Display Panel Cathode Connection for Narrow-Bezel Layouts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing display apparatuses face challenges in reducing the inactive area (bezel) size due to the need for additional space for components like the upper electrode and lower voltage supply line connections, which are vulnerable to moisture permeation, limiting the reduction of the bezel area.
Innovation Solution
A new structure is introduced where the upper electrode and lower voltage supply line connection is facilitated through an intermediate connection electrode within the gate-in-panel area, using an isolation area of the organic insulation layer to disconnect paths for moisture permeation, and removing planarization and bank layers in the inactive area to minimize bezel space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the upper electrode and lower voltage supply line are connected outside the gate-in-panel area, then the connection structure is simpler, but the inactive area (bezel) size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the connection from a planar arrangement (outside the gate-in-panel area) to a three-dimensional arrangement by routing the connection through vertical layers (through the organic insulation layer and gate-in-panel area), thereby reducing the horizontal footprint of the inactive area while maintaining the connection functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The connection structure is nested within the gate-in-panel area by routing the upper electrode connection through the organic insulation layer and into the gate-in-panel region, effectively placing one structural element inside another to minimize the overall inactive area
2Area of stationary object
If the connection structure is placed closer to the trimming line to reduce bezel area, then the inactive area is reduced, but the vulnerability to moisture permeation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The organic insulation layer serves as a protective film that is selectively removed only in the contact area, creating a moisture barrier that follows the contours of the connection structure and provides protection while allowing necessary electrical connections
Solution Approach 2:
The organic insulation layer is removed locally only in the specific contact area where electrical connection is needed, while remaining intact in all other areas to provide moisture protection, creating a spatially differentiated structure with different properties in different locations
Data Source
AI summary
A display apparatus of the present disclosure includes a display panel including an active area and an inactive area. The active area includes an anode electrode, an organic light-emitting layer, and a cathode electrode. The inactive area includes a gate driving portion and a crack stopper pattern, and further includes a connection area disposed in an area adjacent to the gate driving portion. In the connection area, the cathode electrode and a connection electrode may be in contact with each other.