U.S. patent application number 15/344717 was filed with the patent office on 2017-11-09 for display device and method of manufacturing the same.
The applicant listed for this patent is Samsung Display Co., Ltd.. Invention is credited to Joo Lark Son, Young Goo Song, Chang Il TAE, Seung Jun Yu.
Application Number | 20170322467 15/344717 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 60243448 |
Filed Date | 2017-11-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170322467 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
TAE; Chang Il ; et
al. |
November 9, 2017 |
DISPLAY DEVICE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME
Abstract
A display device includes a first substrate, a first pixel and a
second pixel disposed adjacent to each other on the first
substrate, and a pixel electrode disposed in each of the first and
second pixels, each pixel electrode including a first stem
extending in a first direction between two first end portions, a
second stem intersecting the first stem and extending between two
second end portions, and an intersection disposed where the first
stem and the second stem meet, in which the first and second end
portions define at least a portion of an outer extent of a pixel
area in each pixel, and a first distance from a center of the pixel
area of the first pixel to the intersection of the first pixel is
different from a second distance from a center of the pixel area of
the second pixel to the intersection of the second pixel.
Inventors: |
TAE; Chang Il; (Seoul,
KR) ; Yu; Seung Jun; (Cheonan-si, KR) ; Son;
Joo Lark; (Suwon-si, KR) ; Song; Young Goo;
(Asan-si, KR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Samsung Display Co., Ltd. |
Yongin-si |
|
KR |
|
|
Family ID: |
60243448 |
Appl. No.: |
15/344717 |
Filed: |
November 7, 2016 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G02F 1/133753 20130101;
G02F 2201/123 20130101; G02F 1/134309 20130101; G02F 2001/133757
20130101; G02F 1/133512 20130101; G02F 1/133707 20130101; G02F
1/134336 20130101; G02F 2001/134345 20130101; G02F 2001/133388
20130101 |
International
Class: |
G02F 1/1343 20060101
G02F001/1343; G02F 1/1343 20060101 G02F001/1343; G02F 1/1335
20060101 G02F001/1335 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
May 3, 2016 |
KR |
10-2016-0054740 |
Claims
1. A display device, comprising: a first substrate; a first pixel
and a second pixel disposed adjacent to each other on the first
substrate; and a pixel electrode disposed in each of the first and
second pixels, each pixel electrode comprising: a first stem
extending in a first direction between two first end portions; a
second stem intersecting the first stem and extending in a second
direction different from the first direction between two second end
portions; and an intersection disposed where the first stem and the
second stem meet, wherein: the first and second end portions define
at least a portion of an outer extent of a pixel area in each
pixel; and a first distance from a center of the pixel area of the
first pixel to the intersection of the first pixel is different
from a second distance from a center of the pixel area of the
second pixel to the intersection of the second pixel.
2. The display device of claim 1, wherein the second distance is
greater than the first distance.
3. The display device of claim 2, wherein the center of the pixel
area of first pixel and the intersection of the first pixel overlap
each other.
4. The display device of claim 1, further comprising a black matrix
partially covering the second pixel, wherein the black matrix does
not overlap the intersection of the second pixel.
5. The display device of claim 4, further comprising a second
substrate facing the first substrate, wherein the black matrix is
disposed on the second substrate.
6. The display device of claim 4, wherein the black matrix is
disposed on the first substrate.
7. The display device of claim 4, wherein a boundary line of the
black matrix traverses the second pixel.
8. The display device of claim 7, wherein the boundary line
comprises a curved line having a first curvature.
9. The display device of claim 7, wherein the boundary line
comprises a straight line having a first slope.
10. The display device of claim 1, further comprising a third pixel
disposed adjacent to the second pixel, the third pixel comprising:
a first stem extending in the first direction; a second stem
extending in the second direction; and an intersection disposed
where the first stem and the second stem meet, wherein a third
distance from a center of the pixel area of the third pixel to the
intersection of the third pixel is greater than the second
distance.
11. A display device, comprising: a first substrate; a first pixel
and a second pixel disposed adjacent to each other on the first
substrate; and a pixel electrode disposed in each of the first and
second pixels, each pixel electrode comprising: a first stem
extending in a first direction between two first end portions; a
second stem intersecting the first stem and extending in a second
direction different from the first direction between two second end
portions; and an intersection disposed where the first stem and the
second stem meet, wherein: the first and second portions define at
least a portion of an outer extent of a pixel area in each pixel;
the first stem and the second stem divide the pixel area of each of
the first and second pixels into a plurality of domains; and is the
first pixel has a different number of domains than the number of
domains in the second pixel.
12. The display device of claim 11, wherein: the pixel area of the
first pixel comprises four domains and the pixel area of the second
pixel comprises two domains.
13. The display device of claim 11, further comprising a third
pixel disposed adjacent to the second pixel, the third pixel
comprising: a first stem extending in the first direction; a second
stem extending in the second direction; and an intersection
disposed where the first stem and the second stem meet, wherein the
third pixel comprises one domain.
14. The display device of claim 13, further comprising a black
matrix partially covering the second pixel and the third pixel,
wherein an area of the second pixel not covered by the black matrix
is greater than an area of the third pixel not covered by the black
matrix.
15. The display device of claim 13, wherein: the intersection of
the first pixel is disposed at a center of the pixel area of the
first pixel; the intersection of the second pixel is disposed at a
side of the pixel area of the second pixel; and the intersection of
the third pixel is disposed at a corner of a pixel area of the
third pixel.
16. The display device of claim 11, further comprising branches
disposed in the domains, the branches extending diagonally from the
first stem and the second stem.
17. The display device of claim 13, wherein an aperture ratio of
the second pixel is greater than that of the third pixel and less
than that of the first pixel.
18. A display device, comprising: a substrate; a first pixel and a
second pixel disposed adjacent to each other on the substrate; and
a pixel electrode disposed in each of the first and second pixels,
each pixel electrode comprising intersecting stems that divide the
corresponding pixel into a plurality of domains, wherein: an
aperture ratio of the first pixel is greater than that of the
second pixel; and the number of domains disposed in the first pixel
is greater than that of the second pixel.
19. The display device of claim 18, further comprising a black
matrix, wherein the black matrix overlaps a greater area of the
second pixel than the first pixel.
20. A display device, comprising: a first substrate; a first pixel
and a second pixel disposed adjacent to each other on the first
substrate; and a pixel electrode disposed in each of the first
pixel and the second pixel, each pixel electrode comprising: a
first stem extending in a first direction; a second stem
intersecting the first stem and extending in a second direction
different from the first direction; and an intersection disposed
where the first stem and the second stem meet; and a black matrix
disposed on the first substrate and partially covering the second
pixel, wherein the black matrix does not overlap the intersection
of the second pixel.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority from and the benefit of
Korean Patent Application No. 10-2016-0054740 filed on May 3, 2016,
which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes as if
fully set forth herein.
BACKGROUND
Field
[0002] Exemplary embodiments relate generally to a display device
and a method of manufacturing the same and, more particularly, to a
display device and a method of manufacturing the same that may
reduce the formation of dark portions in pixels by facilitating
balanced driving of liquid crystals.
Discussion of the Background
[0003] With the development of multimedia, the importance of
display devices is increasing. Accordingly, various types of
display devices such as liquid crystal displays (LCDs) and organic
light-emitting displays (OLEDs) are being used.
[0004] In particular, LCDs are one of the most widely used types of
flat panel displays. Generally, an LCD includes a pair of
substrates having field generating electrodes, such as pixel
electrodes and a common electrode, and a liquid crystal layer
interposed between the two substrates. In an LCD, voltages are
applied to field generating electrodes to generate an electric
field in a liquid crystal layer. Accordingly, the direction of
liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer is determined,
and polarization of incident light is controlled. As a result, a
desired image is displayed on the LCD.
[0005] An LCD typically includes a display area in which an image
is displayed and a non-display area in which various signal lines
are disposed, so as to enable the display area to display an
image.
[0006] In addition, a plurality of pixels are formed in the display
area. The pixels receive light from a backlight and emit light of a
particular wavelength. To display a desired image, a display device
may block generation of unintended light by forming a black matrix
therein, which may have a different structure and shape in each
display device.
[0007] The above information disclosed in this Background section
is only for enhancement of understanding of the background of the
inventive concept, and, therefore, it may contain information that
does not form the prior art that is already known in this country
to a person of ordinary skill in the art.
SUMMARY
[0008] Display devices constructed according to the principles of
the invention reduce the formation of dark portions in a pixel.
[0009] Exemplary embodiments of the invention provide display
devices and method for manufacturing the same may reduce the
formation of dark portions by maintaining the balance in driving
liquid crystals in each pixel.
[0010] Additional aspects will be set forth in the detailed
description which follows, and, in part, will be apparent from the
disclosure, or may be learned by practice of the inventive
concept.
[0011] According to an exemplary embodiment, a display device
includes a first substrate, a first pixel and a second pixel
disposed adjacent to each other on the first substrate, and a pixel
electrode disposed in each of the first and second pixels, each
pixel electrode including a first stem extending in a first
direction between two first end portions, a second stem
intersecting the first stem and extending in a second direction
different from the first direction between two second end portions,
and an intersection disposed where the first stem and the second
stem meet, in which the first and second end portions define at
least a portion of an outer extent of a pixel area in each pixel,
and a first distance from a center of the pixel area of the first
pixel to the intersection of the first pixel is different from a
second distance from a center of the pixel area of the second pixel
to the intersection of the second pixel
[0012] The second distance may be greater than the first
distance.
[0013] The center of the pixel area of the first pixel and the
intersection of the first pixel may overlap each other.
[0014] The display device may further include a black matrix
partially covering the second pixel, in which the black matrix may
does not overlap the intersection of the second is pixel.
[0015] The display device may further include a second substrate
facing the first substrate, in which the black matrix is disposed
on the second substrate.
[0016] The black matrix may be disposed on the first substrate.
[0017] A boundary line of the black matrix may traverse the second
pixel.
[0018] The boundary line may be a curve having a first
curvature.
[0019] The boundary line may be a straight line having a first
slope.
[0020] The display device may further include a third pixel
disposed adjacent to the second pixel including a first stem
extending in the first direction, a second stem extending in the
second direction, and an intersection disposed where the first stem
and the second stem meet, in which a third distance from a center
of the pixel area of the third pixel to the intersection of the
third pixel is greater than the second distance.
[0021] According to an exemplary embodiment, a display device
includes a first substrate, a first pixel and a second pixel
disposed adjacent to each other on the first substrate, and a pixel
electrode disposed in each of the first and second pixels, each
pixel electrode including a first stem extending in a first
direction between two first end portions, a second stem
intersecting the first stem and extending in a second direction
different from the first direction between two second end portions,
and an intersection disposed where the first stem and the second
stem meet, in which the first and second end portions define at
least a portion of an outer extent of a pixel area in each pixel,
the first stem and the second stem divide the pixel area of each of
the first and second pixels into a plurality of domains, and the
first pixel has a different number of domains than the number of
domains in the second pixel.
[0022] The pixel area of the first pixel may include four domains
and the pixel area of the second pixel comprises two domains.
[0023] The display device may further include a third pixel
disposed adjacent to the second pixel and includes a first stem
extending in the first direction, a second stem extending in the
second direction, and an intersection disposed where first stem and
the second stem meet, in which the third pixel may include one
domain.
[0024] The display device may further include a black matrix
partially covering the second pixel and the third pixel, in which
an area of the second pixel not covered by the black matrix is
greater than an area of the third pixel not covered by the black
matrix.
[0025] The intersection of the first pixel may be disposed at a
center of the pixel area of the first pixel, the intersection of
the second pixel may be disposed at a side of the pixel area of the
second pixel, and the intersection of the third pixel may be
disposed at a corner of a pixel area of the third pixel.
[0026] The display device may further include branches disposed in
the domains and extending diagonally from the first stem and the
second stem.
[0027] An aperture ratio of the second pixel may be greater than
that of the third pixel and less than that of the first pixel.
[0028] According to an exemplary embodiment, a display device
includes a substrate, a first pixel and a second pixel disposed
adjacent to each other on the substrate, and a pixel electrode
disposed in each of the first and second pixels, each pixel
electrode including intersecting stems that divide the
corresponding pixel into a plurality of domains, in which an
aperture ratio of the first pixel is greater than that of the
second pixel, and the number of domains disposed in the first pixel
is greater than that of the second pixel.
[0029] The display device may further include a black matrix, in
which the black matrix overlaps a greater area of the second pixel
than the first pixel.
[0030] According to an exemplary embodiment, a display device
includes a first substrate, a first pixel and a second pixel
disposed adjacent to each other on the first substrate, and a pixel
electrode disposed in each of the first pixel and the second pixel,
each pixel electrode including a first stem extending in a first
direction, a second stem intersecting the first stem and extending
in a second direction different from the first direction, and an
intersection disposed where the first stem and the second stem
meet, and a black matrix disposed on the first substrate and
partially covering the second pixel, in which the black matrix does
not overlap the intersection of the second pixel.
[0031] The foregoing general description and the following detailed
description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to
provide further explanation of the claimed subject matter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0032] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a
further understanding of the inventive concept, and are
incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification,
illustrate exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept, and,
together with the description, serve to explain principles of the
inventive concept.
[0033] FIG. 1 is a layout view of a display device constructed
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0034] FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of an area `A` of the display
device of FIG. 1.
[0035] FIG. 3 is a layout view of FIG. 2.
[0036] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' of
the area `A` of FIG. 2.
[0037] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' of
the area `A` of FIG. 2.
[0038] FIG. 6 is a layout view of a display device constructed
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0039] FIG. 7 is a partial layout view of a display device
constructed according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0040] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a display device
constructed according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0041] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method of
manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0042] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method of
manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0043] FIG. 11 is a layout view illustrating a method of
manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0044] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method of
manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0045] FIG. 13 is a layout view illustrating a method of
manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary
embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS
[0046] In the following description, for the purposes of
explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to
provide a thorough understanding of various exemplary embodiments.
It is apparent, however, that various exemplary embodiments may be
practiced without these specific details or with one or more
equivalent arrangements. In other instances, is well-known
structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to
avoid unnecessarily obscuring various exemplary embodiments.
[0047] In the accompanying figures, the size and relative sizes of
layers, films, panels, regions, etc., may be exaggerated for
clarity and descriptive purposes. Also, like reference numerals
denote like elements.
[0048] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on,"
"connected to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be
directly on, connected to, or coupled to the other element or layer
or intervening elements or layers may be present. When, however, an
element or layer is referred to as being "directly on," "directly
connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer,
there are no intervening elements or layers present. For the
purposes of this disclosure, "at least one of X, Y, and Z" and "at
least one selected from the group consisting of X, Y, and Z" may be
construed as X only, Y only, Z only, or any combination of two or
more of X, Y, and Z, such as, for instance, XYZ, XYY, YZ, and ZZ.
Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. As used herein, the
term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of
the associated listed items.
[0049] Although the terms first, second, 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, and/or
section from another element, component, region, layer, and/or
section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, and/or
section discussed below could be termed a second element,
component, region, layer, and/or section without departing from the
teachings of the present disclosure.
[0050] Spatially relative terms, such as "beneath," "below,"
"lower," "above," "upper," and the like, may be used herein for
descriptive purposes, and, thereby, to describe one element or
feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as
illustrated in the drawings. Spatially relative terms are intended
to encompass different orientations of an apparatus in use,
operation, and/or manufacture in addition to the orientation
depicted in the drawings. For example, if the apparatus in the
drawings is turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath"
other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other
elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "below" can
encompass both an orientation of above and below. Furthermore, the
apparatus may be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at
other orientations), and, as such, the spatially relative
descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.
[0051] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing
particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. As used
herein, the singular forms, "a," "an," and "the" are intended to
include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly
indicates otherwise. Moreover, the terms "comprises," "comprising,"
"includes," and/or "including," when used in this specification,
specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps,
operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof, but do not
preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features,
integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups
thereof.
[0052] Various exemplary embodiments are described herein with
reference to sectional illustrations that are schematic
illustrations of idealized exemplary embodiments and/or
intermediate structures. As such, variations from the shapes of the
illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques
and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, exemplary embodiments
disclosed herein should not be construed as limited to the
particular illustrated is shapes of regions, but are to include
deviations in shapes that result from, for instance, manufacturing.
For example, an implanted region illustrated as a rectangle will,
typically, have rounded or curved features and/or a gradient of
implant concentration at its edges rather than a binary change from
implanted to non-implanted region. Likewise, a buried region formed
by implantation may result in some implantation in the region
between the buried region and the surface through which the
implantation takes place. Thus, the regions illustrated in the
drawings are schematic in nature and their shapes are not intended
to illustrate the actual shape of a region of a device and are not
intended to be limiting.
[0053] 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 this
disclosure is a part. Terms, such as those defined in commonly used
dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is
consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art
and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense,
unless expressly so defined herein.
[0054] FIG. 1 is a layout view of a display device according to an
exemplary embodiment. FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of an area `A` of
FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a layout view omitting some components of FIG. 2.
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' of the area
`A` of FIG. 2. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line
II-II' of the area `A` of FIG. 2.
[0055] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 5, the display device according
to exemplary embodiments includes a first substrate 500, a first
pixel PX1 and a second pixel PX2 disposed on the first substrate
500 to be adjacent to each other, and a pixel electrode PE disposed
in each of the first pixel PX1 and the second pixel PX2. The pixel
electrode PE includes a first stem ST1 is extending in a first
direction, a second stem ST2 extending in a second direction
different from the first direction, and an intersection IP1 or IP2
formed in intersecting portions of the first stem ST1 and the
second stem ST2.
[0056] Referring to FIG. 1, the first substrate 500 may include a
material having heat-resisting and light-transmitting properties.
The first substrate 500 may be made of, but not limited to,
transparent glass or plastic. A display area DA and a non-display
area NDA may be disposed in the first substrate 500.
[0057] The display area DA is an area of the display device in
which an image is displayed, and the non-display area NDA is an
area in which various signal lines are disposed to enable the
display area DA to display an image.
[0058] In the non-display area NDA, data drivers DU that provide
data signals to data lines DL and data fan-out lines DFL that
deliver signals received from the data drivers DU to the data lines
DL may be disposed.
[0059] In the display area DA, pixels defined at intersections of
data lines DL and gate lines GL may be disposed. More particularly,
FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of pixels disposed in area `A` of the
display area DA of FIG. 1.
[0060] A black matrix BM may be disposed on the first substrate
500, which may block light. The black matrix BM may include a black
matrix disposed on the non-display area NDA and a black matrix
disposed on the display area DA. Specifically, the black matrix BM
may block light emitted from a backlight and prevent leakage of
light in areas other than the display area DA.
[0061] In the exemplary embodiments, the black matrix BM of the
non-display area NDA may partially cover corners of the display
area DA. Accordingly, some of the pixels disposed at the corners of
the display area DA may be at least partially covered by the black
matrix BM of the non-display area NDA. This will be described in
detail later with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3.
[0062] FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of the area `A` of FIG. 1. FIG. 3
is a layout view omitting some components of FIG. 2. Referring to
FIGS. 2 and 3, the display device according to the exemplary
embodiments may include pixels disposed adjacent to each other. As
described above, the pixels may be defined by the gate lines GL and
the data lines DL. More particularly, one pixel may be a space
formed by the intersection the gate lines GL and the data lines
DL.
[0063] In one pixel, a gate electrode GE, a source electrode SE, a
drain electrode DE, and a pixel electrode PE may be disposed. The
gate electrode GE, the source electrode SE, and the drain electrode
DE will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 4.
[0064] In one pixel, a gate black matrix G_BM may be disposed,
which covers the gate electrode GE, the source electrode SE, and
the drain electrode DE. The gate black matrix G_BM may extend along
the gate lines GL and block light emitted from the backlight or
prevent leakage of light.
[0065] The gate black matrix G_BM may include substantially the
same material as that in the black matrix BM described above, and
may be formed at the same time when the black matrix BM is formed
in the same process. Alternatively, the gate black matrix G_BM and
the black matrix BM may be formed independently using different
materials in separate processes.
[0066] A pixel area PA may be defined in one pixel. The pixel area
PA may be a portion of the pixel, which excludes a portion covered
by the gate black matrix G_BM. The pixel area PA may be an area
occupied by an outer circumference of the pixel electrode PE.
Hereinafter, configurations of the pixel electrode PE in each pixel
constructed according to the principles of the invention will be
described with reference to the pixel area PA.
[0067] The pixel electrode PE may include a first stem ST1
extending in the first direction, a second stem ST2 extending in
the second direction different from the first direction, an
intersection IP1, IP2, or IP3 of the first stem ST1 and the second
stem ST2, and branches BR extending diagonally from the first stem
ST1 and the second stem ST2. According to exemplary embodiments,
the first stem ST1 may extend in the first direction between two
first end portions and the second stem ST2 may extend in the second
direction between two second end portions. In this manner, the two
first end portions and the two second end portions may define at
least a portion of an outer extent of a pixel area PA in each
pixel.
[0068] According to an exemplary embodiment, the first direction
may be a direction parallel to the data lines DL, and the second
direction may be a direction parallel to the gate lines GL. In this
case, the first stem ST1 and the second stem ST2 may
perpendicularly intersect each other at the intersection IP1, IP2,
or IP3.
[0069] Hereinafter, the pixels will be referred to as a first pixel
PX1, a second pixel PX2, and a third pixel PX3 sequentially from
the one disposed at an upper right corner of FIG. 2.
[0070] The first pixel PX1 will hereinafter be described.
[0071] The first stem ST1 and the second stem ST2 of the pixel
electrode PE disposed in the first pixel PX1 may intersect each
other at a center C1 of a pixel area PA the first pixel PX1. As
used herein, the center of each pixel area PA may refer to a
geometric center of each pixel area PA, and may be used for
describing the following configuration.
[0072] The intersection IP1 of the first pixel PX1 may overlap the
center C1 of the pixel area PA of the first pixel PX1. More
particularly, a distance between the center C1 of the pixel area PA
of the first pixel PX1 and the intersection IP1 may be zero.
[0073] The first stem ST1 and the second stem ST2 of the first
pixel PX1 may divide the pixel area PA of the first pixel PX1 into
four domains. Specifically, when the first stem ST1 and the second
stem ST2 intersect each other in a cross (+) shape, they may divide
the pixel area PA into four domains.
[0074] More particularly, assuming that the intersection IP1 of the
first pixel PX1 is the origin, and that the first stem ST1 is the
y-axis and the second stem ST2 is the x-axis, the first pixel PX1
may include a first domain DM1 corresponding to a first quadrant, a
second domain DM2 corresponding to a second quadrant, a third
domain DM3 corresponding to a third quadrant, and a fourth domain
DM4 corresponding to a fourth quadrant.
[0075] The branches BR may be disposed in the first, second, third,
and fourth domains DM1, DM2, DM3, and DM4. The branches BR may
extend diagonally from edges of the pixel area PA toward the
intersection IP1. More particularly, the branches BR may extend
from the first stem ST1 and the second stem ST2 toward the edges of
the pixel area PA.
[0076] In the first pixel PX1, the first to fourth domains DM1 to
DM4 may have substantially the same size or area. When the first to
fourth domains DM1 to DM4 have substantially the same area with
respect to the intersection IP1 of the pixel area PA of the first
pixel PX1, generation of a dark portion of the pixel area PA may be
minimized.
[0077] Next, the second pixel PX2 and the third pixel PX3 will be
described.
[0078] The second pixel PX2 may be disposed adjacent to the first
pixel PX1. The second pixel PX2 may include a pixel area PA.
[0079] The pixel area PA of the second pixel PX2 may be at least
partially covered by the black matrix BM of the non-display area
NDA. More particularly, a boundary line BL of the black matrix BM
of the non-display area NDA may traverse the pixel area PA of the
second is pixel PX2. In this case, if a relative aperture ratio of
the first pixel PX1 is one, a relative aperture ratio of the second
pixel PX2 may be less than one due to the black matrix BM of the
non-display area NDA. As used herein, the relative aperture ratio
may refer to the degree to which the pixel area of each pixel is
exposed. In other words, if the relative aperture ratio of the
pixel area PA of the first pixel PX1 not covered by the black
matrix BM of the non-display area NDA is one, the relative aperture
ratio of each of the second pixel PX2 and the third pixel PX3 may
be less than one.
[0080] The intersection IP2 of the second pixel PX2 may be disposed
in a portion of the pixel area PA of the second pixel PX2 that is
not covered by the black matrix BM of the non-display area NDA. In
the exemplary embodiments, the first stem ST1 and the second stem
ST2 may intersect each other at one side of the pixel area PA. In
this case, the pixel area PA may be divided into two domains by the
first stem ST1 and the second stem ST2. More particularly, the
pixel area PA of the second pixel PX2 may include a first domain
DM1 disposed above the second stem ST2 and a second domain DM2
disposed below the second stem ST2.
[0081] The branches BR may be disposed in the first domain DM1 and
the second domain DM2. The branches BR may extend diagonally from
the first stem ST1 and the second stem ST2 toward edges of the
pixel area PA.
[0082] The third pixel PX3 may be disposed adjacent to the second
pixel PX2. The third pixel PX3 may include a pixel area PA.
[0083] In the exemplary embodiments, the third pixel PX3 may be a
pixel disposed at an outermost corner of the display area DA. The
pixel area PA of the third pixel PX3 may be at least partially
covered by the black matrix BM of the non-display area NDA. When
the black matrix BM of the non-display area NDA partially covers
the pixel area PA of the third pixel PX3, the boundary line BL of
the black matrix BM of the non-display area NDA may traverse the
pixel area PA of the third pixel PX3.
[0084] In the exemplary embodiments, the boundary line BL of the
black matrix BM of the non-display area NDA may have a curved
shape. More particularly, the boundary line BL of the black matrix
BM of the non-display area NDA may extend with a specified
curvature.
[0085] In addition, in the exemplary embodiments, the relative
aperture ratio of the third pixel PX3 may be less than that of the
second pixel PX2. More particularly, a portion of the pixel area PA
of the third pixel PX3 not covered by the black matrix BM of the
non-display area NDA may be smaller in area than a portion of the
pixel area PA of the second pixel PX2 not covered by the black
matrix BM of the non-display area NDA.
[0086] The intersection IP3 of the third pixel PX3 may be disposed
in the portion of the pixel area PA of the third pixel PX3 not
covered by the black matrix BM of the non-display area NDA. In the
exemplary embodiments, the first stem ST1 and the second stem ST2
may intersect each other at a corner of the pixel area PA. More
particularly, the intersection IP3 may be disposed at a corner of
the pixel area PA. When the intersection IP3 is disposed at the
corner of the pixel area PA, the first stem ST1 and the second stem
ST2 may define a single domain, such as the first domain DM1. In
particular, the pixel area PA of the third pixel PX3 may include
only one domain.
[0087] The branches BR may be disposed in the first domain DM1 of
the third pixel PX3. The branches BR may extend diagonally from the
first stem ST1 and the second stem ST2 toward edges of the pixel
area PA.
[0088] Referring back to FIG. 2, the pixels may be divided into a
pixel having a pixel area PA overlapped by the black matrix BM of
the non-display area NDA, and a pixel having a is pixel area PA not
overlapped by the black matrix BM of the non-display area NDA. The
pixel having a pixel area PA not overlapped by the black matrix BM
of the non-display area NDA may be substantially identical to the
first pixel PX1 described above. More particularly, the pixel
having a pixel area PA not overlapped by the black matrix BM of the
non-display area NDA may include four domains each having
substantially identical areas.
[0089] On the other hand, the pixel having a pixel area PA
partially overlapped by the black matrix BM of the non-display area
NDA may be the second pixel PX2 or the third pixel PX3. In
particular, these pixels may include two domains or only one
domain.
[0090] In FIG. 2, out of six pixels, three pixels are partially
overlapped by the black matrix BM of the non-display area NDA, and
the other three pixels are not overlapped by the black matrix BM of
the non-display area NDA. However, the number of pixels overlapped
by the black matrix BM is not limited to the above.
[0091] The relationship between the center of the pixel area PA and
the intersection IP1, IP2, or IP3 will now be described with
reference to FIG. 3.
[0092] Referring to FIG. 3, in the first pixel PX1, the
intersection IP1 and the center C1 of the pixel area PA may overlap
each other. In this case, the distance between the intersection IP1
and the center Cl of the pixel area PA may be zero.
[0093] In the second pixel PX2, the distance between the
intersection IP2 of the second pixel PX2 and a center C2 of the
pixel area PA may be a second distance W2. In the third pixel PX3,
the distance between the intersection IP3 of the third pixel PX3
and a center C3 of the pixel area PA may be a third distance W3. In
the exemplary embodiments, the second distance W2 and the third
distance W3 may be different from each other. Specifically, the
third distance W3 may be greater than the second distance W2.
[0094] As described above, the relative aperture ratio of the
second pixel PX2 is greater than that of the third pixel PX3, and
the difference between the second distance W2 and the third
distance W3 may be associated with the area of an uncovered region
by the black matrix BM of the non-display area NDA. More
particularly, the smaller the area of the uncovered region, the
greater the distance may be from the center of the pixel area to
the intersection.
[0095] When the pixel area PA is not covered by the black matrix BM
of the non-display area NDA as in the first pixel PX1, liquid
crystals may be driven in a balanced manner by four domains,
thereby minimizing the formation of dark portions. However, when
the pixel area PA is partially covered by the black matrix BM of
the non-display area NDA as in the second pixel PX2 and the third
pixel PX3, the liquid crystals may be driven in an unbalanced
manner, thereby increasing the dark portions. Therefore, the
intersection IP2 or IP3 may be shifted from the center C2 or C3 of
the pixel area PA by a predetermined distance, as in the second
pixel PX2 and the third pixel PX3. In this manner, the imbalance in
the liquid crystals may be reduced, and thus, the formation of the
dark portions in a pixel may be minimized.
[0096] According to exemplary embodiments, one pixel may include a
plurality of pixel electrodes, which may have the same or different
shapes. For example, the pixel may include two pixel electrodes,
each pixel electrode having a first stem, a second stem
intersecting the first stem, and an intersection where the first
and second stems meet. In this manner, the pixel may include two
pixel areas PA therein, and each pixel area PA may have, for
example, a low intersection and a high intersection, respectively.
In this case, the inventive concept discussed above may be applied
to each pixel area PA of the first, second, and third pixels PX1,
PX2, and PX3, that correspond to each other. More particularly,
when each of the first, second, and third pixels PX1, PX2, and PX3
have two pixel areas PA therein, a high intersection of the first
pixel PX1 may overlap a center of the corresponding pixel area, and
a high intersection of the second pixel PX2 and a high intersection
of the third pixel area PX3, which correspond to the high
intersection of the first pixel PX1, may each be shifted from the
center of corresponding pixel area, to minimize formation of the
dark portions therein. Similarly, a low intersection of the first
pixel PX1 may overlap a center of the corresponding pixel area, and
a low intersection of the second pixel PX2 and a low intersection
of the third pixel area PX3, which correspond to the low
intersection of the first pixel PX1, may each be shifted from the
center of corresponding pixel area.
[0097] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' of
FIG. 2. Referring to FIG. 4, a gate wiring layer GL and GE may be
disposed on the first substrate 500. The gate wiring layer GL and
GE may include a gate line GL, which receives a driving signal, and
a gate electrode GE, which protrudes from the gate line GL. The
gate line GL may extend in a first direction. The gate electrode GE
may form three terminals of a thin-film transistor (TFT) together
with a source electrode SE and a drain electrode DE, which will be
described later.
[0098] The gate wiring layer GL and GE may include at least one of
aluminum (Al)-based metal such as an aluminum alloy, silver
(Ag)-based metal such as a silver alloy, copper (Cu)-based metal
such as a copper alloy, molybdenum (Mo)-based metal such as a
molybdenum alloy, chrome (Cr), titanium (Ti), and tantalum (Ta).
The gate wiring layer GL and GE may also include a metallic or
polymer material capable of realizing a desired display device.
[0099] The gate wiring layer GL and GE may have a single layer
structure. The gate wiring layer GL and GE may alternatively have a
multilayer structure, such as a double layer or a triple or more
layer.
[0100] A gate insulating layer GI may be disposed on the gate
wiring layer GL and GE. The gate insulating layer GI may cover the
gate wiring layer GL and GE, and may be disposed on the entire
surface of the first substrate 500.
[0101] The gate insulating layer GI may include at least one of an
inorganic insulating material, such as silicon oxide (SiO.sub.x) or
silicon nitride (SiN.sub.x), and an organic insulating material,
such as benzocyclobutene (BCB), an acrylic material, or
polyimide.
[0102] A semiconductor pattern layer 700 may be disposed on the
gate insulating layer GI. The semiconductor pattern layer 700 may
include amorphous silicon or polycrystalline silicon. The
semiconductor pattern layer 700 may alternatively include an oxide
semiconductor.
[0103] The semiconductor pattern layer 700 may have various shapes
such as an island shape and a linear shape. When the semiconductor
pattern layer 700 is linearly shaped, it may be disposed under a
data line DL and extend onto the gate electrode GE.
[0104] According to an exemplary embodiment, the semiconductor
pattern layer 700 may be patterned to have substantially the same
shape as a data wiring layer DL, SE, and DE in all areas excluding
a channel region CH. More particularly, the semiconductor pattern
layer 700 may overlap the data wiring layer DL, SE, and DE in all
areas excluding the channel region CH.
[0105] The channel region CH may be disposed between the source
electrode SE and the drain electrode DE opposing each other. The
channel region CH may electrically connect the source electrode SE
and the drain electrode DE, and the shape of the channel region CH
may be varied.
[0106] An ohmic contact layer (not illustrated) heavily doped with
an n-type impurity may be disposed on the semiconductor pattern
layer 700. The ohmic contact layer may overlap the entire or a
portion of the semiconductor pattern layer 700. However, when the
semiconductor pattern layer 700 includes an oxide semiconductor,
the ohmic contact layer may be omitted.
[0107] When the semiconductor pattern layer 700 is an oxide
semiconductor, the semiconductor pattern layer may include zinc
oxide (ZnO). Further, the semiconductor pattern layer 700 may be
doped with one or more ions of gallium (Ga), indium (In), stannum
(Sn), zirconium (Zr), hafnium (Hf), cadmium (Cd), silver (Ag),
copper (Cu), germanium (Ge), gadolinium (Gd), titanium (Ti), and
vanadium (V). For example, the semiconductor pattern layer 700
formed as an oxide semiconductor may include at least one of, for
example, ZnO, ZnGaO, ZnInO, ZnSnO, GaInZnO, CdO, InO, GaO, SnO,
AgO, CuO, GeO, GdO, HfO, TiZnO, InGaZnO, and InTiZnO.
[0108] The data wiring layer DL, SE, and DE may be disposed on the
semiconductor pattern layer 700. The data wiring layer DL, SE, and
DE includes the data line DL, the source electrode SE, and the
drain electrode DE.
[0109] The data line DL may extend in a second direction and
intersect the gate line GL. The source electrode SE may branch off
from the data line DL and extend onto the semiconductor pattern
layer 700.
[0110] The drain electrode DE may be separated from the source
electrode SE and may be disposed on the semiconductor pattern layer
700 to face the source electrode SE with respect to the gate
electrode GE or the channel region CH. The drain electrode DE may
contact, and thus, may be electrically connected to, a pixel
electrode PE, which will be described later.
[0111] The data wiring layer DL, SE, and DE may have a single layer
structure or a multilayer structure including at least one of
nickel (Ni), cobalt (Co), titanium (Ti), silver (Ag), copper (Cu),
molybdenum (Mo), aluminum (Al), beryllium (Be), niobium (Nb), gold
(Au), iron (Fe), selenium (Se), and tantalum (Ta). In addition, the
data wiring layer DL, SE, and DE may is be an alloy of any one of
the above metals and one or more elements of titanium (Ti),
zirconium (Zr), tungsten (W), tantalum (Ta), niobium (Nb), platinum
(Pt), hafnium (Hf), oxygen (O), and nitrogen (N).
[0112] In FIG. 2, one TFT is disposed in one pixel. It is
contemplated that, however, the number of TFTs disposed in one
pixel may vary.
[0113] A first passivation layer PASSI1 may be disposed on the data
wiring layer DL,
[0114] SE, and DE, and the semiconductor pattern layer 700. The
first passivation layer PASSI1 may include an inorganic insulating
material or an organic insulating material.
[0115] The first passivation layer PASSI1 may include a contact
hole CNT, which exposes at least a portion of the drain electrode
DE.
[0116] The pixel electrode PE may be disposed on the first
passivation layer PASSI1. The pixel electrode PE may be
electrically connected to the drain electrode DE via the contact
hole CNT.
[0117] In an exemplary embodiment, the pixel electrode PE may
include a transparent conductor, such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or
indium zinc oxide (IZO), or a reflective conductor such as
aluminum.
[0118] The distance relationship between adjacent data lines DL and
the first stem ST of each pixel will now be described with
reference to FIG. 5.
[0119] As used herein, a virtual line that passes through the
center of a data line DL may be referred to as a reference line RL.
In the following description, the distance from a data line DL to
the reference line RL may refer to a distance between an end of the
first stem ST1 and the reference line RL.
[0120] In the first pixel PX1, a distance d5 between a data line DL
and the first stem ST1 may be substantially equal to a distance d6
between adjacent data line DL and the first stem ST1. This may be
because the first stem ST1 passes through the center Cl of the
pixel area PA of the first pixel PX1.
[0121] In the second pixel PX2, a distance d3 between a data line
DL and the first stem ST1 may be different from a distance d4
between adjacent data line DL and the first stem ST1. Specifically,
the distance d3 between the former data line DL and the first stem
ST1 may be greater than the distance d4 between the latter data
line DL and the first stem ST1. This may be because the first stem
ST1 extends along one of the sides of the pixel area PA in the
second pixel PX2.
[0122] In the third pixel PX3, a distance d1 between a data line DL
and the first stem ST1 may be different from a distance d2 between
adjacent data line DL and the first stem ST1. Specifically, the
distance d1 between the former data line DL and the first stem ST1
may be greater than the distance d2 between the latter data line DL
and the first stem ST1. This may be because the first stem ST1
extends along one of the sides of the pixel area PA in the third
pixel PX3.
[0123] In the exemplary embodiments, d1 and d3 may be equal. More
particularly, while the intersections IP2 and IP3 are located at
different positions in the second pixel PX2 and the third pixel PX3
(see FIG. 2 or 3), the first stems ST1 may be located at
substantially the same position in the corresponding pixel. When
positions of the first stems ST1 in pixel areas of the second pixel
PX2 and the third pixel PX3 are substantially the same, d1 and d3
may be substantially the same.
[0124] As described above, the black matrix BM of the non-display
area NDA may partially cover the second pixel PX2 and the third
pixel PX3. The pixel electrode PE of each of is the second pixel
PX2 and the third pixel PX3 may directly contact the black matrix
BM of the non-display area NDA. According to an exemplary
embodiment, however, at least one or more intermediate layers may
be disposed between the pixel electrode PE and the black matrix BM
of the display area DA or the non-display area NDA.
[0125] Hereinafter, display devices according to exemplary
embodiments will be described. In the following exemplary
embodiments, components substantially identical to those described
above with reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 5 are indicated by like
reference numerals, and thus, repeated description of the
substantially identical components will be omitted.
[0126] FIG. 6 is a layout view of a display device according to an
exemplary embodiment.
[0127] Referring to FIG. 6, the display device according to the
exemplary embodiments is different from the display device
illustrated with reference to FIG. 2, in that a pixel area PA
includes a fourth pixel PX4 that is completely covered by a black
matrix BM of the non-display area NDA.
[0128] In the exemplary embodiments, a pixel disposed at an
outermost corner of a display area DA may be completely covered by
the black matrix BM of the non-display area NDA. For ease of
description, this pixel will be referred to as the fourth pixel
PX4. The fourth pixel PX may have an aperture ratio of zero because
it is completely covered by the black matrix BM of the non-display
area NDA.
[0129] Therefore, the formation of dark portions may not be a
problem in the fourth pixel PX. The shape of a pixel electrode PE
of the fourth pixel PX may not be limited to a particular shape. In
the exemplary embodiments, the pixel electrode PE of the fourth
pixel PX4 may have substantially the same shape as that of a first
pixel PX1 illustrated in FIG. 6. The pixel electrode PE of the
fourth pixel PX4 may alternatively have the same shape as that of a
second pixel PX2 or a third pixel PX3.
[0130] Referring to FIG. 6, in the exemplary embodiments, the
second pixel PX2 may include four domains having different areas or
sizes.
[0131] As described above, in a pixel partially covered by the
black matrix BM of the non-display area NDA, an intersection IP2 or
IP3 may be located in a portion of the pixel area PA which is not
covered by the black matrix BM of the non-display area NDA.
[0132] In the exemplary embodiments, the intersection IP2 may be
located at any position in the portion of the pixel area PA not
covered by the black matrix BM of the non-display area NDA. In this
case, the pixel area PA may be divided into four domains having
different sizes by a first stem ST1 and a second stem ST2. More
particularly, the second pixel PX2 may include first to fourth
domains DM1, DM2, DM3, and DM4, and the four domains DM1 to DM4 may
have different sizes.
[0133] According to an exemplary embodiment, the intersection IP2
may be disposed in a portion of the pixel area PA not covered by
the black matrix BM of the non-display area NDA, such that each of
the domains DM1 to DM4 formed by the first stem ST1 and the second
stem ST2 may have substantially the same sizes within the pixel
area PA not covered by the black matrix BM of the non-display area
NDA.
[0134] The branches BR extending from the first stem ST1 and the
second stem ST2 toward edges of the pixel area PA may be disposed
in each of the first to fourth domains DM1 to DM4, as described
above in the display device illustrated with reference to FIG. 1 to
FIG. 5. In this case, the intersection IP2 may be separated from a
center C2 of the pixel area PA by a predetermined distance. When
the intersection IP2 is shifted from the center C2 of the pixel
area PA by a predetermined distance, the imbalance in liquid
crystal driving caused by the black matrix BM of the non-display
area NDA may be corrected, and thus, the formation of the dark
portions in the pixel area PA may be minimized.
[0135] FIG. 7 is a partial layout view of a display device
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0136] Referring to FIG. 7, in the display device according to the
exemplary embodiments, a boundary line BL of a black matrix BM of
the non-display area NDA may be a straight line having a
predetermined slope.
[0137] When the boundary line BL of the black matrix BM of the
non-display area NDA is a straight line, a display area DA may be
have a rectangular shape having corners cut off by the black matrix
BM of the non-display area NDA, such as a chamfered square.
[0138] In the exemplary embodiments, the boundary line BL of the
black matrix BM of the non-display area NDA and branches BR may
have slopes of different signs. More particularly, in an x-y
coordinate system of FIG. 7, the slope of the boundary line BL may
have a positive number, and the slope of the intersecting branches
BR with the boundary line BL may have a negative number.
[0139] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a display device
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0140] Referring to FIG. 8, in the display device according to the
exemplary embodiments, a black matrix BM may be disposed on a
second substrate 1000.
[0141] In the exemplary embodiments, the second substrate 1000 may
be placed to face a first substrate 500. The second substrate 1000
may include a material having heat-resisting and light-transmitting
properties. The second substrate 1000 may be made of, but not
limited to, is transparent glass or plastic.
[0142] The black matrix BM and a color filter CF may be disposed on
the second substrate 1000. The black matrix BM may block light
incident from an external source and spreading of light within the
display device. To this end, the black matrix BM may include
photosensitive resin that includes a black pigment. The black
matrix BM may alternatively include any material that has physical
properties for blocking light incident from an external source.
[0143] The color filter CF may be disposed in a portion not covered
by the black matrix BM, that is, a portion exposed by the black
matrix BM. The color filter CF may convert a wavelength of light
that passes through a liquid crystal layer LC, which will be
described later.
[0144] As described above in the display devices illustrated with
reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 7, the black matrix BM of the
non-display area NDA may at least partially overlap a pixel
disposed at each corner of a display area DA among pixels disposed
in the display area DA.
[0145] An overcoat layer OC may be disposed on the black matrix BM
and the color filter CF. The overcoat layer OC may be formed on the
entire surface of the second substrate 1000 to cover the black
matrix BM and the color filter CF. In addition, the overcoat layer
OC may function as a planarization layer.
[0146] A common electrode CE may be disposed on the overcoat layer
OC. The common electrode CE may be an unpatterned, whole-surface
electrode. A common voltage may be applied to the common electrode
CE. When different voltages are applied to the common electrode CE
and a pixel electrode PE, an electric field may be formed between
the common electrode CE and the pixel electrode PE.
[0147] The liquid crystal layer LC including liquid crystal
molecules may be disposed between the first substrate 500 and the
second substrate 1000. The liquid crystal layer LC may be
controlled by the electric field formed between the common
electrode CE and the pixel electrode PE. The electric field may
control the movement of liquid crystals of the liquid crystal layer
LC, thereby controlling light for displaying an image.
[0148] Hereinafter, a method of manufacturing a display device
according to an exemplary embodiment will be described. In the
following exemplary embodiments, components substantially identical
to those of the display devices described above are indicated by
like reference numerals, and thus, repeated description of the
substantially identical components will be omitted.
[0149] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a method of
manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary
embodiment. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the
method of manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary
embodiment. FIG. 11 is a layout view illustrating the method of
manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary
embodiment. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the
method of manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary
embodiment. FIG. 13 is a layout view illustrating the method of
manufacturing a display device according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0150] Referring to FIGS. 9 through 13, the method of manufacturing
a display device according to an exemplary embodiment includes
preparing a first substrate having a first pixel and a second
pixel, and forming a pixel electrode in each of the first pixel and
the second pixel. The pixel electrode includes a first stem
extending in a first direction, a second stem extending in a second
direction different from the first direction and intersecting the
first stem, and an intersection where the first stem and the second
stem meet.
[0151] First, referring to FIG. 9, a first substrate 500 may be
prepared.
[0152] A gate electrode GE may be formed on the first substrate
500. The gate electrode GE may be formed by forming a conductive
layer on the entire surface of the first substrate 500 and then
etching the conductive layer. The structure and material of the
gate electrode GE may be substantially the same as those of the
gate electrode GE described above.
[0153] A gate insulating layer GI may be formed on the gate
electrode GE. The gate insulating layer GI may be formed on the
entire surface of the first substrate 500. The gate insulating
layer GI may be formed by at least one of sputtering, chemical
vapor deposition (CVD), and inkjet printing methods.
[0154] A semiconductor pattern layer 700 may be formed on the gate
insulating layer GI. The semiconductor pattern layer 700 may be
formed by forming a semiconductor layer on the entire surface of
the first substrate 500 and then patterning the semiconductor
layer. In the exemplary embodiments, the semiconductor pattern
layer 700 may be patterned at the same time when patterning a data
wiring layer DL, DE, and SE. Alternatively, the semiconductor
pattern layer 700 and the data wiring layer DL, DE, and SE may be
patterned independently in separate processes.
[0155] The data wiring layer, which includes a data line DL, a
drain electrode DE, and a source electrode SE, may be formed on the
semiconductor pattern layer 700. The specific structure and
material of the data wiring layer DL, DE, and SE may be
substantially the same as those of the data wiring layer DL, DE,
and SE described above.
[0156] A first passivation layer PASSI1 may be formed on the data
wiring layer DL, DE, and SE. A contact hole CNT may be formed in
the first passivation layer PASSI1. The contact hole CNT may expose
at least a portion of an upper surface of the drain electrode DE.
As described above, pixels may be formed in the first substrate
500. The pixels may be defined by the gate lines GL and the data
lines DL as described above.
[0157] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, a pixel electrode PE may be
formed on the first substrate 500. As described above, the pixel
electrode PE may include a first stem ST1 extending in the first
direction, a second stem ST2 extending in the second direction
different from the first direction and intersecting the first stem
ST1, an intersection IP1 or IP2 of the first stem ST1 and the
second stem ST2, and branches BR extending diagonally from the
first stem ST1 and the second stem ST2.
[0158] The shape of the pixel electrode PE may be the same as those
of the pixel electrode PE described above. More particularly,
referring to FIG. 11, a first pixel PX1, a second pixel PX2, and a
third pixel PX3 may be formed on the first substrate 500, and the
respective pixel electrodes PE of the first pixel PX1, the second
pixel PX2, and the third pixel PX3 may have different shapes (see
FIG. 2).
[0159] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the method of manufacturing a
display device according to an exemplary embodiment may further
include forming a black matrix on the pixel electrode.
[0160] As described above, a gate black matrix G_BM extending along
a gate line GL and a black matrix BM that covers corners of a
display area DA may be disposed on the first substrate 500.
[0161] In the exemplary embodiments, the gate black matrix G_BM and
the black matrix BM may include substantially the same material and
formed simultaneously in the same process. The gate black matrix
G_BM and the black matrix BM, however, may alternatively be formed
independently in separate processes.
[0162] The black matrix BM of the non-display area NDA may
partially overlap pixels disposed in the display area DA. More
particularly, a portion of the pixels may be partially covered by
the black matrix BM of the non-display area NDA. For example,
referring to FIG. 13, a pixel area PA of each of the second pixel
PX2 and the third pixel PX3 may be partially covered by the black
matrix BM of the non-display area NDA.
[0163] According to exemplary embodiments of, the formation of dark
portions in each pixel may be minimized. In addition, the formation
of a dark portion at a side or a corner of a display area may be
minimized.
[0164] Although certain exemplary embodiments and implementations
have been described herein, other embodiments and modifications
will be apparent from this description. Accordingly, the inventive
concept is not limited to such exemplary embodiments, but rather to
the broader scope of the presented claims and various obvious
modifications and equivalent arrangements.
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