Display panel and electronic device comprising same

Abstract

An embodiment of the present invention provides a display panel comprising: a support layer including a lower elastomer layer and a stretch control layer disposed on the lower elastomer layer; and a display layer, wherein the stretch control layer includes an auxetic structure including a first sub-unit structure and a second sub-unit structure having a smaller planar area than the first sub-unit structure, the plurality of first sub-unit structures are continuously arranged in a first row along a first direction, the plurality of second sub-unit structures are continuously arranged in a second row along the first direction, and the first row and the second row are repeatedly arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction.

Description

Display panel and electronic device including the same

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

[0002] In general, as display panels that visually display electrical signals advance, various display panels with excellent characteristics such as thinness, lightness, and low power consumption, as well as electronic devices containing them, are being introduced. For example, research and development is actively underway on display panels of various structures, such as flexible display panels that can be folded or rolled into a roll shape, and stretchable display panels, as well as electronic devices containing them.

[0003] Embodiments of the present invention aim to provide a display panel that realizes an image of excellent quality even during stretching, and an electronic device including the same. However, these objectives are exemplary and do not limit the scope of the present invention.

[0004] One embodiment of the present invention provides a display panel comprising: a support layer including a lower elastomer layer and a stretch control layer disposed on the lower elastomer layer, and a planar display area and a non-display area surrounding the display area; and a display layer including a pixel circuit disposed on the display area of ​​the support layer and a light-emitting element electrically connected to the pixel circuit, wherein the stretch control layer comprises an auxetic structure including a first sub-unit structure and a second sub-unit structure having a planar area smaller than that of the first sub-unit structure, wherein the first sub-unit structure is composed of a plurality of units and is arranged continuously in a first row along a first direction, and the second sub-unit structure is composed of a plurality of units and is arranged continuously in a second row along the first direction, and the first row and the second row are repeatedly arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0005] In one embodiment, the aggetic structure may have a negative Poisson ratio.

[0006] In one embodiment, the first sub-unit structure and the second sub-unit structure may each have a concave polygonal shape.

[0007] In one embodiment, the first sub-unit structure and the second sub-unit structure may each have a re-entrant shape.

[0008] In one embodiment, the first sub-unit structure and the second sub-unit structure may be arranged staggered relative to each other with respect to the first direction.

[0009] In one embodiment, the first sub-unit structure includes a first horizontal length along a first direction and a first vertical length along a second direction, and the second sub-unit structure includes a second horizontal length along a first direction and a second vertical length along a second direction, and the first vertical length may be larger than the second vertical length.

[0010] In one embodiment, the first horizontal length may be the same as the second horizontal length.

[0011] In one embodiment, the second sub-unit structure may include a first divided area and a second divided area that are symmetrical to each other with respect to a virtual centerline positioned at the center of the second sub-unit structure and extend along the second direction.

[0012] In one embodiment, the sum of the first vertical length and the length of the virtual centerline may be equal to the first horizontal length.

[0013] In one embodiment, the aggetic structure has a structure in which unit structures composed of a combination of the first sub-unit structure and the second sub-unit structure are repeatedly arranged, and the unit structure may include: the first sub-unit structure placed in the nth row and the mth column; the second partition area of ​​the second sub-unit structure placed in the n+1th row and the m-1th column; and the first partition area of ​​the second sub-unit structure placed in the n+1th row and the m+1th column.

[0014] In one embodiment, the unit structure has a third horizontal length along the first direction and a third vertical length along the second direction, and the third horizontal length and the third vertical length may be in a 1:1 ratio.

[0015] In one embodiment, the aggetic structure may include a plurality of openings and a boundary pattern forming a boundary between the plurality of openings.

[0016] In one embodiment, the modulus of the boundary pattern of the aggetic structure may be 3 GPa or more.

[0017] In one embodiment, the plurality of openings may be filled with the lower elastomer layer.

[0018] In one embodiment, the light-emitting element may be arranged in a planar manner to overlap with the center of each of the plurality of openings.

[0019] In one embodiment, the plurality of openings includes a first opening and a second opening having different planar areas, and the first sub-unit structure may have a closed-line shape including the first opening, and the second sub-unit structure may have a closed-line shape including the second opening.

[0020] In one embodiment, the light-emitting element may be arranged to overlap with the first opening in a planar manner.

[0021] In one embodiment, the display area includes: a pixel area where the light-emitting element is disposed; and a connection area where a connecting wire connecting the adjacently disposed pixel circuits is disposed, surrounding the pixel area; and the connecting wire may be extendable.

[0022] In one embodiment, on a plane, the pixel region overlaps with the first opening, and the connecting region may overlap with the second opening and a portion of the first opening excluding the pixel region.

[0023] In one embodiment, the device further comprises a gate driving circuit disposed on a non-display area of ​​the support layer, transmitting a gate signal to the pixel circuit, and including a plurality of stages, wherein each of the plurality of stages of the gate driving circuit may be disposed to overlap with each of the plurality of openings.

[0024] In one embodiment, the plurality of openings may include a dummy opening positioned outside the gate driving circuit.

[0025] In one embodiment, it may further include an upper elastomer layer disposed on the display layer and covering the light-emitting element.

[0026] In one embodiment, the support layer may further include an auxiliary elastomer layer interposed between the stretch control layer and the display layer.

[0027] Another embodiment of the present invention comprises: a display panel; and a lower cover that forms the exterior of the display panel and has an opening that exposes a portion of the display panel to the front surface of an electronic device; wherein the display panel comprises a lower elastomer layer and a stretch control layer disposed on the lower elastomer layer, and a support layer comprising a planar display area and a non-display area surrounding the display area; The present invention provides an electronic device comprising: a display layer including a pixel circuit disposed on a display area of ​​the support layer and a light-emitting element electrically connected to the pixel circuit; wherein the stretch control layer comprises an auxetic structure including a first sub-unit structure and a second sub-unit structure having a planar area smaller than that of the first sub-unit structure, wherein the first sub-unit structure is composed of a plurality and is arranged continuously in a first row along a first direction, and the second sub-unit structure is composed of a plurality and is arranged continuously in a second row along the first direction, and the first row and the second row are repeatedly arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0028] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a display panel and an electronic device capable of realizing an image of excellent quality even during stretching can be provided. The aforementioned effects are exemplary, and the effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above.

[0029] FIG. 1a is a schematic perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 1b is a block diagram schematically illustrating an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 3a is a perspective view showing a display panel according to a comparative example in a state of being extended in the first direction.

[0033] FIG. 3b is a perspective view showing a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention extended in a first direction.

[0034] FIG. 3c is a perspective view showing a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention extended in a first direction and in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0035] FIG. 4 is a schematic plan view of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 5a is a schematic plan view showing the arrangement of pixels before stretching of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIGS. 5B and FIGS. 5C are plan views schematically showing the arrangement of pixels after stretching of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 6a is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a part of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 6b is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a part of a display panel according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIGS. 7a to 7c are each equivalent circuit diagrams of pixels of a display panel according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIGS. 8a and FIGS. 8b are cross-sectional views schematically showing a light-emitting element of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 9 is a schematic plan view showing the stretching control layer of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 10 is an enlarged plan view schematically showing a part of the stretching control layer of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 11 is a schematic plan view of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIGS. 13a to 13g are schematic perspective views illustrating embodiments of an electronic device including a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] The present invention is capable of various modifications and may have various embodiments; specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. The effects and features of the present invention, and the methods for achieving them, will become clear by referring to the embodiments described below in detail together with the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below but can be implemented in various forms.

[0048] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. When describing with reference to the drawings, identical or corresponding components are given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0049] In the following embodiments, terms such as first, second, etc. are used not in a limiting sense, but for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another component.

[0050] In the following examples, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0051] In the following embodiments, terms such as "include" or "have" mean that the features or components described in the specification are present, and do not preclude the possibility that one or more other features or components may be added.

[0052] In the following embodiments, when a part such as a film, region, or component is described as being on or above another part, it includes not only cases where it is directly on top of another part, but also cases where another film, region, or component is interposed in between.

[0053] In the drawings, the size of components may be exaggerated or reduced for convenience of explanation. For example, the size and thickness of each component shown in the drawings are depicted arbitrarily for convenience of explanation, so the present invention is not necessarily limited to what is illustrated.

[0054] Where an embodiment can be implemented differently, a specific process sequence may be performed differently from the order described. For example, two processes described consecutively may be performed substantially simultaneously or proceed in the reverse order of the description.

[0055] In the following embodiments, when it is stated that a membrane, region, component, etc. is connected, it includes not only cases where the membrane, region, or component is directly connected, but also cases where other membranes, regions, or components are interposed between them to form an indirect connection. For example, when it is stated in this specification that a membrane, region, component, etc. is electrically connected, it includes not only cases where the membrane, region, or component, etc. are directly electrically connected, but also cases where other membranes, regions, or components are interposed between them to form an indirect electrical connection.

[0056] In light of the overall disclosure of this specification, those skilled in the art will understand that each suitable feature belonging to the various embodiments of this disclosure may be combined or combined with one another in part or wholly, and may be technically interconnected and operated in various suitable ways, and that, unless otherwise specified or suggested, each embodiment may be implemented in any suitable way, either independently or in combination with one another.

[0057] FIG. 1a is a schematic perspective view of an electronic device (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 1b is a schematic block diagram of an electronic device (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 1a and FIG. 1b, an electronic device (1) having a display panel (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention is a device for displaying video or still images, and can be used as a display screen for various products such as televisions, laptops, monitors, billboards, and Internet of Things (IOT) devices, as well as portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, smartphones, tablet personal computers, mobile communication terminals, electronic notebooks, e-books, PMPs (portable multimedia players), navigation devices, and UMPCs (Ultra Mobile PCs). An electronic device (1) according to one embodiment can be used in wearable devices such as smart watches, watch phones, glasses-type displays, and head-mounted displays (HMDs). An electronic device (1) according to one embodiment can be used as a center information display (CID) placed on the center fascia or dashboard of a vehicle, a room mirror display replacing the side mirror of a vehicle, and a display placed on the back of the front seat for entertainment for the rear seat of a vehicle.

[0059] FIG. 1a illustrates an electronic device (1) according to one embodiment being used as a smartphone. The electronic device (1) may include a display panel (10) and a lower cover (90) disposed below the display panel (10). The electronic device (1) may include a cover window covering the upper surface of the display panel (10).

[0060] The lower cover (90) forms the exterior of the electronic device (1) and may have an opening that exposes a portion of the display panel (10) on the front surface of the electronic device (1). The lower cover (90) may be assembled with the display panel (10) in a shape where the side corresponding to the display panel (10) is open. The lower cover (90) forms the exterior of the lower surface of the electronic device (1), and a display circuit board, components, a main circuit board, a battery, a driver, etc. may be placed between the display panel (10) and the lower cover (90). The lower cover (90) may include plastic, metal, or both plastic and metal.

[0061] The electronic device (1) may include a main processor (510), a wireless communication unit (520), an input unit (530), a sensor unit (540), an output unit (550), an interface unit (560), a memory (570), and / or a power supply unit (580).

[0062] The main processor (510) can control all functions of the electronic device (1). For example, the main processor (510) can output digital video data to a data driver through a display circuit board so that the display panel (10) displays an image. The main processor (510) can receive detection data from a touch sensor driver. The main processor (510) can determine whether a user touches based on the detection data and execute an action corresponding to the user's direct touch or proximity touch. The main processor (510) may be an application processor, a central processing unit (CPU), or a system chip composed of an integrated circuit (IC).

[0063] The camera device (531) processes image frames, such as still images or video, obtained by an image sensor in camera mode and outputs them to the main processor (510). The camera device (531) may include at least one of a camera sensor (e.g., a charge-coupled device (CCD), a Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (CMOS), etc.), a photo sensor (or image sensor), and a laser sensor. The camera device (531) may be connected to an image sensor and process an image input to the image sensor.

[0064] The wireless communication unit (520) may include a broadcast receiving module (521), a mobile communication module (522), a wireless internet module (523), a short-range communication module (524), and / or a location information module (525).

[0065] The broadcast receiving module (521) receives broadcast signals and / or broadcast-related information from an external broadcast management server through a broadcast channel. The broadcast channel may include a satellite channel and a terrestrial channel.

[0066] A mobile communication module (522) transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network built according to technical standards or communication methods for mobile communication (e.g., GSM (Global System for Mobile communication), CDMA (Code Division Multi Access), CDMA2000 (Code Division Multi Access 2000), EV-DO (Enhanced Voice-Data Optimized or Enhanced Voice-Data Only), WCDMA (Wideband CDMA), HSDPA (High Speed ​​Downlink Packet Access), HSUPA (High Speed ​​Uplink Packet Access), LTE (Long Term Evolution), LTE-A (Long Term Evolution-Advanced), etc.). The wireless signals may include various forms of data such as voice call signals, video call call signals, or text / multimedia message transmission and reception.

[0067] The wireless internet module (523) refers to a module for wireless internet access. The wireless internet module (523) may be configured to transmit and receive wireless signals in a communication network according to wireless internet technologies. Examples of wireless internet technologies include WLAN (Wireless LAN), Wi-Fi (Wireless-Fidelity), Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) Direct, DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance), etc.

[0068] The short-range communication module (524) is for short-range communication and can support short-range communication using Bluetooth, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Ultra Wideband (UWB), ZigBee, Near Field Communication (NFC), Wi-Fi (Wireless-Fidelity), Wi-Fi Direct, and / or Wireless USB (Wireless Universal Serial Bus) technology. The short-range communication module (524) can support wireless communication between the electronic device (1) and a wireless communication system, between the electronic device (1) and another electronic device, or between the electronic device (1) and a network where another electronic device (or external server) is located, through a short-range wireless communication network. The short-range wireless communication network may be a short-range wireless personal area network. Other electronic devices may be wearable devices capable of exchanging data with (or interoperable with) the electronic device (1).

[0069] The location information module (525) is a module for obtaining the location (or current location) of the electronic device (1) and may include a GPS (Global Positioning System) module or a WiFi (Wireless Fidelity) module.

[0070] The input unit (530) may include a video input unit such as a camera device (531) for inputting a video signal, an audio input unit such as a microphone (532) for inputting an audio signal, and an input device (533) for receiving information from a user.

[0071] The camera device (531) processes image frames, such as still images or video, obtained by an image sensor in video call mode or shooting mode. The processed image frames may be displayed on a display panel (10) or stored in memory (570).

[0072] The microphone (532) processes an external acoustic signal into electrical voice data. The processed voice data can be utilized in various ways depending on the function (or application) being performed on the electronic device (1).

[0073] The main processor (510) can control the operation of the electronic device (1) to correspond to information input through the input device (533). The input device (533) may include mechanical input means or touch input means, such as a button, dome switch, jog wheel, jog switch, etc., located on the rear or side of the electronic device (1). The touch input means may be formed by a touchscreen layer of the display panel (10).

[0074] The sensor unit (540) may include one or more sensors that sense at least one of information within the electronic device (1), surrounding environment information surrounding the electronic device (1), and user information, and generate a corresponding sensing signal. Based on these sensing signals, the main processor (510) may control the operation or function of the electronic device (1), or perform data processing, functions, or operations related to an application installed on the electronic device (1). The sensor unit (540) may include a proximity sensor, an illumination sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic sensor, a gravity sensor (G-sensor), a gyroscope sensor, a motion sensor, an RGB sensor, an infrared sensor (IR sensor: infrared sensor), a fingerprint sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an optical sensor, a battery gauge, an environmental sensor (e.g., a barometer, a hygrometer, a thermometer, a radiation detection sensor, a heat detection sensor, a gas detection sensor, etc.), and / or a chemical sensor (e.g., an electronic nose, a healthcare sensor, a biometric sensor, etc.).

[0075] The output unit (550) is for generating output related to sight, hearing, or touch, and may include at least one of a display panel (10), an acoustic output unit (551), a haptic module (552), and a light output unit (553).

[0076] The display panel (10) displays (outputs) information processed by the electronic device (1). For example, the display panel (10) can display information on the execution screen of an application running on the electronic device (1), or UI (User Interface) and GUI (Graphic User Interface) information based on the execution screen information. The display panel (10) may include a display layer that displays an image and a touchscreen layer that detects touch input from a user. As a result, the display panel (10) can function as one of the input devices (533) that provide an input interface between the electronic device (1) and the user, and at the same time, as one of the output units (550) that provide an output interface between the electronic device (1) and the user.

[0077] The sound output unit (551) can output sound data received from the wireless communication unit (520) or stored in the memory (570) in signal reception, call mode or recording mode, voice recognition mode, broadcast reception mode, etc. The sound output unit (551) may also output sound signals related to functions performed by the electronic device (1) (e.g., call signal reception sound, message reception sound, etc.). The sound output unit (551) may include a receiver and a speaker. At least one of the receiver and the speaker may be a sound generating device attached to the lower part of the display panel (10) to vibrate the display panel (10) and output sound. The sound generating device may be a piezoelectric element or a piezoelectric actuator that contracts and expands according to an electrical signal, or an exciter that generates magnetic force using a voice coil to vibrate the display panel (10).

[0078] The haptic module (552) generates various tactile effects that the user can feel. The haptic module (552) can provide vibration to the user as a tactile effect. The haptic module (552) can not only transmit tactile effects through direct contact, but can also be implemented so that the user can feel tactile effects through the sense of touch of fingers or arms.

[0079] The light output unit (553) outputs a signal to indicate the occurrence of an event using light from a light source. Examples of events occurring in the electronic device (1) may include receiving a message, receiving a call signal, a missed call, an alarm, a schedule notification, receiving an email, receiving information through an application, etc. The signal output by the light output unit (553) is implemented as the electronic device (1) emits single-color or multiple-color light from the front or back. The signal output may be terminated when the electronic device (1) detects the user's confirmation of the event.

[0080] The interface section (560) serves as a passage for various types of external devices connected to the electronic device (1). The interface section (560) may include at least one of a wired / wireless headset port, an external charger port, a wired / wireless data port, a memory card port, a port for connecting a device equipped with an identification module, an audio I / O (Input / Output) port, a video I / O (Input / Output) port, and an earphone port. The electronic device (1) can perform appropriate control related to the connected external device in response to the external device being connected to the interface section (560).

[0081] The memory (570) stores data that supports various functions of the electronic device (1). The memory (570) can store a number of application programs running on the electronic device (1), data for the operation of the electronic device (1), and commands. At least some of the number of applications can be downloaded from an external server via wireless communication. The memory (570) can store applications for the operation of the main processor (510) and can temporarily store input / output data, such as phonebooks, messages, still images, videos, etc. Additionally, the memory (570) can store haptic data for various patterns of vibration provided to the haptic module (552) and acoustic data regarding various sounds provided to the sound output unit (551). The memory (570) may include at least one type of storage medium among flash memory type, hard disk type, SSD type (Solid State Disk type), SSD type (Silicon Disk Drive type), multimedia card micro type, card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), RAM (random access memory; RAM), SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory; ROM), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), PROM (programmable read-only memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk.

[0082] The power supply unit (580), under the control of the main processor (510), receives external power and internal power and supplies power to each component included in the electronic device (1). The power supply unit (580) may include a battery. Additionally, the power supply unit (580) is provided with a connection port, and the connection port may be configured as an example of an interface unit (560) to which an external charger that supplies power for charging the battery is electrically connected. Alternatively, the power supply unit (580) may be configured to charge the battery wirelessly without using the connection port.

[0083] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of a display panel according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3a is a perspective view showing a display panel according to a comparative example in a state extended in a first direction. FIG. 3b is a perspective view showing a display panel according to an embodiment of the present invention in a state extended in a first direction. FIG. 3c is a perspective view showing a display panel according to an embodiment of the present invention in a state extended in a first direction and a second direction.

[0084] Referring to FIG. 2, the display panel (10) may include a display area (DA) and a non-display area (NDA) disposed at the edge or periphery of the display area (DA). The display area (DA) may include a plurality of pixels. The display panel (10) may provide a predetermined image using light emitted from the plurality of pixels. The non-display area (NDA) may be disposed outside the display area (DA). The non-display area (NDA) may completely surround the display area (DA).

[0085] As the display panel (10) comprises a stretchable material, it can be stretched or contracted in various directions. The display panel (10) can be stretched in a first direction (e.g., x direction and / or -x direction) or a second direction (e.g., y direction and / or -y direction) by an external force applied by an external object or user. When a longitudinal tensile force (TF) (e.g., the second direction) is applied to the display panel (10), deformation may occur in the display panel (10) along the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction (e.g., the first direction). At this time, the negative ratio between the longitudinal strain and the transverse strain can be defined as Poisson's Ratio.

[0086] As shown in FIG. 3a, when a tensile force (TF) in a first direction (e.g., x direction and / or -x direction) is applied to a display panel having a general structure, the display panel may be stretched in the first direction (e.g., x direction and / or -x direction). However, while the display panel is stretched in the first direction (e.g., x direction and / or -x direction), it may also contract in a second direction (e.g., y direction and / or -y direction). That is, a display panel having a general structure as shown in FIG. 3a may have a positive Poisson ratio because the signs of the longitudinal strain and the transverse strain are different.

[0087] At this time, when a display panel such as FIG. 3a is stretched in a first direction (e.g., x direction and / or -x direction), it contracts in a second direction (e.g., y direction and / or -y direction), so wrinkles may occur in the display panel. Additionally, as it contracts in the second direction (e.g., y direction and / or -y direction), the arrangement of pixels placed on the display panel may become distorted, and thus distortion may occur in the image displayed on the display panel.

[0088] In contrast, referring to FIGS. 3b and 3c, a display panel (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a structure having a negative Poisson ratio, thereby enabling the realization of an image of excellent quality even during stretching. Specifically, a display panel (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include an auxetic structure (AX, FIG. 9) having a negative Poisson ratio. The auxetic structure (AX, FIG. 9) may be a structure in which the sign of the longitudinal strain and the sign of the transverse strain are the same.

[0089] When a tensile force (TF) in a first direction (e.g., x direction and / or -x direction) is applied to the display panel (10), the display panel (10) is not only stretched in the first direction (e.g., x direction and / or -x direction), but the display panel (10) can also be stretched in a second direction (e.g., y direction and / or -y direction). For example, a display panel (10) such as FIG. 3b may not contract in the second direction (e.g., y direction and / or -y direction) even though it is stretched in the first direction (e.g., x direction and / or -x direction), as it includes an aggetic structure (AX, FIG. 9) having a negative Poisson ratio. Alternatively, a display panel (10) such as in FIG. 3c may be stretched in a first direction (e.g., x direction and / or -x direction) and simultaneously stretched in a second direction (e.g., y direction and / or -y direction) by including an aggetic structure (AX, FIG. 9).

[0090] In other words, a display panel (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may have a structure that is not only stretched in the direction in which a tensile force (TF) is applied, but also stretched in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the tensile force (TF) is applied. Since the display panel (10) including the auxetic structure (AX, FIG. 9) does not shrink in the perpendicular direction even when stretched in a specific direction, wrinkles may not form on the display panel (10). In addition, the display panel (10) such as FIG. 3b and FIG. 3c can maintain the arrangement of pixels at a constant interval, so that an image of excellent quality can be realized even when stretched.

[0091] FIG. 4 is a schematic plan view of a display panel (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0092] Referring to FIG. 4, various components forming a display panel (10) are arranged on a substrate (100). The substrate (100) may include a display area (DA) and a non-display area (NDA) surrounding the display area (DA). The display area (DA) may be covered with a sealing member to be protected from the outside air or moisture.

[0093] Pixels (P) are arranged in the display area (DA) of the substrate (100). Each pixel (P) can display an image using light emitted from a light-emitting element, such as a light-emitting diode. Each light-emitting diode can emit, for example, red, green, or blue light.

[0094] Each light-emitting diode may be electrically connected to a pixel circuit, and each pixel circuit may include transistors and a storage capacitor. Each pixel circuit may be electrically connected to peripheral circuits and peripheral wiring located in a non-display area (NDA). Peripheral circuits located in the non-display area (NDA) may include a gate driving circuit (GDC) and a terminal section (PAD). Peripheral wiring may include a driving voltage supply line (W11), a common voltage supply line (W13), and a fan-out line (FW).

[0095] The gate driving circuit (GDC) may include drivers for providing an electrical signal to the gate electrode of each of the transistors electrically connected to the light-emitting elements. Specifically, the gate driving circuit (GDC) may apply a scan signal to each of the pixel circuits corresponding to the pixels (P) through the gate line (GL).

[0096] The gate driving circuit (GDC) may include a first gate driving circuit (GDC1) and a second gate driving circuit (GDC2) positioned on both sides with the display area (DA) in between. The second gate driving circuit (GDC2) may be located on the opposite side of the first gate driving circuit (GDC1) with respect to the display area (DA) and may be approximately parallel to the first gate driving circuit (GDC1). Some of the pixel circuits may be electrically connected to the first gate driving circuit (GDC1), and the rest may be electrically connected to the second gate driving circuit (GDC2). In some embodiments, the second gate driving circuit (GDC2) may be omitted.

[0097] A terminal portion (PAD) may be disposed on one side of the substrate (100). The terminal portion (PAD) is exposed without being covered by an insulating layer and is connected to a display circuit board (30). A display driving portion (32) may be disposed on the display circuit board (30). The display driving portion (32) may generate a control signal that is transmitted to a first gate driving circuit (GDC1) and a second gate driving circuit (GDC2). The display driving portion (32) generates a data signal, and the generated data signal may be transmitted to the pixel circuits of pixels (P) through a fan-out wiring (FW) and a data line (DL) connected to the fan-out wiring (FW).

[0098] The display driving unit (32) can supply a first power supply voltage (VDD, FIG. 7a) to the driving voltage supply wire (W11) and a second power supply voltage (VSS, FIG. 7a) to the common voltage supply wire (W13). The first power supply voltage (VDD, FIG. 7a) is applied to the pixel circuit of the pixel (P) through the driving voltage line (PL) connected to the driving voltage supply wire (W11), and the second power supply voltage (VSS, FIG. 7a) is connected to the common voltage supply wire (W13) and can be applied to the opposing electrode of the light-emitting element. The driving voltage supply wire (W11) may be provided extending along the x-direction from the lower side of the display area (DA). The common voltage supply wire (W13) may have a loop shape with one side open, so as to partially surround the display area (DA).

[0099] FIG. 5a is a schematic plan view showing the arrangement of pixels before stretching of a display panel according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5b and FIG. 5c are schematic plan views showing the arrangement of pixels after stretching of a display panel according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] Referring to FIG. 5a, a red pixel (PXr), a green pixel (PXg), and a blue pixel (PXb) may be arranged in a display area (DA) of a display panel (10). The display area (DA) may include a pixel area (11) and a connecting area (12) outside the pixel area (11). A red pixel (PXr), a green pixel (PXg), and a blue pixel (PXb) may be arranged in the pixel area (11). The red pixel (PXr), the green pixel (PXg), and the blue pixel (PXb) may constitute a single pixel unit (PU). Pixel units (PUs) may be repeatedly arranged in the display area (DA).

[0101] Connecting wires that electrically connect adjacent pixels may be arranged in the connecting area (12). The connecting area (12) may be stretched relatively more than the pixel area (11) when the display panel (10) is stretched. In one embodiment, the connecting wires arranged in the connecting area (12) may include a material having both desirable elasticity and electrical properties (e.g., excellent elasticity and electrical properties). For example, the connecting wires arranged in the connecting area (12) may include metal nanostructures and elastic polymers. Alternatively, the connecting wires arranged in the connecting area (12) may include liquid metal, etc. The pixel areas (11) may be arranged at predetermined intervals along a first direction (e.g., x-direction) and a second direction (e.g., y-direction).

[0102] In the original state where the display panel (10) is not stretched, the area where a 3×3 pixel area (11) is arranged can be defined as a pre-stretch unit area (UAp). The pre-stretch unit area (UAp) may have a second unit width (uw2) in a first direction (e.g., x direction) and a first unit width (uw1) in a second direction (e.g., y direction).

[0103] Referring to FIGS. 5b and 5c, the display panel (10) can be stretched in a first direction (e.g., x-direction). As previously described, when a display panel having a general structure is stretched in the first direction (e.g., x-direction), the display panel can be contracted in a second direction (e.g., y-direction). That is, after stretching, the width of the unit area in the second direction (e.g., y-direction) may be smaller than the first unit width (uw1). The pixel areas (11) arranged on such a display panel may not be arranged at regular intervals, and the spacing may be reduced only in certain parts, or the arrangement of the pixel areas (11) may be distorted.

[0104] In contrast, when a display panel (10) including an aggetic structure (AX, FIG. 9) described later is stretched in a first direction (e.g., x direction), the display panel (10) may not shrink in a second direction (e.g., y direction). For example, a display panel (10) such as FIG. 5b may not undergo deformation in a second direction (e.g., y direction) even when stretched in a first direction (e.g., x direction). Alternatively, a display panel (10) such as FIG. 5c may be stretched in a second direction (e.g., y direction) even when stretched in a first direction (e.g., x direction).

[0105] When the display panel (10) is stretched, the area where 3×3 pixel areas (11) are arranged can be defined as a unit area (UAs, or UAs') after stretching. Referring to FIG. 5b, the unit area (UAs) after stretching may have a third unit width (uw3) that is larger than a second unit width (uw2) in a first direction (e.g., x-direction) and a first unit width (uw1) in a second direction (e.g., y-direction). Since the display panel (10) does not shrink in the second direction (e.g., y-direction) even when stretched in the first direction (e.g., x-direction), the spacing of the pixel areas (11) can be increased evenly in the lateral direction, and the arrangement of the pixel areas (11) can be maintained stably.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 5c, after stretching, the unit area (UAs') may have a third unit width (uw3) that is larger than the second unit width (uw2) in the first direction (e.g., x direction) and a fourth unit width (uw4) that is larger than the first unit width (uw1) in the second direction (e.g., y direction). Since this display panel (10) is stretched in the first direction (e.g., x direction) and simultaneously stretched in the second direction (e.g., y direction), the spacing of the pixel areas (11) can be increased evenly in both directions, so that the arrangement of the pixel areas (11) can be maintained more stably.

[0107] FIG. 6a is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6b is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of a display panel according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0108] Referring to FIGS. 6a and 6b, the display area (DA) may include a pixel area (11) and a connection area (12), and the connection area (12) may be an area connecting pixel areas (11) that are arranged adjacent to each other. The pixel area (11) may include a light-emitting element (LED) and a circuit for driving the light-emitting element (LED), such as a pixel circuit (PC). The connection area (12) may include a connection wire (WL) electrically connected to the pixel circuits (PC) arranged in each pixel area (11).

[0109] A pixel area (11) and a connection area (12) can be formed on a support layer (100). In other words, the support layer (100) can have each of the pixel area (11) and the connection area (12) defined. A light-emitting element (LED) and a pixel circuit (PC) can be placed on the pixel area (11) of the support layer (100), and a connection wire (WL) can be placed on the connection area (12) of the support layer (100).

[0110] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6a, the support layer (100) may include a lower elastomer layer (100a), a stretch control layer (100b), and an auxiliary elastomer layer (100c). The lower elastomer layer (100a), the stretch control layer (100b), and the auxiliary elastomer layer (100c) may be stacked sequentially. In other words, the objetic structure (AX, FIG. 9) of the stretch control layer (100b) may be a structure embedded in an elastomer composed of the lower elastomer layer (100a) and the auxiliary elastomer layer (100c). Accordingly, the objetic structure (AX, FIG. 9) of the stretch control layer (100b) does not come into direct contact with the display layer (200), and the auxiliary elastomer layer (100c) may come into direct contact with the display layer (200).

[0111] In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6b, the support layer (100) may comprise only a lower elastomer layer (100a) and a stretch control layer (100b). The stretch control layer (100b) may be disposed on the lower elastomer layer (100a). In other words, the objetic structure (AX, FIG. 9) of the stretch control layer (100b) may be a structure embedded in the upper surface of the lower elastomer layer (100a). Accordingly, the objetic structure (AX, FIG. 9) of the stretch control layer (100b) may come into direct contact with the display layer (200).

[0112] The stretch control layer (100b) may include an auxetic structure (AX, FIG. 9). The auxetic structure (AX, FIG. 9) is a structure having a negative Poisson ratio, and the stretch control layer (100b) may prevent the display panel (10) from shrinking in a second direction (e.g., y direction) when stretched in a first direction (e.g., x direction). Likewise, the stretch control layer (100b) may prevent the display panel (10) from shrinking in a first direction (e.g., x direction) when stretched in a second direction (e.g., y direction). The auxetic structure (AX, FIG. 9) may include a plurality of openings and a boundary pattern forming a boundary between the openings, and the plurality of openings may be filled with a lower elastomer layer (100a) and / or an auxiliary elastomer layer (100c). The Ogetic structure will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 9.

[0113] The lower elastomer layer (100a) and the auxiliary elastomer layer (100c) can absorb stress that may occur during the stretching of the display panel (10). Specifically, the lower elastomer layer (100a) and the auxiliary elastomer layer (100c) can prevent stress that may be concentrated in the boundary pattern of the aggetic structure (AX, FIG. 9) during the stretching of the display panel (10) from being transferred to the display layer (200).

[0114] The lower elastomer layer (100a) and the auxiliary elastomer layer (100c) may include an elastic polymer. For example, the lower elastomer layer (100a) and the auxiliary elastomer layer (100c) are thermoplastic polyurethane, silicone, thermoplastic rubbers, elastolefin, thermoplastic olefin, polyamide, polyether block amide, synthetic polyisoprene, polybutadiene, chloroprene rubber, butyl rubber, styrene-butadiene, epichlorohydrin rubber, polyacrylic rubber, silicone rubber, fluorosilicone rubber, fluoroelastomers, It may include at least one of ethylene-vinyl acetate, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), and ecoflex.

[0115] In one embodiment, the lower elastomer layer (100a) and the auxiliary elastomer layer (100c) may comprise the same material and be formed integrally. However, this is not limited thereto, and the lower elastomer layer (100a) and the auxiliary elastomer layer (100c) may comprise different materials.

[0116] A display layer (200) may be disposed on the pixel area (11) of the support layer (100). The display layer (200) may include an inorganic insulating layer (IIL), a pixel circuit (PC), an organic insulating layer (OIL), and a light-emitting element (LED). A pixel circuit (PC) may be disposed on the support layer (100), and an inorganic insulating layer (IIL) may be disposed between the electrodes included in the pixel circuit (PC). An organic insulating layer (OIL) may be disposed on the inorganic insulating layer (IIL) to cover the pixel circuit (PC). A light-emitting element (LED) may be disposed on the organic insulating layer (OIL) and may be electrically connected to the corresponding pixel circuit (PC). The inorganic insulating layer (IIL) may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon nitride and / or silicon oxide, and the organic insulating layer (OIL) may include an organic insulating material such as polyimide.

[0117] In one embodiment, a pixel unit (PU) may be disposed on a pixel area (11). As previously described, the pixel unit (PU) may include a red pixel (PXr, FIG. 5a), a green pixel (PXg, FIG. 5a), and a blue pixel (PXb, FIG. 5a). The red pixel (PXr, FIG. 5a) may include a first light-emitting diode (LED1), the green pixel (PXg, FIG. 5a) may include a second light-emitting diode (LED2), and the blue pixel (PXb) may include a third light-emitting diode (LED3). For example, the first light-emitting diode (LED1) may emit red light, the second light-emitting diode (LED2) may emit green light, and the third light-emitting diode (LED3) may emit blue light. In some embodiments, the light-emitting element (LED) may emit white light.

[0118] A connecting wire (WL) may be disposed in the connecting area (12) of the support layer (100). In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6a, the connecting wire (WL) may be disposed on the support layer (100). In another embodiment, the connecting wire (WL) may be disposed within the support layer (100). The connecting wire (WL) may include a material having both appropriate elasticity and electrical properties (e.g., excellent elasticity and electrical properties).

[0119] An organic insulating layer (OIL) may be disposed in the connection area (12) of the support layer (100). In one embodiment, the organic insulating layer (OIL) disposed in the connection area (12) may be a portion of the organic insulating layer (OIL) disposed in the pixel area (11) that extends to the connection area (12). When the display panel (10) is stretched, the connection area (12) may undergo relatively more deformation compared to the pixel area (11). Accordingly, unlike the pixel area (11), a layer containing an inorganic insulating material that is prone to cracking may not exist in the connection area (12).

[0120] In one embodiment, an upper elastomer layer (300) may be disposed on the light-emitting element (LED). The upper elastomer layer (300) may be disposed in both the pixel area (11) and the connection area (12). That is, the upper elastomer layer (300) may be disposed to cover the entire display area (DA). The upper elastomer layer (300) can absorb stress that may occur when the display panel (10) is stretched. Specifically, the upper elastomer layer (300) may serve to prevent stress that may occur when the display panel (10) is stretched from being transmitted to the light-emitting element (LED) and the pixel circuit (PC).

[0121] The upper elastomer layer (300) may include an elastic polymer. The upper elastomer layer (300) is thermoplastic polyurethane, silicone, thermoplastic rubbers, elastolefin, thermoplastic olefin, polyamide, polyether block amide, synthetic polyisoprene, polybutadiene, chloroprene rubber, butyl rubber, styrene-butadiene, epichlorohydrin rubber, polyacrylic rubber, silicone rubber, fluorosilicone rubber, and fluoroelastomers, and / or ethylene-vinyl acetate, It may include PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane). In one embodiment, the upper elastomer layer (300) may include the same material as the lower elastomer layer (100a). However, it is not limited thereto, and the upper elastomer layer (300) may include a different material from the lower elastomer layer (100a).

[0122] FIGS. 7a to 7c are each equivalent circuit diagrams of pixels of a display panel according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 7a, a light-emitting element (LED) corresponding to a pixel is electrically connected to a pixel circuit (PC), and the pixel circuit (PC) may include a first transistor (T1), a second transistor (T2), and a storage capacitor (Cst). The pixel circuit (PC) may be electrically connected to signal lines and voltage lines. The signal lines may include a gate line (GL, FIG. 4), such as a scan signal line (GWL), and a data line (DL), and the voltage lines may include a first voltage line (VDDL) and a second voltage line (VSSL). In this case, the first voltage line (VDDL) may be connected to a driving voltage supply line (W11, FIG. 4), and the second voltage line (VSSL) may be connected to a common voltage supply line (W13, FIG. 4).

[0124] The second transistor (T2) can be electrically connected to the scan signal line (GWL) and the data line (DL). The scan signal line (GWL) can provide a scan signal (GW) to the gate electrode of the second transistor (T2). The second transistor (T2) can transmit a data signal (Dm) input from the data line (DL) to the first transistor (T1) according to the scan signal (GW) input from the scan signal line (GWL).

[0125] The storage capacitor (Cst) is electrically connected to the second transistor (T2) and the first voltage line (VDDL), and can store a voltage corresponding to the difference between the voltage received from the second transistor (T2) and the first power supply voltage (VDD) supplied by the first voltage line (VDDL).

[0126] The first transistor (T1) is a driving transistor capable of controlling the driving current flowing through the light-emitting element (LED). The first transistor (T1) can be connected to the first voltage line (VDDL) and the storage capacitor (Cst). The first transistor (T1) can control the driving current flowing through the light-emitting element (LED) from the first voltage line (VDDL) in correspondence with the voltage value stored in the storage capacitor (Cst). The light-emitting element (LED) can emit light having a predetermined brightness by the driving current. The first electrode of the light-emitting element (LED) is electrically connected to the first transistor (T1), and the second electrode of the light-emitting element (LED) can be electrically connected to the second voltage line (VSSL) that supplies the second power supply voltage (VSS).

[0127] FIG. 7a illustrates a pixel circuit (PC) comprising two transistors and one storage capacitor, but in other embodiments, the pixel circuit (PC) may comprise three or more transistors.

[0128] Referring to FIG. 7b, the pixel circuit (PC) may include a first transistor (T1), a second transistor (T2), a third transistor (T3), a fourth transistor (T4), a fifth transistor (T5), a sixth transistor (T6), a seventh transistor (T7), and a storage capacitor (Cst).

[0129] The pixel circuit (PC) is electrically connected to signal lines and voltage lines. The signal lines may include gate lines (GL, FIG. 4), such as scan signal lines (GWL), bypass control lines (GBL), initialization control lines (GIL), and light emission control lines (EML), and data lines (DL). The voltage lines may include first and second initialization voltage lines (VIL1, VIL2) and a first voltage line (VDDL). In this case, the first voltage line (VDDL) may be connected to a driving voltage supply line (W11, FIG. 4), and the second voltage line (VSSL) may be connected to a common voltage supply line (W13, FIG. 4).

[0130] The first voltage line (VDDL) can transmit a first power supply voltage (VDD) to the first transistor (T1). The first initialization voltage line (VIL1) can transmit a first initialization voltage (Vint) that initializes the first transistor (T1) to the pixel circuit (PC). The second initialization voltage line (VIL2) can transmit a second initialization voltage (Vaint) that initializes the first electrode of the light-emitting element (LED) to the pixel circuit (PC).

[0131] The first transistor (T1) can be electrically connected to the first voltage line (VDDL) via the fifth transistor (T5) and electrically connected to the light-emitting element (LED) via the sixth transistor (T6). The first transistor (T1) acts as a driving transistor and receives a data signal (Dm) according to the switching operation of the second transistor (T2) to supply driving current to the light-emitting element (LED).

[0132] The second transistor (T2) is a data write transistor and is electrically connected to the scan signal line (GWL) and the data line (DL). The second transistor (T2) is electrically connected to the first voltage line (VDDL) via the fifth transistor (T5). The second transistor (T2) is turned on according to the scan signal (GW) received through the scan signal line (GWL) and performs a switching operation to transmit the data signal (Dm) transmitted to the data line (DL) to the first node (N1) connected to the first electrode of the first transistor (T1).

[0133] The third transistor (T3) is electrically connected to the scan signal line (GWL) and is electrically connected to the light-emitting element (LED) via the sixth transistor (T6). The third transistor (T3) is connected between the gate electrode and the second electrode of the first transistor (T1). The third transistor (T3) is turned on according to the scan signal (GW) received through the scan signal line (GWL) so that the first transistor (T1) can be diode-connected.

[0134] The fourth transistor (T4) is the first initialization transistor and is electrically connected to the initialization control line (GIL), the gate electrode of the first transistor (T1), and the first initialization voltage line (VIL1). The fourth transistor (T4) is turned on according to the initialization control signal (GI) received through the initialization control line (GIL) to transmit the first initialization voltage (Vint) from the first initialization voltage line (VIL1) to the gate electrode of the first transistor (T1), thereby initializing the voltage of the gate electrode of the first transistor (T1). The initialization control signal (GI) may correspond to a scan signal of another pixel circuit placed in the previous row of the corresponding pixel circuit (PC).

[0135] The fifth transistor (T5) may be an operation control transistor, and the sixth transistor (T6) may be a light emission control transistor. The fifth transistor (T5) and the sixth transistor (T6) are electrically connected to the light emission control line (EML) and are simultaneously turned on according to the light emission control signal (EM) received through the light emission control line (EML) to form a current path so that a driving current can flow from the first voltage line (VDDL) toward the light-emitting element (LED).

[0136] The seventh transistor (T7) is a second initialization transistor and can be electrically connected to the bypass control line (GBL), the second initialization voltage line (VIL2), and the sixth transistor (T6). The seventh transistor (T7) is turned on according to the bypass control signal (GB) received through the bypass control line (GBL), and can initialize the first electrode of the light-emitting element (LED) by transmitting the second initialization voltage (Vaint) from the second initialization voltage line (VIL2) to the first electrode of the light-emitting element (LED).

[0137] The storage capacitor (Cst) includes a first electrode (CE1) and a second electrode (CE2). The first electrode (CE1) is electrically connected to the gate electrode of the first transistor (T1), and the second electrode (CE2) is electrically connected to the first voltage line (VDDL). The storage capacitor (Cst) can maintain the voltage applied to the gate electrode of the first transistor (T1) by storing and maintaining a voltage corresponding to the difference between the voltages of the first voltage line (VDDL) and the gate electrode of the first transistor (T1).

[0138] Referring to FIG. 7c, the pixel circuit (PC) may include a first transistor (T1), a second transistor (T2), a third transistor (T3), a fourth transistor (T4), a fifth transistor (T5), a sixth transistor (T6), a seventh transistor (T7), an eighth transistor (T8), a ninth transistor (T9), a storage capacitor (Cst), and an auxiliary capacitor (Ca).

[0139] The pixel circuit (PC) is electrically connected to signal lines and voltage lines. The signal lines may include gate lines such as a scan signal line (GWL), a bypass control line (GBL), an initialization control line (GIL), and an emission control line (EML), and data lines (DL). The voltage lines may include first and second initialization voltage lines (VIL1, VIL2), a holding voltage line (VSL), a first voltage line (VDDL), and a second voltage line (VSSL). In this case, the first voltage line (VDDL) may be connected to a driving voltage supply line (W11, FIG. 4), and the second voltage line (VSSL) may be connected to a common voltage supply line (W13, FIG. 4).

[0140] The first voltage line (VDDL) can transmit a first power supply voltage (VDD) to the first transistor (T1). The first initialization voltage line (VIL1) can transmit a first initialization voltage (Vint) that initializes the first transistor (T1) to the pixel circuit (PC). The second initialization voltage line (VIL2) can transmit a second initialization voltage (Vaint) that initializes the first electrode of the light-emitting element (LED) to the pixel circuit (PC). The holding voltage line (VSL) can provide a holding voltage (VSUS) to the second electrode (CE2) of the second node (N2), for example, the storage capacitor (Cst), during the initialization period and the data writing period.

[0141] The first transistor (T1) can be electrically connected to the first voltage line (VDDL) via the fifth transistor (T5) and the eighth transistor (T8), and can be electrically connected to the light-emitting element (LED) via the sixth transistor (T6). The first transistor (T1) acts as a driving transistor and can receive a data signal (Dm) according to the switching operation of the second transistor (T2) and supply a driving current to the light-emitting element (LED).

[0142] The second transistor (T2) is electrically connected to the scan signal line (GWL) and the data line (DL), and is electrically connected to the first voltage line (VDDL) via the fifth transistor (T5) and the eighth transistor (T8). The second transistor (T2) is turned on according to the scan signal (GW) received through the scan signal line (GWL) and performs a switching operation to transmit the data signal (Dm) transmitted to the data line (DL) to the first node (N1) connected to the first electrode of the first transistor (T1).

[0143] The third transistor (T3) is electrically connected to the scan signal line (GWL) and is electrically connected to the light-emitting element (LED) via the sixth transistor (T6). The third transistor (T3) is connected between the gate electrode and the second electrode of the first transistor (T1). The third transistor (T3) is turned on according to the scan signal (GW) received through the scan signal line (GWL) and connects the first transistor (T1) to the diode, thereby compensating for the threshold voltage of the first transistor (T1).

[0144] The fourth transistor (T4) is electrically connected to the initialization control line (GIL) and the first initialization voltage line (VIL1), and is turned on according to the initialization control signal (GI) received through the initialization control line (GIL) to transmit the first initialization voltage (Vint) from the first initialization voltage line (VIL1) to the gate electrode of the first transistor (T1) to initialize the voltage of the gate electrode of the first transistor (T1). The initialization control signal (GI) may correspond to a scan signal of another pixel circuit placed in the previous row of the corresponding pixel circuit (PC).

[0145] The fifth transistor (T5), the sixth transistor (T6), and the eighth transistor (T8) are electrically connected to the light emission control line (EML) and are simultaneously turned on according to the light emission control signal (EM) received through the light emission control line (EML) to form a current path so that driving current can flow from the first voltage line (VDDL) toward the light-emitting element (LED).

[0146] The seventh transistor (T7) is a second initialization transistor and can be electrically connected to the bypass control line (GBL), the second initialization voltage line (VIL2), and the sixth transistor (T6). The seventh transistor (T7) is turned on according to the bypass control signal (GB) received through the bypass control line (GBL) and transmits the second initialization voltage (Vaint) from the second initialization voltage line (VIL2) to the first electrode of the light-emitting element (LED) to initialize the first electrode of the light-emitting element (LED).

[0147] The ninth transistor (T9) can be electrically connected to the bypass control line (GBL), the second electrode (CE2) of the storage capacitor (Cst), and the holding voltage line (VSL). The ninth transistor (T9) is turned on according to the bypass control signal (GB) received through the bypass control line (GBL), and can transmit a holding voltage (VSUS) to the second node (N2), such as the second electrode (CE2) of the storage capacitor (Cst), during the initialization period and the data writing period.

[0148] The eighth transistor (T8) and the ninth transistor (T9) can each be electrically connected to the second node (N2), for example, the second electrode (CE2) of the storage capacitor (Cst). In some embodiments, the eighth transistor (T8) may be turned off and the ninth transistor (T9) may be turned on during the initialization period and the data writing period, and the eighth transistor (T8) may be turned on and the ninth transistor (T9) may be turned off during the light emission period. Since the second node (N2) receives the holding voltage (VSUS) during the initialization period and the data writing period, the uniformity of the brightness of the display device (e.g., LRU, Long Range Uniformity) due to the voltage drop of the first voltage line (VDDL) can be improved.

[0149] The storage capacitor (Cst) includes a first electrode (CE1) and a second electrode (CE2). The first electrode (CE1) is electrically connected to the gate electrode of the first transistor (T1), and the second electrode (CE2) is electrically connected to the eighth transistor (T8) and the ninth transistor (T9).

[0150] The auxiliary capacitor (Ca) can be electrically connected to the sixth transistor (T6), the holding voltage line (VSL), and the first electrode of the light-emitting element (LED). By storing and maintaining a voltage corresponding to the voltage difference between the first electrode of the light-emitting element (LED) and the holding voltage line (VSL) while the seventh transistor (T7) and the ninth transistor (T9) are turned on, the auxiliary capacitor (Ca) can prevent the problem of the black brightness rising when the sixth transistor (T6) is turned off.

[0151] FIGS. 8a and FIGS. 8b are cross-sectional views schematically showing a light-emitting element of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0152] Referring to FIG. 8a, in one embodiment of the present invention, the light-emitting element may include an inorganic light-emitting diode (230) comprising an inorganic material. The inorganic light-emitting diode (230) may include a first semiconductor layer (231), a second semiconductor layer (232), an intermediate layer (233) between the first semiconductor layer (231) and the second semiconductor layer (232), a first electrode (235) electrically connected to the first semiconductor layer (231), and a second electrode (238) electrically connected to the second semiconductor layer (232). The first electrode (235) and the second electrode (238) of the inorganic light-emitting diode (230) may each be electrically connected to a first electrode pad (241) and a second electrode pad (242) disposed on the same layer.

[0153] In some embodiments, the first semiconductor layer (231) may include a p-type semiconductor layer. The p-type semiconductor layer may be selected from semiconductor materials having the compositional formula InxAlyGa1-x-yN (0≤x≤1, 0≤y≤1, 0≤x+y≤1), such as GaN, AlN, AlGaN, InGaN, InN, InAlGaN, AlInN, etc., and may be doped with p-type dopants such as Mg, Zn, Ca, Sr, Ba, etc.

[0154] The second semiconductor layer (232) may include, for example, an n-type semiconductor layer. The n-type semiconductor layer may be selected from semiconductor materials having the composition formula InxAlyGa1-x-yN (0≤x≤1, 0≤y≤1, 0≤x+y≤1), for example, GaN, AlN, AlGaN, InGaN, InN, InAlGaN, AlInN, etc., and may be doped with n-type dopants such as Si, Ge, and Sn.

[0155] The intermediate layer (233) is a region where electrons and holes recombine, and as electrons and holes recombine, they transition to a lower energy level and can generate light having a corresponding wavelength. The intermediate layer (233) can be formed by including a semiconductor material having a composition formula of, for example, InxAlyGa1-x-yN (0≤x≤1, 0≤y≤1, 0≤x+y≤1), and can be formed as a single quantum well structure or a multi-quantum well (MQW) structure. Additionally, the intermediate layer (233) may include a quantum wire structure or a quantum dot structure.

[0156] FIG. 8a illustrates that the first semiconductor layer (231) includes a p-type semiconductor layer and the second semiconductor layer (232) includes an n-type semiconductor layer, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the first semiconductor layer (231) may include an n-type semiconductor layer and the second semiconductor layer (232) may include a p-type semiconductor layer.

[0157] Referring to FIG. 8b, a light-emitting element according to one embodiment of the present invention may include an organic light-emitting diode (220) comprising an organic material. The organic light-emitting diode (220) may include a first electrode (221) disposed on an insulating layer, a second electrode (225) facing the first electrode (221), and a light-emitting layer (223) interposed between the first electrode (221) and the second electrode (225). A first functional layer (222) may be disposed between the first electrode (221) and the light-emitting layer (223), and a second functional layer (224) may be disposed between the light-emitting layer (223) and the second electrode (225).

[0158] The edge of the first electrode (221) may be covered with a bank layer (BKL) containing an insulating material. The bank layer (BKL) may include an opening (B-OP) that overlaps the central portion of the first electrode (221).

[0159] The first electrode (221) may include a conductive oxide such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), indium oxide (In2O3), indium gallium oxide (IGO), or aluminum zinc oxide (AZO). In another embodiment, the first electrode (221) may include a reflective layer comprising silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), or a compound thereof. In another embodiment, the first electrode (221) may further include a layer formed of ITO, IZO, ZnO, AZO, or In2O3 above and below the aforementioned reflective layer.

[0160] The light-emitting layer (223) may include a polymer or low-molecular-weight organic material that emits light of a predetermined color. The first functional layer (222) may include a hole transport layer (HTL) and / or a hole injection layer (HIL). The second functional layer (224) may include an electron transport layer (ETL) and / or an electron injection layer (EIL).

[0161] The second electrode (225) may be made of a conductive material with a low work function. For example, the second electrode (225) may include a (semi)transparent layer comprising silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), lithium (Li), calcium (Ca), or alloys thereof. Alternatively, the second electrode (225) may further include a layer such as ITO, IZO, ZnO, AZO, or In2O3 on the (semi)transparent layer comprising the aforementioned materials.

[0162] FIG. 9 is a schematic plan view showing a stretch control layer of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is an enlarged plan view schematically showing a part of the stretch control layer of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0163] First, referring to FIG. 9, the stretching control layer (100b) may include an auxetic structure (AX). As previously described, the auxetic structure (AX) has a structure having a negative Poisson ratio, so when the auxetic structure (AX) is stretched by applying a tensile force in a first direction (e.g., x direction), it may also expand in a second direction (e.g., y direction) perpendicular to the first direction (e.g., x direction). Accordingly, the stretching control layer (100b) including the auxetic structure (AX) can serve to control the display panel (10, FIG. 1) so that it does not contract in the second direction (e.g., y direction) when it is stretched in the first direction (e.g., x direction).

[0164] An exogenous structure (AX) may include a plurality of unit structures. Specifically, the exogenous structure (AX) may include a first sub-unit structure (AXs1) and a second sub-unit structure (AXs2). The exogenous structure (AX) may have a structure in which the first sub-unit structure (AXs1) and the second sub-unit structure (AXs2) are arranged in a repeating pattern.

[0165] In one embodiment, the first sub-unit structure (AXs1) and the second sub-unit structure (AXs2) may each have the shape of a concave polygon. Specifically, the first sub-unit structure (AXs1) and the second sub-unit structure (AXs2) may have the shape of a concave hexagon. The first sub-unit structure (AXs1) and the second sub-unit structure (AXs2) may each have two interior angles that are concave angles. Here, an concave angle may mean an angle greater than 180° and less than 360°. That is, the first sub-unit structure (AXs1) and the second sub-unit structure (AXs2) may each have a ribbon shape or a bow tie shape.

[0166] In other words, the first subunit structure (AXs1) and the second subunit structure (AXs2) may each have a re-entrant shape. The aggetic structure (AX) formed by the repeated arrangement of the first subunit structure (AXs1) and the second subunit structure (AXs2) may have a re-entrant hexagonal honeycomb structure.

[0167] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the first sub-unit structure (AXs1) and the second sub-unit structure (AXs2) may have different sizes. Specifically, the planar area of ​​the first sub-unit structure (AXs1) may be larger than the planar area of ​​the second sub-unit structure (AXs2). The first sub-unit structure (AXs1) may have a first horizontal length (L1) along a first direction (e.g., x-direction) and a first vertical length (H1) along a second direction (e.g., y-direction). The second sub-unit structure (AXs2) may have a second horizontal length (L2) along a first direction (e.g., x-direction) and a second vertical length (H2) along a second direction (e.g., y-direction). At this time, the first horizontal length (L1) of the first sub-unit structure (AXs1) and the second horizontal length (L2) of the second sub-unit structure (AXs2) may be the same, and the first vertical length (H1) of the first sub-unit structure (AXs1) may be larger than the second vertical length (H2) of the second sub-unit structure (AXs2).

[0168] In one embodiment, a first sub-unit structure (AXs1) may be repeatedly arranged in a first row (N1) along a first direction (e.g., x direction), and a second sub-unit structure (AXs2) may be repeatedly arranged in a second row (N2) along a first direction (e.g., x direction). An oxetic structure (AX) may have a first row (N1) and a second row (N2) repeatedly arranged along a second direction (e.g., y direction). In other words, a plurality of first sub-unit structures (AXs1) may be placed in odd rows of the oxetic structure (AX), and a plurality of second sub-unit structures (AXs2) may be placed in even rows of the oxetic structure (AX).

[0169] In one embodiment, the first sub-unit structure (AXs1) and the second sub-unit structure (AXs2) may be arranged in different rows and staggered from each other, as they each have a reentrant shape. For example, with respect to the first direction (e.g., x-direction), the center (C2) of the second sub-unit structure (AXs2) may be arranged parallel to the boundary pattern (BP) placed between adjacent first sub-unit structures (AXs1). In other words, the center (C1) of each of the plurality of first sub-unit structures (AXs1) may be arranged in the first column (M1) following the second direction (e.g., y-direction), and the center (C2) of each of the plurality of second sub-unit structures (AXs2) may be arranged in the second column (M2) following the second direction (e.g., y-direction). An oxetic structure (AX) may have a first column (M1) and a second column (M2) arranged repeatedly along a first direction (e.g., the x-direction). That is, the center (C1) of a first sub-unit structure (AXs1) may be placed in the odd columns of the oxetic structure (AX), and the center (C2) of a second sub-unit structure (AXs2) may be placed in the even columns of the oxetic structure (AX).

[0170] As previously described, the first sub-unit structure (AXs1) and the second sub-unit structure (AXs2) may have reentrant shapes. In other words, the first sub-unit structure (AXs1) and the second sub-unit structure (AXs2) may each have a shape formed by an isosceles trapezoid shape and an inverse isosceles trapezoid shape meeting at one corner. That is, the first sub-unit structure (AXs1) may have a first-1 division area (AXs11) and a first-2 division area (AXs12) that are symmetrical with respect to a virtual centerline (CL1) following the second direction (e.g., the y-direction). The second sub-unit structure (AXs2) may have a second-1 division area (AXs21) and a second-2 division area (AXs22) that are symmetrical with respect to a virtual centerline (CL2) following the second direction (e.g., the y-direction).

[0171] In one embodiment, the ogzetic structure (AX) may have a structure in which unit structures (AXu) are repeatedly arranged along a first direction (e.g., x direction) and / or a second direction (e.g., y direction). Here, the unit structure (AXu) may be a region formed by combining a first sub-unit structure (AXs1) and a second sub-unit structure (AXs2). For example, the unit structure (AXu) may include a first sub-unit structure (AXs1) placed in row (i) and column (j), a second partition region (AXs22) of a second sub-unit structure (AXs2) placed in row (i+1) and column (j-1), and a first partition region (AXs21) of a second sub-unit structure (AXs2) placed in row (i+1) and column (j+1). That is, a unit structure (AXu) may include a first sub-unit structure (AXs1), a second partition area (AXs22) of a second sub-unit structure (AXs2) disposed adjacent thereto, and a first partition area (AXs21) of another second sub-unit structure (AXs2).

[0172] A unit structure (AXu) may have a third horizontal length (L3) along a first direction (e.g., x-direction) and a third vertical length (H3) along a second direction (e.g., y-direction). The third horizontal length (L3) of the unit structure (AXu) may be equal to the first horizontal length (L1) of the first sub-unit structure (AXs1). The third vertical length (H3) of the unit structure (AXu) may be equal to the sum of the first vertical length (H1) of the first sub-unit structure (AXs1) and the length of the imaginary centerline (CL2) of the second sub-unit structure (AXs2).

[0173] In one embodiment, the ratio of the third horizontal length (L3) to the third vertical length (H3) may be 1:1. This is to ensure that when the auxetic structure (AX) is stretched to a specific length by receiving a tensile force in the first direction (e.g., x direction), it can also be stretched to a similar length in the second direction (e.g., y direction). Additionally, when the display panel is stretched in the first direction (e.g., x direction) and the second direction (e.g., y direction), it may be to reduce or minimize the difference in resistance between the connecting wire extending in the first direction (e.g., x direction) and the connecting wire extending in the second direction (e.g., y direction).

[0174] However, it is not limited to this, and the ratio of the third horizontal length (L3) to the third vertical length (H3) may not be 1:1. In another embodiment, if the third horizontal length (L3) is greater than the third vertical length (H3), the third horizontal length (L3) may be an integer multiple of the third vertical length (H3). In yet another embodiment, if the third vertical length (H3) is greater than the third horizontal length (L3), the third vertical length (H3) may be an integer multiple of the third horizontal length (L3). Of course, the ratio of the third horizontal length (L3) and the third vertical length (H3) can be freely changed so that the spacing of light-emitting elements (LEDs) along the first direction (e.g., x-direction) and the spacing of light-emitting elements (LEDs) along the second direction (e.g., y-direction) can be set equally.

[0175] In one embodiment, an auxetic structure (AX) may include a plurality of openings (OP) and a boundary pattern (BP) that forms a boundary between the plurality of openings (OP). Each of the plurality of openings (OP) may be partitioned by the boundary pattern (BP) and separated from one another. For example, a first sub-unit structure (AXs1) may include a boundary pattern (BP) that creates a reentrant shape and a first opening (OP1) defined by the boundary pattern (BP). A second sub-unit structure (AXs2) may include a boundary pattern (BP) that creates a reentrant shape and a second opening (OP2) defined by the boundary pattern (BP). That is, the first sub-unit structure (AXs1) may have a closed-line shape including the first opening (OP1), and the second sub-unit structure (AXs2) may have a closed-line shape including the second opening (OP2). In one embodiment, the planar area of ​​the first opening (OP1) may be larger than the planar area of ​​the second opening (OP2).

[0176] The first opening (OP1) and the second opening (OP2) can be filled by a lower elastomer layer (100a, FIG. 6a). The elastomer filling the first opening (OP1) and the second opening (OP2) can absorb stress that may be concentrated on the boundary pattern (BP) and disperse the stress applied to the augertic structure (AX).

[0177] A boundary pattern (BP) forming a reentrant shape of a first sub-unit structure (AXs1) may include first to sixth boundary patterns (BP1, BP2, BP3, BP4, BP5, BP6). In other words, the first to sixth boundary patterns (BP1, BP2, BP3, BP4, BP5, BP6) may be integrally connected to form a concave hexagonal shape of the first sub-unit structure (AXs1). For example, the first boundary pattern (BP1) and the fourth boundary pattern (BP4) may extend in a second direction (e.g., y-direction) and be parallel to each other, the second boundary pattern (BP2) and the sixth boundary pattern (BP6) may extend in a third direction (e.g., DR3 direction) and be parallel to each other, and the third boundary pattern (BP3) and the fifth boundary pattern (BP5) may extend in a fourth direction (e.g., DR4 direction) and be parallel to each other.

[0178] The first boundary pattern (BP1) and the second boundary pattern (BP2) may be integrally connected to form an acute angle, the second boundary pattern (BP2) and the third boundary pattern (BP3) may be integrally connected to form a concave angle, and the third boundary pattern (BP3) and the fourth boundary pattern (BP4) may be integrally connected to form an acute angle. Similarly, the fourth boundary pattern (BP4) and the sixth boundary pattern (BP6) may be integrally connected to form an acute angle, the sixth boundary pattern (BP6) and the fifth boundary pattern (BP5) may be integrally connected to form a concave angle, and the fifth boundary pattern (BP5) and the first boundary pattern (BP1) may be integrally connected to form an acute angle. The second sub-unit structure (AXs2) may also have a boundary pattern structure similar to that of the first sub-unit structure (AXs1).

[0179] When the augertic structure (AX) is stretched in the first direction (e.g., x-direction) by receiving a tensile force in the first direction, the distance between the first boundary pattern (BP1) and the fourth boundary pattern (BP4) may increase. At this time, as the distance between the first boundary pattern (BP1) and the fourth boundary pattern (BP4) increases, the second, third, fifth, and sixth boundary patterns (BP2, BP3, BP5, BP6) that are integrally connected to them may also move away from the center (C1). For example, when a tensile force in the first direction (e.g., x-direction) is applied to the augertic structure (AX), the size of the angle (θ1) formed by the first boundary pattern (BP1) and the fifth boundary pattern (BP5) may gradually increase. That is, as the angle (θ1) between the first boundary pattern (BP1) and the fifth boundary pattern (BP5) widens, the distance between the second boundary pattern (BP2) and the fifth boundary pattern (BP5) can also widen. Consequently, when the aggetic structure (AX) is stretched in the first direction (e.g., x direction), it can also be stretched in the second direction (e.g., y direction). That is, the aggetic structure can have a negative Poisson ratio.

[0180] Since the boundary pattern (BP) of the aggetic structure (AX) must be able to perform the role of controlling the stretching of the display panel (10), it may have a large modulus. In one embodiment, the modulus of the aggetic structure (AX) may be 3 GPa or more. For example, the modulus of the aggetic structure (AX) may be 150 times or more the modulus of the substrate used in the process of forming the display panel (10). As the boundary pattern (BP) is composed of a material with high rigidity, it can prevent shrinkage along the second direction (e.g., y-direction) of the display layer (200, FIG. 6a) placed on top of the stretching control layer (100b) by a force in the opposite direction. For example, the boundary pattern (BP) may include polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) or polyurethane (PU). In one embodiment, the modulus of the boundary pattern (BP) can be increased by adjusting the mixing ratio of the cross-linker included in the boundary pattern (BP).

[0181] FIG. 11 is a schematic plan view of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 12 may be a cross-section of the display panel of FIG. 11 taken along the line I-I'.

[0182] Referring to FIG. 11, the display panel (10, FIG. 1) may include a display area (DA) and a non-display area (NDA). At this time, the stretching control layer (100b) may include a display area (DA) that overlaps with the light-emitting element (LED) of the display layer (200, FIG. 6a), a driving circuit area (DCA) that overlaps with the stage (ST) of the gate driving circuit (GDC, FIG. 4), and an outermost area (OMA) that is outer from the gate driving circuit (GDC, FIG. 4). The driving circuit area (DCA) and the outermost area (OMA) may be a non-display area (NDA).

[0183] In one embodiment, a light-emitting element (LED) may be positioned to overlap with each of the multiple openings (OP) of an auxetic structure (AX). Specifically, the light-emitting element (LED) may be positioned to overlap with the first opening (OP1) of a first sub-unit structure (AXs1), and the light-emitting element (LED) may not overlap with the second opening (OP2) of a second sub-unit structure (AXs2). In other words, the light-emitting element (LED) may be positioned on odd rows and odd columns where the first sub-unit structure (AXs1) is positioned. This is to ensure that the light-emitting elements (LED) are positioned only in specific rows and specific columns where the first sub-unit structures (AXs1) are arranged, so that the light-emitting elements (LED) are not positioned in a zigzag shape. As the light-emitting elements (LED) are arranged in a line, the arrangement of the light-emitting elements (LED) can be maintained stably even when the display panel (10, FIG. 1) is stretched.

[0184] In one embodiment, the light-emitting element (LED) may be positioned to overlap with the center (C1, FIG. 9) of the first sub-unit structure (AXs1). As previously described, when the display panel (10, FIG. 1) is stretched, stress may be concentrated on the boundary pattern (BP) of the aggetic structure (AX), and the elastomer placed within the opening (OP) may absorb the stress. Specifically, among the boundary patterns (BP) of the aggetic structure (AX), stress may be concentrated on the boundary pattern (BP) that extends in the direction in which the display panel (10, FIG. 1) is stretched. Accordingly, the strain may be smallest at the center (C1, FIG. 9) of the first opening (OP1) of the first sub-unit structure (AXs1). When the light-emitting element (LED) is positioned to overlap with the center (C1, FIG. 9), the light-emitting element (LED) can be driven stably even when the display panel (10, FIG. 1) is stretched.

[0185] Referring to FIG. 12, a display layer (200) may be disposed on a support layer (100), and an upper elastomer layer (300) may be disposed on the display layer (200). In one embodiment, the support layer (100) may have a structure in which a lower elastomer layer (100a), a stretch control layer (100b), and an auxiliary elastomer layer (100c) are sequentially stacked. In another embodiment, as described in FIG. 6b, the support layer (100) may include only the lower elastomer layer (100a) and the stretch control layer (100b). The stretch control layer (100b) may have a structure in which a boundary pattern (BP) of an objetic structure (AX, FIG. 11) is embedded in the lower elastomer layer (100a) and the auxiliary elastomer layer (100c).

[0186] A support layer (100) may have pixel regions (11) and connection regions (12) between the pixel regions (11). A pixel circuit (PC) and a light-emitting element (LED) connected to the pixel circuit (PC) may be disposed on the pixel regions (11) of the support layer (100).

[0187] A buffer layer (111) is disposed on the support layer (100), and a pixel circuit (PC) can be disposed on the buffer layer (111). The buffer layer (111) may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, or silicon oxynitride.

[0188] A thin-film transistor (TFT) may include a semiconductor layer (Act), a gate electrode (GE), a source electrode (SE), and a drain electrode (DE). FIG. 12 illustrates a thin-film transistor (TFT) of the top gate type in which the gate electrode (GE) is placed on the semiconductor layer (Act) with the gate insulating layer (113) in between, but according to other embodiments, the thin-film transistor (TFT) may be of the bottom gate type.

[0189] The semiconductor layer (Act) may include polysilicon. Alternatively, the semiconductor layer (Act) may include amorphous silicon, oxide semiconductor, organic semiconductor, etc. The gate electrode (GE) may include a metal thin film composed of a low-resistance metal material. The gate electrode (GE) may include a conductive material including molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), titanium (Ti), etc., and may be formed as a multilayer or single layer including the above materials. For example, the gate electrode (GE) may be provided as a metal thin film formed as a triple layer of a titanium (Ti) / aluminum (Al) / titanium (Ti) structure.

[0190] The gate insulating layer (113) between the semiconductor layer (Act) and the gate electrode (GE) may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide, nitrogen oxide, silicon oxynitride, aluminum oxide, or titanium oxide. The gate insulating layer (113) may be a single layer or a multilayer containing the aforementioned materials.

[0191] The source electrode (SE) and the drain electrode (DE) may be located on the same layer, for example, the second interlayer insulating layer (117), and may contain the same material. The source electrode (SE) and the drain electrode (DE) may contain a metal thin film composed of a low-resistance metal material. The source electrode (SE) and the drain electrode (DE) may contain a conductive material including molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), titanium (Ti), etc., and may be formed as a multilayer or single layer containing the above materials. For example, the source electrode (SE) and the drain electrode (DE), like the gate electrode (GE), may be provided with a metal thin film formed as a triple layer of titanium (Ti) / aluminum (Al) / titanium (Ti) structure. The second interlayer insulating layer (117) may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide, nitrogen oxide, silicon oxynitride, aluminum oxide, or titanium oxide, and may be a single layer or a multilayer containing the aforementioned material.

[0192] A storage capacitor (Cst) may include a first electrode (CE1) and a second electrode (CE2) that overlap with a first interlayer insulating layer (115) in between. The storage capacitor (Cst) may overlap with a thin-film transistor (TFT). In this regard, FIG. 12 illustrates that the gate electrode (GE) of the thin-film transistor (TFT) is the first electrode (CE1) of the storage capacitor (Cst). In another embodiment, the storage capacitor (Cst) may not overlap with the thin-film transistor (TFT). The storage capacitor (Cst) may be covered by a second interlayer insulating layer (117).

[0193] The first interlayer insulating layer (115) may be disposed between the gate insulating layer (113) and the second interlayer insulating layer (117). The first interlayer insulating layer (115) may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide, nitrogen oxide, silicon oxynitride, aluminum oxide, or titanium oxide, and may be a single layer or a multilayer containing the aforementioned material.

[0194] The second electrode (CE2) of the storage capacitor (Cst) may include a conductive material and may be formed as a multilayer or single layer. The second electrode (CE2) may include a metal thin film composed of a low-resistance metal material. The second electrode (CE2) may include a conductive material including molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), titanium (Ti), etc., and may be formed as a multilayer or single layer including the above materials. For example, the second electrode (CE2) may be provided as a metal thin film formed as a triple layer of a titanium (Ti) / aluminum (Al) / titanium (Ti) structure.

[0195] The first organic insulating layer (121) may be disposed on the second interlayer insulating layer (117), and the second organic insulating layer (123) may be disposed on the first organic insulating layer (121). The first organic insulating layer (121) and the second organic insulating layer (123) may each include an organic insulating material such as polyimide.

[0196] In the outer region of the pixel region (11) adjacent to the connection region (12), a sub-organic insulating layer (119) may be interposed between the second interlayer insulating layer (117) and the first organic insulating layer (121). Although not shown in FIG. 12, wiring connecting the connection wiring (WL) and the pixel circuit (PC) may be arranged on the sub-organic insulating layer (119). The sub-organic insulating layer (119) may include an organic insulating material such as polyimide.

[0197] A first connecting electrode (CM1) may be disposed on the first organic insulating layer (121), and a second connecting electrode (CM2) may be disposed on the second organic insulating layer (123). The first connecting electrode (CM1) and the second connecting electrode (CM2) can electrically connect a thin-film transistor (TFT) and a light-emitting element (LED). The first connecting electrode (CM1) and the second connecting electrode (CM2) may include a metal thin film composed of a low-resistance metal material. The first connecting electrode (CM1) and the second connecting electrode (CM2) may include a conductive material including molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), titanium (Ti), etc., and may be formed as a multilayer or single layer including the above materials. For example, the first connecting electrode (CM1) and the second connecting electrode (CM2) may be provided with a metal thin film formed as a triple layer of titanium (Ti) / aluminum (Al) / titanium (Ti) structure.

[0198] A second voltage line (VSSL) is disposed on a second organic insulating layer (123), and a third organic insulating layer (125) may be disposed on the second organic insulating layer (123) and the second voltage line (VSSL). The third organic insulating layer (123) may include an organic insulating material such as polyimide. The second voltage line (VSSL) is connected to a common voltage supply line (W13, FIG. 3) to transmit a second power supply voltage (VSS, FIG. 7a) to a second electrode (238). The second voltage line (VSSL) may include a conductive material and may be formed as a multilayer or a single layer.

[0199] The first electrode pad (241) and the second electrode pad (242) may be disposed on the third organic insulating layer (125). The first electrode pad (241) may be electrically connected to a thin-film transistor (TFT) through a first connecting electrode (CM1) between the first organic insulating layer (121) and the second organic insulating layer (123) and a second connecting electrode (CM2) between the second organic insulating layer (123) and the third organic insulating layer (125). The light-emitting element (LED) on the first electrode pad (241) and the second electrode pad (242) may be the same as the inorganic light-emitting diode (230) described earlier with reference to FIG. 8a. A light-emitting element (LED), which is an inorganic light-emitting diode (230, FIG. 8a), may include a first semiconductor layer (231), a second semiconductor layer (232), an intermediate layer (233) between the first semiconductor layer (231) and the second semiconductor layer (232), a first electrode (235) electrically connected to the first semiconductor layer (231), and a second electrode (238) electrically connected to the second semiconductor layer (232). The light-emitting element (LED) may be covered by a protective layer (240). The protective layer (240) may include an organic insulating material such as polyimide.

[0200] A connecting wire (WL) may be disposed on the connecting area (12) of the support layer (100). The connecting wire (WL) may be a signal line (e.g., gate line, data line, etc.) for providing an electrical signal to a thin-film transistor (TFT) of a pixel circuit (PC), or a voltage line (e.g., first voltage line, initial voltage line, etc.) for providing voltage. The connecting area (12) may be the area where the most deformation occurs when the display panel (10) is stretched. Accordingly, the connecting wire (WL) may include a material that possesses electrical characteristics and also has appropriate elasticity (e.g., excellent elasticity). In one embodiment, the connecting wire (WL) may include a metal nanostructure and an elastic polymer. In another embodiment, the connecting wire (WL) may include a liquid metal. However, it is not limited to this, and the connecting wire (WL) may include a material having a modulus smaller than that of the conductive layer included in the thin-film transistor (TFT).

[0201] Since the connection area (12) of the support layer (100) may undergo significant deformation, organic insulating layers may be disposed on the connection area (12). For example, a sub-organic insulating layer (119), a first organic insulating layer (121), a second organic insulating layer (123), and a third organic insulating layer (125) disposed in the pixel area (11) may be extended and disposed on the connection area (12).

[0202] An upper elastomer layer (300) may be disposed on the light-emitting element (LED) and the connecting wire (WL). The upper elastomer layer (300) covers the light-emitting element (LED) and the connecting wire (WL) to absorb stress that may be transmitted to the light-emitting element (LED) and the connecting wire (WL). In one embodiment, the upper elastomer layer (300) may contain the same material as the lower elastomer layer (100a). However, it is not limited thereto, and in another embodiment, the upper elastomer layer (300) may contain a different material from the lower elastomer layer (100a).

[0203] As previously explained, a light-emitting element (LED) can be positioned to overlap with the first opening (OP1) of the auxetic structure (AX, FIG. 11). In other words, the first opening (OP1) can overlap with the pixel area (11). The connection area (12) is a portion surrounding the pixel area (11) and may be an area where the connection wiring (WL) is positioned. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the second opening (OP2) can overlap with the connection wiring (WL). In other words, the second opening (OP2) can overlap with the connection area (12). However, a portion of the connection area (12) may overlap with the second opening (OP2), and the remaining portion of the connection area (12) may also overlap with the first opening (OP1).

[0204] Referring again to FIG. 11, a driving circuit region (DCA) may be placed at the outer edge of the display region (DA). The gate driving circuit (GDC, FIG. 4) may include a plurality of stages (ST). In one embodiment, each stage (ST) may be positioned to overlap with the first opening (OP1) of the first sub-unit structure (AXs1). As with the light-emitting element (LED), each stage (ST) may be positioned to overlap with the center (C1, FIG. 9) of the first opening (OP1). This may be so that each stage (ST) is positioned at the location with the least strain.

[0205] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, a plurality of stages (ST) may be arranged to surround a display area (DA). However, this is not limited thereto, and in other embodiments, a plurality of stages (ST) may be arranged only on both sides of the display area (DA). That is, a driving circuit area (DCA) may be arranged only on the left and right sides of the display area (DA), and a driving circuit area (DCA) may not be arranged on the upper and lower sides of the display area (DA).

[0206] An outermost region (OMA) may be placed at the outer edge of the driving circuit region (DCA). Light-emitting elements (LEDs), stages (STs), etc., may not be placed in the outermost region (OMA). That is, the first opening (OP1) of the outermost region (OMA) may not overlap with light-emitting elements (LEDs) and stages (STs). Such a first opening (OP1) of the outermost region (OMA) may also be referred to as a dummy opening (DMOP). When the display panel (10, FIG. 1) is stretched, the outermost region of the stretching control layer (100b) may be the region where stress is most concentrated. Accordingly, a dummy opening (DMOP) may be placed at the outermost region of the stretching control layer (100b) to reduce or minimize the impact received by light-emitting elements (LEDs), etc.

[0207] FIGS. 13a to 13g are schematic perspective views illustrating embodiments of an electronic device including a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0208] Referring to FIG. 13a, a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention may be utilized in a wearable electronic device (3100) that can be worn on a part of a user's body. The wearable electronic device (3100) may include a body part (3110) and a display part (3120) provided in the body part (3110). The display device according to embodiments of the present invention may be used as the display part (3120) of the wearable electronic device (3100). As illustrated in FIG. 13a, the wearable electronic device (3100) may be modified. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (3100) may be used as a smart watch or a smartphone depending on the user's choice.

[0209] FIG. 13b illustrates a medical electronic device (3200). In one embodiment, the medical electronic device (3200) may include a body part (3210) and a light-emitting part (3220). A display device according to embodiments of the present invention may be used as the light-emitting part (3220) of the medical electronic device (3200). The light-emitting part (3220) may emit light of a specific wavelength band (e.g., infrared, visible light, etc.) to the patient's body. In one embodiment, the body part (3210) may have a stretchable fiber material and may have a structure that can be worn on the body of the user of the light-emitting part.

[0210] FIG. 13c illustrates an educational electronic device (3300). In one embodiment, the educational electronic device (3300) may include a display unit (3320) provided within a frame (3310). The display unit (3320) may utilize a display device according to embodiments of the present invention. The display unit (3320) may provide images such as a sea with waves, a snow-covered mountain, or a volcano with flowing lava, wherein the display unit (3320) may extend in the height direction (e.g., z-direction) to reflect the height of the waves, mountain, or volcano. In some embodiments, a portion of the display unit (3320) may sequentially vary in height along the direction of the lava flow to show the movement of the lava in three dimensions. The educational electronic device (3300) may include a plurality of pins (or stroke units, 3330) arranged on the back of the display unit (3320) so that the display unit (3320) extends in the height direction. The pins (3330) can be implemented to move along a third direction (e.g., z direction or -z direction) so that the image displayed on the display unit (3320) has a three-dimensional height. FIG. 13c describes an educational electronic device (3300), but its use is not limited as long as it provides certain image information.

[0211] The electronic device illustrated in FIGS. 13a to 13c describes an electronic device whose shape may be variable, but the present invention is not limited thereto. As in the embodiments described below, the display device according to the embodiments of the present invention may be used in an electronic device in which a portion capable of displaying an image (e.g., a screen) is fixed.

[0212] FIG. 13d illustrates a robot (3400) as another electronic device in one embodiment of the present invention. The robot (3400) can move or perceive objects using a camera unit (3440) and can display a predetermined image to a user through a display unit (3420, 3430). In some embodiments, the display devices according to one embodiment of the present invention can be assembled to a body frame having a hemispherical shape, as they can be extended in various directions as described above, and thus the robot (3400) may include a hemispherical display unit (3420, 3430).

[0213] FIG. 13e illustrates a vehicle display device (3500) as another electronic device in one embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle display device (3500) may include a cluster (3510), a Center Information Display (CID) (3520), and / or a co-driver display (3530). Since the display device according to an embodiment of the present invention can be extended in various directions, it can be used for the cluster (3510), the Center Information Display (CID) (3520), and / or the co-driver display (3530) without being constrained by the shape of the vehicle's internal frame.

[0214] FIG. 13e illustrates the cluster (3510), the Center Information Display (CID) (3520), and / or the co-driver display (3530) being separated, but the invention is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, two or more selected from the cluster (3510), the Center Information Display (CID) (3520), and the co-driver display (3530) may be connected as a single unit.

[0215] In some embodiments, the vehicle display device (3500) may include a button (3540) capable of displaying a predetermined image. Referring to the enlarged view of FIG. 13e, the hemispherical button (3540) may include an object (3542) that provides a sense of use of the button (3540) while moving in the z-direction or -z-direction, and a display device placed on the object (3542). In some embodiments, if the object (3542) has a three-dimensionally rounded surface, the display device may also have a three-dimensionally rounded surface.

[0216] FIG. 13f illustrates that an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention is an electronic device for advertising or display (3600). In some embodiments, the electronic device for advertising or display (3600) may be installed on a fixed structure (3610), such as a wall or a column. If the structure (3610) includes an uneven surface as shown in FIG. 13f, the electronic device for advertising or display (3600) may also be placed along the uneven surface of the structure (3610). In some embodiments, the electronic device for advertising or display (3600) may be installed on the structure (3610) using a heat-shrink film or the like.

[0217] FIG. 13g illustrates that an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention is a controller (3700). The controller (3700) may include an image-type button. For example, the controller (3700) may include first to third button areas (3720, 3730, 3740) in which a portion of the display portion (3710) protrudes in the z-direction or protrudes in the -z-direction (or is recessed in the z-direction). In some embodiments, the first and third button areas (3720, 3740) may protrude in the z-direction, and the second button area (3730) may protrude in the -z-direction (or be recessed in the z-direction).

[0218] Although the present invention has been described with reference to an embodiment illustrated in the drawings, this is merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and variations of the embodiments are possible therefrom. Accordingly, the true scope of technical protection of the present invention should be determined by the technical spirit of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A support layer comprising a lower elastomer layer and a stretch control layer disposed on the lower elastomer layer, and comprising a planar display area and a non-display area surrounding the display area; and A display layer comprising a pixel circuit disposed on a display area of ​​the support layer and a light-emitting element electrically connected to the pixel circuit; and The above-mentioned stretching control layer comprises an auxetic structure including a first sub-unit structure and a second sub-unit structure having a planar area smaller than that of the first sub-unit structure, and The above first sub-unit structure is composed of a plurality of units and is arranged continuously in a first row along a first direction, and The above second sub-unit structure is composed of a plurality of units and is arranged continuously in a second row following the first direction, and A display panel in which the first row and the second row are repeatedly arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned auxetic structure is a display panel having a negative Poisson ratio.

3. In Paragraph 1, A display panel in which the first sub-unit structure and the second sub-unit structure each have a concave polygonal shape.

4. In Paragraph 1, A display panel in which the first sub-unit structure and the second sub-unit structure each have a re-entrant shape.

5. In Paragraph 1, A display panel in which the first sub-unit structure and the second sub-unit structure are arranged staggered relative to each other with respect to the first direction.

6. In Paragraph 1, The first sub-unit structure includes a first horizontal length along a first direction and a first vertical length along a second direction, The above-mentioned second sub-unit structure includes a second horizontal length along the first direction and a second vertical length along the second direction, and A display panel in which the first vertical length is greater than the second vertical length.

7. In Paragraph 6, A display panel in which the first horizontal length is the same as the second horizontal length.

8. In Paragraph 6, A display panel comprising a first divided area and a second divided area that are symmetrical to each other with respect to a virtual centerline that extends along the second direction and is positioned at the center of the second sub-unit structure.

9. In Paragraph 8, A display panel in which the sum of the first vertical length and the length of the virtual centerline is equal to the first horizontal length.

10. In Paragraph 8, The above-mentioned ogzetic structure has a structure in which unit structures composed of a combination of the first sub-unit structure and the second sub-unit structure are repeatedly arranged. The above unit structure is, The first subunit structure placed in the nth row and the mth column; The second partition area of ​​the second subunit structure disposed in the n+1th row and the m-1th column; and A display panel comprising the first divided area of ​​the second sub-unit structure arranged in the n+1 row and m+1 column.

11. In Paragraph 10, The above unit structure has a third horizontal length along the first direction and a third vertical length along the second direction, A display panel in which the third horizontal length and the third vertical length are in a 1:1 ratio.

12. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned ogzetic structure includes a plurality of openings and a boundary pattern forming a boundary between the plurality of openings, and A display panel in which the modulus of the boundary pattern of the above-mentioned ogzetic structure is 3 GPa or greater.

13. In Paragraph 12, The above plurality of openings are filled with the lower elastomer layer, and A display panel in which, in a planar form, the light-emitting element overlaps with the center of each of the plurality of openings.

14. In Paragraph 12, The above plurality of openings include a first opening and a second opening having different planar areas, and The first sub-unit structure has a closed line shape including the first opening, The second sub-unit structure has a closed line shape including the second opening, A display panel in which the light-emitting element overlaps with the first opening on a planar surface.

15. In Paragraph 14, The above display area is, A pixel area where the above-mentioned light-emitting element is arranged; and A connection area is provided that surrounds the pixel area and connects the adjacent pixel circuits. The above connecting wiring is a stretchable display panel.

16. In Paragraph 15, A display panel having, in a planar manner, the pixel area overlaps with the first opening, and the connecting area overlaps with a portion of the second opening and the first opening, excluding the area that overlaps with the pixel area.

17. In Paragraph 12, A gate driving circuit comprising a plurality of stages disposed on a non-display area of ​​the support layer and transmitting a gate signal to the pixel circuit; further comprising Each of the plurality of stages of the gate driving circuit is arranged to overlap with each of the plurality of openings, and A display panel comprising a plurality of openings, the plurality of openings including a dummy opening positioned outside the gate driving circuit.

18. In Paragraph 1, It further includes an upper elastomer layer disposed on the above-mentioned display layer and covering the light-emitting element; A display panel comprising: an auxiliary elastomer layer interposed between the stretching control layer and the display layer in the above support layer.

19. Display panel; and A lower cover that forms the exterior of the above-mentioned display panel and has an opening that exposes a portion of the above-mentioned display panel on the front surface of the electronic device; comprising The above display panel is, A support layer comprising a lower elastomer layer and a stretch control layer disposed on the lower elastomer layer, a planar display area and a non-display area surrounding the display area; and A display layer comprising a pixel circuit disposed on a display area of ​​the support layer and a light-emitting element electrically connected to the pixel circuit; and The above-mentioned stretching control layer comprises an auxetic structure including a first sub-unit structure and a second sub-unit structure having a planar area smaller than that of the first sub-unit structure, and The above first sub-unit structure is composed of a plurality of units and is arranged continuously in a first row along a first direction, and The above second sub-unit structure is composed of a plurality of units and is arranged continuously in a second row following the first direction, and An electronic device in which the first row and the second row are repeatedly arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction.

20. In Paragraph 19, The second sub-unit structure includes a first divided area and a second divided area that are symmetrical to each other with respect to a virtual centerline positioned at the center of the second sub-unit structure and follows the second direction. The above-mentioned ogzetic structure has a structure in which unit structures composed of a combination of the first sub-unit structure and the second sub-unit structure are repeatedly arranged. The above unit structure is, The first subunit structure placed in the nth row and the mth column; The second partition area of ​​the second subunit structure disposed in the n+1th row and the m-1th column; and It includes the first partition region of the second subunit structure disposed in the n+1 row and m+1 column, and The above unit structure has a third horizontal length along the first direction and a third vertical length along the second direction, An electronic device in which the third horizontal length and the third vertical length are in a 1:1 ratio.

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