Optical path control member and display device comprising the same

Abstract

The optical path control member according to the embodiment includes a first substrate, a first electrode provided on an upper surface of the first substrate, a second substrate provided on the first substrate, a second electrode provided on a lower surface of the second substrate, and an optical conversion unit provided between the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein the optical conversion unit includes partition wall portions and accommodation portions alternately provided, the accommodation portions have a light transmittance that changes according to application of a voltage, and include a dispersant and light conversion particles dispersed in the dispersant, the light conversion particles include first particles and second particles, a hollow portion is formed in each of the second particles, and each surface of the first particles and each surface of the second particles carry charges of the same polarity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments relate to a light path control component with improved front brightness and a display device including the light path control component. Background Technology

[0002] The light-blocking film blocks the transmission of light from the light source and is attached to the front of the display panel of display devices used in mobile phones, laptops, tablets, car navigation devices, car touch screens, etc. So when the display plays the content displayed on the screen, the light-blocking film adjusts the angle of light according to the angle of light incidence to display clear image quality at the user's desired angle.

[0003] In addition, shading film can be used on windows of vehicles, buildings, etc., to partially block external light to prevent glare or to prevent the interior from being seen from the outside.

[0004] In other words, a light-shielding film can be a light path control component that controls the movement path of light, blocks light in a specific direction, and transmits light in a specific direction. Therefore, by controlling the light transmission angle through the light-shielding film, the user's viewing angle can be controlled.

[0005] At the same time, such a light-blocking film can always control the viewing angle regardless of the surrounding environment or the user's environment, and a switchable light-blocking film that allows the user to open / close the viewing angle control according to the surrounding environment or the user's environment is excellent.

[0006] Such a switchable light-blocking film can be achieved by adding electromobilized particles to the patterned part and changing the accommodating unit into a light-transmitting part and a light-blocking part by dispersing and aggregating the particles.

[0007] That is, when particles are concentrated in one direction, the receiving unit can be used as a light-transmitting part, while when particles are dispersed, the receiving unit can be used as a light-blocking part. In this case, when the receiving unit is driven as a light-transmitting part, there is a problem of reduced front brightness due to particles concentrating in one area. In addition, if the light output of the backlight module is increased to improve front brightness, there is a problem of increased heat.

[0008] Therefore, a light path control component with improved frontal brightness is needed. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Technical issues

[0010] The embodiments aim to provide an optical path control component with improved frontal brightness by adding metal oxide particles for inducing light scattering along with light-absorbing particles to the light conversion unit.

[0011] Technical solution

[0012] The optical path control component according to an embodiment includes: a first substrate; a first electrode disposed on the first substrate; a second substrate disposed on the first substrate; a second electrode disposed below the second substrate; and a light conversion unit disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The light conversion unit includes alternately arranged partition wall units and containment units. The containment unit changes its transmittance according to the applied voltage. The containment unit includes a dispersion and light conversion particles dispersed in the dispersion. The light conversion particles include first particles and second particles. The reflectivity of the second particles is greater than that of the first particles. A hollow portion is formed in the second particles. The surfaces of the first particles and the second particles carry the same polarity of charge.

[0013] Beneficial effects

[0014] The optical path control component according to the embodiment can have improved frontal transmittance.

[0015] In addition, the optical path control component according to the embodiment can have improved brightness uniformity.

[0016] In addition, the optical path control component according to the embodiment can have improved particle dispersion stability.

[0017] In detail, the transmittance of the light conversion unit can be improved when the light conversion unit is driven as a transmission unit by reflecting and / or scattering light onto the metal oxide particles of the light conversion particles disposed in the light conversion unit.

[0018] That is, by placing light-scattering particles in the region where light-absorbing particles are concentrated, the amount of light emitted by the light-scattering particles in the user direction is increased, thereby improving the front transmittance.

[0019] In addition, it prevents the reduced light intensity from being visually detected by the light conversion unit area. That is, it ensures the overall brightness uniformity of the optical path control components, thereby improving the user's visibility.

[0020] Furthermore, by controlling the specific gravity difference between light-absorbing and light-scattering particles, phase separation caused by the specific gravity difference can be prevented, thereby preventing the sedimentation of specific particles. Therefore, by ensuring dispersion stability, the transmittance characteristics of the optical path control component can be maintained even after a long period of time. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the optical path control component according to an embodiment.

[0022] Figure 2 and Figure 3 These are perspective views of a first substrate and a first electrode, and a second substrate and a second electrode, respectively, showing the optical path control component according to an embodiment.

[0023] Figure 4 and Figure 5 These are cross-sectional views showing the optical path control components according to an embodiment.

[0024] Figures 6 to 9 yes Figure 4 An enlarged view of region A.

[0025] Figures 10 to 13 This is another cross-sectional view showing the optical path control component according to an embodiment.

[0026] Figure 14 and Figure 15 This is another cross-sectional view showing the optical path control component according to an embodiment.

[0027] Figures 16 to 19 yes Figure 14 An enlarged view of one of the regions.

[0028] Figures 20 to 27 This is a diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing an optical path control component according to an embodiment.

[0029] Figure 28 This is a cross-sectional view of a display device that utilizes the optical path control component according to an embodiment.

[0030] Figure 29 and Figure 30 This is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of a display device that applies a light path control component according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0031] In the following, embodiments of the invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the spirit and scope of the invention are not limited to the parts of the described embodiments, and it can be implemented in various other forms. Within the spirit and scope of the invention, one or more elements of the embodiments can be selectively combined and substituted.

[0032] Furthermore, unless otherwise explicitly defined and described, the terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the embodiments of this invention may be interpreted as having the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains, and terms defined, for example, in a general dictionary may be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the relevant technical context.

[0033] Furthermore, the terminology used in the embodiments of this invention is for describing embodiments of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention. In this specification, unless specifically stated in the wording, the singular form may also include the plural form, and when described as “at least one (or more) of A, B, and C,” it may include at least one of all combinations that can be combined with A, B, and C.

[0034] Furthermore, when describing elements of embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used. These terms are used only to distinguish the element from other elements, and are not limited to the nature, order, or sequence of the elements.

[0035] Furthermore, when an element is described as being “connected,” “coupled,” or “joined” to another element, it can include not only cases where the element is directly “connected,” “coupled,” or “joined” to other elements, but also cases where the element is “connected,” “coupled,” or “joined” through another element between the element and another element.

[0036] Furthermore, when described as being formed or positioned “above” or “below” in each element, “above” or “below” can include not only cases where two elements are directly connected to each other, but also cases where one or more other elements are formed or positioned between the two elements.

[0037] Furthermore, when expressed as "up" or "down", it can include not only the upward direction based on a single element, but also the downward direction based on a single element.

[0038] In the following description, an optical path control component according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The optical path control component described below relates to a switchable optical path control component that drives the application of a voltage in various modes according to the movement of electrophoretic particles.

[0039] refer to Figures 1 to 3 According to the embodiment, the optical path control component may include a first substrate 110, a second substrate 120, a first electrode 210, a second electrode 220, and an optical conversion unit 300.

[0040] The first substrate 110 can support the first electrode 210. The first substrate 110 can be rigid or flexible.

[0041] Furthermore, the first substrate 110 may be transparent. For example, the first substrate 110 may include a transparent substrate capable of transmitting light.

[0042] The first substrate 110 may include glass, plastic, or a flexible polymer film. For example, the flexible polymer film may be made of any of the following: polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyethersulfone (PES), cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), triacetyl cellulose (TAC) film, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film, polyimide (PI) film, and polystyrene (PS). This is merely an example, and the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0043] In addition, the first substrate 110 can be a flexible substrate with flexible properties.

[0044] Furthermore, the first substrate 110 can be a bent or folded substrate. That is, the optical path control member including the first substrate 110 can also be formed to have flexible, bent, or folded characteristics. Therefore, the optical path control member according to the embodiment can be modified into various designs.

[0045] The first substrate 110 may have a thickness of about 1 mm or less.

[0046] The first electrode 210 may be disposed on one surface of the first substrate 110. Specifically, the first electrode 210 may be disposed on the upper surface of the first substrate 110. That is, the first electrode 210 may be disposed between the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 120.

[0047] The first electrode 210 may contain a transparent conductive material. For example, the first electrode 210 may contain a metal oxide, such as indium tin oxide, indium zinc oxide, copper oxide, tin oxide, zinc oxide, titanium oxide, etc.

[0048] The first electrode 210 can be disposed on the first substrate 110 in the form of a thin film. Specifically, the light transmittance of the first electrode 210 can be approximately 80% or more.

[0049] The first electrode 210 may have a thickness of about 10 nm to about 50 nm.

[0050] Alternatively, the first electrode 210 may comprise various metals to achieve low resistance. For example, the first electrode 210 may comprise at least one metal selected from chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), silver (Ag), molybdenum (Mo), gold (Au), and titanium (Ti), or alloys thereof.

[0051] The first electrode 210 may be disposed on the entire surface of one surface of the first substrate 110. In detail, the first electrode 210 may be disposed as a surface electrode on one surface of the first substrate 110; however, the embodiments are not limited thereto, and the first electrode 210 may be formed by a plurality of patterned electrodes having a predetermined pattern.

[0052] For example, the first electrode 210 may include multiple conductive patterns. Specifically, the first electrode 210 may include multiple intersecting grid lines and multiple grid openings formed by the grid lines.

[0053] Therefore, even if the first electrode 210 contains metal, visibility can be improved since the first electrode is not visible from the outside. Furthermore, the increased light transmittance through the opening enhances the brightness of the light path control component according to the embodiment.

[0054] The second substrate 120 may be disposed on the first substrate 110. More specifically, the second substrate 120 may be disposed on the first electrode 210 on the first substrate 110.

[0055] The second substrate 120 may contain a light-transmitting material. The second substrate 120 may contain a transparent material. The second substrate 120 may contain the same or similar material as the first substrate 110 described above.

[0056] For example, the second substrate 120 may include glass, plastic, or a flexible polymer film. For instance, the flexible polymer film may be made of any of the following: polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyethersulfone (PES), cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), triacetyl cellulose (TAC) film, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film, polyimide (PI) film, and polystyrene (PS). This is merely an example, and the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0057] In addition, the second substrate 120 can be a flexible substrate with flexible properties.

[0058] Furthermore, the second substrate 120 can be a bent or folded substrate. That is, the optical path control member including the second substrate 120 can also be formed to have flexible, bent, or folded characteristics. Therefore, the optical path control member according to the embodiment can be modified into various designs.

[0059] The second substrate 120 may have a thickness of less than about 1 mm.

[0060] The second electrode 220 can be disposed on one surface of the second substrate 120. Specifically, the second electrode 220 can be disposed on the lower surface of the second substrate 120. That is, the second electrode 220 can be disposed on the surface of the second substrate 120 facing the first substrate 110. Specifically, the second electrode 220 can be disposed facing the first electrode 210 on the first substrate 110. Specifically, the second electrode 220 can be disposed between the first electrode 210 and the second substrate 120.

[0061] The second electrode 220 may contain a transparent conductive material. For example, the second electrode 220 may contain a metal oxide, such as indium tin oxide, indium zinc oxide, copper oxide, tin oxide, zinc oxide, titanium oxide, etc.

[0062] The second electrode 220 can be disposed on the second substrate 120 in the form of a thin film. In addition, the light transmittance of the second electrode 220 can be approximately 80% or more.

[0063] The second electrode 220 may have a thickness of about 10 nm to about 50 nm.

[0064] Alternatively, the second electrode 220 may comprise various metals to achieve low resistance. For example, the second electrode 220 may comprise at least one metal selected from chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), silver (Ag), molybdenum (Mo), gold (Au), and titanium (Ti), or alloys thereof.

[0065] The second electrode 220 may be disposed on the entire surface of one surface of the first substrate 120. Specifically, the second electrode 220 may be disposed as a surface electrode on one surface of the second substrate 120. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto, and the second electrode 220 may be formed from a plurality of patterned electrodes having a predetermined pattern.

[0066] For example, the second electrode 220 may include multiple conductive patterns. Specifically, the second electrode 220 may include multiple intersecting grid lines and multiple grid openings formed by the grid lines.

[0067] Therefore, even if the second electrode 220 contains metal, visibility can be improved because the second electrode 220 is not visible from the outside. Furthermore, the increased light transmittance through the opening enhances the brightness of the light path control component according to the embodiment.

[0068] The light conversion unit 300 can be disposed between the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 120. More specifically, the light conversion unit 300 can be disposed between the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220.

[0069] The adhesive layer 400 can be disposed between the light conversion unit 300 and the first substrate 110 and between the light conversion unit 300 and the second substrate 120. The first substrate 110, the second substrate 120 and the light conversion unit 300 can be bonded to each other through the adhesive layer 400.

[0070] Furthermore, although not shown in the figure, a buffer layer may be provided between the first electrode 210 and the light conversion unit 300. The buffer layer can improve the adhesion between the first electrode 210 and the light conversion unit 300, which may contain different materials.

[0071] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The light conversion unit 300 may include a partition wall unit 310 and a housing unit 320.

[0072] The partition wall unit 310 can be defined as a partition wall region used to separate the area of ​​the receiving unit 320. That is, the partition wall portion 310 is a partition wall region that divides multiple receiving units. Furthermore, the receiving unit 320 can be defined as a variable region that can be converted into a light-shielding unit and a light-transmitting unit depending on the application of voltage.

[0073] The partition wall unit 310 and the receiving unit 320 can be arranged alternately. The partition wall unit 310 and the receiving unit 320 can be configured with different widths. For example, the width of the partition wall unit 310 can be greater than the width of the receiving unit 320.

[0074] The partition wall unit 310 and the receiving unit 320 may be configured to be in direct or indirect contact with at least one of the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220.

[0075] The partition wall unit 310 and the receiving unit 320 can be arranged alternately. Specifically, the partition wall unit 310 and the receiving unit 320 can be arranged alternately. That is, each partition wall unit 310 can be arranged between adjacent receiving units 320, and each receiving unit 320 can be arranged between adjacent partition wall units 310.

[0076] The partition wall unit 310 may contain a transparent material. The partition wall unit 310 may contain a material that can transmit light.

[0077] The partition wall unit 310 may comprise a resin material. For example, the partition wall unit 310 may comprise a UV-curable resin material. As an example, the partition wall unit 310 may comprise a UV resin or a transparent photoresist resin. Alternatively, the partition wall unit 310 may comprise a polyurethane resin or an acrylic resin.

[0078] The partition wall unit 310 can transmit light incident on either the first substrate 110 or the second substrate 120 to the other substrate.

[0079] For example, in Figure 4 and Figure 5 In this configuration, light can be emitted in the direction of the first substrate 110 and incident in the direction of the second substrate 120. The partition wall unit 310 can transmit light, and the transmitted light can move along the direction of the second substrate 120.

[0080] The sealing part 500 that seals the optical path control component can be provided on the side of the partition wall unit. The side of the optical conversion unit 300 can be sealed by the sealing part.

[0081] The containing unit 320 may include the dispersion 320a and the light conversion particles 10 described above. Specifically, the containing unit 320 is filled with the dispersion 320a, and a plurality of light conversion particles 10 may be dispersed in the dispersion 320a.

[0082] Dispersion 320a can be a material used to disperse the light-converting particles 10. Dispersion 320a may contain a transparent material. Dispersion 320a may contain a nonpolar solvent. Furthermore, dispersion 320a may contain a material capable of transmitting light. For example, dispersion 320a may contain at least one of haloalkanes oil, paraffin oil, and isopropanol.

[0083] The light-converting particles 10 can be configured to be dispersed in the dispersion 320a. Specifically, the plurality of light-converting particles 10 can be configured to be spaced apart from each other in the dispersion 320a.

[0084] The transmittance of the receiving unit 320 can be altered by the light conversion particles 10. Specifically, by changing the transmittance due to the movement of the light conversion particles 10, the receiving unit 302 can be modified into a light-blocking portion and a light-transmitting portion. That is, the transmittance of light passing through the receiving unit 320 can be changed by the dispersion and aggregation of the light conversion particles 10 disposed in the dispersion body 320a.

[0085] For example, the optical path control component according to the embodiment can change from a first mode to a second mode or from a second mode to a first mode by applying a voltage to the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220.

[0086] In detail, in the optical path control component according to the embodiment, the receiving unit 320 becomes a light-shielding part in the first mode, and light at a specific angle can be blocked by the receiving unit 320. That is, the user's viewing angle from the outside will be narrowed.

[0087] Furthermore, in the optical path control component according to the embodiment, the receiving unit 320 becomes a light-transmitting part in the second mode, and in the optical path control component according to the embodiment, light can pass through both the partition wall unit 310 and the receiving unit 320. That is, the user's viewing angle from the outside is widened.

[0088] The switching from the first mode to the second mode (i.e., the switching of the accommodating unit 320 from the light-blocking part to the light-transmitting part) can be achieved by moving the light-converting particles 10 in the accommodating unit 320. That is, the light-converting particles 10 have an electric charge on their surface and can move in the direction of the first electrode or the second electrode by applying a voltage according to the characteristics of the charge. That is, the light-converting particles 10 can be electrophoretic particles.

[0089] In detail, the receiving unit 320 can be electrically connected to the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220.

[0090] In this configuration, when no voltage is applied to the optical path control member from the outside, the light conversion particles 10 of the receiving unit 320 are uniformly dispersed in the dispersion body 320a, and light can be blocked by the light conversion particles in the receiving unit 320. Therefore, in the first mode, the receiving unit 320 can be driven as a light-shielding part.

[0091] Alternatively, the light-converting particle 10 can be moved when a voltage is applied to the optical path control component from the outside. For example, the light-converting particle 10 can be moved to one end or the other end of the receiving unit 320 by transmitting a voltage through the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220. That is, the light-converting particle 10 can move from the receiving unit 320 to the first electrode or the second electrode.

[0092] In detail, when a voltage is applied to the first electrode 210 and / or the second electrode 220, an electric field is formed between the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220 and the charged carbon black, that is, the light-absorbing particles can move towards the positive electrode of the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220 using the dispersion 320a as a medium.

[0093] That is, when a voltage is applied to the first electrode 210 and / or the second electrode 220, such as Figure 4 As shown, the light-converting particles 10 can move toward the first electrode 210 within the dispersion 320a. That is, the light-converting particles 10 move in one direction, and the receiving unit 320 can be driven to function as a light-transmitting portion.

[0094] Furthermore, when no voltage is applied to the first electrode 210 and / or the second electrode 220, such as Figure 5 As shown, the light-converting particles 10 can be uniformly dispersed in the dispersion 320a to drive the housing unit 320 as a light-shielding part.

[0095] Therefore, the optical path control member according to the embodiment can be driven in two modes depending on the user's surrounding environment. That is, when the user only needs light transmission from a specific angle, the receiving unit is driven as a light-shielding part, or in an environment where the user needs high brightness, a voltage can be applied to drive the receiving unit as a light-transmitting part.

[0096] Therefore, since the optical path control component according to the embodiment can be implemented in two modes according to the user's needs, the optical path control component can be applied regardless of the user's environment.

[0097] Meanwhile, in the second mode where the receiving unit 320 is driven as a light-transmitting part, the light-converting particles 10 of the receiving unit 320 move in the electrode direction, and the emitted light can pass through the receiving part.

[0098] In this situation, light is blocked in the area where the light-converting particles 10 are concentrated within the area of ​​the accommodating unit 320. Therefore, the brightness of the light path control component decreases. Furthermore, the brightness of light decreases in specific areas of the light path control component, thus reducing the brightness uniformity of the area of ​​the light path control component. Consequently, blemishes become visible to the user, reducing visibility.

[0099] Therefore, the optical path control component according to the embodiment may further include scattering particles disposed in the receiving unit 320.

[0100] That is, reference Figure 6 The light-converting particle 10 may include a first particle 11 and a second particle 12.

[0101] The first particle 11 and the second particle 12 can be disposed together in the dispersion 320a. In detail, the first particle 11 and the second particle 12 can be separated from each other and dispersed in the dispersion 320a.

[0102] The first particle 11 and the second particle 12 may have different reflectivities. Specifically, the reflectivity of the first particle 11 may be less than that of the second particle 12. For example, the reflectivity of the first particle 11 may be less than about 0.1%, and the reflectivity of the second particle 12 may be about 50% to about 90%.

[0103] That is, the light incident on the first particle 11 is hardly reflected, the first particle 11 can absorb the light, and the light incident on the second particle 12 can be reflected by about 50% to about 90%, and thus can be scattered.

[0104] Specifically, the first particle 11 can absorb light incident into the receiving unit 320. That is, the receiving unit 320 can be transformed into a light-transmitting part and a light-blocking part by means of the first particle 11. In other words, the first particle 11 can be a light-absorbing particle.

[0105] The first particle 11 can be formed into a spherical shape. Furthermore, the first particle 11 can be formed into a particle size having nanometer-sized dimensions. Specifically, the first particle 11 can be formed into a particle size having a diameter of 500 nm to 700 nm.

[0106] When the particle size of the first particle 11 is less than 500 nm, the dispersion stability may be reduced due to the aggregation of the first particle 11 in the dispersion 320a.

[0107] Furthermore, when the particle size of the first particle 11 exceeds 700 nm, the weight of the first particle 11 increases. Therefore, the first particle 11 will settle to the lower part of the containing unit.

[0108] The first particle 11 may have color. Specifically, the first particle 11 may include a black particle. For example, the first particle 11 may include carbon black.

[0109] The second particle 12 can partially absorb and partially reflect the light incident on the housing unit 320. That is, the second particle 12 can have both reflective and absorptive properties. In other words, the second particle 12 can be a light-scattering particle.

[0110] The second particle 12 can be formed into a spherical shape. Furthermore, the second particle 12 can be formed into a particle size with nanometer-sized particles. Specifically, the second particle 12 can be formed into a particle size of 500 nm to 700 nm. The first particle 11 and the second particle 12 can have the same or similar particle size within the particle size range.

[0111] When the particle size of the second particle 12 is less than 500 nm, the dispersion stability may be reduced due to the aggregation of the second particle 12 in the dispersion 320a.

[0112] Furthermore, when the particle size of the second particle 12 exceeds 700 nm, the weight of the second particle 12 increases. Therefore, the second particle 12 will settle to the lower part of the containing unit.

[0113] The second particle 12 can have color. Specifically, the second particle 12 can include a black particle.

[0114] The second particle 12 may contain a metal. Specifically, the second particle 12 may contain a metal oxide. For example, the second particle 12 may contain at least one of titanium dioxide (TiO2), zirconium oxide (ZrO2), indium oxide (In2O3), tin oxide (SnO2), and aluminum oxide (Al2O3).

[0115] Furthermore, the second particle 12 can be formed into a hollow shape with a hole h. That is, a hollow portion can be formed in the second particle 12. In other words, unlike the first particle 11, the second particle 12 can be formed into a sphere with a hole of a certain size therein.

[0116] Since the second particle 12 includes a pore h, the specific gravity of the second particle 12 can be controlled. Specifically, since the second particle 12 includes a pore h, the specific gravity of the second particle 12 can be reduced.

[0117] For example, when the second particle 12 contains titanium dioxide, the specific gravity of the second particle 12 without pores can be 3.5 to 4.0, and the specific gravity of the second particle 12 with pores can be 2.5 to 2.8.

[0118] Alternatively, when the second particle 12 contains alumina, the specific gravity of the second particle 12 excluding the pores can be 3.7 to 4.2, and the specific gravity of the second particle 12 including the pores can be 2.5 to 3.1.

[0119] Meanwhile, the specific gravity of the first particle 11 containing carbon black can be approximately 1.8 to 2.0.

[0120] That is, since the second particle 12 includes a pore, the specific gravity difference between the first particle 11 and the second particle 12 can be reduced. Therefore, phase separation of the first particle 11 and the second particle 12 due to the specific gravity difference between them can be prevented.

[0121] That is, since the second particle 12 includes a hollow part, the specific gravity of the second particle 12 is reduced, and therefore, the specific gravity difference between the first particle 11 and the second particle 12 can be reduced.

[0122] In detail, the specific gravity of the second particle 12 is 1.2 to 1.6 times that of the first particle 11, so the first particle 11 and the second particle 12 can minimize phase separation.

[0123] That is, the second particle 12, which has a higher specific gravity, is located in the lower part of the containing unit 320, and the first particle 11, which has a lower specific gravity, is located in the upper part of the containing unit 320. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the first particle 11 and the second particle 12 from separating from each other.

[0124] Therefore, the first particle 11 and the second particle disposed within the housing unit 320 can be uniformly dispersed without separating from each other, thereby improving the dispersion of the light conversion particles.

[0125] The first particle 11 and the second particle 12 can carry the same polarity of charge. That is, the surfaces of the first particle 11 and the second particle 12 can carry either a (+) or (-) polarity charge. Therefore, when a voltage is applied to the first electrode and / or the second electrode, the first particle 11 and the second particle 12 can move in the same direction as each other.

[0126] At the same time, refer to Figure 7 The light-converting particles 10 may include a first particle 11, a second particle 12, and a third particle 13.

[0127] Because the first particle 11 and the second particle 12 are related to the above Figure 6 The first particle 11 and the second particle 12 described in the description are the same, so this description will be omitted below.

[0128] Apart from specific gravity, the third particle 13 can have similar properties to the second particle 12.

[0129] The third particle 13 can partially absorb and partially reflect light incident on the containing unit 320. That is, the third particle 13 can have both reflective and absorptive properties. In other words, the third particle 13 can be a light-scattering particle.

[0130] The third particle 13 can be formed into a spherical shape. Furthermore, the third particle 13 can be formed into a particle size with nanometer-sized particles. Specifically, the third particle 13 can be formed into a particle size of 500 nm to 700 nm. Within this particle size range, the third particle 13 can have the same or similar particle size as the first particle 11 and the second particle 12.

[0131] When the particle size of the third particle 13 is less than 500 nm, the dispersibility may be reduced due to the aggregation of the third particle 13 in the dispersion 320a.

[0132] The third particle 13 can have color. Specifically, the third particle 13 can include a black particle.

[0133] The third particle 13 may include the same or similar material as the second particle 12.

[0134] In detail, the third particle 13 may comprise a metal oxide. For example, the third particle 13 may comprise at least one of titanium dioxide (TiO2), zirconium oxide (ZrO2), indium oxide (In2O3), tin oxide (SnO2), and aluminum oxide (Al2O3).

[0135] The second particle 12 and the third particle 13 may contain the same metal oxide or different metal oxides.

[0136] The second particle 12 and the third particle 13 can have different specific gravities. That is, the second particle 12 can be a particle with a hollow part, and the third particle 13 can be a bulk particle without a hole.

[0137] That is, the specific gravity of the third particle 13 can be greater than that of the first particle 11 and the second particle 12.

[0138] The second particle 12 and the third particle 13 can have different reflectivities. Specifically, the reflectivity of the third particle 13 can be greater than that of the second particle 12.

[0139] That is, by including a second particle 12 containing a metal oxide along with the first particle 11, phase separation of particles due to differences in specific gravity can be reduced. Furthermore, by including a third particle 13 with high reflectivity, light scattering can be induced, thereby increasing the frontal transmittance.

[0140] Figure 8 This diagram is used to illustrate an example where only the first particle 11 is disposed within the receiving unit 320. Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating an example in which the first particle 11 and the second particle 12 are arranged together within the housing unit 320.

[0141] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9The second particle 12 can improve the front brightness of the optical path control component.

[0142] For details, please refer to Figure 8 When only the first particle 11, i.e., the light-absorbing particle, is placed within the receiving unit 320, the aggregated first particle can largely block light incident in the direction of the receiving unit. That is, since the light incident in the direction of the receiving unit 320 is blocked and not emitted in the user's direction, the front brightness of the optical path control member is reduced. Furthermore, because the light incident in the direction of the receiving unit 320 is blocked, the brightness in a specific area becomes less than the brightness in other areas, thus reducing the brightness uniformity of the optical path control member.

[0143] However, reference Figure 9 When the first particle 11, the second particle 12, and / or the third particle 13 are arranged together in the housing unit 320, the second particle 12 and / or the third particle 13 can increase the amount of light emitted to the user.

[0144] For details, please refer to Figure 9 Light incident on the second particle 12 via the second particle 12 and / or the third particle 13, which are aggregated with the first particle 11, can be scattered and refracted. Therefore, the amount of light emitted in the user direction through the receiving unit 320 can be increased by the reflection and refraction of light passing through the second particle 12 and / or the third particle 13.

[0145] Therefore, the brightness of the front side of the optical path control component can be improved, and the brightness uniformity of the optical path control component can be improved.

[0146] Meanwhile, when the light-converting particles include a first particle and a second particle, the first particle 11 and the second particle 12 can be included in different weight percentages. Specifically, the content of the first particle 11 in each containing unit can be greater than that of the second particle 12.

[0147] Specifically, the content of the first particle 11 in each containing unit can be from 95 wt% to 99 wt% relative to the total weight of the particles. Furthermore, the content of the second particle 12 can be from 1 wt% to 5 wt% relative to the total weight of the particles.

[0148] When the content of the second particle 12 is less than 1 wt% relative to the total weight of the particles, the light scattering effect of the second particle is small, making it difficult to improve the front transmittance. Furthermore, when the content of the second particle 12 exceeds 5 wt% relative to the total weight of the particles, the amount of the first particle decreases, thereby reducing the light absorption rate in the accommodating unit and decreasing the change in front transmittance.

[0149] Furthermore, when the light conversion particles include a first particle, a second particle, and a third particle, they can contain first particles 11, second particles 12, and third particles 13 with different weight percentages. Specifically, in each containing unit, the content of first particles 11 can be greater than that of second particles 12 and third particles 13.

[0150] Specifically, the content of the first particle 11 in each containing unit may be 95 wt% to 99 wt% relative to the total weight of the particles. Furthermore, the combined content of the second particle 12 and the third particle 13 may be 1 wt% to 5 wt% relative to the total weight of the particles.

[0151] When the sum of the contents of the second particle 12 and the third particle 13 is less than 1 wt% relative to the total weight of the particles, the light scattering effect of the second particle is small, thus reducing the frontal transmittance. Furthermore, when the sum of the contents of the second particle 12 and the third particle 13 is greater than 5 wt% relative to the total weight of the particles, the amount of the first particle decreases, thereby reducing the light absorption rate in the accommodating unit 320 and decreasing the change in frontal transmittance.

[0152] The invention will be described in more detail below by examining the transmittance of optical path control components according to examples and comparative examples. These embodiments are presented by way of example only to explain the invention in more detail. Therefore, the invention is not limited to these examples.

[0153] Example 1

[0154] A first electrode containing indium tin oxide (ITO) and a second electrode are respectively disposed on a surface of a first substrate and a second substrate containing polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0155] Then, UV resin is applied to the first substrate and molded to form a housing unit.

[0156] Then, the light conversion section is formed by filling the housing unit with paraffin oil in which carbon black particles and titanium dioxide particles with hollow sections are dispersed.

[0157] At this point, based on the total weight of the particles, the content of titanium dioxide particles is 5 wt%.

[0158] Next, after bonding the first substrate, the second substrate, and the light conversion unit to prepare the optical path control component, the front transmittance of the optical path control component is measured when a voltage is applied.

[0159] Example 2

[0160] After manufacturing the optical path control component in the same manner as in Example 1, except that paraffin oil in which carbon black particles and alumina particles with hollow portions are dispersed is filled into the housing unit, the front transmittance of the optical path control component is measured when a voltage is applied.

[0161] At this point, based on the total weight of the particles, the content of alumina particles is 5 wt%.

[0162] Example 3

[0163] After manufacturing the optical path control component in the same manner as in Example 1, except that paraffin oil in which carbon black particles, titanium dioxide particles and titanium dioxide particles with hollow portions are dispersed is filled into the receiving unit, the front transmittance of the optical path control component is measured when a voltage is applied.

[0164] At this point, based on the total weight of the particles, the content of titanium dioxide particles and titanium dioxide particles with hollow parts is 5 wt%.

[0165] Example 4

[0166] After manufacturing the optical path control component in the same manner as in Example 1, except that paraffin oil in which carbon black particles, alumina particles and alumina particles with hollow portions are dispersed is filled into the receiving unit, the front transmittance of the optical path control component is measured when a voltage is applied.

[0167] At this point, based on the total weight of the particles, the content of alumina particles and alumina particles with hollow parts is 5 wt%.

[0168] Comparative Example 1

[0169] After manufacturing the optical path control component in the same manner as in Example 1, except that paraffin oil in which only carbon black particles are dispersed is filled into the receiving unit, the front transmittance of the optical path control component is measured when a voltage is applied.

[0170] Comparative Example 2

[0171] After fabricating the optical path control component in the same manner as in Example 1, except that it contains titanium dioxide particles in an amount of 7 wt% relative to the total weight of the particles, the front transmittance of the optical path control component was measured when a voltage was applied.

[0172] Comparative Example 3

[0173] After fabricating the optical path control component in the same manner as in Example 2, except that it contains alumina particles in an amount of 7 wt% relative to the total weight of the particles, the front transmittance of the optical path control component was measured when a voltage was applied.

[0174] Comparative Example 4

[0175] After the optical path control component was manufactured in the same manner as in Example 3, except that it contained titanium dioxide particles and titanium dioxide particles with hollow portions formed therein at a total weight of 7 wt% based on the total weight of the particles, the front transmittance of the optical path control component was measured when a voltage was applied.

[0176] Comparative Example 5

[0177] After the optical path control component was manufactured in the same manner as in Example 4, except that it contained alumina particles and alumina particles with hollow portions formed therein at a total weight of 7 wt% based on the total weight of the particles, the front transmittance of the optical path control component was measured when a voltage was applied.

[0178] [Table 1]

[0179]

[0180] [Table 2]

[0181]

[0182] Table 1 shows the specific gravity, refractive index, and reflectivity of carbon black particles, titanium dioxide particles, titanium dioxide particles with hollow sections, alumina particles, and alumina particles with hollow sections.

[0183] Referring to Table 1, the specific gravity of titanium dioxide and alumina particles with hollow portions is lower than that of titanium dioxide and alumina particles without hollow portions. Therefore, it can be seen that the specific gravity difference with carbon black particles is very small.

[0184] That is, since the embodiments use titanium dioxide particles and alumina particles with hollow parts, phase separation due to the difference in specific gravity can be minimized when mixed with carbon black particles.

[0185] Referring to Table 2, the front transmittance of the optical path control components according to Examples 1 to 4 is greater than that of the optical path control components according to the comparative examples.

[0186] That is, when a voltage is applied to the light path control member according to the first to fourth embodiments to drive the housing unit as a light-transmitting part, the amount of light moving in the front direction increases due to the metal oxide particles that reflect and scatter the light.

[0187] Furthermore, based on the total weight of the particles, when the metal oxide particles exceed 5 wt%, the effect of improving the front transmittance may be small due to the increase in lateral transmittance rather than front transmittance.

[0188] Example 5

[0189] After manufacturing the optical path control component in the same manner as in Example 1, except that paraffin oil in which carbon black particles and titanium dioxide particles with hollow portions are dispersed is filled into the receiving unit, the front transmittance of the optical path control component is measured when a voltage is applied. Furthermore, the front transmittance of the optical path control component is measured again after 1000 hours when a voltage is applied.

[0190] Example 6

[0191] After manufacturing the optical path control component in the same manner as in Example 2, except that paraffin oil in which carbon black particles and alumina particles with hollow portions are dispersed is filled into the receiving unit, the front transmittance of the optical path control component is measured when a voltage is applied. Furthermore, the front transmittance of the optical path control component is measured again after 1000 hours when a voltage is applied.

[0192] Comparative Example 6

[0193] After fabricating the optical path control component in the same manner as in Example 1, the front transmittance of the optical path control component was measured when a voltage was applied. Furthermore, the front transmittance of the optical path control component was measured again after 1000 hours when a voltage was applied.

[0194] Comparative Example 7

[0195] After fabricating the optical path control component in the same manner as in Example 4, the front transmittance of the optical path control component was measured when a voltage was applied. Furthermore, the front transmittance of the optical path control component was measured again after 1000 hours when a voltage was applied.

[0196] [Table 3]

[0197]

[0198] Referring to Table 3, in the optical path control components according to Examples 6 and 7, the frontal transmittance can be maintained even after a period of time.

[0199] In the optical path control components according to Comparative Examples 2 and 3, phase separation may occur due to the difference in specific gravity between the first and second particles over time, which may reduce the frontal transmittance due to the decrease in the properties of the second particle. However, the optical path control components according to Examples 6 and 7 similarly control the specific gravity of particles 1 and 2, so that they have similar frontal transmittance even after a period of time.

[0200] Meanwhile, the receiving unit 320 can be configured to be spaced apart from the first electrode 210 or the second electrode 220.

[0201] For example, refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 The receiving unit 320 can be spaced apart from the first electrode 210.

[0202] The same or similar material as the partition wall 310 can be disposed in the area where the housing unit 320 and the first electrode 210 are spaced apart from each other.

[0203] Therefore, by increasing the transmittance of light emitted in the direction of the observation plane, the brightness of the optical path control component can be improved, thereby enhancing visibility.

[0204] Furthermore, the receiving unit 320 can be positioned at an angle θ. For details, refer to... Figure 12 and Figure 13 The receiving unit 320 can be disposed with an angle θ greater than 0° and less than 90° relative to the first electrode 210. More specifically, the receiving unit 320 can extend upward while having an angle θ greater than 0° and less than 90° relative to one surface of the first electrode 210.

[0205] Therefore, when the optical path control component is used together with the display panel, it can prevent ripples caused by the overlap of the pattern of the display panel and the receiving unit 320 of the optical path control component, thereby improving user visibility.

[0206] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 14 to 19 Describes an optical path control component according to another embodiment.

[0207] Figure 14 and Figure 15 This is another cross-sectional view showing the optical path control component according to an embodiment.

[0208] refer to Figure 14 and Figure 15 Unlike the aforementioned optical path control components, the width of the receiving unit 320 can be narrowed as it extends from the first substrate 110 to the second substrate 120. That is, the width of the receiving unit 320 can be narrowed as it extends from the light-emitting portion to the observation portion.

[0209] Meanwhile, when the light conversion particles 10 have improved dispersion and movement speed in the dispersion body 320a, the driving characteristics of the optical path control component and the display device including it can be improved.

[0210] The driving speed of the optical path component can be defined by the following formula 1.

[0211] [Formula 1]

[0212]

[0213] h: Distance between electrodes (height of the partition wall unit)

[0214] μ: Movement speed

[0215] V: Drive voltage

[0216] Referring to Formula 1, as the moving speed of the light-converting particles increases, the driving speed of the light path control components also increases.

[0217] There are various methods to increase the moving speed of light-converting particles, but when light-converting particles aggregate in a dispersion, their moving speed decreases and the moving speed of each particle is not uniform, which may reduce the driving characteristics of the optical path control components.

[0218] To improve the dispersibility of light-converting particles in a dispersion, the specific gravity of the light-converting particles and the dispersion should be the same or the difference between them should be very small. That is, when the specific gravity difference between the light-converting particles and the dispersion is large, the light-converting particles tend to settle to the bottom of the dispersion. Furthermore, when the specific gravity of the dispersion is increased to reduce the specific gravity difference between the light-converting particles and the dispersion, the driving speed will decrease.

[0219] Therefore, according to another embodiment, the optical path control component reduces the proportion of light conversion particles dispersed in the dispersion. Furthermore, by mixing multiple light conversion particles with different properties, the dispersion of the light conversion particles can be improved, and the driving characteristics of the optical path component can be enhanced.

[0220] refer to Figure 16 According to another embodiment, the light conversion particles of the light path control component may comprise at least one of carbon black and metal oxide. That is, the light path control component according to another embodiment may comprise light conversion particles of the same material.

[0221] For example, the light-converting particle 10 may contain carbon black. Furthermore, the carbon black may be formed as a yoke-shell structure. That is, the carbon black may be formed as a yoke-shell structure having a core and multiple shell structures. Specifically, the light-converting particle may include a core, at least one void disposed on the outer surface of the core, and at least one shell. More specifically, the light-converting particle may be formed as a core-void-shell structure, i.e., a yoke-shell structure having multiple voids and multiple shell structures between the core and the shell.

[0222] The specific gravity of carbon black can range from about 1.8 to 7.9, while that of the dispersion can range from about 0.7 to 1.5. Therefore, when carbon black is used alone as the light-converting particle, it will precipitate due to the specific gravity difference between the carbon black and the dispersion. This aggregation of carbon black may reduce dispersibility.

[0223] Therefore, by forming carbon black with a yoke-shell structure, the specific gravity of carbon black can be reduced and the dispersibility of light-converting particles can be improved.

[0224] The specific gravity of carbon black with a yoke-shell structure can be approximately 0.6 to 1.5. Specifically, the specific gravity of carbon black can vary depending on the number of shells. Specifically, when carbon black has one shell, its specific gravity can be 1.2 to 1.5. Furthermore, when carbon black has two shells, its specific gravity can be 1.0 to 1.3. Furthermore, when carbon black has three shells, its specific gravity can be 0.8 to 1.0. Furthermore, when carbon black has four or more shells, its specific gravity can be 0.6 to 0.9. That is, the specific gravity of carbon black can decrease proportionally with the number of shells.

[0225] That is, the light-converting particles according to the first embodiment may contain carbon black, and the carbon black may be formed into a yoke-shell structure to reduce its specific gravity. Therefore, by making the specific gravity of the light-converting particles and the dispersion similar to each other, the dispersibility of the light-converting particles can be improved, and the driving characteristics of the optical path control component can be improved.

[0226] Furthermore, the specific surface area of ​​carbon black can be varied depending on the amount of carbon black shells. The specific surface area of ​​carbon black can be up to 300 m². 2 / g to 5000m 2 / g.

[0227] Specifically, when carbon black has a single shell, its specific surface area can be 300 m². 2 / g to 5000m 2 / g. Furthermore, when carbon black has two shells, its specific surface area can reach 800 m². 2 / g to 2200m 2 / g. Furthermore, when carbon black has three shells, its specific surface area can reach 1500 m². 2 / g to 3500m 2 / g. Furthermore, when carbon black has four or more shells, its specific surface area can reach 2000 m². 2 / g to 5000m 2 / g. That is, the specific surface area of ​​carbon black can be increased proportionally to the number of shells.

[0228] Therefore, as the specific surface area of ​​carbon black (i.e., the specific surface area of ​​the shell) increases, the migration velocity of light-converting particles in the dispersion can increase. That is, due to the increase in the specific surface area of ​​the light-converting particles, the coating area of ​​the surface charge layer that imparts surface charge to the light-converting particles increases. Therefore, the migration velocity of light-converting particles in the dispersion can be improved.

[0229] That is, as shown in Formula 2 below, the driving speed of the optical path control component can be increased by increasing the moving speed of the light conversion particles in proportion to the amount of surface charge.

[0230] [Formula 2]

[0231]

[0232] ε: Dielectric constant

[0233] ζ: Surface charge

[0234] η: viscosity

[0235] Additionally, as another example, the light-converting particles 12 may comprise metal oxides. Specifically, the light-converting particles comprise at least one metal oxide selected from titanium dioxide (TiO2), iron oxide (Fe2O3), zirconium oxide (ZrO2), indium oxide (In2O3), tin oxide (SnO2), and aluminum oxide (Al2O3).

[0236] Metal oxides can also have a yoke-shell structure similar to that of carbon black. Therefore, by reducing the density difference between the light-converting particles containing metal oxides and the dispersion, the dispersibility of the light-converting particles can be improved.

[0237] Furthermore, in the case of metal oxides, there are more functional groups on the surface compared to carbon black, such as hydroxyl (-OH) and carboxyl (-COOH). Therefore, a surface charge coating, i.e., silane coating, can be easily applied.

[0238] Therefore, unlike carbon black, when using metal oxides, a separate surface modification process is not required. Furthermore, the surface charge can be increased by promoting silane coating with functional groups such as hydroxyl (-OH) or carboxyl (-COOH).

[0239] refer to Figure 17 According to another embodiment, the light conversion particles of the light path control component may include a first particle 11 and a second particle 12 having different shapes and / or types. Specifically, the light conversion particles may include a first particle 11 comprising spherical light conversion particles and a second particle 12 comprising yoke-shell structured light conversion particles.

[0240] For example, light-converting particles can contain carbon black, and light-converting particles can contain spherical carbon black and carbon black with a yoke-shell structure.

[0241] The first particle 11 and the second particle 12 can be mixed at different weight percentages according to the specific gravity of the dispersion.

[0242] For example, when the specific gravity of the dispersion is less than 1, the content of the second particle 12 can be greater than that of the first particle 11. That is, in order to reduce the total specific gravity of the light-converting particles, the content of the second particle 12 can be greater than that of the first particle 11. Specifically, based on the total weight of the particles, the content of the first particle 11 can be from about 30 wt% to less than 50 wt%, and based on the total weight of the particles, the content of the second particle 12 can be from about 50 wt% to about 70 wt%.

[0243] Furthermore, when the specific gravity of the dispersion is 1 or higher, the content of the first particle 11 can be greater than that of the second particle 12. That is, in order to increase the total specific gravity of the light-converting particles, the content of the first particle 11 can be greater than that of the second particle 12. Specifically, based on the total weight of the particles, the content of the first particle 11 can be from about 60 wt% to less than 90 wt%, and based on the total weight of the particles, the content of the second particle 12 can be from about 10 wt% to about 40 wt%.

[0244] Therefore, according to another embodiment, the optical path control member controls the mixing ratio of light conversion particles based on the specific gravity of the dispersion, thereby eliminating the selection limitation based on the specific gravity of the dispersion. Furthermore, by dispersing light conversion particles with appropriate specific gravity, the dispersibility of the light conversion particles can be improved.

[0245] Meanwhile, the light-converting particles may contain at least one of carbon black and metal oxides. The metal oxides may contain at least one of titanium dioxide (TiO2), iron oxide (Fe2O3), zirconium oxide (ZrO2), indium oxide (In2O3), tin oxide (SnO2), and aluminum oxide (Al2O3).

[0246] That is, both the first particle 11 and the second particle 12 can contain carbon black. Alternatively, both the first particle 11 and the second particle 12 can contain metal oxides. Alternatively, the first particle 11 can contain carbon black, and the second particle 12 can contain metal oxides. Alternatively, the first particle 11 can contain metal oxides, and the second particle 12 can contain carbon black.

[0247] refer to Figure 18 According to another embodiment, the light conversion particles of the light path control component may include a first particle 11 and a third particle 13 having different shapes and / or types. Specifically, the light conversion particles may include a first particle 11 comprising spherical light conversion particles and a third particle 13 comprising light conversion particles having a hollow structure with holes formed inside the particles.

[0248] For example, light-converting particles can contain carbon black, and light-converting particles can contain spherical carbon black and carbon black with hollow structures.

[0249] Here, as Figure 18 As shown, a hollow structure can be defined as a hollow shape, that is, a particle structure in which hollow holes h are formed.

[0250] The specific gravities of the hollow third particle 13 and the spherical first particle 11 can be different from each other. Specifically, the specific gravity of the third particle 13 can be less than that of the first particle 11. Specifically, the specific gravity of the third particle 13 can be approximately 1.2 to 1.9.

[0251] The first particle 11 and the third particle 13 can be mixed in different weight percentages.

[0252] Specifically, the first particle 11 can be mixed in a smaller amount by weight compared to the third particle 13. Specifically, based on the total weight of the particles, the first particle 11 can be included in an amount of about 1 wt% to 45 wt%. Furthermore, based on the total weight of the particles, the third particle 13 can be included in an amount of about 55 wt% to 99 wt%.

[0253] The weight percentages of the first particle 11 and the third particle 13 are values ​​defined taking into account the total specific gravity of the electrophoretic particles and light absorption. When the weight percentages are outside the above ratios, the particle's light absorption rate decreases due to the reduced movement speed caused by particle sedimentation, thereby reducing the light blocking rate.

[0254] Therefore, according to another embodiment, the optical path control component mixes and disperses the light conversion particles in a ratio suitable for specific gravity and light absorption, thereby improving the dispersion and light absorption of the light conversion particles.

[0255] Meanwhile, the light-converting particles may contain at least one of carbon black and metal oxides. The metal oxides may contain at least one of titanium dioxide (TiO2), iron oxide (Fe2O3), zirconium oxide (ZrO2), indium oxide (In2O3), tin oxide (SnO2), and aluminum oxide (Al2O3).

[0256] That is, both the first particle 11 and the third particle 13 can contain carbon black. Alternatively, both the first particle 11 and the third particle 13 can contain metal oxides. Alternatively, the first particle 11 can contain carbon black, and the third particle 13 can contain metal oxides. Alternatively, the first particle 11 can contain metal oxides, and the third particle 13 can contain carbon black.

[0257] refer to Figure 19 According to another embodiment, the light conversion particles of the light path control component include a first particle 11, a second particle 12, and a third particle 13 with different shapes and / or types. Specifically, the light conversion particles include a first particle 11 containing spherical light conversion particles, a second particle 12 containing yoke-shell structured light conversion particles, and a third particle 13 containing hollow structured light conversion particles.

[0258] For example, light-converting particles can contain carbon black, and can contain carbon black with a spherical shape, carbon black with a yoke-shell structure, and carbon black with a hollow structure.

[0259] The first particle 11, the second particle 12, and the third particle 13 can have different specific gravities.

[0260] For example, the specific gravity of the first particle 11 can be 1.8 to 7.9, the specific gravity of the second particle 12 can be 0.6 to 1.5, and the specific gravity of the third particle 13 can be 1.2 to 1.9.

[0261] Furthermore, the first particle 11, the second particle 12, and the third particle 13 can be mixed in different weight percentages.

[0262] Specifically, the first particle 11 can be mixed at a lower weight percentage than the second particle 12 and the third particle 13. Furthermore, the third particle 13 can be mixed at an even smaller weight percentage compared to the second particle 12.

[0263] In detail, the weight percentage of the first particle 11, the second particle 12, and the third particle 13 can be from 1:1.5:2.5 to 1:2:3.

[0264] The weight percentages of the first particle 11 and the third particle 13 are values ​​defined taking into account the total specific gravity of the electrophoretic particles and light absorption. When the weight percentages are outside the above ratios, the particle's light absorption rate decreases due to the reduced movement speed caused by particle sedimentation, thereby reducing the light blocking rate.

[0265] Therefore, according to another embodiment, the optical path control component mixes and disperses the light conversion particles in a ratio suitable for specific gravity and light absorption, thereby improving the dispersion and light absorption of the light conversion particles.

[0266] Meanwhile, the light-converting particles may contain at least one of carbon black and metal oxides. The metal oxides may contain at least one of titanium dioxide (TiO2), iron oxide (Fe2O3), zirconium oxide (ZrO2), indium oxide (In2O3), tin oxide (SnO2), and aluminum oxide (Al2O3).

[0267] That is, the first particle 11, the second particle 12, and the third particle 13 can all contain carbon black. Alternatively, the first particle 11, the second particle 12, and the third particle 13 can all contain metal oxides. Alternatively, the first particle 11 can contain carbon black, and the second particle 12 and the third particle 13 can contain metal oxides. Alternatively, the first particle 11 can contain metal oxides, and the second particle 12 and the third particle 13 can contain carbon black. Furthermore, the first particle 11 and the second particle 12 can contain carbon black, and the third particle 13 can contain metal oxides. Furthermore, the first particle 11 and the second particle 12 can contain metal oxides, and the second particle 13 can contain carbon black. Additionally, the first particle 11 and the third particle 13 can contain carbon black, and the second particle 12 can contain metal oxides. Furthermore, the first particle 11 and the third particle 13 can contain metal oxides, and the second particle 13 can contain carbon black.

[0268] According to the embodiment, the optical path control component can control the specific gravity of the electrophoretic particles included in the containing unit.

[0269] That is, the containment unit according to the embodiment can reduce the specific gravity difference between the electrophoretic particles and the dispersion by using a single particle or a mixture of at least two kinds of particles with different shapes and types.

[0270] Therefore, the aggregation of electrophoretic particles due to the specific gravity difference between the electrophoretic particles and the dispersion can be prevented. Furthermore, by reducing the specific gravity difference between the electrophoretic particles and the dispersion, the movement speed of the electrophoretic particles in the dispersion can be increased when a voltage is applied to the optical path control member. Therefore, the optical path control member according to the embodiment can have improved driving characteristics.

[0271] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 20 to 27 A method for manufacturing an optical path control component according to an embodiment is described.

[0272] First, refer to Figure 20 An electrode material is prepared to form the first substrate 110 and the first electrode. Subsequently, the electrode material can be formed on one surface of the first substrate 110 by a coating or deposition process. Specifically, the electrode material can be formed on the entire surface of the first substrate 110. Therefore, the first electrode 210, formed as a surface electrode, can be formed on the first substrate 110.

[0273] Subsequently, reference Figure 21 A resin layer can be formed by coating the first electrode 210 with a resin material. Specifically, a resin layer can be formed by coating the first electrode 210 with polyurethane resin or acrylic resin.

[0274] Subsequently, a patterned portion can be formed on the resin layer using a mold. Specifically, holes or grooves are formed in the resin layer using an embossing mold, and correspondingly, partition wall units can be formed using the remaining resin layer. That is, the aforementioned partition wall units 310 and receiving units 320 can be formed on the resin layer.

[0275] Subsequently, reference Figure 22 The electrode material for forming the second substrate 120 and the second electrode is prepared. Subsequently, the electrode material can be formed on one surface of the second substrate 120 by a coating or deposition process. Specifically, the electrode material can be formed on the entire surface of the second substrate 120. Therefore, the second electrode 220, formed as a surface electrode, can be formed on the second substrate 120.

[0276] Subsequently, reference Figure 23 An adhesive layer 400 can be formed by coating an adhesive material onto the second electrode 220. The adhesive layer 400 can be formed on a portion of the second electrode 220.

[0277] Subsequently, reference Figure 24 The first substrate 110 and the second substrate 120, which are pre-manufactured, can be bonded together. In detail, the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 120 can be bonded together with an adhesive layer 400 on the second substrate 120.

[0278] In this case, the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 120 can be bonded in different directions. Specifically, the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 120 can be bonded to each other such that the long side direction of the first substrate 110 and the short side direction of the second substrate 120 overlap each other.

[0279] Subsequently, reference Figure 25 A dam 600 can be formed on the first substrate 110. Specifically, the dam 600 can be disposed above and below the receiving unit 320 disposed on the first substrate 110. That is, the dam 600 can be configured such that the receiving unit 320 is disposed between the dams 600.

[0280] Subsequently, reference Figure 26 A light-converting material can be injected between the housing units 320 (i.e., between the partition wall units 310). Specifically, the light-converting material, in which light-absorbing particles (e.g., carbon black) are dispersed in an electrolyte solvent containing a paraffin solvent, can be injected between the housing units 320 (i.e., between the partition wall units). Therefore, the aforementioned partition wall units 310 can be formed between the housing units 320.

[0281] Subsequently, reference Figure 27 The light conversion material inside the housing unit can be sealed from the outside by forming a sealing portion 500 in the lateral direction of the housing unit 320. Subsequently, the final optical path control component can be formed by cutting the first substrate 110.

[0282] In the following text, see references Figures 28 to 30 The present invention will describe a display device and a display apparatus that utilize the optical path control component according to an embodiment.

[0283] refer to Figure 28 According to the embodiment, the optical path control component 1000 can be disposed on the display panel 2000.

[0284] The display panel 2000 and the optical path control component 1000 can be configured to be bonded to each other. For example, the display panel 2000 and the optical path control component 1000 can be bonded to each other via an adhesive layer 1500. The adhesive layer 1500 can be transparent. For example, the adhesive layer 1500 can include an adhesive or an adhesive layer containing an optically transparent adhesive material.

[0285] The adhesive layer 1500 may include a release film. Specifically, when bonding the optical path control component and the display panel, the optical path control component and the display panel can be bonded after the release film is removed.

[0286] The display panel 2000 may include a first substrate 2100 and a second substrate 2200. When the display panel 2000 is a liquid crystal display panel, the display panel 2000 may be formed as a structure in which a first substrate 2100 including a thin film transistor (TFT) and a pixel electrode and a second substrate 2200 including a color filter layer are bonded together by a liquid crystal layer interposed therebetween.

[0287] Furthermore, the display panel 2000 can be a liquid crystal display panel with a color filter on transistor (COT) structure, wherein thin-film transistors, color filters, and a black matrix are formed on the first substrate 2100, and the second substrate 2200 is bonded to the first substrate 2100 through a liquid crystal layer interposed between the first substrate 2100 and the second substrate 2200. That is, thin-film transistors can be formed on the first substrate 2100, a protective film can be formed on the thin-film transistors, and a color filter layer can be formed on the protective film. In addition, pixel electrodes in contact with the thin-film transistors can be formed on the first substrate 2100. In this case, in order to improve the aperture ratio and simplify the mask process, the black matrix can be omitted, and a common electrode can be formed as the black matrix.

[0288] In addition, when the display panel 2000 is a liquid crystal display panel, the display device may also include a backlight unit that provides light from the rear surface of the display panel 2000.

[0289] Alternatively, when the display panel 2000 is an organic light-emitting display panel, it may include self-emissive elements that do not require a separate light source. In the display panel 2000, thin-film transistors may be formed on the first substrate 2100, and organic light-emitting elements in contact with the thin-film transistors may be formed. The organic light-emitting element may include an anode, a cathode, and an organic light-emitting layer formed between the anode and cathode. Furthermore, a second substrate 2200, configured as a packaging substrate for encapsulation, may be further included on the organic light-emitting element.

[0290] Furthermore, although not shown in the accompanying drawings, a polarizing plate may be further disposed between the optical path control member 1000 and the display panel 2000. The polarizing plate may be a linear polarizing plate or a polarizing plate that prevents external light reflection. For example, when the display panel 2000 is a liquid crystal display panel, the polarizing plate may be a linear polarizing plate. Furthermore, when the display panel 2000 is an organic light-emitting display panel, the polarizing plate may be a polarizing plate that prevents external light reflection.

[0291] Furthermore, an additional functional layer 1300, such as an anti-reflective layer or an anti-glare component, can be further provided on the optical path control component 1000. Specifically, the functional layer 1300 can be bonded to one surface of the substrate of the optical path control component. Although not shown in the figures, the functional layer 1300 can be bonded to the substrate 100 of the optical path control component via an adhesive layer. Additionally, a release film for protecting the functional layer can be further provided on the functional layer 1300.

[0292] In addition, a touch panel can be further installed between the display panel and the optical path control components.

[0293] Although the accompanying drawings show the light path control component disposed at the upper part of the display panel, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The light path control component can be disposed at various locations, such as the adjustable light position, i.e., at the lower part of the display panel, between the second substrate and the first substrate of the display panel, etc.

[0294] refer to Figure 29 and Figure 30 The optical path control component according to the embodiment can be applied to a vehicle.

[0295] refer to Figure 29 and Figure 30 The optical path control component according to the embodiment can be applied to a display device for displaying display content.

[0296] For example, such as Figure 29 As shown, when no power is applied to the optical path control component, the housing unit acts as a light-shielding part, causing the display device to be driven in a light-shielding mode, and as... Figure 30 As shown, when electricity is applied to the optical path control component, the housing unit serves as a light-transmitting part, allowing the display device to be driven in an open mode.

[0297] Therefore, users can easily drive the display device in either privacy or normal mode depending on the amount of power applied.

[0298] Furthermore, although not shown in the accompanying drawings, a display device employing the optical path control component according to the embodiment can also be used in a vehicle.

[0299] For example, a display device including the optical path control component according to an embodiment can display video confirmation information of the vehicle and the vehicle's movement route. The display device can be disposed between the driver's seat and the passenger seat of the vehicle.

[0300] Furthermore, the optical path control component according to the embodiment can be applied to a dashboard that displays vehicle speed, engine, alarm signals, etc.

[0301] Furthermore, the optical path control component according to the embodiment can be applied to the front windshield (FG) or the left and right side windows of a vehicle.

[0302] The features, structures, effects, etc., described in the above embodiments are included in at least one embodiment of the present invention, but are not limited to one embodiment. Furthermore, those skilled in the art can combine or modify the features, structures, and effects shown in each embodiment for other embodiments. Therefore, it should be understood that such combinations and modifications are included within the scope of the present invention.

[0303] Furthermore, while the foregoing has primarily described embodiments, these embodiments are merely examples and not intended to limit the invention. Those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and applications not described above can be made without departing from the fundamental characteristics of the embodiments. For example, each component specifically represented in the embodiments may be altered. Moreover, it should be understood that differences associated with such modifications and applications are included within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An optical path control component, comprising: First substrate; The first electrode is disposed on the first substrate; The second substrate is disposed on the first substrate; The second electrode is disposed below the second substrate; as well as The light conversion unit is disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The light conversion unit includes alternating partition wall units and accommodating units. The accommodating unit changes its transmittance according to the applied voltage. The containing unit includes a dispersion and light-converting particles dispersed in the dispersion. The light-converting particles include a first particle and a second particle. The reflectivity of the second particle is greater than that of the first particle. A hollow portion is formed within the second particle. The surfaces of the first particle and the second particle carry the same polarity of charge.

2. The optical path control component according to claim 1, wherein, The first particle absorbs light, and The reflectivity of the second particle is 50% to 90%.

3. The optical path control component according to claim 1, wherein, The first particle includes carbon black particles. The second particle includes metal oxide particles. The metal oxide includes at least one of titanium dioxide (TiO2), zirconium oxide (ZrO2), indium oxide (In2O3), tin oxide (SnO2), and aluminum oxide (Al2O3).

4. The optical path control component according to claim 1, wherein, Based on the total weight of the particles, the content of the second particle is 1 wt% to 5 wt%.

5. The optical path control component according to claim 3, wherein, The particle size of the first particle and the second particle is 500 nm to 700 nm.

6. The optical path control component according to claim 1, wherein, The specific gravity of the second particle is 1.2 to 1.6 times that of the specific gravity of the first particle.

7. The optical path control component according to claim 1, wherein, The light-converting particles further include a third particle with a density greater than that of the first and second particles. The second and third particles comprise metal oxide particles. The metal oxide includes at least one of titanium dioxide (TiO2), zirconium oxide (ZrO2), indium oxide (In2O3), tin oxide (SnO2), and aluminum oxide (Al2O3). Wherein, based on the total weight of the particles, the sum of the contents of the second particle and the third particle is 1 wt% to 5 wt%.

8. An optical path control component, comprising: First substrate; The first electrode is disposed on the first substrate; The second substrate is disposed on the first substrate; The second electrode is disposed below the second substrate; as well as The light conversion unit is disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The light conversion unit includes alternating partition wall units and accommodating units. The accommodating unit changes its transmittance according to the applied voltage. The containing unit includes a dispersion and a plurality of light-converting particles dispersed in the dispersion. The plurality of light-converting particles include a first particle, a second particle, and a third particle. The first particle has a spherical shape. The second particle comprises a yoke-shell shape, the yoke-shell shape having a core, a shell disposed on the outer surface of the core, and a gap disposed between the core and the shell. The third particle has a hollow shape. The specific gravity of the second particle is between 0.6 and 1.

5. The first particle, the second particle, and the third particle are mixed in different weight percentages. Wherein, the weight percentage of the first particle is lower than the weight percentage of the second particle and the third particle. Wherein, the weight percentage of the third particle is lower than the weight percentage of the second particle, and The first particle, the second particle, and the third particle move and aggregate in the same direction within the containing unit according to the application of voltage.

9. The optical path control component according to claim 8, wherein, The specific gravity of the first particle is between 1.8 and 7.

9.

10. The optical path control component according to claim 9, wherein, in, The specific gravity of the third particle is 1.2 to 1.

9.

11. The optical path control component according to claim 8, wherein, The weight percentages of the first particle, the second particle, and the third particle are between 1:1.5:2.5 and 1:2:

3.

12. The optical path control component according to claim 11, wherein, The first particle, the second particle, and the third particle comprise at least one of carbon black, titanium dioxide (TiO2), iron oxide (Fe2O3), zirconium oxide (ZrO2), indium oxide (In2O3), tin oxide (SnO2), and aluminum oxide (Al2O3).

13. A display device, comprising: Display panel; as well as The optical path control component is disposed on the display panel. The optical path control component includes: First substrate; The first electrode is disposed on the first substrate; The second substrate is disposed on the first substrate; A second electrode is disposed below the second substrate; and The light conversion unit is disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The light conversion unit includes alternating partition wall units and accommodating units. The accommodating unit changes its transmittance according to the applied voltage. The containing unit includes a dispersion and light-converting particles dispersed in the dispersion. The light-converting particles include a first particle and a second particle. The reflectivity of the second particle is greater than that of the first particle. A hollow portion is formed within the second particle. The surfaces of the first particle and the second particle carry the same polarity of charge.

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