Patent Description:
Organic light emitting diode ("OLED") display devices are a self-luminous display device that displays images using an OLED that emits light. The OLED display devices are attracting attention because they have characteristics such as low power consumption, high luminance and high respond speed. Such an OLED display device has a multilayer structure including an OLED. Each layer included in the OLED display device includes different materials, and has different refractive indices. Since each layer has different refractive indices as described above, reflection or total reflection of light occurs at an interlayer interface. Because a part of the light generated in the OLED is extinguished by such light reflection or total reflection, the OLED display device has low luminous efficiency. Accordingly, it is necessary to increase the luminous efficiency of the OLED display device.

<CIT> and <CIT> relate to display devices integrated with a touch sensing member. <CIT> and <CIT> relate to OLED display devices including colour filters and a lens layer.

It is to be understood that this background of the technology portion is intended to provide useful background for understanding the technology and as such disclosed herein, the technology background portion may include ideas, concepts or recognitions that were not part of what was known or appreciated by those skilled in the pertinent art prior to a corresponding effective filing date of subject matter disclosed herein.

Embodiments of the present inventive concept may be directed to a display device having excellent luminous efficiency.

In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a display device according to claim <NUM>. Embodiments of the invention are set out in the dependent claims.

The first organic layer may have a refractive index substantially equal to a refractive index of the second organic layer. The high refractive index layer may have a refractive index higher than a refractive index of the first organic layer.

The first convex surface may contact at least one of the first organic layer and the second organic layer.

The touch portion further may include a third organic layer disposed on the high refractive index layer and having a refractive index substantially equal to a refractive index of the first organic layer and the second organic layer.

The high refractive index layer may be disposed between the second touch electrodes in a plan view and include a second convex surface protruding toward the third organic layer.

The second convex surface may contact the third organic layer.

The second convex surface may overlap the first convex surface in a plan view.

The touch portion further may include a substrate and an adhesive layer, the adhesive layer being disposed between the substrate and the third organic layer.

The display portion may include: a first pixel electrode; a light emitting layer on the first pixel electrode; and a second pixel electrode on the light emitting layer.

The high refractive index layer may be a colour filter having a colour substantially the same as a colour of a light emitted from the light emitting layer.

The high refractive index layer may be a colour filter having one colour of red, green, and blue.

The first convex surface of the high refractive index layer may overlap the light emitting layer.

The first touch electrode and the second touch electrode may overlap the pixel defining layer.

The touch portion may further include a light blocking portion on the second organic layer, the light blocking portion overlapping the pixel defining layer.

The display portion may further include a thin film encapsulation layer on the second pixel electrode and the pixel defining layer.

The display portion may further include an inorganic layer between the touch portion and the thin film encapsulation layer.

The foregoing is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments and features described above, further aspects, embodiments and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description. Other aspects and embodiments that do not fall within the scope of the claims relate to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure that are not covered by the claimed invention.

A more complete appreciation of the present inventive concept will become more apparent by describing in detail embodiments thereof with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:.

Embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. Although the inventive concept may be modified in various manners and have several embodiments, embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and will be mainly described in the specification. However, the scope of the inventive concept is not limited to the embodiments and should be construed as included in the scope of the inventive concept as defined by the claims.

In the drawings, thicknesses of a plurality of layers and areas are illustrated in an enlarged manner for clarity and ease of description thereof. When a layer, area, or plate is referred to as being "on" another layer, area, or plate, it may be directly on the other layer, area, or plate, or intervening layers, areas, or plates may be present therebetween. Conversely, when a layer, area, or plate is referred to as being "directly on" another layer, area, or plate, intervening layers, areas, or plates may be absent therebetween. Further when a layer, area, or plate is referred to as being "below" another layer, area, or plate, it may be directly below the other layer, area, or plate, or intervening layers, areas, or plates may be present therebetween. Conversely, when a layer, area, or plate is referred to as being "directly below" another layer, area, or plate, intervening layers, areas, or plates may be absent therebetween.

The spatially relative terms "below", "beneath", "lower", "above", "upper" and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe the relations between one element or component and another element or component as illustrated in the drawings. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation, in addition to the orientation depicted in the drawings. For example, in the case where a device illustrated in the drawing is turned over, the device positioned "below" or "beneath" another device may be placed "above" another device. Accordingly, the illustrative term "below" may include both the lower and upper positions. The device may also be oriented in the other direction and thus the spatially relative terms may be interpreted differently depending on the orientations.

Throughout the specification, when an element is referred to as being "connected" to another element, the element is "directly connected" to the other element, or "electrically connected" to the other element with one or more intervening elements interposed therebetween. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises," "including," "includes" and/or "including," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and/or groups thereof.

It will be understood that, although the terms "first," "second," "third," and the like may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element. Thus, "a first element" discussed below could be termed "a second element" or "a third element," and "a second element" and "a third element" may be termed likewise without departing from the teachings herein.

"About" or "approximately" as used herein is inclusive of the stated value and means within an acceptable range of variation for the particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, considering the measurement in question and the error associated with measurement of the particular quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system). For example, "about" may mean within one or more standard variations, or within ± <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>% of the stated value.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this inventive concept pertains. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an ideal or excessively formal sense unless clearly defined in the present specification.

Some of the parts which are not associated with the description may not be provided in order to For example describe embodiments of the present inventive concept and like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the specification.

Hereinafter, a display device according to an embodiment of the present inventive concept will be described with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present inventive concept.

Referring to <FIG>, a display device according to an embodiment of the present inventive concept includes a display portion DP and a touch portion TP. According to an embodiment of the present inventive concept, the display portion DP and the touch portion TP are unitarily formed. However, embodiments are not limited thereto, and the display portion DP and the touch portion TP may be formed as separate components.

The display portion DP includes a display area DA and a non-display area NDA, and a plurality of pixels PX are located in the display area DA.

The touch portion TP is disposed on the display portion DP and includes a touch electrode TE.

Hereinafter, a display portion according to an embodiment of the present inventive concept will be described in detail with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> is a plan view illustrating a part of a display portion according to an embodiment of the present inventive concept, and <FIG> is a cross-sectional view illustrating a part of a display portion according to an embodiment of the present inventive concept.

Referring to <FIG>, the display portion DP according to an embodiment of the present inventive concept includes the plurality of pixels PX defined by a pixel defining layer <NUM>, and each pixel PX includes a first substrate <NUM>, a wiring portion <NUM>, an organic light emitting element (hereinafter, "organic light emitting diode (OLED)") <NUM>, and a thin film encapsulation layer <NUM>.

The first substrate <NUM> may include an insulating material of; glass, quartz, ceramic, plastic, or the like. However, embodiments are not limited thereto, and the first substrate <NUM> according to an embodiment may include a metallic material such as stainless steel.

A buffer layer <NUM> is disposed on the first substrate <NUM>. The buffer layer <NUM> may include one or more layers selected from various inorganic layers and organic layers. The buffer layer <NUM> serves to substantially prevent permeation of undesirable elements such as impurities or moisture into the wiring portion <NUM> or the OLED <NUM> and to planarize a surface therebelow. However, the buffer layer <NUM> is not invariably necessary and may be omitted.

The wiring portion <NUM> is disposed on the buffer layer <NUM>. The wiring portion <NUM> corresponds to a portion including a switching thin film transistor ("TFT"), a driving TFT <NUM>, and a capacitor <NUM>. The wiring portion <NUM> drives the OLED <NUM>. The OLED <NUM> emits light according to the driving signal received from the wiring portion <NUM> to display images.

The display device according to an embodiment of the present inventive concept may be an active matrix-type organic light emitting diode ("AMOLED") display device having a 2Tr-1Cap structure. For example, the 2Tr-1Cap structure may include two TFTs, e.g., the switching TFT (not illustrated) and the driving TFT <NUM>, and one capacitor <NUM> in each pixel PX, but embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the display device may include three or more TFTs and two or more capacitors in each pixel, and may further include additional wirings. Herein, the term "pixel" refers to a smallest unit for displaying a specific color, and the display device displays images using a plurality of pixels.

The switching TFT (not illustrated), the driving TFT <NUM>, the capacitor <NUM>, and the OLED <NUM> are provided in each pixel PX. In addition, a gate line (not illustrated) disposed along one direction, and a data line <NUM> and a common power line (not illustrated) insulated from and intersecting the gate line are disposed in the wiring portion <NUM>.

The capacitor <NUM> includes a pair of capacitor plates <NUM> and <NUM> with an insulating interlayer <NUM> interposed therebetween. In such an embodiment, the insulating interlayer <NUM> may be a dielectric element. A capacitance of the capacitor <NUM> is determined by electric charges accumulated in the capacitor <NUM> and a voltage between the pair of capacitor plates <NUM> and <NUM>. The switching TFT includes a switching semiconductor layer, a switching gate electrode, a switching source electrode and a switching drain electrode. The driving TFT <NUM> includes a driving semiconductor layer <NUM>, a driving gate electrode <NUM>, a driving source electrode <NUM> and a driving drain electrode <NUM>. The semiconductor layer <NUM> and the gate electrode <NUM> are insulated by the gate insulating layer <NUM>.

The switching TFT may function as a switching element which selects a pixel to transmit a data voltage applied to the data line <NUM> to the driving TFT <NUM>. The switching gate electrode is connected to the gate line, and the switching source electrode is connected to the data line <NUM>. Spaced apart from the switching source electrode, the switching drain electrode is connected to one of the capacitor plates, e.g., the capacitor plate <NUM>.

Although not illustrated, the driving TFT <NUM> applies, to a first pixel electrode <NUM>, a driving power which allows the light emitting layer <NUM> of the OLED <NUM> in the selected pixel to emit light. The driving gate electrode <NUM> is connected to the one capacitor plate <NUM> that is connected to the switching drain electrode. Each of the driving source electrode <NUM> and the other of the capacitor plates, e.g., the capacitor plate <NUM>, is connected to the common power line. The driving drain electrode <NUM> is connected to the first pixel electrode <NUM>, which is a pixel electrode, of the OLED <NUM> through a contact hole.

The switching TFT is driven based on a gate voltage applied to the gate line and serves to transmit a data voltage applied to the data line <NUM> to the driving TFT <NUM>. A voltage equivalent to a difference between a common voltage applied to the driving TFT <NUM> from the common power line and the data voltage transmitted by (or from) the switching TFT is stored in the capacitor <NUM>, and a current corresponding to the voltage stored in the capacitor <NUM> flows to the OLED <NUM> through the driving TFT <NUM> such that the OLED <NUM> may emit light.

A planarizing layer <NUM> is disposed on the insulating interlayer <NUM>. The planarizing layer <NUM> includes an insulating material and protects the wiring portion <NUM>. The planarizing layer <NUM> and the insulating interlayer <NUM> may include a substantially same material.

The OLED <NUM> is disposed on the planarizing layer <NUM>. The OLED <NUM> includes the first pixel electrode <NUM>, the light emitting layer <NUM> disposed on the first pixel electrode <NUM>, and a second pixel electrode <NUM> disposed on the light emitting layer <NUM>. Holes and electrons are injected into the light emitting layer <NUM> from the first pixel electrode <NUM> and the second pixel electrode <NUM>, respectively, and combined with each other to form an exciton. When the excitons fall from the excited state to the ground state, light emission occurs.

In an embodiment, the first pixel electrode <NUM> is an anode for injecting holes, and the second electrode <NUM> is a cathode for injecting electrons. However, embodiments are not limited thereto, and the first pixel electrode <NUM> may be a cathode, and the second electrode <NUM> may be an anode.

According to an embodiment, the first pixel electrode <NUM> may include a reflective layer and the second electrode <NUM> may include a transflective layer. Accordingly, a light generated in the light emitting layer <NUM> is emitted through the second electrode <NUM>. That is, the display device according to an embodiment of the present inventive concept may have a top emission type structure. However, embodiments are not limited thereto.

The first pixel electrode <NUM> may have a structure in which, for example, a reflective layer and a transparent conductive layer are stacked. In such an embodiment, the transparent conductive layer of the first pixel electrode <NUM> is disposed between the reflective layer and the light emitting layer <NUM>.

The reflective layer may include one or more metals of: magnesium (Mg), silver (Ag), gold (Au), calcium (Ca), lithium (Li), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu) and aluminum (Al).

The transparent conductive layer may include transparent conductive oxide (TCO). Examples of the TCO may include: indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), aluminum zinc oxide (AZO) or indium oxide (In2O3). Since such a transparent conductive layer has a high work function, hole injection through the first pixel electrode <NUM> is smooth.

In addition, the first pixel electrode <NUM> may have a triple-layer structure in which a transparent conductive layer, a reflective layer and a transparent conductive layer are sequentially stacked. The first pixel electrode <NUM> may only include a transparent conductive layer. In such an embodiment, the first pixel electrode <NUM> becomes a transparent electrode.

The second electrode <NUM> may include a transflective layer including one or more metals of: magnesium (Mg), silver (Ag), gold (Au), calcium (Ca), lithium (Li), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu) and aluminum (Al). In general, the transflective layer may have a thickness of about <NUM> or less. As the thickness of the transflective layer decreases, the transmittance of light becomes higher, and as the thickness thereof increases, the transmittance of light becomes lower.

At least one of a hole injection layer HIL and a hole transport layer HTL may further be provided between the first pixel electrode <NUM> and the light emitting layer <NUM> (not illustrated).

In addition, at least one of an electron transport layer ETL and an electron injection layer EIL may further be provided between the light emitting layer <NUM> and the second pixel electrode <NUM> (not illustrated).

The light emitting layer <NUM>, the hole injection layer HIL, the hole transport layer HTL, the electron transport layer ETL, and the electron injection layer EIL may be referred to as an organic layer. The organic layer may include a low molecular organic material or a high molecular organic material.

The pixel defining layer <NUM> has an opening OP. The opening OP of the pixel defining layer <NUM> exposes a portion of the first pixel electrode <NUM>.

For example, the pixel defining layer <NUM> is disposed on the first substrate <NUM> and overlaps an edge of the first pixel electrode <NUM>. The opening OP of the pixel defining layer <NUM> is defined by a side wall. At least a part of the first pixel electrode <NUM> is exposed from the pixel defining layer <NUM> by the opening OP.

The first pixel electrode <NUM>, the light emitting layer <NUM>, and the second pixel electrode <NUM> are sequentially stacked at the opening OP of the pixel defining layer <NUM>. The second pixel electrode <NUM> is formed on the pixel defining layer <NUM> as well as on the light emitting layer <NUM>. In an embodiment, the hole injection layer HIL, the hole transport layer HTL, the electron transport layer ETL, and the electron injection layer EIL may also be disposed between the pixel defining layer <NUM> and the second pixel electrode <NUM>. The OLED <NUM> generates light from the light emitting layer <NUM> located at the opening OP of the pixel defining layer <NUM>. In such a manner, the pixel defining layer <NUM> may define the pixel PX.

The thin film encapsulation layer <NUM> is disposed on the second pixel electrode <NUM> to protect the OLED <NUM>. The thin film encapsulation layer <NUM> substantially prevents outside air such as moisture or oxygen from permeating into the OLED <NUM>.

The thin film encapsulation layer <NUM> includes at least one inorganic layer <NUM> and <NUM> and at least one organic layer <NUM> which are alternately disposed.

In <FIG>, the thin film encapsulation layer <NUM> includes two inorganic layers <NUM> and <NUM> and one organic layer <NUM>, but embodiments are not limited thereto.

Each of the inorganic layers <NUM> and <NUM> may include one or more inorganic materials of: Al<NUM>O<NUM>, TiO<NUM>, ZrO, SiO<NUM>, AlON, AlN, SiON, Si<NUM>N<NUM>, ZnO and Ta<NUM>O<NUM>. The inorganic layers <NUM> and <NUM> may be formed through methods such as a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method or an atomic layer deposition (ALD) method. However, embodiments are not limited thereto, and the inorganic layers <NUM> and <NUM> may be formed using various methods known to those skilled in the art.

The organic layer <NUM> may include a polymer-based material. Examples of the polymer-based material may include, for example, an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, polyimide, and polyethylene. In addition, the organic layer <NUM> may be formed through a thermal deposition process. The thermal deposition process for forming the organic layers <NUM> may be performed in a temperature range that may not damage the OLED <NUM>. However, embodiments are not limited thereto, and the organic layer <NUM> may be formed using various methods known to those skilled in the pertinent art.

The inorganic layers <NUM> and <NUM> which have a high density of thin layer may prevent or efficiently reduce infiltration of, mostly, moisture or oxygen. Permeation of moisture and oxygen into the OLED <NUM> may be largely prevented by the inorganic layers <NUM> and <NUM>.

The moisture and oxygen that have passed through the inorganic layers <NUM> and <NUM> are blocked again by the organic layer <NUM>. The organic layer <NUM> has a smaller effect of preventing moisture permeation than the inorganic layers <NUM> and <NUM>. However, the organic layers <NUM> may also serve as a buffer layer to reduce stress among respective ones of the inorganic layers <NUM> and <NUM>, in addition to the moisture-permeation preventing function. In addition, since the organic layer <NUM> has planarizing characteristics, an uppermost surface of the thin film encapsulation layer <NUM> may be planarized.

The thin film encapsulation layer <NUM> may have a thickness of about <NUM> or less, or may have a thickness of about <NUM> or less as necessary. Accordingly, the display device may have a significantly small thickness.

Although not illustrated, a sealing substrate may be disposed on the thin film encapsulation layer <NUM> to protect the OLED <NUM>. The sealing substrate opposes the first substrate <NUM> to be coupled to thereto and protects the OLED <NUM>. As the sealing substrate, a transparent insulating substrate including glass, quartz, ceramics, plastic, or the like may be used. The sealing substrate may be omitted. When the sealing substrate is omitted, the flexible properties of the display device may become excellent.

Although not illustrated, the display device may further include a capping layer disposed between the OLED <NUM> and the thin film encapsulation layer <NUM>. The capping layer has light transmittance and serves to protect the OLED <NUM>. The capping layer may serve a light emitted from the light emitting layer <NUM> to be efficiently emitted to the outside.

In addition, although not illustrated, an inorganic layer may be disposed on the thin film encapsulation layer <NUM>. The inorganic layer has light transmittance and may protect the OLED <NUM>.

Hereinafter, a touch portion according to an embodiment of the present inventive concept will be described in detail with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> is a plan view illustrating a first touch electrode according to an embodiment of the present inventive concept, <FIG> is a plan view illustrating a second touch electrode according to an embodiment of the present inventive concept, <FIG> is a view enlarging a portion A in <FIG> and <FIG>, <FIG> is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' of <FIG>, <FIG> is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' of <FIG>, and <FIG> is a cross-sectional view showing a path of a light in a first organic layer, a second organic layer, and a high refractive index layer.

Referring to <FIG>, the touch portion TP includes a first touch electrode TE1, a first organic layer OL1, a second touch electrode TE2, a second organic layer OL2, a light blocking portion <NUM>, a high refractive index layer <NUM>, a third organic layer OL3, and a second substrate <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, the touch electrode TE may include the first touch electrode TE1 and the second touch electrode TE2.

The first touch electrode TE1 and the second touch electrode TE2 are disposed at an area corresponding to the display area DA. Although not illustrated, the first touch electrode TE1 and the second touch electrode TE2 may be connected to a touch driver by a connection line disposed at an area corresponding to the non-display area NDA.

The first touch electrode TE1 and the second touch electrode TE2 are disposed at an area where the pixel PX is not located. That is, the first touch electrode TE1 and the second touch electrode TE2 overlap the pixel defining layer <NUM>.

The first touch electrode TE1 includes a first stem electrode TE1a and a first branch electrode TE1b.

The first stem electrode TE1a may have a plurality of quadrangular shapes in a plan view, and the first branch electrode TE1b may extend from at least one of the first stem electrodes TE1a to have a mesh shape in the quadrangular shape. Alternatively, the first branch electrode TE1b may not extend from at least one of the quadrangular shapes defined by the first stem electrodes TE1a. However, the shape of the first touch electrode TE1 is not limited thereto, and may take various forms.

The second touch electrode TE2 may have a mesh structure in a plan view. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto, and the second touch electrode TE2 may take various forms.

The first touch electrode TE1 overlaps the second touch electrode TE2. However, embodiments are not limited thereto.

It is illustrated in <FIG> that the first touch electrodes TE1a and TE1b have a width different from a width of the second touch electrode TE2 in a plan view. However, embodiments are not limited thereto, and the first touch electrodes TE1a and TE1b may have a width substantially equal to a width of the second touch electrode TE2 in a plan view.

The first organic layer OL1 is disposed on the first touch electrode TE1, and has a contact hole SCH for connecting the first touch electrode TE1 and the second touch electrode TE2. The second touch electrode TE2 is connected to the first touch electrode TE1 through the contact hole SCH.

The second organic layer OL2 is disposed on the second touch electrode TE2.

The second organic layer OL2 may have a refractive index substantially equal to a refractive index of the first organic layer OL1.

Referring to <FIG>, the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 have a concave lens-shaped opening LOP at an area overlapping the pixel PX. The shape of the opening LOP can alternatively be described as plano-convex with the convex portion protruding towards the display portion and the planar portion adjacent to the third organic layer OL3. For example, the openings LOP of the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 may overlap (overlie) the first pixel electrode <NUM>, the light emitting layer <NUM>, and the second pixel electrode <NUM>. In particular, the openings LOP of the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 may overlap the light emitting layer <NUM>. In other words, the openings LOP of the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 may be located between the thin film encapsulation layer <NUM> and the light blocking layer <NUM>. Thus, the openings LOP of the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 may also be disposed between the first touch electrode TE1 and the second touch electrode TE2.

The first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 may have a refractive index less than a refractive index of the high refractive index layer <NUM> to be described below. For example, the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 may have a refractive index less than about <NUM>.

The first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 include a polymer-based material. The polymer-based material may include one of an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, polyimide, and polyethylene. The first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 may be formed on the thin film encapsulation layer <NUM> through a thermal deposition process and a patterning process. However, embodiments are not limited thereto, and the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 may be formed through various methods known to those skilled in the art.

The light blocking portion <NUM> is disposed on the second organic layer OL2, and overlaps the pixel defining layer <NUM>. For example, the light blocking portion <NUM> is disposed on the first touch electrode TE1 and the second touch electrode TE2. The light blocking portion <NUM> may block light at an area where the pixel PX is not disposed, and may substantially prevent light reflected by the first touch electrode TE1 and the second touch electrode TE2 from being viewed.

The high refractive index layer <NUM> may overlap (overlie) the pixel PX in a plan view. For example, the high refractive index layer <NUM> overlaps the light emitting layer <NUM> completely.

The high refractive index layer <NUM> is disposed at the lens-shaped opening LOP of the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2. Accordingly, the high refractive index layer <NUM> may be disposed between the thin film encapsulation layer <NUM> and the third organic layer OL3, thus, may also be disposed between the first touch electrode TE1 and the second touch electrode TE2, and includes a first convex surface 521a protruding toward the display portion DP. The high refractive index layer <NUM> contacts at least one of the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2.

The high refractive index layer <NUM> may have a refractive index higher than a refractive index of the first, second, and third organic layers OL1, OL2 and OL3. For example, the high refractive index layer <NUM> may have a refractive index of about <NUM>, and the first, second, and third organic layers OL1, OL2, and OL3 may have a refractive index of about <NUM>.

Accordingly, a light incident to an interface between the high refractive index layer <NUM> and the first and second organic layers OL1 and OL2 is refracted, which will be described below in detail with reference to <FIG>.

The high refractive index layer <NUM> may be a colour filter. For example, the high refractive index layer <NUM> may be a colour filter of a colour substantially the same as a colour of a light emitted from the light emitting layer <NUM> overlapping the high refractive index layer <NUM>. For example, a red light may be emitted from the light emitting layer <NUM>, and the high refractive index layer <NUM> overlapping the light emitting layer <NUM> may be a red colour filter. The light emitting layer <NUM> may emit a light having any colour of red, green, and blue, and the high refractive index layer <NUM> may be a colour filter having any colour of red, green, and blue.

The third organic layer OL3 is disposed on the high refractive index layer <NUM>. The third organic layer OL3 includes an insulating material and protects the first touch electrode TE1 and the second touch electrode TE2. The third organic layer OL3 may include a material substantially the same as a material included in the planarizing layer <NUM> and the insulating interlayer <NUM>. The third organic layer OL3 serves to substantially prevent unnecessary components such as impurities or moisture from penetrating into the first and second touch electrodes TE1 and TE2 and to planarize the surface.

The third organic layer OL3 may have a refractive index substantially equal to a refractive index of the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2. Accordingly, the third organic layer OL3 may have a refractive index less than that of the high refractive index layer <NUM>.

The second substrate <NUM> is disposed on the third organic layer OL3. The second substrate <NUM> opposes the first substrate <NUM> and protects the first and second touch electrodes TE1 and TE2. As the second substrate <NUM>, a transparent insulating substrate including glass, quartz, ceramics, plastic, or the like may be used. The second substrate <NUM> may be omitted. When the second substrate <NUM> is omitted, the flexible properties of the display device may become excellent.

Although not illustrated, an adhesive layer may be disposed between the second substrate <NUM> and the third organic layer OL3 to attach the second substrate <NUM> onto the third organic layer OL3.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view showing a path of a light in a first organic layer OL1, a second organic layer OL2, and a high refractive index layer <NUM>.

A light L1 generated in the light emitting layer <NUM> and incident to the first organic layer OL1 or the second organic layer OL2 is refracted at an interface between the high refractive layer <NUM> and the first and second organic layers OL1 and OL2. Referring to <FIG>, the light L1 is incident to the interface between the high refractive layer <NUM> and the first and second organic layers OL1 and OL2 at an angle θ1 (incidence angle), and is refracted at an angle θ2 (refraction angle). In such an embodiment, a refractive index n2 of the high refractive index layer <NUM> is higher than a refractive index n1 of the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 (n2>n1), thus resulting in "θ<NUM><θ<NUM>. " Accordingly, the light L2 incident to the high refractive index layer <NUM> is in a state of being condensed toward the front as compared with the light L1 incident to the first organic layer OL1 or the second organic layer OL2.

As such, since the high refractive index layer <NUM> including the first convex surface 521a serves to condense light, the front visibility and luminous efficiency of the display device <NUM> are improved.

Hereinafter, another embodiment of the present inventive concept will be described with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view according to another embodiment of the present inventive concept. Hereinafter, in order to avoid redundancy, a description of the components already described hereinabove will be omitted.

The high refractive index layer <NUM> may overlap (overlie) the pixel PX in a plan view. For example, the high refractive index layer <NUM> overlaps the light emitting layer <NUM>, and may be disposed between the first touch electrode TE1 and the second touch electrode TE2.

The high refractive index layer <NUM> is disposed at the lens-shaped opening LOP of the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2. The lens-shaped opening LOP is, for example, that of a bi-convex lens. Accordingly, the high refractive index layer <NUM> includes the first convex surface 521a protruding toward the display portion DP. According to another embodiment of the present inventive concept, the high refractive index layer <NUM> may include a second convex surface 521b protruding toward the third organic layer OL3. Accordingly, the second convex surface 521b may be disposed between the light blocking portion and the third organic layer OL3.

The first convex surface 521a and the second convex surface 521b may overlap the pixel PX in a plan view. For example, the first convex surface 521a and the second convex surface 521b may overlap the light emitting layer <NUM>. The second convex surface 521b may overlap the first convex surface 521a in a plan view.

The high refractive index layer <NUM> contacts at least one of the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2 at an area overlapping the pixel PX. For example, the first convex surface 521a contacts at least one of the first organic layer OL1 and the second organic layer OL2.

The high refractive index layer <NUM> contacts the third organic layer OL3 at an area overlapping the pixel PX. For example, the second convex surface 521b may overlap the third organic layer OL3.

Light generated in the light emitting layer <NUM> is refracted at an interface between the high refractive layer <NUM> and the first and second organic layers OL1 and OL2 and at an interface between the high refractive layer <NUM> and the third organic layer OL3 due to the first and second convex surfaces 521a and 521b and a refractive index difference between the high refractive layer <NUM> and the first, second, and third organic layers OL1, OL2 and OL3. As such, since the high refractive index layer <NUM> including the first and second convex surfaces 521a and 521b serves to condense light, the front visibility and luminous efficiency of the display device are improved.

Hereinafter, an exemplary embodiment that is not covered by the claimed invention will be described with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view according to an exemplary embodiment that is not covered by the claimed invention. Hereinafter, in order to avoid redundancy, a description of the components already described hereinabove will be omitted.

The high refractive index layer <NUM> may overlap the pixel PX in a plan view. For example, the high refractive index layer <NUM> overlaps the light emitting layer <NUM>, and may be disposed between the second organic layer OL2 and the third organic layer OL3.

The high refractive index layer <NUM> may include the first convex surface 521a protruding toward the third organic layer OL3. Alternatively described, the high refractive index layer may have a plano-convex lens shape with the convex part protruding into the third organic layer OL3.

The first convex surface 521a may overlap (overlie) the pixel PX in a plan view. For example, the first convex surface 521a may overlap the light emitting layer <NUM> completely. In other words, the first convex surface 521a may be disposed between the second organic layer OL2 and the third organic layer OL3.

The high refractive index layer <NUM> contacts the third organic layer OL3 at an area overlapping the pixel PX. For example, the first convex surface 521a may overlap the third organic layer OL3.

Light generated in the light emitting layer <NUM> is refracted at an interface between the high refractive layer <NUM> and the third organic layer OL3 due to the first convex surface 521a and a refractive index difference between the high refractive layer <NUM> and the third organic layer OL3. As such, since the high refractive index layer <NUM> including the first convex surface 521a serves to condense light, the front visibility and luminous efficiency of the display device are improved.

Hereinafter, another exemplary embodiment that is not covered by the claimed invention will be described with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view according to another exemplary embodiment that is not covered by the claimed invention. Hereinafter, in order to avoid redundancy, a description of the components already described hereinabove will be omitted.

The high refractive index layer <NUM> may include a first concave surface 522a, for example, the high refractive index layer <NUM> may have a plano-concave lens shape with the planar surface adjacent to the second organic layer OL2 and the concave surface 522a adjacent to the third organic layer OL3.

The first concave surface 522a may overlap the pixel PX in a plan view. For example, the first concave surface 522a may overlap the light emitting layer <NUM>. In other words, the first concave surface 522a may be disposed between the high refractive index layer <NUM> and the third organic layer OL3.

The high refractive index layer <NUM> contacts the third organic layer OL3 at an area overlapping the pixel PX. For example, the first concave surface 522a may overlap the third organic layer OL3.

Light generated in the light emitting layer <NUM> is refracted at an interface between the high refractive layer <NUM> and the third organic layer OL3 due to the first concave surface 522a and a refractive index difference between the high refractive layer <NUM> and the third organic layer OL3. As such, since the high refractive index layer <NUM> including the first concave surface 522a serves to condense light, the front visibility and luminous efficiency of the display device are improved.

As set forth hereinabove, according to one or more embodiments, the display device has excellent luminous efficiency.

Claim 1:
A display device comprising:
a display portion, DP, comprising pixels defined by a pixel defining layer (<NUM>); and
a touch portion, TP, on the display portion,
wherein the touch portion comprises:
a first touch electrode, TE1, overlapping the pixel defining layer (<NUM>);
a first organic layer, OL1, on the first touch electrode;
a second touch electrode, TE2, contacting the first touch electrode;
a second organic layer, OL2, on the second touch electrode; and
a high refractive index layer (<NUM>) on the first organic layer, OL1, the second touch electrode, TE2, and the second organic layer, OL2,
wherein the high refractive index layer (<NUM>) is disposed between adjacent second touch electrodes, TE2, in a plan view and comprises a first convex surface (521a) protruding towards the display portion, DP, and overlapping one of the pixels, and
wherein the first convex surface (521a) of the high refractive index layer (<NUM>) is in contact with the display portion.