electrode (CE), or between the first and second anode electrodes (AE1, AE2) can become closer.

[0176] Accordingly, a short circuit due to the residue pattern (PRP) may occur between at least one of the first and second anode electrodes (AE1, AE2) and the cathode electrode (CE), or between the first and second anode electrodes (AE1, AE2). In order to prevent a short circuit due to the residue pattern (PRP), the first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) and the cathode transparent electrode (ITO2) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other more than the first and second element electrodes (BDE1, BDE2). For example, the first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) and the cathode transparent electrode (ITO2) may be spaced apart from each other by a second distance (D2) in the first direction (DR1). Here, the second distance (D2) may be greater than or equal to the first distance (D1).

[0177] In this way, by arranging the first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) and the cathode transparent electrode (ITO2) further apart from the first and second element electrodes (BDE1, BDE2), the length of the residue pattern (PRP) can be maximized, thereby preventing a short circuit caused by the residue pattern (PRP).

[0178] A third passivation layer (PSV3) may be disposed on the first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) and the cathode transparent electrode (ITO2). The third passivation layer (PSV3) may protect components disposed thereunder and provide a flat upper surface. The third passivation layer (PSV3) may include the same material as at least one of the first and second passivation layers (PSV1, PSV2), but embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0179] The capping layer (CPL) may be disposed on the third passivation layer (PSV3). The capping layer (CPL) may protect components under the capping layer (CPL), such as the first light-emitting element (LD1), from external moisture and humidity. According to an embodiment, the capping layer (CPL) may entirely cover the first light-emitting element (LD1) and the third passivation layer (PSV3). The capping layer (CPL) may include at least one of a metal oxide, such as silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon oxynitride (SiOxNy), and aluminum oxide (AlOx). However, the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0180] A light functional layer (LFL) may be disposed on a capping layer (CPL). The light functional layer (LFL) may include a bank (BNK), a reflective layer (RFL), an intermediate passivation layer (QPSV), a first light conversion pattern (CCP1), a low-refractive-index layer (LRL), and a color filter layer (CFL).

[0181] A bank (BNK) may be arranged on a capping layer (CPL). The bank (BNK) may have an opening (OP). The bank (BNK) may be configured to include a light-blocking material to prevent light mixing between adjacent sub-pixels. In embodiments, the bank (BNK) may include an organic material. For example, the bank (BNK) may include an organic insulating material such as an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenol resin, a polyamide resin, or a polyimide resin.

[0182] A reflective layer (RFL) may be disposed on side surfaces of the bank (BNK) adjacent to the opening (OP). The reflective layer (RFL) is configured to reflect incident light, thereby improving light emission efficiency. The reflective layer (RFL) may include a material suitable for reflecting light. For example, the reflective layer (RFL) may include at least one of aluminum (Al), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), titanium (Ti), and an alloy of two or more materials selected therefrom. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0183] An intermediate passivation layer (QPSV) may be disposed within an opening (OP) on a capping layer (CPL). The intermediate passivation layer (QPSV) may protect components disposed thereunder and provide a flat upper surface. The intermediate passivation layer (QPSV) may include the same material as at least one of the first to third passivation layers (PSV1 to PSV3). However, embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0184] A first light conversion pattern (CCP1) may be disposed on an intermediate passivation layer (QPSV) within an opening (OP). The first light conversion pattern (CCP1) may include color conversion particles and / or scattering particles. The color conversion particles may change the wavelength of incident light to convert the incident light into light of a different color. Additionally, the color conversion particles may scatter the incident light. In embodiments, the color conversion particles may be quantum dots. The scattering particles may scatter the incident light.

[0185] The first sub-pixel (SP1) may be a red sub-pixel. When the first light-emitting element (LD1) emits blue light, the first light conversion pattern (CCP1) may include first color conversion particles (QD1) configured to convert blue light into red light. When the first light-emitting element (LD1) emits red light, the first light conversion pattern (CCP1) may include scattering particles. In this way, the particles included in the first light conversion pattern (CCP1) may be variously changed depending on the first light-emitting element (LD1).

[0186] A low-refractive-index layer (LRL) may be disposed on the bank (BNK), the reflective layer (RFL), and the first light conversion pattern (CCP1). The low-refractive-index layer (LRL) may have a lower refractive index than the first light conversion pattern (CCP1). The low-refractive-index layer (LRL) may be configured to refract or totally reflect light depending on an incident angle of the light. For example, the low-refractive-index layer (LRL) may provide light that has passed through the first light conversion pattern (CCP1) back to the first light conversion pattern (CCP1). Accordingly, the light conversion efficiency of the first light conversion pattern (CCP1) may be improved.

[0187] A color filter layer (CFL) may be disposed on a low refractive index layer (LRL). The color filter layer (CFL) may include a first color filter (CF1) and light blocking patterns (LBP). The first color filter (CF1) may overlap a first light conversion pattern (CCP1). The first color filter (CF1) may selectively transmit light of a desired wavelength range through the first color filter (CF1). When the first sub-pixel (SP1) is a red sub-pixel, the first color filter (CF1) may include a red color filter. The light blocking patterns (LBP) may include at least one of various types of light-blocking materials.

[0188] FIGS. 9 to 11 are plan views showing other embodiments of one of the pixels of FIG. 1.

[0189] Referring to FIG. 9, a pixel (PXL') may include first to third sub-pixels (SP1' to SP3'). The first to third sub-pixels (SP1' to SP3') may be arranged in the second direction (DR2). The pixel (PXL') may include first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3), a cathode electrode (CE), overcoat patterns (OCP), and first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3).

[0190] The first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3), the cathode electrode (CE), the overcoat patterns (OCP), and the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) can be described in the same manner as in the embodiments of FIG. 6. Duplicate descriptions with respect to the embodiments of FIG. 6 will be omitted, and differences from the above-described embodiments will be mainly described.

[0191] Anode transparent electrodes (ITO1') and cathode transparent electrodes (ITO2') may be disposed on the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3). The anode transparent electrodes (ITO1') and the cathode transparent electrode (ITO2') may be electrically isolated from each other. The anode transparent electrodes (ITO1') and the cathode transparent electrode (ITO2') may be formed in the same process, but may be physically separated from each other.

[0192] The anode transparent electrodes (ITO1') may extend in the first direction (DR1) and be arranged spaced apart from each other in the second direction (DR2). For example, the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1') may have a rectangular shape in a plane.

[0193] Each of the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1') may overlap at least a portion of the first element electrode (BDE1) of the corresponding light-emitting element on a plane. For example, each of the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1') may overlap approximately half of the area of ​​the first element electrode (BDE1). That is, approximately the remaining half of the area of ​​the first element electrode (BDE1) may not overlap the anode transparent electrode. According to an embodiment, although FIG. 9 is described as an example, the overlapping area is not limited to approximately half. For example, each of the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1') may overlap approximately 1 / 3 or more of the area of ​​the first element electrode (BDE1).

[0194] Accordingly, some of the overcoat patterns (OCP) overlapping the first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3) may not overlap the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1').

[0195] The cathode transparent electrode (ITO2') may include a line electrode (ITO2_LN') and branch electrodes (ITO2_BR'). The line electrode (ITO2_LN') may extend in the second direction (DR2) and may be arranged across the first to third sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3). In addition, the line electrode (ITO2_LN') may be arranged spaced apart from the overcoat patterns (OCP) in the first direction (DR1) so as not to overlap with the overcoat patterns (OCP).

[0196] The branch electrodes (ITO2_BR') may extend from the line electrode (ITO2_LN') in a first direction (DR1) and be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (DR2). For example, the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR') may have a rectangular shape in a plane.

[0197] Each of the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR') may overlap at least a portion of the second element electrode (BDE2) of the corresponding light-emitting element on a plane. For example, each of the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR') may overlap approximately half of the area of ​​the second element electrode (BDE1). That is, approximately the remaining half of the area of ​​the second element electrode (BDE2) may not overlap the branch electrode. According to an embodiment, although FIG. 9 is described as an example, the overlapping area is not limited to approximately half. For example, each of the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR') may overlap approximately 1 / 3 or more of the area of ​​the second element electrode (BDE2).

[0198] Accordingly, some of the overcoat patterns (OCP) overlapping the cathode electrode (CE) may not overlap the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR').

[0199] The anode transparent electrodes (ITO1') and the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR') may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the first direction (DR1) more than the first element electrode (BDE1) and the second element electrode (BDE2) of the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3). In addition, the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1') may be arranged to be spaced apart from one side of the first element electrode (BDE1) in a direction opposite to the second direction (DR2) and may overlap with a portion of the first element electrode (BDE1). On the other hand, the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR') may be arranged to be spaced apart from one side of the second element electrode (BDE2) in the second direction (DR2) and may overlap with a portion of the second element electrode (BDE2). Accordingly, the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1') and the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR') can be arranged so that their central axes extending in the first direction (DR1) are misaligned with each other.

[0200] Referring to FIG. 10, a pixel (PXL'') may include first to third sub-pixels (SP1'' to SP3''). The pixel (PXL'') may include first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3), a cathode electrode (CE), overcoat patterns (OCP), and first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3).

[0201] The first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3), the cathode electrode (CE), the overcoat patterns (OCP), and the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) can be described in the same manner as in the embodiments of FIG. 6. Hereinafter, descriptions overlapping with those of FIGS. 6 and 9 will be omitted, and differences from the above-described embodiments will be mainly described.

[0202] Anode transparent electrodes (ITO1'') and cathode transparent electrodes (ITO2'') may be disposed on the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3). The anode transparent electrodes (ITO1'') and the cathode transparent electrode (ITO2'') may be electrically isolated from each other. The anode transparent electrodes (ITO1'') and the cathode transparent electrode (ITO2'') may be formed in the same process, but may be physically separated from each other.

[0203] The anode transparent electrodes (ITO1'') may extend in a first direction (DR1) and be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (DR2). Each of the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1'') may include a first portion (ITO1''_PT1) and a second portion (ITO1''_PT2). The first portion (ITO1''_PT1) may extend in the first direction (DR1). The second portion (ITO1''_PT2) may extend from the first portion (ITO1''_PT1) in a diagonal direction intersecting the first and second directions (DR1, DR2).

[0204] The anode transparent electrodes (ITO1'') may overlap the first element electrodes (BDE1) of the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) on a plane. For example, each of the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1'') may overlap the entire area of ​​the first element electrode (BDE1). However, at least some of the overcoat patterns (OCP) overlapping the first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3) may not overlap the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1'').

[0205] The cathode transparent electrode (ITO2'') may include a line electrode (ITO2_LN'') and branch electrodes (ITO2_BR''). The line electrode (ITO2_LN'') may extend in the second direction (DR2) and may be arranged across the first to third sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3). In addition, the line electrode (ITO2_LN'') may be arranged spaced apart from the overcoat patterns (OCP) in the first direction (DR1) so as not to overlap with the overcoat patterns (OCP).

[0206] The branch electrodes (ITO2_BR'') may extend from the line electrode (ITO2_LN'') in a first direction (DR1) and may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (DR2). Each of the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR'') may include a first portion (ITO2''_PT1) and a second portion (ITO2''_PT2). The first portion (ITO2''_PT1) may extend in the first direction (DR1). The second portion (ITO2''_PT2) may extend from the first portion (ITO2''_PT1) in a diagonal direction intersecting the first and second directions (DR1, DR2). However, the diagonal direction in which the second part (ITO2''_PT2) of the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR'') extends may be opposite to the diagonal direction in which the second part (ITO1''_PT2) of the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1'') extends.

[0207] The branch electrodes (ITO2_BR'') may overlap the second element electrodes (BDE2) of the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) on a plane. For example, each of the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR'') may overlap the entire area of ​​the second element electrode (BDE2). However, at least some of the overcoat patterns (OCP) overlapping the cathode electrode (CE) may not overlap the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR'').

[0208] The anode transparent electrodes (ITO1'') and the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR'') may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a first direction (DR1). A distance in the first direction (DR1) between one of the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1'') and one of the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR'') may be substantially equal to a distance between a first element electrode (BDE1) and a second element electrode (BDE2) of any one of the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3). In addition, a first portion (ITO1''_PT1) of each of the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1'') may be arranged to be spaced apart from one side of the corresponding anode electrode in a direction opposite to the second direction (DR2) and may overlap with a part of the corresponding anode electrode. On the other hand, the first portion (ITO2''_PT1) of the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR'') is arranged spaced apart from one side of the cathode electrode (CE) in the second direction (DR2) and may overlap a part of the cathode electrode (CE). Accordingly, the first portions (ITO1''_PT1) of the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1'') and the first portions (ITO2''_PT1) of the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR'') may be arranged such that their central axes extending in the first direction (DR1) are misaligned with each other.

[0209] Referring to FIG. 11, a pixel (PXL''') may include first to third sub-pixels (SP1''' to SP3'''). The pixel (PXL''') may include first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3), a cathode electrode (CE), overcoat patterns (OCP), and first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3).

[0210] The first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3), the cathode electrode (CE), the overcoat patterns (OCP), and the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) can be described in the same manner as in the embodiments of FIG. 6. Hereinafter, descriptions of FIGS. 6, 9, and 10 will be omitted, and differences from the above-described embodiments will be mainly described.

[0211] Anode transparent electrodes (ITO1''') and cathode transparent electrodes (ITO2''') may be disposed on the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3). The anode transparent electrodes (ITO1''') and the cathode transparent electrode (ITO2''') may be electrically separated from each other. The anode transparent electrodes (ITO1''') and the cathode transparent electrode (ITO2''') may be formed in the same process, but may be physically separated from each other.

[0212] The anode transparent electrodes (ITO1''') may extend in a first direction (DR1) and be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (DR2). Each of the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1''') may include a first portion (ITO1'''_PT1) and a second portion (ITO1'''_PT2). The first portion (ITO1'''_PT1) may extend in the first direction (DR1). The second portion (ITO1'''_PT2) may extend from the first portion (ITO1'''_PT1) in a second direction (DR2) intersecting the first direction (DR1).

[0213] The anode transparent electrodes (ITO1''') may overlap the first element electrodes (BDE1) of the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) on a plane, respectively. For example, the second portion (ITO1'''_PT2) of each of the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1''') may overlap approximately half of the area of ​​the first element electrode (BDE1). Approximately the remaining half of the area of ​​the first element electrode (BDE1) may not overlap with the second portion (ITO1'''_PT2) of the anode transparent electrode. According to an embodiment, although FIG. 11 is described as an example, the overlapping area is not limited to approximately half. For example, each of the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1''') may overlap approximately 1 / 3 or more of the area of ​​the first element electrode (BDE1).

[0214] Accordingly, at least some of the overcoat patterns (OCP) overlapping the first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3) may not overlap the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1''').

[0215] The cathode transparent electrode (ITO2''') may include a line electrode (ITO2_LN''') and branch electrodes (ITO2_BR'''). The line electrode (ITO2_LN''') may extend in the second direction (DR2) and may be arranged across the first to third sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3). In addition, the line electrode (ITO2_LN''') may be arranged spaced apart from the overcoat patterns (OCP) in the first direction (DR1) so as not to overlap with the overcoat patterns (OCP).

[0216] The branch electrodes (ITO2_BR''') may extend from the line electrode (ITO2_LN''') in a first direction (DR1) and may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (DR2). Each of the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR''') may include a first portion (ITO2'''_PT1) and a second portion (ITO2'''_PT2). The first portion (ITO2'''_PT1) may extend in the first direction (DR1). The second portion (ITO2'''_PT2) may extend from the first portion (ITO2'''_PT1) in a second direction (DR2) intersecting the first direction (DR1).

[0217] The branch electrodes (ITO2_BR''') may overlap the second element electrodes (BDE2) of the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) on a plane, respectively. For example, the second portion (ITO2'''_PT2) of each of the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR''') may overlap approximately half of the area of ​​the second element electrode (BDE2). Approximately the remaining half of the area of ​​the second element electrode (BDE2) may not overlap with the second portion (ITO2'''_PT2) of the branch electrode. According to an embodiment, although FIG. 11 is described as an example, the overlapping area is not limited to approximately half. For example, each of the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR''') may overlap approximately 1 / 3 or more of the area of ​​the second element electrode (BDE2).

[0218] Accordingly, at least some of the overcoat patterns (OCP) overlapping the first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3) may not overlap the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR''').

[0219] The anode transparent electrodes (ITO1''') and the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR''') may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the first direction (DR1) more than the first element electrode (BDE1) and the second element electrode (BDE2) of the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3). In addition, the first and second portions (ITO1'''_PT1, ITO1'''_PT2) of each of the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1''') may be arranged to be spaced apart from one side of the corresponding anode electrode in the opposite direction of the second direction (DR2) and may overlap with a portion of the corresponding anode electrode. However, the first portion (ITO1'''_PT1) may be spaced further apart from one side of the first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3) in the opposite direction of the second direction (DR2) than the second portion (ITO1'''_PT2). In this case, the first and second portions (ITO1'''_PT1, ITO1'''_PT2) may be adjacent to the other side of the first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3).

[0220] On the other hand, the first and second portions (ITO2'''_PT1, ITO2'''_PT2) of the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR''') are arranged spaced apart from the end of the cathode electrode (CE) in the opposite direction of the second direction (DR2), so as to overlap a part of the cathode electrode (CE) in the second direction (DR2). However, the first portion (ITO2'''_PT1) may be spaced further apart from one side of the cathode electrode (CE) in the second direction (DR2) than the second portion (ITO2'''_PT2). In this case, the first and second portions (ITO1'''_PT1, ITO1'''_PT2) may be adjacent to the other side of the cathode electrode (CE).

[0221] Accordingly, the first parts (ITO1'''_PT1) of the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1') and the first parts (ITO2'''_PT1) of the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR') can be arranged so that their central axes extending in the first direction (DR1) are misaligned with each other.

[0222] However, in each of FIGS. 6, 9, 10, and 11, the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1') and the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR') are depicted as having shapes that are symmetrical to each other on a plane, but the anode transparent electrodes (ITO1') and the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR') may have different shapes.

[0223] Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing an embodiment of a method for manufacturing the display device of Fig. 1. Fig. 13 is a plan view of the display device in S1021 of Fig. 12. Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II' of Fig. 13. Hereinafter, line II' of each of Figs. 13, 15, 17, and 19 is understood as a cutting plane line at the same position as line II' of Fig. 6.

[0224] First, referring to FIG. 12, a method for manufacturing a display device (DD) according to embodiments of the present invention may include a step of forming a pixel circuit layer (S1010) and a step of forming a display element layer (S1020). The step of forming the display element layer (S1020) may include a step of forming anode electrodes and cathode electrodes (S1021), a step of forming overcoat patterns (S1022), a step of providing light-emitting elements (S1023), and a step of forming anode transparent electrodes and cathode transparent electrodes (S1024).

[0225] Referring to FIGS. 12, 13, and 14, in S1010, a pixel circuit layer (PCL) may be formed on a substrate (SUB). And, in S1021 among S1020, first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3) and a cathode electrode (CE) may be formed on the pixel circuit layer (PCL) (or, substrate (SUB)).

[0226] According to an embodiment, a pixel circuit layer (PCL) on a substrate (SUB) may be formed based on a conventional process for manufacturing a semiconductor device. For example, a conductive layer or an insulating layer included in the pixel circuit layer (PCL) may be formed by a photolithography process. Alternatively, the conductive layer or the insulating layer included in the pixel circuit layer (PCL) may be etched by various methods (wet etching, dry etching, etc.) or deposited by various methods (sputtering, chemical vapor deposition, etc.). However, the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0227] A first transistor (T_SP1) may be formed on a substrate (SUB), and a buffer layer (BFL), interlayer insulating layers (ILD), a first passivation layer (PSV1), and a second passivation layer (PSV2) may be formed.

[0228] The first transistor (T_SP1) may be any one of the transistors of the sub-pixel circuit included in the first sub-pixel (SP1). The first transistor (T_SP1) may include a semiconductor pattern (SCP), a gate electrode (GE), a first terminal (ET1), and a second terminal (ET2). In addition, a gate insulating layer (GI) may be disposed between the semiconductor pattern (SCP) and the gate electrode (GE). The first transistor (T_SP1) may be electrically connected to the first anode electrode (AE1) through the connection pattern (CP).

[0229] A cathode electrode (CE) may be formed on the pixel circuit layer (PCL). For example, the cathode electrode (CE) may be formed to extend in the second direction (DR2) and cover the first to third sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3).

[0230] According to an embodiment, the region where the cathode electrode (CE) is formed may correspond to the region where the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3), overcoat patterns (OCP), and cathode transparent electrode (ITO2) are arranged in subsequent processes.

[0231] First to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3) may be formed on the pixel circuit layer (PCL). For example, the first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3) may be formed to be spaced apart from the cathode electrode (CE) in a first direction (DR1). In addition, the first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3) may be formed to be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (DR2) and to be isolated from each other.

[0232] According to an embodiment, the region where the cathode electrode (CE) is formed may correspond to the region where the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3), overcoat patterns (OCP), and anode transparent electrodes (ITO1) are arranged in subsequent processes.

[0233] Fig. 15 is a plan view of the display device in S1022 of Fig. 12. Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II' of Fig. 15.

[0234] Referring to FIGS. 12, 15 and 16, in S1022 among S1020, first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3) may be formed on the first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3) and the cathode electrode (CE).

[0235] According to an embodiment, the first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3) may be formed on the pixel circuit layer (PCL) (or substrate (SUB)) based on a process such as deposition. For example, after forming the first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3), an additional etching process may be further performed. For example, although not shown, grooves may be further formed in the first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3) through the additional etching process. In this case, as the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) are respectively arranged on the grooves of the first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3), the alignment of the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) may be further improved.

[0236] According to an embodiment, first and second reflective electrodes (RFE1, RFE2) may be formed on the first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3) and the cathode electrode (CE). For example, the first reflective electrode (RFE1) may be formed to cover the first anode electrode (AE1). And, the second reflective electrode (RFE2) may be formed to cover the cathode electrode (CE).

[0237] First to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3) may be formed on the first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3) and the cathode electrode (CE). The first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3) may extend in a first direction (DR1) and be formed to be spaced apart from each other in a second direction (DR2). In addition, the first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3) may partially cover the first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3) and the cathode electrode (CE). For example, the first overcoat pattern (OCP1) may be arranged to overlap a portion of the first anode electrode (AE1) and a portion of the cathode electrode (CE). The second overcoat pattern (OCP2) may be arranged to overlap a portion of the second anode electrode (AE2) and a portion of the cathode electrode (CE). The third overcoat pattern (OCP3) may be arranged to overlap a portion of the third anode electrode (AE3) and a portion of the cathode electrode (CE). In addition, each of the first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3) may be arranged to include a region that does not overlap with both the first to third anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3) and the cathode electrode (CE).

[0238] Fig. 17 is a plan view of the display device in S1023 of Fig. 12. Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view along line II' of Fig. 17.

[0239] Referring to FIGS. 12, 17, and 18, in S1023 among S1020, first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) may be formed on first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3).

[0240] According to an embodiment, the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) may be arranged on a substrate (SUB) (or pixel circuit layer (PCL)) by various transfer methods. The first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) may be arranged on the first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3), respectively. The first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) may overlap the first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3), respectively.

[0241] Each of the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) may include first and second element electrodes (BDE1, BDE2). The first and second element electrodes (BDE1, BDE2) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the first direction (DR1). In addition, the first and second element electrodes (BDE1, BDE2) may be arranged on side surfaces of the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) so as to face the third direction (DR3). Accordingly, the first and second element electrodes (BDE1, BDE2) may be exposed.

[0242] The first and second element electrodes (BDE1, BDE2) of each of the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3) may overlap the anode electrodes (AE1 to AE3) and the cathode electrode (CE), respectively. For example, the first element (BDE1) of the first light-emitting element (LD1) may overlap the first anode electrode (AE1). The second element (BDE2) of the first light-emitting element (LD1) may overlap the cathode electrode (CE). The first element (BDE1) of the second light-emitting element (LD2) may overlap the second anode electrode (AE2). The second element (BDE2) of the second light-emitting element (LD2) may overlap the cathode electrode (CE). The first element (BDE1) of the third light-emitting element (LD3) can overlap with the third anode electrode (AE3). The second element (BDE2) of the third light-emitting element (LD3) can overlap with the cathode electrode (CE).

[0243] Fig. 19 is a plan view of the display device in S1024 of Fig. 12. Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II' of Fig. 19.

[0244] Referring to FIG. 12, FIG. 19 and FIG. 20, in S1024 among S1020, anode transparent electrodes (ITO1) and cathode transparent electrodes (ITO2) can be formed on the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3).

[0245] According to an embodiment, anode transparent electrodes (ITO1) may be formed to overlap the first element electrode (BDE1) of each of the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3). For example, the first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) may overlap a portion of the first element electrode (BDE1) of the first light-emitting element (LD1) on the first anode electrode (AE1). The second anode transparent electrode (ITO1_2) may overlap a portion of the first element electrode (BDE1) of the second light-emitting element (LD2) on the second anode electrode (AE2). The third anode transparent electrode (ITO1_3) may overlap a portion of the first element electrode (BDE1) of the third light-emitting element (LD3) on the third anode electrode (AE3). However, each of the first to third anode transparent electrodes (ITO1_1 to ITO1_3) on the plane can overlap with approximately 1 / 3 or more of the area of ​​the first element electrode (BDE1) of the corresponding light-emitting element.

[0246] The first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1) may be electrically connected to the first element electrode (BDE1) of the first light-emitting element (LD1). In addition, the first element electrode (BDE1) of the first light-emitting element (LD1) may be electrically connected to the first anode electrode (AE1) through the first anode transparent electrode (ITO1_1). The second anode transparent electrode (ITO1_2) may be electrically connected to the first element electrode (BDE1) of the second light-emitting element (LD2). In addition, the first element electrode (BDE1) of the second light-emitting element (LD2) may be electrically connected to the second anode electrode (AE2) through the second anode transparent electrode (ITO1_2). The third anode transparent electrode (ITO1_3) can be electrically connected to the first element electrode (BDE1) of the third light-emitting element (LD3). In addition, the first element electrode (BDE1) of the third light-emitting element (LD3) can be electrically connected to the third anode electrode (AE3) via the third anode transparent electrode (ITO1_3).

[0247] A cathode transparent electrode (ITO2) may be formed to overlap the second element electrode (BDE2) of each of the first to third light-emitting elements (LD1 to LD3). The cathode transparent electrodes (ITO2) may include a line electrode (ITO2_LN) and branch electrodes (ITO2_BR). For example, the line electrode (ITO2_LN) may extend in the second direction (DR2) and be arranged across the first to third sub-pixels (SP1 to SP3). In addition, the line electrode (ITO2_LN) may be arranged to be spaced apart from the first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3) in the first direction (DR1), so as not to overlap the first to third overcoat patterns (OCP1 to OCP3).

[0248] On the other hand, each of the branch electrodes (ITO2_BR) may extend in the first direction (DR1) from the line electrode (ITO2_LN) and overlap with the second element electrode (BDE2). For example, the first branch electrode (ITO2_BR1) may overlap with a portion of the second element electrode (BDE2) of the first light-emitting element (LD1) on the cathode electrode (CE). The second branch electrode (ITO2_BR2) may overlap with a portion of the second element electrode (BDE2) of the second light-emitting element (LD2) on the cathode electrode (CE). The third branch electrode (ITO2_BR3) may overlap with a portion of the second element electrode (BDE2) of the third light-emitting element (LD3) on the cathode electrode (CE). However, each of the first to third electrodes (ITO2_BR1 to ITO2_BR3) on the plane can overlap with approximately 1 / 3 or more of the area of ​​the second element electrode (BDE2) of the corresponding light-emitting element.

[0249] The first branch electrode (ITO2_BR1) may be electrically connected to the second element electrode (BDE2) of the first light-emitting element (LD1). In addition, the second element electrode (BDE2) of the first light-emitting element (LD1) may be electrically connected to the cathode electrode (CE) through the first branch electrode (ITO2_BR1). The second branch electrode (ITO2_BR2) may be electrically connected to the second element electrode (BDE2) of the second light-emitting element (LD2). In addition, the second element electrode (BDE2) of the second light-emitting element (LD2) may be electrically connected to the cathode electrode (CE) through the second branch electrode (ITO2_BR2). The third branch electrode (ITO2_BR3) may be electrically connected to the second element electrode (BDE2) of the third light-emitting element (LD3). And, the second element electrode (BDE2) of the third light-emitting element (LD3) can be electrically connected to the cathode electrode (CE) through the third electrode (ITO2_BR3).

[0250] Figure 21 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a display system.

[0251] Referring to FIG. 21, the display system (1000) may include a processor (1100) and a display device (1200).

[0252] The processor (1100) can perform various tasks and calculations. In embodiments, the processor (1100) may include an application processor, a graphics processor, a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), etc. The processor (1100) can be connected to other components of the display system (1000) via a bus system and control them.

[0253] The processor (1100) can transmit image data (IMG) and a control signal (CTRL) to the display device (1200). The display device (1200) can display an image based on the image data (IMG) and the control signal (CTRL). The display device (1200) can be configured similarly to the display device (DD) described with reference to FIG. 1. In this case, the image data (IMG) and the control signal (CTRL) can be provided as the input image data (IMG) and the control signal (CTRL) of FIG. 1, respectively.

[0254] The display system (1000) may include a computing system that provides an image display function, such as a smart watch, a mobile phone, a smart phone, a portable computer, a tablet personal computer, a watch phone, an automotive display, smart glasses, a portable multimedia player (PMP), a navigation system, an ultra mobile personal computer (UMPC), etc. In addition, the display system (1000) may include at least one of a head mounted display (HMD), a virtual reality (VR) device, a mixed reality (MR) device, and an augmented reality (AR) device.

[0255] Figures 22 to 25 are perspective views showing application examples of the display system of Figure 21.

[0256] Referring to FIG. 22, the display system (1000) of FIG. 21 can be applied to a smart watch (2000) including a display portion (2100) and a strap portion (2200).

[0257] The smartwatch (2000) may be a wearable electronic device. For example, the smartwatch (2000) may have a structure in which a strap portion (2200) is attached to the user's wrist. Here, a display system (1000) and / or a display device (1200) may be applied to the display portion (2100), so that image data including time information may be provided to the user.

[0258] Referring to FIG. 23, the display system (1000) of FIG. 21 can be applied to an automotive display system (3000). Here, the automotive display system (3000) can include a computing system provided inside and / or outside a vehicle to provide image data.

[0259] For example, the display system (1000) and / or the display device (1200) may be applied to at least one of an infotainment panel (3100), a cluster (3200), a co-driver display (3300), a head-up display (3400), a side mirror display (3500), and a rear seat display (3600) provided in a vehicle.

[0260] Referring to FIG. 24, the display system (1000) of FIG. 21 can be applied to smart glasses (4000). The smart glasses (4000) may be a wearable electronic device that can be worn on a user's head. For example, the smart glasses (4000) may be a wearable device for augmented reality.

[0261] Smart glasses (4000) may include a frame (4100) and a lens unit (4200). The frame (4100) may include a housing (4110) that supports the lens unit (4200) and a leg unit (4120) for a user to wear. The leg unit (4120) is connected to the housing (4110) via a hinge and may be folded or unfolded relative to the housing (4110).

[0262] The frame (4100) may be equipped with a battery, a touch pad, a microphone, a camera, etc. In addition, the frame (4100) may be equipped with a projector that outputs light, a processor that controls light signals, etc.

[0263] The lens unit (4200) may include an optical member that transmits or reflects light. For example, the lens unit (4200) may include glass, transparent synthetic resin, or the like.

[0264] In order for the user's eyes to recognize visual information, the lens unit (4200) can reflect an image by an optical signal transmitted from the projector of the frame (4100) onto the rear surface of the lens unit (4200) (e.g., the surface facing the user's eyes). For example, the user can recognize visual information such as the time and date displayed on the lens unit (4200). At this time, the projector and / or the lens unit (4200) may be a type of display device. The display device (1200) may be applied to the projector and / or the lens unit (4200).

[0265] Referring to FIG. 25, the display system (1000) of FIG. 21 can be applied to a head-mounted display device (500).

[0266] The head-mounted display device (5000) may be a wearable electronic device that can be worn on a user's head. For example, the head-mounted display device (5000) may be a wearable device for virtual reality or mixed reality.

[0267] A head-mounted display device (5000) may include a head-mounted band (5100) and a display device storage case (5200). The head-mounted band (5100) may be connected to the display device storage case (5200). The head-mounted band (5100) may include horizontal bands and / or vertical bands for securing the head-mounted display device (5000) to a user's head. The horizontal band may be configured to surround the side of the user's head, and the vertical band may be configured to surround the upper portion of the user's head. However, embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the head-mounted band (5100) may be implemented in the form of eyeglass frames, helmets, etc.

[0268] The display device storage case (5200) can store the display system (1000) and / or the display device (1200).

[0269] In the display device according to embodiments of the present invention, the length of the residue pattern (PRP) formed along the periphery of each overcoat pattern (OCP) can be increased through the arrangement design of the anode transparent electrode (ITO1) and the cathode transparent electrode (ITO2). Accordingly, the risk of defects can be reduced by preventing the first element electrode (BDE1) and the second element electrode (BDE2) from being short-circuited by the residue pattern (PRP).

[0270] Although specific embodiments and applications have been described herein, other embodiments and variations may be derived from the above description. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, but extends to the claims set forth below, various obvious modifications, and equivalents.

Claims

1. Includes a display element layer arranged on a substrate, The above display element layer is, An anode electrode and a cathode electrode spaced apart from each other in a first direction on the substrate; An overcoat pattern partially covering the anode electrode and the cathode electrode; A light emitting element disposed on the overcoat pattern and including a first element electrode and a second element electrode, wherein the first element electrode and the second element electrode are adjacent to the anode electrode and the cathode electrode, respectively; An anode transparent electrode disposed on the overcoat pattern and electrically connecting the first element electrode and the anode electrode to each other; and A cathode transparent electrode is disposed on the overcoat pattern and electrically connects the second element electrode and the cathode electrode to each other, The above cathode transparent electrode is, A line electrode extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction; and including a branch electrode extending in the first direction from the line electrode; A display device wherein the first element electrode and the second element electrode are spaced apart from each other by a first distance in the first direction, and the anode transparent electrode and the branch electrode are spaced apart from each other by a second distance greater than or equal to the first distance in the first direction.

2. In paragraph 1, A display device in which the branch electrode overlaps the overcoat pattern on a plane, and the line electrode does not overlap the overcoat pattern on a plane.

3. In paragraph 2, The circumference of the above overcoat pattern is A first edge overlapping the anode transparent electrode on a plane; A second edge overlapping the branch electrode on the plane; a third edge connecting the first and second edges; and Connecting between the first and second edges, but including a fourth edge opposite to the third edge, A display device wherein at least one of the third edge and the fourth edge has a length longer than the first distance.

4. In paragraph 3, A display device wherein the display element layer further includes a residue pattern disposed adjacent to at least one of the third edge and the fourth edge.

5. In paragraph 4, A display device wherein the above residue pattern has a length longer than the first distance.

6. In paragraph 1, The above overcoat pattern includes a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion sequentially arranged in the second direction, each of the first to third portions extending in the first direction on a plane and overlapping the anode electrode and the cathode electrode, The above first part overlaps the anode transparent electrode without overlapping the branch electrode on the plane, The second part overlaps both the branch electrode and the anode transparent electrode on a plane, The above third part is a display device that overlaps the branch electrode without overlapping the anode transparent electrode on a plane.

7. In paragraph 1, The first element electrode and the second element electrode are spaced apart from each other in the first direction, The anode transparent electrode overlaps at least a portion of the first element electrode on a plane, A display device in which the cathode transparent electrode overlaps at least a portion of the second element electrode on a plane.

8. In paragraph 1, A display device in which the anode transparent electrode overlaps the first element electrode by at least 1 / 3 of the area of the first element electrode on a plane.

9. In paragraph 1, The anode electrode has a first width in the second direction, The above anode transparent electrode has a second width in the second direction, A display device wherein the second width is narrower than the first width.

10. In paragraph 1, The above anode transparent electrode comprises a first part and a second part, The above first part extends in the above first direction, A display device wherein the second portion extends from the first portion in a diagonal direction intersecting the first and second directions and overlaps at least a portion of the first element electrode.

11. In paragraph 1, A display device in which the cathode transparent electrode overlaps the second element electrode by at least 1 / 3 of the area of the second element electrode on a plane.

12. In paragraph 1, A display device in which the line electrode is spaced apart from the overcoat pattern in the first direction.

13. In paragraph 1, The above branch electrode includes a first part and a second part, The above first part extends in the above first direction, A display device wherein the second portion extends from the first portion in a diagonal direction intersecting the first and second directions and overlaps at least a portion of the second element electrode.

14. In paragraph 1, The anode transparent electrode and the cathode transparent electrode are arranged in the same layer, A display device wherein the anode transparent electrode and the cathode transparent electrode include the same transparent conductive material.

15. Including a display element layer arranged on a substrate, The above display element layer is, Anode electrodes arranged on the above substrate; A cathode electrode disposed on the substrate and spaced apart from the anode electrodes in a first direction; Overcoat patterns partially covering the anode electrodes and the cathode electrode; Light-emitting elements disposed on the above overcoat patterns, each light-emitting element including a first element electrode and a second element electrode; Anode transparent electrodes arranged on the overcoat patterns and electrically connecting the first element electrodes of the light-emitting elements to the anode electrodes; and A cathode transparent electrode is disposed on the overcoat patterns and electrically connects the second element electrodes of the light-emitting elements to the cathode electrode, The above cathode transparent electrode is, A line electrode extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction; and including branch electrodes extending in the first direction from the line electrode, A display device wherein the first element electrode and the second element electrode of any one of the light-emitting elements are spaced apart from each other by a first distance in the first direction, and any one of the anode transparent electrodes and any one of the branch electrodes are spaced apart from each other by a second distance greater than or equal to the first distance in the first direction.

16. In paragraph 15, The light emitting elements include a first light emitting element and a second light emitting element, The above anode electrodes include a first anode electrode and a second anode electrode, The anode transparent electrodes include a first anode transparent electrode electrically connecting the first element electrode of the first light-emitting element to the first anode electrode, and a second anode transparent electrode electrically connecting the first element electrode of the second light-emitting element to the second anode electrode, A display device wherein the first anode transparent electrode and the second anode transparent electrode are spaced apart by a third distance in the second direction, and the first anode electrode and the second anode electrode are spaced apart by a fourth distance that is smaller than the third distance in the second direction.

17. In paragraph 16, Each of the first element electrodes of the first and second light-emitting elements has a first width in the second direction, A display device wherein the third distance is less than or equal to the sum of half of the first width and the fourth distance.

18. In paragraph 15, A display device in which the branch electrode overlaps the overcoat pattern on a plane, and the line electrode does not overlap the overcoat pattern on a plane.

19. In paragraph 18, The circumference of the above overcoat pattern is A first edge overlapping the anode transparent electrode on a plane; A second edge overlapping the branch electrode on the plane; a third edge connecting the first and second edges; and Connecting between the first and second edges, but including a fourth edge opposite to the third edge, A display device wherein at least one of the third edge and the fourth edge has a length longer than the first distance.

20. In paragraph 19, A display device wherein the display element layer further includes a residue pattern disposed adjacent to at least one of the third edge and the fourth edge.

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