Display device and electronic device comprising same

Abstract

This display device comprises: a substrate including a first region and a second region not overlapping the first region; a plurality of light-emitting elements disposed on the substrate and emitting light; first transmission lines applying a first voltage to light-emitting elements overlapping the first region from among the plurality of light-emitting elements; second transmission lines insulated from the first transmission lines, and applying a second voltage to light-emitting elements overlapping the second region from among the plurality of light-emitting elements; and a connecting layer connecting each of the first and second transmission lines to each of the plurality of light emitting elements.

Description

Display device and electronic device including same

[0001] The present invention relates to a display device and an electronic device including the same.

[0002] As interest in information displays has grown recently, research and development on display devices are continuously being conducted.

[0003] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a display device with improved display quality.

[0004] The tasks of the present invention are not limited to the tasks mentioned above, and other technical tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0005] A display device according to embodiments of the present invention includes a substrate including a first region and a second region that does not overlap the first region; a plurality of light-emitting elements disposed on the substrate and emitting light; first transmission lines that apply a first voltage to light-emitting elements overlapping the first region among the plurality of light-emitting elements; second transmission lines that are insulated from the first transmission lines and apply a second voltage to light-emitting elements overlapping the second region among the plurality of light-emitting elements; and a connecting layer that connects each of the first and second transmission lines and each of the plurality of light-emitting elements to each other.

[0006] In one embodiment, the first region may be located in the central portion of the substrate, and the second region may surround the first region.

[0007] In one embodiment, the first transmission lines may be connected to each other to form a first mesh structure, and the second transmission lines may be connected to each other to form a second mesh structure.

[0008] In one embodiment, the display device may further include a first voltage terminal that receives the first voltage and transmits the first voltage to the first transmission lines; and a second voltage terminal that receives the second voltage and transmits the second voltage to the second transmission lines.

[0009] In one embodiment, the connecting layer may include a plurality of connecting electrodes spaced apart from each other.

[0010] In one embodiment, the plurality of connecting electrodes may be electrically connected to the plurality of light-emitting elements, respectively.

[0011] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of connecting electrodes can be electrically connected to one of the first transmission lines and the second transmission lines.

[0012] In one embodiment, the substrate may further include a third region that does not overlap the first and second regions.

[0013] In one embodiment, the plurality of light-emitting elements may include: first light-emitting elements that emit light of a first color and overlap with the first region; second light-emitting elements that emit light of a second color different from the first color and overlap with the second region; and third light-emitting elements that emit light of a third color different from the first and second colors and overlap with the third region.

[0014] In one embodiment, the display device may further include third transmission lines that are insulated from the first and second transmission lines and apply a third voltage to the third light-emitting elements among the plurality of light-emitting elements.

[0015] In one embodiment, when the first color is red, the second color is green, and the third color is blue, the third voltage may be greater than each of the first and second voltages, and the second voltage may be greater than the first voltage.

[0016] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of connecting electrodes can be electrically connected to one of the first transmission lines, the second transmission lines, and the third transmission lines.

[0017] In one embodiment, the display device may further include a third voltage terminal that receives the third voltage and transmits the third voltage to the third transmission lines.

[0018] A display device according to embodiments of the present invention includes: a substrate; a pixel circuit layer disposed on the substrate; a first insulating layer disposed on the pixel circuit layer; a first metal layer disposed on the first insulating layer and receiving a first voltage; a second insulating layer disposed on the first metal layer; a second metal layer disposed on the second insulating layer, insulated from the first metal layer, and receiving a second voltage applied separately from the first voltage; a third insulating layer disposed on the second metal layer; a connecting layer disposed on the third insulating layer and electrically connected to each of the first metal layer and the second metal layer; and light-emitting elements disposed on the connecting layer and electrically connected to the connecting layer.

[0019] In one embodiment, the first metal layer may include first transmission lines that are connected to each other, and the second metal layer may include second transmission lines that are connected to each other.

[0020] In one embodiment, the connecting layer may include a plurality of connecting electrodes spaced apart from each other and each electrically connected to one of the first transmission lines and the second transmission lines.

[0021] In one embodiment, the first transmission lines can transmit the first voltage to some of the light-emitting elements through the connecting electrodes, respectively, and the second transmission lines can transmit the second voltage to the remaining light-emitting elements through the connecting electrodes, respectively.

[0022] In one embodiment, the display device further includes anode electrodes disposed between the pixel circuit layer and the first insulating layer, each of the anode electrodes being electrically connected to one of the first transmission lines and the second transmission lines.

[0023] A display device according to embodiments of the present invention includes: a substrate; a pixel circuit layer disposed on the substrate; light-emitting elements disposed on the pixel circuit layer; a connection layer disposed on the light-emitting elements and electrically connected to the light-emitting elements; a first insulating layer disposed on the connection layer; a first metal layer disposed on the first insulating layer, electrically connected to the connection layer, and receiving a first voltage; a second insulating layer disposed on the first metal layer; and a second metal layer disposed on the second insulating layer, electrically connected to the connection layer, insulated from the first metal layer, and receiving a second voltage applied separately from the first voltage.

[0024] In one embodiment, the display device further includes cathode electrodes disposed on the second metal layer, each of the cathode electrodes being electrically connected to one of the first metal layer and the second metal layer.

[0025] An electronic device according to embodiments of the present invention includes a display device; and a power supply configured to supply power to the display device; the display device includes a substrate including a first region and a second region that does not overlap the first region; a plurality of light-emitting elements disposed on the substrate and emitting light; first transmission lines that apply a first voltage to light-emitting elements overlapping the first region among the plurality of light-emitting elements; second transmission lines that are insulated from the first transmission lines and apply a second voltage to light-emitting elements overlapping the second region among the plurality of light-emitting elements; and a connecting layer that connects each of the first and second transmission lines and each of the plurality of light-emitting elements to each other.

[0026] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings.

[0027] According to the above-described embodiment, since the transmission lines of the display panel are configured as multiple layers of two or more, voltages can be individually supplied to each layer and applied to the light-emitting elements. That is, the first voltage or the second voltage can be individually applied to each of the first light-emitting elements and the second light-emitting elements. Through this, separate voltages can be applied to each area within the display area.

[0028] By designing the display area to be applied with separate voltages for each region, the phenomenon of voltage drop (IR drop) toward the center of the display area is mitigated, thereby preventing luminance differences between regions within the display area. Accordingly, the uniformity between regions of the display panel is improved, and the display quality of the display panel can be efficiently improved.

[0029] The effects according to the embodiments are not limited to those exemplified above, and more diverse effects are included in this specification.

[0030] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a display device.

[0031] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of one of the sub-pixels of FIG. 1.

[0032] FIG. 3 is a plan view showing an embodiment of the display panel of FIG. 1.

[0033] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of the display panel of FIG. 3.

[0034] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of the display panel of FIG. 3.

[0035] FIG. 6 is a plan view schematically illustrating one embodiment of the display panel of FIG. 3.

[0036] Fig. 7 is a schematic plan view of the connection layer of Fig. 6.

[0037] Fig. 8 is a schematic plan view of the first metal layer of Fig. 6.

[0038] Figure 9 is a schematic plan view of the second metal layer of Figure 6.

[0039] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines II' and II-II' of Fig. 6.

[0040] Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of Fig. 10.

[0041] FIG. 12 is a plan view schematically illustrating another embodiment of the display panel of FIG. 3.

[0042] Fig. 13 is a schematic plan view of the connection layer of Fig. 12.

[0043] Fig. 14 is a schematic plan view of the first metal layer of Fig. 12.

[0044] Fig. 15 is a schematic plan view of the second metal layer of Fig. 12.

[0045] Fig. 16 is a schematic plan view of the third metal layer of Fig. 12.

[0046] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines III-III', IV-IV', and VV' of Figure 12.

[0047] Figure 18 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a display system.

[0048] Figures 19 to 22 are perspective views showing application examples of the display system of Figure 18.

[0049] The present invention is susceptible to various modifications and takes various forms. Specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail herein. However, this is not intended to limit the present invention to specific disclosed forms, but rather to encompass all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and technical scope of the present invention.

[0050] In describing each drawing, similar reference numerals are used to designate similar components. In the attached drawings, the dimensions of structures are shown exaggerated for clarity of the present invention. Terms such as first, second, etc. may be used to describe various components, but these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another. For example, a first component could be referred to as a second component, and similarly, a second component could also be referred to as a first component, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0051] In this application, it should be understood that terms such as "comprise" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification, but do not preemptively exclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof. When a part such as a layer, film, region, or plate is said to be "on" another part, this includes not only the case where it is "directly above" the other part, but also the case where there is another part in between. In this specification, when it is said that a part such as a layer, film, region, or plate is formed on another part, the direction in which it is formed is not limited to the upper direction, but also includes the case where it is formed in the side or lower direction. Conversely, when it is said that a part such as a layer, film, region, or plate is "under" another part, this includes not only the case where it is "directly below" the other part, but also the case where there is another part in between.

[0052] Hereinafter, with reference to the attached drawings, preferred embodiments of the present invention and other details necessary for those skilled in the art to easily understand the content of the present invention will be described in detail. In the following description, singular expressions also include plural expressions, unless the context clearly indicates that only the singular is included.

[0053] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a display device.

[0054] Referring to FIG. 1, a 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). The voltage generator (140) may be referred to as a power supply device.

[0055] The display panel (DP) includes sub-pixels (SP). The sub-pixels (SP) can be connected to a gate driver (120) via first to m-th gate lines (GL1 to GLm). The sub-pixels (SP) can be connected to a data driver (130) via first to n-th data lines (DL1 to DLn).

[0056] 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.

[0057] Two or more sub-pixels (SP) among the sub-pixels can constitute one pixel (PXL). For example, the pixel (PXL) can include four sub-pixels (SP) 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 (SP) included in it.

[0058] The gate driver (120) is 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) can output gate signals to the first to m-th gate lines (GL1 to GLm) in response to a gate control signal (GCS). In one embodiment, the gate control signal (GCS) can include a start signal indicating the start of each frame, a horizontal synchronization signal, and the like.

[0059] 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.

[0060] The data driver (130) is 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) receives image data (DATA) and a data control signal (DCS) from the controller (150). The data driver (130) operates in response to the data control signal (DCS). In one embodiment, the data control signal (DCS) may include a source start signal, a source shift clock, a source output enable signal, etc.

[0061] 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.

[0062] In one embodiment, the gate driver (120) and data driver (130) may include complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) circuit elements.

[0063] The voltage generator (140) can operate in response to a voltage control signal (VCS) from the controller (150). The voltage generator (140) is 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 a plurality of voltages by receiving an input voltage from the outside of the display device (DD) and regulating the received voltage.

[0064] 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 another embodiment, at least one of the first and second power voltages can be provided from outside the display device (DD).

[0065] 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 one embodiment, 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).

[0066] The controller (150) controls all operations of the display device (DD). The controller (150) receives 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).

[0067] 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 one embodiment, 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.

[0068] 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 another embodiment, 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).

[0069] Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of one of the sub-pixels of Fig. 1. In Fig. 2, a sub-pixel (SPij) arranged in an ith row (i is an integer greater than or equal to 1 and less than or equal to m) and a jth 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 is exemplarily illustrated.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 2, a sub-pixel (SPij) may include a sub-pixel circuit (SPC) and a light-emitting element (LD).

[0071] A light emitting element (LD) is connected between a first power supply voltage node (VDDN) and a second power supply voltage node (VSSN). The first power supply voltage node (VDDN) is connected to one of the power supply lines (PL) of FIG. 1 and receives a first power supply voltage. The second power supply voltage node (VSSN) is connected to another of the power supply lines (PL) of FIG. 1 and receives a second power supply voltage. The first power supply voltage may have a higher voltage level than the second power supply voltage.

[0072] A light emitting element (LD) is connected between an anode electrode (AE) and a cathode electrode (CE). The anode electrode (AE) may be connected to a first power supply voltage node (VDDN) through a sub-pixel circuit (SPC). For example, the anode electrode (AE) may be connected to the first power supply 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 supply voltage node (VSSN). The light emitting element (LD) is configured to emit light according to a current flowing from the anode electrode (AE) to the cathode electrode (CE).

[0073] The sub-pixel circuit (SPC) may be connected to the ith gate line (GLi) among the first to mth gate lines (GL1 to GLm) of FIG. 1 and to the jth data line (DLj) among the first to nth data lines (DL1 to DLn) of FIG. 1. In response to a gate signal received through the ith gate line (GLi), the sub-pixel circuit (SPC) controls the light-emitting element (LD) to emit light according to a data signal received through the jth data line (DLj). In one embodiment, 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).

[0074] For these operations, a sub-pixel circuit (SPC) may include pixel circuits, for example transistors and one or more capacitors.

[0075] The transistors of the sub-pixel circuit (SPC) may include P-type transistors and / or N-type transistors. In one embodiment, the transistors of the sub-pixel circuit (SPC) may include MOSFETs (Metal Oxide Silicon Field Effect Transistors). In one embodiment, the transistors of the sub-pixel circuit (SPC) may include amorphous silicon semiconductors, monocrystalline silicon semiconductors, polycrystalline silicon semiconductors, oxide semiconductors, etc.

[0076] FIG. 3 is a plan view showing an embodiment of the display panel of FIG. 1.

[0077] Referring to FIG. 3, a display panel (DP) may include a display area (DA), a non-display area (NDA), and a pad area (PA). The display panel (DP) displays an image through the display area (DA). The pad area (PA) is spaced apart from the display area (DA) in a second direction (DR2). The non-display area (NDA) is arranged around the display area (DA).

[0078] A display panel (DP) includes 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 zigzag shape along the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2). As another example, the sub-pixels (SP) may be arranged in a matrix shape along the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2). The arrangement of the sub-pixels (SP) may vary depending on embodiments. The first direction (DR1) may be a row direction, and the second direction (DR2) may be a column direction.

[0079] 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 four sub-pixels (SP1 to SP4), but embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the pixel (PXL) may include two or three sub-pixels. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, it is assumed that the pixel (PXL) includes first to fourth sub-pixels (SP1 to SP4).

[0080] Each of the first to fourth sub-pixels (SP1 to SP4) 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) and the fourth sub-pixel (SP4) are configured to generate green color light, and the third sub-pixel (SP3) generates blue color light.

[0081] Each of the first to fourth sub-pixels (SP1 to SP4) may include at least one light-emitting element configured to generate light. In one embodiment, the light-emitting elements of the first to fourth sub-pixels (SP1 to SP4) may generate light of the same color. For example, the light-emitting elements of the first to fourth sub-pixels (SP1 to SP4) may generate blue light. In another embodiment, the light-emitting elements of the first to fourth sub-pixels (SP1 to SP4) may generate light of different colors. For example, the light-emitting elements of the first to fourth sub-pixels (SP1 to SP4) may generate red light, green light, blue light, and green light, respectively.

[0082] 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.

[0083] In the non-display area (NDA), components for controlling sub-pixels (SP) and transmitting signals from pads (PD) can be arranged. In the non-display area (NDA), pads (PD) for supplying the first power voltage (VDDN) and the second power voltage (VSSN) of FIG. 2 to the power lines (PL) of FIG. 1, signal lines connected to the first to m-th gate lines (GL1 to GLm) and the first to n-th data lines (DL1 to DLn) of FIG. 1 can be arranged.

[0084] The cathode electrode (CE) of FIG. 2 can receive a second power voltage (VSSN) from some of the pads (PD) and supply the second power voltage (VSSN) to the N-type semiconductor layer of the light-emitting element, and some of the pads (PD) other than the pads (PD) that supply the second power voltage (VSSN) can supply the first power voltage (VDDN) to the P-type semiconductor layer of the light-emitting element via the anode electrode (AE). The light-emitting element can emit light due to the voltage difference between the first power voltage (VDDN) and the second power voltage (VSSN).

[0085] 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 one embodiment, 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) via pads (PD). In another embodiment, 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).

[0086] Pads (PD) connected to wires arranged in a non-display area (NDA) may be arranged in the pad area (PA). The pads (PD) may be connected to a driver integrated circuit (DIC).

[0087] In one embodiment, 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, circle, semicircle, or ellipse.

[0088] In one embodiment, the display panel (DP) may have a flat display surface. In another embodiment, the display panel (DP) may have an at least partially rounded display surface. In one embodiment, the display panel (DP) may be bendable, foldable, or rollable. In these 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 (DP1) may include a substrate (SUB), and a pixel circuit layer (PCL), a display element layer (DPL), and a light functional 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 one embodiment, 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) is arranged on a substrate (SUB). The pixel circuit layer (PCL) may include insulating layers and semiconductor electrodes and conductive electrodes arranged between the insulating layers. The conductive electrodes 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 power lines for driving the display element layer (DPL).

[0096] A display element layer (DPL) is 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 one embodiment, 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 comprising color filters. The color filter may selectively transmit light of a specific wavelength (or color). In one embodiment, the color filter layer may be omitted.

[0099] A window may be provided on the light functional layer (LFL) to protect the exposed surface (or upper surface) of the display panel (DP1). The window may protect the display panel (DP1) 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 (DP2) 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) are 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, overlapping descriptions are omitted.

[0102] The input sensing layer (ISL) can detect user input on the upper surface (or display surface) of the display panel (DP2). 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 schematic plan view of one embodiment of the display panel of Fig. 3. Fig. 7 is a schematic plan view of the connecting layer of Fig. 6. Fig. 8 is a schematic plan view of the first metal layer of Fig. 6. Fig. 9 is a schematic plan view of the second metal layer of Fig. 6.

[0104] Referring to Fig. 6, the display area (DA) includes sub-pixels (SP). In one embodiment, the sub-pixels (SP) are arranged in a pentile shape in a zigzag shape along a fourth direction (DR4) between the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2) and a fifth direction (DR5) orthogonal to the fourth direction (DR4). TM ) structure. Sub-pixels (SP) can be arranged in each sub-pixel area (SPA).

[0105] In a display panel (DP), a display area (DA) may include a first area (A1) and a second area (A2). The first area (A1) may be located in the center of the display area (DA) of the substrate (SUB). The second area (A2) is an area of ​​the display area (DA) excluding the first area (A1) and may be located at an outer portion of the display area (DA). In this case, the second area (A2) may surround the first area (A1). However, the embodiments are not limited thereto, and the arrangement between the first and second areas (A1, A2) with respect to the display area (DA) is not limited thereto. In addition, the display area (DA) may be divided into three or more areas.

[0106] The sub-pixels (SP) may each include light-emitting elements (LD) that generate and emit light. That is, the light-emitting elements (LD) may be arranged in each of the sub-pixel areas (SPA). The light-emitting elements (LD) may include first light-emitting elements (LD1) overlapping the first area (A1) and second light-emitting elements (LD2) overlapping the second area (A2).

[0107] Referring further to FIG. 7, the display panel (DP) may include a connection layer (CNL). The connection layer (CNL) may include connection electrodes (CNE) respectively arranged in the sub-pixel areas (SPA). The connection electrodes (CNE) may be spaced apart from each other and may be electrically connected to the light-emitting elements (LD), respectively. That is, one connection electrode (CNE) may correspond to one sub-pixel (SP). Each of the connection electrodes (CNE) may be electrically connected to one of the first transmission lines (TML1) and the second transmission lines (TML2) described below.

[0108] Referring further to FIG. 8, the display panel (DP) may include a first metal layer (MTL1). The first metal layer (MTL1) may include first transmission lines (TML1) arranged in a first region (A1). The first transmission lines (TML1) may be electrically connected to first light-emitting elements (LD1) overlapping the first region (A1). The first transmission lines (TML1) may apply a first voltage to the first light-emitting elements (LD1).

[0109] The first transmission lines (TML1) can be electrically connected to the connection electrodes (CNE) arranged in the first region (A1). The first transmission lines (TML1) can be electrically connected to the light-emitting elements (LD) through the connection electrodes (CNE) arranged in the first region (A1). That is, the connection electrodes (CNE) overlapping the first region (A1) can connect the first transmission lines (TML1) and the first light-emitting elements (LD1) to each other.

[0110] In order to apply a first voltage to the first light-emitting elements (LD1) overlapping the first region (A1), the first transmission lines (TML1) are connected to each other and can form a mesh structure.

[0111] The display panel (DP) may further include a first voltage terminal (VT1). The first voltage terminal (VT1) may be arranged in the pad area (PA). The first voltage terminal (VT1) may receive a first voltage and transmit the first voltage to the first transmission lines (TML1). A first power line (PL1) is connected to each of the first voltage terminal (VT1) and the first transmission lines (TML1), and may transmit the first voltage from the first voltage terminal (VT1) to the first transmission lines (TML1).

[0112] Referring further to FIG. 9, the display panel (DP) may include a second metal layer (MTL2). The second metal layer (MTL2) may include second transmission lines (TML2) arranged in a second area (A2). The second transmission lines (TML2) may be electrically connected to second light-emitting elements (LD2) overlapping the second area (A2). The second transmission lines (TML2) may apply a second voltage to the second light-emitting elements (LD2). In this case, the second voltage may be less than or equal to the first voltage.

[0113] The second transmission lines (TML2) can be electrically connected to the connection electrodes (CNE) arranged in the second region (A2). The second transmission lines (TML2) can be electrically connected to the light-emitting elements (LD) through the connection electrodes (CNE) arranged in the second region (A2). That is, the connection electrodes (CNE) overlapping the second region (A2) can connect the second transmission lines (TML2) and the second light-emitting elements (LD2) to each other.

[0114] In order to apply a second voltage to the second light-emitting elements (LD2) overlapping the second region (A2), the second transmission lines (TML2) are connected to each other and can form a mesh structure.

[0115] The second transmission lines (TML2) are insulated from the first transmission lines (TML1), and thus, a second voltage can be applied to the second light-emitting elements (LD2) separately from the first voltage applied to the first light-emitting elements (LD1). In addition, since the first region (A1) and the second region (A2) are distinct from each other, the first transmission lines (TML1) and the second transmission lines (TML2) may not overlap each other on a plane.

[0116] The display panel (DP) may further include a second voltage terminal (VT2). The second voltage terminal (VT2) may be arranged in the pad area (PA). The second voltage terminal (VT2) may receive a second voltage and transmit the second voltage to the second transmission lines (TML2). A second power line (PL2) is connected to each of the second voltage terminal (VT2) and the second transmission lines (TML2), and may transmit the second voltage from the second voltage terminal (VT2) to the second transmission lines (TML2).

[0117] The first voltage can be transmitted only to the first light-emitting elements (LD1) through the first transmission lines (TML1) from the first voltage terminal (VT1), and the second voltage can be transmitted only to the second light-emitting elements (LD2) through the second transmission lines (TML2) from the second voltage terminal (VT2). That is, since the transmission lines (TML1, TML2) of the display panel (DP) are configured as two or more multilayers, voltages can be individually supplied to each layer and applied to the light-emitting elements. As a result, the first voltage or the second voltage can be individually applied to each of the first light-emitting elements (LD1) and the second light-emitting elements (LD2). Through this, separate voltages can be applied to each area within the display area (DA).

[0118] In one embodiment, by designing that separate voltages are applied to each region within the display area (DA), the phenomenon of voltage drop (IR Drop) toward the center of the display area (DA) can be alleviated. When separate voltages are applied to each region within the display area (DA), since the resistance is distributed to each region, the phenomenon of voltage drop due to resistance can be alleviated. Accordingly, the voltage difference applied to both ends of the light emitting element (LD) throughout the display area (DA) may not be large. Accordingly, the voltage difference applied to both ends of the light emitting element (LD) throughout the display area (DA) can be located in a saturation section (a section in which the current does not change even if the voltage changes) in a current graph according to the voltage difference, and the current flowing according to the voltage difference can be output as preset throughout the display area (DA). Since the current is output consistently throughout the display area (DA), the occurrence of a difference in brightness among regions within the display area (DA) can be prevented. Accordingly, the uniformity of each area of ​​the display panel (DP) can be improved, and the display quality of the display panel (DP) can be improved.

[0119] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines II' and II-II' of Fig. 6.

[0120] Referring to FIG. 10, a pixel circuit layer (PCL) may be arranged on a substrate (SUB). The pixel circuit layer (PCL) may include circuit elements (PXC) corresponding to each sub-pixel (SP).

[0121] Anode electrodes (AE) may be arranged on a pixel circuit layer (PCL). The anode electrodes (AE) may be included in each sub-pixel (SP) and connected to corresponding circuit elements (PXC).

[0122] Each of the anode electrodes (AE) can be electrically connected to one of the first transmission lines (TML1) and the second transmission lines (TML2). Each of the anode electrodes (AE) can receive a first voltage or a second voltage through the first transmission lines (TML1) or the second transmission lines (TML2).

[0123] A first insulating layer (INS1) may be disposed on the pixel circuit layer (PCL). The first insulating layer (INS1) may cover the anode electrodes (AE) on the anode electrodes (AE).

[0124] A first metal layer (MTL1) may be disposed on a first insulating layer (INS1). The first metal layer (MTL1) includes a first transmission line (TML1) and may receive a first voltage. The first transmission line (TML1) overlaps with the first sub-pixel (SP1) and may be electrically connected to an anode electrode (AE) included in the first sub-pixel (SP1) through a contact hole penetrating the first insulating layer (INS1). That is, the first transmission lines (TML1) may transmit the first voltage to some of the light-emitting elements (LD), for example, the first light-emitting elements (LD1), through the connection electrodes (CNE).

[0125] A second insulating layer (INS2) may be disposed on the first insulating layer (INS1). The second insulating layer (INS2) may cover the first metal layer (MTL1) on the first metal layer (MTL1).

[0126] A second metal layer (MTL2) may be disposed on a second insulating layer (INS2). The second metal layer (MTL2) may be insulated from the first metal layer (MTL1). The second metal layer (MTL2) includes a second transmission line (TML2) and may receive a second voltage applied separately from a first voltage. The second transmission line (TML2) overlaps the second sub-pixel (SP2) and may be electrically connected to an anode electrode (AE) included in the second sub-pixel (SP2) through a contact hole penetrating the first insulating layer (INS1) and the second insulating layer (INS2). That is, the second transmission lines (TML2) may transmit the second voltage to the remaining light-emitting elements (LD) among the light-emitting elements (LD), for example, the second light-emitting elements (LD2), through the connection electrodes (CNE).

[0127] In Fig. 10, the second metal layer (MTL2) is described as being disposed on the first metal layer (MTL1), but this is exemplary, and the stacking order of the first metal layer (MTL1) and the second metal layer (MTL2) may be different in embodiments.

[0128] A third insulating layer (INS3) may be disposed on the second insulating layer (INS2). The third insulating layer (INS3) may cover the second metal layer (MTL2) on the second metal layer (MTL2).

[0129] A connection layer (CNL) may be disposed on the third insulating layer (INS3). The connection layer (CNL) may be individually connected to the first metal layer (MTL1) and the second metal layer (MTL2). Specifically, the connection layer (CNL) may include connection electrodes (CNE) that are spaced apart from each other. The connection electrodes (CNE) may overlap the sub-pixels (SP), respectively. Each of the connection electrodes (CNE) may be electrically connected to one of the first transmission line (TML1) and the second transmission line (TML2).

[0130] Bonding electrodes (BDE) may be disposed on the connection layer (CNL). Light-emitting elements (LD) may be disposed on the bonding electrodes (BDE). The light-emitting elements (LD) may be included in each of the sub-pixels (SP) and may be electrically connected to the connection electrodes (CNE) of the connection layer (CNL) through the bonding electrodes (BDE). Specifically, the first light-emitting element (LD1) may be included in the first sub-pixel (SP1), and the second light-emitting element (LD2) may be included in the second sub-pixel (SP2).

[0131] Cathode electrodes (CE) may be respectively arranged on the light-emitting elements (LD). The cathode electrodes (CE) may be directly connected to the light-emitting elements (LD). At this time, the cathode electrodes (CE) may be electrically connected to each other as a common electrode.

[0132] Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of Fig. 10.

[0133] Referring to Fig. 11, a pixel circuit layer (PCL) may be arranged on a substrate (SUB). Anode electrodes (AE) may be arranged on the pixel circuit layer (PCL). The anode electrodes (AE) may be included in each of the sub-pixels (SP') and connected to corresponding circuit elements (PXC).

[0134] Bonding electrodes (BDE) may be respectively disposed on the anode electrodes (AE). Light-emitting elements (LD) may be respectively disposed on the bonding electrodes (BDE). The light-emitting elements (LD) may overlap with the sub-pixels (SP'), and may be electrically connected to the anode electrodes (AE) via the bonding electrodes (BDE). At this time, the anode electrodes (AE) may be electrically connected to each other as a common electrode.

[0135] A connection layer (CNL') may be disposed on the light emitting elements (LD). The connection layer (CNL') includes connection electrodes (CNE'), and the connection electrodes (CNE') may be electrically connected to the light emitting elements (LD), respectively.

[0136] A first insulating layer (INS1) may be disposed on the connection layer (CNL'). The first insulating layer (INS1) may cover the connection layer (CNL') on the connection layer (CNL').

[0137] A first metal layer (MTL1') may be disposed on a first insulating layer (INS1). The first metal layer (MTL1') includes a first transmission line (TML1') and may receive a first voltage. The first transmission line (TML1') overlaps the first sub-pixel (SP1') and may be electrically connected to a connection electrode (CNE') of a connection layer (CNL') overlapping the first sub-pixel (SP1') through a contact hole penetrating the first insulating layer (INS1). That is, the first transmission lines (TML1') may transmit the first voltage to some of the light-emitting elements (LD), for example, the first light-emitting elements (LD1), through the connection electrodes (CNE').

[0138] A second insulating layer (INS2) may be disposed on the first insulating layer (INS1). The second insulating layer (INS2) may cover the first metal layer (MTL1') on the first metal layer (MTL1').

[0139] A second metal layer (MTL2') may be disposed on a second insulating layer (INS2). The second metal layer (MTL2') may be insulated from the first metal layer (MTL1'). The second metal layer (MTL2') includes a second transmission line (TML2') and may receive a second voltage applied separately from a first voltage. The second transmission line (TML2') overlaps the second sub-pixel (SP2') and may be electrically connected to a connection electrode (CNE') of a connection layer (CNL') overlapping the second sub-pixel (SP2') through a contact hole penetrating the first insulating layer (INS1) and the second insulating layer (INS2). That is, the second transmission lines (TML2') may transmit the second voltage to the remaining light-emitting elements among the light-emitting elements (LD), for example, the second light-emitting elements (LD2), through the connection electrodes (CNE').

[0140] In Fig. 11, the second metal layer (MTL2') is described as being disposed on the first metal layer (MTL1'), but this is exemplary, and the stacking order of the first metal layer (MTL1') and the second metal layer (MTL2') may be different in embodiments.

[0141] A third insulating layer (INS3) may be disposed on the second insulating layer (INS2). The third insulating layer (INS3) may cover the second metal layer (MTL2') on the second metal layer (MTL2').

[0142] Cathode electrodes (CE) may be disposed on the third insulating layer (INS3). Each of the cathode electrodes (CE) may be electrically connected to one of the first metal layer (MTL1') and the second metal layer (MTL2'). For example, the cathode electrode (CE) included in the first sub-pixel (SP1') may be electrically connected to the first transmission line (TML1') of the first metal layer (MTL1'), and the cathode electrode (CE) included in the second sub-pixel (SP2') may be electrically connected to the second transmission line (TML2') of the second metal layer (MTL2'). Each of the cathode electrodes (CE) may receive the first voltage or the second voltage through the first transmission lines (TML1') or the second transmission lines (TML2').

[0143] Fig. 12 is a schematic plan view of another embodiment of the display panel of Fig. 3. Fig. 13 is a schematic plan view of the connecting layer of Fig. 12. Fig. 14 is a schematic plan view of the first metal layer of Fig. 12. Fig. 15 is a schematic plan view of the second metal layer of Fig. 12. Fig. 16 is a schematic plan view of the third metal layer of Fig. 12.

[0144] Referring to FIG. 12, the display area DA includes sub-pixels SP''. In one embodiment, the sub-pixels SP'' are arranged in a pentile shape in a zigzag shape along a fourth direction DR4 between the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 and a fifth direction DR5 orthogonal to the fourth direction DR4. TM ) structure. Sub-pixels (SP'') can be arranged in each sub-pixel area (SPA'').

[0145] The sub-pixels (SP'') may include first to fourth sub-pixels (SP1'' to SP4''). The first to fourth sub-pixels (SP1'' to SP4'') may constitute one pixel (PXL). In addition, the first to fourth sub-pixels (SP1'' to SP4'') may be arranged in the first to fourth sub-pixel areas (SPA1'' to SPA4''), respectively.

[0146] In a display panel (DP), a display area (DA) may include a first area (A1), a second area (A2), and a third area (A3). The first sub-pixel areas (SPA1'') may constitute the first area (A1). The second and fourth sub-pixel areas (SPA2'', SPA4'') may constitute the second area (A2). The third sub-pixel areas (SPA3'') may constitute the third area (A3).

[0147] The first to fourth sub-pixels (SP1'' to SP4'') may each include first to fourth light-emitting elements (LD1'' to LD4'') that generate and emit light. That is, the first to fourth light-emitting elements (LD1'' to LD4'') may be arranged in the first to fourth sub-pixel areas (SPA1'' to SPA4''), respectively. Accordingly, the first light-emitting elements (LD1'') may be arranged in the first area (A1), the second and fourth light-emitting elements (LD2'', LD4'') may be arranged in the second area (A2), and the third light-emitting elements (LD3'') may be arranged in the third area (A3).

[0148] The first light-emitting elements (LD1'') overlap the first region (A1) and can emit light of a first color. The second and fourth light-emitting elements (LD2'', LD4'') overlap the second region (A2) and can emit light of a second color different from the first color. The third light-emitting elements (LD3'') overlap the third region (A3) and can emit light of a third color different from the first and second colors. In one embodiment, the first color may be red, the second color may be green, and the third color may be blue. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0149] Referring further to FIG. 13, the display panel (DP) may include a connection layer (CNL''). The connection layer (CNL'') may include connection electrodes (CNE'') arranged in the first to fourth sub-pixel areas (SPA1'' to SPA4''), respectively. The connection electrodes (CNE'') may be spaced apart from each other and may be electrically connected to the first to fourth light-emitting elements (LD1'' to LD4''), respectively. That is, one connection electrode (CNE'') may correspond to one sub-pixel (SP''). Each of the connection electrodes (CNE'') may be electrically connected to one of the first to third transmission lines (TML1'' to TML3'') described below.

[0150] Referring further to FIG. 14, the display panel (DP'') may include a first metal layer (MTL1''). The first metal layer (MTL1'') may include first transmission lines (TML1'') overlapping the first region (A1). The first transmission lines (TML1'') may be electrically connected to the first light-emitting elements (LD1'') arranged in the first region (A1). The first transmission lines (TML1'') may apply a first voltage to the first light-emitting elements (LD1'').

[0151] The first transmission lines (TML1'') can be electrically connected to the connection electrodes (CNE'') arranged in the first region (A1). The first transmission lines (TML1'') can be electrically connected to the first light-emitting elements (LD1'') through the connection electrodes (CNE'') arranged in the first region (A1). That is, the connection electrodes (CNE'') overlapping the first region (A1) can connect the first transmission lines (TML1'') and the first light-emitting elements (LD1'') to each other.

[0152] In order to apply a first voltage to the entire first light-emitting elements (LD1'') overlapping the first region (A1), the first transmission lines (TML1'') are connected to each other and can form a mesh structure.

[0153] The display panel (DP) may further include a first voltage terminal (VT1). The first voltage terminal (VT1) may be arranged in the pad area (PA). The first voltage terminal (VT1) may receive a first voltage and transmit the first voltage to the first transmission lines (TML1''). A first power line (PL1) is connected to each of the first voltage terminal (VT1) and the first transmission lines (TML1''), and may transmit the first voltage from the first voltage terminal (VT1) to the first transmission lines (TML1'').

[0154] Referring further to FIG. 15, the display panel (DP'') may include a second metal layer (MTL2''). The second metal layer (MTL2'') may include second transmission lines (TML2'') overlapping the second region (A2). The second transmission lines (TML2'') may be electrically connected to the second and fourth light-emitting elements (LD2'', LD4'') arranged in the second region (A2). The second transmission lines (TML2'') may apply a second voltage to the second and fourth light-emitting elements (LD2'', LD4'').

[0155] The second transmission lines (TML2'') can be electrically connected to the connection electrodes (CNE'') arranged in the second region (A2). The second transmission lines (TML2'') can be electrically connected to the second and fourth light-emitting elements (LD2'', LD4'') through the connection electrodes (CNE'') arranged in the second region (A2). That is, the connection electrodes (CNE'') overlapping with the second region (A2) can connect the second transmission lines (TML2'') and the second and fourth light-emitting elements (LD2'', LD4'') to each other.

[0156] In order to apply a second voltage to the second and fourth light-emitting elements (LD2'', LD4'') overlapping the second region (A2), the second transmission lines (TML2'') are connected to each other and can form a mesh structure.

[0157] The second transmission lines (TML2'') are insulated from the first transmission lines (TML1''), so that the second voltage can be applied to the second and fourth light-emitting elements (LD2'', LD4'') separately from the first voltage applied to the first light-emitting elements (LD1'').

[0158] The display panel (DP) may further include a second voltage terminal (VT2). The second voltage terminal (VT2) may be arranged in the pad area (PA). The second voltage terminal (VT2) may receive a second voltage and transmit the second voltage to the second transmission lines (TML2''). The second power line (PL2) is connected to each of the second voltage terminal (VT2) and the second transmission lines (TML2''), and may transmit the second voltage from the second voltage terminal (VT2) to the second transmission lines (TML2'').

[0159] Referring further to FIG. 16, the display panel (DP'') may include a third metal layer (MTL3''). The third metal layer (MTL3'') may include third transmission lines (TML3'') overlapping the third region (A3). The third transmission lines (TML3'') may be electrically connected to third light-emitting elements (LD3'') arranged in the third region (A3). The third transmission lines (TML3'') may apply a third voltage to the third light-emitting elements (LD3'').

[0160] The third transmission lines (TML3'') can be electrically connected to the connection electrodes (CNE'') arranged in the third region (A3). The third transmission lines (TML3'') can be electrically connected to the third light-emitting elements (LD3'') through the connection electrodes (CNE'') arranged in the third region (A3). That is, the connection electrodes (CNE'') overlapping with the third region (A3) can connect the third transmission lines (TML3'') and the third light-emitting elements (LD3'') to each other.

[0161] In order to apply a third voltage to the third light-emitting elements (LD3'') overlapping the third region (A3), the third transmission lines (TML3'') are connected to each other and can form a mesh structure.

[0162] The third transmission lines (TML3'') are insulated from the first and second transmission lines (TML1'', TML2''), and thus, the third voltage can be applied to the third light-emitting elements (LD3'') separately from the first and second voltages applied to the first, second, and fourth light-emitting elements (LD1'', LD2'', LD4'').

[0163] The display panel (DP'') may further include a third voltage terminal (VT3). The third voltage terminal (VT3) may be arranged in the pad area (PA). The third voltage terminal (VT3) may receive a third voltage and transmit it to third transmission lines (TML3''). A third power line (PL3) is connected to each of the third voltage terminal (VT3) and the third transmission lines (TML3''), and may transmit the third voltage from the third voltage terminal (VT3) to the third transmission lines (TML3'').

[0164] The first voltage can be transmitted only to the first light-emitting elements (LD1'') through the first transmission lines (TML1'') from the first voltage terminal (VT1), the second voltage can be transmitted only to the second and fourth light-emitting elements (LD2'', LD4'') through the second transmission lines (TML2'') from the second voltage terminal (VT2), and the third voltage can be transmitted only to the third light-emitting elements (LD3'') through the third transmission lines (TML3'') from the third voltage terminal (VT3).

[0165] At this time, the third voltage may be greater than the second voltage, and the second voltage may be greater than the first voltage. Specifically, since the forward voltage varies depending on the wavelength of light emitted by each of the light-emitting elements, different voltages may be applied to the light-emitting elements according to the corresponding forward voltage. The forward voltage of the third light-emitting elements (LD3'') emitting blue light having the shortest wavelength may be the largest, and the forward voltage of the first light-emitting elements (LD1'') emitting red light having the longest wavelength may be the smallest. Accordingly, the third voltage applied to the third light-emitting elements (LD3'') having the largest forward voltage may be the largest, and the first voltage applied to the first light-emitting elements (LD1'') having the smallest forward voltage may be the smallest. The second voltage applied to the second and fourth light-emitting elements (LD2'', LD4'') may be smaller than the third voltage and larger than the first voltage.

[0166] Since the first to third transmission lines (TML3'') of the display panel (DP'') are configured in multiple layers, voltages can be individually supplied to each layer and applied to the light-emitting elements. That is, the first, second, and third voltages can be individually applied to the first, second, and third light-emitting elements (LD3''). Through this, separate voltages can be applied to each area within the display area (DA).

[0167] In one embodiment, by designing that a separate voltage is applied to each region according to the color of light emitted within the display area (DA), the phenomenon of voltage dropping (IR Drop) toward the center of the display area (DA) can be alleviated, thereby preventing a difference in brightness between regions within the display area (DA). Accordingly, uniformity between regions of the display panel (DP'') can be improved, and the display quality of the display panel (DP'') can be improved.

[0168] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines III-III', IV-IV', and VV' of Figure 12.

[0169] Referring to Fig. 17, a pixel circuit layer (PCL) may be disposed on a substrate (SUB). Anode electrodes (AE) may be disposed on the pixel circuit layer (PCL). The anode electrodes (AE) may be included in each of the sub-pixels (SP'') and may be connected to corresponding circuit elements (PXC).

[0170] Each of the anode electrodes (AE) can be electrically connected to one of the first, second, and third transmission lines (TML3''). Each of the anode electrodes (AE) can receive the first, second, or third voltage via the first, second, or third transmission lines (TML3'').

[0171] A first insulating layer (INS1) may be disposed on the pixel circuit layer (PCL). The first insulating layer (INS1) may cover the anode electrodes (AE) on the anode electrodes (AE).

[0172] A first metal layer (MTL1'') may be disposed on a first insulating layer (INS1). The first metal layer (MTL1'') includes a first transmission line (TML1'') and may receive a first voltage. The first transmission line (TML1'') overlaps with the first sub-pixel (SP1'') and may be electrically connected to an anode electrode (AE) included in the first sub-pixel (SP1'') through a contact hole penetrating the first insulating layer (INS1). That is, the first transmission lines (TML1'') may transmit the first voltage to some of the light-emitting elements (LD''), for example, the first light-emitting elements (LD1''), through the connection electrodes (CNE'').

[0173] A second insulating layer (INS2) may be disposed on the first insulating layer (INS1). The second insulating layer (INS2) may cover the first metal layer (MTL1'') on the first metal layer (MTL1'').

[0174] A second metal layer (MTL2'') may be disposed on a second insulating layer (INS2). The second metal layer (MTL2'') may be insulated from the first metal layer (MTL1''). The second metal layer (MTL2'') includes a second transmission line (TML2'') and may receive a second voltage applied separately from a first voltage. The second transmission line (TML2'') overlaps with a second sub-pixel (SP2'') and may be electrically connected to an anode electrode (AE) included in the second sub-pixel (SP2'') through a contact hole penetrating the first insulating layer (INS1) and the second insulating layer (INS2). That is, the second transmission lines (TML2'') can transmit the second voltage to some of the light-emitting elements (LD'') excluding the first light-emitting elements (LD1''), for example, the second light-emitting elements (LD2''), through the connection electrodes (CNE'').

[0175] A third insulating layer (INS3) may be disposed on the second insulating layer (INS2). The third insulating layer (INS3) may cover the second metal layer (MTL2'') on the second metal layer (MTL2'').

[0176] A third metal layer (MTL3'') may be disposed on a third insulating layer (INS3). The third metal layer (MTL3'') may be insulated from the first metal layer (MTL1'') and the second metal layer (MTL2''). The third metal layer (MTL3'') includes a third transmission line (TML3'') and may receive a third voltage that is applied separately from the first voltage and the second voltage. The third transmission line (TML3'') overlaps with the third sub-pixel (SP3'') and may be electrically connected to the anode electrode (AE) included in the third sub-pixel (SP3'') through a contact hole penetrating the first to third insulating layers (INS1 to INS3). That is, the third transmission lines (TML3'') can transmit the third voltage to the remaining light-emitting elements (LD''), for example, the third light-emitting elements (LD3''), excluding the first and second light-emitting elements (LD1'', LD2'') among the light-emitting elements (LD''), through the connection electrodes (CNE'').

[0177] In Fig. 17, the first to third metal layers (MTL1'' to MTL3'') are described as being sequentially arranged, but this is exemplary, and the stacking order of the first to third metal layers (MTL1'' to MTL3'') may vary in embodiments.

[0178] A fourth insulating layer (INS4) may be disposed on the third insulating layer (INS3). The fourth insulating layer (INS4) may cover the third metal layer (MTL3'') on the third metal layer (MTL3'').

[0179] A connection layer (CNL'') may be disposed on the fourth insulating layer (INS4). The connection layer (CNL'') may be individually connected to the first to third metal layers (MTL1'' to MTL3''), respectively. The connection layer (CNL'') may include connection electrodes (CNE'') that are spaced apart from each other. The connection electrodes (CNE'') may overlap the first to third sub-pixels (SP1'' to SP3''), respectively. Each of the connection electrodes (CNE'') may be electrically connected to one of the first to third transmission lines (TML1'' to TML3'').

[0180] Bonding electrodes (BDE) may be disposed on the connection layer (CNL''). First to third light-emitting elements (LD1'' to LD3'') may be disposed on the bonding electrodes (BDE). The first to third light-emitting elements (LD1'' to LD3'') are included in the first to third sub-pixels (SP1'' to SP3''), respectively, and may be electrically connected to the connection electrodes (CNE'') of the connection layer (CNL'') via the bonding electrodes (BDE).

[0181] Cathode electrodes (CE) may be respectively arranged on the light-emitting elements (LD''). The cathode electrodes (CE) may be directly connected to the light-emitting elements (LD''). At this time, the cathode electrodes (CE) may be electrically connected to each other as a common electrode.

[0182] Figure 18 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a display system.

[0183] Referring to FIG. 18, the display system (1000) may include a processor (1100) and a display device (1200).

[0184] 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.

[0185] 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.

[0186] 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.

[0187] Figures 19 to 22 are perspective views showing application examples of the display system of Figure 18.

[0188] Referring to FIG. 19, the display system (1000) of FIG. 18 can be applied to a smart watch (2000) including a display unit (2100) and a strap unit (2200).

[0189] 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.

[0190] Referring to FIG. 20, the display system (1000) of FIG. 18 may be applied to an automotive display system (3000). Here, the automotive display system (3000) may include a computing system provided inside and / or outside a vehicle to provide image data.

[0191] 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.

[0192] Referring to FIG. 21, the display system (1000) of FIG. 18 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.

[0193] 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).

[0194] 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.

[0195] 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.

[0196] 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).

[0197] Referring to FIG. 22, the display system (1000) of FIG. 18 can be applied to a head-mounted display device (5000).

[0198] 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.

[0199] 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.

[0200] The display device storage case (5200) can store the display system (1000) and / or the display device (1200).

[0201] While the technical concept of the present invention has been specifically described in terms of the aforementioned embodiments, it should be noted that the embodiments are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications are possible within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention.

[0202] The scope of the present invention is not limited to the detailed description in the specification, but should be defined by the claims. All modifications or variations derived from the meaning and scope of the claims, and any equivalent concepts thereof, should be construed as being included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A substrate including a first region and a second region that does not overlap with the first region; A plurality of light-emitting elements arranged on the substrate and emitting light; First transmission lines for applying a first voltage to light-emitting elements overlapping the first region among the plurality of light-emitting elements; Second transmission lines that are insulated from the first transmission lines and apply a second voltage to light-emitting elements among the plurality of light-emitting elements that overlap the second region; and A display device, comprising a connecting layer that connects each of the first and second transmission lines and each of the plurality of light-emitting elements to each other.

2. A display device according to claim 1, wherein the first region is located in the central portion of the substrate, and the second region surrounds the first region.

3. In the first paragraph, the first transmission lines are connected to each other and form a first mesh structure, A display device in which the above second transmission lines are connected to each other and form a second mesh structure.

4. In paragraph 1, A first voltage terminal that receives the first voltage and transmits the first voltage to the first transmission lines; and A display device further comprising a second voltage terminal that receives the second voltage and transmits the second voltage to the second transmission lines.

5. In the first paragraph, the connecting layer is A display device comprising a plurality of interconnected electrodes spaced apart from each other.

6. A display device in the fifth paragraph, wherein the plurality of connecting electrodes are electrically connected to the plurality of light-emitting elements, respectively.

7. A display device according to claim 6, wherein each of the plurality of connecting electrodes is electrically connected to one of the first transmission lines and the second transmission lines.

8. A display device according to claim 5, wherein the substrate further includes a third region that does not overlap the first and second regions.

9. In paragraph 8, the plurality of light-emitting elements, First light-emitting elements emitting light of a first color and overlapping the first region; Second light-emitting elements that emit light of a second color different from the first color and overlap with the second region; and A display device comprising third light-emitting elements that emit light of a third color different from the first and second colors and overlap with the third region.

10. In paragraph 9, A display device further comprising third transmission lines that are insulated from the first and second transmission lines and apply a third voltage to the third light-emitting elements among the plurality of light-emitting elements.

11. In the 10th paragraph, if the first color is red, the second color is green, and the third color is blue, A display device wherein the third voltage is greater than each of the first and second voltages, and the second voltage is greater than the first voltage.

12. A display device according to claim 10, wherein each of the plurality of connecting electrodes is electrically connected to one of the first transmission lines, the second transmission lines, and the third transmission lines.

13. In paragraph 10, A display device further comprising a third voltage terminal that receives the third voltage and transmits the third voltage to the third transmission lines.

14. Substrate; A pixel circuit layer disposed on the above substrate; A first insulating layer disposed on the pixel circuit layer; A first metal layer disposed on the first insulating layer and receiving a first voltage; A second insulating layer disposed on the first metal layer; A second metal layer disposed on the second insulating layer, insulated from the first metal layer, and receiving a second voltage applied separately from the first voltage; A third insulating layer disposed on the second metal layer; A connecting layer disposed on the third insulating layer and electrically connected to each of the first metal layer and the second metal layer; and A display device comprising light-emitting elements arranged on the connecting layer and electrically connected to the connecting layer.

15. In the 14th paragraph, the first metal layer includes first transmission lines that are connected to each other, A display device, wherein the second metal layer includes second transmission lines connected to each other.

16. In the 15th paragraph, the connecting layer is A display device comprising a plurality of connecting electrodes spaced apart from each other and each electrically connected to one of the first transmission lines and the second transmission lines.

17. In the 16th paragraph, the first transmission lines transmit the first voltage to some of the light emitting elements through the connecting electrodes, respectively, A display device, wherein the second transmission lines transmit the second voltage to the remaining light-emitting elements among the light-emitting elements through the connecting electrodes, respectively.

18. In paragraph 16, Further comprising anode electrodes disposed between the pixel circuit layer and the first insulating layer; A display device, wherein each of the anode electrodes is electrically connected to one of the first transmission lines and the second transmission lines.

19. Substrate; A pixel circuit layer disposed on the above substrate; Light-emitting elements arranged on the pixel circuit layer; A connecting layer disposed on the light-emitting elements and electrically connected to the light-emitting elements; A first insulating layer disposed on the above connecting layer; A first metal layer disposed on the first insulating layer, electrically connected to the connecting layer, and receiving a first voltage; A second insulating layer disposed on the first metal layer; and A display device comprising a second metal layer disposed on the second insulating layer, electrically connected to the connecting layer, insulated from the first metal layer, and receiving a second voltage applied separately from the first voltage.

20. In paragraph 19, Further comprising cathode electrodes disposed on the second metal layer; A display device, wherein each of the cathode electrodes is electrically connected to one of the first metal layer and the second metal layer.

21. Display device; and A power supply configured to supply power to the above display device; The above display device, A substrate comprising a first region and a second region that does not overlap with the first region; A plurality of light-emitting elements arranged on the substrate and emitting light; First transmission lines for applying a first voltage to light-emitting elements overlapping the first region among the plurality of light-emitting elements; Second transmission lines that are insulated from the first transmission lines and apply a second voltage to light-emitting elements among the plurality of light-emitting elements that overlap the second region; and An electronic device comprising a connecting layer connecting each of the first and second transmission lines and each of the plurality of light-emitting elements to each other.

Images