Touch sensing unit and display device including same

A touch sensing unit includes a first electrode including a plurality of first main patterns arranged in a first direction and a first outer pattern arranged on one sides of the plurality of first main patterns, a second electrode including a plurality of second main patterns arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction and a second outer pattern arranged on one sides of the plurality of second main patterns, a first compensation pattern extending along an edge of the first outer pattern, and a first signal wire connected to at least one of the first outer pattern and the first compensation pattern. The first compensation pattern includes a first compensation connection part protruding toward the first outer pattern and connected to the first outer pattern.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application claims priority under 35 USC § 119 to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0128683 filed on Sep. 29, 2021 in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The disclosure relates to a display and, more particularly, to a touch sensing unit and a display device including the same.

DISCUSSION OF THE RELATED ART

Display devices have been applied to various electronic devices such as smart phones, digital cameras, laptop computers, vehicle navigation systems, smart watches, and smart televisions. Examples of display devices may include liquid crystal display (LCD) devices, field emission display (FED) devices, organic light emitting diode (OLED) display devices, and the like.

Many devices such as smart phones and tablet computers utilize touch screen display device that incorporate a touch sensing unit. The touch sensing unit determines whether a touch of a user is input using a plurality of sensor electrodes and calculates a corresponding location as touch input coordinates.

As planar shapes of the display devices are diversified, the areas of sensing electrodes may differ from each other. For example, when the display device has a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or an atypical planar shape, the sensing electrode located at an edge part (or an outer side) of the display device may have a shape that is equivalent to only a portion of a sensing electrode located at an inner side of the display device. When the sensing electrodes have different areas, touch sensing signals sensed by the sensing electrodes may be different. In this case, a touch may be recognized even when no actual touch has occurred.

SUMMARY

A touch sensing unit includes a first electrode including a plurality of first main patterns arranged in a first direction and a first outer pattern arranged on one side of the plurality of first main patterns. A second electrode including a plurality of second main patterns is arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction and a second outer pattern is arranged on one side of the plurality of second main patterns. A first compensation pattern extends along an edge of the first outer pattern. A first signal wire is connected to the first outer pattern and/or the first compensation pattern. The first compensation pattern includes a first compensation connection part protruding toward the first outer pattern and connected to the first outer pattern.

The first compensation connection part may overlap the first outer pattern in a plan view.

The touch sensing unit may further include a touch sensing area that senses a touch, and a touch peripheral area disposed around the touch sensing area. The first electrode and the second electrode may be arranged in the touch sensing area, and the first signal wire may be disposed in the touch peripheral area.

The first compensation pattern may include a first compensation peripheral part disposed between the first outer pattern and the first signal wire.

The first compensation peripheral part may be disposed within the touch peripheral area.

The touch sensing unit may further include a second compensation pattern extending along an edge of the second outer pattern, and a second signal wire connected to the second outer pattern and/or the second compensation pattern. The first compensation peripheral part may be disposed between the first signal wire and the second signal wire.

The touch sensing unit may further include a guard wire disposed between the first signal wire and the second signal wire.

An area of the first compensation pattern may be greater than an area of the first outer pattern.

An area of the first outer pattern may be smaller than an area of the first main pattern.

The touch sensing unit may further include a substrate, a first touch conductive layer disposed on the substrate, a first touch insulating layer disposed on the first touch conductive layer, and a second touch conductive layer disposed on the first touch insulating layer. The first touch conductive layer may include the first signal wire and the second signal wire, and the second touch conductive layer may include the first main pattern, the second main pattern, the first outer pattern, and the second outer pattern.

The second outer pattern may include a protrusion part protruding toward the first outer pattern.

The second outer pattern may be disposed between the first compensation pattern and the first main pattern in the second direction.

A touch sensing unit includes a first electrode including a plurality of first main patterns arranged in a first direction and a first outer pattern arranged on one side of the plurality of first main patterns. A second electrode including a plurality of second main patterns is arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction and a second outer pattern is arranged on one side of the plurality of second main patterns. A third electrode includes a plurality of third main patterns arranged in the first direction and a third outer pattern arranged on one sides of the plurality of third main patterns. A first compensation pattern extends along edges of the first outer pattern and the third outer pattern. The first compensation pattern is electrically connected to the first outer pattern.

The first electrode and the third electrode may be adjacent to each other in the second direction.

A touch sensing unit may further include a second compensation pattern connected to the second outer pattern. The second compensation pattern may be arranged along edges of the first outer pattern, the second outer pattern, and the third outer pattern.

A display device includes a display panel including a light emitting element layer including light emitting elements that emit light and a touch sensing layer disposed on the light emitting element layer, and a window disposed on the display panel and including a light blocking member. The touch sensing layer includes: a first electrode including a plurality of first main patterns arranged in a first direction and a first outer pattern arranged on one side of the plurality of first main patterns, a second electrode including a plurality of second main patterns arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction and a second outer pattern arranged on one side of the plurality of second main patterns, and a first compensation pattern connected to the first outer pattern. The first compensation pattern overlaps the light blocking member.

The first compensation pattern may include a first compensation peripheral part extending along an edge of the first outer pattern and a first compensation connection part protruding from the first compensation peripheral part to the first outer pattern and connected to the first outer pattern.

The first compensation peripheral part may overlap the light blocking member.

At least a portion of the first compensation connection part may overlap the light blocking member.

At least another portion of the first compensation connection part may overlap the first outer pattern.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

The invention will be described with reference to perspective views, cross-sectional views, and/or plan views, in which various embodiments of the invention are shown.

Hereinafter, detailed embodiments of the disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG.1is a plan view of a display device according to one embodiment of the disclosure, andFIG.2is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display panel according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, a first direction DR1and a second direction DR2intersect each other. The first direction DR1may be a vertical direction of a display device1, and the second direction DR2may be a horizontal direction of the display device1, but the embodiments of the specification are not necessarily limited thereto. In the following embodiments, one side of the first direction DR1refers to an upward direction in a plan view, the other side of the first direction DR1refers to a downward direction in a plan view, one side of the second direction DR2refers to a rightward direction in a plan view, and the other side of the second direction DR2refers to a leftward direction in a plan view.

A third direction DR3is a direction intersecting a plane on which the first direction DR1and the second direction DR2are placed and perpendicularly intersects both the first direction DR1and the second direction DR2. However, it should be understood that directions described in the embodiments refer to relative directions, and the embodiments are not necessarily limited to the described directions.

Unless otherwise defined, in the specification, the terms “upper part” and “upper surface” expressed with respect to the third direction DR3refer to a side of a display surface with respect to a display panel10, and the terms “lower part,” “lower surface,” and “rear surface” refer to a side opposite to the display surface with respect to the display panel10.

Referring toFIGS.1and2, the display device1may include various electronic devices that provide a display screen. Although the disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto, examples of the display device may include a mobile phone, a smart phone, a tablet computer, a mobile communication terminal, an electronic notebook, an electronic book, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable multimedia player (PMP), a vehicle navigation device, an ultra mobile PC (UMPC), a television, a game console, a smart watch, a head mount display (HMD), a computer monitor, a laptop, a car dashboard, a digital camera, a camcorder, an external billboard, an electronic billboard, various medical devices, various inspection device, various home appliances, such as a refrigerator or a washing machine, including display regions, an Internet of Things (IoT) device, and the like.

The display device1may include a non-quadrilateral shape. The non-quadrilateral shape may be, for example, a circular shape, an elliptical shape, a polygonal shape of which a part has a circular shape, a quadrilateral shape having round-shaped corners, and the like. In the embodiment, it is exemplified that the display device1includes a circular shape in a plan view.

The display device1may include the display panel10, a panel drive unit20, and a circuit board30.

The display panel10may include a display area DA on which an image is displayed and a non-display area on which an image is not displayed.

The display area DA of the display panel10may include a plurality of pixels for displaying an image and may overlap a touch sensing area (“TSA” inFIG.4) in which a touch input is sensed, which will be described below.

The non-display area NDA of the display panel10may be disposed around the display area DA (e.g., the non-display area NDA may at least partially surround the display area DA). The non-display area NDA may be a bezel area. Signal wires or driving circuits for applying a signal to the display area DA or the touch sensing area TSA may be arranged in the non-display area NDA. However, the disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto, and for example, the non-display area NDA might not be disposed in a peripheral area of the display area DA.

In one embodiment of the disclosure, the non-display area NDA might not overlap the touch sensing area TSA. In an embodiment of the disclosure, a part of the non-display area NDA may overlap the touch sensing area TSA.

The display area DA may have a non-rectangular shape. The non-quadrilateral shape may be, for example, a circular shape, an elliptical shape, a polygonal shape of which a part has a circular shape, a quadrilateral shape having round-shaped corners, and the like. In the embodiment, it is exemplified that the display area DA has a circular shape in a plan view, but the disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto.

The display panel10may include a main region MR, a bending region BR in which the display panel is bent, a sub-region SR protruding from the bending region BR. The main region MR may have a shape substantially similar to an exterior of the display device1in a plan view. At least a part of the main region MR may have a circular shape in a plan view.

The main region MR may include the display area DA. The display area DA may be disposed inside the main region MR. In one embodiment of the disclosure, a peripheral edge portion of the display area DA and the entire sub-region SR in the main region MR may be the non-display area NDA. However, the disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto, and at least a portion of the bending region BR or the sub-region SR may include the display area DA.

The bending region BR is connected to the other side of the main region MR in the first direction DR1. In the bending region BR, the display panel10may be bent with a curvature in a downward direction in a thickness direction, for example, in a direction opposite to the display surface.

The sub-region SR may extend from the bending region BR and protrude from the main region MR to the other side in the first direction DR1. The sub-region SR of the bent display panel10may overlap the display area DA in the thickness direction, but the disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto.

The display panel10may be divided, with respect to the bending region BR, into the main region MR located on one side of the bending region BR in the first direction DR1and the sub-region SR located on the other side of the bending region BR in the first direction DR1.

The panel drive unit20may be disposed on the sub-region SR of the display panel10. The panel drive unit20may include an integrated circuit that drives the display panel10. The panel drive unit20may output signals and voltages that drive the display panel10. The panel drive unit20may be mounted on one surface of the display panel10that is the same surface as the display surface and may be mounted on the surface of the display panel10that faces downward in the thickness direction as the bending region BR is bent and inverted as described above, and thus an upper surface of the panel drive unit20may face downward.

The panel drive unit20may be attached to the display panel10through an anisotropic conductive film or attached to the display panel10through an ultrasonic bonding method.

The circuit board30may be connected to the sub-region SR of the display panel10. The circuit board30may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) or a film. The circuit board30may be an integrated driving board that drives a display and a touch member together. However, the disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto, and a separate display drive substrate and a separate touch drive substrate may be attached to the sub-region SR of the display panel10.

FIG.3is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of line I-I′ ofFIG.1.

Referring toFIG.3, the display device1may include a display unit DU and a touch sensing unit TSU. The display device1may further include an adhesive member SEAL that bonds the display unit DU and the touch sensing unit TSU, a window WDL disposed on the touch sensing unit TSU, and a light blocking member BM disposed on the window WDL.

The display unit DU may include a first substrate SUB1, a thin film transistor layer TFTL disposed on the first substrate SUB1, and a light emitting element layer EML.

The first substrate SUB1may be a rigid substrate or a flexible substrate that may be bent, folded, and rolled. The first substrate SUB1may be made of an insulating material such as glass, quartz, and a polymer resin.

The thin film transistor layer TFTL disposed on the first substrate SUB1may include a plurality of thin film transistors and a plurality of display signal lines for driving pixels. The plurality of display signal lines may include a scan line through which a scan signal is transmitted to each pixel and a data line through which a data signal is transmitted.

The light emitting element layer EML disposed on one surface of the thin film transistor layer TFTL may include light emitting elements that emit light. Each of the light emitting elements may emit light having a predetermined luminance according to an anode voltage and a cathode voltage applied from the thin film transistor layer TFTL.

Each of the light emitting elements may be an organic light emitting diode including an anode electrode, a cathode electrode, and an organic light emitting layer disposed between the anode electrode and the cathode electrode. Alternatively, each of the light emitting elements may be an inorganic light emitting element including an anode electrode, a cathode electrode, and an inorganic semiconductor disposed between the anode electrode and the cathode electrode. Alternatively, each of the light emitting elements may be a quantum dot light emitting device including an anode electrode, a cathode electrode, and a quantum dot light emitting layer disposed between the anode electrode and the cathode electrode. Alternatively, each of the light emitting elements may be a micro light emitting diode.

The touch sensing unit TSU may include a second substrate SUB2and a touch sensing layer TSL. The touch sensing unit TSU may be a touch member for sensing a touch of a user.

The second substrate SUB2may be a rigid substrate or a flexible substrate that may be bent, folded, and/or rolled to at least a noticeable extent without cracking or otherwise sustaining damage. The second substrate SUB2may be made of an insulating material such as glass, quartz, and a polymer resin. The second substrate SUB2may serve as an encapsulation substrate that prevents moisture and oxygen from penetrating into the light emitting element layer EML from the outside.

The touch sensing layer TSL may be disposed on the second substrate SUB2. The touch sensing layer TSL may include electrodes (“IE1” and “IE2” inFIG.4) for sensing a touch of the user in a capacitive manner, touch pads, and signal wires connecting the touch pads and the electrodes. For example, the touch sensing layer TSL may sense a touch of the user using a self-capacitance method or a mutual capacitance method.

In some embodiments of the disclosure, electrodes of the touch sensing layer TSL may be arranged in the touch sensing area TSA overlapping the display area DA. The touch pads and the signal wires of the touch sensing layer TSL may be arranged in a touch peripheral area TPA overlapping the non-display area NDA.

The adhesive member SEAL may bond the first substrate SUB1of the display unit DU and the second substrate SUB2of the touch sensing unit TSU. The adhesive member SEAL may be made of a frit adhesive layer, an ultraviolet curable resin, or a thermosetting resin, but the disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto.

FIG.3illustrates a state in which a space between the light emitting element layer EML and the second substrate SUB2is empty, but the embodiments of the disclosure are not necessarily limited thereto. For example, a filling film may be disposed between the light emitting element layer EML and the second substrate SUB2. The filling film may be an epoxy filled film or a silicone filled film.

The window WDL may be disposed on the touch sensing unit TSU. The window WDL may include a rigid material such as glass or quartz. The window WDL may include, for example, a window member. The window WDL may be attached onto the touch sensing layer TSL by an optically transparent adhesive or the like.

The light blocking member BM for minimizing visibility of external light may be printed on one surface of the window WDL.FIG.3illustrates a state in which the light blocking member BM is disposed on the upper surface of the window WDL, but the embodiments of the specification are not necessarily limited thereto. For example, the light blocking member BM may be disposed on the lower surface of the window WDL. The light blocking member BM may be disposed in the non-display area NDA of the display device1to prevent the plurality of driving circuits and the plurality of signal wires arranged in the non-display area NDA or the touch peripheral area TPA from being visually recognized.

A polarizing film for reducing reflection of external light may be additionally disposed between the touch sensing layer TSL and the window WDL.

FIGS.4and5are schematic plan views of a layout of a touch sensing unit according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIGS.4and5, the touch sensing unit TSU may include the touch sensing area TSA that senses a touch of the user and the touch peripheral area TPA disposed in the periphery of the touch sensing area TSA.

Further, the touch sensing area TSA may include an inner part IS and outer parts (OS: OS1, OS2, OS3, and OS4).

When the touch sensing area TSA has a circular shape in a plan view, the inner part IS may have the largest quadrilateral shape that may be formed in the circular shape of the touch sensing area TSA. For example, the inner part IS may have a quadrilateral shape in a plan view, and four vertices of the inner part IS may be located along edges of the touch sensing area TSA. The length of a diagonal line connecting opposite vertices of the inner part IS may be substantially the same as the length of a diameter of the circular shape of the touch sensing area TSA. Further, a central point at which the two diagonal lines of the inner part IS intersect each other may be substantially the same as a central point of the touch sensing area TSA.

The outer parts OS may include a first outer part OS1disposed on one side of the inner part IS in the first direction DR1, a second outer part OS2disposed on the other side of the inner part IS in the first direction DR1, a third outer part OS3disposed on one side of the inner part IS in the second direction DR2, and a fourth outer part OS4disposed on the other side of the inner part IS in the second direction DR2. At least one side of each of the outer parts OS1, OS2, OS3, and OS3may have a part of the circular shape.

The outer parts OS1, OS2, OS3, and OS4may surround the inner part IS. The outer parts OS1, OS2, OS3, and OS4may be arranged at the edges of the touch sensing area TSA. The first outer part OS1may be disposed on the upper side of the inner part IS, the second outer part OS2may be disposed on the lower side of the inner part IS, the third outer part OS3may be disposed on the right side of the inner part IS, and the fourth outer part OS4may be disposed on the left side of the inner part IS.

The touch sensing area TSA may include the plurality of first electrodes IE1and the plurality of second electrodes IE2. One of the first electrode IE1and the second electrode IE2may be a driving electrode and the other one thereof may be a sensing electrode. In the embodiment, it is exemplified that the first electrode IE1is the driving electrode and the second electrode IE2is the sensing electrode.

The plurality of first electrodes IE1may each extend in the first direction DR1and may be spaced apart from each other in the second direction DR2. Each of the plurality of first electrodes IE1may include a plurality of first main patterns SP1, a plurality of first outer patterns EP1, and a plurality of first connection patterns (“BP1” inFIG.8). Each of the first electrodes IE1may have a shape in which the plurality of first main patterns SP1and the plurality of first outer patterns EP1are connected.

The plurality of first main patterns SP1may be arranged in the first direction DR1. The plurality of first main patterns SP1may be arranged in the inner part IS of the touch sensing area TSA. The first main pattern SP1may have a rhombus shape, but the disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto. The first main pattern SP1has a first area.

Each of the plurality of first outer patterns EP1may be located at opposite ends in an extension direction. For example, the first outer pattern EP1may be disposed at one end or the other end of the first main pattern SP1extending in the first direction DR1. The first outer pattern EP1may be disposed in the outer part OS of the touch sensing area TSA. For example, the first outer pattern EP1may be disposed at the edge of the touch sensing area TSA.

Since the first outer pattern EP1is disposed at the edge of the touch sensing area TSA, at least one side of the first outer pattern EP1may include substantially the same shape as the shape of the edge of the touch sensing area TSA. For example, the at least one side of the first outer pattern EP1may include the same shape as the edge of the touch sensing area TSA, and the other sides thereof may include substantially the same rhombus shape as the first main pattern SP1. Therefore, the first outer pattern EP1may have an irregular shape in which a portion is cut from the rhombus shape. The first outer pattern EP1has a second area that is smaller than the first area of the first main pattern SP1.

Referring toFIG.5, the plurality of first outer patterns EP1may include a first one-side outer pattern EPu1disposed on one side (for example, an upper side) of the first electrode IE1in the first direction DR1and a first other-side outer pattern EP11disposed on the other side (for example, a lower side) of the first electrode IE1in the first direction DR1.

In the embodiment, the first one-side outer pattern EPu1may be disposed in the first outer part OS1of the touch sensing area TSA and connected to the first main pattern SP1. The first other-side outer pattern EP11may be disposed in the second outer part OS2of the touch sensing area TSA and connected to the first main pattern SP1.

The first connection patterns (BP1: BP1-1and BP1-2) may be arranged between two adjacent first main patterns SP1in the first direction DR1and may connect the two first main patterns SP1. Further, the first connection pattern BP1may be disposed between the first main pattern SP1and the first outer pattern EP1adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1and connect the first main pattern SP1and the first outer pattern EP1.

In the embodiment, in the first main pattern SP1disposed at a boundary between the first outer part OS1and the inner part IS among the plurality of first main patterns SP1, a half (for example, a half of the rhombus shape) of the first main pattern SP1may be disposed in the inner part IS, and the other half (for example, a half of the rhombus shape) of the first main pattern SP1may be disposed in the first outer part OS1. Further, in the first outer pattern EP1disposed at the boundary between the first outer part OS1and the inner part IS among the plurality of first outer patterns EP1, a part of the first outer pattern EP1may be disposed in the first outer part OS1, and the other part thereof (for example, a half of the rhombus shape) may be disposed in the inner part IS. This may be equally applied to a boundary between the second outer part OS2and the inner part IS.

The plurality of second electrodes IE2may each extend in the second direction DR2and may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. Each of the plurality of first electrodes TE1may include a plurality of second main patterns SP2, a plurality of second outer patterns EP2, and a plurality of second connection patterns (“BP2” inFIG.8). Each of the second electrodes IE2may have a shape in which the plurality of second main patterns SP2and the plurality of second outer patterns EP2are connected.

The plurality second main patterns SP2may be arranged in the second direction DR2. The plurality of second main patterns SP2may be arranged in the inner part IS of the touch sensing area TSA.

In the embodiment, the second main pattern SP2may have substantially the same shape as the first main pattern SP1. For example, the second main pattern SP2may have a rhombus shape, but the disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto. The second main pattern SP2has a first area.

Each of the plurality of second outer patterns EP2may be located at opposite ends in an extension direction. For example, the second outer pattern EP2may be disposed at one end or the other end of the second main pattern SP2extending in the second direction DR2. The second outer pattern EP2may be disposed in the outer part OS of the touch sensing area TSA. For example, the second outer pattern EP2may be disposed at the edge of the touch sensing area TSA.

Since the second outer pattern EP2is disposed at the edge of the touch sensing area TSA, at least one surface of the second outer pattern EP2may include substantially the same shape as the shape of the edge of the touch sensing area TSA. For example, the at least one surface of the second outer pattern EP2may include the same shape as the edge of the touch sensing area TSA, and the other surfaces thereof may include substantially the same rhombus shape as the second main pattern SP2. The second outer pattern EP2may have a figure shape that is cut from the rhombus shape. The second outer pattern EP2has a second area that is smaller than the first area of the second main pattern SP2.

Referring toFIG.5, the plurality of second outer patterns EP2may include a second one-side outer pattern EPr2disposed on one side (for example, a right side) of the second electrode IE2in the second direction DR2and a second other-side outer pattern EP12disposed on the other side (for example, a left side) of the second electrode IE2in the second direction DR2.

In the embodiment, the second one-side outer pattern EPr2may be disposed in the third outer part OS3of the touch sensing area TSA and connected to the second main pattern SP2. The second other-side outer pattern EP12may be disposed in the fourth outer part OS4of the touch sensing area TSA and connected to the second main pattern SP2.

The second connection pattern BP2may be arranged between two adjacent second main patterns SP2in the second direction DR2and may connect the two second main patterns SP2. Further, the second connection pattern BP2may be disposed between the second main pattern SP2and the second outer pattern EP2adjacent to each other in the second direction DR2and connect the second main pattern SP2and the second outer pattern EP2.

In the embodiment, in the second main pattern SP2disposed at a boundary between the third outer part OS3and the inner part IS among the plurality of second main patterns SP2, a half (for example, a half of the rhombus shape) of the second main pattern SP2may be disposed in the inner part IS, and the other half (for example, a half of the rhombus shape) of the second main pattern SP2may be disposed in the third outer part OS3. Further, in the second outer pattern EP2disposed at the boundary between the third outer part OS3and the inner part IS among the plurality of second outer patterns EP2, a part of the second outer pattern EP2may be disposed in the third outer part OS3, and the other part thereof (for example, a half of the rhombus shape) may be disposed in the inner part IS. This may be equally applied to a boundary between the fourth outer part OS4and the inner part IS.

Although the drawings illustrate that seven first electrodes TE1and seven second electrodes IE2are arranged, the numbers of the first electrodes IE1and the second electrodes IE2are not necessarily limited to the above example.

FIG.6is a partially enlarged view of a touch sensing area ofFIG.5.

Referring toFIGS.5and6, the first main pattern SP1and the second main pattern SP2may have a rhombus shape.

In the specification, it is interpreted that the term “rhombus shape” or “substantial rhombus shape” includes a substantial rhombus shape in which, even when curves or irregularities are in at least a partial section of each line segment, line segments connected in the overall extending direction form the rhombus shape as well as a rhombus shape in which line segments constituting the rhombus shape extend in predetermined directions, the four line segments have completely linear shapes, and the line segments extending in the predetermined direction form the rhombus shape.

For example, at least some sections of the line segments constituting the rhombus shape of the first main pattern SP1and the second main pattern SP2may include irregularities. By including the irregularities, when an image of the display device1is viewed, a moire phenomenon can be prevented from occurring due to the first main pattern SP1and the second main pattern SP2. Meanwhile, the planar shapes of the first main pattern SP1and the second main pattern SP2are not necessarily limited to those illustrated inFIG.6. The irregularities having a rhombus shape may be equally applied even to the first outer pattern EP1and the second outer pattern EP2.

The first connection pattern BP1may connect edge parts of the rhombus shape of the adjacent first main patterns SP1. The second connection pattern BP2may connect edge parts of the rhombus shape of the adjacent second main patterns SP2. The width of each of the first connection pattern BP1and the second connection pattern BP2may be smaller than the width of each of the first main pattern SP1and the second main pattern SP2.

The first electrode TE1and the second electrode IE2may be insulated from each other and may intersect each other. The insulation between the first electrode IE1and the second electrode IE2can be secured as the first electrode TE1and the second electrode IE2are connected through conductive layers located in different layers in the region in which the first electrode IE1and the second electrode IE2intersect each other. Insulation properties thereof can be secured using an insulating layer interposed between the plurality of conductive layers. A stack structure of the touch sensing unit TSU will be described with reference toFIG.7.

In the inner part IS of the touch sensing area TSA, the first main patterns SP1and the second main patterns SP2adjacent to each other may constitute a unit sensing area SUT. For example, with respect to the region in which the first electrode IE1and the second electrode IE2intersect each other, a half of the two adjacent first main patterns SP1and a half of the two adjacent second main patterns SP2may constitute a single square or rectangle. In this way, an area defined by a half area of the two adjacent first main patterns SP1and the two adjacent second main patterns SP2may be one unit sensing area SUT.

The planar shape of the unit sensing area SUT located in the outer part OS of the touch sensing area TSA may be different from the planar shape of the unit sensing area SUT located in the inner part IS. In detail, the unit sensing area SUT located in the outer part OS may include a shape cut according to the shape of the outer part OS.

As described above, the second area of each of the first outer pattern EP1and the second outer pattern EP2may be smaller than the first area of each of the first main pattern SP1and the second main pattern SP2. In this case, the unit sensing area SUT located in the outer part OS includes at least one of the first outer pattern EP1and the second outer pattern EP2and thus may have a smaller area than the unit sensing area SUT located in the inner part IS.

For example, in the first outer part OS1and the second outer part OS2, the unit sensing area SUT may include a half of the one first main pattern SP1, the one whole first outer pattern EP1, and a half of the two second main patterns SP2, which are adjacent to the region in which the first electrode IE1and the second electrode IE2intersect each other. As an example, the unit sensing area SUT may include a half of the one first main pattern SP1, the one whole first outer pattern EP1, a half of the one second main pattern SP2, and a part of the one second outer pattern EP2, which are adjacent to the region in which the first electrode IE1and the second electrode IE2intersect each other. As an example, the unit sensing area SUT may include a part of the one first outer pattern EP1and a part of the one second outer pattern EP2, which are adjacent to the region in which the first electrode IE1and the second electrode IE2intersect each other.

Further, in the third outer part OS3and the fourth outer part OS4, the unit sensing area SUT may include a half of the one second main pattern SP2, the one whole second outer pattern EP2, and a half of the two first main patterns SP1, which are adjacent to the region in which the first electrode IE1and the second electrode IE2intersect each other. As an example, the unit sensing area SUT may include a half of the one first main pattern SP1, a part of the one first outer pattern EP1, a half of the one second main pattern SP2, and the one whole second outer pattern EP2, which are adjacent to the region in which the first electrode IE1and the second electrode IE2intersect each other. As an example, the unit sensing area SUT may include a part of the one first outer pattern EP1and a part of the one second outer pattern EP2, which are adjacent to the region in which the first electrode IE1and the second electrode IE2intersect each other.

A plurality of unit sensing areas SUT may be arranged in a matrix. For example, the plurality of unit sensing areas SUT may be arranged in the first direction DR1or the second direction DR2.

In the unit sensing area SUT located in the inner part IS, by measuring a capacitance value (“Cm1” inFIG.11) between the first main pattern SP1and the second main pattern SP2adjacent to each other, whether a touch is input may be determined, and the corresponding location may be calculated as touch input coordinates.

Each unit sensing area SUT may be larger than the pixel. For example, the unit sensing areas SUT may correspond to the plurality of pixels. The length of one side of the unit sensing area SUT may be in the range of 4 mm to 5 mm, but the disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto.

In comparative examples, the unit sensing area SUT located in the outer part OS, whether a touch is input may be determined by measuring a capacitance value between the first main pattern SP1and the second outer pattern EP2adjacent to each other, a capacitance value between the second main pattern SP2and the first outer pattern EP1adjacent to each other, and a capacitance value between the first outer pattern EP1and the second outer pattern EP2adjacent to each other.

In this case, since the area of the unit sensing area SUT located in the outer part OS is smaller than the area of the unit sensing area SUT located in the inner part IS, the measured capacitance value may be small. Accordingly, the touch sensitivity of the touch sensing unit TSU may be reduced.

In the embodiment, to increase the touch sensitivity of the outer part OS of the touch sensing area TSA, the touch sensing unit TSU may further include a plurality of compensation patterns CP1and CP2connected to the first outer pattern EP1and the second outer pattern EP2arranged in the outer part OS of the touch sensing area TSA. For example, the first outer pattern EP1may be connected to the first compensation pattern CP1, and the second outer pattern EP2may be connected to the second compensation pattern CP2.

The area of the first outer pattern EP1and the second outer pattern EP2in the unit sensing area SUT of the outer part OS may be increased due to the plurality of compensation patterns CP1and CP2connected to the first outer pattern EP1and the second outer pattern EP2. Due to an increase in the area of the first outer pattern EP1and the second outer pattern EP2, a difference between areas of the first outer pattern EP1and the first main pattern SP1may be reduced. Further, a difference between areas of the second outer pattern EP2and the second main pattern SP2may be reduced.

Therefore, a difference between a capacitance between the first electrode IE1and the second electrode IE2of the unit sensing area SUT of the outer part OS and a capacitance between the first electrode TE1and the second electrode IE2of the unit sensing area SUT of the inner part IS may be reduced. Thus, the uniformity of touch sensitivity can be increased.

More details on the compensation pattern will be described with reference toFIGS.8to12.

Referring back toFIG.4, the plurality of signal wires may be arranged in the touch peripheral area TPA. The plurality of signal wires may extend from a touch pad part TPD to one side in the first direction DR1. The plurality of signal wires may include a plurality of driving wires TL and a plurality of sensing wires. The plurality of signal wires may further include guard wires GL1and GL2and/or a ground wire.

Each of the plurality of driving wires (TL: TL1and TL2) may be connected to at least one of the first electrode IE1and the first compensation pattern CP1. In the embodiment, the first electrode IE1may be connected to the driving wire TL corresponding thereto. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the first compensation pattern CP1may be connected to the driving wire TL corresponding thereto. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the driving wire TL may be connected to the first electrode IE1and the first compensation pattern CP1. Hereinafter, as illustrated inFIG.8, it is exemplified that the driving wire TL is connected to the first electrode IE1. An embodiment of the disclosure will be described with reference toFIGS.11and12.

For example, the plurality of driving wires TL may include a first driving wire TL1connected to a lower end (for example, the first other-side outer pattern EP11) of the first electrode IE1and a second driving wire TL2connected to an upper end (for example, the first one-side outer pattern EPu1) of the first electrode TEL The first driving wire TL1may extend from a second touch pad part TPD2among the plurality of touch pad parts TPD to one side in the first direction DR1and may be connected to the lower end of the first electrode IE1. The second driving wire TL2may extend from a fourth touch pad part TPD4among the plurality of touch pad parts TPD to one side in the first direction DR1and may be connected to the upper end of the first electrode IE1by bypassing a right edge of the touch sensing area TSA.

In the embodiment, it is exemplified that each of the plurality of driving wires TL are vertically divided and connected, but the disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto. For example, each of the plurality of driving wires TL may be connected to only the lower end of the first electrode IE1or may be simultaneously connected to the upper and lower ends of the first electrode IE1.

Similar to the plurality of driving wires TL, each of the plurality of sensing wires (RL: RL1and RL2) may be connected to at least one of the second electrode IE2and the second compensation pattern CP2. In the embodiment, the first electrode IE1may be connected to the sensing wire RL corresponding thereto. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the first compensation pattern CP1may be connected to the sensing wire RL corresponding thereto. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the sensing wire RL may be connected to the first electrode IE1and the first compensation pattern CP1. Hereinafter, as illustrated inFIG.10, it is exemplified that the sensing wire RL is connected to the second electrode IE2.

For example, the plurality of sensing wires RL may include a first sensing wire RL1that extends from a first touch pad part TPD among the plurality of touch pad parts TPD and is connected to a left end (for example, the second other-side outer pattern EP12) of the second electrode IE2and a second sensing wire RL2that extends from a third touch pad part TPD3and is connected to a right end (for example, the second one-side outer pattern EPr2) of the second electrode IE2.

In the embodiment, it is exemplified that the plurality of sensing wires RL are horizontally divided and connected, but the disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto. For example, each of the plurality of sensing wires RL may be connected to only the lower end of the second electrode IE2or may be connected to only the right end of the second electrode IE2.

The guard wires GL1and GL2may be arranged between the plurality of driving wires TL and the plurality of sensing wires RL. The guard wires GL1and GL2may prevent coupling between the driving wires TL and the sensing wires RL. The guard wires GL1and Gl2may surround the touch sensing area TSA and the signal wires.

The guard wires GL1and GL2may include a first guard wire GL1disposed between the first driving wire TL1and the first sensing wire RL1and a second guard wire GL2disposed between the second driving wire TL2and the second sensing wire RL2.

The first guard wire GL1may extend from the first touch pad part TPD1and extend along a left edge of the touch sensing area TSA. The first guard wire GL1may minimize a coupling phenomenon affected by a change in voltage between the first driving wire TL1and the first sensing wire RL1.

The second guard wire GL2may extend from the fourth touch pad part TPD4and extend along the right edge of the touch sensing area TSA. The second guard wire GL2may minimize a coupling phenomenon affected by a change in voltage between the second driving wire TL2and the second sensing wire RL2.

The first outer pattern EP1, the first compensation pattern CP1, the first driving wire TL1, the first guard wire GL1, and the first sensing wire RL1may be sequentially arranged, and the second outer pattern EP2, the second compensation pattern CP2, the second sensing wire RL2, the second guard wire GL2, and the second driving wire TL2may be sequentially arranged.

A ground wire may be further disposed between the signal wires.

The plurality of touch pad parts TPD may include, from the left side to the right side, the first touch pad part TPD1, the second touch pad part TPD2, the third touch pad part TPD3, and the fourth touch pad part TPD4. Each of the touch pad parts TPD may include a plurality of touch pads. Each of the touch pads may be connected to a corresponding one of the plurality of signal wires.

For example, the first touch pad part TPD1may be connected to the first sensing wire RL1and the first guard wire GL1, the second touch pad part TPD2may be connected to the first driving wire TL1, the third touch pad part TPD3may be connected to the second sensing wire RL2, and the fourth touch pad part TPD4may be connected to the second driving wire TL2and the second guard wire GL2.

FIG.7is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II′ ofFIG.6.

Referring toFIG.7, a buffer layer105is disposed on the first substrate SUB1. The buffer layer105may include silicon nitride, silicon oxide, silicon oxynitride, or the like.

A semiconductor layer110is disposed on the buffer layer105. The semiconductor layer110forms a channel of the thin film transistor of the pixel.

A first insulating layer121is disposed on the semiconductor layer110. The first insulating layer121may be a gate insulating film having a gate insulating function.

A first conductive layer130is disposed on the first insulating layer121. The first conductive layer130may include a gate electrode GAT of the thin film transistor of the pixel.

A second insulating layer122may be disposed on the first conductive layer130. The second insulating layer122may be an interlayer insulating film.

A second conductive layer140is disposed on the second insulating layer122.

The second conductive layer140may include a first electrode SD1and a second electrode SD2of the thin film transistor of the pixel. The first electrode SD1and the second electrode SD2of the thin film transistor may be connected to a source region and a drain region of the semiconductor layer110through a contact hole passing through the second insulating layer122and the first insulating layer121.

A third insulating layer123is disposed on the second conductive layer140. The third insulating layer123covers the second conductive layer140. The third insulating layer120may be a via layer. The third insulating layer123may include an organic insulating layer, and in this case, an upper surface of the third insulating layer123may be substantially flat (e.g., planarizing) regardless of a stepped part thereunder.

An anode electrode170is disposed on the third insulating layer123. The anode electrode170may be a pixel electrode provided in each pixel. The anode electrode170may be connected to a source electrode or a drain electrode of the thin film transistor through a contact hole passing through the third insulating layer123.

In a top emission structure that emits light toward a cathode electrode180with respect to an organic light emitting layer175, the anode electrode170may be formed of a metal material having high reflectivity, such as a laminated structure (Ti/Al/Ti) of aluminum and titanium, a laminated structure (ITO/Al/ITO) of aluminum and indium tinoxide (ITO), an APC alloy, and a laminated structure (ITO/APC/ITO) of the APC alloy and ITO. The APC alloy is an alloy of silver (Ag), palladium (Pd), and copper (Cu).

In a bottom emission structure that emits light toward the anode electrode170with respect to the organic light emitting layer175, the anode electrode170may be formed of a transparent metal oxide (TCO) such as ITO and indium zinc oxide (IZO) that may transmit light or a semi-transmissive conductive material such as magnesium (Mg), silver (Ag), or an alloy of magnesium (Mg) and silver (Ag).

A pixel defining film126may be disposed on the anode electrode170. The pixel defining film126may include an opening disposed on the anode electrode170and exposing the anode electrode170. The pixel defining film126may cover an edge of the anode electrode170.

The light emitting layer175is disposed on the anode electrode170exposed by the pixel defining film126. The light emitting layer175may include organic matter and may emit light of a predetermined wavelength. The light emitting layer175may further include a hole injection/transport layer or an electron injection/transport layer.

The cathode electrode180may be disposed on the light emitting layer175. The cathode electrode180may be a common electrode disposed on the entire surface without distinction of pixels.

In the top emission structure, the cathode electrode180may be formed of a TCO such as ITO and IZO that may transmit light or a semi-transmissive conductive material such as magnesium (Mg), silver (Ag), or an alloy of magnesium (Mg) and silver (Ag).

In the bottom emission structure, the cathode electrode190may be formed of a metal material having high reflectivity, such as a laminated structure (Ti/Al/Ti) of aluminum and titanium, a laminated structure (ITO/Al/ITO) of aluminum and ITO, an APC alloy, and a laminated structure (ITO/APC/ITO) of the APC alloy and ITO. The APC alloy is an alloy of silver (Ag), palladium (Pd), and copper (Cu).

The anode electrode170, the light emitting layer175, and the cathode electrode180may constitute an organic light emitting device.

When the anode electrode170receives a first power supply voltage ELVDD through the thin film transistor of the thin film transistor layer TFTL and when the cathode electrode180receives a second power supply voltage ELVSS, holes and electrons may move to the light emitting layer175and may be combined with each other. The organic light emitting device may emit light according to a driving current corresponding to a data signal applied to the thin film transistor.

The second substrate SUB2is disposed on the light emitting element layer EML, and the touch sensing layer TSL is formed on the second substrate SUB2.

The touch sensing layer TSL may include a first touch conductive layer210, a first touch insulating layer215, a second touch conductive layer220, and a second touch insulating layer230. In detail, the first touch conductive layer210is disposed on the second substrate SUB2. The first touch conductive layer210is covered with the first touch insulating layer215. The first touch insulating layer215insulates the first touch conductive layer210and the second touch conductive layer220from each other. The second touch conductive layer220is disposed on the first touch insulating layer215. The second touch insulating layer230may cover and protect the second touch conductive layer220.

Referring toFIGS.6and7, the first connection pattern BP1may be formed using the first touch conductive layer210. The first main pattern SP1, the second main pattern SP2, the second connection pattern BP2, and a first island electrode IEI may be formed using the first touch conductive layer210and the second touch conductive layer220with the first touch insulating layer215interposed therebetween. One end of each of the first connection patterns BP1may be connected to the first main pattern SP1, and the other end thereof may be connected to the first island electrode IEI.

Through such a structure, mutual insulation may be secured at a portion in which the first electrode IE1and the second electrode IE2intersect each other. However, the disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto. The second connection pattern BP2may be formed using the first touch conductive layer210, and the first main pattern SP1, the first connection pattern BP1, the second main pattern SP2, and the first island electrode IEI may be formed using the second touch conductive layer220.

Each of the first main pattern SP1and the second main pattern SP2may be formed as a planar pattern or a mesh-shaped pattern.

When the first main pattern SP1and the second main pattern SP2are formed as a mesh-shaped pattern, the first touch conductive layer210and the second touch conductive layer220may be formed of a low-resistance material such as aluminum (Al), molybdenum (Mo), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), and copper (Cu).

When the first main pattern SP1and the second main pattern SP2are formed as a planar pattern, even when the first touch conductive layer210is made of a low-resistance material such as aluminum (Al), molybdenum (Mo), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), and copper (Cu), the second touch conductive layer220constituting the first main pattern SP1and the second main pattern SP2may be formed using a transparent conductive layer. For example, a transparent conductive oxide such as ITO, IZO, zinc oxide (ZnO), and indium tin zinc oxide (ITZO), a conductive polymer such as poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), metal nanowires, graphene, and the like may be applied to the transparent conductive layer.

Hereinafter, an example case in which each of the first main pattern SP1and the second main pattern SP2is formed as a planar pattern will be described. In this case, even when a part of the second touch conductive layer220overlaps the pixels, the aperture ratio of the pixels is not reduced.

The material forming the first outer pattern EP1and the second outer pattern EP2may be substantially the same as the material forming the first main pattern SP1and the second main pattern SP2.

The first touch insulating layer215and the second touch insulating layer230may include an inorganic insulating material or an organic insulating material. In the embodiment, one of the first touch insulating layer215and the second touch insulating layer230may include an inorganic material, and the other one thereof may include an organic material.

The first touch insulating layer215may include a first contact hole CNT1and a second contact hole CNT2. The first main pattern SP1and the first connection pattern BP1may be electrically connected through the first contact hole CNT1, and the first connection pattern BP1and the first island electrode IEI may be electrically connected through the second contact hole CNT2. The plurality of first main patterns SP1and the plurality of first outer patterns EP1, which are arranged in the first direction DR1, may be electrically connected.

The window WDL may be disposed on the touch sensing layer TSL. The first substrate SUB1may include the touch sensing area TSA and the touch peripheral area TPA, and in the touch peripheral area TPA, the light blocking member BM may be further disposed on the window WDL.

FIG.8is an enlarged plan view illustrating an example of region A ofFIG.4,FIG.9is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III′ ofFIG.8,FIG.10is an enlarged plan view illustrating an example of region B ofFIG.4, andFIG.11shows schematic views illustrating a capacitance formed in the touch sensing unit according to one embodiment of the disclosure. It is illustrated inFIGS.8and10that each of the main patterns and each of the outer patterns have a rhombus shape in which irregularities are omitted and four line segments have a completely linear shape.

Referring toFIGS.8to11, the first compensation pattern CP1and the second compensation patter CP2may be arranged in the touch peripheral area TPA. Although the second outer part OS2and the compensation patterns connected thereto have been illustrated, this may be equally applied to the first outer part OS1, the third outer part OS3, and the fourth outer part OS4.

The compensation patterns CP1and CP2may be arranged along the edge of the touch sensing area TSA in the touch peripheral area TPA. The compensation patterns CP1and CP2may each be connected to one of the plurality of electrodes IE1and IE2spaced apart from each other in a direction intersecting an extension direction.

For example, the first compensation patterns CP1may each be connected to one of the plurality of first electrodes IE1spaced apart from each other in the second direction DR2, and the second compensation pattern CP2may each be connected to one of the plurality of second electrodes IE2spaced apart from each other in the first direction.

The first compensation pattern CP1may include a first compensation peripheral part CPE1and a first compensation connection part CPB1. The first compensation pattern CP1has a third area. The third area may be greater than the second area of the first outer pattern EP1. The disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto, and the third area of the first compensation pattern CP1may be smaller than the second area of the first outer pattern EP1.

The first compensation connection part CPB1may protrude from the first compensation peripheral part CPE1toward the first outer pattern EP1and may be connected to the first outer pattern EP1. The first compensation connection part CPB1may be partially disposed in the touch sensing area TSA and may overlap the first outer pattern EP1in a plan view.

The first compensation peripheral part CPE1may be disposed on the touch peripheral area TPA. The first compensation peripheral part CPE1may be adjacent to the first outer pattern EP1connected thereto. For example, the first compensation peripheral part CPE1may be spaced apart from the first outer pattern EP1and extend along an edge of the first outer pattern EP1.

The first compensation peripheral part CPE1may be disposed between the first outer pattern EP1and the first driving wire TL1, but the disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto. Further, the first compensation peripheral part CPE1may be disposed between the first outer pattern EP1and the first sensing wire RL1.

When the first compensation peripheral part CPE1is disposed between the first outer pattern EP1and the driving wire TL, the first compensation pattern CP1may serve to secure a physical distance between the electrodes and the wires.

The first compensation peripheral part CPE1of the first compensation pattern CP1may be electrically connected to the first outer pattern EP1through the first compensation connection part CPB1. Thus, the first compensation pattern CP1may receive substantially the same signal as the first main pattern SP1.

For example, the first main pattern SP1and the first outer pattern EP1of the first electrode TE1and the first compensation connection part CPB1and the first compensation peripheral part CPE1of the first compensation pattern CP1may be electrically connected. The first main pattern SP1, the first outer pattern EP1, and the first compensation pattern CP1may be electrically connected to receive a common signal. Accordingly, a capacitor having a compensation capacitance value Cm3may be formed between the first compensation pattern CP1and the second outer pattern EP2. The formed capacitor may increase a total capacitance value formed in the unit sensing area SUT located in the outer part OS.

For example, since the first compensation pattern CP1may reduce a difference between areas of the first outer pattern EP1and the first main pattern SP1, a difference between capacitances of the unit sensing area SUT of the outer part OS and the unit sensing area SUT of the inner part IS may be reduced. Thus, the uniformity of touch sensitivity can be increased.

For example, since the first compensation pattern CP1is electrically connected to the first outer pattern EP1through a third contact hole CNT3, an electrode area of each unit sensing area SUT located in the second outer part OS2may be compensated for. Accordingly, the capacitance value formed in the second outer part OS2can be increased, and the uniformity of touch sensitivity of the touch sensing unit TSU can be increased.

Likewise, the first compensation pattern CP1, the second compensation pattern CP2may include a second compensation connection part CPB2and a second compensation peripheral part CPE2. The second compensation pattern CP2has the third area.

The second compensation connection part CPB2may protrude from the second compensation peripheral part CPE2toward the second outer pattern EP2and may be connected to the second outer pattern EP2. The second compensation connection part CPB2may be partially disposed in the touch sensing area TSA and may overlap the second outer pattern EP2in a plan view.

The second compensation peripheral part CPE2may be disposed on the touch peripheral area TPA. The second compensation peripheral part CPE2may be adjacent to the second outer pattern EP2connected thereto. For example, the second compensation peripheral part CPE2may be spaced apart from the second outer pattern EP2and may extend along an edge of the second outer pattern EP2.

The second compensation peripheral part CPE2may be disposed outside of the second outer pattern EP2and the second sensing wire RL2, but the disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto. For example, the second compensation peripheral part CPE2may be disposed between the second outer pattern EP2and the second sensing wire RL2. Further, the second compensation peripheral part CPE2may be disposed between the second outer pattern EP2and the second driving wire TL2.

When the second compensation peripheral part CPE2is disposed between the second outer pattern EP2and the sensing wire RL, the second compensation pattern CP2may serve to secure a physical distance between the electrodes and the wires.

The second compensation peripheral part CPE2of the second compensation pattern CP2may be electrically connected to the second outer pattern EP2through the second compensation connection part CPB2. Thus, the second compensation pattern CP2may receive substantially the same signal as the second main pattern SP2.

For example, the second main pattern SP2and the second outer pattern EP2of the second electrode IE2and the second compensation connection part CPB2and the second compensation peripheral part CPE2of the second compensation pattern CP2may be electrically connected. The second main pattern SP2, the second outer pattern EP2, and the second compensation pattern CP2may be electrically connected to receive a common signal. Accordingly, a capacitor having a compensation capacitance value Cm2may be formed between the second compensation pattern CP2and the first outer pattern EP1. The formed capacitor may increase a total capacitance value formed in the unit sensing area SUT located in the outer part OS.

For example, since the first compensation pattern CP1may reduce a difference between areas of the first outer pattern EP1and the first main pattern SP1, a difference between capacitances of the unit sensing area SUT of the outer part OS and the unit sensing area SUT of the inner part IS may be reduced. Thus, the uniformity of touch sensitivity can be increased.

According to the embodiment, the touch sensing unit TSU includes the first compensation pattern CP1and the second compensation pattern CP2, and thus a touch input may be easily sensed not only in the inner part IS but also the outer part OS of the touch sensing area TSA. Accordingly, a substantial touch sensing area for sensing a touch input may partially extend to the touch peripheral area TPA.

Further, since the first and second compensation patterns CP1and CP2are arranged in the touch peripheral area TPA adjacent to the first and second outer patterns EP1and EP2having areas that are relatively smaller than those of the first and second main patterns SP1and SP2, the touch sensitivity of the first and second outer patterns EP1and EP2can be compensated, and the touch sensitivity in the touch sensing area TSA can be uniformly maintained.

In the embodiment, the locations of the compensation patterns may be variously changed. For example, when each of the plurality of driving wires TL are connected to the lower end of the first electrode IE1, the first compensation patterns CP1may be connected only to the first other-side outer pattern EP11among the first outer patterns EP1. For example, when each of the plurality of sensing wires RL are connected to the left end of the second electrode IE2, the second compensation patterns CP2may be connected only to the second one-side outer pattern EPr2among the second outer patterns EP2.

Referring toFIG.9, the first compensation connection part CPB1, the first compensation peripheral part CPE1, and the first driving wire TL1may be arranged in the first touch conductive layer210. The first outer pattern EP1may be disposed in the second touch conductive layer220with the first touch insulating layer215interposed therebetween. The first touch insulating layer215may include the third contact hole CNT3. The first outer pattern EP1and the first compensation connection part CPB1of the first compensation pattern CP1may be electrically connected through the third contact hole CNT3.

A portion of the first compensation connection part CPB1may overlap the first outer pattern EP1in the touch sensing area TSA, and the other portion of the first compensation connection part CPB1may overlap the light blocking member BM disposed on the window WDL in the touch peripheral area TPA.

The first compensation peripheral part CPE1and the first driving wire TL1may overlap the light blocking member BM in the touch peripheral area TPA.

The light blocking member BM, according to the embodiment, may overlap the plurality of signal wires and the plurality of first and second compensation patterns CP1and CP2arranged in the first touch conductive layer210in the touch peripheral area TPA. Accordingly, the light blocking member BM may prevent the plurality of signal wires and the compensation patterns formed around the touch sensing area TSA from being visually recognized from the outside.

FIG.12is a part of the schematic plan view illustrating a layout of the touch sensing unit ofFIG.4.

Referring toFIG.12, at least one compensation pattern among the plurality of compensation patterns arranged in an extension direction of one electrode may be simultaneously adjacent to two adjacent electrodes (or outer patterns) intersecting the extension direction of the one electrode.

For example, at least one first compensation pattern CP1bamong a plurality of first compensation patterns CP1aand CP1barranged at one end or the other end of the first electrode IE1extending in the first direction DR1may be simultaneously adjacent to two adjacent second electrodes IE2aand IE2bextending in the second direction DR2. Alternatively, the first compensation pattern CP1bmay be simultaneously adjacent to second outer patterns EP2aand EP2bincluded in the two adjacent second electrodes IE2aand IE2b.

Further, the first compensation pattern CP1bconnected to a first outer pattern EP1bdisposed between the two adjacent second electrodes IE2aand IE2bmay be disposed along edges of the two second outer patterns EP2aand EP2band the one first outer pattern EP1b. The first compensation pattern CP1bmay be adjacent to the plurality of outer patterns EP1b, EP2a, and EP2balong the edge of the touch sensing area TSA. The first compensation pattern CP1bmay be disposed outside of the first driving wire TL1, but the disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto.

Since the compensation pattern is connected to the outer pattern disposed between two adjacent electrodes, the two unit sensing areas SUT arranged in the outer part OS may be simultaneously compensated.

For example, since the first compensation pattern CP1bis connected to the first outer pattern EP1bdisposed between the two adjacent second electrodes IE2aand IE2b, the unit sensing area SUT formed in a region in which the first electrode IE1and the second electrode IE2aintersect each other and the unit sensing area SUT formed in a region in which the first electrode IE1and the second electrode IE2bintersect each other may be simultaneously compensated.

The area of the first outer pattern EP1bmay be increased due to the first compensation pattern CP1b. Accordingly, the capacitance values of the unit sensing area SUT formed in the region in which the first electrode IE1and the second electrode IE2aintersect each other and the unit sensing area SUT formed in the region in which the first electrode IE1and the second electrode IE2bintersect each other may increase. To this end, a difference between the area of the first outer pattern EP1band the area of the first main pattern SP1may be reduced.

Accordingly, a difference between the touch sensitivities of the inner part IS and the outer part OS of the touch sensing unit TSU may be minimized.

Referring toFIG.10, this may be equally applied to the second compensation pattern CP2. For example, at least one second compensation pattern CP2among the plurality of second compensation patterns CP2arranged at one end or the other end of the second electrode IE2extending in the second direction DR2may be simultaneously adjacent to the two adjacent first electrodes IE1(or the first outer pattern EP1) extending in the first direction DR1.

Accordingly, the capacitance values of at least two unit sensing areas SUT among the unit sensing areas SUT of the outer part OS may be increased by one compensation pattern. Accordingly, the design efficiency of the touch sensing unit TUS can be increased.

In the embodiment, it is exemplified that each of the compensation patterns compensates for the two unit sensing areas SUT and is adjacent to the three outer patterns, but the numbers are merely an example, and various numbers may be applied according to modification of the touch sensing unit TSU.

FIG.13is an enlarged plan view illustrating another example of region A ofFIG.4.

Referring toFIG.13, the embodiment is different from the previous embodiment in that the plurality of signal wires are not connected to the first and second outer patterns EP1and EP2arranged in the touch sensing area TSA and are connected to the first and second compensation patterns CP1and CP2arranged in the touch peripheral area TPA. It may be assumed that other elements are at least similar to corresponding elements described elsewhere within the disclosure.

For example, the first compensation connection part CPB1of the first compensation pattern CP1may be connected to the first outer pattern EP1in the touch sensing area TSA, and the first compensation peripheral part CPE1of the first compensation pattern CP1may be connected to the first driving wire TL1(or the second driving wire TL2) in the touch peripheral area TPA.

The second compensation connection part CPB2of the second compensation pattern CP2may be connected to the second outer pattern EP2, and the second compensation peripheral part CPE2of the second compensation pattern CP2may be connected to the first sensing wire RL1or the second sensing wire RL2.

Accordingly, the first and second compensation patterns CP1and CP2may compensate for the area of the unit sensing area SUT of the outer part OS, thereby increasing the touch sensitivity of the touch sensing unit TSU.

FIG.14is an enlarged plan view illustrating an example of region A ofFIG.4.

Referring toFIG.14, the embodiment is different from the previous embodiment in that first and second compensation lines CPX1and CPX2to which the plurality of signal wires and the first and second compensation patterns CP1and CP2are connected are further included.

In detail, the driving wires TL and the sensing wires RL arranged in the touch sensing area TSA may be connected to the first and second outer patterns EP1and EP2and, at the same time, may be connected to the first and second compensation patterns CP1and CP2arranged in the touch peripheral area TPA.

For example, the first compensation connection part CPB1of the first compensation pattern CP1may be connected to the first outer pattern EP1in the touch sensing area TSA, the first compensation peripheral part CPE1of the first compensation pattern CP1may be arranged in the touch peripheral area TPA, and the first compensation line CPX1may be connected to the first driving wire TL1in the touch peripheral area TPA. At the same time, the first outer pattern EP1may be connected to the first driving wire TL1.

In the embodiment, each of the plurality of signal wires TL and RL is connected to the first and second outer patterns EP1and EP2and the first and second compensation patterns CP1and CP2, and thus smooth flow of a driving signal and a sensing signal flowing in the first electrode IE1and the second electrode IE2can be maintained.

In the embodiment ofFIGS.4to14, the first and second compensation patterns CP1and CP2arranged in the touch peripheral area TPA are electrically connected to the first and second outer patterns EP1and EP2, and thus the touch sensitivity of the touch sensing unit TSU can be increased. Further, the touch sensitivity of the inner part IS and the outer part OS can be uniformly maintained.

Further, since the touch sensitivity can be increased by applying a touch signal to electrode patterns (for example, the compensation patterns) arranged around the touch sensing area TSA, the display device in which a change of the design of the touch sensing unit TSU is minimized may be implemented.

Hereinafter, the touch sensing unit TSU according to an embodiment of the disclosure will be described. In the following embodiment, the same components as those of the previously described embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and thus to the extent that one or more elements is not described in detail herein, it may be assumed that those elements are at least similar to corresponding elements that have been described elsewhere within the disclosure.

FIG.15is a schematic plan view of a layout of a touch sensing unit according to an embodiment of the disclosure,FIG.16is an enlarged plan view illustrating an example of region D ofFIG.15,FIG.17is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV′ ofFIG.16.FIG.18is an enlarged plan view illustrating an example of region E ofFIG.15, andFIG.19is a cross-sectional view taken along line V-V′ ofFIG.18. It is illustrated inFIGS.15to19that each of the main patterns and each of the outer patterns have a rhombus shape in which irregularities are omitted and four line segments have a completely linear shape.

The touch sensing unit TSU according to the embodiment is different from the touch sensing unit TSU according to the prior embodiment in that the first and second compensation patterns CP1and CP2are close to the touch sensing area TSA, and the widths of the first and second compensation patterns CP1and CP2are large.

In detail, in the embodiment, the first and second compensation connection parts CPB1and CPB2may be arranged exclusively in the touch sensing area TSA. Further, the first and second compensation peripheral parts CPE1and CPE2may completely overlap the light blocking member BM on the window WDL.

Further, in the touch sensing unit TSU according to the embodiment, the first compensation pattern CP1may be connected to the first outer pattern EP1through a contact hole (for example, CNT4), and the second compensation pattern CP2may be connected to the second outer pattern EP2through a contact hole (for example, CNT5). In this case, the first compensation pattern CP1may be connected to the first and second driving wires TL1and TL2, and the second compensation pattern CP2may be connected to the first and second sensing wires RL1and RL2.

Referring toFIGS.17and19, the first touch conductive layer210may include the first and second compensation patterns CP1and CP2having the first and second compensation connection parts CPB1and CPB2arranged in the touch sensing area TSA and the first and second compensation peripheral parts CPE1and CPE2arranged in the touch peripheral area TPA, the first and second driving wires TL1and TL2, and the first and second sensing wires RL1and RL2. The second touch conductive layer220may include the first and second main patterns SP1and SP2and the first and second outer patterns EP1and EP2arranged in the touch sensing area TSA.

Accordingly, the unit sensing area SUT of the outer part OS may be compensated for through the first and second compensation patterns CP1and CP2having a large area, thereby further increasing the touch sensitivity of the touch sensing unit TSU.

Hereinafter, the touch sensing unit TSU according to an embodiment of the disclosure will be described.

FIG.20is an enlarged plan view illustrating an example of region D ofFIG.15,FIG.21is an enlarged plan view illustrating an example of region E ofFIG.15, andFIG.22shows schematic views illustrating a capacitance formed in the touch sensing unit ofFIGS.20and21.FIG.22, element (a) is a schematic view illustrating a capacitance formed in the touch sensing unit ofFIG.20, andFIG.22, element (b) is a schematic view illustrating a capacitance formed in the touch sensing unit ofFIG.21.

Referring toFIGS.20to22, the touch sensing unit TSU according to the embodiment is different from the touch sensing unit TSU according to the prior embodiment in terms of the shapes of first outer patterns EP1mand EP1nand second outer patterns EP2mand EP2n.

When a corresponding area of the plurality of unit sensing areas SUT located in the outer part OS is 50% or less of the area of the unit sensing area SUT located in the inner part IS, the first outer patterns EP1mand EP1nor the second outer patterns EP2mand EP2nof the touch sensing unit TSU may include a protrusion part RT. It is exemplified in the embodiment that a criterion for forming the protrusion part RT is 50%, but the disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto, and this may be applied to all of the unit sensing areas SUT that need to be formed in substantially the same ratio as that of the unit sensing area SUT of the inner part IS.

When the area of the outer pattern connected to the compensation pattern is excessively greater than the area of the outer pattern adjacent to the outer pattern, the area forming the capacitance is different, and thus the touch sensitivity may be non-uniform. The protrusion part RT may be formed in the outer pattern adjacent thereto and may increase the area of the outer pattern.

For example, the area of the first outer pattern EP1mis decreased by the area increased by the first compensation pattern CP1, the protrusion part RT corresponding to the decreased area is formed in the second outer pattern EP2m, and thus the area of the second outer pattern EP2mcan be increased.

As an example, the area of the second outer pattern EP2nis decreased by the area increased by the second compensation pattern CP2, the protrusion part RT corresponding to the decreased area is formed in the first outer pattern EP1n, and thus the area of the first outer pattern EP1ncan be increased.

InFIG.20, the protrusion part RT of the second outer pattern EP2mmay protrude toward the first outer pattern EP1m. The protrusion part RT of the second outer pattern EP2mmay protrude in a direction perpendicular to or inclined with respect to a direction in which the first electrode IE1extends. Further, the protrusion part RT of the second outer pattern EP2mmay extend inward of the first electrode IE1. The area of the second outer pattern EP2mdisposed in the fourth outer part OS4may be increased by the protrusion part RT.

The first outer pattern EP1madjacent to the second outer pattern EP2mmay include a recessed part recessed in a direction opposite to the protrusion part RT. The first compensation pattern CP1adjacent to the second outer pattern EP2mmay be connected to the first outer pattern EP1mincluding the recessed part.

Accordingly, a ratio of the area formed between the second outer pattern EP2mand the first compensation pattern CP1may be substantially the same as or close to a ratio of the area formed between the first main pattern SP1and the second main pattern SP2of the inner part IS.

Referring toFIG.22, element (a), a capacitance value Cm1′ formed by the second outer pattern EP2mand the first compensation pattern CP1may be substantially the same as or close to the capacitance value Cm1formed by the first main pattern SP1and the second main pattern SP2ofFIG.11. In this case, the touch sensitivity of the outer part OS and the inner part IS of the touch sensing unit TSU may become uniform. For example, a decrease in the touch sensitivity of the outer part OS of the touch sensing area TSA can be prevented.

InFIG.21, the protrusion part RT of the first outer pattern EP1nmay protrude toward the second outer pattern EP2n. The protrusion part RT of the first outer pattern EP1nmay protrude in a direction perpendicular or inclined to a direction in which the second electrode IE2extends. Further, the protrusion part RT of the first outer pattern EP1nmay extend inward of the second electrode IE2. The area of the first outer pattern EP1ndisposed in the second outer part OS2may be increased by the protrusion part RT.

The second outer pattern EP2nadjacent to the first outer pattern EP1nmay include a recessed part recessed in a direction opposite to the protrusion part RT. The second compensation pattern CP2adjacent to the first outer pattern EP1nmay be connected to the second outer pattern EP2nincluding the recessed part.

Accordingly, a ratio of the area formed between the first outer pattern EP1nand the second compensation pattern CP2may be substantially the same as or close to the ratio of the area formed between the first main pattern SP1and the second main pattern SP2of the inner part IS.

Referring toFIG.22, element (b), a capacitance value Cm1″ formed by the first outer pattern EP1nand the second compensation pattern CP2may be substantially the same as or close to the capacitance value Cm1formed by the first main pattern SP1and the second main pattern SP2ofFIG.11. In this case, the touch sensitivity of the outer part OS and the inner part IS of the touch sensing unit TSU may become uniform. A decrease in the touch sensitivity of the outer part OS of the touch sensing area TSA can be prevented.

FIGS.23and24are parts of a schematic plan view of a layout of a touch sensing unit according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIGS.23and24, in the touch sensing unit TSU according to the embodiment, the areas of the first and second compensation patterns CP1and CP2connected to the first and second outer patterns EP1and EP2may be differently set in consideration of a difference between the areas of the first and second outer patterns EP1and EP2.

At least some of the unit sensing areas SUT located in the outer part OS of the touch sensing unit TSU may have a larger area than that of the unit sensing area SUT located in the inner part IS. Even in this case, since the capacitance values formed for the unit sensing areas SUT of the touch sensing unit TSU are different, the touch sensitivity may be non-uniform. Thus, compensation patterns having different areas may be connected to the outer patterns arranged in the outer part OS or a compensation pattern might not be connected to any one outer pattern.

For example, first compensation patterns CP1-1, CP1-2, and CP1-3may have different areas corresponding to areas of the first outer patterns EP1-2, EP1-3, and EP1-4connected to the first compensation patterns CP1-1, CP1-2, and CP1-3. Second compensation patterns CP2-1, CP2-2, and CP2-3may have different areas corresponding to areas of the second outer patterns EP2-2, EP2-3, and EP2-4connected to the second compensation patterns CP2-1, CP2-2, and CP2-3.

For example, the compensation pattern might not be connected to the first outer pattern EP1-1having a large area and disposed in the unit sensing area SUT among the first outer patterns EP1-1, EP1-2, EP1-3, and EP1-4. Thus, a first driving wire TL1-1may be directly connected to the first outer pattern EP1-1. In addition, first driving wires TL1-2, TL1-3, and TL1-4may be connected to the first outer patterns EP1-2, EP1-3, and EP1-4through the first compensation patterns CP1-1, CP1-2, and CP1-3, respectively.

Further, the compensation pattern might not be connected to the second outer pattern EP2-1having a large area and disposed in the unit sensing area SUT among the second outer patterns EP2-1, EP2-2, EP2-3, and EP2-4. Thus, a second sensing driving wire RL2-1may be directly connected to the second outer pattern EP2-1. In addition, second sensing wires RL2-2, RL2-3, and RL2-4may be connected to the second outer patterns EP2-2, EP2-3, and EP2-4through the second compensation patterns CP2-1, CP2-2, and CP2-3, respectively.

In the embodiment, since the first and second compensation patterns CP1and CP2may be set in consideration of a ratio of the unit sensing area SUT of the inner part IS, the respective capacitance values become uniform, and thus a RC delay of the driving signal and the sensing signal can be prevented. This may contribute to an increase in recognition rate of a change in the mutual capacitance and may contribute to an increase of the accuracy of touch sensing of the touch sensing unit TSU.

According to a display device according to the embodiments, a compensation pattern is connected to an edge of a sensing electrode, the edge having an area smaller than an area of an inner part of a sensing electrode, and thus the area of the sensing electrode can be increased. Accordingly, a difference between capacitances of the sensing electrodes can be minimized or reduced, and a difference occurring in a touch sensing signal sensed from the sensing electrode can be prevented according to locations. For example, a touch sensing unit having a uniform touch sensitivity and a display device including the same can be provided.

Effects according to the embodiments are not necessarily limited by the contents illustrated above, and more various effects are included in the specification.

In concluding the detailed description, those skilled in the art will appreciate that many variations and modifications can be made to the described embodiments without substantially departing from the principles of the invention.