Patent ID: 12201003

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS

As the present invention allows for various changes and numerous embodiments, particular embodiments will be illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the written description. However, this is not intended to limit the present invention to particular modes of practice, and it is to be appreciated that all changes, equivalents, and substitutes that do not depart from the spirit and technical scope of the present invention are encompassed in the present invention.

It will be understood that, although the terms “first”, “second”, etc. 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. For instance, a first element discussed below could be termed a second element without departing from the scope of the present invention. Similarly, the second element could also be termed the first element. In the disclosure, the singular expressions are intended to include the plural expressions as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

It will be further understood that the terms “comprise”, “include”, “have”, etc. used in the disclosure, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations of them but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof. In addition, when a first part such as a layer, film, region, plat, etc. is “on” a second part, the first part may be not only “directly on” the second part but a third part may intervene between them. Furthermore, in the disclosure, when a first part such as a layer, film, region, plat, etc. is formed on a second part, a direction in which the first part is formed is not limited to an upper direction of the second part, but may include a side or a lower direction of the second part. To the contrary, when a first part such as a layer, film, region, plat, etc. is “under” a second part, the first part may be not only “directly under” the second part but also a third part may intervene between them.

Advantages and features of the present invention and methods of achieving them will become apparent with reference to the embodiments described below in detail in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and may be implemented in various different forms. In the following description, when a first part is connected to a second part, this includes not only the case where the first part is directly connected to the second part, but also the case where a third part is interposed therebetween and they are electrically connected to each other. In embodiments of the present invention, “connection” between two components may mean to encompass both an electrical connection and a physical connection.

Hereinafter, a display device according to embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to drawings related to embodiments of the present invention.

FIG.1is a perspective view illustrating a display device10according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.1, the display device10may be applied to portable electronic devices such as a mobile phone, a smart phone, a tablet personal computer (tablet PC), a mobile communication terminal, an electronic notebook, an electronic book, a portable multimedia player (PMP), a navigation device, and an ultra-mobile PC (UMPC). For example, the display device10may be applied as a display unit of other types of electronic devices, including but not limited to, televisions, laptop computers, monitors, electronic billboards, or Internet of Things (IoT). As other examples, the display device10may be applied to wearable devices such as a smart watch, a watch phone, a glasses-type display, and a head mounted display (HMD).

The display device10may have a planar shape similar such as a rectangle. For example, the display device10may have a planar shape similar to a rectangle having a short side in an X-axis direction and a long side in a Y-axis direction. A corner portion where the short side in the X-axis direction and the long side in the Y-axis direction meet may be formed round to have a predetermined curvature or formed at a right angle. The planar shape of the display device10may not be limited to a rectangle. For example, the planar shape of the display device10may be formed to have a shape similar to a polygon, a circle, or an ellipse.

The display device10may include a display panel100, a display driver200, a circuit board300, and a touch driver400.

The display panel100may include a main area MA and a sub area SBA. The main area MA may include a display area DA and a non-display area. The display area DA includes pixels that emit light to display an image. The non-display area NDA is disposed partially or completely around the display area DA. The display area DA may emit light from a plurality of emission areas or a plurality of opening areas. For example, each pixel of the display panel100may include a pixel circuit including switching elements, a pixel defining layer defining an emission area or an opening area, and a self-light emitting element.

For example, the self-light emitting element may include at least one of an organic light emitting diode including an organic light emitting layer, a quantum dot light emitting diode including a quantum dot light emitting layer, an inorganic light emitting diode including an inorganic semiconductor, or a micro light emitting diode (Micro LED), but the present invention is not limited thereto.

The non-display area NDA may be an area outside the display area DA. The non-display area NDA may be defined as an edge area of the main area MA of the display panel100. The non-display area NDA may include a gate driver supplying gate signals to gate lines and fan outline lines connecting the display driver200and the display area DA.

The sub area SBA may extend from one side of the main area MA. The sub area SBA may include a flexible material capable of being bent, folded, or rolled. For example, when the sub area SBA is bent, the sub area SBA may overlap the main area MA in a thickness direction (Z-axis direction). The sub area SBA may include a pad unit connected to the display driver200and the circuit board300. In one embodiment, the sub area SBA may be omitted, and the display driver200and the pad unit may be disposed in the non-display area NDA.

The display driver200may output signals and voltages for driving the display panel100. The display driver200may supply data voltages to data lines. In one embodiment, the display driver200may supply a power source voltage to a power source line and may supply a gate control signal to the gate driver. The display driver200may be formed of an integrated circuit (IC) and mounted on the display panel100by a chip-on-glass (COG) method, a chip-on-plastic (COP) method, or an ultrasonic bonding method. For example, the display driver200may be disposed in the sub area SBA, and may overlap the main area MA in the thickness direction (Z-axis direction) by bending the sub area SBA. For another example, the display driver200may be mounted on the circuit board300.

The circuit board300may be attached to the pad unit of the display panel100by an anisotropic conductive film (ACF). Lead lines of the circuit board300may be electrically connected to the pad unit of the display panel100. The circuit board300may be a flexible printed circuit board, a printed circuit board, or a flexible film such as a chip-on-film.

The touch driver400may be mounted on the circuit board300. The touch driver400may be connected to a touch sensing unit of the display panel100. The touch driver400may supply a touch driving signal to a plurality of touch electrodes of the touch sensing unit and sense a change amount of capacitance between the plurality of touch electrodes. For example, the touch driving signal may be a pulse signal having a predetermined frequency. The touch driver400may sense whether there is an input based on the amount by which the capacitance between the plurality of touch electrodes changes and then may calculate corresponding input coordinates. The touch driver400may be formed of an integrated circuit (IC).

FIG.2is a cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment of the display device ofFIG.1.

Referring toFIG.2, the display panel100may include a display unit DU, a touch sensing unit TSU, and a polarizing film POL. The display unit DU may include a substrate SUB, a transistor layer TFTL, a light emitting element layer EML, and an encapsulation layer TFEL. The substrate SUB may be a base substrate or a base member. The substrate SUB may be a flexible substrate capable of being bent, folded, or rolled. For example, the substrate SUB may include a polymer resin such as polyimide (PI), but the present invention is not limited thereto. In another example, the substrate SUB may include a glass material or a metal material.

The transistor layer TFTL (or thin film transistor layer) may be disposed on the substrate SUB. The transistor layer TFTL may include a plurality of transistors (or thin film transistors) constituting a pixel circuit of each pixel. The transistor layer TFTL may further include gate lines, data lines, power source lines, gate control lines, fan out lines connecting the display driver200and the data lines, and lead lines connecting the display driver200and the pad unit. Each of the transistors may include a semiconductor region, a source electrode, a drain electrode, and a gate electrode. For example, when the gate driver is formed on one side of the non-display area NDA of the display panel100, the gate driver may include transistors.

The transistor layer TFTL may be disposed in the display area DA, the non-display area NDA, and the sub area SBA. In the transistor layer TFTL, the transistors of each of the pixels, the gate lines, the data lines, and the power source lines may be disposed in the display area DA. In the transistor layer TFTL, the gate control lines and the fan out lines may be disposed in the non-display area NDA. In the transistor layer TFTL, the lead lines may be disposed in the sub area SBA.

The light emitting element layer EML may be disposed on the transistor layer TFTL. The light emitting element layer EML may include a plurality of light emitting elements and pixel defining layers. Each of the plurality of light emitting elements includes a first electrode, a light emitting layer, and a second electrode that are sequentially stacked and emit light. The pixel defining layers define corresponding ones of the pixels. The plurality of light emitting elements of the light emitting element layer EML may be disposed in the display area DA.

For example, the light emitting layer may be an organic light emitting layer including an organic material. The light emitting layer may include a hole transport layer, an organic light emitting layer, and an electron transport layer. When the first electrode receives a predetermined voltage through a transistor of the transistor layer TFTL and the second electrode receives a cathode voltage, holes and electrons may move to the organic light emitting layer through the hole transport layer and the electron transport layer, respectively. The holes and electrons combine with each other in the organic light emitting layer to induce the emission of light. For example, the first electrode may be an anode electrode and the second electrode may be a cathode electrode, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

For another example, the plurality of light emitting elements may include a quantum dot light emitting diode including a quantum dot light emitting layer, an inorganic light emitting diode including an inorganic semiconductor, or a micro light emitting diode.

The encapsulation layer TFEL may cover upper and side surfaces of the light emitting element layer EML and may protect the light emitting element layer EML. The encapsulation layer TFEL may include at least one inorganic layer and at least one organic layer for encapsulating the light emitting element layer EML.

The touch sensing unit TSU (or input sensing unit) may be disposed on the encapsulation layer TFEL. The touch sensing unit TSU may include a plurality of touch electrodes and touch lines. The plurality of touch electrodes sense a user's touch in a capacitive manner. The touch lines connect the plurality of touch electrodes and the touch driver400. For example, the touch sensing unit TSU may sense a user's touch in a mutual capacitance method or a self-capacitance method.

For another example, the touch sensing unit TSU may be disposed on a separate substrate disposed on the display unit DU. In this case, the substrate supporting the touch sensing unit TSU may be a base member that encapsulates the display unit DU.

The plurality of touch electrodes of the touch sensing unit TSU may be disposed in a touch sensor area overlapping the display area DA. The touch lines of the touch sensing unit TSU may be disposed in a touch peripheral area overlapping the non-display area NDA.

The polarizing film POL may be disposed on the touch sensing unit TSU. The polarizing film POL may be attached on the touch sensing unit TSU by an optically clear adhesive film (OCA film) or an optically clear resin (OCR). For example, the polarizing film POL may include a phase retardation film, such as a linear polarizer and a λ/4 wave plate (Quarter-Wave Plate). The phase retardation film and the linear polarizer may be sequentially stacked on the touch sensing unit TSU.

FIG.3is a plan view illustrating an embodiment of a display unit DU of the display device ofFIG.2.

Referring toFIG.3, the display unit DU may include the display area DA and the non-display area NDA. The display area DA may be an area displaying an image. For example, the display area DA may be a central area of the display panel100. The display area DA may include a plurality of pixels SP, a plurality of gate lines GL, a plurality of data lines DL, and a plurality of power source lines VL. Each of the plurality of pixels SP may be defined as a minimum unit that outputs light.

The plurality of gate lines GL may supply a gate signal (received from the gate driver210) to the plurality of pixels SP. The plurality of gate lines GL may extend in the X-axis direction and may be spaced apart from each other in the Y-axis direction crossing the X-axis direction.

The plurality of data lines DL may supply a data voltage (received from the display driver200) to the plurality of pixels SP. The plurality of data lines DL may extend in the Y-axis direction and may be spaced apart from each other in the X-axis direction.

The plurality of power source lines VL may supply a power source voltage (received from the display driver200) to the plurality of pixels SP. Here, the power source voltage may be at least one of a driving voltage, an initialization voltage, or a reference voltage. The plurality of power source lines VL may extend in the Y-axis direction and may be spaced apart from each other in the X-axis direction, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

The non-display area NDA may partially or completely surround the display area DA. The non-display area NDA may include the gate driver210, fan out lines FOL, and gate control lines GCL. The gate driver210may generate a plurality of gate signals based on the gate control signal and may sequentially supply the plurality of gate signals to the plurality of gate lines GL according to a set order.

The fan out lines FOL may extend from the display driver200to the display area DA at corresponding angles. The fan out lines FOL may supply the data voltage received from the display driver200to the plurality of data lines DL.

A gate control line GCL may extend from the display driver200to the gate driver210. The gate control line GCL may supply the gate control signal received from the display driver200to the gate driver210.

The sub area SBA may include the display driver200, a display pad area DPA, and first and second touch pad areas TPA1and TPA2. The display driver200may output signals and voltages for driving the display panel100to the fan out lines FOL. The display driver200may supply data voltages to the data lines DL through corresponding ones of the fan out lines FOL. The data voltages may be supplied to the plurality of pixels SP and may determine luminances of light emitted by the plurality of pixels SP. The display driver200may supply the gate control signals to the gate driver210through the gate control lines GCL.

The display pad area DPA, the first touch pad area TPA1, and the second touch pad area TPA2may be disposed at edges of the sub area SBA. The display pad area DPA, the first touch pad area TPA1, and the second touch pad area TPA2may be electrically connected to the circuit board300(e.g., refer toFIG.2) by a low-resistance and high-reliability material such as an anisotropic conductive film or SAP (Self Assembly Anisotropic Conductive Paste).

The display pad area DPA may include a plurality of display pad units DP. The plurality of display pad units DP may be connected to a graphic system through the circuit board300(e.g., refer toFIG.2). The plurality of display pad units DP may be connected to the circuit board300to receive digital video data and supply the digital video data to the display driver200.

FIG.4is a plan view illustrating a touch sensing unit TSU of the display device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.4, the touch sensing unit TSU may include a touch sensor area TSA that senses a user's touch and a touch peripheral area TPA disposed partially or entirely around the touch sensor area TSA. The touch sensor area TSA may overlap the display area DA of the display unit DU, and the touch peripheral area TPA may overlap the non-display area NDA of the display unit DU.

The touch sensor area TSA may include a plurality of touch electrodes SEN (or sensing electrodes) and a plurality of dummy electrodes DME. The plurality of touch electrodes SEN may form mutual capacitance or self-capacitance in order to sense a touch of an object or a person.

The plurality of touch electrodes SEN may include a plurality of driving electrodes TE and a plurality of sensing electrodes RE. The plurality of driving electrodes TE may be arranged in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. The plurality of driving electrodes TE may be spaced apart from each other in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. The driving electrodes TE adjacent to each other in the Y-axis direction may be electrically connected to each other through a bridge electrode CE.

The plurality of driving electrodes TE may be connected to a first touch pad unit TP1through a driving line TL. The driving line TL may include a lower driving line TLa and an upper driving line TLb. For example, the driving electrodes TE disposed below the touch sensor area TSA may be connected to the first touch pad unit TP1through a lower driving line TLa. The driving electrodes TE disposed above the touch sensor area TSA may be connected to the first touch pad unit TP1through an upper driving line TLb. The lower driving line TLa may pass through a lower side of the touch peripheral area TPA and extend to the first touch pad unit TP1. The upper driving line TLb may extend to the first touch pad unit TP1via upper, left, and lower sides of the touch peripheral area TPA. The first touch pad unit TP1may be connected to the touch driver400through the circuit board300.

The bridge electrode CE may be bent at least once. For example, the bridge electrode CE may have an angle bracket shape (“<” or “>”), but the planar shape of the bridge electrode CE is not limited thereto. The driving electrodes TE adjacent to each other in the Y-axis direction may be connected to each other by a plurality of bridge electrodes CE. Even if one of the bridge electrodes CE is disconnected, the driving electrodes TE may be stably connected to each other through the remaining bridge electrodes CE. The driving electrodes TE adjacent to each other may be connected to each other by two bridge electrodes CE, but the number of bridge electrodes CE is not limited thereto.

The bridge electrode CE may be disposed on a different layer from the plurality of driving electrodes TE and the plurality of sensing electrodes RE. The sensing electrodes RE, that are adjacent to each other in the X-axis direction, may be electrically connected to each other through a connection part disposed on the same layer as the plurality of driving electrodes TE or the plurality of sensing electrodes RE. The driving electrodes TE, that are adjacent to each other in the Y-axis direction, may be electrically connected to each other through the bridge electrode CE disposed on a different layer from the plurality of driving electrodes TE or the plurality of sensing electrodes RE. Therefore, even if the bridge electrode CE overlaps the plurality of sensing electrodes RE in the Z-axis direction, the plurality of driving electrodes TE and the plurality of sensing electrodes RE may be insulated from each other. Mutual capacitance may be formed between a driving electrode TE and a sensing electrode RE.

The plurality of sensing electrodes RE may extend in the X-axis direction and may be spaced apart from each other in the Y-axis direction. The plurality of sensing electrodes RE may be arranged in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. The sensing electrodes RE, that are adjacent to each other in the X-axis direction, may be electrically connected to each other through the connection part.

The plurality of sensing electrodes RE may be connected to the second touch pad unit TP2through a sensing line RL. For example, the sensing electrodes RE disposed on the right side of the touch sensor area TSA may be connected to the second touch pad unit TP2through the sensing line RL. The sensing line RL may extend to the second touch pad unit TP2via right and lower sides of the touch peripheral area TPA. The second touch pad unit TP2may be connected to the touch driver400through the circuit board300.

Each of the plurality of dummy electrodes DME may be surrounded by the driving electrode TE or the sensing electrode RE. Each of the plurality of dummy electrodes DME may be spaced apart from and insulated from the driving electrode TE or the sensing electrode RE. Accordingly, the dummy electrodes DME may be electrically floated.

The display pad area DPA, the first touch pad area TPA1, and the second touch pad area TPA2may be disposed at edges of the sub area SBA. The display pad area DPA, the first touch pad area TPA1, and the second touch pad area TPA2may be electrically connected to the circuit board300by a low-resistance and high-reliability material such as, but not limited to, an anisotropic conductive film or SAP.

The first touch pad area TPA1may be disposed on one side of the display pad area DPA and may include a plurality of first touch pad units TP1. The plurality of first touch pad units TP1may be electrically connected to the touch driver400disposed on the circuit board300. The plurality of first touch pad units TP1may supply the touch driving signal to the plurality of driving electrodes TE through a plurality of driving lines TL.

The second touch pad area TPA2may be disposed on the other (or opposing) side of the display pad area DPA and may include a plurality of second touch pad units TP2. The plurality of second touch pad units TP2may be electrically connected to the touch driver400disposed on the circuit board300. The touch driver400may receive a touch sensing signal through a plurality of sensing lines RL connected to the plurality of second touch pad units TP2, and may sense a change in mutual capacitance between the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE.

In another example, the touch driver400may supply the touch driving signal to each of the plurality of driving electrodes TE and the plurality of sensing electrodes RE, and may receive the touch sensing signal from each of the plurality of driving electrodes TE and the plurality of sensing electrodes RE. The touch driver400may sense a change in the amount of charges in each of the plurality of driving electrodes TE and the plurality of sensing electrodes RE based on the touch sensing signal.

FIG.5is an enlarged plan view of an area A1of the touch sensing unit ofFIG.4according to an embodiment.FIG.6is an enlarged plan view of a part of the display device according to an embodiment. Compared toFIG.5,FIG.6further shows emission areas EA1to EA3.

Referring toFIGS.5and6, the plurality of driving electrodes TE and the plurality of sensing electrodes RE (and the plurality of dummy electrodes DME ofFIG.4) may be disposed on the same layer and may be spaced apart from each other according to a predetermined pattern.

The plurality of driving electrodes TE may be arranged in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. The plurality of driving electrodes TE may be spaced apart from each other in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. The driving electrodes TE adjacent to each other in the Y-axis direction may be electrically connected to each other through at least one of the bridge electrodes CE.

The plurality of sensing electrodes RE may extend in the X-axis direction and may be spaced apart from each other in the Y-axis direction. The plurality of sensing electrodes RE may be arranged in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. The sensing electrodes RE, that are adjacent to each other in the X-axis direction, may be electrically connected to each other through the connection part RCE. For example, the connection part RCE of the sensing electrodes RE may be disposed within the shortest distance between the driving electrodes TE adjacent to each other.

The plurality of bridge electrodes CE may be disposed on a different layer from the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE. The bridge electrode CE may include a first portion CEa and a second portion CEb. For example, the first portion CEa of the bridge electrode CE may be connected to the driving electrode TE disposed on one side through a first contact hole CNT1and may extend in a third direction DR3. The second portion CEb of the bridge electrode CE may be bent (or disposed at an angle) from the first portion CEa in an area overlapping the sensing electrode RE, may extend in a second direction DR2, and may be connected to the driving electrode TE disposed on the other side through a first contact hole CNT1. Hereinafter, a first direction DR1may be a direction between the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, the second direction DR2may be a direction between an opposite direction of the Y-axis and the X-axis direction, the third direction DR3may be a direction opposite to the first direction DR1, and a fourth direction DR4may be a direction opposite to the second direction DR2. Accordingly, each of the plurality of bridge electrodes CE may connect adjacent ones of the driving electrodes TE, that are adjacent to each other in the Y-axis direction.

For example, the plurality of driving electrodes TE and the plurality of sensing electrodes RE (and the plurality of dummy electrodes DME ofFIG.4) may be formed in a mesh structure when viewed on a plane. The plurality of driving electrodes TE and the plurality of sensing electrodes RE may surround each of first to third emission areas EA1, EA2, and EA3of a pixel group PG when viewed on a plane. Accordingly, the plurality of driving electrodes TE and the plurality of sensing electrodes RE may not overlap the first to third emission areas EA1, EA2, and EA3. Also, the plurality of bridge electrodes CE may not overlap the first to third emission areas EA1, EA2, and EA3. Accordingly, the display device10may prevent luminance of light emitted from the first to third emission areas EA1, EA2, and EA3from being reduced by the touch sensing unit TSU.

Each of the plurality of driving electrodes TE may include a first portion TEa extending in the first direction DR1and a second portion TEb extending in the second direction DR2. Each of the plurality of sensing electrodes RE may include a first portion REa extending in the first direction DR1and a second portion REb extending in the second direction DR2.

Each of the plurality of pixels may include first to third sub-pixels, and each of the first to third sub-pixels may include the first to third emission areas EA1, EA2, and EA3. For example, the first emission area EA1may emit light of a first color (e.g., red light), the second emission area EA2may emit light of a second color (e.g., green light), and a third emission area EA3may emit light of a third color (e.g., blue light), but may emit light of a different combination of colors in another embodiment.

In one embodiment, one pixel group PG may include one first emission area EA1, two second emission areas EA2, and one third emission area EA3to express a white grayscale, but the configuration of the pixel group PG is not limited thereto. For example, a white grayscale may be expressed by a combination of light emitted from one first emission area EA1, light emitted from two second emission areas EA2, and light emitted from one third emission area EA3. As will be discussed in greater detail below, the light blocking members (or areas) may be arranged in a predetermined manner relative to the emission areas EA1, EA2, and EA3.

FIG.7is a cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment of the display device taken along line I-I′ ofFIG.6according to an embodiment. Referring toFIG.7, the display panel100may include the display unit DU, the touch sensing unit TSU, and the polarizing film POL.

The display unit DU may include the substrate SUB, the transistor layer TFTL, the light emitting element layer EML, and the encapsulation layer TFEL. The substrate SUB may be a base substrate or a base member.

The transistor layer TFTL may include a first buffer layer BF1, a light blocking layer BML, a second buffer layer BF2, a transistor TFT, a gate insulating layer GI, a first interlayer insulating layer ILD1, a capacitor electrode CPE, a second interlayer insulating layer ILD2, a first connection electrode CNE1, a first passivation layer PAS1, a second connection electrode CNE2, and a second passivation layer PAS2.

The first buffer layer BF1may be disposed on the substrate SUB. The first buffer layer BF1may include an inorganic layer capable of preventing penetration of air or moisture. For example, the first buffer layer BF1may include a plurality of inorganic layers alternately stacked.

The light blocking layer BML may be disposed on the first buffer layer BF1. For example, the light blocking layer BML may be formed of a single layer or multiple layers made of any one of molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), or copper (Cu) or an alloy thereof. In another example, the light blocking layer BML may be an organic layer including a black pigment.

The second buffer layer BF2may cover the first buffer layer BF1and the light blocking layer BML. The second buffer layer BF2may include an inorganic layer capable of preventing penetration of air or moisture. For example, the second buffer layer BF2may include a plurality of inorganic layers alternately stacked.

The transistor TFT (e.g., a thin film transistor) may be disposed on the second buffer layer BF2and may be included in a pixel circuit provided for each of the plurality of pixels. For example, the transistor TFT may be a driving transistor or a switching transistor of the pixel circuit.

The transistor TFT may include a semiconductor region ACT, a source electrode SE, a drain electrode DE, and a gate electrode GE. The semiconductor region ACT, the source electrode SE, and the drain electrode DE may be disposed on the second buffer layer BF2. The semiconductor region ACT, the source electrode SE, and the drain electrode DE may overlap the light blocking layer BML in a thickness direction. The semiconductor region ACT may overlap the gate electrode GE in the thickness direction and may be insulated from the gate electrode GE by the gate insulating layer GI. The source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE may be provided by changing a material of the semiconductor region ACT to have conductivity.

The gate electrode GE may be disposed on the gate insulating layer GI. The gate electrode GE may overlap the semiconductor region ACT, with the gate insulating layer GI interposed therebetween.

The gate insulating layer GI may be disposed on the semiconductor region ACT, the source electrode SE, and the drain electrode DE. For example, the gate insulating layer GI may cover the semiconductor region ACT, the source electrode SE, the drain electrode DE, and the second buffer layer BF2, and insulate the semiconductor region ACT and the gate electrode GE from each other. The gate insulating layer GI may include a contact hole through which the first connection electrode CNE1passes.

The first interlayer insulating layer ILD1may cover the gate electrode GE and the gate insulating layer GI. The first interlayer insulating layer ILD1may include a contact hole through which the first connection electrode CNE1passes. The contact hole of the first interlayer insulating layer ILD1may be connected to the contact hole of the gate insulating layer GI and a contact hole of the second interlayer insulating layer ILD2.

The capacitor electrode CPE may be disposed on the first interlayer insulating layer ILD1. The capacitor electrode CPE may overlap the gate electrode GE in the thickness direction. The capacitor electrode CPE and the gate electrode GE may form capacitance.

The second interlayer insulating layer ILD2may cover the capacitor electrode CPE and the first interlayer insulating layer ILD1. The second interlayer insulating layer ILD2may include a contact hole through which the first connection electrode CNE1passes. The contact hole of the second interlayer insulating layer ILD2may be connected to the contact hole of the first interlayer insulating layer ILD1and the contact hole of the gate insulating layer GI.

The first connection electrode CNE1may be disposed on the second interlayer insulating layer ILD2. The first connection electrode CNE1may connect the drain electrode DE of the transistor TFT and the second connection electrode CNE2. The first connection electrode CNE1may be inserted into contact holes provided in the second interlayer insulating layer ILD2, the first interlayer insulating layer ILD1, and the gate insulating layer GI to contact the drain electrode DE of the transistor TFT.

The first passivation layer PAS1may cover the first connection electrode CNE1and the second interlayer insulating layer ILD2. The first passivation layer PAS1may protect the transistor TFT. The first passivation layer PAS1may include a contact hole through which the second connection electrode CNE2passes.

The second connection electrode CNE2may be disposed on the first passivation layer PAS1. The second connection electrode CNE2may connect the first connection electrode CNE1and a pixel electrode AND of a light emitting element LED. The second connection electrode CNE2may be inserted into the contact hole provided in the first passivation layer PAS1to contact the first connection electrode CNE1.

The second passivation layer PAS2may cover the second connection electrode CNE2and the first passivation layer PAS1. The second passivation layer PAS2may include a contact hole through which the pixel electrode AND of the light emitting element LED passes.

The light emitting element layer EML may be disposed on the transistor layer TFTL. The light emitting element layer EML may include the light emitting element LED and a pixel defining layer PDL. The light emitting element LED may include the pixel electrode AND, a light emitting layer EL, and a common electrode CAT.

The pixel electrode AND may be disposed on the second passivation layer PAS2. The pixel electrode AND may be disposed to overlap one of the first to third emission areas EA1, EA2, and EA3defined by the pixel defining layer PDL. The pixel electrode AND may be connected to the drain electrode DE of the transistor TFT through the first and second connection electrodes CNE1and CNE2.

The light emitting layer EL may be disposed on the pixel electrode AND. For example, the light emitting layer EL may be an organic light emitting layer made of an organic material, but the present invention is not limited thereto. When the light emitting layer EL is formed of an organic light emitting layer, the transistor TFT may apply a predetermined voltage to the pixel electrode AND of the light emitting element LED. When the common electrode CAT of the light emitting element LED receives a common voltage or a cathode voltage, holes and electrons may move to the light emitting layer EL through the hole transport layer and the electron transport layer, respectively, and may be combined with each other in the light emitting layer EL to emit light.

The common electrode CAT may be disposed on the light emitting layer EL. For example, the common electrode CAT may be implemented as a common electrode for all pixels without being separated provided for each pixel. The common electrode CAT may be disposed on the light emitting layer EL in the first to third emission areas EA1, EA2, and EA3, and disposed on the pixel defining layer PDL in areas other than the first to third emission areas EA1, EA2, and EA3.

The common electrode CAT may receive a common voltage, which, for example, may be a predetermined low potential voltage. When the pixel electrode AND receives a voltage corresponding to the data voltage and the common electrode CAT receives the low potential voltage, a potential difference may be formed between the pixel electrode AND and the common electrode CAT. This difference in potential causes the light emitting layer EL to emit light.

The pixel defining layer PDL may define the first to third emission areas EA1, EA2, and EA3. The pixel defining layer PDL may separate and insulate the pixel electrode AND of each of the plurality of light emitting elements LED.

The encapsulation layer TFEL may be disposed on the common electrode CAT to cover the plurality of light emitting elements LED. The encapsulation layer TFEL may include at least one inorganic layer and may prevent oxygen or moisture from permeating into the light emitting element layer EML. The encapsulation layer TFEL may include at least one organic layer and may protect the light emitting element layer EML from foreign substances such as dust.

The touch sensing unit TSU may be disposed on the encapsulation layer TFEL. The touch sensing unit TSU may include a third buffer layer BF3, the bridge electrode CE, a first insulating layer SIL1, the driving electrode TE, the sensing electrode RE, and a second insulating layer SIL2. The third buffer layer BF3may be disposed on the encapsulation layer TFEL. The third buffer layer BF3may have insulating and optical properties. The third buffer layer BF3may include at least one inorganic layer. In one embodiment, the third buffer layer BF3may be omitted.

The bridge electrode CE may be disposed on the third buffer layer BF3. The bridge electrode CE may be disposed on a different layer from the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE, and may connect the driving electrodes TE adjacent to each other in the Y-axis direction.

The first insulating layer SIL1may at least partially cover the bridge electrode CE and the third buffer layer BF3. The first insulating layer SIL1may have insulating and optical properties. For example, the first insulating layer SIL1may be an inorganic layer including at least one of a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxy nitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer.

The driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE may be disposed on the first insulating layer SIL1. Each of the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE may not overlap the first to third emission areas EA1, EA2, and EA3. Each of the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE may be formed of a single layer which, for example, may be made of molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), or indium tin oxide (ITO). In one embodiment, each of the driving electrode TE and the sensing electrode RE may be formed of a laminated structure of aluminum and titanium (Ti/Al/Ti), a laminated structure of aluminum and ITO (ITO/Al/ITO), an APC alloy, or a laminated structure of an APC alloy and ITO (ITO/APC/ITO).

The second insulating layer SIL2may cover the driving electrode TE, the sensing electrode RE, and the first insulating layer SIL1. The second insulating layer SIL2may have insulating and optical properties. The second insulating layer SIL2may be formed of a material which, for example, may be the same as the material of the first insulating layer SIL1.

The polarizing film POL may be disposed on the touch sensing unit TSU.

FIG.8is a plan view illustrating an embodiment of the display device in which an area A2ofFIG.4is enlarged.FIG.9is a plan view for explaining a light blocking member according to an embodiment. For convenience of description,FIG.9shows only the driving electrode TE (or touch electrode SEN) and a light blocking member BK.FIG.10is a cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment of the display device taken along line II-II′ ofFIG.8. For convenience of description,FIG.10briefly shows the light emitting element layer EML and the transistor layer TFTL (and the substrate SUB), but the display device ofFIG.10may include the light emitting element layer EML and the transistor layer TFTL described with reference toFIG.8.

Referring toFIGS.5to10, the area A2ofFIG.8may further include the light blocking member BK (or code pattern CP), and a configuration similar to the configuration described above will be briefly described or omitted. In accordance with one or more embodiments, the light blocking member BK may be referred to as a light blocking area.

Referring toFIGS.8to10, the touch sensing unit TSU may further include the light blocking member BK covering some of the plurality of touch electrodes SEN. As will be described in greater detail below, the light blocking member BK may be a position code (or code) having location information determined by the shape, arrangement, and the like of the light blocking member BK (refer toFIG.14). The position code may be arranged in a specific direction at the intersection of one or more virtual (e.g., reference) lines arranged at a predetermined periodicity (e.g., refer toFIG.14). The value of the position code may be determined by the position of the light blocking member relative to one or more of the virtual lines. The virtual lines may correspond to rows and columns. For example, the rows and columns may be defined by (e.g., overlap rows and columns of) pixels in the display panel or may be predetermined reference lines that correspond to rows and columns of the light blocking members BK. Hereinafter, in describing the location information or the position code, the light blocking member BK will be referred to as a code pattern CP.

The light blocking member BK may cover upper and side surfaces of the touch electrode SEN. The light blocking member BK may cover a portion of the driving electrode TE or a portion of the sensing electrode RE. As shown inFIG.10, the light blocking member BK may be directly disposed on the driving electrode TE (or touch electrode SEN) and may contact the driving electrode TE.

As shown inFIG.8, the light blocking member BK may surround at least one of the first to third emission areas EA1, EA2, and EA3when viewed on a plane. In this case, the light blocking member BK may have a mesh structure when viewed on a plane.

The light blocking member BK may be disposed in the non-emission area BA between the first to third emission areas EA1, EA2, and EA3when viewed on a plane (or cross-section) and may not overlap the first to third emission areas EA1, EA2, and EA3, as shown, for example, inFIG.10. Accordingly, the display device10may prevent luminance of light emitted from the first to third emission areas EA1, EA2, and EA3from being reduced by the light blocking member BK.

In an embodiment, the light blocking member BK may have a closed-loop shape. In this case, compared to an open-loop shape or the line shape, identification sensitivity of the light blocking member BK (or code pattern CP) can be improved.

The light blocking member BK may absorb light of a specific wavelength, and the touch electrode SEN may reflect light of a specific wavelength. For example, the light blocking member BK may include an infrared ray absorbing material or an ultraviolet ray absorbing material, and the plurality of touch electrodes SEN may include an infrared ray reflective material or an ultraviolet ray reflective material. For example, the light blocking member BK may include an inorganic black pigment or an organic black pigment. The inorganic black pigment may be carbon black, and the organic black pigment may include at least one of lactam black, perylene black, or aniline black, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Therefore, when the camera captures the touch sensing unit TSU using an infrared ray or an ultraviolet ray, the light blocking member BK covering a portion of the touch electrode SEN can be distinguished from the other portion of the touch electrode SEN not covered by the light blocking member BK. Since the camera (or an input device including the same) uses an infrared ray or an ultraviolet ray to identify the light blocking member BK (or code pattern CP), image quality of the display device10may not deteriorate when identifying the light blocking member BK (or code pattern CP).

The code pattern CP may be disposed over an entire area of the touch sensor area TSA of the touch sensing unit TSU. Each code pattern CP may have location information according to a specific criterion. The code pattern CP may be captured by a camera approaching the front of the display device10, and may be identified through captured video or image. At least one code pattern CP (or a combination of code patterns CP) may correspond to a value of a predetermined data code. For example, the code pattern CP disposed at a specific location may correspond to a data code designated at a corresponding location. For example, at least one code pattern CP (or a combination of code patterns CP) may have location information according to a specific criterion and may correspond to a predetermined data code on a 1:1 basis.

The display device10may receive an input by an input device (such as an input pen) by including the light blocking member BK covering some of the plurality of touch electrodes SEN (or the code pattern CP having location information determined by the shape, arrangement, and the like of the light blocking member BK). Here, the input pen may decode input coordinates based on the image (for example, the code pattern CP) captured by a built-in camera. For example, the input pen may be a smart pen, an electromagnetic pen, or an active pen, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

The display device10may perform a corresponding function based on accurate input coordinates, by receiving coordinate data generated without having to perform a complicated calculation and correction using the data code. For example, cost and power consumption can be reduced and a driving process can be simplified by the display device10. In addition, since the display device10includes the light blocking member BK covering a portion of the touch electrode SEN, the display device10may not be limited in size and may be applied to all electronic devices having a touch function.

In some embodiments, the code pattern CP may include a first code pattern CP_M (or main code pattern) and a second code pattern CP_S (or auxiliary code pattern). The light blocking member BK may include a first light blocking member BK_M (or a first part) corresponding to the first code pattern CP_M and a second light blocking member BK_S (or a second part) corresponding to the second code pattern CP_S. The first light blocking member BK_M (or first part) and the second light blocking member BK_S (or second part) may have different line widths in a width direction. As will be described later, when the input device touches or is adjacent to the display device10, the input coordinates may be determined based on the first code pattern CP_M. When the input device is separated from the display device10(for example, hovering), the input coordinates may be determined based on a combined shape of the first code pattern CP_M and the second code pattern CP_S (that is, the code pattern CP).

Referring toFIGS.8and9, the code pattern CP may be formed by overlapping the first code pattern CP_M and the second code pattern CP_S. The first code pattern CP_M may have first location information, and the second code pattern CP_S may have second location information. Although described later with reference toFIG.14, in one embodiment the first location information and the second location information may be the same.

Also, in an embodiment, the first code pattern CP_M and the second code pattern CP_S (or the first light blocking member BK_M and the second light blocking member BK_S) may have different sizes (or different areas) and different line widths. For example, as shown inFIGS.8and9, when viewed on a plane, the size of the first code pattern CP_M may be smaller than the size of the second code pattern CP_S. For example, as shown inFIG.10, a line width W1of the first code pattern CP_M may be larger than a line width W2of the second code pattern CP_S.

The line width W1of the first code pattern CP_M and the line width W2of the second code pattern CP_S may be set within a range that does not cover the viewing angle of the light emitting element LED (or pixel). For example, when light is emitted from the light emitting element LED within a range up to a reference angle Θ with respect to the substrate SUB (see, e.g.,FIG.10), the line width W1of the first code pattern CP_M may be set to a maximum value within a range in which the first code pattern CP_M does not block the light, and the line width W2of the second code pattern CP_S may be set smaller than the line width W1of the first code pattern CP_M.

In an embodiment, the first code pattern CP_M and the second code pattern CP_S may have different planar shapes. For example, the second code pattern CP_S may include a closed loop surrounding at least one of the first to third emission areas EA1, EA2, and EA3when viewed on a plane, and according to one example may have a rhombic planar shape as a whole. The first code pattern CP_M may not include a closed loop and, for example, may have a dot or X shape as a whole. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the first code pattern CP_M and the second code pattern CP_S may have the same or similar planar shape (e.g., refer toFIG.16).

FIG.11is a diagram for explaining a code pattern ofFIG.8according to an embodiment.FIG.12is a diagram illustrating a contrast ratio of the code pattern according to a hover distance.FIG.13is a plan view illustrating the code pattern.FIG.13may correspond toFIG.8.

Referring toFIGS.11to13, an input device20may include a camera21and may decode input coordinates based on an image of the display device10captured by the camera21.

Depending on the distance (or hover distance) between the input device10and the display device10, the focus depth may vary, and the number of code patterns and the contrast ratio in the captured image may vary. When the display device10includes only the first code pattern CP_M (or the first light blocking member BK_M) or the second code pattern CP_S (or the second light blocking member BK_S), there may be restrictions on expressing location.

Hereinafter, a first case CASE1and a second case CASE2will be sequentially described. First, in the first case CASE1, the input device20may be in contact with the display device10(that is, the hover distance is 0) and the camera21of the input device20and the display device10may be spaced apart by about A. For example, A may be about 23.6 mm. In this case, a first image IMAGE1of the display device10may be obtained by the camera21, and the code pattern (for example, a plurality of dots in the first image IMAGE1) may be recognized.

For example, referring toFIG.13, in the first case CASE1, an image of a first area AA1may be obtained by one sensor (for example, a sensor having a size of about 40 μm) in the camera21. Substantially only the first light blocking member BK_M (or the first code pattern CP_M) may exist in the first area AA1.

Referring toFIG.12, in a comparative example in which the display device10includes only the first light blocking member BK_M (that is, the first code pattern CP_M), the first curve CURVE1may represent a ratio (or area ratio) of the light blocking member BK or a contrast ratio of the code pattern CP in the image obtained by one sensor in the camera21. In an embodiment in which the display device10includes the first light blocking member BK_M (that is, the first code pattern CP_M) and the second light blocking member BK_S (that is, the second code pattern CP_S), the second curve CURVE2may represent a ratio of the light blocking member BK or a contrast ratio of the code pattern CP in the image obtained by one sensor in the camera21.

When the hover distance is 0, in the first curve CURVE1and the second curve CURVE2, the ratio (or contrast ratio) of the light blocking member BK may be the same or relatively high. Accordingly, the code pattern CP can be accurately recognized regardless of the presence or absence of the second light blocking member BK_S (or the second code pattern CP_S).

Next, in the second case CASE2, the input device20may be spaced apart from the display device10by a distance B (that is, the hover distance is B). In this case, the camera21of the input device20and the display device10may be spaced apart by about “A+B”. For example, B may be about 10 mm. In this case, a second image IMAGE2of the display device10may be obtained by the camera21, and in some cases, the code pattern may not be properly recognized.

For example, referring toFIG.13, in the second case CASE2, an image of a second area AA2may be obtained by one sensor in the camera21. Components other than the first light blocking member BK_M (or the first code pattern CP_M) may further exist in the second area AA2.

When the hover distance is B, in the first curve CURVE1and the second curve CURVE2ofFIG.12, the ratio (or contrast ratio) of the light blocking member BK may be relatively low. For example, based on the case where the hover distance is 0, the ratio (or contrast ratio) of the light blocking member BK in the first curve CURVE1may be reduced by about 20%, and the ratio (or contrast ratio) of the light blocking member BK in the second curve CURVE2may be reduced by about 10%. Thus, the value of the second curve CURVE2for an embodiment further including the second light blocking member BK_S (or the second code pattern CP_S) may be higher than a value of the first curve CURVE1which does not include the second light blocking member BK_S (or the second code pattern CP_S). Accordingly, in a state where the hover distance is greater than 0, the code pattern CP further including the second code pattern CP_S can be more accurately recognized.

As another example, when the input device20is spaced apart from the display device10by C (that is, the hover distance is C), an image of a third area AA3(refer toFIG.13) may be obtained by one sensor in the camera21. When the hover distance is C, in the first curve CURVE1and the second curve CURVE2ofFIG.12, the ratio (or contrast ratio) of the light blocking member BK may be lower. For example, based on the case where the hover distance is 0, the ratio (or contrast ratio) of the light blocking member BK in the first curve CURVE1may be reduced by about 35%, and the ratio (or contrast ratio) of the light blocking member BK in the first curve CURVE1may be reduced by about 20%. In this case, the code pattern including only the first code pattern CP_M may not be accurately recognized.

As described above, when the code pattern CP further includes the second code pattern CP_S in addition to the first code pattern CP_M, the code pattern CP can be more accurately recognized even in a hovering state of the input device20.

Meanwhile, when the code pattern CP includes only the second code pattern CP_S without the first code pattern CP_M, the recognition rate of the code pattern CP may be relatively low because the ratio (or area ratio) of the light blocking member BK in the image or the contrast ratio of the code pattern CP is generally low.

In addition, when the size of the first code pattern CP_M is as large as the size of the second code pattern CP_S, the first code pattern CP_M may be recognized even in a hovering state of the input device20. However, the first code pattern CP_M (that is, the first code pattern CP_M having a relatively large and thick line width) itself may be visually recognized by a user or may deteriorate light emitting characteristics of the display device10. Also, even when the input device20contacts or is adjacent to the display device10at an angle rather than perpendicularly, the code pattern CP must be recognized. However, when the code pattern CP (particularly, the first code pattern CP_M) is large, the distance between the code pattern CP and other code patterns may not be secured.

That is, deterioration in light emitting characteristics (for example, viewing angle characteristics and white angular dependency) of the display device10can be reduced or minimized by reducing or minimizing the size of the first code pattern CP_M having a large line width. In addition, input performance (in particular, input performance in a hovering state) can be maintained or improved by additionally using the second code pattern CP_S having a relatively small line width.

FIGS.14and15are plan views for explaining position codes according to an arrangement of light blocking members according to an embodiment. For convenience of description,FIG.14shows only the driving electrode TE (or touch electrode SEN) and the light blocking member BK described with reference toFIG.8. A configuration similar to the configuration described above will be briefly described or omitted.

Referring toFIGS.14and15, light blocking members BK11to BK22(or code patterns) may be substantially arranged in rows and columns when viewed on a plane. Location information may be determined by positions where the light blocking members BK11to BK22are disposed based on virtual (reference) lines L_H1, L_H2, L_V1, and L_V2corresponding to the rows and columns.

A first position code CODE_M may be composed of main light blocking members BK_M11to BK_M22(or first light blocking members and main code patterns).

An eleventh main light blocking member BK_M11may be adjacent to or aligned with at least one of a first horizontal line L_H1and a first vertical line L_V1. In one embodiment, the eleventh main light blocking member BK_M11may be positioned on the first horizontal line L_H1and may be positioned on the right side of the first vertical line L_V1. In this case, the eleventh main light blocking member BK_M11may have a value corresponding to “right”.

A twelfth main light blocking member BK_M12may be adjacent to or aligned with at least one of the first horizontal line L_H1and a second vertical line L_V2. In one embodiment, the twelfth main light blocking member BK_M12may be positioned on the first horizontal line L_H1and may be positioned on the left side of the second vertical line L_V2. In this case, the twelfth main light blocking member BK_M12may have a value corresponding to “left”.

A twenty-first main light blocking member BK_M21may be adjacent to or aligned with at least one of a second horizontal line L_H2and the first vertical line L_V1. In one embodiment, the twenty-first main light blocking member BK_M21may be positioned below the second horizontal line L_H2and may be positioned on the first vertical line L_V1. In this case, the twenty-first main light blocking member BK_M21may have a value corresponding to “down”.

A twenty-second main light blocking member BK_M22may be adjacent to or aligned with at least one of the second horizontal line L_H2and the second vertical line L_V2. In one embodiment, the twenty-second main light blocking member BK_M22may be positioned above the second horizontal line L_H2and may be positioned on the first vertical line L_V1. In this case, the twenty-second main light blocking member BK_M22may have a value corresponding to “up”.

The first position code CODE_M (first location information or first data code) may be determined by a combination of the main light blocking members BK_M11to BK_M22(or values thereof). As is evident from the above description, none of the main light blocking members in the first position code CODE_M overlap an intersection of any of the vertical lines or the horizontal lines.

Similar to the first position code CODE_M, a second position code CODE_A may be composed of auxiliary light blocking members BK_S11to BK_S22(or second light blocking members and auxiliary code patterns). However, unlike CODE_M, the auxiliary light blocking members BK_S11to BK_S22overlap intersections of the vertical and horizontal lines. For example, an eleventh auxiliary light blocking member BK_S11may be adjacent to or aligned with at least one of the first horizontal line L_H1and the first vertical line L_V1. In one embodiment, the eleventh auxiliary light blocking member BK_S11may be positioned on the first horizontal line L_H1and most of the auxiliary light blocking member BK_S11may be positioned on the right side of the first vertical line L_V1, e.g., a center point of the auxiliary light blocking member BK_S11is positioned on the right side of vertical line L_V1. In this case, the eleventh auxiliary light blocking member BK_S11may have a value corresponding to “right”.

A twelfth auxiliary light blocking member BK_S12may be adjacent to or aligned with at least one of the first horizontal line L_H1and the second vertical line L_V2. In one embodiment, the twelfth auxiliary light blocking member BK_S12may be positioned on the first horizontal line L_H1and (at least a center point) may be positioned on the left side of the second vertical line L_V2. In this case, the twelfth auxiliary light blocking member BK_S12may have a value corresponding to “left”.

A twenty-first auxiliary light blocking member BK_S21may be adjacent to the second horizontal line L_H2and the first vertical line L_V1. The twenty-first auxiliary light blocking member BK_S21(e.g., at least a center point thereof) may be positioned below the second horizontal line L_H2and may be positioned on the first vertical line L_V1. In this case, the twenty-first auxiliary light blocking member BK_S21may have a value corresponding to “down”.

A twenty-second auxiliary light blocking member BK_S22may be adjacent to the second horizontal line L_H2and the second vertical line L_V2. The twenty-second auxiliary light blocking member BK_S22(e.g., at least a center point thereof) may be positioned above the second horizontal line L_H2and may be positioned on the first vertical line L_V1. In this case, the twenty-second auxiliary light blocking member BK_S22may have a value corresponding to “up”.

The second position code CODE_A (second location information or second data code) may be determined by a combination of the auxiliary light blocking members BK_S11to BK_S22(or values thereof). The second position code CODE_A may have the same value (or decoding value) as the first position code CODE_M.

The position code CODE may be composed of the light blocking members BK11to BK22, which are based on a combination of CODE_M and CODE_A. For example, the eleventh light blocking member BK11may include the eleventh main light blocking member BK_M11and the eleventh auxiliary light blocking member BK_S11at the same positions they appear in CODE_M and CODE_A, respectively. The twelfth light blocking member BK12may include the twelfth main light blocking member BK_M12and the twelfth auxiliary light blocking member BK_S12. The twenty-first light blocking member BK21may include the twenty-first main light blocking member BK_M21and the twenty-first auxiliary light blocking member BK_S21. The twenty-second light blocking member BK22may include the twenty-second main light blocking member BK_M22and the twenty-second auxiliary light blocking member BK_S22. Accordingly, the position code CODE may include the first position code CODE_M and the second position code CODE_A having the same value (or decoding value).

In an embodiment, the center of an area of the main light blocking member (the first light blocking member or the first code pattern) may be the same as the center of an area of the auxiliary light blocking member (the second light blocking member or the second code pattern). For example, as shown inFIG.13, in the eleventh light blocking member BK11, the center of an area of the eleventh main light blocking member BK_M11may be the same as the center of an area of the eleventh auxiliary light blocking member BK_S11, which overlaps the eleventh main blocking member BK_M11.

For example, based on a virtual line closest to the light blocking member among the virtual lines L_H1, L_H2, L_V1, and L_V2, the main light blocking member (the first light blocking member or the first code pattern) and the auxiliary light blocking member (the second light blocking member or the second code pattern) may be positioned in the same direction and may be spaced apart from the virtual line by the same distance. For example, as shown inFIG.13, in the eleventh light blocking member BK11, the eleventh main light blocking member BK_M11and the eleventh auxiliary light blocking member BK_S11may be positioned on the right side of the first vertical line L_V1, and the eleventh main light blocking member BK_M11and the eleventh auxiliary light blocking member BK_S11(or centers of their areas) may be positioned at the same distance from the first vertical line L_V1.

In another embodiment, the center of the area of the main light blocking member (the first light blocking member or the first code pattern) may be different from the center of the area of the auxiliary light blocking member (the second light blocking member or the second code pattern). For example, as shown inFIG.15, in the eleventh light blocking member BK11, the eleventh main light blocking member BK_M11overlaps the eleventh auxiliary light blocking member BK_S11. However, the center of the area of the eleventh main light blocking member BK_M11may be different from the center of the area of the eleventh auxiliary light blocking member BK_S11.

In other words, based on a virtual line closest to the light blocking member among the virtual lines L_H1, L_H2, L_V1, and L_V2, the main light blocking member (the first light blocking member or the first code pattern) and the auxiliary light blocking member (the second light blocking member or the second code pattern) may be positioned in the same direction and may be spaced apart from the virtual line by different distances. For example, as shown inFIG.15, in the eleventh light blocking member BK11, the eleventh main light blocking member BK_M11and the center of the eleventh auxiliary light blocking member BK_S11may be positioned on the right side of the first vertical line L_V1, and the center of the eleventh main light blocking member BK_M11may be spaced farther apart from the first vertical line L_V1than the eleventh auxiliary light blocking member BK_S11.

Similarly, the twelfth main light blocking member BK_M12may be spaced farther apart from the second vertical line L_V2than the center of the twelfth auxiliary light blocking member BK_S12. The twenty-first main light blocking member BK_M21may be spaced farther apart from the first horizontal line L_H1than the center of the twenty-first auxiliary light blocking member BK_S21. The twenty-second main light blocking member BK_M22may be spaced farther apart from the second horizontal line L_H2than the center of the twenty-second auxiliary light blocking member BK_S22.

In consideration of the different sizes of the emission areas EA1to EA3shown inFIG.6, the positions of the main light blocking members BK_M11to BK_M22having a relatively large line width may be variously changed.

FIG.16is a plan view illustrating another embodiment of the display device in which an area A2ofFIG.4is enlarged.

Referring toFIGS.8and16, except for the shape of the light blocking member BK (or the code pattern CP) or the arrangement position of the first light blocking member BK_M (or the first code pattern CP_M), the embodiment ofFIG.16may be substantially the same as or similar to the embodiment ofFIG.8. Therefore, a description of the configuration described with reference toFIG.8will be omitted.

The code pattern CP may include the first code pattern CP_M (or main code pattern) and the second code pattern CP_S (or auxiliary code pattern). The light blocking member BK may include the first light blocking member BK_M (or the first part) corresponding to the first code pattern CP_M and the second light blocking member BK_S (or the second part) corresponding to the second code pattern CP_S.

In an embodiment, the first code pattern CP_M and the second code pattern CP_S may have the same or similar planar shape. For example, the second code pattern CP_S may include a closed-loop portion surrounding at least one of the first to third emission areas EA1, EA2, and EA3when viewed on a plane, and may have a rhombic planar shape as a whole. Similarly, the first code pattern CP_M may include a closed-loop portion surrounding one of the first to third emission areas EA1, EA2, and EA3, and may have a rhombic planar shape as a whole. When the first code pattern CP_M has a closed-loop shape, compared to a dot shape or a line shape as previously discussed, identification sensitivity of the first code pattern CP_M (and the code pattern CP including the same) can be further improved. The shape (and size) of the first code pattern CP_M may be different in other embodiments. In this case, the shape (and size) of the first code pattern CP_M may be variously changed within a range that reduces or minimizes the light emitting characteristics of the display device10.

FIG.17is a plan view for explaining a position code according to an arrangement of light blocking members according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIGS.14,15, and17, except for the shapes of the main light blocking members BK_M11to BK_M22(first light blocking members or first code patterns), the embodiment ofFIG.17may be substantially the same as or similar to the embodiment ofFIG.15. Therefore, a description of the configuration described with reference toFIGS.14and15will be omitted. Since each of the main light blocking members BK_M11to BK_M22is substantially the same as or similar to the first light blocking member BK_M described with reference toFIG.16, duplicate descriptions will be omitted.

As shown inFIG.17, the center of the area of the main light blocking member (the first light blocking member or the first code pattern) may be different from the center of the area of the auxiliary light blocking member (the second light blocking member or the second code pattern). For example, in the eleventh light blocking member BK11, the center of the area of the eleventh main light blocking member BK_M11may be different from the center of the area of the eleventh auxiliary light blocking member BK_S11.

Based on a virtual line closest to the light blocking member among the virtual lines L_H1, L_H2, L_V1, and L_V2, the main light blocking member (the first light blocking member or the first code pattern) and the auxiliary light blocking member (the second light blocking member or the second code pattern) may be positioned in the same direction and may be spaced apart from the virtual line by different distances. For example, in the eleventh light blocking member BK11, the eleventh main light blocking member BK_M11and the center of the eleventh auxiliary light blocking member BK_S11may be positioned on the right side of the first vertical line L_V1. In this case, the eleventh main light blocking member BK_M11may be spaced farther apart from the first vertical line L_V1than the eleventh auxiliary light blocking member BK_S11.

Similarly, the twelfth main light blocking member BK_M12may be spaced farther apart from the second vertical line L_V2than the center of the twelfth auxiliary light blocking member BK_S12. The twenty-first main light blocking member BK_M21may be spaced farther apart from the first horizontal line L_H1than the center of the twenty-first auxiliary light blocking member BK_S21. The twenty-second main light blocking member BK_M22may be spaced farther apart from the second horizontal line L_H2than the center of the twenty-second auxiliary light blocking member BK_S22.

FIG.18is a perspective view illustrating a touch input system according to embodiments.FIG.19is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a display device and a touch input device included in the touch input system ofFIG.18.

Referring toFIGS.18and19, the touch input system may include a display device10and an input device20. The display device10may include a display panel100, a display driver200, a touch driver400, a main processor500, and a communication unit600.

The display panel100may include a display unit DU and a touch sensing unit TSU. The display unit DU may include a plurality of pixels for displaying an image.

The touch sensing unit TSU may include a plurality of touch electrodes SEN to sense a user's input (e.g., a touch by a user's finger or stylus) in a capacitive manner. The display device10may sense a touch of the input device20by including a code pattern CP (e.g., refer toFIGS.8and16). The code pattern CP may have location information determined by the planar shape, arrangement, and the like of a light blocking member BK. At least one code pattern CP or a combination of code patterns CP may correspond to a value of a predetermined data code.

The display driver200may output signals and voltages for driving the display unit DU. The display driver200may supply data voltages to data lines. The display driver200may supply a power source voltage to a power source line and may supply gate control signals to a gate driver.

The touch driver400may be connected to the touch sensing unit TSU. The touch driver400may supply a touch driving signal to the plurality of touch electrodes SEN of the touch sensing unit TSU and sense an amount of change in capacitance between the plurality of touch electrodes SEN. The touch driver400may sense whether there is a user's input based on the change amount of capacitance between the plurality of touch electrodes SEN and calculate input coordinates.

The main processor500may control operation of the display device10. For example, the main processor500may supply digital video data to the display driver200so that the display panel100displays an image. For example, the main processor500may receive touch data from the touch driver400to determine the user's input coordinates, and then may generate the digital video data according to the input coordinates or execute an application indicated by an icon displayed at the user's input coordinates. For another example, the main processor500may receive coordinate data from the input device20to determine the input coordinates of the input device20, and then generate the digital video data according to the input coordinates or execute an application indicated by an icon displayed at the input coordinates of the input device20.

The communication unit600may perform wired/wireless communication with an external device. For example, the communication unit600may transmit and receive communication signals to and from a communication module24of the input device20. The communication unit600may receive coordinate data composed of data codes from the input device20and provide the coordinate data to the main processor500.

The input device20may include a camera21, a piezoelectric sensor22, a processor23, the communication module24, a memory25, and a battery26. For example, the input device20may be an input pen that generates the coordinate data using an optical method. The input pen may be a smart pen, an electromagnetic pen, or an active pen, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

The camera21may be disposed in front of the input device20. The camera21may capture the code pattern CP. The camera21may continuously capture the code pattern CP at a corresponding position along the movement of the input device20. The camera21may provide the captured image to the processor23.

The piezoelectric sensor22may sense pressure applied to the display device10by the input device20. The piezoelectric sensor22may provide pressure information of the input device20to the processor23.

The processor23may receive an image of the code pattern CP captured by the camera21. The processor23may convert the code pattern CP into a corresponding data code, and may generate the coordinate data by combining data codes. The processor23may transmit the generated coordinate data to the display device10through the communication module24.

The processor23may quickly generate the coordinate data without complex calculations and corrections by receiving the image of the code pattern CP and converting at least one code pattern CP (or a combination of code patterns CP) into the data code in a one-to-one manner. Accordingly, the touch input system may perform a corresponding function based on accurate input coordinates, reduce cost and power consumption, and simplify a driving process. In addition, the touch input system may not be limited in size and may be applied to all electronic devices having a touch function by including the plurality of code patterns CP provided on a touch sensing layer TSU, a color filter layer CFL, or a wavelength conversion layer WLCL.

The communication module24may perform wired/wireless communication with an external device. For example, the communication module24may transmit and receive the communication signals to and from the communication unit600of the display device10. The communication module24may receive the coordinate data composed of data codes from the processor23and may provide the coordinate data to the communication unit600.

The memory25may store data used to drive the input device20. The input device20may convert at least one code pattern CP (or a combination of code patterns CP) into the data code in a one-to-one manner, and directly provide the coordinate data to the display device10. Therefore, the memory25having a relatively small capacity can be included.

In the display device and the touch input system according to the embodiments of the present invention, the light blocking member (that is, the code pattern having location information) may include a first part and a second part having different line widths. The input device may quickly generate the input coordinates using the light blocking member.

In addition, deterioration in light emitting characteristics of the display device can be reduced or minimized, by reducing or minimizing the size of the first part (that is, the first code pattern) having a large line width. In addition, input performance of the input device in a hovering state can be improved by using the second part (that is, the second code pattern) having a small line width.

The effects according to the embodiments of the present invention are not limited by the contents described above, and more various effects are included in the disclosure.

Although the technical spirit of the disclosure has been described in detail in accordance with the above-described embodiments, it should be noted that the above-described embodiments are for the purpose of description and not of limitation. In addition, those skilled in the art may understand that various modifications are possible within the scope of the technical spirit of the disclosure. The embodiments may be combined to form additional embodiments.