Display device

A display device includes a base layer, a display layer on the base layer and defined with a plurality of light emitting areas and a surrounding area, a sensing layer on the display layer, and an antenna layer on the display layer and including a plurality of antennas, wherein each of the plurality of antennas includes a first pattern configured to receive a signal, and a second pattern on the same layer as the first pattern, the second pattern being separated from the first pattern and grounded, and each of the first pattern and the second pattern has a mesh structure and overlaps the surrounding area.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0056992, filed on May 13, 2020, the entire content of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure herein relates to a communicable display device.

A display device may include one or more electronic modules. For example, the display device may be a mobile terminal or a wearable device, and the electronic modules may include an antenna module, a camera module, and/or a battery module. According to thinning of the mobile terminal and miniaturization of the wearable device, a space in which the electronic modules are mounted is gradually decreased. In addition, as an electronic device becomes highly functionalized and is developed to high specification, the number of electronic modules included in the display device increases.

SUMMARY

Aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure are directed towards a thin-type display device (e.g., a thin kind of display device) including an antenna.

Aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure are also directed towards a display device from which an antenna is not viewed from the outside (e.g., an antenna that is not viewable from the outside or whose visibility from the outside is reduced).

Aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure are also directed towards a display device communicable in various suitable frequency bands.

An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a display device including: a base layer; a display layer on the base layer and defined with a plurality of light emitting areas and a surrounding area around the plurality of light emitting areas; a sensing (sensor) layer on the display layer and including a plurality of first sensing electrodes and a plurality of second sensing electrodes; and an antenna layer on the display layer and including a plurality of antennas, wherein each of the plurality of antennas includes a first pattern configured to receive a signal, and a second pattern on a same layer (e.g., a same layer level) as the first pattern, the second pattern being separated from the first pattern and grounded, wherein each of the first pattern and the second pattern has a mesh structure and overlaps the surrounding area.

In an embodiment, the first pattern may include a first pattern portion extending along a first direction and a second pattern portion extending along a second direction crossing the first direction.

In an embodiment, at least one of the plurality of antennas may further include a third pattern extending along the first direction, wherein the third pattern is arranged between the first pattern portion and the second pattern, and wherein the third pattern has a mesh structure.

In an embodiment, the first pattern portion may be defined with a first area and a second area separated from the first area in the first direction, and the plurality of antennas may include a first antenna and a second antenna, wherein the second pattern portion of the first antenna may extend from the first area of the first antenna, and the second pattern portion of the second antenna may extend from the second area of the second antenna.

In an embodiment, the sensing layer may further include a cover insulation layer configured to cover the plurality of first sensing electrodes and the plurality of second sensing electrodes, wherein the plurality of antennas may be on the cover insulation layer.

In an embodiment, the sensing layer may further include a planarization insulation layer on the cover insulation layer, wherein the plurality of antennas may be directly on the planarization insulation layer.

In an embodiment, the antenna layer may further include a dummy pattern separated from the plurality of antennas and on the cover insulation layer, wherein the dummy pattern has a mesh structure, and, in a plan view (e.g., when viewed from a thickness direction) of the display layer, overlaps the surrounding area and is separated from the plurality of light emitting areas.

In an embodiment, each of the plurality of first sensing electrodes may include: a plurality of sensing patterns; and a bridge pattern on a different layer (e.g., a different layer level) than a layer that the plurality of sensing patterns are on, and electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to two adjacent sensing patterns among the plurality of sensing patterns, wherein the plurality of antennas are on a same layer as the bridge pattern.

In an embodiment, a layer, on which the plurality of sensing patterns are arranged, may be closer to the display layer than a layer, on which the bridge pattern is arranged, is to the display layer. For example, a distance between the layer that the plurality of sensing patterns are on and the display layer is less than a distance between the layer that the bridge pattern is on and the display layer.

In an embodiment, the antenna layer may include a dummy pattern separated from both the plurality of antennas and the bridge pattern, and wherein the dummy pattern is on the same layer as the bridge pattern.

In an embodiment, the sensing layer may further include: a plurality of sensing wirings electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to the plurality of first sensing electrodes and the plurality of second sensing electrodes, respectively; and a plurality of sensing pads electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to the plurality of sensing wirings, respectively, and the antenna layer may further include: a plurality of antenna wirings electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) with the plurality of antennas, respectively; and a plurality of antenna pads electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to the plurality of antenna wirings, respectively.

In an embodiment, the base layer may include: a first base area overlapping the plurality of light emitting areas and the surrounding area; a second base area extending from a first edge portion of the first base area; and a third base area extending from the second base area, wherein the plurality of sensing pads and the plurality of antenna pads are on the third base area.

In an embodiment, the base layer may include a first base area overlapping the plurality of light emitting areas and the surrounding area; a second base area extending from a first edge portion of the first base area; a third base area extending from the second base area; a fourth base area extending from a second edge portion of the first base area different from the first edge portion of the first base area; and a fifth base area extending from the fourth base area, wherein the plurality of sensing pads are on the third base area and the plurality of antenna pads are on the fifth base area.

In an embodiment, each of the plurality of sensing wirings may be configured with a plurality of sensing conductive layers, and each of the plurality of antenna wirings may be configured with a single antenna conductive layer, wherein the single antenna conductive layer may be on the plurality of sensing conductive layers.

In an embodiment, each of the plurality of sensing wirings may be configured with a first sensing conductive layer and a second sensing conductive layer on the first sensing conductive layer, and each of the plurality of antenna wirings may be configured with a first antenna conductive layer on a same layer as the first sensing conductive layer, and a second antenna conductive layer on the first antenna conductive layer and on a same layer as the second sensing conductive layer.

In an embodiment, a thickness of each of the plurality of antennas may be greater than a thickness of each of the plurality of second sensing electrodes. For example, each of the plurality of antennas may be greater in thickness than each of the plurality of second sensing electrodes.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a display device includes: a display layer including a plurality of light emitting areas and a surrounding area around the plurality of light emitting areas; a sensing layer including a sensing electrode on the display layer and including a plurality of sensing patterns and a bridge pattern electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to the plurality of sensing patterns, a sensing wiring electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to the sensing electrode, and a sensing pad electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to the sensing wiring; and an antenna layer including an antenna on the display layer and overlapping at least a portion of the plurality of sensing patterns, an antenna wiring electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to the antenna, and an antenna pad electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to the antenna wiring, wherein each of the antenna and the plurality of sensing patterns has openings, wherein the openings surround at least one of the plurality of light emitting areas in a plan view (e.g., when viewed from a thickness direction) of the display layer.

In an embodiment, each of the antennas may include a first pattern configured to receive a signal, and a second pattern on a same layer as the first pattern, the second pattern being separated from the first pattern and grounded, wherein the first pattern may include a first pattern portion extending along a first direction and a second pattern portion extending from the first pattern portion along a second direction crossing the first direction, wherein the first pattern portion may be defined with a first area and a second area separated from the first area in the first direction, wherein the antenna may be provided in plural, and the plurality of antennas may include a first antenna and a second antenna, wherein the second pattern portion of the first antenna extends from the first area of the first antenna, and the second pattern portion of the second antenna extends from the second area of the second antenna.

In an embodiment, the first antenna may further include a third pattern extending along the first direction, wherein the third pattern is arranged between the first pattern portion and the second pattern, and wherein the third pattern has a mesh structure.

In an embodiment, the antenna layer may further include a dummy pattern separated from the antenna, wherein the dummy pattern has a mesh structure and, in the plan view (e.g., when viewed from the thickness direction) of the display layer, overlaps the surrounding area and is separated from the plurality of light emitting areas.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “connected to” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it can be directly on, directly connected to or directly coupled to the other element or layer, or an intervening third element(s) or layer(s) may be present. In contrast, when an element or layer is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element of layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. As used herein, the use of the term “may,” when describing embodiments of the present disclosure, refers to “one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.”

Like reference numerals in the drawings refer to like elements. In addition, in the drawings, the thickness(es), the ratio(s), and the dimension(s) of the element(s) and layer(s) may be exaggerated for effective description of the technical contents.

The term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated items.

Terms such as first, second, and the like may be used to describe various suitable components, but these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For instance, a first component may be referred to as a second component, or similarly, a second component may be referred to as a first component, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

In addition, terms such as “under,” “lower,” “on,” and “upper” are used for explaining associations and/or relations (e.g., spatial relations) of items illustrated in the drawings. It will be understood that these spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation(s) depicted in the figures. As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” “approximately,” and similar terms are used as terms of approximation and not as terms of degree, and are intended to account for the inherent deviations in measured or calculated values that would be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art.

It will be further understood that the terms “includes” and “including,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof.

FIG.1is a perspective view of a display device (electronic device) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG.1, the display device1000may be a device activated according to an electrical signal. For example, the display device1000may be a mobile phone, a tablet PC, a vehicle navigator, a game device, or a wearable device, but is not limited thereto. InFIG.1, the display device1000is illustrated as a mobile phone as an example.

The display device1000may be defined with (e.g., may have) a display area1000A and a non-display area1000NA. The non-display area1000NA may be a surrounding area of the display area1000A.

The display device1000may display an image through the display area1000A. The display area1000A may include a first display surface1000MA, which is parallel (e.g., substantially parallel) to a surface defined by a first direction DR1and a second direction DR2, and a second display surface1000BA bent from the first display surface1000MA.

The second display surface1000BA may be provided to be bent from one side of the first display surface1000MA. In some embodiments, the second display surface1000BA may be provided in plural. In this case, the second display surface1000BA may be provided to be bent from at least two sides of the first display surface1000MA. The display area1000A may include one first display surface1000MA and one to four second display surfaces1000BA. However, the shape of the display area1000A is not limited thereto. For example, the display area1000A may also include only the first display surface1000MA.

A thickness direction of the display device1000may be parallel (e.g., substantially parallel) to a third direction DR3that intersects with or crosses the first direction DR1and the second direction DR2. Accordingly, front surfaces (or top surfaces) and rear surfaces (or bottom surfaces) of members composing (e.g., included in) the display device1000may be defined on the basis of the third direction DR3. The phrase, “in a plane view,” “when viewed on a plane” and similar phrases may be defined as being viewed from the third direction DR3of the display device1000.

FIG.2is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG.2, the display device1000may include a base layer100, a display layer200, a sensing layer300, and an antenna layer400.

The base layer100may include a synthetic resin layer. The synthetic resin layer may include (e.g., be) a thermosetting resin. The base layer100may have a multi-layer structure. For example, the base layer100may have a three-layer structure of a synthetic resin layer, an adhesive layer, and a synthetic resin layer. At least one selected from among the synthetic resin layer(s) may include (e.g., be) at least one selected from among a polyimide-based resin, an acrylic-based resin, a methacrylic-based resin, polyisoprene, a vinyl-based resin, an epoxy-based resin, an urethane-based resin, a cellulose-based resin, a siloxane-based resin, a polyamide-based resin, and a perylene-based resin, but is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the base layer100may include a glass substrate, an organic/inorganic composite material substrate, etc.

The display layer200may be disposed on the base layer100. The display layer200may be a component for substantially generating an image. The display layer200may be an emissive display layer. For example, the display layer200may be an organic light emitting display layer, a quantum dot light emitting display layer, or a micro LED light emitting display layer. In some embodiments, the display layer200may be a transmissivity control layer for controlling the transmissivity of light provided from a backlight unit or the outside. For example, the display layer200may include (e.g., be) a liquid crystal molecule.

The sensing layer300may be disposed on the display layer200. The sensing layer300may sense an external input applied from the outside. The external input may be a user input. The user input may include various suitable types (e.g., kinds) of external inputs including a part of the user's body (e.g., a touch from the part of the user's body), light, heat, a pen (e.g., a touch from the pen), pressure, and/or the like.

The sensing layer300may be disposed on the display layer200through a consecutive process (e.g., consecutive manufacturing processes). In this case, the sensing layer300may be directly disposed on the display layer200. To be directly arranged (e.g., directly disposed on) refers to that a third element is not arranged between the sensing layer300and the display layer200. For example, a separate adhesive member may not be arranged between the sensing layer300and the display layer200.

The antenna layer400may be disposed on the sensing layer300. The antenna layer400may transmit, receive, or transmit and receive a radio communication signal, for example, a radio frequency signal. The antenna layer400may be referred to as a radio frequency device. The antenna layer400may include a plurality of antennas (or a plurality of radiation parts), and the plurality of antennas may transmit, receive, or transmit and receive the same frequency band, or different frequency bands.

The antenna layer400may be composed on the sensing layer300through a consecutive process. For example, the antenna layer400may be directly disposed on the sensing layer300. Accordingly, a third element may not be arranged between the antenna layer400and the sensing layer300. According to the present disclosure, the display layer200, the sensing layer300, and the antenna layer400may be composed in a consecutive process, and one or more third elements may not be arranged between the display layer200, the sensing layer300, and the antenna layer400. Accordingly, the transmissivity of the display device100may be improved, and the thin-type display device1000may be implemented.

The antenna layer400may be provided in the display area1000A (seeFIG.1). Even when the display device1000is miniaturized or thinned, or the area of the non-display area1000NA (seeFIG.1) surrounding the display area1000A (seeFIG.1) is reduced, a space in which the antenna layer400is to be arranged may be easily secured (e.g., set) because the area of the display area1000A is already secured (e.g., set).

The display device1000may further include a window. The window may include (e.g., be) an insulation material that is optically transparent. For example, the window may include (e.g., be) glass and/or plastic. The window may have a multilayer structure or a single-layer structure. For example, the window may include a plurality of plastic films bonded with an adhesive, or a glass substrate and a plastic film bonded with an adhesive.

FIG.3Ais a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG.3A, the display layer200may include a circuit layer201, a light emitting element layer202, and an encapsulation layer203. The display layer200may include a plurality of insulation layers, a semiconductor pattern, a conductive pattern, a signal line, and the like. The insulation layers, the semiconductor layer, and the conductive layer may be composed (e.g., may be formed or manufactured) in a manner including coating, deposition, and/or the like. Then, the insulation layers, the semiconductor layer, and the conductive layer may be selectively patterned in a photolithography manner. In these manners, the semiconductor pattern, the conductive pattern, the signal line, and the like are composed, which are included in the circuit layer201or the light emitting element layer202. Then, the encapsulation layer203for covering the light emitting element layer202may be composed.

At least one inorganic layer is composed on the top surface of the base layer100. The inorganic layer may include (e.g., be) at least one selected from among aluminum oxides, titanium oxide, silicon oxide, silicon oxynitride, zirconium oxide, and hafnium oxide. The inorganic layer may be composed with multilayers. The multi-layered inorganic layer may compose (e.g., include) a barrier layer and/or a buffer layer. In the embodiment, the display layer200is illustrated to include a buffer layer BFL.

The buffer layer BFL may enhance the bonding force between the base layer100and the semiconductor pattern. The buffer layer BFL may include (e.g., be) a silicon oxide layer and a silicon nitride layer, and the silicon oxide layer and the silicon nitride layer may be alternately laminated. For example, the buffer layer BFL may include one or more silicon oxide layers and one or more silicon nitride layers, wherein the silicon oxide layers are alternately arranged in the third direction DR3with the silicon nitride layers.

The semiconductor pattern may be disposed on the buffer layer BFL. The semiconductor pattern may include (e.g., be) polysilicon. However, an embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the semiconductor pattern may include (e.g., be) amorphous silicon and/or metal oxides.

FIG.3Aillustrates a portion of the semiconductor pattern, and another semiconductor pattern may be further arranged in another region. The semiconductor pattern may be arrayed in a set rule across pixels. The semiconductor pattern may have different electric properties according to whether it is to be doped or not. For example, the semiconductor pattern may include a plurality of regions having different electric properties depending on how the regions are doped. For example, the electric properties of a region of the plurality of regions may depend on whether the region is doped, the concentration of doping in the region, and the type of doping in the region. The semiconductor pattern may include a doped area or a non-doped area. The doped area may be doped with an N-type dopant or a P-type dopant. A P-type transistor includes a doped area doped with a P-type dopant, and an N-type transistor includes a doped area doped with an N-type dopant.

The doped area has larger conductivity than the non-doped area, and substantially plays a role (e.g., plays a substantial role) of an electrode or a signal line. The non-doped area substantially corresponds to an active area (or channel) of the transistor. For example, a part of the semiconductor pattern may be the active area of the transistor, another part may be the source or the drain, and another part may be a connection electrode or a signal connection line.

Each pixel may have an equivalent circuit including seven transistors, one capacitor, and a light emitting element, and the equivalent circuit of the pixel may be changed in various suitable types (e.g., kinds). However, the equivalent circuit is not limited thereto, and the equivalent circuit according to some embodiments may have any suitable number of transistors, capacitors, light emitting elements, and other electronic components. InFIG.3A, one transistor100PC and one light emitting element100PE included in the pixel are illustrated as an example.

A source S1, an active area A1, and a drain D1of the transistor100PC may be composed from the semiconductor pattern. The source S1and the drain D1may extend from the active area A1in opposite directions from each other in the cross sectional view. InFIG.3A, a portion of a signal connection line SCL composed from the semiconductor pattern is illustrated. The signal connection line SCL may be coupled (e.g., connected) to the drain D1of the transistor100PC on a plane (e.g., in a plan view or along a plane).

A first insulation layer10may be disposed on the buffer layer BFL. The first insulation layer10may commonly overlap the plurality of pixels and cover the semiconductor pattern. The first insulation layer10may include (e.g., be) an inorganic material and/or organic material, and have a single layer or multilayer structure. The first insulation layer10may include (e.g., be) at least one selected from among aluminum oxides, titanium oxide, silicon oxide, silicon oxynitride, zirconium oxide, and hafnium oxide. In the present embodiment, the first insulation layer10may be a silicon oxide layer of a single layer. Not only the first insulation layer10, but also the insulation layer of the circuit layer201, which will be described later, may include (e.g., be) an inorganic material and/or organic material, and may have a single layer or multilayer structure. The inorganic layer may include (e.g., be) at least one selected from among the aforementioned materials, but is not limited thereto.

A gate G1of the transistor100PC may be disposed on the first insulation layer10. The gate G1may be a portion of a metal pattern. The gate G1may overlap the active area A1. The gate G1may function as a mask in a process for doping the semiconductor pattern.

A second insulation layer20may be disposed on the first insulation layer10and may cover the gate G1. The second insulation layer20may commonly overlap the pixels. The second insulation layer20may include (e.g., be) an inorganic material and/or organic material, and may have a single layer or multilayer structure. In the present embodiment, the second insulation layer20may be a silicon oxide layer of a single layer.

A third insulation layer30may be disposed on the second insulation layer20, and the third insulation layer30in the present embodiment may be a single silicon oxide layer. A first connection electrode CNE1may be disposed on the third insulation layer30. The first connection electrode CNE1may be coupled (e.g., connected) to a signal connection line SCL through a contact hole CNT-1penetrating through the first to third insulation layers10,20, and30.

A fourth insulation layer40may be disposed on the third insulation layer30. The fourth insulation layer40may be a single silicon oxide layer. A fifth insulation layer50may be disposed on the fourth insulation layer40. The fifth insulation layer50may be an organic layer.

A second connection electrode CNE2may be disposed on the fifth insulation layer50. The second connection electrode CNE2may be coupled (e.g., connected) to the first connection electrode CNE1through a contact hole CNT-2penetrating through the fourth insulation layer40and the fifth insulation layer50.

A sixth insulation layer60may be disposed on the fifth insulation layer50and cover the second connection electrode CNE2. The sixth insulation layer60may be an organic layer.

The light emitting element layer202may include the light emitting element100PE and may be disposed on the circuit layer201. The light emitting element100PE may include a first electrode AE, an emissive layer EL, and a second electrode CE.

The first electrode AE may be disposed on the sixth insulation layer60. The first electrode AE is coupled (e.g., connected) to the second connection electrode CNE2through a contact hole CNT-3penetrating through the sixth insulation layer60.

A pixel definition layer70may be disposed on the sixth insulation layer60and cover a portion of the first electrode AE (e.g., a side or edge of the first electrode AE). The pixel definition layer70is defined with an opening part70-OP. The opening part70-OP of the pixel definition layer70exposes at least a portion of the first electrode AE (e.g., a center portion of the first electrode AE).

As shown inFIG.3A, the display layer200may be defined with a light emitting area PXA and a surrounding area NPXA adjacent to the light emitting area PXA. In the present embodiment, the light emitting area PXA is defined in correspondence to a partial area of the first electrode AE exposed by the opening part70-OP. For example, the light emitting area PXA may overlap (e.g., partially or entirely overlap) the opening part70-OP in a plan view (e.g., in a thickness direction of the display device1000). The light emitting area PXA may be provided in plural, and the surrounding area NPXA may surround (e.g., partially or entirely surround) the plurality of light emitting areas PXA. Both the light emitting area PXA and the surrounding area NPXA may be defined in the display area1000A of the display device1000.

The emissive layer EL may be disposed on the first electrode AE. The emissive layer EL may be disposed on an area corresponding to the opening part70-OP. For example, the emissive layer EL may be separately disposed in each of the plurality of pixels. When the emissive layers EL are separately composed in the respective pixels, each emissive layer EL may emit light of one color from among blue, red, and green. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the emissive layer EL may be coupled (e.g., connected) to the pixels and commonly provided. In this case, the emissive layer EL may provide blue light, or white light.

The second electrode CE may be disposed on the emissive layer EL. The second electrode CE may have an integrated shape, and be commonly arranged to the plurality of pixels.

A hole control layer may be arranged between the first electrode AE and the emissive layer EL. The hole control layer may be commonly disposed on the light emitting area PXA and the surrounding area NPXA. The hole control layer may include a hole transport layer, and may further include a hole injection layer. An electron control layer may be arranged between the emissive layer EL and the second electrode CE. The electron control layer may include an electron transport layer, and may further include an electron injection layer. The hole control layer and the electron control layer may be commonly provided to the plurality of pixels utilizing (e.g., using) an open mask.

The encapsulation layer203may be disposed on the light emitting element layer202. The encapsulation layer203may include an inorganic layer, an organic layer, and an inorganic layer that are sequentially laminated, but the layers providing the encapsulation layer203are not limited thereto. The inorganic layers may protect the light emitting element layer202from moisture and/or oxygen, and the organic layer may protect the light emitting element layer202from a foreign matter such as a dust particle. The inorganic layers may include a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, and/or an aluminum oxide layer, but is not limited thereto. The organic layer may include an acrylic-based inorganic layer, but is not limited thereto.

The sensing layer300may include a base insulation layer301, a first sensing conductive layer302, a sensing insulation layer303, a second sensing conductive layer304, and a cover insulation layer305.

The base insulation layer301may be an inorganic layer including (e.g., being) at least one selected from among silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, and silicon oxide. In some embodiments, the base insulation layer301may be an organic layer including (e.g., being) an epoxy resin, an acrylic resin, and/or an imide-based resin. The base insulation layer301may have a single layer structure, or a multilayer structure laminated along the third direction DR3.

Each of the first sensing conductive layer302and the second sensing conductive layer304may have a single-layer structure or a multilayer structure laminated along the third direction DR3.

The conductive layer of the single layer structure may include a metal layer and/or a transparent conductive layer. The metal layer may include (e.g., be) molybdenum, silver, titanium, copper, aluminum, and an alloy thereof. The transparent conductive layer may include (e.g., be) a transparent conductive oxide such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), and/or indium zinc tin oxide (IZTO). In some embodiments, the transparent conductive layer may include (e.g., be) a conductive polymer such as PEDOT, a metal nano-wire, or graphene.

The conductive layer of the multilayer structure may include metal layers. For example, the conductive layer of the multilayer structure may have a three-layer structure of titanium/aluminum/titanium. The conductive layer of the multi-layered structure may include at least one metal layer and at least one transparent conductive layer.

The sensing layer300may acquire information about an external input through a change in mutual capacitance, or a change in self-capacitance. For example, the sensing layer300may include a plurality of sensing electrodes310and320(seeFIG.4). Each of the plurality of sensing electrodes310and320may be composed of patterns included in the first sensing conductive layer302and/or the second sensing conductive layer304.

At least one selected from among the sensing insulation layer303and the cover insulation layer305may include an inorganic film. The inorganic film may include (e.g., be) at least one selected from among aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, silicon oxide, silicon oxynitride, zirconium oxide, and hafnium oxide.

In some embodiments, at least one selected from among the sensing insulation layer303and the cover insulation layer305may include an organic film. The organic film may include (e.g., be) at least one selected from among an acrylic-based resin, a methacrylic-based resin, polyisoprene, a vinyl-based resin, an epoxy-based resin, an urethane-based resin, a cellulose-based resin, a siloxane-based resin, a polyimide-based resin, a polyamide resin, and a parylene-based resin.

The antenna layer400may include an antenna conductive layer401and an antenna insulation layer402.

The antenna conductive layer401may have a single layer structure, or a multilayer structure laminated along the third direction DR3. The antenna conductive layer401may include (e.g., be) the same material as the first sensing conductive layer302or the second sensing conductive layer304. For example, the antenna conductive layer401may include (e.g., be) a material selected from among the materials that the first sensing conductive layer302or the second sensing conductive layer304may include.

The antenna conductive layer401may include a plurality of antennas410(seeFIG.4). Accordingly, the plurality of antennas410may be directly disposed on the cover insulation layer305. The bottom surface of the plurality of antennas410may directly contact the top surface of the cover insulation layer305, or the top surface of the sensing layer300.

The thickness401tof the antenna conductive layer401may be greater than each of those (e.g., than each of the respective thicknesses) of the first sensing conductive layer302and the second sensing conductive layer304. For example, the thickness401tof the antenna conductive layer401may be 1.3 times to double (2.0 times) the thickness302tof the first sensing conductive layer302. For example, the thickness302tof the first sensing conductive layer302may be about 2500 Å to about 3000 Å, and the thickness401tof the antenna conductive layer401may be about 4000 Å to 6000 Å. As used herein, the term Å may refer to a distance equal to 10−10meters. Accordingly, under a condition that the areas (e.g., planar areas) are the same (e.g., that the planar areas of the antenna conductive layer401and the first sensing conductive layer302are the same) in a plan view (e.g., when viewed on a plane), the resistance of the antenna conductive layer401may be smaller than that of the first sensing conductive layer302.

The antenna insulation layer402may cover the antenna conductive layer401and may provide a planar surface to the top surface (e.g., top surface of the antenna insulation layer402or of the antenna layer400). The antenna insulation layer402may include an organic film. The organic film may include at least one selected from among an acrylic-based resin, a methacrylic-based resin, polyisoprene, a vinyl-based resin, an epoxy-based resin, a urethane-based resin, a cellulose-based resin, a siloxane-based resin, a polyimide-based resin, a polyamide resin, and a parylene-based resin.

Openings300opand400opmay be defined in the first sensing conductive layer302, the second sensing conductive layer304, and the antenna conductive layer401. For example, the openings300opprovided to (e.g., in) the second sensing conductive layer304may be openings provided to the plurality of sensing electrodes310and320(seeFIG.4), and the openings400opprovided to the antenna conductive layer401may be openings provided to the plurality of antennas410(seeFIG.4).

When viewed from the thickness direction (e.g., when viewed in a plan view) of the display layer200, for example, from the third direction DR3, the openings300opand400opmay surround (e.g., overlap) the light emitting area PXA. For example, in some embodiments, the openings300opand400opmay overlap the light emitting area PXA in a plan view and may overlap at least a part of the surrounding area NPXA. For example, when viewed from the thickness direction (e.g., the third direction DR3) of the display layer200, the conductive patterns respectively included in the first sensing conductive layer302, the second sensing conductive layer304, and the antenna conductive layer401may overlap the surrounding area NPXA, and may be separated (e.g., spaced apart) from the light emitting area PXA.

FIG.3Bis a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG.3B, the display device1000-1may include the base layer100, the display layer200, a sensing layer300-1, and the antenna layer400.

The sensing layer300-1may include the base insulation layer301, the first sensing conductive layer302, the sensing insulation layer303, the second sensing conductive layer304, the cover insulation layer305, and a planarization insulation layer306.

The planarization insulation layer306may cover the cover insulation layer305, and may provide a planar surface to the top surface (e.g., top surface of the planarization insulation layer306or of the sensing layer300-1). The planarization insulation layer306may include an organic film.

The antenna conductive layer401may include a plurality of antennas410(seeFIG.4). Accordingly, the plurality of antennas410may be directly disposed on the planarization insulation layer306. The bottom surface of the plurality of antennas410may directly contact the top surface of the planarization insulation layer306, or the top surface of the sensing layer300-1.

FIG.4is a plan view illustrating some components of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIGS.3A and4, a first base area101, a second base area102, and a third base area103may be defined in the base layer100. The first base area101may be an area overlapping the light emitting area PXA and the surrounding area NPXA illustrated inFIG.3A. In addition, the first base area101may be an area overlapping the display area1000A of the display device1000(seeFIG.1).

The second base area102may extend from a first edge portion101e1of the first base area101. The third base area103may extend from the second base area102. For example, the second base area102may be between the first base area101and the third base area103.

The second base area102may be an area bent towards the rear surface of the first base area101in a process for assembling the display device1000(seeFIG.1) later. Accordingly, the third base area103may be disposed on (e.g., may overlap in the third direction DR3or in the plan view) the rear surface of the first base area101in the display device1000.

The sensing layer300may include a plurality of first sensing electrodes310(hereinafter, first sensing electrodes), a plurality of second sensing electrodes320(hereinafter, second sensing electrodes), and a plurality of sensing pads340(hereinafter, sensing pads).

The first sensing electrodes310and the second sensing electrodes320may be arranged in the display area1000A. The sensing layer300may acquire information about an external input through a change in the mutual capacitance between the first sensing electrodes310and the second sensing electrodes320.

The first sensing electrodes310may be arrayed separately in the first direction DR1. For example, the first sensing electrodes310may be arranged with each other along the first direction DR1. Each of the first sensing electrodes310may extend along the second direction DR2. The second sensing electrodes320may be arrayed separately in the second direction DR2. For example, the second sensing electrodes320may be arranged with each other along the second direction DR2. Each of the second sensing electrodes320may extend along the first direction DR1.

Each of the first sensing electrodes310may include a plurality of sensing patterns311and a bridge pattern312electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to two adjacent sensing patterns311among the plurality of sensing patterns311. For example, the bridge pattern312of a first sensing electrode310among the first sensing electrodes310may electrically couple (e.g., electrically connect) each pair of two adjacent sensing patterns311of the first sensing electrode310.

The plurality of sensing patterns311and the bridge pattern312may be disposed on different layers. For example, when the bridge pattern312is included in the first sensing conductive layer302, the plurality of sensing patterns311may be included in the second sensing conductive layer304. In some embodiments, when the bridge pattern312is included in the second sensing conductive layer304, the plurality of sensing patterns311may be included in the first sensing conductive layer302.

Each of the second sensing electrodes320may include a plurality of first portions321and a second portion322defined between adjacent first portions321among the plurality of first portions321. The first portions321may be referred to as sensing portions, and the second portion322may be referred to as a connection portion or a crossing portion.

The first portions321and the second portion322may be coupled (e.g., connected) to each other to have an integrated shape. For example, the second portion322of a second sensing electrode320among the second sensing electrodes320may electrically couple (e.g., electrically connect) each pair of two adjacent first portions321of the second sensing electrode320. Accordingly, the second portion322may be defined as a portion crossing the bridge pattern312in each of the second sensing electrodes320. The first portions321and the second portion322may be disposed on the same layer, and the first portions321and the second portion322may be disposed on the same layer as the plurality of sensing patterns311.

Each of the first sensing electrodes310and the second sensing electrodes320may be electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to at least one among sensing wirings330. For example, one first sensing electrode310may be coupled (e.g., connected) to two sensing wirings330. One sensing wiring330may be electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to one end of the first sensing electrode310, and another sensing wiring330may be electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to the other end of the first sensing electrode310. One sensing wiring330may be electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to one second sensing electrode320(e.g., to one end of the second sensing electrode320). However, the coupling relationships (e.g., connection relationships) of the sensing wirings330with respect to the first sensing electrodes310and the second sensing electrodes320are not limited to the illustrated examples.

The sensing pads340may be respectively electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to the sensing wirings330. The sensing pads340may be disposed on the third base area103.

The antenna layer400may include a plurality of antennas410(hereinafter, antennas), a plurality of antenna wirings420(hereinafter, antenna wirings), and a plurality of antenna pads430(hereinafter, antenna pads). AlthoughFIG.4illustrates four antennas410as an example, the number of antennas included in the display device1000(seeFIG.1) is not limited thereto.

Each of the antennas410may be included in the antenna conductive layer401. The antennas410may be arranged in the display area1000A. Accordingly, each of the antennas410may overlap a portion of the first sensing electrodes310and/or a portion of the second sensing electrodes320.

The antenna wirings420may be respectively electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to the antennas410. The antenna pads430may be respectively electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to the antenna wirings420. The antenna pads430may be disposed on the third base area103.

Driving chip pads210may be further disposed on the third base area103. A driving chip may be electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to the driving chip pads210. For example, the driving chip may be mounted on the base layer100. However, this is an example, and the driving chip pads210may be omitted according to some embodiments. In this case, pads to which a film with the driving chip mounted thereon is electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) may be further provided.

FIG.5is a plan view of an antenna according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIGS.3A,4, and5, one antenna410ais enlarged and illustrated inFIG.5. The antenna410amay include a first pattern411aand a second pattern412a. The first pattern411ais a component to which a signal is input (or delivered), and the second pattern412amay be a grounded component. The first pattern411aand the second pattern412amay contain (e.g., include or be) the same material, and may be disposed on the same layer. For example, each of the first pattern411aand the second pattern412amay be a component included in the antenna conductive layer401(seeFIG.3A). For example, the antenna410amay be a coplanar waveguide (CPW) feeding slot antenna for which feeding is performed on the same plane.

The second pattern412amay be separated from the first pattern411a. For example, the second pattern412amay be spaced apart from the first pattern411ain a plan view. A slot may be defined between the first pattern411aand the second pattern412a. A signal provided to the antenna410amay be radiated to the outside through the slot. The slot may include a first slot portion413s1and a second slot portion413s2. Each of the first slot portion413s1and the second slot portion413s2may be defined as a portion extending along the first direction DR1.

One of conductive layers arranged under the first pattern411aand the second pattern412amay function as a lower ground layer of the antenna410a. The lower ground layer may play a role of shielding a signal, which is radiated between (and/or from both) the first pattern411aand the second pattern412a, from facing the display layer200. For example, the lower ground layer may shield the display layer200from the signal. The second pattern412amay not contact the lower ground layer. For example, the second electrode CE included in the display layer200may function as the lower ground layer, but is not particularly limited thereto. The distance (e.g., the distance along the third direction DR3) between the lower ground layer and the antenna410amay be about 0.01 mm. As used herein, the term mm may refer to a distance of 10−3meters. For example, the distance between the second electrode CE and the antenna conductive layer401may be about 0.01 mm, but is not limited thereto.

Each of the first pattern411aand the second pattern412amay have a mesh structure (e.g., a structure having a mesh shape). Accordingly, the opening400opmay be defined in each of the first pattern411aand the second pattern412a. For example, the opening400opmay be defined in an area overlapping the light emitting area PXA, and each of the first pattern411aand the second pattern412amay overlap the surrounding area NPXA.

The first pattern411amay include a first pattern portion411-1and a second pattern portion411-2. The first pattern portion411-1extends along the first direction DR1, and the second pattern portion411-2may extend from the first pattern portion411-1along the second direction DR2. The second pattern portion411-2may be a portion coupled (e.g., connected) to the antenna wiring420and may be referred to as a feeding line. The first pattern portion411-1may be a portion extending from the second pattern portion411-2and may be referred to as a stub.

FIG.6is a plan view of an antenna according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIGS.3A,4, and6, one antenna410bis enlarged and illustrated inFIG.6. The antenna410bmay include a first pattern411b, a second pattern412b, and a third pattern413b. Each of the first pattern411b, the second pattern412b, and the third pattern413bmay have a mesh structure (e.g., a structure having a mesh shape).

The first pattern411bmay include a first pattern portion411-1band a second pattern portion411-2b. The first pattern portion411-1bextends along the first direction DR1, and the second pattern portion411-2bmay extend from the first pattern portion411-1balong the second direction DR2.

The third pattern413bmay be arranged between the first pattern411band the second pattern412b. For example, the third pattern413bmay be arranged between the first pattern portion411-1band the second pattern412b. The third pattern413bmay extend along the first direction DR1.

A slot may be defined between the first pattern411b, the second pattern412b, and the third pattern413b. For example, the first pattern411b, the second pattern412b, and the third pattern413bmay be spaced apart from each other in a plan view by the slot. A signal provided to the antenna410bmay be radiated to the outside through the slot. The slot may include a first slot portion413s1b, a second slot portion413s2b, and a third slot portion413s3b. Each of the first slot portion413s1b, the second slot portion413s2b, and the third slot portion413s3bmay be extend along the first direction DR1.

The shape of the antenna410bmay be designed on the basis of set values. For example, the shape of the antenna410bmay be based on set values of dimensions of the antenna410band of the components of the antenna410b(e.g., the first pattern411b, the second pattern412b, the third pattern413b, the slot, etc.). The resonant frequency of the antenna410band the impedance of the antenna410bmay be adjusted by controlling the set values.

First to ninth values P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6, P7, P8, and P9 are indicated inFIG.6. The first value P1 is the width in the first direction DR1of the antenna410b, and the second value P2 is the length in the second direction DR2of the antenna410b. The first value P1 may be designed to be about 4.8 mm, and the second value P2 may be designed to be about 7.465 mm.

The third value P3 may be the length in the second direction DR2of the second pattern portion411-2b, the fourth value P4 is the width in the first direction DR1of the second pattern portion411-2b, and the fifth value P5 is the interval between the second pattern portion411-2band the second pattern412b. The third value P3 may be designed to be about 1.86 mm, the fourth value P4 may be designed to be about 0.025 mm, and the fifth value P5 may be designed to be about 0.02 mm.

The sixth value P6 is the width in the second direction DR2of each of the third pattern413band the first pattern portion411-1b, and the seventh value P7 is the length in the first direction DR1of each of the third pattern413band the first pattern portion411-1b. For example, the third pattern413bmay have the same (e.g., substantially the same) width and length as the first pattern portion411-1b. The eighth value P8 is a minimum width in the second direction DR2of the slot, and the ninth value P9 is a minimum width in the first direction DR1of the slot. For example, the eighth value P8 may be a distance (e.g., a distance along the second direction DR2) between the first pattern portion411-1band the third pattern413b, and the ninth value P9 may be a distance (e.g., a distance along the first direction DR1) between the second pattern412band one or both of the first pattern portion411-1band the third pattern413b. The sixth value P6 may be designed to be about 0.025 mm, the seventh value P7 may be designed to be about 2.8 mm, and each of the eighth value P8 and the ninth value P9 may be designed to be about 0.03 mm.

The permittivity between the antenna410band the lower ground layer is εr=3.13, tan δ=0.001, and the distance between the antenna410band the lower ground layer may be designed to be about 0.01 mm.

FIG.7shows graphs representing reflection coefficients according to a frequency.

Referring toFIGS.5,6, and7, a first graph GP1 represents a reflection coefficient of the antenna410ashown inFIG.5according to a frequency, and a second graph GP2 represents a reflection coefficient of the antenna410bshown inFIG.6according to a frequency.

The shape of the first pattern411aof the antenna410amay be the same as the shape of the first pattern411bof the antenna410b. As the antenna410bfurther includes the third pattern413b, the third slot portion413s3bmay be further defined in comparison to the antenna410a. For example, the antenna410bmay include the first, second, and third slot portions413s1b,413s2b, and413s3bin comparison to the antenna410a, which may include the first and second slot portions413s1and413s2.

The impedance of the entire antenna may be changed according to the number of slot portions in the antenna. Typically, when the reflection coefficient is equal to or smaller than about −10 dB (negative 10 dB), the reflection is considered to scarcely occur. For the second graph GP2, the reflection coefficient is lower than that of the first graph GP1. Accordingly, the impedance is better matched in the antenna410bthan in the antenna410a. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the number of the slot portions is adjusted to easily implement the impedance matching in the antenna.

FIG.8Aillustrates a radiation pattern of the antenna illustrated inFIG.5.FIG.8Billustrates a radiation pattern of the antenna illustrated inFIG.6.FIGS.8A and8Brespectively illustrate irradiation patterns of the antennas410aand410bat the same frequency.

Referring toFIGS.5,6,8A, and8B, the irradiation gain (seeFIG.8B) of the antenna410bat zero degrees is higher than that (seeFIG.8A) of the antenna410aat zero degrees. For example, the irradiation gain may be controlled according to (e.g., may be determined by or may depend on) the shapes and number of the slot portions provided to each of the antennas410aand410b. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the number of the slot portions is adjusted (e.g., set) to easily control the irradiation gain of the antenna.

FIG.9is a plan view of an antenna according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG.10shows graphs representing reflection coefficients according to a frequency.

Referring toFIGS.3A,4, and9, one antenna410cis enlarged and illustrated inFIG.9. The antenna410cmay include a first pattern411c, a second pattern412c, and a third pattern413c. Each of the first pattern411c, the second pattern412c, and the third pattern413cmay have a mesh structure (e.g., a structure having a mesh shape).

The first pattern411cmay include a first pattern portion411-1cand a second pattern portion411-2c. The first pattern portion411-1cextends along the first direction DR1, and the second pattern portion411-2cmay extend from the first pattern portion411-1calong the second direction DR2.

A first area411A1and a second area411A2may be defined in the first pattern portion411-1c. The second area411A2may be separated from (e.g., spaced apart from) the first area411A1in the first direction DR1. While the second pattern portion411-2billustrated inFIG.6extends from the first area411A1of the first pattern portion411-1b(seeFIG.6), the second pattern portion411-2cillustrated inFIG.9may extend from the second area411A2of the first pattern portion411-1c.

When the position of the second pattern portion411-2cis changed with respect to the first pattern portion411-1c(e.g., with respect to where along the second direction DR2, the second pattern portion411-2cbranches off from the first pattern portion411-1c), the reflection coefficient and the resonant frequency of the antenna410cmay be changed. Description about the foregoing will be provided with reference toFIG.10. Accordingly, the position of the second pattern portion411-2cwith respect to the first pattern portion411-1cmay be controlled to easily adjust the resonant frequency.

The resonant frequency may be changed according to the distance DT (e.g., the distance along the first direction DR1) between the center CTP1 of the first pattern portion411-1cand the center CTP2 of the second pattern portion411-2c. The center CTP1 may be the center of the first pattern portion411-1cin the first direction DR1, and the center CTP2 may be the center of the second pattern portion411-2cin the first direction DR1.

Referring toFIG.10, a first graph GPa is a graph showing the reflection coefficient according to a frequency when the distance DT is about 0.8 mm, a second graph GPb is a graph showing the reflection coefficient according to a frequency when the distance DT is about 1.3 mm, and a third graph GPc is a graph showing the reflection coefficient according to a frequency when the distance DT is about 1.49 mm. For example, it may be confirmed, through the graph ofFIG.10, that the resonant frequency is changed according to the position of the second pattern portion411-2cwith respect to the first pattern portion411-1c.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the antennas410illustrated inFIG.4may include (e.g., be) any one among the antennas410a,410b, and410cillustrated inFIGS.5,6, and9. For example, the antennas410illustrated inFIG.4may have different shapes (e.g., designs or structures), and the shape of each antenna410may be according to one of the antennas410a,410b, and410cillustrated inFIGS.5,6, and9. When the antennas410(seeFIG.4) include antennas of various suitable shapes, the display device1000(seeFIG.1) becomes communicable in various suitable frequency bands.

For example, the antennas410may have the shape of the antenna410billustrated inFIG.6. In some embodiments, some antennas410(seeFIG.4) may have the shape of the antenna410billustrated inFIG.6, and the others may have the shape of the antenna410cillustrated inFIG.9. In some embodiments, some antennas410may have the shape of the antenna410aillustrated inFIG.5, others may have the shape of the antenna410billustrated inFIG.6, and the others may have the shape of the antenna410cillustrated inFIG.9.

FIG.11is a cross-sectional view illustrating a cross section cut along line I-I′ ofFIG.5.

Referring toFIG.11, the first pattern411aand the second pattern412amay be disposed on the same layer. For example, the first pattern411aand the second pattern412amay be disposed on the top surface300usof the sensing layer300.

FIG.12Ais a plan view illustrating a portion of an antenna layer.FIG.12Bis a cross-sectional view illustrating a cross section cut along line II-II′ ofFIG.12A.

Referring toFIGS.12A and12B, the antenna layer400-1may further include a dummy pattern414. The dummy pattern414may be disposed in the display area1000A (seeFIG.4) in which the antenna410bis not disposed. Accordingly, the difference in reflection ratio between the area in which the antenna410bis disposed and the area in which the antenna410bis not disposed may be reduced. Accordingly, the antenna410bmay be prevented from being viewed from the outside, or the visibility of the antenna410bfrom the outside may be reduced.

The dummy pattern414may have a mesh structure (e.g., a structure having a mesh shape). Accordingly, an opening414opprovided in the dummy pattern414may overlap the light emitting area PXA (seeFIG.3A), and the dummy pattern414may be disposed in the surrounding area NPXA (seeFIG.3A). For example, the dummy pattern414may be separated from (e.g., may not overlap or may be spaced apart from) the light emitting area PXA.

The antenna410band the dummy pattern414may be disposed on the same layer. For example, the first pattern411b, the second pattern412b, and the third pattern413bof the antenna410b, and the dummy pattern414may be disposed on the top surface300usof the sensing layer300.

FIG.13is a cross-sectional view illustrating a cross section cut along III-III′ ofFIG.4.FIG.14is an enlarged plan view of area AA′ illustrated inFIG.4.

Referring toFIG.13, an antenna wiring420may be electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to an extension wiring421disposed under the antenna wiring420in the first base area101. For example, the antenna wiring420may contact (e.g., directly or physically contact) a connection wiring420cdisposed under the antenna wiring420, and the connection wiring420cmay contact (e.g., directly or physically contact) the extension wiring421. Accordingly, the antenna wiring420may be electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to the extension wiring421through the connection wiring420c.

The extension wiring421may be a wiring disposed on the same layer as the second connection electrode CNE2(seeFIG.3A), and/or the connection wiring420cmay be a component included in the second sensing conductive layer304(seeFIG.3A).

The extension wiring421may extend from the first base area101towards the third base area103via the second base area102. For example, the extension wiring421may extend from the first base area101, through the second base area102, and to the third base area103. The second base area102may be a bending area to be bent. Accordingly, a portion of the extension wiring421disposed in the second base area102may be provided with a hole421h. As the hole421his provided, the stress applied to the extension wiring421becomes reduced, and a probability that a crack occurs in the extension wiring421may be reduced. For example, the hole421hin the extension wiring421may reduce the stress applied to the extension wiring421when the second base area102is bent compared to when the extension wiring421does not have the hole421h. In addition, the pixel definition layer70, which overlaps the second base area102, may be further provided thereon with a protection layer for protecting the bending area.

FIG.15is a cross-sectional view illustrating a cross section cut along line IV-IV′ ofFIG.4.

Referring toFIGS.3A,4, and15, one sensing wiring330and one antenna wiring420are illustrated. The sensing wiring330may be configured with a plurality of conductive layers, and the antenna wiring420may be configured with a single conductive layer. The sensing wiring330and the antenna wiring420may be disposed on different layers. For example, the single conductive layer of the antenna wiring420may be on (e.g., above) the plurality of conductive layers of the sensing wiring330. Accordingly, even when the sensing wiring330and the antenna wiring420cross each other, the sensing wiring330and the antenna wiring420may be insulated from each other.

The sensing wiring330may include a first sensing wiring pattern331and a second sensing wiring pattern332. The first sensing wiring pattern331may be a component included in the first sensing conductive layer302, and the second sensing wiring pattern332may be a component included in the second sensing conductive layer304. The antenna wiring420may be included in the antenna conductive layer401.

FIG.16is a cross-sectional view illustrating a cross section cut along line V-V′ inFIG.4.FIG.17is a cross-sectional view illustrating a cross section cut along line VI-VI′ ofFIG.4.

FIG.16is a cross-sectional view in which one driving chip pad210is cut, andFIG.17is a cross-sectional view in which one antenna pad430is cut.

The one driving chip pad210may include at least four conductive patterns, namely, first, second, third, and fourth conductive patterns211,212,213, and214. The one antenna pad430may include at least three conductive patterns, namely, first, second, and third conductive patterns431,432, and433.

The first conductive pattern211may be disposed on the same layer as the gate G1(seeFIG.3A) and may be a pattern including (e.g., being) the same material as the gate G1. The second conductive pattern212and the first conductive pattern431may be disposed on the same layer as the first connection electrode CNE1(seeFIG.3A) or the second connection electrode CNE2(seeFIG.3A) and may include (e.g., be) the same material as the first connection electrode CNE1or the second connection electrode CNE2. The third conductive pattern213and the second conductive pattern432may be components included in the second sensing conductive layer304(seeFIG.3A). The fourth conductive pattern214and the third conductive pattern433may be included in the antenna conductive layer401(seeFIG.3A).

FIG.18is a plan view illustrating some components of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG.18, the base layer100amay be defined with the first base area101, the second base area102, the third base area103, a fourth base area104, and a fifth base area105. The first base area101may be an area overlapping the light emitting area PXA and the surrounding area NPXA.

The second base area102may extend from a first edge portion101e1of the first base area101. The third base area103may extend from the second base area102. The fourth base area104may extend from a second edge portion101e2of the first base area101. The fifth base area105may extend from the fourth base area104. For example, the fourth base area104may be between the first base area101and the fifth base area105(in the second direction DR2).

The second base area102and the fourth base area104may be respectively referred to as bending areas, which may be bent towards the rear surface of the first base area101in an assembly process of the display device1000(seeFIG.1).

FIG.18illustrates that the first edge portion101e1and the second edge portion101e2extend along the first direction DR1, and are separated in the second direction DR2as an example, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the first edge portion101e1may be an edge of the first base area101extending along the first direction DR1, and the second edge portion101e2may be an edge of the first base area101extending along the second direction DR2.

The plurality of antennas410a, the plurality of antenna wirings420a, and the plurality of antenna pads430amay be disposed on the base layer100a.

The antenna wirings420amay be respectively electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to the antennas410a. The antenna pads430amay be respectively electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to the antenna wirings420a. The antenna pads430amay be disposed on the fifth base area105. Accordingly, the antenna pads430aand the sensing pads340may be disposed on different base areas. For example, as an area in which the antenna pads430aare to be disposed is provided separately from an area in which the sensing pads340are to be disposed, the processing latitude may be further enhanced.

FIG.19is a plan view illustrating some components of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG.19, the plurality of antennas410b, the plurality of antenna wirings420b, and the plurality of antenna pads430bmay be disposed on the base layer100a. The number of the plurality of antennas410bmay be greater than the number of the plurality of antennas410aillustrated inFIG.18.

The antennas410bmay be disposed in the display area1000A, and provided adjacently to the four sides of the display area1000A. However, the foregoing is an example, and the antennas410bmay be provided adjacently to only two sides, or only three sides of the display area1000A.

FIG.20is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG.20, the display device1000-2may include the base layer100, the display layer200, and an input layer500. The input layer500may be directly disposed on the display layer200. For example, the input layer500may be disposed on the display layer200through a consecutive process. Because a separate adhesive member is not arranged between the input layer500and the display layer200, the transmissivity of the display device1000-2may be improved, and the display device1000-2of a thin-type (e.g., a relatively thin display device) may be implemented.

The input layer500may be a layer in which an external input applied from the outside is sensed, and a radio frequency signal is transmitted, received, or transmitted and received. The input layer500may include both a sensing layer300-2and an antenna layer400-2.

FIG.21is a plan view illustrating some components of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG.22is a schematic cross-sectional view of an input layer illustrated inFIG.20.

Referring toFIGS.20,21, and22, the input layer500may include a first insulation layer501, a first conductive layer502, a second insulation layer503, a second conductive layer504, and a third insulation layer505. The first insulation layer501may correspond to the base insulation layer301explained with respect toFIG.3A, the first conductive layer502may correspond to the first sensing conductive layer302explained with respect toFIG.3A, the second conductive layer504may correspond to the second sensing conductive layer304explained with respect toFIG.3A, and the third insulation layer505may correspond to the cover insulation layer305explained with respect toFIG.3A. In some embodiments, the second insulation layer503may correspond to the sensing insulation layer303explained with respect toFIG.3A

The input layer500may include both the sensing layer300-2and the antenna layer400-2. The sensing layer300-2may include a plurality of first sensing electrodes310-2(hereinafter, first sensing electrodes), a plurality of second sensing electrodes320-2(hereinafter, second sensing electrodes), and a plurality of sensing pads340-2(hereinafter, sensing pads).

Each of the first sensing electrodes310-2may include a plurality of sensing patterns311-2and a bridge pattern312-2electrically coupled (e.g., electrically connected) to two adjacent sensing patterns311-2among the plurality of sensing patterns311-2.

The plurality of sensing patterns311-2and the bridge pattern312-2may be disposed on different layers. For example, when the bridge pattern312-2is included in the second conductive layer504, the plurality of sensing patterns311-2may be included in the first conductive layer502.

Each of the second sensing electrodes320-2may include a plurality of first portions321-2and a second portion322-2defined between adjacent first portions321-2among the plurality of first portions321-2. The first portions321-2may be referred to as sensing portions, and the second portion322-2may be referred to as a connection portion or a crossing portion.

The first portions321-2and the second portion322-2may be coupled (e.g., connected) to each other to have an integrated shape. Accordingly, the second portion322-2may be defined as a portion crossing the bridge pattern312-2in each of the second sensing electrodes320-2. The first portions321-2and the second portion322-2may be disposed on the same layer as the sensing patterns311-2.

FIG.23is a plan view of the first conductive layer502(seeFIG.22) corresponding to area BB′ ofFIG.21. Referring toFIG.23, the first portions321-2and the second portion322-2may be disposed on the same layer as the plurality of sensing patterns311-2.

Referring toFIGS.21and22again, the antenna layer400-2may include a plurality of antennas410-2(hereinafter, antennas), a plurality of antenna wirings420-2(hereinafter, antenna wirings), and a plurality of antenna pads430-2(hereinafter, antenna pads).

FIG.24is a plan view of the second conductive layer504(seeFIG.22) corresponding to area BB′ ofFIG.21. Referring toFIG.24, the antennas410-2may be included in the second conductive layer504(seeFIG.22). The antennas410-2may be disposed on the same layer as the bridge pattern312-2.

Because the antennas410-2are disposed on the same layer as the bridge pattern312-2, the antennas410-2may be separated from the bridge pattern312-2. Accordingly, when viewed from the third direction DR3, the antennas410-2may not overlap the bridge pattern312-2.

Referring toFIGS.21and22again, the antennas410-2correspond to components for emitting a signal to the outside and for receiving a signal from the outside. Accordingly, the antennas410-2may be disposed on (e.g., included in) the second conductive layer504among the first conductive layer502and the second conductive layer504. The second conductive layer504may be a layer disposed further away from the display layer200than the first conductive layer502is to the display layer200. For example, the first conductive layer502may be closer to the display layer200than the second conductive layer504is to the display layer200. For example, in some embodiments, the first conductive layer502may be between the display layer200and the second conductive layer504. In addition, the second conductive layer504may be a layer adjacent to the outermost surface (e.g., uppermost surface) of the display device1000(seeFIG.1) rather than to the first conductive layer502.

The antennas410-2may be provided thereunder with the plurality of sensing patterns311-2or the first portions321-2. Accordingly, an external input may be sensed even in an area overlapping the antennas410-2.

FIG.25is a plan view of the second conductive layer504corresponding to area BB′ ofFIG.21.

Referring toFIG.25, the second conductive layer504may include the antennas410-2, the bridge pattern312-2, and a dummy pattern440-2. The dummy pattern440-2may have a mesh structure (e.g., a structure having a mesh shape).

The dummy pattern440-2may be disposed in the display area1000A (seeFIG.4) in which the antennas410-2and the bridge pattern312-2are not disposed. Accordingly, the difference in reflection ratio may be reduced between the area in which the antennas410-2and the bridge pattern312-2are disposed and the area in which the antennas410-2and the bridge pattern312-2are not disposed. Accordingly, the antennas410-2and the bridge pattern312-2may be prevented from being viewed from the outside, or the visibility of the antennas410-2and the bridge pattern312-2from the outside may be reduced.

The antennas410-2, the bridge pattern312-2, and the dummy pattern440-2may be separated from each other. Accordingly, when viewed from the third direction DR3, the antennas410-2, the bridge pattern312-2, and the dummy pattern440-2may not overlap each other.

FIG.26is a cross-sectional view illustrating a cross section cut along line VII-VII′ ofFIG.21.

Referring toFIGS.21and26, one sensing wiring330-2and one antenna wiring420-2are illustrated. Each of the sensing wiring330-2and the antenna wiring420-2may be configured with a plurality of conductive layers.

The sensing wiring330-2may include a first sensing wiring pattern331-2and a second sensing wiring pattern332-2. The antenna wiring420-2may include a first antenna wiring pattern421-2and a second antenna wiring pattern422-2. The first sensing wiring pattern331-2and the first antenna wiring pattern421-2may be components included in the first conductive layer502(seeFIG.22), and the second sensing wiring pattern332-2and the second antenna wiring pattern422-2may be components included in the second conductive layer504(seeFIG.22)

The sensing wiring330-2and the antenna wiring420-2may include wiring patterns disposed on the same layer. Accordingly, the sensing wiring330-2and the antenna wiring420-2may not cross each other, and may be separated and insulated from each other.

According to the present disclosure, the sensing layer may be directly disposed on the display layer, and the antenna layer may be directly disposed on the display layer or directly disposed on the sensing layer. Accordingly, an adhesion layer may not be disposed between the display layer, the sensing layer, and the antenna layer. As a result, the transmissivity of the display device may be improved, and the thin-type display device (e.g., the thin kind of display device) including the antenna may be provided.

In addition, the antenna layer may be provided in the display area of the display device. Even when the display device is miniaturized or thinned, or the area of the non-display area surrounding the display area is reduced, a space in which the antenna layer is to be disposed may be easily secured.

In addition, the shapes of the antennas included in the antenna layer may be different from each other. In this case, one display device is communicable in various suitable frequency bands.

While this disclosure has been described with reference to example embodiments thereof, it will be clear to those of ordinary skill in the art to which the disclosure pertains that various suitable changes and modifications may be made to the described embodiments without departing from the spirit and technical area of the disclosure as defined in the appended claims and their equivalents. Thus, the scope of the present disclosure shall not be restricted or limited by the foregoing description, but shall be determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of the following claims and equivalents thereof.