DISPLAY APPARATUS

A display apparatus is disclosed that includes a first substrate including a component region and a main display region surrounding at least a portion of the component region, a second substrate disposed on the first substrate and including a component region and a main display region surrounding at least a portion of the component region, a first-1 electrode disposed on one surface of the first substrate, and a second-1 electrode disposed on one surface of the second substrate, wherein each of the first substrate and the second substrate includes an electrochromic material.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

BACKGROUND

One or more embodiments relate to a display apparatus.

2. Description of the Related Art

Display apparatuses visually display data. Display apparatuses may provide an image by using light-emitting diodes. As the applications and structures of display apparatuses have diversified, various designs for embedding a component such as a camera in a display apparatus have been attempted.

SUMMARY

In order to improve light transmittance in a component region of a display apparatus where components are arranged, attempts have been made to apply a transparent material on a substrate or to use a colored material and to drill a hole overlapping the component region in the substrate. In this case, there are problems of process risks and structural disadvantages. One or more embodiments include a display apparatus with improved light transmittance in a component region. However, the embodiments are only examples, and the scope of the disclosure is not limited thereto.

An embodiment of a display apparatus includes a first substrate including a component region and a main display region surrounding at least a portion of the component region, a second substrate disposed on the first substrate and including a component region and a main display region surrounding at least a portion of the component region, a first-1 electrode disposed on one surface of the first substrate, and a second-1 electrode disposed on one surface of the second substrate, wherein each of the first substrate and the second substrate includes an electrochromic material.

In a plan view, at least one of the first-1 electrode and the second-1 electrode may surround at least a portion of the component region.

At least a portion of the first-1 electrode and at least a portion of the second-1 electrode may overlap each other.

The display apparatus may further include a first-2 electrode disposed on a surface opposite to the one surface of the first substrate, on which the first-1 electrode is disposed.

The display apparatus may further include a second-2 electrode disposed on a surface opposite to the one surface of the second substrate, on which the second-1 electrode is disposed.

Each of the first substrate and the second substrate may include a peripheral region surrounding the main display region, and a portion of the first-1 electrode and a portion of the second-1 electrode may each be arranged in the peripheral region to bypass the main display region.

The second substrate may include an opening arranged in the peripheral region and penetrating the second substrate.

The first-1 electrode and the second-1 electrode may be connected to each other in a portion of the peripheral region.

Transmittance of each of the first substrate and the second substrate may increase when a voltage is applied thereto.

The display apparatus may further include a barrier layer arranged between the first substrate and the second substrate.

An embodiment of a display apparatus includes a substrate including a first substrate, a second substrate, a component region, and a main display region surrounding at least a portion of the component region, a first electrode disposed on one surface of the first substrate, and a second electrode disposed on one surface of the second substrate, wherein transparency of at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate varies according to a voltage applied to the first electrode or the second electrode.

The first electrode may be disposed on a lower surface of the first substrate.

The first electrode or the second electrode may be arranged between the first substrate and the second substrate.

The second electrode may be arranged between the second substrate and an inorganic layer on the substrate.

The first electrode may be inserted into the first substrate, and the second electrode may be inserted into the second substrate.

One surface of the first electrode may be coplanar with the one surface of the first substrate, or one surface of the second electrode may be coplanar with the one surface of the second substrate.

At least a portion of the first electrode may overlap at least a portion of the second electrode.

At least a portion of at least one of the first electrode and the second electrode may overlap the component region.

The display apparatus may further include a barrier layer arranged between the first substrate and the second substrate, and at least one of the first electrode and the second electrode may be arranged in the barrier layer.

The display apparatus may further include a connection line arranged in a peripheral region arranged outside the main display region to bypass the main display region and connected with the first electrode or the second electrode.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As used herein, the word “or” means logical “or” so that, unless the context indicates otherwise, the expression “A, B, or C” means “A and B and C,” “A and B but not C,” “A and C but not B,” “B and C but not A,” “A but not B and not C,” “B but not A and not C,” and “C but not A and not B.” Throughout the disclosure, the expression “at least one of a, b or c” indicates only a, only b, only c, both a and b, both a and c, both b and c, all of a, b, and c, or variations thereof.

Various modifications may be applied to the present embodiments, and particular embodiments will be illustrated in the drawings and described in the detailed description section. The effect and features of the present embodiments, and a method to achieve the same, will be clearer referring to the detailed descriptions below with the drawings. However, the present embodiments may be implemented in various forms, not by being limited to the embodiments presented below.

Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, and in the description with reference to the drawings, the same or corresponding elements are indicated by the same reference numerals and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted.

In the following embodiment, the expression of singularity in the present specification includes the expression of plurality unless clearly specified otherwise in context.

In the following embodiment, it will be further understood that the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” and “including” used herein specify the presence of stated features or elements, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features or elements.

In the following embodiment, it will be understood that when a layer, region, or element is referred to as being “formed on” another layer, region, or element, it can be directly or indirectly formed on the other layer, region, or element. That is, for example, intervening layers, regions, or elements may be present.

Sizes of elements in the drawings may be exaggerated for convenience of explanation. In other words, since sizes and thicknesses of elements in the drawings are arbitrarily illustrated for convenience of explanation, the following embodiments are not limited thereto.

In the following embodiment, it will be understood that when a layer, region, or element is connected to another layer, region, or element, the layers, regions or elements may be directly connected, or/and may also be indirectly connected via another layer, region, or element therebetween. For example, in the present specification, when a layer, region, or element is electrically connected to another layer, region, or element, the layers, regions, or elements may not only be directly electrically connected, but may also be indirectly electrically connected via another layer, region, or element therebetween.

FIG.1is a schematic perspective view of a display apparatus according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.1, a display apparatus1includes a display region DA and a peripheral region DPA around the display region DA. The display region DA may include a component region CA and a main display region MDA surrounding at least a portion of the component region CA. In other words, each of the component region CA and the main display region MDA may display an image individually or together. The peripheral region DPA may be a kind of non-display region in which display elements are not arranged. The display region DA may be entirely surrounded by the peripheral region DPA.

FIG.1shows that one component region CA is arranged in the main display region MDA. In another embodiment, the display apparatus1may have two or more component regions CA, and a plurality of component regions CA may have different shapes and sizes. When viewed in a direction substantially perpendicular to an upper surface of the display apparatus1, the component region CA may have various shapes such as a circle, an ellipse, a polygon such as a quadrangle, a star shape, or a diamond shape.FIG.1shows that, when viewed in a direction substantially perpendicular to the upper surface of the display apparatus1, the component region CA is arranged at an upper center of the main display region MDA (in a y direction) having a substantially quadrangular shape, but the component region CA may be arranged at one side, for example, at an upper right or upper left side, of the main display region MDA having a quadrangular shape.

The display apparatus1may provide an image by using a plurality of main sub-pixels Pm arranged in the main display region MDA and a plurality of auxiliary sub-pixels Pa arranged in the component region CA.

As described below with reference toFIG.2, in the component region CA, a component20which is an electronic clement may be disposed under a substrate100to correspond to the component region CA. The component20may be a camera which uses infrared rays or visible rays, and may include an image capturing device. Alternatively, the component20may be a solar cell, a flash, an illuminance sensor, a proximity sensor, or an iris sensor. Alternatively, the component20may have a function of receiving sound. In order to reduce the limitation of the function of the component20, the component region CA may include a transmission region TA through which light or/and sound output from the component20to the outside or traveling from the outside toward the component20may pass. In the case of the display apparatus according to an embodiment, when light is transmitted through the component region CA, the light transmittance may be about 10% or more, for example, 40% or more, 25% or more, 50% or more, 85% or more, or 90% or more.

The plurality of auxiliary sub-pixels Pa may be arranged in the component region CA. The plurality of auxiliary sub-pixels Pa may emit light to provide a certain image. An image displayed in the component region CA is an auxiliary image and may have a lower resolution than that of an image displayed in the main display region MDA. In other words, the component region CA includes the transmission region TA through which light or/and sound may be transmitted, and when a sub-pixel is not disposed on the transmission region TA, the number of the auxiliary sub-pixels Pa which may be arranged per unit area may be smaller than the number of the main sub-pixels Pm arranged per unit area in the main display region MDA.

FIG.2is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a display apparatus according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.2, the display apparatus1may include a display panel10including display elements, and the component20corresponding to the component region CA.

The display panel10may include the substrate100, a display element layer200disposed on the substrate100, and a thin-film encapsulation layer300as a scaling member for sealing the display clement layer200.

The substrate100may have a multilayer structure including a layer including a polymer resin or an inorganic layer. For example, the substrate100may include a first substrate1100, a second substrate2100disposed on the first substrate1100, a first barrier layer1102arranged between the first substrate1100and the second substrate2100, and a second barrier layer2102disposed on the second substrate2100.

Each of the first and second barrier layers1102and2102may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), or silicon oxynitride (SiON).

Each of the first and second substrates1100and2100may include a polymer resin, for example, polyimide.

In some embodiments, each of the first and second substrates1100and2100may include an electrochromic material that, when exposed to an electric field, undergoes a change. For example, each of the first and second substrates1100and2100may include electrochromic polyimide that, when exposed to an electric field, increases in transmittance.

In this case, other physical properties of the first and second substrates1100and2100may be maintained substantially the same as a case where each of the first and second substrates1100and2100includes a material which does not have electrochromic properties. For example, the transmittance of each of the first and second substrates1100and2100before application of the electric field may be about 60% to about 65%. The thermal expansion coefficient of each of the first and second substrates1100and2100may be about 3 ppm/°° C. to about 6 ppm/° C., which may remain the same even after the application of the electric field. The temperature at which a decrease in mass during thermogravimetric analysis of the first and second substrates1100and2100is observed may be about 530° C. to about 580° C., which may remain the same even after the application of the electric field. The modulus of each of the first and second substrates1100and2100may be about 9 Gpa to about 12 Gpa, which may remain the same even after the application of the electric field.

After the application of the electric field, electrochromism-related physical properties of the first and second substrates1100and2100may change. For example, before the application of the electric field, the transmittance of each of the first and second substrates1100and2100may be about 60% to about 65%, whereas, after the application of the electric field, the transmittance of each of the first and second substrates1100and2100may be about 80% or more. In this case, a driving voltage of each of the first and second substrates1100and2100may be about 0.5 V to about 5 V to generate an electrochromic phenomenon. The time for which electrochromism is maintained may be about 0.1 seconds to about 1 second.

By including an electrochromic material in each of the first and second substrates1100and2100, the transmittance of a partial region (for example, the component region CA) may be selectively changed by applying a voltage to a local region. At the same time, stability required as a substrate may be ensured, and the structure of the substrate may not be changed.

The display apparatus1may include a first-1 electrode1101aand a second-1 electrode2101aas members for applying a voltage to local regions of the first and second substrates1100and2100. In an embodiment, the first-1 electrode1101amay be disposed on the first substrate1100, and the second-1 electrode2101amay be disposed on the second substrate2100. At least some portions of the first-1 and second-1 electrodes1101aand2101amay be respectively disposed on the first and second substrates1100and2100to overlap the component region CA.

The display element layer200may include a circuit layer including a thin-film transistor TFT, an organic light-emitting diode OLED as a display element, and an insulating layer IL arranged therebetween.

The thin-film transistor TFT and a main organic light-emitting diode OLEDm connected with the thin-film transistor TFT may be arranged to implement a main sub-pixel Pm in the main display region MDA of the display panel10. An auxiliary organic light-emitting diode OLEDa may be arranged in the component region CA to implement an auxiliary sub-pixel Pa. A region of the component region CA, in which the auxiliary sub-pixel Pa is arranged, may be referred to as an auxiliary display region.

The transmission region TA in which the display element is not arranged may be arranged in the component region CA. The transmission region TA may be a region through which light/a signal emitted from the component20arranged to correspond to the component region CA or light/a signal incident on the component region CA is transmitted. The auxiliary display region and the transmission region TA may be alternately arranged in the component region CA.

The thin-film encapsulation layer300may include at least one inorganic encapsulation layer and at least one organic encapsulation layer. For example, the thin-film encapsulation layer300may include a first inorganic encapsulation layer310, a second inorganic encapsulation layer330, and an organic encapsulation layer320arranged therebetween. Each of the first and second inorganic encapsulation layers310and330may include at least one inorganic insulating material selected from among aluminum oxide (AlOx), titanium oxide (TiOx), tantalum oxide (TaOx), hafnium oxide (HfOx), zinc oxide (ZnOx), silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), and silicon oxynitride (SiON). The organic encapsulation layer320may include at least one organic insulating material selected from among polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, polycarbonate, polyimide, polyethylene sulfonate, polyoxymethylene, polyarylate, and hexamethyldisiloxane.

The area of the component region CA may be greater than the area where the component20is arranged. In addition, a plurality of components20may be arranged in the component region CA. The plurality of components20may have different functions. For example, one of the plurality of components20may be a camera, and the other may be an infrared sensor.

Although not shown inFIG.2, components such as an input sensing member for sensing a touch input, a reflection preventing member including a polarizer and a retarder or a color filter and a black matrix, and a transparent window may be further disposed on the display panel10.

In the present embodiment, the thin-film encapsulation layer300is used as an encapsulation member for sealing the display element layer200, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, a scaling substrate bonded to the substrate100by a sealant or a frit may be used as a member for sealing the display clement layer200.

FIG.3is a schematic plan view of a display apparatus according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.3, the display apparatus I may include the display region DA and the peripheral region DPA surrounding the display region DA. The display region DA may include the component region CA and the main display region MDA surrounding at least a portion of the component region CA.

The display apparatus1may include an electrode101extending from the component region CA to the peripheral region DPA. The electrode101may include first-1, first-2, second-1, and second-2 electrodes described below with reference toFIGS.4and9.

The display apparatus1may include a terminal portion40arranged on one side of the peripheral region DPA. The terminal portion40may be connected to a circuit board.

The electrode101may extend from the component region CA and may be partially arranged in the peripheral region DPA. For example, the electrode101may be arranged in the peripheral region DPA by extending from the component region CA and bypassing the display region DA. In an embodiment, the electrode101may extend from the component region CA in a +y direction, may be bent at an upper end of the peripheral region DPA in a ty direction and extend along the peripheral region DPA, and then may be bent at a lower end thereof in the ty direction and connected to the terminal portion40. In this case, a portion of the electrode101may be arranged in a portion of the main display region MDA arranged between the component region CA and the peripheral region DPA.

FIG.3shows that the electrode101is arranged in a portion of the peripheral region DPA arranged approximately in a +x direction of the display region DA, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the electrode101may be arranged in a portion of the peripheral region DPA arranged approximately in a −x direction of the display region DA.

FIG.4is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a display apparatus according to an embodiment.FIG.4is a cross-sectional view of one of various examples of the embodiment shown inFIG.3taken along line I-I′.

Referring toFIG.4, the display apparatus I may include the main display region MDA and the display region DA including the component region CA. The main sub-pixel Pm may be arranged in the main display region MDA, and first and second auxiliary sub-pixels Pa1and Pa2may be arranged in the component region CA.

Although not indicated inFIG.4, a region of the component region CA, in which the first and second auxiliary sub-pixels Pa1and Pa2are not arranged, may be the transmission region TA (FIG.2).

A sub-pixel circuit including first and second thin-film transistors TFT1and TFT2and the main organic light-emitting diode OLEDm as a main display element connected with the sub-pixel circuit may be arranged in the main display region MDA. First and second auxiliary organic light-emitting diodes OLEDa1and OLEDa2may be arranged as auxiliary display elements in the component region CA.

In the present embodiment, an organic light-emitting diode is employed as a display element, but in another embodiment, an inorganic light-emitting device, a quantum dot light-emitting device, or the like may be employed as a display clement.

The second substrate2100may be disposed on the first substrate1100. The first barrier layer1102may be arranged between the first and second substrates1100and2100. The second barrier layer2102may be disposed on the second substrate2100. The first and second barrier layers1102and2102may prevent penetration of external air into the sub-pixel circuit and the organic light-emitting diode.

FIG.4illustrates two substrates and two barrier layers, but the disclosure is not limited thereto, and the number of substrates and the number of barrier layers may vary.

The first-1 electrode1101aand the second-1 electrode2101amay be disposed on one surface of each of the first substrate1100and the second substrate2100, respectively. For example, the first-1 electrode1101amay be disposed on the first substrate1100, and the second-1 electrode2101amay be disposed on the second substrate2100.

FIG.4illustrates that the first-1 and second-1 electrodes1101aand2101aare disposed on an upper surface of each of the first substrate1100and the second substrate2100, respectively, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. When the first-1 and second-1 electrodes1101aand2101aare arranged to correspond to the first and second substrates1100and2100, respectively, there is no limitation on their positions. In an embodiment, the first-1 electrode1101amay be disposed on the upper surface of the first substrate1100, and the second-1 electrode2101amay be disposed on a lower surface of the second substrate2100(or between the second substrate2100and the first barrier layer1102). In another embodiment, the first-1 electrode1101amay be inserted into the first substrate1100, and the second-1 electrode2101amay be inserted into the second substrate2100.

At least a portion of at least one of the first-1 and second-1 electrodes1101aand2101amay overlap the component region CA.

The first-1 and second-1 electrodes1101aand2101amay overlap at least a portion of the component region CA and overlap a portion of the main display region MDA and may extend to the peripheral region DPA. In an embodiment, a portion of each of the first-1 and second-1 electrodes1101aand2101amay be arranged in the component region CA, another portion thereof may be arranged in the main display region MDA arranged between the component region CA and the peripheral region DPA, and another portion thereof may be arranged in the peripheral region DPA.

FIG.4illustrates that the first-1 and second-1 electrodes1101aand2101aare arranged to overlap the entire component region CA, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the first-1 electrode1101amay be arranged to overlap the entire component region CA, and the second-1 electrode2101amay be arranged to overlap a portion of the component region CA.

The first-1 and second-1 electrodes1101aand2101amay not overlap the main organic light-emitting diode OLEDm.

The first-1 and second-1 electrodes1101aand2101amay overlap each other. In an embodiment, the first-1 and second-1 electrodes1101aand2101amay have a same shape on a plane and may completely overlap each other. This will be described with reference toFIGS.5A and5B. The disclosure is not limited thereto, but the first-1 and second-1 electrodes1101aand2101amay partially overlap each other. However, in the present specification, for convenience of description, an embodiment of a case where the first-1 and second-1 electrodes1101aand2101acompletely overlap each other is shown and described.

A lower metal layer BML may be arranged in the second barrier layer2102. The lower metal layer BML may be arranged to correspond to a lower portion of the first thin-film transistor TFT1. The lower metal layer BML may block external light from reaching the main sub-pixel Pm including the first thin-film transistor TFT1. For example, the lower metal layer BML may prevent light, which is introduced from lower portions of the first and second substrates1100and2100, from reaching the main sub-pixel Pm. In some embodiments, a constant voltage or a signal may be applied to the lower metal layer BML to prevent damage to the sub-pixel circuit due to electrostatic discharge.

The lower metal layer BML may include aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), lithium (Li), calcium (Ca), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tungsten (W), or copper (Cu). The lower metal layer BML may be a single layer or multilayer of the above-described material.

A buffer layer103may be disposed on the second substrate2100. The buffer layer103may be disposed on the first and second substrates1100and2100to reduce or prevent penetration of foreign substances, moisture, or external air from the lower portions of the first and second substrates1100and2100, and may provide a flat surface on the first and second substrates1100and2100. The buffer layer103may include an inorganic material such as an oxide or a nitride, an organic material, or an organic/inorganic composite, and may include a single-layered or multilayer structure of an inorganic material and an organic material. In some embodiments, the buffer layer103may have a single-layered or multilayer structure including at least one of silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxynitride (SiON), aluminum oxide (AlOx), aluminum nitride (AlNx), titanium oxide (TiOx), or titanium nitride (TiNx).

The first and second thin-film transistors TFT1and TFT2may be disposed above the buffer layer103. The first thin-film transistor TFT1may include a first activation layer A1, first-1 and first-2 gate electrodes G1-1and G1-2, a first source electrode S1, and a first drain electrode D1. The second thin-film transistor TFT2may include a second activation layer A2, second-1 and second-2 gate electrodes G2-1and G2-2, a second source electrode S2, and a second drain electrode D2. The first thin-film transistor TFT1may be connected with the main organic light-emitting diode OLEDm to drive the main organic light-emitting diode OLEDm.

In some embodiments, the first thin-film transistor TFT1may be a driving transistor of the main sub-pixel Pm, and the second thin-film transistor TFT2may be a switching transistor.

The first activation layer A1may be disposed on the buffer layer103and may include polysilicon. In another embodiment, the first activation layer A1may include amorphous silicon. The first activation layer A1may include a channel region, a source region doped with impurities, and a drain region doped with impurities.

The first activation layer A1may overlap the lower metal layer BML with the buffer layer103therebetween. In an embodiment, the width of the first activation layer A1may be less than the width of the lower metal layer BML, and thus, when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the first activation layer A1, the first activation layer A1may entirely overlap the lower metal layer BML.

A first gate insulating layer1104may be arranged to cover the first activation layer A1. The first gate insulating layer1104may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxynitride (SiON), aluminum oxide (AlOx), titanium oxide (TiOx), tantalum oxide (TaOx), hafnium oxide (HfOx), or zinc oxide (ZnOx). The first gate insulating layer1104may have a single-layered or multilayer structure including the above-described inorganic insulating material.

The first-1 gate electrode G1-1may be disposed on the first gate insulating layer1104to overlap the first activation layer A1. The first-1 gate electrode G1-1may include aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), calcium (Ca), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tungsten (W), or copper (Cu), and may have a single-layered or multilayer structure of the above-described material.

A second gate insulating layer2104may be arranged to cover the first-1 gate electrode G1-1. The second gate insulating layer2104may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxynitride (SiON), aluminum oxide (AlOx), titanium oxide (TiOx), tantalum oxide (TaOx), hafnium oxide (HfOx), or zinc oxide (ZnOx). The second gate insulating layer2104may have a single-layered or multilayer structure including the above-described inorganic insulating material.

The first-2 gate electrode G1-2may be disposed on the second gate insulating layer2104to overlap the first-1 gate electrode G1-1. The first-2 gate electrode G1-2may include aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), calcium (Ca), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tungsten (W), or copper (Cu), and may have a single-layered or multilayer structure of the above-described material.

In some embodiments, the first-1 gate electrode G1-1and the first-2 gate electrode G1-2, which overlap each other with the second gate insulating layer2104therebetween, may form a storage capacitor. For example, the first-1 gate electrode G1-1may be integrally formed with a lower electrode of the storage capacitor, and the first-2 gate electrode G1-2may be integrally formed with an upper electrode of the storage capacitor. In another embodiment, a lower electrode and upper electrode of the storage capacitor may be formed separately from the first-1 and first-2 gate electrodes G1-1and G1-2.

The second-1 gate electrode G2-1may be disposed on the second gate insulating layer2104and may be arranged apart from the first-2 gate electrode G1-2. The second-1 gate electrode G2-1may include aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), calcium (Ca), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tungsten (W), or copper (Cu), and may have a single-layered or multilayer structure of the above-described material.

A first interlayer insulating layer1105may be arranged to cover the first-2 gate electrode G1-2and the second-1 gate electrode G2-1. The first interlayer insulating layer1105may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxynitride (SiON), aluminum oxide (AlOx), titanium oxide (TiOx), tantalum oxide (TaOx), hafnium oxide (HfOx), or zinc oxide (ZnOx). The first interlayer insulating layer1105may have a single-layered or multilayer structure including the above-described inorganic insulating material.

The second activation layer A2may be disposed on the first interlayer insulating layer1105and may be arranged to overlap the second-1 gate electrode G2-1. The second activation layer A2may include an oxide of at least one material selected from the group including indium (In), gallium (Ga), tin (Sn), zirconium (Zr), vanadium (V), hafnium (Hf), cadmium (Cd), germanium (Ge), chromium (Cr), titanium (Ti), and zinc (Zn). The second activation layer A2may include a channel region, a source region doped with impurities, and a drain region doped with impurities.

A third gate insulating layer3104may be arranged to cover the second activation layer A2. The third gate insulating layer3104may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxynitride (SiON), aluminum oxide (AlOx), titanium oxide (TiOx), tantalum oxide (TaOx), hafnium oxide (HfOx), or zinc oxide (ZnOx). The third gate insulating layer3104may have a single-layered or multilayer structure including the above-described inorganic insulating material.

The second-2 gate electrode G2-2may be disposed on the third gate insulating layer3104to overlap the second-1 gate electrode G2-1and the second activation layer A2. The second-2 gate electrode G2-2may include aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), calcium (Ca), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tungsten (W), or copper (Cu), and may have a single-layered or multilayer structure of the above-described material.

A second interlayer insulating layer2105may be arranged to cover the second-2 gate electrode G2-2. The second interlayer insulating layer2105may include an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxynitride (SiON), aluminum oxide (AlOx), titanium oxide (TiOx), tantalum oxide (TaOx), hafnium oxide (HfOx), or zinc oxide (ZnOx). The second interlayer insulating layer2105may have a single-layered or multilayer structure including the above-described inorganic insulating material.

The first to third gate insulating layers1104,2104, and3104, the first interlayer insulating layer1105, and the second interlayer insulating layer2105may be arranged in the main display region MDA, and may overlap a portion of the component region CA.

The first source electrode S1, the first drain electrode D1, the second source electrode S2, and the second drain electrode D2may be disposed on the second interlayer insulating layer2105. The first source electrode S1and the first drain electrode D1may be arranged to overlap the first activation layer A1. The second source electrode S2and the second drain electrode D2may be arranged to overlap the second activation layer A2.

The first source electrode S1and the first drain electrode D1may be connected to the first activation layer A1via contact holes formed in the first and second interlayer insulting layers1105and2105and the first to third gate insulating layers1104,2104, and3104.

For example, the first source electrode S1may be connected to the source region of the first activation layer A1via contact holes formed in the first and second interlayer insulting layers1105and2105and the first to third gate insulating layers1104,2104, and3104. The first drain electrode D1may be connected to the drain region of the first activation layer A1via contact holes formed in the first and second interlayer insulting layers1105and2105and the first to third gate insulating layers1104,2104, and3104.

The second source electrode S2may be connected to the source region of the second activation layer A2via contact holes formed in the second interlayer insulating layer2105and the third gate insulating layer3104. The second drain electrode D2may be connected to the rain region of the second activation layer A2via contact holes formed in the second interlayer insulating layer2105and the third gate insulating layer3104.

A first conductive thin-film layer1109may be disposed on the second interlayer insulating layer2105, in a region in which the first and second thin-film transistors TFT1and TFT2are not arranged. The first conductive thin-film layer1109may cover portions of the first and second interlayer insulting layers1105and2105and first to third gate insulating layers1104,2104, and3104. A portion of the first conductive thin-film layer1109may be arranged in the main display region MDA, and the first conductive thin-film layer1109may extend to the component region CA.

A portion of the first conductive thin-film layer1109may overlap the component20, and may include a material having high transmittance or a transparent material. In an embodiment, the first conductive thin-film layer1109may have a single-layered or multilayer structure including a conductive oxide such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), zinc oxide (In2O3), indium gallium oxide (IGO), or aluminum zinc oxide (AZO).

A first organic insulating layer1107may be arranged to cover the first and second source electrodes S1and S2, the first and second drain electrodes D1and D2, and the first conductive thin-film layer1109. The first organic insulating layer1107may be arranged in the main display region MDA, the component region CA, and the peripheral region DPA.

The first organic insulating layer1107may include a contact hole overlapping the first drain electrode D1of the first thin-film transistor TFT1and a plurality of contact holes overlapping a portion of the first conductive thin-film layer1109. At least one of the plurality of contact holes overlapping the portion of the first conductive thin-film layer1109may be arranged in the main display region MDA, and the other may be arranged in the component region CA.

The first organic insulating layer1107may include a general purpose polymer such as benzocyclobutene, polyimide, hexamethyldisiloxane, polymethylmethacrylate, or polystyrene, a polymer derivative having a phenolic group, an acrylic polymer, an imide-based polymer, an aryl ether-based polymer, an amide-based polymer, a fluorine-based polymer, a p-xylene-based polymer, or a vinyl alcohol-based polymer.

First and second contact metals CM1and CM2may be disposed on the first organic insulating layer1107. The first contact metal CM1may be arranged in the main display region MDA, and the second contact metal CM2may be arranged in the component region CA. The first contact metal CM1may be connected with the first drain electrode D1via a contact hole in the first organic insulating layer1107, which overlaps the first drain electrode D1, and thus electrically connected with the first thin-film transistor TFT1. The first contact metal CM1may be connected with a portion of the first conductive thin-film layer1109arranged in the main display region MDA via a contact hole in the first organic insulating layer1107, which overlaps the first conductive thin-film layer1109. The second contact metal CM2may be connected with a portion of the first conductive thin-film layer1109arranged in the component region CA via a contact hole in the first organic insulating layer1107, which overlaps the first conductive thin-film layer1109.

Each of the first and second contact metals CM1and CM2may include aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), or titanium (Ti), and may be formed as a single layer or a multilayer, each including the above-described material.

A second organic insulating layer2107may be disposed on the first organic insulating layer1107. The second organic insulating layer2107may be arranged in the main display region MDA. The second organic insulating layer2107may include a plurality of contact holes overlapping the first contact metal CM1.

The second organic insulating layer2107may include a general purpose polymer such as benzocyclobutene, polyimide, hexamethyldisiloxane, polymethylmethacrylate, or polystyrene, a polymer derivative having a phenolic group, an acrylic polymer, an imide-based polymer, an aryl ether-based polymer, an amide-based polymer, a fluorine-based polymer, a p-xylene-based polymer, or a vinyl alcohol-based polymer.

A second conductive thin-film layer2109may be disposed on the first and second organic insulating layers1107and2107. A portion of the second conductive thin-film layer2109may be arranged in the main display region MDA, and the second conductive thin-film layer2109may extend to the component region CA.

A portion of the second conductive thin-film layer2109may be connected with the first contact metal CM1via a contact hole in the second organic insulating layer2107, which overlaps the first contact metal CM1.

A portion of the second conductive thin-film layer2109may overlap the component20, and may include a material having high transmittance or a transparent material. In an embodiment, the second conductive thin-film layer2109may have a single-layered or multilayer structure including a conductive oxide such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), zinc oxide (In2O3), indium gallium oxide (IGO), or aluminum zinc oxide (AZO).

A third organic insulating layer3107may be disposed on the second organic insulating layer2107. The third organic insulating layer3107may be arranged in the main display region MDA, the component region CA, and the peripheral region DPA.

The third organic insulating layer3107may include a contact hole overlapping the first contact metal CM1, a contact hole overlapping the second conductive thin-film layer2109in the component region CA, and a contact hole overlapping the second contact metal CM2.

A portion of the first contact metal CM1may be exposed via a contact hole through the second and third organic insulating layers2107and3107, which overlaps the first contact metal CM1.

The third organic insulating layer3107may include a general purpose polymer such as benzocyclobutene, polyimide, hexamethyldisiloxane, polymethylmethacrylate, or polystyrene, a polymer derivative having a phenolic group, an acrylic polymer, an imide-based polymer, an aryl ether-based polymer, an amide-based polymer, a fluorine-based polymer, a p-xylene-based polymer, or a vinyl alcohol-based polymer.

A main sub-pixel electrode1210may be disposed on the third organic insulating layer3107of the main display region MDA. A first auxiliary sub-pixel electrode2210and a second auxiliary sub-pixel electrode3210may be disposed on the third organic insulating layer3107of the component region CA.

The main sub-pixel electrode1210may be connected to the first contact metal CM1via a contact hole through the second and third organic insulating layers2107and3107, which overlaps the first contact metal CM1. Therefore, the main sub-pixel electrode1210may be electrically connected to the first thin-film transistor TFT1via the first contact metal CM1and the first drain electrode D1.

The first auxiliary sub-pixel electrode2210may be connected to the second conductive thin-film layer2109via a contact hole in the third organic insulating layer3107, which overlaps the second conductive thin-film layer2109. Therefore, the first auxiliary sub-pixel electrode2210may be electrically connected to the first thin-film transistor TFT1via the second conductive thin-film layer2109, the first contact metal CM1, and the first drain electrode D1.

The second auxiliary sub-pixel electrode3210may be connected to the second contact metal CM2via a contact hole in the third organic insulating layer3107, which overlaps the second contact metal CM2. Therefore, the second auxiliary sub-pixel electrode3210may be electrically connected to the first thin-film transistor TFT1via the second contact metal CM2, the first conductive thin-film layer1109, the first contact metal CM1, and the first drain electrode D1.

Each of the main sub-pixel electrode1210and the first and second auxiliary sub-pixel electrodes2210and3210may include a conductive oxide such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), zinc oxide (In2O3), indium gallium oxide (IGO), or aluminum zinc oxide (AZO). Each of the main sub-pixel electrode1210and the first and second auxiliary sub-pixel electrodes2210and3210may include a reflective film including silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir), chromium (Cr), or a compound thereof. For example, each of the main sub-pixel electrode1210and the first and second auxiliary sub-pixel electrodes2210and3210may have a structure in which films formed of ITO, IZO, ZnO, or In2O3are formed on one surface or both surfaces of the above-described reflective film. In an embodiment, each of the main sub-pixel electrode1210and the first and second auxiliary sub-pixel electrodes2210and3210may have a structure of a stack of ITO/Ag/ITO.

A subpixel-defining film111may be disposed on the third organic insulating layer3107. The subpixel-defining film111may cover an edge region (or edge) of each of the main sub-pixel electrode1210and the first and second auxiliary sub-pixel electrodes2210and3210.

In other words, the subpixel-defining film111may include an opening which exposes a central portion of each of the main sub-pixel electrode1210and the first and second auxiliary sub-pixel electrodes2210and3210.

For example, the subpixel-defining film111may include a first opening111-OP1which exposes a central portion of the main sub-pixel electrode1210. The subpixel-defining film111may include a second opening111-OP2which exposes a central portion of the first auxiliary sub-pixel electrode2210. The subpixel-defining film111may include a third opening111-OP3which exposes a central portion of the second auxiliary sub-pixel electrode3210.

The size and shape of an emission region of the main organic light-emitting diode OLEDm, that is, the main sub-pixel Pm, may be defined by the first opening111-OP1of the subpixel-defining film111. The size and shape of an emission region of the first auxiliary organic light-emitting diode OLEDa1, that is, the first auxiliary sub-pixel Pa1, may be defined by the second opening111-OP2of the subpixel-defining film111. The size and shape of an emission region of the second auxiliary organic light-emitting diode OLEDa2, that is, the second auxiliary sub-pixel Pa2, may be defined by the third opening111-OP3of the subpixel-defining film111.

A main intermediate layer1220, a first auxiliary intermediate layer2220, and a second auxiliary intermediate layer3220may be respectively arranged in the first to third openings111-OP1,111-OP2, and111-OP3of the subpixel-defining film111. For example, the main intermediate layer1220may be arranged in the first opening111-OP1and disposed on the main sub-pixel electrode1210. The first auxiliary intermediate layer2220may be arranged in the second opening111-OP2and disposed on the first auxiliary sub-pixel electrode2210. The second auxiliary intermediate layer3220may be arranged in the third opening111-OP3and disposed on the second auxiliary sub-pixel electrode3210.

Each of the main intermediate layer1220and the first and second auxiliary intermediate layers2220and3220may include an emission layer (EML) including a low-molecular-weight or polymer material. Each of the main intermediate layer1220and the first and second auxiliary intermediate layers2220and3220may have a structure in which a hole injection layer (HIL), a hole transport layer (HTL), an EML, an electron transport layer (ETL), or an electron injection layer (EIL) are stacked in a single or complex structure.

Although not shown inFIG.4, an opposite electrode may be arranged to cover the main intermediate layer1220and the first and second auxiliary intermediate layers2220and3220. In addition, the thin-film encapsulation layer300(FIG.2) may be disposed on the opposite electrode.

FIG.4illustrates that a portion of each of the main sub-pixel electrode1210, the first and second auxiliary sub-pixel electrodes2210and3210, and the second conductive thin-film layer2109is arranged in a contact hole, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, each of the main sub-pixel electrode1210, the first and second auxiliary sub-pixel electrodes2210and3210, and the second conductive thin-film layer2109may be electrically connected with a lower layer (for example, the first contact metal CM1, the second contact metal CM2, and the second conductive thin-film layer2109) via a separate contact metal arranged in a contact hole.

FIGS.5A and5Bare schematic plan views of a portion of a display apparatus according to an embodiment.

FIGS.5A and5Bare schematic plan views of a portion of a display apparatus according to the embodiment shown inFIG.4.

Referring toFIG.5A, the second substrate2100may include the component region CA and the main display region MDA surrounding at least a portion of the component region CA.

The second-1 electrode2101amay be arranged to substantially surround the component region CA. For example, the second-1 electrode2101amay include a second portion2101a-2having a substantially circular shape with one side open and substantially surrounding the component region CA. The second-1 electrode2101amay include a first portion2101a-1extending from a central portion of the component region CA to the main display region MDA through the one open side of the second portion2101a-2.

Either the first portion2101a-1or the second portion2101a-2of the second-1 electrode2101amay be grounded.FIG.5Aillustrates that the second portion2101a-2is grounded, but in another embodiment, the first portion2101a-1may be grounded.

Because the second substrate2100may include an insulating material, the first portion2101a-1or the second portion2101a-2may extend to an arbitrary region within the second substrate2100and be grounded.

FIG.5Aillustrates that the component region CA has a circular shape and the second portion2101a-2of the second-1 electrode2101ahas a substantially circular shape surrounding the component region CA, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the shape of the component region CA may be variously transformed into a polygon, a star shape, or a diamond shape, and the second portion2101a-2may surround a portion of the component region CA.

Referring toFIG.5B, a voltage may be applied to a non-grounded portion (for example, the first portion2101a-1) of the second-1 electrode2101a.In this case, a potential difference may occur between the first portion2101a-1and the second portion2101a-2, and a portion of the second substrate2100, which is arranged therebetween, may be exposed to an electric field.

Because the second substrate2100may include an electrochromic material, the transmittance of the second substrate2100may change when the second substrate2100is exposed to an electric field. For example, when the second substrate2100is exposed to an electric field, the transmittance of the second substrate2100may increase. An electric field may be formed in a region (or the component region CA) between the first portion2101a-1and the second portion2101a-2of the second-1 electrode2101adue to a potential difference therebetween. A portion of the second substrate2100, which corresponds to the component region CA, may be exposed to an electric field, and thus, the transmittance of the second substrate2100may increase.

Although not shown inFIGS.5A and5B, the first substrate1100(FIG.6A) and the first-1 electrode1101a(FIG.6A) may be arranged in a −z direction of the second substrate2100. Like the second-1 electrode2101a,the first-1 electrode1101a(FIG.6A) may include first and second portions1101a-1and1101a-2, respectively (FIG.6A).

The first-1 electrode1101a(FIG.6A) may have a shape same as that of the second-1 electrode2101a.Therefore, in a plan view, the first-1 electrode1101a(FIG.6A) may be covered by the second-1 electrode2101aand thus may not be visible. The disclosure is not limited thereto, and in another embodiment, the first-1 electrode1101a(FIG.6A) and the second-1 electrode2101amay partially overlap each other.

A process of applying a voltage to the first-1 electrode1101a(FIG.6A) to form an electric field and changing the transmittance of the first substrate1100(FIG.6A) may be similar to the relationship between the second-1 electrode2101aand the second substrate2100.

FIGS.6A and6Bare schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a display apparatus according to an embodiment.

FIG.6Amay be a cross-sectional view of one of various examples of the embodiment shown inFIG.5Ataken along line III-III′.

FIG.6Bmay be a cross-sectional view of one of various examples of the embodiment shown inFIG.5Btaken along line III-III′.

Referring toFIG.6A, the second-1 electrode2101amay include the first portion2101a-1and the second portion2101a-2. The first-1 electrode1101amay include the first portion1101a-1and the second portion1101a-2.

Planar shapes of the second-1 electrode2101aand the first-1 electrode1101amay be similar to those described with reference toFIGS.5A and5B.

For example, the second portion2101a-2of the second-1 electrode2101aand the second portion1101a-2of the first-1 electrode1101amay be respectively grounded to the second substrate2100and the first substrate1100.

FIG.6Aillustrates that the first-1 and second-1 electrodes1101aand2101a,respectively, completely overlap each other, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the first-1 and second-1 electrodes1101aand2101amay partially overlap each other.

The first-1 electrode1101amay be arranged in a groove formed in one surface of the first substrate1100. In other words, an upper surface (or lower surface) of the first-1 electrode1101amay be coplanar with an upper surface (or lower surface) of the first substrate1100.

FIG.6Aillustrates that the first-1 electrode1101ais disposed on the upper surface of the first substrate1100, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the first-1 electrode1101amay be disposed on the lower surface of the first substrate1100. In another embodiment, the first-1 electrode1101amay be inserted into the first substrate1100.

The second-1 electrode2101amay be arranged in a groove formed on one surface of the second substrate2100. In other words, an upper surface (or lower surface) of the second-1 electrode2101amay be coplanar with an upper surface (or lower surface) of the second substrate2100.

FIG.6Aillustrates that the second-1 electrode2101ais disposed on the upper surface of the second substrate2100, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the second-1 electrode2101amay be disposed on the lower surface of the second substrate2100. In another embodiment, the second-1 electrode2101amay be inserted into the second substrate2100.

Referring toFIG.6B, a voltage may be applied to a non-grounded portion (for example, the first portion1101a-1) of the first-1 electrode1101a.In this case, a potential difference may occur between the first portion1101a-1and the second portion1101a-2, and a portion of the first substrate1100, which is arranged therebetween, may be exposed to an electric field.

Because the first substrate1100may include an electrochromic material, the transmittance of the first substrate1100may change when the first substrate1100is exposed to an electric field. For example, when the first substrate1100is exposed to an electric field, the transmittance of the first substrate1100may increase. An electric field may be formed in the component region CA due to a potential difference between the first portion1101a-1and the second portion1101a-2of the first-1 electrode1101a.A portion of the first substrate1100, which corresponds to the component region CA, may be exposed to an electric field, and thus, the transmittance of the first substrate1100may increase.

A voltage may be applied to a non-grounded portion (for example, the first portion2101a-1) of the second-1 electrode2101a.In this case, a potential difference may occur between the first portion2101a-1and the second portion2101a-2, and a portion of the second substrate2100, which is arranged therebetween, may be exposed to an electric field.

Because the second substrate2100may include an electrochromic material, the transmittance of the second substrate2100may change when the second substrate2100is exposed to an electric field. For example, when the second substrate2100is exposed to an electric field, the transmittance of the second substrate2100may increase. An electric field may be formed in the component region CA due to a potential difference between the first portion2101a-1and the second portion2101a-2of the second-1 electrode2101a.A portion of the second substrate2100, which corresponds to the component region CA, may be exposed to an electric field, and thus, the transmittance of the second substrate2100may increase.

FIGS.7A and7Bare schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a display apparatus according to another embodiment.

FIG.7Amay be a cross-sectional view of one of various examples of the embodiment shown inFIG.5Ataken along line III-III′.

FIG.7Bmay be a cross-sectional view of one of various examples of the embodiment shown inFIG.5Btaken along line III-III′.

Referring toFIG.7A, the first-1 electrode1101amay be disposed on the first substrate1100. In this case, the first-1 electrode1101amay be patterned on the first substrate1100. In other words, a lower surface of the first-1 electrode1101amay be coplanar with an upper surface of the first substrate1100.

The second-1 electrode2101amay be disposed on the second substrate2100. In this case, the second-1 electrode2101amay be patterned on the second substrate2100. In other words, a lower surface of the second-1 electrode2101amay be coplanar with an upper surface of the second substrate2100.

In addition, features related to the embodiments shown inFIGS.7A and7Bare the same as those described with reference toFIGS.6A and6B.

FIG.8is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a display apparatus according to an embodiment.

FIG.8is a cross-sectional view of one of various examples of the embodiment shown inFIG.3taken along line II-II′.

Referring toFIG.8, the second substrate2100may include an opening2100-OP arranged in the peripheral region DPA and penetrating the second substrate2100. The first barrier layer1102may include an opening1102-OP arranged in the peripheral region DPA and penetrating the first barrier layer1102. The opening2100-OP of the second substrate2100and the opening1102-OP of the first barrier layer1102may overlap each other.

In some embodiments, the first barrier layer1102may be omitted.

The second-1 electrode2101amay be disposed on the second substrate2100. The first-1 electrode1101amay be disposed below the first barrier layer1102.

A connection line CNT may be arranged in the opening2100-OP of the second substrate2100and the opening1102-OP of the first barrier layer1102. The connection line CNT may be connected to the second-1 electrode2101aand the first-1 electrode1101a.In some embodiments, the connection line CNT may be a portion of the second-1 electrode2101aor the first-1 electrode1101aextending from the second-1 electrode2101aor the first-1 electrode1101a,respectively.

The second-1 electrode2101aand the first-1 electrode1101amay be electrically connected to each other via the connection line CNT. A same voltage may be applied to the second-1 electrode2101aand the first-1 electrode1101a.

A portion of the second-1 electrode2101a,to which a voltage is applied, may be the first portion2101a-1(FIG.5B) of the second-1 electrode2101a.Therefore, according to the embodiment shown inFIG.8, in the second-1 electrode2101a,the second portion2101a-2(FIG.5B) may be grounded, and a voltage may be applied to the first portion2101a-1(FIG.5B). This may be similarly applied to the first-1 electrode1101a.

The terminal portion40may be arranged to be adjacent to the first-1 electrode1101a.

A bump layer401may be arranged between the terminal portion40and the first-1 electrode1101a.The bump layer401may include a plurality of bumps including a conductive material (for example, metal). For example, the bump layer401may include a plurality of bumps including copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), tin (Sn), or gold (Au) or including an alloy including at least one of copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), tin (Sn), and gold (Au).

Electrical signals generated from the terminal portion40may be transferred to the display panel10(FIG.2) via the bump layer401. Although not shown inFIG.8, the display apparatus may further include a separate line which is contact with the bump layer401and connected to the display panel.

In some embodiments, bumps of the bump layer401may be formed directly on the terminal portion40, and thus, the bump layer401may be a portion of the terminal portion40.

A conductive ink layer403may protrude from a side surface of the terminal portion40and may be connected to the bottom of the first-1 electrode1101a.The conductive ink layer403may include a conductive material (for example, metal).

The conductive ink layer403may electrically connect the terminal portion40with the first-1 electrode1101a.An electrical signal generated from the terminal portion40may be transferred to the first-1 electrode1101a,the connection line CNT, and the second-1 electrode2101avia the conductive ink layer403. In other words, the first-1 electrode1101aand the second-1 electrode2101amay receive a voltage from the terminal portion40via the conductive ink layer403.

FIG.8illustrates that the terminal portion40, the bump layer401, and the conductive ink layer403are disposed under the first-1 electrode1101a,but the disclosure is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the terminal portion40, the bump layer401, and the conductive ink layer403may be disposed on the second-1 electrode2101a.

FIG.9is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a display apparatus according to another embodiment.FIG.9is a cross-sectional view of one of various examples of the embodiment shown inFIG.3taken along line I-I′.

Other features except for some of the features of the embodiment shown inFIG.9are previously described with reference toFIG.4and thus omitted, and hereinafter, differences are mainly described.

A first-2 electrode1101bmay be disposed on a lower surface of the first substrate1100. In other words, the first-2 electrode1101bmay be disposed on one surface of the first substrate1100, which faces the component20.

A second-2 electrode2101bmay be arranged between the second substrate2100and the first barrier layer1102. In other words, the second-2 electrode2101bmay be disposed on one surface of the second substrate2100, which faces the first barrier layer1102.

At least a portion of each of the first-2 and second-2 electrodes1101band2101bmay overlap the component20. For example, at least a portion of the first-2 electrode1101bmay overlap the first-1 electrode1101a.At least a portion of the second-2 electrode2101bmay overlap the second-1 electrode2101a.

At least a portion of each of the first-2 and second-2 electrodes1101band2101bmay be arranged in the component region CA, may overlap a portion of the main display region MDA, and may extend to the peripheral region DPA. In an embodiment, a portion of each of the first-2 and second-2 electrodes1101band2101bmay be arranged in the component region CA, another portion thereof may be arranged in the main display region MDA arranged between the component region CA and the peripheral region DPA, and another portion thereof may be arranged in the peripheral region DPA.

FIG.9illustrates that the first-2 and second-2 electrodes1101band2101bare arranged to overlap the entire component region CA, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the first-2 electrode1101bmay be arranged to overlap the entire component region CA, and the second-2 electrode2101bmay be arranged to overlap a portion of the component region CA.

The first-2 and second-2 electrodes1101band2101bmay not overlap the main organic light-emitting diode OLEDm.

FIG.9illustrates all of the first-1 to second-2 electrodes1101a,1101b,2101a,and2101b,but the disclosure is not limited thereto, and some of the first-1 to second-2 electrodes1101a,1101b,2101a,and2101bmay be omitted. In another embodiment, the display apparatus1may include the first-1 electrode1101a,the second-1 electrode2101a,and the second-2 electrode2101b.Alternatively, the display apparatus1may include the first-1 electrode1101a,the first-2 electrode1101b,and the second-1 electrode2101a.

The first-1 and first-2 electrodes1101aand1101bmay overlap each other. In an embodiment, the first-1 and first-2 electrodes1101aand1101bmay have a same shape on a plane and may completely overlap each other.

The second-1 and second-2 electrodes2101aand2101bmay overlap each other. In an embodiment, the second-1 and second-2 electrodes2101aand2101bmay have a same shape on a plane and may completely overlap each other.

The disclosure is not limited thereto, the first-1 and first-2 electrodes1101aand1101bmay partially overlap each other, and the second-1 and second-2 electrodes2101aand2101bmay partially overlap each other. However, in the present specification, for convenience of description, an embodiment of a case where the first-1 and first-2 electrodes1101aand1101bcompletely overlap each other and the second-1 and second-2 electrodes2101aand2101bcompletely overlap each other is shown and described.

FIGS.10A and10Bare schematic plan views of a portion of a display apparatus according to another embodiment.

FIGS.10A and10Bare schematic plan views of a portion of a display apparatus according to the embodiment shown inFIG.9.

Hereinafter, description is provided based on the second-1 electrode2101a,but features described below may be equally applied to the first-1 electrode1101a(FIG.9), the first-2 electrode1101b(FIG.9), and the second-2 electrode2101b(FIG.9).

Referring toFIG.10A, the second substrate2100may include the component region CA and the main display region MDA surrounding at least a portion of the component region CA.

The second-1 electrode2101amay be arranged to surround the component region CA. For example, the second-1 electrode2101amay have a substantially circular shape and surround the component region CA.

The second-1 electrode2101amay include a mesh shape. For example, the second-1 electrode2101amay include a mesh shape in a portion corresponding to the component region CA. However, the disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto, and the portion of the second-1 electrode2101a,which corresponds to the component region CA, may include various shapes such as a stripe in a +x direction and a stripe in a ty direction or may be completely filled.

The second-1 electrode2101amay be grounded. Because the second substrate2100may include an insulating material, the second-1 electrode2101amay extend to an arbitrary region within the second substrate2100and be grounded.FIG.10Aillustrates that the second-1 electrode2101ais grounded, but in another embodiment, the second-2 electrode2101b(FIG.9) may be grounded.

FIG.10Aillustrates that the component region CA has a circular shape and the second-1 electrode2101ahas a circular shape surrounding the component region CA, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the shape of the component region CA may be variously transformed into a polygon, a star shape, or a diamond shape, and the second-1 electrode2101amay surround a portion of the component region CA.

Although not shown inFIGS.10A and10B, the second-2 electrode2101b(FIG.9), the first substrate1100(FIG.9), and the first-1 and first-2 electrodes1101aand1101b(FIG.9) may be arranged in a −z direction of the second substrate2100.

The second-2 electrode2101b(FIG.9) may have a shape same as that of the second-1 electrode2101a.Therefore, in a plan view, the second-2 electrode2101b(FIG.9) may be covered by the second-1 electrode2101aand thus may not be visible. The disclosure is not limited thereto, and in another embodiment, the second-2 electrode2101b(FIG.9) and the second-1 electrode2101amay partially overlap each other.

Each of the first-1 and first-2 electrodes1101aand1101b(FIG.9) may have a shape same as that of the second-1 electrode2101a.Therefore, in a plan view, the first-1 and first-2 electrodes1101aand1101b(FIG.9) may be covered by the second-1 electrode2101aand thus may not be visible. The disclosure is not limited thereto, and in another embodiment, and in another embodiment, the first-1 and first-2 electrodes1101aand1101b(FIG.9) and the second-1 electrode2101amay partially overlap each other.

Referring toFIG.10B, a voltage may be applied to a non-grounded portion (for example, the second-2 electrode2101b(FIG.9)) of the second electrode2101. In this case, a potential difference may occur between the second-1 electrode2101aand the second-2 electrode2101b(FIG.9), and a portion of the second substrate2100, which is arranged therebetween, may be exposed to an electric field.

Because the second substrate2100may include an electrochromic material, the transmittance of the second substrate2100may change when the second substrate2100is exposed to an electric field. For example, when the second substrate2100is exposed to an electric field, the transmittance of the second substrate2100may increase. An electric field may be formed in a region (or the component region CA) between the second-1 electrode2101aand the second-2 electrode2101b(FIG.9) due to a potential difference therebetween. A portion of the second substrate2100, which corresponds to the component region CA, may be exposed to an electric field, and thus, the transmittance of the second substrate2100may increase.

A process of forming an electric field between the first-1 and first-2 electrodes1101aand1101b(FIG.9) and changing the transmittance of the first substrate1100(FIG.9) may be similar to the relationship between the second-1 electrode2101a,the second-2 electrode2101b(FIG.9), and the second substrate2100.

FIGS.11A and11Bare schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a display apparatus according to another embodiment.

FIG.11Amay be a cross-sectional view of one of various examples of the embodiment shown inFIG.10Ataken along line IV-IV′.

FIG.11Bmay be a cross-sectional view of one of various examples of the embodiment shown inFIG.10Btaken along line IV-IV′.

Referring toFIG.11A, the second electrode2101may include the second-1 electrode2101aand the second-2 electrode2101b.A first electrode1101may include the first-1 electrode1101aand the first-2 electrode1101b.

Planar shapes of the first-1 to second-2 electrodes1101a,1101b,2101a,and2101bmay be similar to those described with reference toFIGS.10A and10B.

One of the first electrode1101and one of the second electrode2101may be grounded. For example, the first-1 electrode1101aand the second-2 electrode2101bmay be grounded. In another embodiment, the first-2 electrode1101band the second-1 electrode2101amay be grounded.

FIG.11Aillustrates that the first-1 to second-2 electrodes1101a,1101b,2101a,and2101bcompletely overlap each other, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the first-1 to second-2 electrodes1101a,1101b,2101a,and2101bmay partially overlap each other.

The first-1 electrode1101amay be arranged in a groove formed in an upper surface of the first substrate1100. In other words, an upper surface of the first-1 electrode1101amay be coplanar with the upper surface of the first substrate1100.

The first-2 electrode1101bmay be arranged in a groove formed in a lower surface of the first substrate1100. Alternatively, after the first-2 electrode1101bis patterned, the first substrate1100may be disposed on the first-2 electrode1101b.In other words, a lower surface of the first-2 electrode1101bmay be coplanar with the lower surface of the first substrate1100.

FIG.11Aillustrates that the first-1 electrode1101ais disposed on the upper surface of the first substrate1100and the first-2 electrode1101bis disposed on the lower surface of the first substrate1100, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, one of the first-1 electrode1101aand the first-2 electrode1101bmay be inserted into the first substrate1100.

The second-1 electrode2101amay be arranged in a groove formed in an upper surface of the second substrate2100. In other words, an upper surface of the second-1 electrode2101amay be coplanar with the upper surface of the second substrate2100.

The second-2 electrode2101bmay be arranged in a groove formed in a lower surface of the second substrate2100. Alternatively, after the second-2 electrode2101bis patterned on the first barrier layer1102, the second substrate2100may be disposed on the second-2 electrode2101b.In other words, a lower surface of the second-2 electrode2101bmay be coplanar with the lower surface of the second substrate2100.

FIG.11Aillustrates that the second-1 electrode2101ais disposed on the upper surface of the second substrate2100and the second-2 electrode2101bis disposed on the lower surface of the second substrate2100, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, one of the second-1 electrode2101aand the second-2 electrode2101bmay be inserted into the second substrate2100.

Referring toFIG.11B, a voltage may be applied to a non-grounded electrode (for example, the first-2 electrode1101b) of the first electrode1101. In this case, a potential difference may occur between the first-1 electrode1101aand the first-2 electrode1101b,and a portion of the first substrate1100, which is arranged therebetween, may be exposed to an electric field.

Because the first substrate1100may include an electrochromic material, the transmittance of the first substrate1100may change when the first substrate1100is exposed to an electric field. For example, when the first substrate1100is exposed to an electric field, the transmittance of the first substrate1100may increase. An electric field may be formed in the component region CA due to a potential difference between the first-1 electrode1101aand the first-2 electrode1101b.A portion of the first substrate1100, which corresponds to the component region CA, may be exposed to an electric field, and thus, the transmittance of the first substrate1100may increase.

A voltage may be applied to a non-grounded portion (for example, the second-1 electrode2101a) of the second electrode2101. In this case, a potential difference may occur between the second-1 electrode2101aand the second-2 electrode2101b,and a portion of the second substrate2100, which is arranged therebetween, may be exposed to an electric field.

Because the second substrate2100may include an electrochromic material, the transmittance of the second substrate2100may change when the second substrate2100is exposed to an electric field. For example, when the second substrate2100is exposed to an electric field, the transmittance of the second substrate2100may increase. An electric field may be formed in the component region CA due to a potential difference between the second-1 electrode2101aand the second-2 electrode2101b.A portion of the second substrate2100, which corresponds to the component region CA, may be exposed to an electric field, and thus, the transmittance of the second substrate2100may increase.

FIGS.12A and12Bare schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a display apparatus according to another embodiment.

FIG.12Amay be a cross-sectional view of one of various examples of the embodiment shown inFIG.10Ataken along line IV-IV′.

FIG.12Bmay be a cross-sectional view of one of various examples of the embodiment shown inFIG.10Btaken along line IV-IV′.

Referring toFIG.12A, the first-1 electrode1101amay be disposed on the first substrate1100. In this case, the first-1 electrode1101amay be patterned on the first substrate1100. In other words, a lower surface of the first-1 electrode1101amay be coplanar with an upper surface of the first substrate1100.

The second-1 electrode2101amay be disposed on the second substrate2100. In this case, the second-1 electrode2101amay be patterned on the second substrate2100. In other words, a lower surface of the second-1 electrode2101amay be coplanar with an upper surface of the second substrate2100.

In addition, features related to the embodiments shown inFIGS.12A and12Bare the same as those described with reference toFIGS.11A and11B.

FIG.13is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a display apparatus according to another embodiment.

FIG.13is a cross-sectional view of one of various examples of the embodiment shown inFIG.3taken along line II-II′.

Hereinafter, among features of an embodiment shown inFIG.13, differences from the embodiment shown inFIG.8are mainly described.

Referring toFIG.13, the second-1 electrode2101amay be disposed on the second substrate2100. The first-2 electrode1101bmay be disposed below the first substrate1100.

The connection line CNT may be arranged in the opening2100-OP of the second substrate2100and the opening1102-OP of the first barrier layer1102. The connection line CNT may be connected to the second-1 electrode2101aand the first-2 electrode1101b.In some embodiments, the connection line CNT may be a portion of the second-1 electrode2101aor the first-2 electrode1101bextending from the second-1 electrode2101aor the first-2 electrode1101b,respectively.

The second-1 electrode2101aand the first-2 electrode1101bmay be electrically connected to each other via the connection line CNT. A same voltage may be applied to the second-1 electrode2101aand the first-2 electrode1101b.

The terminal portion40may be arranged to be adjacent to the first-2 electrode1101b.The bump layer401may be arranged between the terminal portion40and the first-2 electrode1101b.

The conductive ink layer403may protrude from a side surface of the terminal portion40and may be connected to the bottom of the first-2 electrode1101b.

The conductive ink layer403may electrically connect the terminal portion40with the first-2 electrode1101b.An electrical signal generated from the terminal portion40may be transferred to the first-2 electrode1101b,the connection line CNT, and the second-1 electrode2101avia the conductive ink layer403. In other words, the first-2 electrode1101band the second-1 electrode2101amay receive a voltage from the terminal portion40via the conductive ink layer403.

In this case, because a voltage is applied to the second-1 electrode2101aand the first-2 electrode1101b,it may be understood that the second-2 electrode2101b(FIG.11B) and the first-1 electrode1101a(FIG.11B) are grounded.

FIG.13illustrates that the terminal portion40, the bump layer401, and the conductive ink layer403are arranged under the first-2 electrode1101b,but the disclosure is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the terminal portion40, the bump layer401, and the conductive ink layer403may be disposed on the second-1 electrode2101a.

The embodiments shown inFIGS.6A and6Bmay be defined as a first embodiment, the embodiments shown inFIGS.7A and7Bmay be defined as a second embodiment, the embodiments shown inFIGS.11A and11Bmay be defined as a third embodiment, and the embodiments shown inFIGS.12A and12Bmay be defined as a fourth embodiment.

Both ends of a circuit to which a voltage is applied to form an electric field are implemented via first and second portions (for example, the first and second portions2101a-1and2101a-2of the second-1 electrode2101a(FIG.6)) of an electrode, which are arranged on a same plane, in the first and second embodiments. In the third and fourth embodiments, implementation is made via second electrodes (for example, the first-1 electrode1101aand the first-2 electrode1101b(FIG.11A) arranged on different planes.

Because the electrode including a plurality of portions in the same plane is formed in the first and second embodiments, the electrode may be formed via a single mask.

Because a plurality of electrodes are formed on different planes in the third and fourth embodiments, the electrodes may be formed via a plurality of masks.

In the first and second embodiments, the electrode including the plurality of portions on a same plane is arranged, and thus, there may be a difference in magnitude between an electric field formed on the same plane and an electric field formed on a different plane in a +z direction. For example, in the first embodiment, an electric field may decrease away from a same plane on which the first and second portions2101a-1and2101a-2(FIG.6B) of the second-1 electrode2101a(FIG.6B) are arranged. In this case, a driving voltage required in the first and second embodiments may be about 3 V or more to achieve a transmittance (for example, a transmittance of about 80% or more) greater than or equal to a target transmittance.

Because a plurality of electrodes are arranged in different planes in the third and fourth embodiments, a constant electric field may be formed in a portion of a substrate, which is arranged between the electrodes. For example, in the third embodiment, a constant electric field may be formed between the second-1 and second-2 electrodes2101aand2101b(FIG.11B) in a +z direction. In this case, a driving voltage required in the third and fourth embodiments may be about 0.5 V to about 3 V achieve a transmittance (for example, a transmittance of about 80% or more) greater than or equal to a target transmittance.

Therefore, as compared to the first and second embodiments, in the third and fourth embodiments, electrochromic efficiency may be high, and a driving voltage may be low, which may be advantageous in use. As compared to the third and fourth embodiments, the first and second embodiments may have advantages in manufacturing processes because the number of masks required for forming an electrode is small.

According to an embodiment, a display apparatus having improved transmittance of a component region by applying a voltage to the component region of the display apparatus including a substrate including an electrochromic material may be implemented. However, the scope of the disclosure is not limited thereto.