Patent ID: 12219856

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, a display device and a method for manufacturing the display device according to exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some exemplary embodiments are shown. The present inventive concept, however, may be embodied in various different forms, and should not be construed as being limited to only the illustrated embodiments herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided as examples so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the aspects and features of the present inventive concept to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, processes, elements, and techniques that are not necessary to those having ordinary skill in the art for a complete understanding of the aspects and features of the present inventive concept may not be described. Unless otherwise noted, like reference numerals denote like elements throughout the attached drawings and the written description, and thus, descriptions thereof may not be repeated.

In the drawings, the relative sizes of elements, layers, and regions may be exaggerated and/or simplified for clarity. Spatially relative terms, such as “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “under,” “above,” “upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of explanation to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or in operation, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” or “under” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the example terms “below” and “under” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

It will be understood that, although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section described below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present inventive concept.

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, connected to, or coupled to the other element or layer, or one or more intervening elements or layers may be present. In addition, it will also be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “between” two elements or layers, it can be the only element or layer between the two elements or layers, or one or more intervening elements or layers may also be present.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting of the present inventive concept. As used herein, the singular forms “a” and “an” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” and “including,” “has,” “have,” and “having,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of the 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. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Expressions such as “at least one of,” when preceding a list of elements, modify the entire list of elements and do not modify the individual elements of the list.

As used herein, the term “substantially,” “about,” and similar terms are used as terms of approximation and not as terms of degree, and are intended to account for the inherent variations in measured or calculated values that would be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art. Further, the use of “may” when describing embodiments of the present inventive concept refers to “one or more embodiments of the present inventive concept.” As used herein, the terms “use,” “using,” and “used” may be considered synonymous with the terms “utilize,” “utilizing,” and “utilized,” respectively. Also, the term “exemplary” is intended to refer to an example or illustration.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present inventive concept belongs. 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/or the present specification, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense, unless expressly so defined herein.

FIG.1is a plan view illustrating a display device according to an exemplary embodiment.FIG.2is an enlarged plan view illustrating the region A ofFIG.1.

Referring toFIG.1, a display device includes a display area DA and a non-display area PA.

An array of pixels PX may be disposed at (e.g., in or on) the display area DA, and the pixels PX may emit light to display an image. For example, the display device may be an organic light-emitting display device, and each of the pixels PX may include an organic light-emitting diode and a driving element for driving the organic light-emitting diode. The driving element may include at least one thin film transistor. The display device may further include an encapsulation layer, which may protect the organic light-emitting diode, and a touch-sensing part (e.g., a touch sensor) disposed on the encapsulation layer.

The non-display area PA may include a peripheral area PA1adjacent to or surrounding (e.g., around a periphery of) the display area DA, and a bonding area PA2at (e.g., in or on) which a driving part (e.g., a driver or a driving circuit) DC may be attached (e.g., may be bonded).

The driving part DC may provide a driving signal, for example, such as a data signal, to the pixel array of the display area DA. In an exemplary embodiment, the driving part DC may include a driving chip including an integrated circuit. The driving signal generated by the driving part DC may be provided to the pixel array of the display area DA through a transfer line TL. For example, the transfer line TL may extend along a first direction D1.

In some embodiments, the display device may have an area that is foldable, bendable, and/or the like, such that the area has a folded shape or a bent shape. For example, an area between the peripheral area PA1and the bonding area PA2may define (e.g., may form) a bending area PA3that may have a curvature when folded or bent so that the bonding area PA2may be disposed underneath the display area DA.

A connection pad electrically connected to the driving part DC may be disposed at (e.g., in or on) the bonding area PA2. For example, a plurality of connection pads may be arranged with a zigzag configuration along a second direction D2crossing the first direction D1. For example, as shown inFIG.2, first connection pads CP1electrically connected to first transfer lines TL1may be arranged at (e.g., in or on) a first row, and second connection pads CP2electrically connected to second transfer lines TL2may be arranged at (e.g., in or on) a second row.

The connection pads CP1and CP2may have a multi-layered structure including a plurality of conductive layers. For example, the connection pads CP1and CP2may include a combination of conductive layers formed from the same layers as those of at least two from among a gate metal pattern of the driving element, a source metal pattern of the driving element, and a sensing conductive pattern of the touch-sensing part. As used herein, when layers or patterns are described as being formed from the same layer as that of another component or layer, the layers or patterns may include the same or substantially the same material as that of the other component or layer, or may be disposed at (e.g., in or on) the same layer as that of the other component or layer.

FIG.3is a cross-sectional view illustrating a display area of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment.FIG.4is a plan view illustrating a sensing electrode of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIG.3, a buffer layer120is disposed on a base substrate110at (e.g., in or on) the display area DA. An active pattern AP is disposed on the buffer layer120. A gate electrode GE is disposed on the active pattern AP. A first insulation layer130is disposed between the active pattern AP and the gate electrode GE. The first insulation layer130may be referred to as a first gate insulation layer.

A gate wiring pattern GP is disposed on the gate electrode GE. The gate wiring pattern GP may include a capacitor electrode, a signal wiring for transferring a driving signal, and/or the like. A second insulation layer140is disposed between the gate electrode GE and the gate wiring pattern GP. The second insulation layer140may be referred to as a second gate insulation layer. A third insulation layer150is disposed on the gate wiring pattern GP. The third insulation layer150may be referred to as an interlayer insulation layer.

A source electrode SE and a drain electrode DE are disposed on the third insulation layer150. The source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE may extend (e.g., may pass) through one or more of the insulation layers disposed thereunder to be electrically connected to (e.g., to contact) the active pattern AP. For example, the source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE may extend (e.g., may pass) through each of the first, second, and third insulation layers130,140, and150to contact a portion of a top surface of the active pattern AP. A fourth insulation layer160is disposed on a first source metal pattern including the source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE. In an exemplary embodiment, the fourth insulation layer160may include an inorganic layer162, and an organic layer164disposed on the inorganic layer162. The fourth insulation layer160may be referred to as a first via insulation layer.

A second source metal pattern including a connection electrode CE is disposed on the fourth insulation layer160. The connection electrode CE may be electrically connected to (e.g., may contact) the drain electrode DE. The second source metal pattern may further include a mesh power line to compensate for a voltage drop of a current applied to an organic light-emitting diode. A fifth insulation layer170is disposed on the second source metal pattern. The fifth insulation layer170may be referred to as a second via insulation layer.

An organic light-emitting diode210is disposed on the fifth insulation layer170. For example, a first electrode212of the organic light-emitting diode210may be disposed on the fifth insulation layer170. The first electrode212may be electrically connected to (e.g., may contact) the connection electrode CE. In another exemplary embodiment, the connection electrode CE may be omitted, and the first electrode212may be electrically connected to (e.g., may contact) the drain electrode DE directly.

An organic light-emitting layer214is disposed on the first electrode212. For example, at least a portion of the organic light-emitting layer214may be disposed at (e.g., in or on) an opening of a pixel-defining layer180. A second electrode216is disposed on the organic light-emitting layer214.

An encapsulation layer220is disposed on the organic light-emitting layer214. For example, the encapsulation layer220may have a stacked structure including at least one organic thin film and at least one inorganic thin film. For example, as illustrated inFIG.3, the encapsulation layer220may include a first inorganic thin film222, an organic thin film224disposed on the first inorganic thin film222, and a second inorganic thin film226disposed on the organic thin film224. However, the inventive concept is not limited thereto. For example, in another exemplary embodiment, the encapsulation layer220may include at least two organic thin films and at least three inorganic thin films, and the organic thin films may be alternately stacked with the inorganic thin films.

In an exemplary embodiment, a touch-sensing part (e.g., a touch sensor) may be disposed on the encapsulation layer220. For example, the touch-sensing part may sense an external input by detecting a variation of a capacitance, thereby obtaining coordinate information of the external input.

For example, the touch-sensing part may include a lower touch insulation layer310, a first sensing conductive pattern, a touch interlayer insulation layer330, a second sensing conductive pattern, and a protective layer350.

The first sensing conductive pattern may be disposed on the lower touch insulation layer310. The first sensing conductive pattern may include a bridge pattern320. The touch interlayer insulation layer330may be disposed on the first sensing conductive pattern. The second sensing conductive pattern may be disposed on the touch interlayer insulation layer330. The protective layer350may cover the second sensing conductive pattern.

Referring toFIGS.3and4, the second sensing conductive pattern may include a first sensing electrode and a second sensing electrode. The first sensing electrode may be electrically insulated from the second sensing electrode. For example, the first sensing electrode may include an array of electrode patterns arranged along a first direction. The second sensing electrode may include an array of electrode patterns arranged along a second direction crossing the first direction.

For example, the first sensing electrode may include a first electrode pattern342aand a second electrode pattern342b, which are spaced apart from each other along a direction (e.g., along the D2direction). The first electrode pattern342aand the second electrode pattern342bmay be electrically connected to (e.g., may contact) the bridge pattern320through via holes extending through (e.g., passing through) the touch interlayer insulation layer330. Thus, the first electrode pattern342aand the second electrode pattern342bmay be electrically connected to each other (e.g., by the bridge pattern320).

The second sensing electrode may include a plurality of electrode patterns343, and a connection portion344disposed at (e.g., in or on) a same layer as that of the electrode patterns343. The connection portion344may be connected to (e.g., continuously connected to) the electrode patterns343. For example, the connection portion344may extend between or may be unitarily formed with the plurality of electrode patterns343, but the present inventive concept is not limited thereto.

The inventive concept is not limited to the exemplary embodiments illustrated inFIGS.3and4. For example, a touch-sensing part (e.g., a touch sensor) may have various suitable configurations as known to those skilled in the art. For example, in another exemplary embodiment, the lower touch insulation layer310may be omitted. In addition, electrode patterns that are adjacent to each other in the first sensing electrode may be connected to a plurality of bridge patterns. Furthermore, the first sensing electrode and the second sensing electrode may be disposed at (e.g., in or on) different layers from each other, so that the first sensing electrode may have a continuous shape (e.g., may have a unitary shape) without a bridge pattern.

FIG.5is a cross-sectional view illustrating a bonding area of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment.FIG.6is an enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating the region B ofFIG.5.

Referring toFIG.5, connection pads CP1and CP2are disposed on a base substrate110at (e.g., in or on) a bonding area PA2. In one or more exemplary embodiments, the connection pads CP1and CP2may include lower conductive layers CP1aand CP2a, first intermediate conductive layers CP1band CP2b, second intermediate conductive layers CP1cand CP2c, and upper conductive layers CP1dand CP2d, respectively.

In an exemplary embodiment, the lower conductive layer CP1aof a first connection pad CP1may be formed from the same layer as that of a first gate metal pattern disposed at (e.g., in or on) the display area. For example, the lower conductive layer CP1amay be disposed between a first insulation layer130and a second insulation layer140. The lower conductive layer CP2aof a second connection pad CP2may be formed from the same layer as that of a second gate metal pattern disposed at (e.g., in or on) the display area. For example, the lower conductive layer CP2amay be disposed between the second insulation layer140and a third insulation layer150.

The first intermediate conductive layers CP1band CP2bof the connection pads CP1and CP2may be formed from the same layer as that of a first source metal pattern disposed at (e.g., in or on) the display area. For example, the first intermediate conductive layers CP1band CP2bmay be disposed between the third insulation layer150and a fourth insulation layer. The fourth insulation layer may include an inorganic layer162without an organic layer.

The second intermediate conductive layers CP1cand CP2cof the connection pads CP1and CP2may be formed from the same layer as that of a second source metal pattern disposed at (e.g., in or on) the display area. For example, the second intermediate conductive layers CP1cand CP2cmay be disposed on the fourth insulation layer (e.g., the inorganic layer162of the fourth insulation layer).

The upper conductive layers CP1dand CP2dof the connection pads CP1and CP2may be formed from the same layer as that of a sensing conductive pattern of the touch-sensing part disposed at (e.g., in or on) the display area. For example, the upper conductive layers CP1dand CP2dmay be formed from the same layer as that of a second sensing conductive pattern.

A cladding layer172is disposed at (e.g., in or on) the bonding area PA2to cover at least a portion of the second intermediate conductive layers CP1cand CP2c. In an exemplary embodiment, the cladding layer172may be formed from the same layer as that of the fifth insulation layer170(e.g., seeFIG.3), and may include an organic material. In an exemplary embodiment, the cladding layer172may cover at least side surfaces of the second intermediate conductive layers CP1cand CP2c. For example, as shown inFIG.5, the cladding layer172may be disposed between the second intermediate conductive layers CP1cand CP2c, and may cover at least the side surfaces of the second intermediate conductive layers CP1cand CP2cthat face each other.

A passivation layer including an inorganic material may be disposed on the cladding layer172. For example, the passivation layer may be formed from the same layer as that of the lower touch insulation layer310, the upper touch insulation layer330, or a combination thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, the passivation layer may include a lower passivation layer312and an upper passivation layer332. The passivation layer may extend to be partially disposed under the upper conductive layers CP1dand CP2d. For example, the passivation layer may partially overlap with each of the upper conductive layers CP1dand CP2d.

A driving part (e.g., a driver or a driving circuit) DC including a driving chip may be attached to (e.g., bonded on) the bonding area PA2. The driving part DC may be attached to (e.g., bonded on) and electrically connected to the connection pads CP1and CP2by conductive bonding members BP1and BP2. For example, the conductive bonding members BP1and BP2may include (e.g., may be) metal bumps. The conductive bonding members BP1and BP2may be electrically connected to the connection pads CP1and CP2and to connection terminals CT1and CT2of the driving part DC, so that driving signals may be transferred to the connection pads CP1and CP2from the driving part DC. In another exemplary embodiment, an anisotropic conductive film including conductive balls or the like may be used for the conductive bonding member.

Referring toFIG.6, each of the second intermediate conductive layers CP1cand CP2cmay include an upper layer UL, an intermediate layer ML, and a lower layer LL. In an exemplary embodiment, the upper layer UL and the lower layer LL may include a metal having a relatively small ionization tendency, for example, such as titanium. The intermediate layer ML may include a metal having a relatively large ionization tendency, for example, such as aluminum.

The cladding layer172covers at least a side surface of the second intermediate conductive layers CP1cand CP2c. Thus, at least a portion of an upper surface of the upper layer UL may be exposed without being covered by the cladding layer172, and the intermediate layer ML may not be exposed.

In an exemplary embodiment, a thickness T2 of the cladding layer172may be less than (e.g., smaller than) a thickness T1 of the fifth insulation layer170(e.g., seeFIG.3). Thus, a height of an upper surface of the cladding layer172may be lower than a height of an upper surface of the upper conductive layers CP1dand CP2d. In an exemplary embodiment, the height of the upper surface of the cladding layer172may be lower than a height of an upper surface of the second intermediate conductive layers CP1cand CP2c. For example, the thickness T2 of the cladding layer172may be less than or equal to 1 μm (e.g., 1 micro-meter), and may be greater than a thickness of the second intermediate conductive layers CP1cand CP2c.

FIGS.7to16are cross-sectional views illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment.

Referring toFIG.7, a buffer layer120is formed on a base substrate110at (e.g., in or on) a display area DA.

For example, the base substrate110may include glass, quartz, silicon, a polymeric material, and/or the like. In an exemplary embodiment, the base substrate110may be a flexible substrate including the polymeric material. For example, the polymeric material may include polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, polyether ketone, polycarbonate, polyarylate, polyether sulfone, polyimide, or a combination thereof.

The buffer layer120may prevent or reduce penetration of impurities, humidity, and/or external gas from underneath the base substrate110, and may planarize an upper surface of the base substrate110. For example, the buffer layer120may include an inorganic material such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and/or the like, or a combination thereof.

An active pattern AP is formed on the buffer layer120.

For example, the active pattern AP may include a semiconductive material, such as amorphous silicon, polycrystalline silicon (polysilicon), a metal oxide, and/or the like. When the active pattern AP includes polysilicon, at least a portion of the active pattern AP may be doped with impurities, for example, such as n-type impurities or p-type impurities.

In another exemplary embodiment, the active pattern AP may include a metal oxide semiconductor. For example, the active pattern AP may include a two-component compound (ABx), a ternary compound (ABxCy), or a four-component compound (ABxCyDz), which may include indium (In), zinc (Zn), gallium (Ga), tin (Sn), titanium (Ti), aluminum (Al), hafnium (Hf), zirconium (Zr), magnesium (Mg), and/or the like. For example, the active pattern may include zinc oxide (ZnOx), gallium oxide (GaOx), titanium oxide (TiOx), tin oxide (SnOx), indium oxide (InOx), indium-gallium oxide (IGO), indium-zinc oxide (IZO), indium tin oxide (ITO), gallium zinc oxide (GZO), zinc magnesium oxide (ZMO), zinc tin oxide (ZTO), zinc zirconium oxide (ZnZrxOy), indium-gallium-zinc oxide (IGZO), indium-zinc-tin oxide (IZTO), indium-gallium-hafnium oxide (IGHO), tin-aluminum-zinc oxide (TAZO), indium-gallium-tin oxide (IGTO), and/or the like.

A first insulation layer130is formed on the active pattern AP. A first gate metal pattern including a gate electrode GE is formed on the first insulation layer130. The gate electrode GE overlaps with the active pattern AP. A second insulation layer140is formed to cover the first gate metal pattern. A second gate metal pattern including a gate wiring pattern GP is formed on the second insulation layer140.

For example, the first insulation layer130and the second insulation layer140may each include silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon carbide, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, the first insulation layer130and the second insulation layer140may include an insulating metal oxide, for example, such as aluminum oxide, tantalum oxide, hafnium oxide, zirconium oxide, titanium oxide, and/or the like. For example, the first insulation layer130and the second insulation layer140may each have a single-layer structure or a multi-layered structure, which may include silicon nitride and/or silicon oxide.

For example, the first gate metal pattern and the second gate metal pattern may each include gold (Au), silver (Ag), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), platinum (Pt), magnesium (Mg), chromium (Cr), tungsten (W), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tantalum (Ta), or an alloy thereof. The first gate metal pattern and the second gate metal pattern may each have a single-layer structure or a multi-layered structure including different metal layers that are stacked on one another.

Referring toFIG.8, lower conductive layers of connection pads are formed at (e.g., in or on) the bonding area PA2.

In an exemplary embodiment, a lower conductive layer CP1aof a first connection pad may be formed from the same layer as that of the first gate metal pattern, and a lower conductive layer CP2aof a second connection pad may be formed from the same layer as that of the second gate metal pattern. Thus, the lower conductive layer CP1aof the first connection pad may be disposed between the first insulation layer130and the second insulation layer140, and the lower conductive layer CP2aof the second connection pad may be disposed on the second insulation layer140.

Furthermore, the transfer lines TL1and TL2illustrated inFIG.2may be formed from the same layers as those of the first gate metal pattern and the second gate metal pattern, respectively, and may be connected to (e.g., may be continuously connected to) corresponding lower conductive layers CP1aand CP2a. At least a portion of the transfer lines TL1and TL2may be formed from a different layer from those of the gate electrode GE and the gate wiring pattern GP. For example, the transfer lines TL1and TL2may include a bridge formed from the same layer as that of a first source metal pattern or a second source metal pattern.

Referring toFIG.9, a third insulation layer150is formed at (e.g., in or on) the display area DA to cover the second gate metal pattern. Thereafter, a first source metal pattern is formed on the third insulation layer150. The first source metal pattern may include a source electrode SE and a drain electrode DE, which are electrically connected to (e.g., electrically contact) the active pattern AP. For example, the source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE may extend (e.g., may pass) through the third insulation layer150, the second insulation layer140, and the first insulation layer130to be electrically connected to (e.g., to electrically contact) the active pattern AP.

Referring toFIG.10, first intermediate conductive layers of the connection pads are formed at (e.g., in or on) the bonding area PA2.

In an exemplary embodiment, a first intermediate conductive layer CP1bof the first connection pad and a first intermediate conductive layer CP2bof the second connection pad may be formed from the same layer as that of the first source metal pattern including the source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE. Thus, the first intermediate conductive layers CP1band CP2bmay be disposed on the third insulation layer150.

For example, the first intermediate conductive layer CP1bof the first connection pad may extend (e.g., may pass) through the third insulation layer150and the second insulation layer140to be electrically connected to the lower conductive layer CP1a. The first intermediate conductive layer CP2bof the second connection pad may extend (e.g., may pass) through the third insulation layer150to be electrically connected to the lower conductive layer CP2a.

Referring toFIG.11, a fourth insulation layer160is formed to cover the first source metal pattern. In an exemplary embodiment, the fourth insulation layer160may include an inorganic layer162disposed on the first source metal pattern, and an organic layer164disposed on the inorganic layer162. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the inorganic layer162of the fourth insulation layer160may be disposed between the first source metal pattern and the organic layer164to contact the first source metal pattern, but the present inventive concept is not limited thereto. For example, in another exemplary embodiment, the fourth insulation layer160may include the organic layer164without the inorganic layer162.

A second source metal pattern is formed on the fourth insulation layer160. The second source metal pattern may include a connection electrode CE that is electrically connected to (e.g., that electrically contacts) the drain electrode DE. For example, the connection electrode CE may extend (e.g., may pass) through the fourth insulation layer160to be electrically connected to (e.g., to electrically contact) the drain electrode DE. The second source metal pattern may further include a mesh power line to compensate for a voltage drop of a current applied to an organic light-emitting diode.

A fifth insulation layer170is formed to cover the second source metal pattern. The fifth insulation layer170may include an opening to expose at least a portion of an upper surface of the connection electrode CE.

For example, the first source metal pattern and the second source metal pattern may include gold, silver, aluminum, copper, nickel, platinum, magnesium, chromium, tungsten, molybdenum, titanium, tantalum, or an alloy thereof, and may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layered structure including different metal layers. In an exemplary embodiment, the first source metal pattern and the second source metal pattern may include at least a layer including aluminum or aluminum alloy. For example, the first source metal pattern and the second source metal pattern may each have a bi-layered structure of titanium/aluminum or a triple-layered structure of titanium/aluminum/titanium.

For example, each of the third insulation layer150and the inorganic layer162of the fourth insulation layer160may include silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon carbide, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, the third insulation layer150and the inorganic layer162of the fourth insulation layer160may include an insulating metal oxide, for example, such as aluminum oxide, tantalum oxide, hafnium oxide, zirconium oxide, titanium oxide, or the like. For example, the third insulation layer150and the inorganic layer162of the fourth insulation layer160may each have a single-layer structure or a multi-layered structure, which may include silicon nitride and/or silicon oxide.

For example, the fifth insulation layer170and the organic layer164of the fourth insulation layer160may include an organic insulation material, such as a phenol resin, an acryl resin, a polyimide resin, a polyamide resin, an epoxy resin, benzocyclobutene, and/or the like.

Referring toFIG.12, second intermediate conductive layers of the connection pads are formed at (e.g., in or on) the bonding area PA2.

In an exemplary embodiment, the fourth insulation layer160formed on the first intermediate conductive layers CP1band CP2bmay include the inorganic layer162without an organic layer (e.g., without the organic layer164). For example, during the process of patterning the organic layer164at (e.g., in or on) the display area DA, the organic layer164disposed at (e.g., in or on) the bonding area PA2may be removed (e.g., may be entirely removed), or the organic layer164may not be disposed at (e.g., in or on) the bonding area PA2.

The second intermediate conductive layers CP1cand CP2cmay be formed on the inorganic layer162, and may extend (e.g., may pass) through the inorganic layer162to be electrically connected to (e.g., to electrically contact) the first intermediate conductive layers CP1band CP2b, respectively. In an exemplary embodiment, the second intermediate conductive layers CP1cand CP2cmay be formed from the same layer as that of the connection electrode CE.

A cladding layer172is formed at (e.g., in or on) the bonding area PA2to cover at least a portion of the second intermediate conductive layers CP1cand CP2c. In an exemplary embodiment, the cladding layer172may be formed from the same layer as that of the fifth insulation layer170.

For example, the fifth insulation layer170and the cladding layer172may be formed by a photolithography process using half-tone light exposure. For example, a photoresist composition may be coated at (e.g., in or on) the display area DA and at (e.g., in or on) the bonding area PA2, and the photoresist composition may be exposed to light such that a light amount for an area corresponding to the fifth insulation layer170is different from a light amount for an area corresponding to the cladding layer172. Thus, the fifth insulation layer170and the cladding layer172having a thickness different from that of the fifth insulation layer170may be formed during the same or substantially the same process.

Referring toFIGS.13and14, a lower electrode layer is formed on the fifth insulation layer170and the cladding layer172, and the lower electrode layer may be patterned to form a first electrode212of a light-emitting diode at (e.g., in or on) the display area DA. The lower electrode layer211may be removed (e.g., may be entirely removed) at (e.g., in or on) the bonding area PA2.

In an exemplary embodiment, the lower electrode layer211may have a multi-layered structure including a metal oxide layer and a metal layer. The metal oxide layer may include, for example, indium tin oxide, indium zinc oxide, zinc tin oxide, indium oxide, zinc oxide, tin oxide, or a combination thereof. The metal layer may include, for example, gold, silver, aluminum, copper, nickel, platinum, magnesium, chromium, tungsten, molybdenum, titanium, or a combination thereof.

In an exemplary embodiment, the lower electrode layer211may include silver. When the lower electrode layer211includes silver, silver ions may be dissolved in an etchant during the process of etching the lower electrode layer211. When the etchant containing silver ions contact aluminum, which has a larger ionization tendency, silver particles may be formed by Galvanic reduction. The silver particles may be transferred to the first electrode212, may contaminate a strip apparatus, and/or may cause a short between touch-sensing electrodes formed during one or more later processes. Thus, reliability of a display device may be deteriorated.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the cladding layer172covers an aluminum-containing layer of the connection pads. Thus, the silver particles and problems therefrom discussed above may be prevented or substantially prevented. Thus, reliability of a display device may be improved.

Referring toFIG.15, a pixel-defining layer180is formed at (e.g., in or on) the display area DA. The pixel-defining layer180may have an opening that exposes at least a portion of the first electrode212. For example, the pixel-defining layer180may include an organic insulation material that may be used for forming the fifth insulation layer170and/or the like.

An organic light-emitting layer214is formed on the first electrode212. For example, the organic light-emitting layer214may be formed at (e.g., in or on) the opening of the pixel-defining layer180. However, the present inventive concept is not limited thereto. For example, the organic light-emitting layer214may extend over an upper surface of the pixel-defining layer180, and/or may be formed as a common layer extending over a plurality of pixels at (e.g., in or on) the display area DA.

The organic light-emitting layer214may include at least a light-emitting layer, and may further include at least one of a hole injection layer (HIL), a hole transporting layer (HTL), an electron transporting layer (ETL), and an electron injection layer (EIL). For example, the organic light-emitting layer214may include a low molecular weight organic compound or a high molecular weight organic compound.

In an exemplary embodiment, the organic light-emitting layer214may emit a red light, a green light, or a blue light. In another exemplary embodiment, the organic light-emitting layer214may emit a white light. When the organic light-emitting layer214emits a white light, the organic light-emitting layer214may have a multi-layered structure including a red-emitting layer, a green-emitting layer, and a blue-emitting layer, or the organic light-emitting layer214may have a single-layer structure including a mixture of a red-emitting material, a green-emitting material, and a blue-emitting material.

A second electrode216is formed on the organic light-emitting layer214. The second electrode216may be formed as a common layer that extends over a plurality of pixels at (e.g., in or on) the display area DA.

In an exemplary embodiment, the second electrode216may function as a cathode. For example, the second electrode216may be formed as a transmitting electrode or a reflecting electrode according to an emission type of the display device. For example, when the second electrode216is a transmitting electrode, the second electrode216may include lithium (Li), calcium (Ca), lithium fluoride, aluminum, magnesium, indium tin oxide, indium zinc oxide, zinc tin oxide, indium oxide, zinc oxide, tin oxide, or a combination thereof.

An encapsulation layer220may be disposed on the second electrode216. For example, the encapsulation layer220may include a first inorganic thin film222, an organic thin film224disposed on the first inorganic thin film222, and a second inorganic thin film226disposed on the organic thin film224.

For example, the organic thin film224may include a cured resin, such as polyacrylate and/or the like. For example, the cured resin may be formed from cross-linking reaction of monomers. For example, the inorganic thin films222and226may include an inorganic material, such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon carbide, aluminum oxide, tantalum oxide, hafnium oxide, zirconium oxide, titanium oxide, and/or the like.

The pixel-defining layer180, the organic light-emitting layer214, the second electrode216, and the encapsulation layer220may not be formed at (e.g., in or on) the bonding area PA2, or may be removed at (e.g., in or on) the bonding area PA2.

In an exemplary embodiment, a touch-sensing part (e.g., a touch sensor) may be formed on the encapsulation layer220.

For example, a lower touch insulation layer310may be formed on the encapsulation layer220. A first sensing conductive pattern may be formed on the lower touch insulation layer310. The first sensing conductive pattern may include a bridge pattern320. A touch interlayer insulation layer330may be formed on the first sensing conductive pattern. A via hole may be formed through the touch interlayer insulation layer330to expose the bridge pattern320.

Referring toFIG.16, a passivation layer is formed on the second intermediate conductive layers CP1cand CP2cand the cladding layer172at (e.g., in or on) the bonding area PA2. For example, the passivation layer may include a lower passivation layer312formed from the same layer as that of the lower touch insulation layer310, and an upper passivation layer332formed from the same layer as that of the touch interlayer insulation layer330. The passivation layer may have via holes exposing the second intermediate conductive layers CP1cand CP2c.

Thereafter, as illustrated inFIGS.3and5, a second sensing conductive pattern is formed at (e.g., in or on) the display area DA, and upper conductive layers CP1dand CP2dof the connection pads CP1and CP2are formed at (e.g., in or on) the bonding area PA2. The upper conductive layers CP1dand CP2dmay extend (e.g., may pass) through the passivation layer to be electrically connected to (e.g., to electrically contact) the second intermediate conductive layers CP1cand CP2c.

The lower touch insulation layer310and the touch interlayer insulation layer330may each include an inorganic insulation material. For example, the lower touch insulation layer310and the touch interlayer insulation layer330may each include silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon carbide, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, the lower touch insulation layer310and the touch interlayer insulation layer330may include an insulating metal oxide, for example, such as aluminum oxide, tantalum oxide, hafnium oxide, zirconium oxide, titanium oxide, and/or the like. In an exemplary embodiment, the lower touch insulation layer310and the touch interlayer insulation layer330may include silicon nitride.

The first sensing conductive pattern and the second sensing conductive pattern include a conductive material. For example, the first sensing conductive pattern and the second sensing conductive pattern may each include a metal, a conductive metal oxide, a conductive polymer, graphene, carbon nano tube, or a combination thereof. For example, the metal may include molybdenum, silver, titanium, copper, aluminum, or an alloy thereof. For example, the metal may be provided to have a shape of a continuous thin film or a nano wire. For example, the conductive metal oxide may include indium tin oxide, indium zinc oxide, zinc tin oxide, indium oxide, zinc oxide, tin oxide, or a combination thereof. The first sensing conductive pattern and the second sensing conductive pattern may each have a single-layer structure or a multi-layered structure including different materials.

Thereafter, a driving part (e.g., a driver or a driving circuit) DC including a driving chip may be attached to (e.g., may be bonded on) the bonding area PA2. In an exemplary embodiment, the driving part DC may be attached to (e.g., may be bonded on) the bonding area PA2by hot-pressing, supersonic welding, and/or the like, and may be electrically connected to the connection pads CP1and CP2by the conductive bonding members BP1and BP2.

According to one or more exemplary embodiments, the cladding layer172including an organic material is not exposed to the exterior (e.g., to the outside). Thus, the cladding layer172may be prevented or substantially prevented from absorbing moisture and/or from swelling in an environment with high humidity and/or high temperature. Thus, bonding defects, for example, such as interface separation of the connection pads and the bonding members, may be prevented or reduced.

Furthermore, the cladding layer172has a reduced thickness. Thus, protrusion of the cladding layer172may be prevented or substantially prevented. Accordingly, effects caused by swelling of the cladding layer172may be reduced, and a contact area of the connection pads and the bonding members may be increased.

FIGS.17and18are cross-sectional views illustrating a display device according to various exemplary embodiments.

Referring toFIG.17, connection pads CP1and CP2disposed at (e.g., in or on) a bonding area PA2may include lower conductive layers CP1aand CP2a, first intermediate conductive layers CP1band CP2b, second intermediate conductive layers CP1cand CP2c, third intermediate conductive layers CP1eand CP2e, and upper conductive layers CP1dand CP2d, respectively.

In an exemplary embodiment, the lower conductive layer CP1aof a first connection pad CP1may be formed from the same layer as that of a first gate metal pattern disposed at (e.g., in or on) the display area. For example, the lower conductive layer CP1amay be disposed between the first insulation layer130and the second insulation layer140. The lower conductive layer CP2aof a second connection pad CP2may be formed from the same layer as that of a second gate metal pattern disposed at (e.g., in or on) the display area. For example, the lower conductive layer CP2amay be disposed between the second insulation layer140and the third insulation layer150.

The first intermediate conductive layers CP1band CP2bof the connection pads CP1and CP2may be formed from the same layer as that of a first source metal pattern disposed at (e.g., in or on) the display area. For example, the first intermediate conductive layers CP1band CP2bmay be disposed between the third insulation layer150and the fourth insulation layer. The fourth insulation layer may include an inorganic layer162without an organic layer.

The second intermediate conductive layers CP1cand CP2cof the connection pads CP1and CP2may be formed from the same layer as that of a second source metal pattern disposed at (e.g., in or on) the display area. For example, the second intermediate conductive layers CP1cand CP2cmay be disposed on the fourth insulation layer.

The third intermediate conductive layers CP1eand CP2eof the connection pads CP1and CP2may be formed from the same layer as that of a sensing conductive pattern of the touch-sensing part disposed at (e.g., in or on) the display area. For example, the third intermediate conductive layers CP1eand CP2emay be formed from the same layer as that of the first sensing conductive pattern.

The upper conductive layers CP1dand CP2dof the connection pads CP1and CP2may be formed from the same layer as that of a sensing conductive pattern of the touch-sensing part disposed at (e.g., in or on) the display area. For example, the upper conductive layers CP1dand CP2dmay be formed from the same layer as that of the second sensing conductive pattern.

A cladding layer172is disposed at (e.g., in or on) the bonding area PA2to cover at least a portion of the second intermediate conductive layers CP1cand CP2c. In an exemplary embodiment, the cladding layer172may be formed from the same layer as that of a fifth insulation layer disposed at (e.g., in or on) the display area, and may include an organic material. In an exemplary embodiment, the cladding layer172may cover at least side surfaces of the second intermediate conductive layers CP1cand CP2c.

A passivation layer including an inorganic material may be disposed on the cladding layer172. For example, the passivation layer may be formed from the same layer as that of the lower touch insulation layer310, the upper touch insulation layer330, or a combination thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, the passivation layer may include a lower passivation layer312and an upper passivation layer332. The passivation layer may extend to be partially disposed under the upper conductive layers CP1dand CP2d.

In an exemplary embodiment, the third intermediate conductive layers CP1eand CP2emay be partially disposed between the lower passivation layer312and the upper passivation layer332.

Referring toFIG.18, connection pads CP1and CP2disposed at (e.g., in or on) a bonding area PA2may include lower conductive layers CP1aand CP2a, intermediate conductive layers CP1band CP2b, and upper conductive layers CP1dand CP2d, respectively.

In an exemplary embodiment, the lower conductive layer CP1aof a first connection pad CP1may be formed from the same layer as that of a first gate metal pattern disposed at (e.g., in or on) the display area. For example, the lower conductive layer CP1amay be disposed between the first insulation layer130and the second insulation layer140. The lower conductive layer CP2aof a second connection pad CP2may be formed from the same layer as that of a second gate metal pattern disposed at (e.g., in or on) the display area. For example, the lower conductive layer CP2amay be disposed between the second insulation layer140and the third insulation layer150.

The intermediate conductive layers CP1band CP2bof the connection pads CP1and CP2may be formed from the same layer as that of a first source metal pattern or a second source metal pattern, which are disposed at (e.g., in or on) the display area.

The upper conductive layers CP1dand CP2dof the connection pads CP1and CP2may be formed from the same layer as that of a sensing conductive pattern of the touch-sensing part disposed at (e.g., in or on) the display area. For example, the upper conductive layers CP1dand CP2dmay be formed from the same layer as that of the second sensing conductive pattern.

A cladding layer172is disposed at (e.g., in or on) the bonding area PA2to cover at least a portion of the intermediate conductive layers CP1band CP2b. In an exemplary embodiment, the cladding layer172may include an organic material. In an exemplary embodiment, the cladding layer172may cover at least side surfaces of the intermediate conductive layers CP1band CP2b.

A passivation layer including an inorganic material may be disposed on the cladding layer172. For example, the passivation layer may be formed from the same layer as that of the lower touch insulation layer310, the upper touch insulation layer330, or a combination thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, the passivation layer may include a lower passivation layer312and an upper passivation layer332. The passivation layer may extend to be partially disposed under the upper conductive layers CP1dand CP2d.

As illustrated inFIGS.17and18, the connection pads in one or more exemplary embodiments may have various configurations. However, the present inventive concept is not limited to the examples shown in the exemplary embodiments described herein, and the connection pads may have various suitable or desired configurations as would be known to those skilled in the art within the spirit and scope of the present inventive concept.

For example, when a touch-sensing part (e.g., a touch sensor) of a display device does not include a lower touch insulation layer, a passivation layer at (e.g., in or on) a bonding area may have a single-layer structure.

For example, a layer for forming an upper conductive layer of a connection pad is not limited to a conductive layer for forming a touch-sensing part (e.g., a touch sensor) with a capacitance type, and a conductive layer for forming a touch-sensing part (e.g., a touch sensor) with various suitable types or sensors may be used for forming the upper conductive layer.

For example, a layer for forming a cladding layer is not limited to a second via insulation layer. The cladding layer may be formed from the same layer as that of a first via insulation layer, or may be formed individually.

For example, lower conductive layers of a first connection pad and a second connection pad may be formed from the same layer.

Furthermore, the present inventive concept is not limited thereto a display device including a connection pad including an aluminum-containing layer. For example, the connection pad may include various suitable or desired metals or alloys thereof.

One or more exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept may be applied to various kinds of display devices. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, one or more exemplary embodiments may be applied to a vehicle-display device, a ship-display device, an aircraft-display device, portable communication devices, display devices for display and/or for information transfer, a medical-display device, and/or the like.

The foregoing is illustrative of exemplary embodiments and is not to be construed as limiting thereof. Although some exemplary embodiments have been described, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications are possible in the exemplary embodiments without departing from the aspects and features of the present inventive concept. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the spirit and scope of the present inventive concept. Therefore, it is to be understood that the foregoing is illustrative of various exemplary embodiments and is not to be construed as limited to the specific exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, and that various modifications to the disclosed exemplary embodiments, as well as to other exemplary embodiments, are intended to be included within the spirit and scope of the present inventive concept, as set forth in the following claims and equivalents thereof.