DISPLAY PANEL AND SMART CONTACT LENS INCLUDING THE DISPLAY PANEL

A display panel includes: a substrate including a first substrate region, a second substrate region surrounding at least a portion of the first substrate region, and a third substrate region being arranged between the first substrate region and the second substrate region and including a plurality of through portions spaced apart from each other; a display element arranged in the first substrate region, a connection wiring electrically connected to the display element and extending from the first substrate region to the second substrate region, and a pixel circuit arranged in the second substrate region, electrically connected to the connection wiring. An edge of the substrate that defines at least a portion of one of the plurality of through portions extends from the first substrate region to the second substrate region, and an extension direction of the edge changes at least twice in the third substrate region.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is based on and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0023451, filed on Feb. 22, 2021, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

One or more embodiments relate to a display panel and a smart contact lens including the same.

2. Description of the Related Art

Mobile electronic apparatuses are widely used. As mobile electronic apparatuses, electronic apparatuses including head mounted displays (HMDs) that are mounted on a user's head to allow the user to experience augmented reality (AR) have been recently developed in addition to portable electronic apparatuses such as mobile phones.

However, regarding the HMDs, the quality of an image may be influenced by the movement of a user who wears the HMD and a viewing angle may be narrow, and thus, use of the HMD may be insufficient for implementing AR.

Recently, to implement AR, a smart contact lens that is directly attached to user's eyes has been developed. The smart contact lens may include a display panel to display an image to a user.

SUMMARY

One or more embodiments include a display panel with an increased light transmittance and a smart contact lens including the display panel.

According to one or more embodiments, a display panel includes a substrate including a first substrate region, a second substrate region, and a third substrate region, the second substrate region surrounding at least a portion of the first substrate region, and the third substrate region being arranged between the first substrate region and the second substrate region and including a plurality of through portions spaced apart from each other, a display element arranged in the first substrate region, a connection wiring electrically connected to the display element and extending from the first substrate region to the second substrate region, and a pixel circuit arranged in the second substrate region, electrically connected to the connection wiring, and including at least one thin-film transistor and a storage capacitor, wherein an edge of the substrate that defines at least a portion of one of the plurality of through portions extends from the first substrate region to the second substrate region, and an extension direction of the edge changes at least twice in the third substrate region.

The display panel may further include a conductive pattern arranged in the first substrate region and electrically connected to the display element, wherein the conductive pattern may be electrically connected to the connection wiring and a light transmittance of the conductive pattern may be greater than a light transmittance of the connection wiring.

The display panel may further include a data line configured to transfer a data signal, and a scan line configured to transfer a scan signal, wherein the at least one thin-film transistor may include a switching thin-film transistor electrically connected to the data line and the scan line, and a driving thin-film transistor electrically connected to the switching thin-film transistor and the connection wiring.

The connection wiring may be provided in a plurality, and the plurality of connection wirings may each extend from the first substrate region to the second substrate region.

The display element may be provided in a plurality and the plurality of display elements may each include a pixel electrode, an intermediate layer, and an opposite electrode, and the opposite electrode of each of the plurality of display elements may be provided as one body and be electrically connected to one of the plurality of connection wirings.

The connection wiring may extend in a serpentine shape.

The display panel may further include an encapsulation layer covering the display element and including a first inorganic encapsulation layer, an organic encapsulation layer, and a second inorganic encapsulation layer that are sequentially stacked.

The first encapsulation layer and the second encapsulation layer may not overlap the third substrate region.

The display panel may further include an inorganic insulating layer arranged between the substrate and the display element, wherein the inorganic insulating layer may include an opening that overlaps the third substrate region.

The display panel may further include an organic layer covering the opening, wherein the connection wiring may be arranged on the organic layer.

According to one or more embodiments, a smart contact lens includes a first contact lens including an upper surface that includes a first region and a second region surrounding the first region, and a display panel arranged on the upper surface of the first contact lens, wherein the display panel includes a substrate including a first substrate region and a second substrate region, the first substrate region overlapping the first region, and the second substrate region overlapping the second region, a display element arranged in the first substrate region, a connection wiring electrically connected to the display element and extending from the first substrate region to the second substrate region, and a pixel circuit arranged in the second substrate region, electrically connected to the connection wiring, and including at least one thin-film transistor and a storage capacitor, wherein the connection wiring is provided in a plurality, and the plurality of connection wirings each extend from the first substrate region to the second substrate region.

The display panel may further include a conductive pattern arranged in the first substrate region and electrically connected to the display element, the conductive pattern may be electrically connected to the connection wiring, and a light transmittance of the conductive pattern may be greater than a light transmittance of the connection wiring.

The plurality of connection wirings may each extend in a serpentine shape from the first substrate region to the second substrate region.

The display element may be provided in a plurality and the plurality of display elements may each include a pixel electrode, an intermediate layer, and an opposite electrode, and the opposite electrode of each of the plurality of display elements may be provided as one body and be electrically connected to one of the plurality of connection wirings.

The display panel may further include a data line and a scan line, the data line being configured to transfer a data signal, and the scan line being configured to transfer a scan signal, and the at least one thin-film transistor may include a switching thin-film transistor electrically connected to the data line and the scan line, and a driving thin-film transistor electrically connected to the switching thin-film transistor and the connection wiring.

The upper surface of the first contact lens may further include a third region arranged between the first region and the second region, the substrate may further include a third substrate region overlapping the third region, the third substrate region may include a plurality of through portions spaced apart from each other, an edge of the substrate that defines at least a portion of one of the plurality of through portions extends from the first substrate region to the second substrate region, and an extension direction of the edge changes at least twice in the third substrate region.

The upper surface of the first contact lens may further include a third region arranged between the first region and the second region, the substrate may further include a third substrate region overlapping the third region, the display panel may further include an inorganic insulating layer arranged between the substrate and the display element, and the inorganic insulating layer may include an opening that overlaps the third substrate region.

The smart contact lens may further include a radio frequency antenna arranged in the second region, and a battery arranged in the second region.

The smart lens may further include a second contact lens covering the display panel, wherein the second contact lens may include a transmission area and a peripheral area, the transmission area overlapping the first region, and the peripheral area overlapping the second region, and a light transmittance of the second contact lens in the transmission area may be greater than a light transmittance of the second contact lens in the peripheral area.

The first contact lens may include elastomer.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout and a repeated description thereof is omitted.

The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” as used herein are intended to include the plural forms as well unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

It will be understood that the terms “comprise,” “comprising,” “include” and/or “including” as used herein specify the presence of stated features or components but do not preclude the addition of one or more other features or components.

It will be further understood that, when a layer, region, or component is referred to as being “on” another layer, region, or component, it can be directly or indirectly on the other layer, region, or component. That is, for example, intervening layers, regions, or components may be present.

When an embodiment may be implemented differently, a certain process order may be performed differently from the described order. For example, two consecutively described processes may be performed substantially at the same time or performed in an order opposite to the described order.

It will be understood that when a layer, region, or component is referred to as being “connected” to another layer, region, or component, it may be “directly connected” to the other layer, region, or component or may be “indirectly connected” to the other layer, region, or component with other layer, region, or component interposed therebetween. For example, it will be understood that when a layer, region, or component is referred to as being “electrically connected” to another layer, region, or component, it may be “directly electrically connected” to the other layer, region, or component or may be “indirectly electrically connected” to other layer, region, or component with other layer, region, or component interposed therebetween.

FIG. 1is a plan view of a smart contact lens1according to an embodiment.FIG. 2is a cross-sectional view of the smart contact lens1according to an embodiment, taken along line A-A′ ofFIG. 1.

Referring toFIGS. 1 and 2, the smart contact lens1may implement augmented reality. In an embodiment, the smart contact lens1may directly contact a user's eye. The smart contact lens1may include a first contact lens10, a display panel20, a second contact lens30, a radio frequency (RF) antenna40, a battery50, and a controller60.

The first contact lens10may include a lower surface10LS and an upper surface10US. In an embodiment, the lower surface10LS of the first contact lens10may be a surface directly contacting a user's eye. The upper surface10US of the first contact lens10may be a surface opposite to the lower surface10LS of the first contact lens10. In an embodiment, the upper surface10US of the first contact lens10may include a first region R1, a second region R2, and a third region R3interposed between the first region R1and the second region R2.

The first region R1may overlap the center of the upper surface10US of the first contact lens10. In an embodiment, when a user wears the smart contact lens1, the first region R1may be a region overlapping a user's pupil. The second region R2may surround at least a portion of the first region R1. In an embodiment, the second region R2may completely surround the first region R1. The third region R3may be arranged between the first region R1and the second region R2. The third region R3may surround at least a portion of the first region R1. In an embodiment, the third region R3may completely surround the first region R1. The second region R2may surround the third region R3. The second region R2may completely surround the third region R3. In an embodiment, when a user wears the smart contact lens1, the second region R2and the third region R3may overlap at least a portion of a user's iris. In an embodiment, a light transmittance of the smart contact lens1in the first region R1may be greater than a light transmittance of the smart contact lens1in the second region R2.

The first contact lens10may include elastomer. As an example, the first contact lens10may include a polymer material representing rubber elasticity. In an embodiment, the first contact lens10may include a synthetic resin. As an example, the first contact lens10may include at least one of polyolefine, polyvinyl chloride, elastomeric silicone, elastomeric polyurethane, and elastomeric polyisoprene. Accordingly, the first contact lens10may be stretchable and/or contractable.

The display panel20may display an image. The display panel20may include a plurality of display elements and the plurality of display elements emit light to display an image. In an embodiment, light may pass through the display panel20. Accordingly, when a user wears the smart contact lens1, the smart contact lens1may implement augmented reality.

The display panel20may be arranged on the upper surface10US of the first contact lens10. In an embodiment, the display panel20may overlap the first region R1, the second region R2, and the third region R3. The center of the display panel20may overlap the first region R1. In an embodiment, the first contact lens10may include a groove such that the display panel20is disposed in the groove.

A light transmittance of the display panel20in the first region R1may be greater than a light transmittance of the display panel20in the second region R2. In an embodiment, the display panel20may include a display element and a pixel circuit electrically connected to the display element. The pixel circuit may drive the display element. In the case where both the pixel circuit and the display element are arranged in the first region R1, a light transmittance of the display panel20may decrease. In an embodiment, the display element may be arranged in the first region R1, and the pixel circuit may be arranged in the second area R2. In this case, the display panel20may include connection wiring electrically connecting the pixel circuit that overlaps the third region R3to the display element disposed in the first region R1. Accordingly, a light transmittance of the display panel20that overlaps the first region R1may increase.

The second contact lens30may cover the display panel20. In an embodiment, the second contact lens30may cover the display panel20, the RF antenna40, the battery50, and the controller60.

In an embodiment, a light transmittance of the second contact lens30that overlaps the first region R1may be greater than a light transmittance of the second contact lens30that overlaps the second region R2. Accordingly, elements such as a portion of the display panel20, the RF antenna40, the battery50, and the controller60arranged inside the smart contact lens1may be prevented or reduced from being viewed from the outside, and thus, an aesthetic sense of the smart contact lens1may be increased.

The second contact lens30may include elastomer. As an example, the second contact lens30may include a polymer material representing rubber elasticity. In an embodiment, the second contact lens30may include a synthetic resin. As an example, the second contact lens30may include at least one of polyolefine, polyvinyl chloride, elastomeric silicone, elastomeric polyurethane, and elastomeric polyisoprene. Accordingly, the second contact lens30may be stretchable and/or contractable.

The RF antenna40may exchange information with an external apparatus. In an embodiment, the RF antenna40may receive wireless power from an external apparatus. The external apparatus may be an apparatus in which a program for operating the smart contact lens1is installed. The external apparatus may be a portable apparatus or a stand-alone apparatus. The portable apparatus may be a mobile communication apparatus. The RF antenna40may be arranged in the second region R2of the first contact lens10.

The battery50may supply power to the display panel20. The battery50may supply power to an element other than the display panel20, for example, the controller60. In an embodiment, the battery50may be wirelessly charged. The battery50may be arranged in the second region R2of the first contact lens10. In an embodiment, the display panel20and/or the controller60may receive power from the RF antenna40through a wireless power transfer method.

The controller60may control an operation of the display panel20. The controller60may control a process in which information received from the outside is transferred to the display panel20. The controller60may process the information into a form that is processible by the display panel20while transferring the information received from the outside to the display panel20. The controller60may include a circuit configured to control operations of the display panel20, the RF antenna40, and the battery50.

In an embodiment, the smart contact lens1may further include a motion sensor configured to sense the movement of a user's eyeball or the flickering of an eye. In an embodiment, the smart contact lens1may further include a camera. The camera may operate in cooperation with the motion sensor. As an example, the movement of a user's eyeball may be sensed by the motion sensor and an object or a background on which the eyeball is focused may be photographed.

FIG. 3is an exploded perspective view of the smart contact lens1according to an embodiment.FIG. 4is a plan view of the smart contact lens1according to an embodiment.FIG. 4shows the smart contact lens1in which a second contact lens is omitted.

Referring toFIGS. 3 and 4, the smart contact lens1may include the first contact lens10, the display panel20, the second contact lens30, the RF antenna40, the battery50, and the controller60.

The first contact lens10may include the upper surface10US on which the display panel20is arranged. The upper surface10US of the first contact lens10may include the first region R1, the second region R2, and the third region R3. The first region R1may overlap the center of the upper surface10US of the first contact lens10. The second region R2may surround the first region R1. The third region R3may be arranged between the first region R1and the second region R2.

The display panel20may be arranged on the upper surface10US of the first contact lens10. In an embodiment, the display panel20may overlap the first region R1, the second region R2, and the third region R3. The display panel20may include a display area DA, a circuit area CA, and a wiring area WA.

The display area DA may be an area on which an image is displayed. A display element DPE may be arranged in the display area DA. In an embodiment, the display element DPE may be an organic light-emitting diode including an organic emission layer. Alternatively, the display element DPE may be a light-emitting diode LED. The size of the light-emitting diode LED may be a micro scale or a nano scale. As an example, the light-emitting diode may be a micro light-emitting diode. Alternatively, the light-emitting diode may be a nanorod light-emitting diode. The nanorod light-emitting diode may include gallium nitride (GaN). In an embodiment, a color-converting layer may be arranged on the nanorod light-emitting diode. The color-converting layer may include quantum dots. Alternatively, the display element DPE may be a quantum-dot light-emitting diode including quantum-dot emission layer. Alternatively, the display element DPE may be an inorganic light-emitting diode including an inorganic semiconductor.

A pixel circuit may be arranged in the circuit area CA, the pixel circuit being configured to control the display element DPE. In an embodiment, the pixel circuit may include at least one thin-film transistor and a storage capacitor. The display element DPE may be electrically connected to the pixel circuit. The display element DPE may be electrically connected to the pixel circuit through the connection wiring CL.

The circuit area CA may be arranged in the second area R2. The circuit area CA may surround at least a portion of the display area DA. In an embodiment, the circuit area CA may entirely surround the display area DA. In another embodiment, the circuit area CA may surround only a portion of the display area DA.

The circuit area CA may not overlap the display area DA. In the case where the circuit area CA overlaps the display area DA, the display element DPE may be arranged on the pixel circuit. In this case, a light transmittance of the display area DA may be reduced. In an embodiment, because the circuit area CA does not overlap the display area DA, a light transmittance of the display area DA may increase. Accordingly, a light transmittance of the smart contact lens1in the first region R1may increase.

The wiring area WA may be arranged between the display area DA and the circuit area CA. The wiring area WA may surround at least a portion of the display area DA. In an embodiment, the wiring area WA may entirely surround the display area DA. In another embodiment, the wiring area WA may surround only a portion of the display area DA.

The connection wiring CL may be arranged in the wiring area WA. The connection wiring CL may electrically connect the display element DPE to the pixel circuit. The connection wiring CL may be configured to transfer a signal and/or power to the display element DPE. The connection wiring CL may be arranged between the display area DA and the circuit area CA. That is, the connection wiring CL may be arranged in the third region R3of the first contact lens10. The connection wiring CL may extend from the display area DA to the circuit area CA.

The connection wiring CL may be provided in a plurality. The plurality of connection wirings CL may each extend from the display area DA to the circuit area CA. In an embodiment, the plurality of connection wirings CL may extend in a radial shape. The plurality of connection wirings CL may each extend to the circuit area CA arranged outside the display area DA. Accordingly, an embodiment may efficiently utilize an outer area outside the display area DA.

The RF antenna40, the battery50, and the controller60may be arranged in the second region R2. In an embodiment, the RF antenna40may be electrically connected to the battery50. In an embodiment, the RF antenna40may be electrically connected to the controller60. In an embodiment, the controller60may be electrically connected to at least one of the display panel20, the RF antenna40, and the battery50. The controller60may control the operations of the display panel20, the RF antenna40, and the battery50.

FIG. 5is a cross-sectional view of the smart contact lens1ofFIG. 4, taken along line B-B′. It is shown inFIG. 5that the upper surface10US of the first contact lens10extends in one direction.

Referring toFIG. 5, the smart contact lens1may include the first contact lens10, the display panel20, and the second contact lens30. The first contact lens10may include the upper surface10US including the first region R1, the second region R2, and the third region R3.

The display panel20may be arranged on the upper surface10US of the first contact lens10. The display panel20may include a substrate100, an insulating layer IL, the display element DPE, the connection wiring CL, a pixel circuit PC, and an encapsulation layer ENL.

The substrate100may be arranged on the upper surface10US of the first contact lens10. In an embodiment, the substrate100may be arranged along the shape of the upper surface10US of the first contact lens10. In an embodiment, the substrate100may include a first substrate region100R1, a second substrate region100R2, and a third substrate region100R3. The first substrate region100R1may overlap the first region R1. The second substrate region100R2may overlap the second region R2. The third substrate region100R3may overlap the third region R3.

The substrate100may include glass or a polymer resin including polyethersulfone, polyarylate, polyetherimide, polyethylene naphthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyphenylene sulfide, polyimide, polycarbonate, cellulose tri acetate, and cellulose acetate propionate. The substrate100including the polymer resin may be flexible, rollable, and bendable. The substrate100may have a multi-layered structure including a base layer and a barrier layer including the polymer resin.

The insulating layer IL may be arranged on the substrate100. The insulating layer IL may include an inorganic material and/or an organic material. In an embodiment, the insulating layer IL arranged on the first substrate region100R1may include an inorganic material and/or an organic material. The insulating layer IL arranged on the second substrate region100R2may include an inorganic material and/or an organic material. The insulating layer IL arranged on the third substrate region100R3may include an organic material. In an embodiment, the insulating layer IL arranged on the third substrate region100R3may include an inorganic material and/or an organic material.

An elongation rate of the display panel20in the third region R3may be greater than an elongation rate of the display panel20in the first region R1. In the present specification, an elongation rate may be defined as a degree of elongation when constant tensile force is applied to the display panel20. When constant tensile force is applied to the display panel20, a degree of the display panel20elongated along the third region R3may be greater than a degree of the display panel20elongated along the first region R1. In this case, the display panel20in the third region R3is bent along the shape of the upper surface10US of the first contact lens10. A damage to the display panel20may be prevented or reduced due to the high degree of elongation of the third region R3.

The display element DPE may be arranged in the first substrate region100R1. Accordingly, the first region R1of the first contact lens10and the first substrate region100R1of the substrate100may overlap the display area DA of the display panel20.

The connection wiring CL may be electrically connected to the display element DPE. The connection wiring CL may be configured to transfer a signal or power to the respective display element DPE. The connection wiring CL may extend from the first substrate region100R1to the second substrate region100R2. The connection wiring CL may overlap the third substrate region100R3. The third region R3of the first contact lens10and the third substrate region100R3of the substrate100may overlap the wiring area WA of the display panel20.

The pixel circuit PC may be electrically connected to the connection wiring CL. The pixel circuit PC may be configured to control the display element DPE through the connection wiring CL. The pixel circuit PC may be arranged in the second substrate region100R2. In an embodiment, the pixel circuit PC may not overlap the first substrate region100R1. Accordingly, a light transmittance of the first substrate region100R1may be improved. The pixel circuit PC may include at least one thin-film transistor and a storage capacitor Cst.

At least one thin-film transistor TFT may be arranged in the second substrate region R2. The insulating layer IL may be arranged over and below an element of the at least one thin-film transistor TFT. In an embodiment, the at least one thin-film transistor TFT may be electrically connected to the connection wiring CL.

The storage capacitor Cst may be arranged in the second substrate region100R2. The storage capacitor Cst may include a bottom electrode CE1and a top electrode CE2. The bottom electrode CE1may overlap the top electrode CE2. A portion of the insulating layer IL may be arranged between the bottom electrode CE1and the top electrode CE2. In an embodiment, the at least one thin-film transistor TFT may not overlap the storage capacitor Cst. In another embodiment, the at least one thin-film transistor TFT may overlap the storage capacitor Cst.

The encapsulation layer ENL may cover the display element DPE. In an embodiment, the encapsulation layer ENL may include at least one inorganic encapsulation layer and at least one organic encapsulation layer. The at least one inorganic encapsulation layer may include at least one inorganic material from among aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), zinc oxide (ZnO), silicon oxide (SiO2), silicon nitride (SiNx), and silicon oxynitride (SiON). The at least one organic encapsulation layer may include a polymer-based material. The polymer-based material may include an acryl-based resin, an epoxy-based resin, polyimide, and polyethylene. In an embodiment, the at least one organic encapsulation layer may include acrylate.

In an embodiment, the encapsulation layer ENL may include a first inorganic encapsulation layer310, an organic encapsulation layer320, and a second inorganic encapsulation layer330that are sequentially stacked. In an embodiment, the first inorganic encapsulation layer310may contact the second inorganic encapsulation layer330. The first inorganic encapsulation layer310and the second inorganic encapsulation layer330may prevent or reduce the exposure of the organic encapsulation layer320and/or the display element DPE to foreign substance such as moisture. In an embodiment, the first inorganic encapsulation layer310and the second inorganic encapsulation layer330may be disconnected in the first substrate region100R1. That is, the first inorganic encapsulation layer310and the second inorganic encapsulation layer330may not overlap the third substrate region100R3. Accordingly, the display panel20in the wiring area WA may be configured to reduce stress due to bending and/or elongation.

In another embodiment, the encapsulation layer ENL may have a structure in which the substrate100is coupled to an upper substrate, which is a transparent member, through a sealing member, and thus, an inner space between the substrate100and the upper substrate is sealed. In this case, a moisture absorbent or a filler may be arranged in the inner space. The sealing member may be sealant. In another embodiment, the sealing member may include a material hardened by a laser. As an example, the sealing member may be frit. In detail, the sealing member may include a urethane-based resin, an epoxy-based resin, an acryl-based resin, which are organic sealants, or silicone, etc. which are inorganic sealants. As a urethane-based resin, urethane acrylate, etc. may be used for example. As an acryl-based resin, butyl acrylate, ethylhexyl acrylate, etc. may be used for example. The sealing member may include a material hardened by heat.

In an embodiment, the display panel20may further include an anti-reflection layer (not shown) arranged on the encapsulation layer ENL. The anti-reflection layer may include a polarizing film. The polarizing film may include a retardation film such as a linear polarizing plate and λ/4 (quarter-wave plate). The retardation film may be arranged on the encapsulation layer ENL, and the linear polarizing plate may be arranged on the retardation film.

In an embodiment, the anti-reflection layer may include a light-blocking layer and/or a filter layer including color filters. The color filters may be selected by considering colors emitted from display elements DPE. As an example, the filter layer may include red, green, or blue color filter.

The second contact lens30may cover the display panel20. The second contact lens30may include a transmission area TA and a peripheral area PA. The transmission area TA of the second contact lens30may overlap the first region R1of the first contact lens10, and the peripheral area PA of the second contact lens30may overlap the second region R2of the first contact lens10. In an embodiment, the peripheral area PA of the second contact lens30may overlap the third region R3of the first contact lens10.

In an embodiment, a light transmittance of the second contact lens30in the transmission area TA may be higher than a light transmittance of the second contact lens30in the peripheral area PA. In an embodiment, the second contact lens30in the peripheral area PA may at least partially absorb external light or inner reflected light. As an example, the second contact lens30may include black pigment in the peripheral area PA. Accordingly, the smart contact lens1may have a relatively high light transmittance in the first region R1. The smart contact lens1may have a relatively low light transmittance in the second region R2and/or the third region R3. In this case, elements arranged inside the smart contact lens1, for example, the pixel circuit PC and/or the connection wiring CL may not be viewed from the outside, and thus, aesthetic sense of the smart contact lens1may be improved.

FIG. 6is an equivalent circuit diagram of a pixel circuit PC electrically connected to a display element DPE according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 6, the pixel circuit PC may include a driving thin-film transistor T1, a switching thin-film transistor T2, and a storage capacitor Cst.

The switching thin-film transistor T2may be electrically connected to a scan line SL and a data line DL and configured to transfer a data signal or a data voltage to the driving thin-film transistor T1in response to a scan signal or a switching voltage input from the scan line SL, the data signal being input from the data line DL. The storage capacitor Cst may be electrically connected between the switching thin-film transistor T2and a driving voltage line PL and configured to store a voltage corresponding to a difference between a voltage transferred from the switching thin-film transistor T2and a first power voltage ELVDD supplied from the driving voltage line PL.

The driving thin-film transistor T1may be electrically connected to the driving voltage line PL and the storage capacitor Cst and configured to control a driving current from the driving voltage line PL to the display element DPE according to the voltage stored in the storage capacitor Cst. The display element DPE may emit light having a preset brightness based on the driving current. An opposite electrode of the display element DPE may receive a second power voltage ELVSS.

Though it is shown inFIG. 6that the pixel circuit PC includes two thin-film transistors and one storage capacitor, the pixel circuit PC may include three, four, five or more thin-film transistors.

FIG. 7is a layout view of a sub-pixel arrangement structure in the display area DA of a display panel according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 7, a plurality of sub-pixels P may be arranged in the display area DA. In the present specification a sub-pixel is a minimum unit that implements an image and denotes an emission area. In the case where an organic light-emitting diode is employed as a display element, the emission area may be defined by an opening of a pixel-defining layer. This is described below.

In an embodiment, the plurality of sub-pixels P may include a red sub-pixel Pr, a green sub-pixel Pg, and a blue sub-pixel Pb. A red sub-pixel Pr, a green sub-pixel Pg, and a blue sub-pixel Pb may respectively implement red, green, and blue colors. In another embodiment, the plurality of sub-pixels P may include a red sub-pixel Pr, a green sub-pixel Pg, a blue sub-pixel Pb, and a white sub-pixel. A red sub-pixel Pr, a green sub-pixel Pg, a blue sub-pixel Pb, and a white sub-pixel may respectively implement red, green, blue, and white colors.

In an embodiment, the plurality of sub-pixels in the display area DA may be arranged in a pentile structure. A plurality of red sub-pixels Pr and a plurality of blue sub-pixels Pb are alternately arranged in a first row1N, a plurality of green sub-pixels Pg are arranged in a second row2N adjacent to the first row1N to be spaced apart from each other with a predetermined interval, a plurality of blue sub-pixels Pb and a plurality of red sub-pixels Pr are alternately arranged in a third row3N adjacent to the second row2N, and a plurality of green sub-pixels Pg are arranged in a fourth row4N adjacent to the third row3N to be spaced apart from each other with a predetermined interval. Such sub-pixel arrangement is repeated to an N-th row. In this case, a blue sub-pixel Pb and a red sub-pixel Pr may be greater than a green sub-pixel Pg.

A plurality of red sub-pixels Pr and a plurality of blue sub-pixels Pb in the first row1N and a plurality of green sub-pixels Pg in the second row2N are alternately arranged. Accordingly, red sub-pixels Pr and blue sub-pixels Pb are alternately arranged in a first column1M, a plurality of green sub-pixels Pg are arranged in a second column2M adjacent to the first column1M to be spaced apart from each other with a predetermined interval, blue sub-pixels Pb and red sub-pixels Pr are alternately arranged in a third column3M adjacent to the second column2M, and a plurality of green sub-pixels Pg are arranged in a fourth column4M adjacent to the third column3M to be spaced apart from each other with a predetermined interval. Such sub-pixel arrangement is repeated to an M-th column.

Such sub-pixel arrangement structure may be expressed, in which: red sub-pixels Pr are respectively arranged at first and third vertexes among the vertexes of a virtual quadrangle VS with a green sub-pixel Pg centered at the center of the quadrangle, and blue sub-pixels Pb are respectively arranged at second and fourth vertexes, which are the rest of the vertexes. In this case, the virtual quadrangle VS may be variously modified into a rectangle, a rhombus, a square, etc.

In an embodiment, a green sub-pixel Pg may have long sides and short sides. In an embodiment, a long side of a green sub-pixel Pg may face one side of a blue sub-pixel Pb. A short side of a green sub-pixel Pg may face one side of a red sub-pixel Pr.

This sub-pixel arrangement structure is referred to as a pentile matrix structure or a pentile structure. By applying rendering, in which a color of a pixel is represented by sharing the colors of its adjacent sub-pixels, a high resolution may be obtained via a small number of sub-pixels.

Though it is shown inFIG. 7that a plurality of sub-pixels P are arranged in a pentile matrix structure, the embodiment is not limited thereto. As an example, a plurality of sub-pixels P may be arranged in various configurations such as a stripe structure, a mosaic configuration structure, and a delta configuration structure.

FIGS. 8A and 8Bare enlarged plan views of a region C of the display panel20ofFIG. 4according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIGS. 8A and 8B, the display panel20may be arranged on the upper surface10US of the first contact lens. The upper surface10US of the first contact lens10may include the first region R1, the second region R2, and the third region R3. In an embodiment, the second region R2may surround at least a portion of the first region R1. The third region R3may be arranged between the first region R1and the second region R2.

The display panel20may include the substrate100, the display element DPE, the connection wiring CL, and the pixel circuit PC. The substrate100may be arranged on the upper surface10US of the first contact lens. In an embodiment, the substrate100may include the first substrate region100R1, the second substrate region100R2, and the third substrate region100R3. The first substrate region100R1may overlap the first region R1. The second substrate region100R2may surround at least a portion of the first substrate region100R1. In an embodiment, the second substrate region100R2may entirely surround the first substrate region100R1. In another embodiment, the second substrate region100R2may surround a portion of the first substrate region100R1. The second substrate region100R2may overlap the second region R2. The third substrate region100R3may be arranged between the first substrate region100R1and the second substrate region100R2. The third substrate region100R3may overlap the third region R3.

In an embodiment, the first substrate region100R1of the substrate100may overlap the display area DA of the display panel20. The second substrate region100R2of the substrate100may overlap the circuit area CA of the display panel20. The third substrate region100R3of the substrate100may overlap the wiring area WA of the display panel20.

Referring toFIG. 8A, the third substrate region100R3may include a plurality of through portions TP spaced apart from each other. The plurality of through portions TP may be portions in which at least a portion of the substrate100is removed. In an embodiment, elements of the display panel20may not be arranged in the plurality of through portions TP. Accordingly, even when the display panel20is bent and/or stretched, the size of stress applied to the display panel20in the wiring area WA may be reduced.

The plurality of through portions TP may be defined as the edges of the substrate100. As an example, one of the plurality of through portions TP may be defined as an edge100E of the substrate100. The edge100E of the substrate100may extend from the first substrate region100R1to the second substrate region100R2. A plurality of edges of the substrate100that are adjacent to each other may face each other with the through portion TP disposed therebetween.

In an embodiment, an extension direction of the edge100E of the substrate100may change at least twice in the third substrate region100R3. That is, the edge100E of the substrate100may extend in the first direction, extend in a second direction crossing the first direction, and extend in a third direction crossing the second direction. As an example, the edge100E of the substrate100may extend to have a serpentine shape. As another example, the edge100E of the substrate100may extend in a sinusoidal shape. As another example, the edge100E of the substrate100may extend to have a zigzag shape. The edge100E of the substrate100may have at least one bent portion. Accordingly, while the display panel20in the wiring area WA is bent and/or stretched, the amount of stress applied to the display panel20may be reduced. In an embodiment, the edge100E of the substrate100may extend in one direction.

Referring toFIG. 8B, the first substrate region100R1, the substrate region100R2, and the third substrate region100R3may be provided as one body. That is, the substrate100in the third substrate region100R3may not include the through portion TP.

Referring toFIGS. 8A and 8B, the display element DPE may be arranged in the first substrate region100R1. In an embodiment, the display element DPE may be provided in a plurality in the first substrate region100R1. In an embodiment, the plurality of display elements DPE may respectively implement a red sub-pixel Pr, a green sub-pixel Pg, and a blue sub-pixel Pb.

The connection wiring CL may be electrically connected to the display element DPE. The connection wiring CL may be configured to transfer a signal or power to the display element DPE. The connection wiring CL may extend from the first substrate region100R1to the second substrate region100R2. The connection wiring CL may overlap the third substrate region100R3.

The extension direction of the connection wiring CL may change at least twice in the third substrate region100R3. That is, the connection wiring CL may extend in a first direction, extend in a second direction crossing the first direction, and extend in a third direction crossing the second direction. As an example, the connection wiring CL may extend in a serpentine shape. As another example, the connection wiring CL may extend in a sinusoidal shape. As another example, the edge of the connection wiring CL may have a zigzag shape. The edge of the connection wiring CL may have at least one bent portion. In an embodiment, as shown inFIG. 8A, in the case where the third substrate region100R3includes the through portion TP, the connection wiring CL may extend along an extending direction of the edge100E of the substrate100. Accordingly, while the display panel20is bent and/or stretched in the wiring area WA, the amount of stress applied to the display panel20may be reduced.

The connection wiring CL may be provided in a plurality. The plurality of connection wirings CL may extend from the first substrate region100R1to the second substrate region100R2. In an embodiment, the plurality of connection wirings CL may extend to have a radial shape.

The pixel circuit PC may be electrically connected to the connection wiring CL. The pixel circuit PC may control the display element DPE by signals supplied through the connection wiring CL. The pixel circuit PC may be arranged in the second substrate region100R2. In an embodiment, the pixel circuit PC may not overlap the first substrate region100R1. Accordingly, a light transmittance of the first substrate region100R1may be improved.

The pixel circuit PC may be provided in a plurality. In an embodiment, the plurality of pixel circuits PC may be respectively connected to a plurality of display elements DPE, respectively. As an example, one of the plurality of pixel circuits PC may be configured to control a red sub-pixel Pr. Another of the plurality of pixel circuits PC may be configured to control a green sub-pixel Pg. The other of the plurality of pixel circuits PC may be configured to control a blue sub-pixel Pb.

In an embodiment, the display element DPE may include a pixel electrode, an emission layer, and an opposite electrode213. In an embodiment, the opposite electrode213may be electrically connected to one of the plurality of connection wirings CL. In an embodiment, the opposite electrode213may receive the second power voltage ELVSS (seeFIG. 6). The second power voltage ELVSS may be a voltage entirely supplied to the plurality of display elements DPE. In this case, the opposite electrode213may be entirely arranged in the display area DA. That is, the opposite electrode213of the plurality of display elements DPE may be provided as one body. In this case, the number of connection wirings CL may be reduced.

FIG. 9is a cross-sectional view of the display panel20ofFIG. 8A, taken along line D-D′.FIG. 10is a cross-sectional view of the display panel20ofFIG. 8A, taken along line E-E′. It is shown inFIGS. 9 and 10that the substrate100extends in one direction. InFIGS. 9 and 10, because the same reference numerals as those ofFIG. 5mean the same members, repeated descriptions thereof are omitted.

Referring toFIGS. 9 and 10, the display panel20may include the substrate100, the insulating layer IL, an organic light-emitting diode OLED as a display element, the connection wiring CL, a conductive pattern CDP, and the pixel circuit PC. The substrate100may include the first substrate region100R1, the second substrate region100R2, and the third substrate region100R3.

The insulating layer IL may be arranged on the substrate100. The insulating layer IL may include an inorganic insulating layer IIL, an organic layer115, and an organic insulating layer OIL. In an embodiment, the inorganic insulating layer IIL may be arranged on the substrate100. The inorganic insulating layer IIL may prevent or reduce moisture transmission of moisture and/or foreign substance from the substrate100to the organic light-emitting diode OLED as a display element.

The inorganic insulating layer IIL may include an opening IILOP overlapping the third substrate region100R3. In other words, the inorganic insulating layer IIL may include an opening IILOP exposing the third substrate region100R3. In other words, the inorganic insulating layer IIL may be arranged in at least one of the first substrate region100R1and/or the second substrate region100R2and may not be arranged in the third substrate region100R3. The inorganic insulating layer IIL may include an end portion at the edge of the first substrate region100R1. The inorganic insulating layer IIL may include an end portion at the edge of the second substrate region100R2. Accordingly, while the display panel20is bent and/or stretched in the third substrate region100R3, the amount of stress applied to the display panel20may be reduced. In an embodiment, the inorganic insulating layer IIL may include a buffer layer111, a first gate insulating layer112, a second gate insulating layer113, and an interlayer insulating layer114.

The buffer layer111may be arranged on the substrate100. The buffer layer111may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide (SiO2), silicon nitride (SiNx), and/or silicon oxynitride (SiON) and have a single layer or a multi-layer including the above inorganic insulating materials. In an embodiment, the buffer layer111may be omitted.

The first gate insulating layer112may be arranged on the buffer layer111. The first gate insulating layer112may include an inorganic insulating material including silicon oxide (SiO2), silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxynitride (SiON), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), hafnium oxide (HfO2), and/or zinc oxide (ZnO).

The second gate insulating layer113may be arranged on the first gate insulating layer112. The second gate insulating layer113may include an inorganic insulating material including silicon oxide (SiO2), silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxynitride (SiON), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), hafnium oxide (HfO2), and/or zinc oxide (ZnO).

The interlayer insulating layer114may be arranged on the second gate insulating layer113. The interlayer insulating layer114may include silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxynitride (SiON), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), titanium oxide (TiO2), tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), hafnium oxide (HfO2), or zinc oxide (ZnO). The interlayer insulating layer114may include a single layer or a multi-layer including the inorganic insulating materials.

The organic layer115may overlap the opening IILOP of the inorganic insulating layer IIL. The organic layer115may completely cover the opening IILOP. That is, the organic layer115may cover the end portion of the inorganic insulating layer IIL arranged on the edge of the first substrate region100R1. The connection wiring CL extends from the first substrate region100R1to the third substrate region100R3, the organic layer115may reduce a height difference thereof or simultaneously absorb stress that may be applied to the connection wiring CL.

The organic layer115may include an organic insulating material such as polyimide, polyamide, an acrylic resin, benzocyclobutene, hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO), and a phenolic resin. The organic layer115may include a single-layered structure or a multi-layered structure including the organic insulating materials. In an embodiment, the organic layer115may be omitted.

The organic insulating layer OIL may be arranged on the inorganic insulating layer IIL. In an embodiment, the organic insulating layer OIL may be arranged in the first substrate region100R1. In an embodiment, the organic insulating layer OIL may be arranged also in the second substrate region100R2and/or the third substrate region100R3. In an embodiment, the organic insulating layer OIL may include a first organic insulating layer116and a second organic insulating layer117.

The first organic insulating layer116may be arranged on the inorganic insulating layer IIL. In an embodiment, the first organic insulating layer116may cover a portion of the connection wiring CL. The first organic insulating layer116may include an organic insulating material including a general-purpose polymer such as polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) or polystyrene (PS), polymer derivatives having a phenol-based group, an acryl-based polymer, an imide-based polymer, an aryl ether-based polymer, an amide-based polymer, a fluorine-based polymer, a p-xylene-based polymer, a vinyl alcohol-based polymer, or a blend thereof.

The second organic insulating layer117may be arranged on the first organic insulating layer116. The second organic insulating layer117may include an organic insulating material including a general-purpose polymer such as polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) or polystyrene (PS), polymer derivatives having a phenol-based group, an acryl-based polymer, an imide-based polymer, an aryl ether-based polymer, an amide-based polymer, a fluorine-based polymer, a p-xylene-based polymer, a vinyl alcohol-based polymer, or a blend thereof. In an embodiment, one of the first organic insulating layer116and the second organic insulating layer117may be omitted.

The display element may be arranged on the organic insulating layer OIL. In an embodiment, the display element may be an organic light-emitting diode OLED. The organic light-emitting diode OLED as a display element may be arranged on the organic insulating layer OIL. The organic light-emitting diode OLED may be arranged in the first substrate region100R1. In an embodiment, the organic light-emitting diode OLED may be exclusively arranged in the first substrate region100R1. The organic light-emitting diode OLED may not be arranged in the second substrate region100R2and the third substrate region100R3. The organic light-emitting diode OLED may include a pixel electrode211, an intermediate layer212, and the opposite electrode213.

The pixel electrode211may be arranged on the second organic insulating layer117. The pixel electrode211may include a conductive oxide such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), indium oxide (In2O3), indium gallium oxide (IGO), or aluminum zinc oxide (AZO). In another embodiment, the pixel electrode211may include a reflective layer including silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chrome (Cr), or a compound thereof. In another embodiment, the pixel electrode211may further include a layer on/under the reflective layer, the layer including ITO, IZO, ZnO, or In2O3.

A pixel-defining layer118may be arranged on the pixel electrode211, the pixel-defining layer118including an opening1180P that exposes the central portion of the pixel electrode211. The pixel-defining layer118may include an organic insulating material and/or an inorganic insulating material. The opening1180P may define an emission area of light emitted from the organic light-emitting diode OLED. As an example, the width of the opening1180P may correspond to the width of the emission area. In addition, the width of the opening1180P may correspond to the width of a sub-pixel.

The intermediate layer212may include a low-molecular weight material or a polymer material. In the case where the intermediate layer212includes a low molecular weight material, the intermediate layer212may have a structure in which a hole injection layer (HIL), a hole transport layer (HTL), an emission layer (EML), an electron transport layer (ETL), an electron injection layer (EIL), etc. are stacked in a single or composite configuration. The intermediate layer212may include various organic materials such as copper phthalocyanine (CuPc), N, N′-Di (naphthalene-1-yl)-N, N′-diphenyl-benzidine (NPB), and tris-8-hydroxyquinoline aluminum (Alq3). These layers may be formed by vacuum deposition.

In the case where the intermediate layer212includes a polymer material, the intermediate layer212may generally have a structure including an HTL and an EML. In this case, the HTL may include poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), and the EML may include a polymer material such as a polyphenylene vinylene (PPV)-based material and a polyfluorene-based material. The intermediate layer212may be formed through screen printing or inkjet printing, laser induced thermal imaging (LITI), etc.

The intermediate layer212is not limited thereto and may have various structures. In addition, the intermediate layer212may include a layer that is one body over the plurality of pixel electrodes211or include a layer patterned to correspond to each of the plurality of pixel electrodes211.

The opposite electrode213may include a conductive material having a low work function. As an example, the opposite electrode213may include a (semi) transparent layer including silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chrome (Cr), lithium (Li), calcium (Ca), or an alloy thereof. Alternatively, the opposite electrode213may further include a layer on the (semi) transparent layer, the layer including ITO, IZO, ZnO, or In2O3. The intermediate layer212and the opposite electrode213may be formed by thermal deposition.

A capping layer (not shown) may be further arranged on the opposite electrode213, the capping layer being configured to protect the opposite electrode213. The capping layer may include lithium fluoride (LiF), an inorganic material, and/or an organic material. In addition, in an embodiment, the encapsulation layer ENL (seeFIG. 5) may be arranged on the opposite electrode213.

The connection wiring CL may be electrically connected to the organic light-emitting diode OLED. The connection wiring CL may be configured to transfer a signal or power to the organic light-emitting diode OLED. The connection wiring CL may extend from the first substrate region100R1to the second substrate region100R2. The connection wiring CL may overlap the third substrate region100R3. In an embodiment, the connection wiring CL may be arranged on the organic layer115. In an embodiment, the organic insulating layer OIL may be further arranged on the connection wiring CL. In this case, an upper connection wiring (not shown) may be further arranged between the first organic insulating layer116and the second organic insulating layer117.

The connection wiring CL may include a material having excellent conductivity. The connection wiring CL may include a conductive material including molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), and titanium (Ti) and have a single layer or a multi-layer including the above materials. In an embodiment, the connection wiring CL may have a multi-layered structure of Ti/Al/Ti.

The conductive pattern CDP may be arranged in the first substrate region100R1. The conductive pattern CDP may electrically connect the organic light-emitting diode OLED as a display element to the connection wiring CL. That is, the conductive pattern CDP may be electrically connected to the organic light-emitting diode OLED. In an embodiment, the conductive pattern CDP may be electrically connected to the pixel electrode211of the organic light-emitting diode OLED. The conductive pattern CDP may be electrically connected to the connection wiring CL.

In an embodiment, the conductive pattern CDP may be arranged between the first organic insulating layer116and the second organic insulating layer117. In another embodiment, the conductive pattern CDP may be arranged between the inorganic insulating layer IIL and the organic insulating layer OIL. In another embodiment, the conductive pattern CDP may be arranged on the organic insulating layer OIL.

The conductive pattern CDP may have a higher light transmittance than a light transmittance of the connection wiring CL. In an embodiment, the conductive pattern CDP may include a transparent conductive material. As an example, the conductive pattern CDP may include a transparent conductive oxide (TCO). The conductive pattern CDP may include a conductive oxide such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), indium oxide (In2O3), indium gallium oxide (IGO), or aluminum zinc oxide (AZO).

In an embodiment, the conductive pattern CDP having a relatively high transmittance may be arranged in the first substrate region100R1. Accordingly, a light transmittance of the display panel20in the first substrate region100R1may be maintained relatively high and the organic light-emitting diode OLED may receive a signal or power without deteriorating the transmittance. In addition, the connection wiring CL including a low-resistance material may be arranged in the third substrate region100R3that does not need to have a relatively high light transmittance. Accordingly, the connection wiring CL may transfer a signal or power to the organic light-emitting diode OLED while maintaining a low resistance.

The pixel circuit PC may be electrically connected to the connection wiring CL. The pixel circuit PC may be configured to control the organic light-emitting diode OLED through signals supplied through the connection wiring CL. The pixel circuit PC may be arranged in the second substrate region100R2. In an embodiment, the pixel circuit PC may not overlap the first substrate region100R1in a plan view. Accordingly, a light transmittance of the first substrate region100R1may be improved. The pixel circuit PC may include the driving thin-film transistor T1, the switching thin-film transistor T2, and the storage capacitor Cst.

The driving thin-film transistor T1may include a first semiconductor layer Act1, a first gate electrode GE1, a first source electrode SE1, and a first drain electrode DE1. In an embodiment, the first source electrode SE1may be electrically connected to the driving voltage line PL. In an embodiment, the driving thin-film transistor T1may be electrically connected to the switching thin-film transistor T2.

The switching thin-film transistor T2may include a second semiconductor layer Act2, a second gate electrode GE2, a second source electrode SE2, and a second drain electrode DE2. In an embodiment, the switching thin-film transistor T2may be electrically connected to the scan line SL and the data line DL, the scan line being configured to transfer a scan signal, and the data line DL being configured to transfer a data signal. In an embodiment, the second gate electrode GE2may be electrically connected to the scan line SL. The second source electrode SE2may be electrically connected to the data line DL.

The storage capacitor Cst may include the bottom electrode CE1and the top electrode CE2. Though not shown, one of the bottom electrode CE1and the top electrode CE2may be electrically connected to the second drain electrode DE2. Though not shown, another of the bottom electrode CE1and the top electrode CE2may be electrically connected to the driving voltage line PL.

The first semiconductor layer Act1and the second semiconductor layer Act2may be arranged on the buffer layer111. At least one of the first semiconductor layer Act1and the second semiconductor layer Act2may include polycrystalline silicon. In addition, at least one of the first semiconductor layer Act1and the second semiconductor layer Act2may include amorphous silicon, an oxide semiconductor, or an organic semiconductor. Each of the first semiconductor layer Act1and the second semiconductor layer Act2may include a channel region, a drain region, and a source region, the drain region and the source region being respectively arranged on two opposite sides of the channel region.

The first gate electrode GE1may overlap the channel region of the first semiconductor layer Act1. The second gate electrode GE2may overlap the channel region of the second semiconductor layer Act2. At least one of the first gate electrode GE1and the second gate electrode GE2may include a conductive material including molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), and/or titanium (Ti) and have a single layer or a multi-layer including the above materials.

The top electrode CE2may be arranged between the second gate insulating layer113and the interlayer insulating layer114. In an embodiment, the top electrode CE2may overlap the first gate electrode GE1. The first gate electrode GE1and the top electrode CE2overlapping each other with the second gate insulating layer113disposed therebetween may constitute the storage capacitor Cst. That is, the first gate electrode GE1may serve as the bottom electrode CE1of the storage capacitor Cst.

As described above, the storage capacitor Cst may overlap the driving thin-film transistor T1. In an embodiment, the storage capacitor Cst may not overlap the driving thin-film transistor T1.

The top electrode CE2may include at least one of aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chrome (Cr), calcium (Ca), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tungsten (W), and/or copper (Cu) and include a single layer or a multi-layer including the above materials.

The first source electrode SE1, the first drain electrode DE1, the second source electrode SE2, and the second drain electrode DE2may each be arranged on the interlayer insulating layer114. At least one of the first source electrode SE1, the first drain electrode DE1, the second source electrode SE2, and the second drain electrode DE2may include a material having an excellent conductivity. At least one of the first source electrode SE1, the first drain electrode DE1, the second source electrode SE2, and the second drain electrode DE2may include a conductive material including molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), and/or titanium (Ti) and have a single layer or a multi-layer including the above materials. In an embodiment, at least one of the first source electrode SE1, the first drain electrode DE1, the second source electrode SE2, and the second drain electrode DE2may have a multi-layered structure of Ti/Al/Ti.

In an embodiment, at least one thin-film transistor may be electrically connected to the connection wiring CL. As an example, the driving thin-film transistor T1may be electrically connected to the connection wiring CL. Accordingly, the pixel circuit PC may be electrically connected to the organic light-emitting diode OLED and configured to control the organic light-emitting diode OLED.

FIG. 11is a cross-sectional view of the display panel20ofFIG. 8A, taken along line F-F. It is shown inFIG. 11that the substrate100extends in one direction. InFIG. 11, because the same reference numerals as those ofFIG. 9mean the same members, repeated descriptions thereof are omitted.

Referring toFIG. 11, the display panel20may include the substrate100, the insulating layer IL, the organic light-emitting diode OLED as a display element, the connection wiring CL, the conductive pattern CDP, and a pixel electrode pattern211P. The substrate100may include the first substrate region100R1, the second substrate region100R2, and the third substrate region100R3.

The organic light-emitting diode OLED as a display element may be arranged on the organic insulating layer OIL. The organic light-emitting diode OLED may be arranged in the first substrate region100R1. In an embodiment, the organic light-emitting diode OLED may be provided in a plurality in the first substrate region100R1. As an example, a first organic light-emitting diode OLED1and a second organic light-emitting diode OLED2may be arranged in the first substrate region100R1.

The organic light-emitting diode OLED may include the pixel electrode211, the intermediate layer212, and the opposite electrode213. In an embodiment, the opposite electrode213of the plurality of organic light-emitting diodes OLED may be provided as one body.

The pixel electrode pattern211P may be spaced apart from the pixel electrode211. In an embodiment, the pixel electrode pattern211P may be electrically connected to the conductive pattern CDP. As an example, the pixel electrode pattern211P may be electrically connected to the conductive pattern CDP through a contact hole provided in the second organic insulating layer117. The pixel electrode pattern211P may include the same material as that of the pixel electrode211.

The pixel electrode pattern211P may be electrically connected to the opposite electrode213. In an embodiment, the pixel electrode pattern211P may be exposed through a contact hole118CNT provided in the pixel-defining layer118and electrically connected to the opposite electrode213.

The opposite electrode213may be electrically connected to the connection wiring CL. In an embodiment, the opposite electrode213may be electrically connected to the connection wiring CL through the pixel electrode pattern211P and the conductive pattern CDP. In the case where the opposite electrode213is electrically connected to the connection wiring CL through the pixel electrode pattern211P, the opposite electrode213and the connection wiring CL may maintain a low resistance.

In an embodiment, the opposite electrode213of the plurality of organic light-emitting diodes OLED may be provided as one body and electrically connected to the connection wiring CL. In this case, the number of connection wirings CL may be reduced.

As described above, the display panel may include the display element, the pixel circuit, and the connection wiring, the display element being arranged in the first substrate region, the pixel circuit being arranged in the second substrate region, and the connection wiring connecting the display element to the pixel circuit. Accordingly, because the pixel circuit is spaced apart from the first substrate region, a light transmittance of the display panel in the first substrate region may be increased, and a smart contact lens including the display panel may implement augmented reality.