DISPLAY DEVICE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME

A display device, includes: a plurality of unit areas, each of the plurality of unit areas including a first border having a hexagonal shape including: a first outer side; and a second outer side parallel to the first outer side, and having a length equal to a length of the first outer side; a pixel area in each of the plurality of unit areas, and including a second border having a hexagonal shape including: a first inner side adjacent to the first outer side; and a second inner side adjacent to the second outer side; and first to fourth sub-pixel areas in the pixel area. The second outer side of one unit area from among two unit areas adjacent to each other in a column direction from among the plurality of unit areas contacts the first outer side of another unit area from among the two unit areas.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2022-0031042, filed on Mar. 11, 2022, the entire content of which is incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

Aspects of one or more embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to an organic light emitting display device, and a method of manufacturing the same.

2. Description of the Related Art

An organic light emitting display device is a device for displaying an image, and may include a pixel, which is a minimum unit for displaying an image. The pixel may include a pixel electrode, a pixel defining layer defining an opening exposing the pixel electrode, an organic light emitting material disposed on the pixel electrode to correspond to the opening, a cathode electrode disposed on the organic light emitting material, and/or the like. The opening of the pixel defining layer may define an area and shape of the pixel by exposing the pixel electrode.

SUMMARY

Generally, an organic light emitting material constituting the pixel of the organic light emitting display device may be deposited using a mask including a fine metal mask (FMM). In this case, when a size of one pixel is designed to be relatively small in order to display a high-resolution image in a limited display area, a size of an opening pattern formed in the mask may be very small. Accordingly, it may be difficult to form the opening pattern in the mask, and thus, manufacturing yield of the mask may be reduced.

Further, in a high-resolution organic light emitting display device, a distance between two adjacent pixels may be relatively short. In this case, when the organic light emitting material is deposited in one opening of the pixel defining layer through the opening pattern of the mask, an end of the deposited organic light emitting material may invade another opening of the pixel defining layer, so that two or more organic light emitting materials may be stacked in the other opening of the pixel defining layer. Accordingly, light emitted by the pixel corresponding to the other opening may emit a plurality of different colored light, so that the colors of the light may be mixed with each other.

One or more embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a display device for displaying a high-resolution image in a limited display area.

One or more embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a method of manufacturing the display device.

According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a display device includes: a plurality of unit areas, each of the plurality of unit areas including a first border having a hexagonal shape including: a first outer side; and a second outer side parallel to the first outer side, and having a length equal to a length of the first outer side; a pixel area in each of the plurality of unit areas, and including a second border having a hexagonal shape including: a first inner side adjacent to the first outer side; and a second inner side adjacent to the second outer side; a first sub-pixel area in the pixel area, a border of the first sub-pixel area including the first inner side; a first light emitting material in the first sub-pixel area; a second sub-pixel area in the pixel area, a border of the second sub-pixel area including a first portion of the second border; a second light emitting material in the second sub-pixel area; a third sub-pixel area in the pixel area, a border of the third sub-pixel area including a second portion of the second border different from the first portion of the second border; a third light emitting material in the third sub-pixel area; a fourth sub-pixel area in the pixel area, a border of the fourth sub-pixel area including the second inner side; and the first light emitting material in the fourth sub-pixel area. The second outer side of one unit area from among two unit areas adjacent to each other in a column direction from among the plurality of unit areas contacts the first outer side of another unit area from among the two unit areas.

In an embodiment, a plurality of pixel columns defined by unit areas from among the plurality of unit areas arranged in the column direction may be interlocked with each other, and may be arranged along a row direction crossing the column direction.

In an embodiment, the first border may be point-symmetric with respect to a reference point surrounded by the first border.

In an embodiment, the border of the first sub-pixel area and the border of the second sub-pixel area may be point-symmetric with each other with respect to the reference point.

In an embodiment, the first outer side may be parallel to a row direction crossing the column direction; and the first border may be line-symmetric with respect to each of a first reference line passing through the reference point and extending in the row direction, and a second reference line passing through the reference point and extending in the column direction.

In an embodiment, the border of the first sub-pixel area and the border of the fourth sub-pixel area may be line-symmetric with each other with respect to the first reference line.

In an embodiment, each of all interior angles of the first border and all interior angles of the second border may be less than 180 degrees.

In an embodiment, the first border may include: a third outer side contacting one end of the first outer side; a fourth outer side connecting the third outer side to one end of the second outer side; a fifth outer side contacting another end of the first outer side opposite to the one end of the first outer side; and a sixth outer side connecting the fifth outer side to another end of the second outer side opposite to the one end of the second outer side.

In an embodiment, the second border may include: a third inner side contacting one end of the first inner side; a fourth inner side connecting the third inner side to one end of the second inner side; a fifth inner side contacting another end of the first inner side opposite to the one end of the first inner side; and a sixth inner side connecting the fifth inner side to another end of the second inner side opposite to the one end of the second inner side.

In an embodiment, the first inner side and the first outer side may be parallel to each other; the second inner side and the second outer side may be parallel to each other; the third inner side and the third outer side may be parallel to each other; the fourth inner side and the fourth outer side may be parallel to each other; the fifth inner side and the fifth outer side may be parallel to each other; and the sixth inner side and the sixth outer side may be parallel to each other.

In an embodiment, the first inner side and the first outer side may be spaced from each other by a first distance; the second inner side and the second outer side may be spaced from each other by a second distance; the third inner side and the third outer side may be spaced from each other by a third distance; the fourth inner side and the fourth outer side may be spaced from each other by a fourth distance; the fifth inner side and the fifth outer side may be spaced from each other by a fifth distance; the sixth inner side and the sixth outer side may be spaced from each other by a sixth distance; and the first distance, the second distance, the third distance, the fourth distance, the fifth distance, and the sixth distance may be equal to each other.

In an embodiment, the border of the second sub-pixel area may include a portion of the third inner side adjacent to the fourth inner side, and a portion of the fourth inner side adjacent to the third inner side; and the border of the third sub-pixel area may include a portion of the fifth inner side adjacent to the sixth inner side, and a portion of the sixth inner side adjacent to the fifth inner side.

In an embodiment, each of the border of the first sub-pixel area and the border of the fourth sub-pixel area may have an N-sided polygon shape, where N is equal to 3, 4, 5, or 6.

In an embodiment, each of the border of the second sub-pixel area and the border of the third sub-pixel area may have an M-sided polygon shape, where M is equal to 4 or 5.

In an embodiment, an area of the first sub-pixel area may be the same size as that of an area of the fourth sub-pixel area.

In an embodiment, an area of the first sub-pixel area may be smaller than an area of the second sub-pixel area, and smaller than an area of the third sub-pixel area; and an area of the fourth sub-pixel area may be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area, and smaller than the area of the third sub-pixel area.

In an embodiment, an area of the third sub-pixel area may be larger than an area of the second sub-pixel area.

In an embodiment, the first light emitting material may be configured to emit light having a first color; the second light emitting material may be configured to emit light having a second color different from the first color; and the third light emitting material may be configured to emit light having a third color different from each of the first color and the second color.

In an embodiment, the light of the first color may have a peak wavelength in a range of 510 nanometers or more, and 550 nanometers or less; the light of the second color may have a peak wavelength in a range of 610 nanometers or more, and 650 nanometers or less; and the light of the third color may have a peak wavelength in a range of 440 nanometers or more, and 480 nanometers or less.

According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a method of manufacturing a display device, includes: forming a pixel defining layer including: a plurality of unit areas, each of the plurality of unit areas including a first border having a hexagonal shape including: a first outer side; and a second outer side parallel to the first outer side, and having a length equal to a length of the first outer side; and a pixel area disposed in each of the plurality of unit areas, and including a second border having a hexagonal shape including: a first inner side adjacent to the first outer side; and a second inner side adjacent to the second outer side; forming a plurality of pixel openings in the pixel defining layer, the plurality of pixel openings including: a first pixel opening defining a first sub-pixel area in the pixel area, a border of the first sub-pixel area including the first inner side; a second pixel opening defining a second sub-pixel area in the pixel area, a border of the second sub-pixel area including a first portion of the second border; a third pixel opening defining a third sub-pixel area in the pixel area, a border of the third sub-pixel area including a second portion of the second border different from the first portion of the second border; and a fourth pixel opening defining a fourth sub-pixel area in the pixel area, a border of the fourth sub-pixel area including the second inner side; depositing a first light emitting material in the first pixel opening and the fourth pixel opening; depositing a second light emitting material in the second pixel opening; and depositing a third light emitting material in the third pixel opening. The second outer side of one unit area from among two unit areas adjacent to each other in a column direction from among the plurality of unit areas contacts the first outer side of another unit area from among the two unit areas.

In an embodiment, the depositing of the first light emitting material may include disposing a first mask defining a first opening pattern on the pixel defining layer; the depositing of the second light emitting material may include disposing a second mask defining a second opening pattern on the pixel defining layer; and the depositing of the third light emitting material may include disposing a third mask defining a third opening pattern on the pixel defining layer.

In an embodiment, the first opening pattern may concurrently expose the fourth sub-pixel area of the one unit area from among the two unit areas and the first sub-pixel area of the other unit area from among the two unit areas.

In an embodiment, an area of the first opening pattern may be 80% or more, and 120% or less of an area of the third opening pattern; and an area of the second opening pattern may be 80% or more, and 120% or less of the area of the third opening pattern.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the display device may include a plurality of unit areas, a pixel area disposed in each of the plurality of unit areas, and first to fourth sub-pixel areas disposed in the pixel areas. Accordingly, a high-resolution image may be displayed in a display area having a limited area.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the method of manufacturing the display device may include depositing a first light emitting material in first and fourth pixel openings corresponding to first and fourth sub-pixel areas, depositing a second light emitting material in a second pixel opening corresponding to a second sub-pixel area, and depositing a third light emitting material in a third pixel opening corresponding to a third sub-pixel area. In this case, the first light emitting material may be concurrently (e.g., simultaneously) deposited in the fourth pixel opening of one unit area of two adjacent unit areas, and the first pixel opening of another unit area of the two adjacent unit areas. Accordingly, yield of the deposition process may be improved.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are provided as examples, and are intended to provide a further description and explanation of the aspects and features of the present disclosure as claimed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the figures, the x-axis, the y-axis, and the z-axis are not limited to three axes of the rectangular coordinate system, and may be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the x-axis, the y-axis, and the z-axis may be perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to one another, or may represent different directions from each other that are not perpendicular to one another.

FIG.1is a plan view illustrating a display device according to an embodiment.FIG.2is a diagram illustrating a unit area and a pixel area included in the display device ofFIG.1.

Referring toFIG.1andFIG.2, a display device may include a display area DA. The display area DA may be an area for displaying an image. InFIG.1, a portion of the display area DA is illustrated for convenience of illustration.

The display area DA may be divided into a plurality of unit areas UA. The plurality of unit areas UA may be defined as a set of minimum units capable of filling the display area DA without blanking or overlapping with each other. Each of the plurality of unit areas UA may have the same or substantially the same shape as each other. In more detail, in any one unit area UA from among the plurality of unit areas UA, the unit area UA may have a hexagonal shape in which each of all interior angles is less than 180 degrees.

Each of the plurality of unit areas UA may have a first border defining a boundary of each of the plurality of unit areas UA. The first border may be an imaginary line that is not recognized by a user of the display device.

In an embodiment, the first border may be point-symmetric with respect to a reference point RP located within (e.g., at a center of) the unit area UA. In this case, the phrase “the reference point RP is located within the unit area UA” may have the same or substantially the same meaning as the phrase “the reference point RP is surrounded (e.g., around a periphery thereof) by the first border”. In addition, the first border may be line-symmetric with respect to each of a first reference line RL1passing (e.g., extending) through the reference point in a row direction Dr, and a second reference line RL2passing (e.g., extending) through the reference point in a column direction Dc crossing (e.g., perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to) the row direction Dr.

In an embodiment, the first border may have a hexagonal shape including a first outer side O1, a second outer side O2, a third outer side O3, a fourth outer side O4, a fifth outer side O5, and a sixth outer side O6.

A length of the first outer side O1may be the same or substantially the same as a length of the second outer side O2, and the first outer side O1may be parallel to or substantially parallel to the second outer side O2. In addition, the first outer side O1may be parallel to or substantially parallel to the row direction Dr. Accordingly, the second outer side O2of one unit area UA from among two unit areas UA that are adjacent to each other in the column direction Dc from among the plurality of unit areas UA may contact the first outer side O1of the other unit area UA from among the two unit areas UA.

The third outer side O3and the fourth outer side O4may connect one end of the first outer side O1and one end of the second outer side O2to each other. The fifth outer side O5and the sixth outer side O6may connect the other end of the first outer side O1opposite to the one end of the first outer side O1and the other end of the second outer side O2opposite to the one end of the second outer side O2to each other.

A pixel area PXA may be disposed in each of the plurality of unit areas UA. The pixel area PXA may have a hexagonal shape in which a size of each of all interior angles is less than 180 degrees.

The pixel area PXA may have a second border defining a boundary of the pixel area PXA. The second border may be an imaginary line that is not recognized by a user of the display device. Because the pixel area PXA is disposed in each of the plurality of unit areas UA, the second border may be disposed inside (e.g., within) the first border. In this case, the second border may be spaced apart from the first border.

In an embodiment, the second border may be point-symmetric with respect to the reference point RP located within (e.g., at a center of) the unit area UA (e.g., or within (e.g., at a center of) the pixel area PXA). In addition, the second border may be line-symmetric with respect to each of the first reference line RL1passing (e.g., extending) through the reference point in the row direction Dr and the second reference line RL2passing (e.g., extending) through the reference point in the column direction Dc.

In an embodiment, the second border may have a hexagonal shape including a first inner side I1adjacent to the first outer side O1, a second inner side I2adjacent to the second outer side O2, a third inner side I3adjacent to the third outer side O3, a fourth inner side I4adjacent to the fourth outer side O4, a fifth inner side I5adjacent to the fifth outer side O5, and a sixth inner side I6adjacent to the sixth outer side O6.

The third inner side I3and the fourth inner side I4may connect one end of the first inner side I1and one end of the second inner side I2to each other. The fifth inner side I5and the sixth inner side I6may connect the other end of the first inner side I1opposite to the one end of the first inner side I1and the other end of the second inner side I2opposite to the one end of the second inner side I2to each other.

In an embodiment, the first inner side I1may be parallel to or substantially parallel to the first outer side O1, the second inner side I2may be parallel to or substantially parallel to the second outer side O2, the third inner side I3may be parallel to or substantially parallel to the third outer side O3, the fourth inner side I4may be parallel to or substantially parallel to the fourth outer side O4, the fifth inner side I5may be parallel to or substantially parallel to the fifth outer side O5, and the sixth inner side I6may be parallel to or substantially parallel to the sixth outer side O6.

In this case, the first inner side I1may be spaced apart from the first outer side O1by a first distance D1, the second inner side I2may be spaced apart from the second outer side O2by a second distance D2, the third inner side I3may be spaced apart from the third outer side O3by a third distance D3, the fourth inner side I4may be spaced apart from the fourth outer side O4by a fourth distance D4, the fifth inner side I5may be spaced apart from the fifth outer side O5by a fifth distance D5, and the sixth inner side I6may be spaced apart from the sixth outer side O6by a sixth distance D6.

In an embodiment, the first distance D1, the second distance D2, the third distance D3, the fourth distance D4, the fifth distance D5, and the sixth distance D6may be identical or substantially identical to each other.

A first sub-pixel area SA1a, a second sub-pixel area SA2a, a third sub-pixel area SA3a, and a fourth sub-pixel area SA4amay be disposed in the pixel area PXA. Each of the first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1a, SA2a, SA3a, and SA4amay be a minimum unit for emitting or substantially emitting light. For example, each of the first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1a, SA2a, SA3a, and SA4amay correspond to an opening of a pixel defining layer (e.g., refer to PDL ofFIG.4), and a light emitting material may be disposed in the opening. This will be described in more detail below with reference toFIG.3andFIG.4.

A border of the first sub-pixel area SA1amay include the first inner side I1. A border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4amay include the second inner side I2. Accordingly, in one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the fourth sub-pixel area SA4adisposed in one unit area UA from among two unit areas UA that are adjacent to each other in the column direction Dc from among the plurality of unit areas UA may be adjacent to the first sub-pixel area SA1aof the other unit area UA from among the two unit areas UA.

A border of the second sub-pixel area SA2amay include a portion of the second border. For example, the second sub-pixel area SA2amay include a portion of the third inner side I3adjacent to the fourth inner side I4, and a portion of the fourth inner side I4adjacent to the third inner side I3.

A border of the third sub-pixel area SA3amay include another portion of the second border. For example, the third sub-pixel area SA3amay include a portion of the fifth inner side I5adjacent to the sixth inner side I6, and a portion of the sixth inner side I6adjacent to the fifth inner side I5.

Unit areas UA arranged in the column direction Dc from among the plurality of unit areas UA may define a plurality of pixel columns. For example, the plurality of pixel columns may include a first pixel column C1, and a second pixel column C2adjacent to the first pixel column C1in the row direction Dr. The second pixel column C2may be a pixel column in which the first pixel column C1is shifted by a suitable distance (e.g., a predetermined distance) in the column direction Dc.

The plurality of pixel columns may be interlocked with one another, and arranged along the row direction Dr. For example, the first pixel column C1and the second pixel column C2may be interlocked with each other, and alternately arranged along the row direction Dr.

FIG.3is a plan view illustrating a sub-pixel area according to a first embodiment.FIG.4is a cross-sectional view taken along the line I-I′ ofFIG.3.

The unit area UA, the pixel area PXA, and the first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1a, SA2a, SA3a, and SA4aillustrated inFIG.3may be the same or substantially the same as the unit area UA, the pixel area PXA, and the first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1a, SA2a, SA3a, and SA4adescribed above with reference toFIG.1andFIG.2, and thus, redundant description thereof may not be repeated.

Referring toFIG.3andFIG.4, the display device may include a substrate SUB, first to fourth pixel electrodes PXE1, PXE2, PXE3, and PXE4, a pixel defining layer PDL, and first to third light emitting materials EL1, EL2, and EL3.

The substrate SUB may include a plurality of insulation layers, and a plurality of transistors. In an embodiment, the substrate SUB may include a material having flexibility, so as to be repeatedly folded and/or unfolded.

The first to fourth pixel electrodes PXE1, PXE2, PXE3, and PXE4may be disposed on the substrate SUB. The first to fourth pixel electrodes PXE1, PXE2, PXE3, and PXE4may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other. The first to fourth pixel electrodes PXE1, PXE2, PXE3, and PXE4may be disposed in the unit area UA. Each of the first to fourth pixel electrodes PXE1, PXE2, PXE3, and PXE4may be electrically connected to the plurality of transistors. In an embodiment, each of the first to fourth pixel electrodes PXE1, PXE2, PXE3, and PXE4may be referred to as an anode electrode.

The pixel defining layer PDL may be disposed on the first to fourth pixel electrodes PXE1, PXE2, PXE3, and PXE4. The pixel defining layer PDL may include an organic material. The pixel defining layer PDL may define an opening exposing each of the first to fourth pixel electrodes PXE1, PXE2, PXE3, and PXE4. The opening may include a first pixel opening exposing the first pixel electrode PXE1, a second pixel opening exposing the second pixel electrode PXE2, a third pixel opening exposing the third pixel electrode PXE3, and a fourth pixel opening exposing the fourth pixel electrode PXE4.

The first to third light emitting materials EL1, EL2, and EL3may include a suitable material for emitting light. For example, the first to third light emitting materials EL1, EL2, and EL3may include an organic light emitting material. The first to third light emitting materials EL1, EL2, and EL3may be disposed in the opening. In more detail, the first light emitting material EL1may be disposed in the first pixel opening and the fourth pixel opening, the second light emitting material EL2may be disposed in the second pixel opening, and the third light emitting material EL3may be disposed in the third pixel opening.

In an embodiment, the first to third light emitting materials EL1, EL2, and EL3may be further disposed on the pixel defining layer PDL. In this case, an area in which the first light emitting material EL1may be located may be a first area Ala and a fourth area A4a, an area in which the second light emitting material EL2may be located may be a second area A2a, and an area in which the third light emitting material EL3may be located may be a third area A3a. The first to fourth areas A1a, A2a, A3a, and A4amay be disposed in the unit area UA. In an embodiment, an entire outer border of the first to fourth areas A1a, A2a, A3a, and A4amay be the same or substantially the same as the first border of the unit area UA.

In an embodiment, the first light emitting material EL1may emit light having a first color, the second light emitting material EL2may emit light having a second color, and the third light emitting material EL3may emit light having a third color. In this case, the light of the first color may have a peak wavelength in a range of about 510 nm or more and about 550 nm or less, the light of the second color may have a peak wavelength in a range of about 610 nm or more and about 650 nm or less, and the light of the third color may have a peak wavelength in a range of about 440 nm or more and about 480 nm or less. In other words, the first color may be green, the second color may be red, and the third color may be blue.

Although not shown inFIG.3andFIG.4, a common electrode covering the first to third light emitting materials EL1, EL2, and EL3may be disposed on the pixel defining layer PDL. The common electrode may include a transparent conductive material. In an embodiment, the common electrode may be referred to as a cathode electrode.

The first sub-pixel area SA1amay be defined as an area corresponding to the first pixel opening. The first sub-pixel area SA1amay be an area in which light is emitted or substantially emitted from the first light emitting material EL1among the first area A1a.

The first sub-pixel area SA1amay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the first sub-pixel area SA1amay include the first inner side I1, a portion of the third inner side I3adjacent to the first inner side I1, and a portion of the fifth inner side I5adjacent to the first inner side I1.

When the first sub-pixel area SA1ahas the pentagonal shape, the first area A1amay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the first area A1amay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the first sub-pixel area SA1a.

The second sub-pixel area SA2amay be defined as an area corresponding to the second pixel opening. The second sub-pixel area SA2amay be an area in which light is emitted or substantially emitted from the second light emitting material EL2among the second area A2a.

The second sub-pixel area SA2amay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the second sub-pixel area SA2amay include a portion of the third inner side I3adjacent to the fourth inner side I4, and a portion of the fourth inner side I4adjacent to the third inner side I3.

When the second sub-pixel area SA2ahas the pentagonal shape, the second area A2amay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the second area A2amay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the second sub-pixel area SA2a.

The third sub-pixel area SA3amay be defined as an area corresponding to the third pixel opening. The third sub-pixel area SA3amay be an area in which light is emitted or substantially emitted from the third light emitting material EL3among the third area A3a.

The third sub-pixel area SA3amay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the third sub-pixel area SA3amay include a portion of the fifth inner side I5adjacent to the sixth inner side I6, and a portion of the sixth inner side I6adjacent to the fifth inner side I5.

When the third sub-pixel area SA3ahas the pentagonal shape, the third area A3amay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the third area A3amay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the third sub-pixel area SA3a.

The fourth sub-pixel area SA4amay be defined as an area corresponding to the fourth pixel opening. The fourth sub-pixel area SA4amay be an area in which light is emitted or substantially emitted from the first light emitting material EL1among the fourth area A4a.

The fourth sub-pixel area SA4amay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4amay include the second inner side I2, a portion of the fourth inner side I4adjacent to the second inner side I2, and a portion of the sixth inner side I6adjacent to the second inner side I2.

In an embodiment, the border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4aand the border of the first sub-pixel area SA1amay be line-symmetric with each other with respect to the first reference line RL1described above with reference toFIG.2.

When the fourth-sub-pixel area SA4ahas the pentagonal shape, the fourth area A4amay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the fourth area SA4amay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the fourth sub-pixel area SA4a.

In order to increase or maximize luminous efficiency of the first to third light emitting materials EL1, EL2, and EL3, each of the first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1a, SA2a, SA3a, and SA4amay have various suitable areas.

In an embodiment, an area of the first sub-pixel area SA1amay be the same or substantially the same as an area of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4a.

In an embodiment, an area of the second sub-pixel area SA2amay be different from an area of the third sub-pixel area SA3a. For example, the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3amay be larger than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2a. As another example, the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3amay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2a.

In an embodiment, the area of the first sub-pixel area SA1amay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2a, and may be smaller than the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3a. In addition, the area of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4amay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2a, and may be smaller than the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3a.

FIG.5is a plan view illustrating a sub-pixel area according to a second embodiment.

The unit area UA and the pixel area PXA illustrated inFIG.5may be the same or substantially same as (or similar to) the unit area UA and the pixel area PXA described above with reference toFIG.1andFIG.2, and thus, redundant description thereof may not be repeated.

Referring toFIG.5, first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1b, SA2b, SA3b, and SA4baccording to the second embodiment may be the same or substantially the same as (or similar to) the first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1a, SA2a, SA3a, and SA4adescribed above with reference toFIG.3andFIG.4, except for a planar shape thereof. In addition, first to fourth areas A1b, A2b, A3b, and A4baccording to the second embodiment may be the same or substantially same as the first to fourth areas A1a, A2a, A3a, and A4adescribed above with reference toFIG.3andFIG.4, except for a planar shape thereof. Accordingly, redundant description thereof may not be repeated, and the differences therebetween may be mainly described hereinafter.

The first sub-pixel area SA1bmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the first sub-pixel area SA1bmay include the first inner side I1, a portion of the third inner side I3adjacent to the first inner side I1, and a portion of the fifth inner side I5adjacent to the first inner side I1.

When the first sub-pixel area SA1bhas the pentagonal shape, the first area A1bmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the first area A1bmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the first sub-pixel area SA1b.

The second sub-pixel area SA2bmay have a quadrangular shape. In this case, a border of the second sub-pixel area SA2bmay include a portion of the third inner side I3adjacent to the fourth inner side I4, and a portion of the fourth inner side I4adjacent to the third inner side I3.

When the second sub-pixel area SA2bhas the quadrangular shape, the second area A2bmay have a quadrangular shape. In this case, a border of the second area A2bmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the second sub-pixel area SA2b.

The third sub-pixel area SA3bmay have a quadrangular shape. In this case, a border of the third sub-pixel area SA3bmay include a portion of the fifth inner side I5adjacent to the sixth inner side I6, and a portion of the sixth inner side I6adjacent to the fifth inner side I5.

When the third sub-pixel area SA3bhas the quadrangular shape, the third area A3bmay have a quadrangular shape. In this case, a border of the third area A3bmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the third sub-pixel area SA3a.

The fourth sub-pixel area SA4bmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4bmay include the second inner side I2, a portion of the fourth inner side I4adjacent to the second inner side I2, and a portion of the sixth inner side I6adjacent to the second inner side I2.

In an embodiment, the border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4band the border of the first sub-pixel area SA1bmay be line-symmetric with each other with respect to the first reference line RL1described above with reference toFIG.2.

When the fourth sub-pixel area SA4bhas the pentagonal shape, the fourth area SA4bmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the fourth area A4bmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4b.

Each of the first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1b, SA2b, SA3b, and SA4bmay have various suitable areas.

In an embodiment, an area of the first sub-pixel area SA1bmay be the same or substantially the same as an area of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4b.

In an embodiment, an area of the second sub-pixel area SA2bmay be different from an area of the third sub-pixel area SA3b. For example, the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3bmay be larger than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2b. As another example, the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3bmay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2b.

In an embodiment, the area of the first sub-pixel area SA1bmay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2b, and may be smaller than the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3b. In addition, the area of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4bmay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2b, and may be smaller than the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3b.

FIG.6is a plan view illustrating a sub-pixel area according to a third embodiment.

The unit area UA and the pixel area PXA illustrated inFIG.6may be the same or substantially the same as the unit area UA and the pixel area PXA described above with reference toFIG.1andFIG.2, and thus, redundant description thereof may not be repeated.

Referring toFIG.6, first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1c, SA2c, SA3c, and SA4caccording to the third embodiment may be the same or substantially the same as the first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1a, SA2a, SA3a, and SA4adescribed above with reference toFIG.3andFIG.4, except for a planar shape thereof. In addition, first to fourth areas A1c, A2c, A3c, and A4caccording to the third embodiment may be the same or substantially the same as the first to fourth areas A1a, A2a, A3a, and A4adescribed above with reference toFIG.3andFIG.4, except for a planar shape thereof. Accordingly, redundant description thereof may not be repeated, and the differences therebetween may be mainly described hereinafter.

The first sub-pixel area SA1cmay have a quadrangular shape. In this case, a border of the first sub-pixel area SA1cmay include the first inner side I1, a portion of the third inner side I3adjacent to the first inner side I1, and a portion of the fifth inner side I5adjacent to the first inner side I1.

When the first sub-pixel area SA1chas the quadrangular shape, the first area A1cmay have a quadrangular shape. In this case, a border of the first area A1cmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the first sub-pixel area SA1c.

The second sub-pixel area SA2cmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the second sub-pixel area SA2cmay include a portion of the third inner side I3adjacent to the fourth inner side I4, and a portion of the fourth inner side I4adjacent to the third inner side I3.

When the second sub-pixel area SA2chas the pentagonal shape, the second area A2cmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the second area A2cmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the second sub-pixel area SA2c.

The third sub-pixel area SA3cmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the third sub-pixel area SA3cmay include a portion of the fifth inner side I5adjacent to the sixth inner side I6and a portion of the sixth inner side I6adjacent to the fifth inner side I5.

When the third sub-pixel area SA3chas the pentagonal shape, the third area A3cmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the third area A3cmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the third sub-pixel area SA3c.

The fourth sub-pixel area SA4cmay have a quadrangular shape. In this case, a border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4cmay include the second inner side I2, a portion of the fourth inner side I4adjacent to the second inner side I2, and a portion of the sixth inner side I6adjacent to the second inner side I2.

In an embodiment, the border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4cand the border of the first sub-pixel area SA1cmay be line-symmetric with each other with respect to the first reference line RL1described above with reference toFIG.2. In addition, each of the border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4cand the border of the first sub-pixel area SA1cmay be line-symmetric with each other with respect to the second reference line RL2described above with reference toFIG.2.

When the fourth sub-pixel area SA4chas the quadrangular shape, the fourth area A4cmay have a quadrangular shape. In this case, a border of the fourth area A4cmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4c.

Each of the first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1c, SA2c, SA3c, and SA4cmay have various suitable areas.

In an embodiment, an area of the first sub-pixel area SA1cmay be the same or substantially the same as an area of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4c.

In an embodiment, an area of the second sub-pixel area SA2cmay be different from an area of the third sub-pixel area SA3c. For example, the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3cmay be larger than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2c. As another example, the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3cmay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2c.

In an embodiment, the area of the first sub-pixel area SA1cmay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2c, and may be smaller than the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3c. In addition, the area of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4cmay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2c, and may be smaller than the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3c.

FIG.7is a plan view illustrating a sub-pixel area according to a fourth embodiment.

The unit area UA and the pixel area PXA illustrated inFIG.7may be the same or substantially the same as the unit area UA and the pixel area PXA described above with reference toFIG.1andFIG.2, and thus, redundant description thereof may not be repeated.

Referring toFIG.7, first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1d, SA2d, SA3d, and SA4daccording to the fourth embodiment may be the same or substantially same as the first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1a, SA2a, SA3a, and SA4adescribed above with reference toFIG.3andFIG.4, except for a planar shape thereof. In addition, first to fourth areas A1d, A2d, A3d, and A4daccording to the fourth embodiment may be the same or substantially the same as the first to fourth areas A1a, A2a, A3a, and A4adescribed above with reference toFIG.3andFIG.4, except for a planar shape thereof. Accordingly, redundant description thereof may not be repeated, and the differences therebetween may be mainly described hereinafter.

The first sub-pixel area SA1dmay have a quadrangular shape. In this case, a border of the first sub-pixel area SA1dmay include the first inner side I1, a portion of the third inner side I3adjacent to the first inner side I1, and a portion of the fifth inner side I5adjacent to the first inner side I1.

When the first sub-pixel area SA1dhas the quadrangular shape, the first area A1dmay have a quadrangular shape. In this case, a border of the first area A1dmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the first sub-pixel area SA1d.

The second sub-pixel area SA2dmay have a quadrangular shape. In this case, a border of the second sub-pixel area SA2dmay include a portion of the third inner side I3adjacent to the fourth inner side I4, and a portion of the fourth inner side I4adjacent to the third inner side I3.

When the second sub-pixel area SA2dhas the quadrangular shape, the second area A2dmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the second area A2cmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the second sub-pixel area SA2c.

The third sub-pixel area SA3dmay have a quadrangular shape. In this case, a border of the third sub-pixel area SA3dmay include a portion of the fifth inner side I5adjacent to the sixth inner side I6, and a portion of the sixth inner side I6adjacent to the fifth inner side I5.

When the third sub-pixel area SA3dhas the quadrangular shape, the third area A3dmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the third area A3dmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the third sub-pixel area SA3d.

The fourth sub-pixel area SA4dmay have a quadrangular shape. In this case, a border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4dmay include the second inner side I2, a portion of the fourth inner side I4adjacent to the second inner side I2, and a portion of the sixth inner side I6adjacent to the second inner side I2.

In an embodiment, the border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4dand the border of the first sub-pixel area SA1dmay be line-symmetric with each other with respect to the first reference line RL1described above with reference toFIG.2. In addition, each of the border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4dand the border of the first sub-pixel area SA1dmay be line-symmetric with each other with respect to the second reference line RL2described above with reference toFIG.2.

When the fourth sub-pixel area SA4dhas the quadrangular shape, the fourth area A4dmay have a quadrangular shape. In this case, a border of the fourth area A4dmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4d.

Each of the first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1d, SA2d, SA3d, and SA4dmay have various suitable areas.

In an embodiment, an area of the first sub-pixel area SA1dmay be the same or substantially the same as an area of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4d.

In an embodiment, an area of the second sub-pixel area SA2dmay be different from an area of the third sub-pixel area SA3d. For example, the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3dmay be larger than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2d. As another example, the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3dmay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2d.

In an embodiment, the area of the first sub-pixel area SA1dmay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2d, and may be smaller than the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3d. In addition, the area of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4dmay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2d, and may be smaller than the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3d.

FIG.8is a plan view illustrating a sub-pixel area according to a fifth embodiment.

The unit area UA and the pixel area PXA illustrated inFIG.8may be the same or substantially the same as the unit area UA and the pixel area PXA described above with reference toFIG.1andFIG.2, and thus, redundant description thereof may not be repeated.

Referring toFIG.8, first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1e, SA2e, SA3e, and SA4eaccording to the fifth embodiment may be the same or substantially the same as the first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1a, SA2a, SA3a, and SA4adescribed above with reference toFIG.3andFIG.4, except for a planar shape thereof. In addition, first to fourth areas A1e, A2e, A3e, and A4eaccording to the fifth embodiment may be the same or substantially same as the first to fourth areas A1a, A2a, A3a, and A4adescribed above with reference toFIG.3andFIG.4, except for a planar shape thereof. Accordingly, redundant description thereof may not be repeated, and the differences therebetween may be mainly described hereinafter.

The first sub-pixel area SA1emay have a quadrangular shape. In this case, a border of the first sub-pixel area SA1emay include the first inner side I1, and a portion of the fifth inner side I5adjacent to the first inner side I1.

When the first sub-pixel area SA1ehas the quadrangular shape, the first area A1emay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the first area A1emay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the first sub-pixel area SA1e.

The second sub-pixel area SA2emay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the second sub-pixel area SA2emay include a portion of the third inner side I3adjacent to the fourth inner side I4, and a portion of the fourth inner side I4adjacent to the third inner side I3.

When the second sub-pixel area SA2ehas the pentagonal shape, the second area A2emay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the second area A2emay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the second sub-pixel area SA2e.

The third sub-pixel area SA3emay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the third sub-pixel area SA3emay include a portion of the fifth inner side I5adjacent to the sixth inner side I6, and a portion of the sixth inner side I6adjacent to the fifth inner side I5.

When the third sub-pixel area SA3ehas the pentagonal shape, the third area A3emay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the third area A3emay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the third sub-pixel area SA3e.

The fourth sub-pixel area SA4emay have a quadrangular shape. In this case, a border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4emay include the second inner side I2, and a portion of the sixth inner side I6adjacent to the second inner side I2.

In an embodiment, the border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4eand the border of the first sub-pixel area SA1emay be line-symmetric with each other with respect to the first reference line RL1described above with reference toFIG.2.

When the fourth sub-pixel area SA4dhas the quadrangular shape, the fourth area A4dmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the fourth area A4emay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4e.

Each of the first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1e, SA2e, SA3e, and SA4dmay have various suitable areas.

In an embodiment, an area of the first sub-pixel area SA1emay be the same or substantially the same as an area of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4e.

In an embodiment, an area of the second sub-pixel area SA2emay be different from an area of the third sub-pixel area SA3e. For example, the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3emay be larger than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2e. As another example, the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3emay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2e.

In an embodiment, the area of the first sub-pixel area SA1emay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2e, and may be smaller than the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3e. In addition, the area of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4emay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2e, and may be smaller than the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3e.

FIG.9is a plan view illustrating a sub-pixel area according to a sixth embodiment.

The unit area UA and the pixel area PXA illustrated inFIG.9may be the same or substantially the same as the unit area UA and the pixel area PXA described above with reference toFIG.1andFIG.2, and thus, redundant description thereof may not be repeated.

Referring toFIG.9, first to fourth sub-pixel areas Skit SA2f, SA3f, and SA4faccording to the sixth embodiment may be the same or substantially the same as the first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1a, SA2a, SA3a, and SA4adescribed above with reference toFIG.3andFIG.4, except for a planar shape thereof. In addition, first to fourth areas A1f, A2f, A3f, and A4faccording to the sixth embodiment may be the same or substantially the same as the first to fourth areas A1a, A2a, A3a, and A4adescribed above with reference toFIG.3andFIG.4, except for a planar shape thereof. Accordingly, redundant description thereof may not be repeated, and the differences therebetween may be mainly described hereinafter.

The first sub-pixel area SA1fmay have a hexagonal shape. In this case, a border of the first sub-pixel area SA1fmay include the first inner side I1, a portion of the third inner side I3adjacent to the first inner side I1, and a portion of the fifth inner side I5adjacent to the first inner side I1.

When the first sub-pixel area SA1fhas the hexagonal shape, the first area Alf may have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the first area Alf may surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the first sub-pixel area SA1f.

The second sub-pixel area SA2fmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the second sub-pixel area SA2fmay include a portion of the third inner side I3adjacent to the fourth inner side I4, and a portion of the fourth inner side I4adjacent to the third inner side I3.

When the second sub-pixel area SA2fhas the pentagonal shape, the second area A2fmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the second area A2fmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the second sub-pixel area SA2f.

The third sub-pixel area SA3fmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the third sub-pixel area SA3fmay include a portion of the fifth inner side I5adjacent to the sixth inner side I6, and a portion of the sixth inner side I6adjacent to the fifth inner side I5.

When the third sub-pixel area SA3fhas the pentagonal shape, the third area A3fmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the third area A3fmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the third sub-pixel area SA3f.

The fourth sub-pixel area SA4fmay have a hexagonal shape. In this case, a border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4fmay include the second inner side I2, a portion of the fourth inner side I4adjacent to the second inner side I2, and a portion of the sixth inner side I6adjacent to the second inner side I2.

In an embodiment, the border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4fand the border of the first sub-pixel area SA1fmay be line-symmetric with each other with respect to the first reference line RL1described above with reference toFIG.2.

When the fourth sub-pixel area SA4fhas the hexagonal shape, the fourth area A4fmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the fourth area A4fmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4f.

Each of the first to fourth sub-pixel areas Skit SA2f, SA3f, and SA4fmay have various suitable areas.

In an embodiment, an area of the first sub-pixel area SA1fmay be the same or substantially the same as an area of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4f.

In an embodiment, an area of the second sub-pixel area SA2fmay be different from an area of the third sub-pixel area SA3f. For example, the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3fmay be larger than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2f. As another example, the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3fmay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2f.

In an embodiment, the area of the first sub-pixel area SA1fmay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2f, and may be smaller than the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3f. In addition, the area of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4fmay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2f, and may be smaller than the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3f.

FIG.10is a plan view illustrating a sub-pixel area according to a seventh embodiment.

The unit area UA and the pixel area PXA illustrated inFIG.10may be the same or substantially the same as the unit area UA and the pixel area PXA described above with reference toFIG.1andFIG.2, and thus, redundant description thereof may not be repeated.

Referring toFIG.10, first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1g, SA2g, SA3g, and SA4gaccording to the seventh embodiment may be the same or substantially the same as the first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1a, SA2a, SA3a, and SA4adescribed above with reference toFIG.3andFIG.4, except for a planar shape thereof. In addition, first to fourth areas A1g, A2g, A3g, and A4gaccording to the seventh embodiment may be the same or substantially the same as the first to fourth areas Ala, A2a, A3a, and A4adescribed above with reference toFIG.3andFIG.4, except for a planar shape thereof. Accordingly, redundant description thereof may not be repeated, and the differences therebetween may be mainly described hereinafter.

The first sub-pixel area SA1gmay have a triangle shape. In this case, a border of the first sub-pixel area SA1gmay include the first inner side I1.

When the first sub-pixel area SA1ghas the triangle shape, the first area A1gmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the first area A1gmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the first sub-pixel area SA1g.

The second sub-pixel area SA2gmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the second sub-pixel area SA2gmay include a portion of the third inner side I3adjacent to the fourth inner side I4, and a portion of the fourth inner side I4adjacent to the third inner side I3.

When the second sub-pixel area SA2ghas the pentagonal shape, the second area A2gmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the second area A2gmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the second sub-pixel area SA2g.

The third sub-pixel area SA3gmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the third sub-pixel area SA3gmay include a portion of the fifth inner side I5adjacent to the sixth inner side I6, and a portion of the sixth inner side I6adjacent to the fifth inner side I5.

When the third sub-pixel area SA3ghas the pentagonal shape, the third area A3gmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the third area A3gmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the third sub-pixel area SA3g.

The fourth sub-pixel area SA4gmay have a triangle shape. In this case, a border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4gmay include the second inner side I2.

In an embodiment, the border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4gand the border of the first sub-pixel area SA1gmay be line-symmetric with each other with respect to the first reference line RL1described above with reference toFIG.2.

When the fourth sub-pixel area SA4ghas the triangle shape, the fourth area A4gmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the fourth area A4gmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4g.

Each of the first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1g, SA2g, SA3g, and SA4gmay have various suitable areas.

In an embodiment, an area of the first sub-pixel area SA1gmay be the same or substantially the same as an area of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4g.

In an embodiment, an area of the second sub-pixel area SA2gmay be different from an area of the third sub-pixel area SA3g. For example, the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3gmay be larger than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2g. As another example, the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3gmay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2g.

In an embodiment, the area of the first sub-pixel area SA1gmay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2g, and may be smaller than the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3g. In addition, the area of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4gmay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2g, and may be smaller than the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3g.

FIG.11is a plan view illustrating a sub-pixel area according to an eight embodiment.

The unit area UA and the pixel area PXA illustrated inFIG.11may be the same or substantially the same as the unit area UA and the pixel area PXA described above with reference toFIG.1andFIG.2, and thus, redundant description thereof may not be repeated.

Referring toFIG.11, first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1h, SA2h, SA3h, and SA4haccording to the eight embodiment may be the same or substantially the same as the first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1a, SA2a, SA3a, and SA4adescribed above with reference toFIG.3andFIG.4, except for a planar shape thereof. In addition, first to fourth areas A1h, A2h, A3h, and A4haccording to the eight embodiment may be the same or substantially the same as the first to fourth areas A1a, A2a, A3a, and A4adescribed above with reference toFIG.3andFIG.4, except for a planar shape thereof. Accordingly, redundant description thereof may not be repeated, and the differences therebetween may be mainly described hereinafter.

The first sub-pixel area SA1hmay have a triangle shape. In this case, a border of the first sub-pixel area SA1hmay include the first inner side I1, and a portion of the third inner side I3adjacent to the first inner side I1.

When the first sub-pixel area SA1hhas the triangle shape, the first area A1hmay have a quadrangular shape. In this case, a border of the first area A1hmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the first sub-pixel area SA1h.

The second sub-pixel area SA2hmay have a quadrangular shape. In this case, a border of the second sub-pixel area SA2hmay include a portion of the third inner side I3adjacent to the fourth inner side I4, and a portion of the fourth inner side I4adjacent to the third inner side I3.

When the second sub-pixel area SA2hhas the quadrangular shape, the second area A2hmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the second area A2hmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the second sub-pixel area SA2h.

The third sub-pixel area SA3hmay have a quadrangular shape. In this case, a border of the third sub-pixel area SA3hmay include a portion of the fifth inner side I5adjacent to the sixth inner side I6, and a portion of the sixth inner side I6adjacent to the fifth inner side I5.

When the third sub-pixel area SA3hhas the quadrangular shape, the third area A3hmay have a pentagonal shape. In this case, a border of the third area A3hmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the third sub-pixel area SA3h.

The fourth sub-pixel area SA4hmay have a triangle shape. In this case, a border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4hmay include the second inner side I2, and a portion of the sixth inner side I6adjacent to the second inner side I2.

In an embodiment, the border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4hand the border of the first sub-pixel area SA1hmay be point-symmetric with each other with respect to the reference point RP described above with reference toFIG.2.

When the fourth sub-pixel area SA4hhas the triangle shape, the fourth area A4hmay have a quadrangular shape. In this case, a border of the fourth area A4hmay surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4h.

Each of the first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1h, SA2h, SA3h, and SA4hmay have various suitable areas.

In an embodiment, an area of the first sub-pixel area SA1hmay be the same or substantially the same as an area of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4h.

In an embodiment, an area of the second sub-pixel area SA2hmay be different from an area of the third sub-pixel area SA3h. For example, the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3hmay be larger than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2h. As another example, the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3hmay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2h.

In an embodiment, the area of the first sub-pixel area SA1hmay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2h, and may be smaller than the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3h. In addition, the area of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4hmay be smaller than the area of the second sub-pixel area SA2h, and may be smaller than the area of the third sub-pixel area SA3h.

FIG.12throughFIG.19are diagrams illustrating a method of manufacturing the display device ofFIG.1. For convenience of illustration, a portion of the display area DA is illustrated inFIG.12, and redundant description as those of the embodiments described above with reference toFIG.1,FIG.2,FIG.3, andFIG.4may not be repeated.

Referring toFIG.12andFIG.13, after forming the pixel electrodes PXE1, PXE2, PXE3, and PXE4, the pixel defining layer PDL may be formed. The pixel defining layer PDL may define the opening exposing each of the pixel electrodes PXE1, PXE2, PXE3, and PXE4.

The pixel defining layer PDL may include a plurality of unit areas UA, and a pixel area disposed in each of the plurality of unit areas UA. The plurality of unit areas UA may include a first unit area UA1, and a second unit area UA2adjacent to the first unit area UA1in the column direction Dc. The second outer side O2of the first unit area UA1may be in contact with the first outer side O1of the second unit area UA2.

A first pixel area PXA1may be disposed in the first unit area UA1, and a second pixel area PXA2may be disposed in the second unit area UA2.

The opening may include the first pixel opening exposing the first pixel electrode PXE1, the second pixel opening exposing the second pixel electrode PXE2, the third pixel opening exposing the third pixel electrode PXE3, and the fourth pixel opening exposing the fourth pixel electrode PXE4. The first pixel opening may correspond to the first sub-pixel area SA1a, the second pixel opening may correspond to the second sub-pixel area SA2a, the third pixel opening may correspond to the third sub-pixel area SA3a, and the fourth pixel opening may correspond to the fourth sub-pixel area SA4a.

Referring toFIG.14andFIG.15, the first light emitting material EU may be deposited in the first pixel opening and the fourth pixel opening. In this case, the first light emitting material EL1may be concurrently (e.g., simultaneously) deposited in the first pixel opening disposed in the second unit area UA2and the fourth pixel opening disposed in the first unit area UA1.

In more detail, a first mask M1may be disposed on the pixel defining layer PDL. The first mask M1may define a first opening pattern OP1. The first opening may expose the first and fourth sub-pixel areas SA1aand SA4adisposed in each of the plurality of unit areas UA. In this case, the first opening pattern OP1may concurrently (e.g., simultaneously) expose the fourth sub-pixel area SA4adisposed in one of two unit areas UA that are adjacent to each other in the column direction Dc from among the plurality of unit areas UA and the first sub-pixel area SA1adisposed in the other of the two unit areas UA. For example, the first opening pattern OP1may concurrently (e.g., simultaneously) expose the fourth sub-pixel area SA4adisposed in the first unit area UA1and the first sub-pixel area SA1adisposed in the second unit area UA2.

After disposing the mask M1, the first light emitting material EL1may be deposited on a portion exposed by the first opening pattern OP1. In an embodiment, a border of the first opening pattern OP1concurrently (e.g., simultaneously) exposing the fourth sub-pixel area SA4adisposed in the first unit area UA1and the first sub-pixel area SA1adisposed in the second unit area UA2may be the same or substantially the same as an overall border of the fourth area A4adisposed in the first unit area UA1and the first area Ala (e.g., refer toFIG.4) disposed in the second unit area UA2.

Referring toFIG.16andFIG.17, the second light emitting material EL2may be deposited in the second pixel opening.

In more detail, a second mask M2may be disposed on the pixel defining layer PDL. The second mask M2may define a second opening pattern OP2. The second opening pattern OP2may expose the second sub-pixel area SA2adisposed in each of the plurality of unit areas UA.

After disposing the second mask M2, the second light emitting material EL2may be deposited on a portion exposed by the second opening pattern OP2. In an embodiment, a border of the second opening pattern OP2may be the same or substantially the same as the border of the second area A2a(e.g., refer toFIG.4).

Referring toFIG.18andFIG.19, the third light emitting material EL3may be deposited in the third pixel opening.

In more detail, a third mask M3may be disposed on the pixel defining layer PDL. The third mask M3may define a third opening pattern OP3. The third opening pattern OP3may expose the third sub-pixel area SA3adisposed in each of the plurality of unit areas UA.

After disposing the third mask M3, the third light emitting material EL3may be deposited on a portion exposed by the third opening pattern OP3. In an embodiment, a border of the third opening pattern OP3may be the same or substantially the same as the border of the third area A3a(e.g., refer toFIG.4).

Referring toFIG.14throughFIG.19, an embodiment in which the first light emitting material is disposed, and after the first light emitting material E1is disposed, the second light emitting material EL2is disposed, and then the third light emitting material EL3is finally disposed is described. However, the order of the deposition of the first to third light emitting materials EL1, EL2, and EL3is not limited thereto. For example, after depositing the second light emitting material EL2, the third light emitting material EL3may be deposited, and then the first light emitting material EL1may be finally deposited. As another example, after the second light emitting material EL2is deposited, the first light emitting material EL1may be deposited, and then the third light emitting material EL3may be finally deposited.

In an embodiment, an area of the first opening pattern OP1may be greater than or equal to about 80%, and less than or equal to about 120%, of an area of the third opening pattern OP3, and an area of the second opening pattern OP2may be greater than or equal to about 80%, and less than or equal to about 120%, of the area of the third opening pattern OP3. Accordingly, an opening ratio of each of the first to third opening patterns OP1, OP2, and OP3may be sufficiently secured, and a manufacturing yield of the first to third masks M1, M2, and M3may be sufficiently secured.

Referring toFIG.2,FIG.14, andFIG.19, the border of the unit area UA may surround (e.g., around a periphery of) the border of the pixel area PXA, and the border of the unit area UA may be spaced apart from the border of the pixel area PXA. In this case, in the plurality of unit areas UA, the pixel area PXA disposed in one of two adjacent unit areas UA and the pixel area PXA disposed in the other of the two adjacent unit areas UA may be spaced apart from each other. Accordingly, when the first to third light emitting materials EL1, EL2, and EL3are deposited, even if an alignment of the first to third masks M1, M2, and M3is partially misaligned, the first to third light emitting materials EL1, EL2, and EL3may be sufficiently deposited in the first to fourth pixel openings.

FIG.20is a plan view illustrating a display device according to another embodiment.FIG.21is diagram illustrating a unit area and a pixel area included in the display device ofFIG.20.

Referring toFIG.20andFIG.21, a display device may include a display area DA. The display area DA may be an area for displaying an image. InFIG.20, a portion of the display area DA is illustrated for convenience of illustration.

The display area DA may be divided into a plurality of unit areas UA′. The plurality of unit areas UA′ may be defined as a set of minimum units capable of filling the display area DA without blanking or overlapping with each other. Each of the plurality of unit areas UA′ may have the same or substantially the same shape as each other. In more detail, in any one unit area UA′ from among the plurality of unit areas UA′, the unit area UA′ may have a hexagonal shape in which each of all interior angles is less than 180 degrees.

Each of the plurality of unit areas UA′ may have a first border defining a boundary of each of the plurality of unit areas UA′. The first border may be an imaginary line that is not recognized by a user of the display device.

In an embodiment, the first border may be point-symmetric with respect to a reference point RP′ located within the unit area UA′. In this case, the phrase “the reference point RP′ is located within the unit area UA” may have the same or substantially the same meaning as the phrase “the reference point RP′ is surrounded (e.g., around a periphery thereof) by the first border”. In other words, first to third reference lines RL1′, RL2′, and RL3′ that are different from each other may pass through the reference point RP′ thorough all vertices of the first border, and each of the first to third reference lines RL1′, RL2′, and RL3′ may bisect an area of the unit area UA′.

In an embodiment, the first border may have a hexagonal shape including a first outer side O1′, a second outer side O2′, a third outer side O3′, a fourth outer side O4′, a fifth outer side O5′, and a sixth outer side O6′.

A length of the first outer side O1′ may be the same or substantially the same as a length of the second outer side O2′, and the first outer side O1′ may be parallel to or substantially parallel to the second outer side O2′. In addition, the first outer side O1′ may extend or substantially extend in (e.g., may be parallel to or substantially parallel to) the row direction Dr. Accordingly, the second outer side O2′ of one unit area UA′ from among two unit areas UA′ that are adjacent to each other in the column direction Dc from among the plurality of unit areas UA′ may contact the first outer side O1′ of the other unit area UA′ from among the two unit areas UA′.

The third outer side O3′ and the fourth outer side O4′ may connect one end of the first outer side O1′ and one end of the second outer side O2′ to each other. The fifth outer side O5′ and the sixth outer side O6′ may connect the other end of the first outer side O1′ opposite to the one end of the first outer side O1′ and other end of the second outer side O2′ opposite to the one end of the second outer side O2′ to each other.

A pixel area PXA′ may be disposed in each of the plurality of unit areas UA′. The pixel area PXA′ may have a hexagonal shape in which a size of each of all interior angles is less than 180 degrees.

The pixel area PXA′ may have a second border defining a boundary of the pixel area PXA′. The second border may be an imaginary line that is not recognized by a user of the display device. Because the pixel area PXA′ is disposed in each of the plurality of unit areas UA′, the second border may be disposed inside (e.g., within) the first border. In this case, the second border may be spaced apart from the first border.

In an embodiment, the second border may be point-symmetric with respect to the reference point RP′ located within the unit area UA′ (e.g., or located within the pixel area PXA′). In other words, the first to third reference lines RL1′, RL2′, and RL3′ that are different from each other and passing through the reference point RP′ may pass thorough all vertices of the second border, and each of the first to third reference lines RL1′, RL2′, and RL3′ may bisect an area of the pixel area PXA′.

In an embodiment, the second border may have a hexagonal shape including a first inner side I1′ adjacent to the first outer side O1′, a second inner side I2′ adjacent to the second outer side O2′, a third inner side I3′ adjacent to the third outer side O3′, a fourth inner side I4′ adjacent to the fourth outer side O4′, a fifth inner side I5′ adjacent to the fifth outer side O5′, and a sixth inner side I6′ adjacent to the sixth outer side O6′.

The third inner side I3′ and the fourth inner side I4′ may connect one end of the first inner side I1′ and one end of the second inner side I2′ to each other. The fifth inner side I5′ and the sixth inner side I6′ may connect the other end of the first inner side I1′ opposite to the one end of the first inner side I1′ and the other end of the second inner side I2′ opposite to the one end of the second inner side I2′ to each other.

In an embodiment, the first inner side I1′ may be parallel to or substantially parallel to the first outer side O1′, the second inner side I2′ may be parallel to or substantially parallel to the second outer side O2′, the third inner side I3′ may be parallel to or substantially parallel to the third outer side O3′, the fourth inner side I4′ may be parallel to or substantially parallel to the fourth outer side O4′, the fifth inner side I5′ may be parallel to or substantially parallel to the fifth outer side O5′, and the sixth inner side I6′ may be parallel to or substantially parallel to the sixth outer side O6′.

A first sub-pixel area SA1a′, a second sub-pixel area SA2a′, a third sub-pixel area SA3a′, and a fourth sub-pixel area SA4a′ may be disposed in the pixel area PXA′. Each of the first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1a′, SA2a′, SA3a′, and SA4a′ may be a minimum unit for emitting or substantially emitting light.

A border of the first sub-pixel area SA1a′ may include the first inner side I1′. A border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4a′ may include the second inner side I2′. Accordingly, in one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the fourth sub-pixel area SA4a′ disposed in one unit area UA′ from among two unit areas UA′ that are adjacent to each other in the column direction Dc from among the plurality of unit areas UA′ may be adjacent to the first sub-pixel area SA1a′ of the other unit area UA′ from among the two unit areas UA′.

A border of the second sub-pixel area SA2a′ may include a portion of the second border. For example, the second sub-pixel area SA2a′ may include a portion of the third inner side I3′ adjacent to the fourth inner side I4′, and a portion of the fourth inner side I4′ adjacent to the third inner side I3′.

A border of the third sub-pixel area SA3a′ may include another portion of the second border. For example, the third sub-pixel area SA3a′ may include a portion of the fifth inner side I5′ adjacent to the sixth inner side I6′, and a portion of the sixth inner side I6′ adjacent to the fifth inner side I5′.

InFIG.20, the first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1a′, SA2a′, SA3a′, and SA4a′ having a pentagonal shape are illustrated, but the shape of the first to fourth sub-pixel areas SA1a′, SA2a′, SA3a′, and SA4a′ is not limited thereto. For example, as described above with reference toFIG.5throughFIG.11, the border of the first sub-pixel area SA1a′ and the border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4a′ may have a N-polygon shape (where N is 3, 4, 5, or 6). As another example, as described above with reference toFIG.5throughFIG.11, the border of the second sub-pixel area SA2a′ and the border of the third sub-pixel area SA3a′ may have a M-polygon shape (where M is 4 or 5). In this case, in some embodiments, the border of the first sub-pixel area SA1a′ and the border of the fourth sub-pixel area SA4a′ may be point-symmetric with each other with respect to the reference point RP′.

Unit areas UA′ arranged along the column direction Dc from among the plurality of unit areas UA′ may define a plurality of pixel columns. For example, the plurality of pixel columns may include a first pixel column C1′, a second pixel column C2′ adjacent to the first pixel column C1′ in the row direction Dr, and a third pixel column C3′ adjacent to the second pixel column C2′ in the row direction Dr. The second pixel column C2′ may be a pixel column in which the first pixel column C1′ is shifted by a suitable distance (e.g., a predetermined distance) in the column direction Dc, and the third pixel column C3′ may be a pixel column in which the second pixel column C2′ is shifted by a suitable distance (e.g., a predetermined distance) in the column direction Dc.

The plurality of pixel columns may be interlocked with one another, and arranged along the row direction Dr. For example, the first pixel column C1′ and the second pixel column C2′ may be interlocked with each other, the second pixel column C2′ and the third pixel column C3′ may be interlocked with each other, and the third pixel column C3′ and the first pixel column C1′ may be interlocked with each other. In other words, as shown inFIG.20, the first to third pixel columns C1′, C2′, and C3′ may be interlocked with one another, and alternately arranged along the row direction Dr.