Liquid crystal display panel and liquid crystal display device

Abstract

Disclosed is a liquid crystal display panel and a liquid crystal display device. The liquid crystal display panel includes a plurality of pixels. Each pixel includes a pixel electrode, a common electrode, and a liquid crystal that rotates in a plane due to a voltage applied by the pixel electrode and the common electrode. The pixel electrode includes a linear electrode. When an initial alignment direction of a liquid crystal whose dielectric anisotropy is positive or a direction perpendicular to an initial alignment direction of a liquid crystal whose dielectric anisotropy is negative is defined as a predetermined first direction, at a boundary between pixels adjacent to each other among the plurality of pixels, a boundary line between the adjacent pixels, the linear electrode, and an end edge of the linear electrode are inclined with respect to the predetermined first direction, and the inclination directions of the boundary line, the linear electrode, and the end edge with respect to the predetermined first direction are the same.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-019878, filed on February 10, 2022, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-172191, filed on October 27, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to liquid crystal display panels and liquid crystal display devices. Background Technology

[0004] In the prior art, liquid crystal display devices are known to improve contrast by stacking multiple liquid crystal display panels. For example, unexamined Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-120045 describes a liquid crystal display device in which multiple display panels are stacked and an image is displayed on each display panel, wherein the liquid crystal display device includes a first display panel displaying a color image and a second display panel displaying a black and white image.

[0005] In unexamined Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-120045, the pixel electrodes of the second display panel have a generally parallelogram shape, and multiple slits extending along the column direction are formed on the pixel electrodes of the second display panel. Furthermore, the pixel electrodes of the second display panel include a first side extending along the column direction, a second side extending along the column direction and opposite to the first side, a third side connecting corresponding first ends of the first and second sides, and a fourth side connecting corresponding second ends of the first and second sides. The third and fourth sides are each tilted at a predetermined angle relative to the row direction. In unexamined Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-120045, by tilting the third and fourth sides relative to the row direction, the observer is prevented from visually perceiving black matrices, wiring, etc., as periodic changes in brightness. In other words, by tilting the third and fourth sides relative to the row direction, dark lines appearing at the boundaries between adjacent pixels in the column direction are suppressed.

[0006] When multiple liquid crystal display panels are stacked, the transmittance of the stacked display panels is the product of the transmittance of each individual liquid crystal display panel, and is therefore lower than the transmittance of a single display panel. Therefore, it is necessary to improve the transmittance of each stacked liquid crystal display panel. The second display panel in unexamined Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-120045 operates in a lateral electric field mode. Among liquid crystal display panels operating in a lateral electric field mode, there are also liquid crystal display panels in which the pixel electrodes are formed by linear electrodes (branches) (e.g., unexamined Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-513111 (translation of a PCT application)). When the pixel electrodes are formed by linear electrodes, even if the appearance of dark lines is suppressed, misaligned lines appearing between adjacent pixels may become dark areas, and the transmittance of the liquid crystal display panel may decrease.

[0007] This disclosure is made in view of the above circumstances, and the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a liquid crystal display panel and a liquid crystal display device with high transmittance. Summary of the Invention

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, according to a first aspect of this disclosure, a liquid crystal display panel includes:

[0009] Multiple pixels, each pixel including a pixel electrode, a common electrode, and liquid crystal, wherein the liquid crystal rotates in a plane due to a voltage applied by the pixel electrode and the common electrode, wherein...

[0010] The pixel electrode includes a linear electrode, and

[0011] When the initial orientation direction of a liquid crystal with positive dielectric anisotropy or the direction perpendicular to the initial orientation direction of a liquid crystal with negative dielectric anisotropy is defined as a predetermined first direction...

[0012] At the boundary between adjacent pixels in the plurality of pixels, the boundary line between the adjacent pixels, the linear electrode and the end edge of the linear electrode are inclined relative to the predetermined first direction, and the inclination direction of the boundary line, the linear electrode and the end edge relative to the predetermined first direction is the same.

[0013] The liquid crystal display device according to the second aspect of this disclosure includes:

[0014] A liquid crystal display panel that displays monochrome images; and

[0015] A color liquid crystal display panel that displays color images.

[0016] It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and illustrative, and do not limit this disclosure.

[0017] According to this disclosure, the boundary lines between adjacent pixels, the linear electrodes, and the edge of the linear electrodes are tilted in the same direction relative to a predetermined first direction. Therefore, the rotation of the liquid crystal at the boundary between adjacent pixels can be controlled, and the transmittance of the liquid crystal display panel can be improved. Attached Figure Description

[0018] A more complete understanding of this application can be obtained by considering the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing a liquid crystal display device according to Embodiment 1;

[0020] Figure 2 This is a plan view showing a color liquid crystal display panel according to Embodiment 1;

[0021] Figure 3 This shows a cross-sectional view of the liquid crystal display device according to Embodiment 1;

[0022] Figure 4 This is a plan view of a liquid crystal display panel according to Embodiment 1;

[0023] Figure 5 This is a plan view showing the scanning wiring, pixel electrodes, etc. of the liquid crystal display panel according to Embodiment 1;

[0024] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The cross-sectional view of the switching element shown is taken along line AA;

[0025] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 The cross-sectional view of the contact hole along line BB is shown.

[0026] Figure 8 This is a plan view showing the pixel electrodes of the liquid crystal display panel according to Embodiment 1;

[0027] Figure 9 This is a plan view showing the boundary between adjacent pixels of a liquid crystal display panel according to Embodiment 1;

[0028] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the rotation of liquid crystal molecules according to Example 1;

[0029] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing the rotation of liquid crystal molecules within the main pixel according to Embodiment 1;

[0030] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing the rotation of liquid crystal molecules at the boundary according to Example 1;

[0031] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram showing the rotation of the liquid crystal according to Comparative Example 1;

[0032] Figure 14 This is a plan view showing the relationship between the main pixels of the liquid crystal display panel and the main pixels of the color liquid crystal display panel according to Embodiment 1;

[0033] Figure 15 This is a block diagram showing a display controller according to Embodiment 1;

[0034] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram showing the rotation of the liquid crystal according to Embodiment 2;

[0035] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram showing the rotation of liquid crystal molecules within the main pixel according to Embodiment 2;

[0036] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram showing the rotation of liquid crystal molecules at the boundary according to Example 2;

[0037] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram showing the rotation of the liquid crystal according to Comparative Example 2;

[0038] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram showing the end edge of a linear electrode according to a modified example;

[0039] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram showing the end edge and boundary line of a linear electrode according to a modified example;

[0040] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram showing a linear electrode according to a modified example; and

[0041] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram showing a linear electrode according to a modified example. Detailed Implementation

[0042] Hereinafter, liquid crystal display panels and liquid crystal display devices according to various embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0043] Example 1

[0044] Reference Figures 1 to 15 The liquid crystal display device 10 and liquid crystal display panel 200 according to this embodiment are described. The liquid crystal display device 10 displays color images using the color liquid crystal display panel 100 and liquid crystal display panel 200 described later.

[0045] like Figure 1As shown, the liquid crystal display device 10 includes a panel portion 50, a backlight 300, and a display controller 400. The panel portion 50 includes a color liquid crystal display panel 100 and a liquid crystal display panel 200. The backlight 300 is a light source that emits light onto the color liquid crystal display panel 100 and the liquid crystal display panel 200. The display controller 400 controls the display of the color liquid crystal display panel 100 and the liquid crystal display panel 200. Note that in this specification, for ease of understanding, [the following is a simplified explanation of the terminology used in the original text]. Figure 1 In the liquid crystal display device 10, the right direction (the right direction on the paper) is called the "+X direction", the up direction (the up direction on the paper) is called the "+Y direction", and the direction perpendicular to the +X direction and the +Y direction (the front direction on the paper) is called the "+Z direction".

[0046] Panel section

[0047] Panel portion 50 includes a color liquid crystal display panel 100 and a liquid crystal display panel 200. The color liquid crystal display panel 100 is located on the observer side (+Z side) and displays a color image. The liquid crystal display panel 200 is located on the side of the color liquid crystal display panel 100 opposite to the observer side surface (the back side of the color liquid crystal display panel 100) and overlaps with the color liquid crystal display panel 100. The liquid crystal display panel 200 displays a monochrome image.

[0048] Color LCD display panel

[0049] In one example, the color liquid crystal display panel 100 is implemented as a known transmissive horizontal electric field type liquid crystal display panel. The color liquid crystal display panel 100 is an active matrix driven by thin film transistors (TFTs).

[0050] like Figure 2 As shown, the color liquid crystal display panel 100 includes main pixels 102 arranged in a matrix within a rectangular display area 101. The main pixels 102 include red pixels 104R that emit red light, green pixels 104G that emit green light, and blue pixels 104B that emit blue light, these pixels being defined in a V-shape by a black matrix BM. Note that the red pixels 104R, green pixels 104G, and blue pixels 104B can be collectively referred to as "subpixels 104".

[0051] like Figure 3 As shown, the color liquid crystal display panel 100 includes a first TFT substrate 110, a first opposing substrate 120, a first liquid crystal 130, a first polarizing plate 132, a second polarizing plate 134, and a first driving circuit 136. The first TFT substrate 110 and the first opposing substrate 120 sandwich the first liquid crystal 130. The first polarizing plate 132 is disposed on the first TFT substrate 110. The second polarizing plate 134 is disposed on the first opposing substrate 120.

[0052] In one example, the first TFT substrate 110 is implemented as a glass substrate. The TFT for selecting the sub-pixel 104, the common electrode, the pixel electrode, the alignment film for aligning the first liquid crystal 130, etc. (all not shown) are disposed on the main surface 110a of the first liquid crystal 130 side of the first TFT substrate 110.

[0053] Furthermore, multiple common wirings, multiple signal wirings, and multiple scan wirings (not shown in the figure) are formed on the main surface 110a of the first TFT substrate 110. The common wirings provide a common potential to the common electrode that applies voltage to the first liquid crystal 130. The signal wirings provide voltage to the pixel electrode that applies voltage to the first liquid crystal 130 via the TFT. The scan wirings provide voltage for operating the TFT. The sub-pixel 104 is surrounded by the signal wirings and scan wirings, and the TFT is disposed at the intersection of the scan wirings and the signal wirings. The first polarizing plate 132 is disposed on the main surface 110b of the first TFT substrate 110 on the side opposite to the main surface 110a.

[0054] like Figure 3 As shown, the first opposing substrate 120 faces the first TFT substrate 110 and is adhered to the first TFT substrate 110 by a sealing material 138. In one example, the first opposing substrate 120 is implemented as a glass substrate. A color filter layer 122, a black matrix BM, an alignment film for aligning the first liquid crystal 130, etc., are disposed on the main surface 110a of the first opposing substrate 120 on the side of the first liquid crystal 130. In one example, the color filter layer 122 is implemented as a strip-shaped color filter. The red color filter, green color filter, and blue color filter of the color filter layer 122 are each surrounded by a black matrix BM and correspond to the red pixel 104R, green pixel 104G, and blue pixel 104B, respectively. A second polarizing plate 134 is disposed on the main surface 120b of the first opposing substrate 120 on the side opposite to the main surface 120a. Note that, for ease of understanding, Figure 3 The black matrix BM and the orientation film are omitted.

[0055] A first liquid crystal 130 is sandwiched between a first TFT substrate 110 and a first opposing substrate 120. In one example, the first liquid crystal 130 is implemented as a non-nematic liquid crystal. The first liquid crystal 130 is aligned in a direction parallel to the main surface 110a of the first TFT substrate 110 by an alignment film. Furthermore, due to the application of a voltage, the first liquid crystal 130 rotates in a plane parallel to the main surface 110a of the first TFT substrate 110.

[0056] A first polarizing plate 132 is disposed on the main surface 110b of the first TFT substrate 110. A second polarizing plate 134 is disposed on the main surface 120b of the first opposing substrate 120. One transmission axis of the polarizing plate, namely the transmission axis of the first polarizing plate 132 and the transmission axis of the second polarizing plate 134, is arranged parallel to the orientation direction of the first liquid crystal 130. The first polarizing plate 132 is adhered to the second opposing substrate 220 of the liquid crystal display panel 200 described below by a light-transmitting adhesive layer 150. In one example, the adhesive layer 150 is implemented as an optically clear adhesive (OCA).

[0057] A first driving circuit 136 is disposed on the main surface 110a of the first TFT substrate 110. The first driving circuit 136 provides voltage to the scan wiring, signal wiring and common wiring based on the color image signal provided from the display controller 400.

[0058] LCD display panel

[0059] like Figure 3 As shown, the liquid crystal display panel 200 is located on the back side (-Z side) of the color liquid crystal display panel 100 and is adhered to the color liquid crystal display panel 100 by an adhesive layer 150. The liquid crystal display panel 200 displays a monochrome image.

[0060] In this embodiment, the liquid crystal display panel 200 is implemented as a transmissive horizontal electric field type liquid crystal display panel using positive liquid crystal. The liquid crystal display panel 200 is an active matrix driven by the switching element 240 described below. Figure 4 As shown, the liquid crystal display panel 200 includes main pixels 202 arranged in a matrix within a rectangular display area 201. The main pixels 202 of the liquid crystal display panel 200 emit light to a plurality of sub-pixels 104 of the color liquid crystal display panel 100. The relationship between the main pixels 202 of the liquid crystal display panel 200 and the main pixels 102 of the color liquid crystal display panel 100 will be described later. Note that in Figure 4 In this design, the shape of the main pixel 202 of the liquid crystal display panel 200 has been simplified.

[0061] like Figure 3 As shown, the liquid crystal display panel 200 includes a second TFT substrate 210, a second opposing substrate 220, a second liquid crystal 230, a third polarizing plate 232, and a second driving circuit 236. The second TFT substrate 210 and the second opposing substrate 220 sandwich the second liquid crystal 230. The third polarizing plate 232 is disposed on the second TFT substrate 210. Note that in this embodiment, the first polarizing plate 132 of the color liquid crystal display panel 100 also serves as the polarizing plate on the light-emitting side of the liquid crystal display panel 200. Additionally, note that the liquid crystal display panel 200 does not have a color filter or a black matrix.

[0062] In one example, the second TFT substrate 210 is implemented as a glass substrate. Multiple scan lines GL, multiple signal lines DL, a common line (not shown), a switching element 240, a pixel electrode 250, and a common electrode CE for the main pixel 202 are formed on the main surface 210a of the second TFT substrate 210 on the side of the second liquid crystal 230 (described in detail below). The common line provides a common potential to the common electrode CE, which applies voltage to the second liquid crystal 230. The signal lines DL provide voltage to the pixel electrode 250, which applies voltage to the second liquid crystal 230, via the switching element 240. The scan lines GL provide a voltage for operating the switching element 240. A third polarizer 232 is disposed on the main surface 210b of the second TFT substrate 210 on the side opposite to the main surface 210a. The configuration of the scan lines GL, pixel electrode 250, etc., will be described later.

[0063] The second opposing substrate 220 is opposite to the second TFT substrate 210 and is adhered to the second TFT substrate 120 by a sealing material 238. In one example, the second opposing substrate 220 is implemented as a glass substrate. An alignment film (not shown) for aligning the second liquid crystal 230 is provided on the main surface 220a of the second opposing substrate 220 on the side of the second opposing substrate 220. An adhesive layer 150 is provided on the main surface 220b of the second opposing substrate 220 on the side opposite to the main surface 220a. The second opposing substrate 220 is adhered to the color liquid crystal display panel 100 (first polarizing plate 132) via the adhesive layer 150.

[0064] The second liquid crystal 230 is sandwiched between the second TFT substrate 210 and the second opposing substrate 220. The second liquid crystal 230 is implemented as a positive (positive dielectric anisotropy) nematic liquid crystal. The second liquid crystal 230 is initially aligned in the +Y direction by an alignment film. In this embodiment, the +Y direction, which is the initial alignment direction of the positive second liquid crystal 230, corresponds to a predetermined first direction.

[0065] Due to the applied voltage, the second liquid crystal 230 rotates in a plane parallel to the main surface 210a of the second TFT substrate 210. The rotation of the second liquid crystal 230 will be described later.

[0066] The third polarizing plate 232 is disposed on the main surface 210b of the second TFT substrate 210. The light transmission axis of the third polarizing plate 232 is arranged parallel to the initial alignment direction of the second liquid crystal 230. Note that the light transmission axis of the third polarizing plate 232 of the color liquid crystal display panel 100 is orthogonal to the light transmission axis of the first polarizing plate 132 (the polarizing plate on the light-emitting side of the liquid crystal display panel 200), and the liquid crystal display panel 200 operates in normal black mode.

[0067] The second driving circuit 236 is disposed on the main surface 210a of the second TFT substrate 210. The second driving circuit 236 provides voltage to the scan wiring GL, signal wiring DL and common wiring based on the signal provided from the display controller 400.

[0068] Next, refer to Figures 4 to 11 Describe the configuration of scan routing GL, signal routing DL, main pixel 202, etc. Figure 5 It is a plan view showing one of the scan wiring GL, signal wiring DL, pixel electrode 250, etc. Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of one of the switching elements 240 shown, taken along line AA, and Figure 7 yes Figure 5 The cross-sectional view of the contact hole CH taken along line BB is shown. Figure 8 This is a plan view showing the pixel electrode 250. Note that, for ease of understanding, in... Figure 5 A portion of the linear electrode 254 of the pixel electrode 250 (described later) and the common electrode CE are omitted. Furthermore, Figure 6 and Figure 7 The shading of the third insulating layer 278 is omitted. Figure 8 In the image, pixel electrode 250 is shown by a solid line.

[0069] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the scan wiring GL extends in a zigzag pattern along the X direction. As described later, the bending point P1 of each scan wiring GL overlaps with the black matrix BM extending along the X direction of the color liquid crystal display panel 100. Figure 7 As shown, each scan line GL is formed on the main surface 210a of the second TFT substrate 210 and is covered by a first insulating layer 272. The scan line GL is formed of a metal such as aluminum (Al) or molybdenum (Mo). In this embodiment, the X direction of the scan line GL corresponds to a predetermined second direction.

[0070] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the signal wiring DL extends along the Y direction and bends along the linear electrode 254 of the pixel electrode 250. Figure 6 As shown, each signal trace DL is formed on the first insulating layer 272 and covered by the second insulating layer 274. The signal trace DL is also formed of a metal such as aluminum (Al) or molybdenum (Mo).

[0071] like Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, each common electrode CE is formed on an organic interlayer film 276 formed on the second insulating layer 274. In one example, the common electrode CE is formed of indium tin oxide (ITO). The common electrode CE is covered by a third insulating layer 278.

[0072] The switching element 240 is positioned near the intersection of the scan routing GL and the signal routing DL. For example... Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, each switching element 240 includes a gate 242, a semiconductor layer 244, a source 246, and a drain 248. In one example, the switching element 240 is implemented as a TFT element.

[0073] The gate 242 is integrally formed with the scan wiring GL on the main surface 210a of the second TFT substrate 210. Like the scan wiring GL, the gate 242 is covered by a first insulating layer 272. A semiconductor layer 244 is disposed on the gate 242 in an island-like manner via the first insulating layer 272. In one example, the semiconductor layer 244 is formed of amorphous silicon. A source 246 branches from the signal wiring DL and is formed on the semiconductor layer 244. A drain 248 extends from the semiconductor layer 244 along the scan wiring GL. Figure 7 As shown, the drain 248 is connected to the baseline electrode 252 of each pixel electrode 250, described later, via a contact hole CH penetrating the third insulating layer 278, the organic interlayer film 276, and the second insulating layer 274. Similar to the signal wiring DL, the source 246 and drain 248 are formed of metals such as aluminum (Al) and molybdenum (Mo). Furthermore, as... Figure 6 As shown, semiconductor layer 244, source 246 and drain 248 on semiconductor layer 244 are covered by second insulating layer 274.

[0074] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the first insulating layer 272 covers the scan wiring GL and the gate 242 of the switching element 240. The second insulating layer 274 covers the semiconductor layer 244, the source 246 and drain 248 on the semiconductor layer 244 of the switching element 240, and the first insulating layer 272. The organic interlayer film 276 is formed on the second insulating layer 274 by photosensitive resin. The third insulating layer 278 covers the common electrode CE and the organic interlayer film 276. The first insulating layer 272, the second insulating layer 274, and the third insulating layer 278 are formed of silicon nitride (SiNx), silicon oxide (SiOx), etc.

[0075] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the pixel electrode 250 is formed on the third insulating layer 278. In one example, the pixel electrode 250 is formed of ITO. Figure 5 and Figure 8As shown, each pixel electrode 250 includes a baseline electrode 252 and a linear electrode 254.

[0076] The baseline electrode 252 is disposed on the scan wiring GL and bends along the scan wiring GL. Therefore, the baseline electrode 252 includes the same bend point P1 as the bend point P1 of the scan wiring GL.

[0077] Linear electrodes 254 branch from baseline electrode 252 and extend along the +Y or -Y direction. Each linear electrode 254 includes a first inclined portion 254a and a second inclined portion 254b. In the first inclined portion 254a, the long sides 255a and 255b of the linear electrode 254 are inclined at an acute angle clockwise relative to the +Y direction, and the first inclined portion 254a is inclined at an acute angle clockwise relative to the +Y direction. In the second inclined portion 254b, the long sides 255a and 255b of the linear electrode 254 are inclined at an acute angle counterclockwise relative to the +Y direction, and the second inclined portion 254b is inclined at an acute angle counterclockwise relative to the +Y direction. By repeating the first inclined portion 254a and the second inclined portion 254b, each linear electrode 254 extends along the +Y or -Y direction. The linear electrodes 254 are arranged parallel to each other at equal intervals along the X direction.

[0078] like Figure 8 As shown, the outline of each pixel electrode 250 is curved along the scan wiring GL and has an asymmetrical V-shape, which includes protrusions 256 and notches 258 on the +Y and -Y sides. As described later, the protrusions 256 and notches 258 are provided such that at the boundary 290 between adjacent main pixels 202 in the Y direction, the inclination direction of the boundary line 292 between adjacent main pixels 202 relative to the Y direction is the same as the inclination direction of the linear electrode 254 relative to the Y direction. Here, in this specification, "same inclination direction" means inclination at an acute angle in the same direction (clockwise or counterclockwise) relative to a predetermined first direction. For example, when both the boundary line 292 and the linear electrode 254 are inclination at an acute angle clockwise relative to the +Y direction, the boundary line 292 has the same inclination direction as the linear electrode 254. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the outline of the pixel electrode 250 is used as the shape of the main pixel 202.

[0079] The pattern of the pixel electrode 250 (the pattern of the line electrode 254) is divided into: Figure 8 Patterns A to D are shown, and a set of patterns A to D are arranged repeatedly along the X direction. Meanwhile, pixel electrodes 250 with the same pattern are arranged along the Y direction. Note that patterns A and C, as well as patterns B and D, have rotational symmetry about the X-axis.

[0080] In this embodiment, at the boundary 290 between adjacent main pixels 202 in the Y direction, the tilt direction of the boundary line 292 between adjacent main pixels 202 relative to the +Y direction (i.e., the initial orientation direction of the positive second liquid crystal 230) is the same as the tilt direction of the linear electrode 254 relative to the +Y direction. Next, referring to... Figure 9 ,by Figure 8 Taking part 280 as an example, the tilt direction of the boundary line 292 and the tilt direction of the linear electrode 254 will be described.

[0081] like Figure 9 As shown, when the linear electrode 254 at boundary 290 is a first inclined portion 254a that is inclined at an acute angle clockwise relative to the +Y direction, the boundary line 292 is inclined at an acute angle clockwise relative to the +Y direction in the same manner as the first inclined portion 254b. Furthermore, when the linear electrode 254 at boundary 290 is a second inclined portion 254b that is inclined at an acute angle counterclockwise relative to the +Y direction, due to the presence of the protrusion 256 and the notch 258, the boundary line 292 is inclined at an acute angle counterclockwise relative to the +Y direction in the same manner as the second inclined portion 254b. Similar to portion 280, at other portions of the pixel electrode 250, the inclination direction of the boundary line 292 relative to the +Y direction is the same as the inclination direction of the linear electrode 254 relative to the +Y direction. Note that the linear electrodes 254 are arranged parallel to each other along the X direction. Therefore, at the boundary 290 between adjacent main pixels 202 in the X direction, the tilt direction of the boundary line 292 between adjacent main pixels 202 in the X direction is the same as the tilt direction of the linear electrodes 254.

[0082] In this embodiment, the tilt direction of the boundary line 292 is the same as the tilt direction of the linear electrode 254. Furthermore, as... Figure 9 As shown, the tip 254c of each linear electrode 254 has a so-called transverse edge. The chamfer angle of the edge of the tip 254c of each linear electrode 254, that is, the end edge 255c of each linear electrode 254, is inclined at an acute angle clockwise or counterclockwise relative to the +Y direction, and the end edge 255c of each linear electrode 254 and the boundary line 292 are inclined in the same direction relative to the +Y direction. Therefore, as Figure 10As shown, an electric field (field direction E) is generated at boundary 290. This electric field causes the liquid crystal molecules 230M at the boundary 290 between adjacent main pixels 202 to rotate in the same direction as the liquid crystal molecules 230 within the main pixel 202 (e.g., clockwise relative to the +Y direction). Therefore, by rotating the liquid crystal molecules 230M within the main pixel 202 and the liquid crystal molecules 230M at the interface where they contact the end regions of boundary 290 in the same direction, the occurrence of misalignment lines can be suppressed, and by rotating the liquid crystal molecules 230M in the main region of boundary 290 in the same direction, the occurrence of dark lines can be suppressed. The occurrence of misalignment lines and dark lines can be suppressed, thereby improving the transmittance of the liquid crystal display panel 200.

[0083] Reference Figure 11 and Figure 12 The rotation of the liquid crystal molecules 230M and the transmittance of the liquid crystal display panel 200 are described in more detail. Figure 11 The initial orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules 230M within the main pixel 202 is shown, as well as the state in which the liquid crystal molecules 230M rotate due to the electric field generated by the linear electrode 254. Figure 11 The field direction E1 shown indicates the direction of the electric field generated by the linear electrode 254 within the main pixel 202. Figure 11 The angle θ1 shown indicates the angle by which the liquid crystal molecules 230M within the main pixel 202 rotate due to the electric field. Figure 12 The initial orientation state of liquid crystal molecules 230M at boundary 290 is shown, as well as the state in which liquid crystal molecules 230M rotate due to the electric field generated by the linear electrode 254. Figure 12 The field direction E2 shown indicates the direction of the electric field generated at boundary 290. The angle θ2 indicates the angle by which the liquid crystal molecule 230M at boundary 290 rotates due to the electric field.

[0084] Typically, when liquid crystal molecules are uniformly arranged between two vertical polarizing plates with polarization axes orthogonal to each other, the intensity of light transmitted through the vertical polarizing plates is represented by the following equation (1).

[0085] I = I0 × sin 2 (2×θ)×sin 2 (πΔnd / λ) (1)

[0086] Here, I represents the intensity of emitted light, I0 represents the intensity of incoming light, θ represents the angle formed between the polarization axis of the polarizing plate and the long axis of the liquid crystal, Δn represents the anisotropy of the refractive index of the liquid crystal molecules, d represents the thickness of the gap sealed by the liquid crystal, and λ represents the wavelength of light. According to equation (1), the intensity of emitted light is maximum when θ = 45°. Thus, the field direction E1 formed by the linear electrode 254 and the orientation direction of the second liquid crystal 230 in the main pixel 202 are set such that the intensity of emitted light (i.e., the transmittance of the liquid crystal display panel 200) is maximum when the liquid crystal molecules 230M rotate based on equation (1).

[0087] In this embodiment, the tilt direction of the boundary line 292 is the same as the tilt direction of the linear electrode 254, and the tilt direction of the boundary line 292 is also the same as the tilt direction of the end edge 255c of each linear electrode 254. Thus, as... Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, the direction of the electric field at boundary 290 (field direction E2) is close to the direction of the electric field within the main pixel 202 (field direction E1). Therefore, the liquid crystal molecules 230M at boundary 290 rotate continuously with the liquid crystal molecules 230 within the main pixel 202. Consequently, the transmittance of light transmitted through boundary 290 is close to the transmittance of light transmitted through the main pixel 202. Therefore, the decrease in the transmittance of light transmitted through boundary 290 can be suppressed, and the transmittance of the liquid crystal display panel 200 can be improved.

[0088] Meanwhile, for example, when the tilt direction of the boundary line 292 is different from the tilt direction of the linear electrode 254 (hereinafter referred to as Comparative Example 1), the liquid crystal molecules 230M at the boundary 290 between adjacent main pixels 202 and the liquid crystal molecules 2300M within the main pixel 202 can rotate in different directions. In Comparative Example 1, for example, as Figure 13 As shown, the liquid crystal molecules 230M at the boundary 290 between adjacent main pixels 202 rotate clockwise relative to the +Y direction, and the liquid crystal molecules 2300M within the main pixel 202 rotate counterclockwise relative to the +Y direction. As a result, misalignment lines are generated at the interface where the adjacent main pixels 202 contact the end region of the boundary 290 of Comparative Example 1, and the transmittance of the liquid crystal display panel with the configuration of Comparative Example 1 decreases.

[0089] As described above, the tilt direction of the boundary line 292, the tilt direction of the linear electrode 254, and the tilt direction of the end edge 255c of each of the linear electrodes 254 are the same. In this way, the rotation of liquid crystal molecules 230M between adjacent main pixels 202 can be controlled to suppress the occurrence of misaligned lines and dark lines, and to improve the transmittance of the liquid crystal display panel 200.

[0090] Next, the relationship between the main pixels 202 of the liquid crystal display panel 200 and the main pixels 102 of the color liquid crystal display panel 100 will be described. In this embodiment, the main pixels 202 of the liquid crystal display panel 200 have a shape that curves along the scan wiring GL. Furthermore, the main pixels 202 of the liquid crystal display panel 200 emit light to a plurality of sub-pixels 104 of the color liquid crystal display panel 100. Therefore, it is preferable that the display area 201 of the liquid crystal display panel 200 is wider than the display area 101 of the color liquid crystal display panel 100.

[0091] In addition, such as Figure 14 As shown, the bending point P1 of each scan line GL of the liquid crystal display panel 200 (i.e., the bending point of the baseline electrode 252) overlaps with the black matrix BM of the color liquid crystal display panel 100, which defines the main pixel 102 of the color liquid crystal display panel 100 and extends along the X direction. Furthermore, the V-shaped bending point P2 of each main pixel 202 of the liquid crystal display panel 200 also overlaps with the black matrix BM of the color liquid crystal display panel 100, which defines the main pixel 102 of the color liquid crystal display panel 100 and extends along the X direction. As a result, the color liquid crystal display panel 100 can efficiently utilize the light emitted from the liquid crystal display panel 200. Note that, for ease of understanding, in Figure 14 The black matrix BM of the color liquid crystal display panel 100 is shown in an exaggerated manner.

[0092] Backlight

[0093] like Figure 1 As shown, the backlight 300 is arranged on the rear side (-Z side) of the liquid crystal display panel 200. In one example, the backlight 300 is implemented as a direct backlight. The backlight 300 includes a white light-emitting diode (LED), a reflective sheet, a diffuser, etc. (none of which are shown in the figures).

[0094] Display Controller

[0095] The display controller 400 controls the display on the color LCD panel 100 and the LCD panel 200. For example... Figure 15 As shown, the display controller 400 includes an image data distributor 410, a first image signal generator 420, a second image brightness signal generator 430, and a second image signal generator 440.

[0096] Image data distributor 410 distributes input image data to first image signal generator 420 and second image brightness signal generator 430.

[0097] The first image signal generator 420 generates a color image to be displayed on the color liquid crystal display panel 100 based on the input image data allocated by the image data distributor 410. Specifically, the first grayscale converter 422 of the first image signal generator 420 performs grayscale conversion to convert the allocated input image data into color image data with brightness grayscale characteristics suitable for the color liquid crystal display panel 100. In one example, a lookup table in which a preset input / output relationship is used in the data conversion. The first image signal generator 420 sends a color image signal representing the generated color image to the first driving circuit 136 of the color liquid crystal display panel 100.

[0098] The second image luminance signal generator 430 generates a luminance signal based on the input image data allocated from the image data distributor 410. This luminance signal is used to generate a monochrome image to be displayed on the liquid crystal display panel 200. In one example, the second image luminance signal generator 430 calculates the luminance level of a main pixel 202 of the liquid crystal display panel 200 based on the average value, frequency value, minimum value, and maximum value of the sub-pixels 104 of the color liquid crystal display panel 100. Light emitted from a main pixel 202 of the liquid crystal display panel 200 enters the sub-pixels 104 of the color liquid crystal display panel 100. The calculated luminance level can be a grayscale value. The second image luminance signal generator 430 sends a luminance signal representing the calculated luminance level to the second image signal generator 440.

[0099] The second image signal generator 440 generates a monochrome image to be displayed on the liquid crystal display panel 200 based on the luminance signal sent from the second image luminance signal generator 430. In one example, the second image signal generator 440 generates a monochrome image that has undergone averaging and grayscale conversion. Specifically, in one example, the calculator 442 of the second image signal generator 440 uses a weighted average based on the distance from the target main pixel 202 to average the luminance level of the main pixels 202 located within a predetermined distance from the target main pixel 202. As a result, the second image signal generator 440 can generate a monochrome image with blurred edges. Furthermore, the second grayscale converter 444 of the second image signal generator 440 generates monochrome image data with luminance-grayscale characteristics suitable for the liquid crystal display panel 200. The configuration of the second grayscale converter 444 is the same as that of the first grayscale converter 422 of the first image signal generator 420.

[0100] The monochrome image signal sent to the liquid crystal display panel 200 is delayed relative to the color image signal sent to the color liquid crystal display panel 100 due to the brightness level calculation and averaging processes performed by the second image brightness signal generator 430. Therefore, the display controller 400 includes a synchronization circuit (not shown) for synchronously outputting the monochrome image signal and the color image signal. Because of this synchronization circuit, a monochrome image corresponding to the color image of the color liquid crystal display panel 100 is displayed on the liquid crystal display panel 200; thus, an appropriate color image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 10.

[0101] The display controller 400 is configured with a central processing unit (CPU), memory, etc. In one example, the CPU executes a program stored in memory to implement the functions of the display controller 400.

[0102] As described above, in the liquid crystal display panel 200, the tilt direction of the boundary line 292, the tilt direction of the linear electrode 254, and the tilt direction of the end edge 255c of each of the linear electrodes 254 are the same. This allows control over the rotation of liquid crystal molecules 230M between adjacent main pixels 202, suppressing the appearance of misaligned lines and also suppressing the appearance of dark lines. Suppressing the appearance of misaligned lines and dark lines improves the transmittance of the liquid crystal display panel 200. Furthermore, the increased transmittance of the liquid crystal display panel 200 also improves the transmittance of the liquid crystal display device 10.

[0103] Example 2

[0104] In Embodiment 1, the second liquid crystal 230 of the liquid crystal display panel 200 is implemented as a non-nematic liquid crystal. However, it is possible for the second liquid crystal 230 of the liquid crystal display panel 200 to be configured as a negative (negative dielectric anisotropy) nematic liquid crystal. Here, the initial orientation direction of the second liquid crystal 230 and the rotation of the second liquid crystal 230 at the boundary 290 are described. Other configurations in this embodiment are the same as those described in Embodiment 1.

[0105] The second liquid crystal 230, which is a negative nematic liquid crystal, is initially oriented along the +X direction. In this embodiment, the +Y direction, which is perpendicular to the initial orientation direction of the negative second liquid crystal 230, i.e., the +X direction, corresponds to a predetermined first direction.

[0106] Similar to Embodiment 1, in this embodiment, at the boundary 290 between adjacent main pixels 202 in the Y direction, the tilt direction of the boundary line 292 between adjacent main pixels 202 relative to the +Y direction (i.e., the direction perpendicular to the initial orientation direction of the negative second liquid crystal 230) is the same as the tilt direction of the linear electrode 254 relative to +Y. Furthermore, the tilt direction of the end edge 255c of each linear electrode 254 relative to the +Y direction is the same as the tilt direction of the boundary line 292 relative to +Y. Therefore, as... Figure 16 As shown, an electric field (field direction E) is generated at boundary 290. This electric field causes the liquid crystal molecules 230M at the boundary 290 between adjacent main pixels 202 to rotate in the same direction as the liquid crystal molecules 230 within the main pixel 202 (e.g., clockwise relative to the +Y direction). Therefore, as in Embodiment 1, the rotation of the liquid crystal molecules 230M between adjacent main pixels 202 can be controlled to suppress the occurrence of misaligned lines, as well as dark lines, and the transmittance of the liquid crystal display panel 200 can be improved.

[0107] Figure 17 The initial orientation state of the liquid crystal molecules 230M within the main pixel 202 is shown, as well as the state in which the liquid crystal molecules 230M rotate due to the electric field generated by the linear electrode 254. Figure 17 The field direction E3 indicated indicates the direction of the electric field generated by the linear electrode 254 within the main pixel 202. The angle θ3 indicates the angle by which the liquid crystal molecules 230M within the main pixel 202 rotate due to the electric field. Figure 18 The initial orientation state of liquid crystal molecules 230M at boundary 290 is shown, as well as the state in which liquid crystal molecules 230M rotate due to the electric field generated by the linear electrode 254. Figure 18 The field direction E4 shown indicates the direction of the electric field generated at boundary 290. The angle θ4 indicates the angle by which the liquid crystal molecule 230M at boundary 290 rotates due to the electric field.

[0108] In this embodiment, similarly, the tilt direction of the boundary line 292 is the same as the tilt direction of the linear electrode 254, and the tilt direction of the boundary line 292 is also the same as the tilt direction of the end edge 255c of each linear electrode 254. Therefore, as Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown, the electric field direction (field direction E4) at boundary 290 is close to the electric field direction (field direction E3) within the main pixel 202, and the liquid crystal molecules 230M at boundary 290 rotate continuously together with the liquid crystal molecules 230 within the main pixel 202. Therefore, in this embodiment, as in Embodiment 1, the reduction in the transmittance of light transmitted through boundary 290 can be suppressed, and the transmittance of the liquid crystal display panel 200 can be improved.

[0109] Meanwhile, when the tilt direction of the boundary line 292 is different from the tilt direction of the linear electrode 254 (hereinafter referred to as Comparative Example 2), the liquid crystal molecules 230M at the boundary 290 between adjacent main pixels 202 and the liquid crystal molecules 2300M within the main pixel 202 can rotate in different directions. In Comparative Example 2, for example, as... Figure 19As shown, the liquid crystal molecules 230M at the boundary 290 between adjacent main pixels 202 rotate clockwise relative to the +Y direction, and the liquid crystal molecules 2300M within the main pixel 202 rotate counterclockwise relative to the +Y direction. As a result, misalignment lines are generated at the interface where adjacent main pixels 202 contact the end region of the boundary 290 of Comparative Example 2, and the transmittance of the liquid crystal display panel with the configuration of Comparative Example 2 decreases.

[0110] As described above, even when using the negative second liquid crystal 230, the rotation of liquid crystal molecules 230M between adjacent main pixels 202 can be controlled to suppress the occurrence of misaligned lines, and the occurrence of dark lines can also be suppressed, and the transmittance of the liquid crystal display panel 200 can be improved.

[0111] Modify Example

[0112] Embodiments have been described, but various modifications may be made to this disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope thereof.

[0113] For example, in one embodiment, the color liquid crystal display panel 100 is a horizontal electric field type liquid crystal display panel using positive liquid crystal, but it is also possible for the color liquid crystal display panel 100 to be configured as a vertical alignment (VA) mode, a twisted nematic (TN) mode, or the like. Furthermore, the display area 101 of the color liquid crystal display panel 100 and the display area 201 of the liquid crystal display panel 200 are not limited to rectangular shapes, and may have non-rectangular shapes.

[0114] It is possible for the liquid crystal display panel 200 to include a polarizing plate on the main surface 220b (polarizing plate on the light-emitting side) of the second opposing substrate 220 and to independently display monochrome images. Furthermore, it is possible for the liquid crystal display panel 200 to include a color filter and a black matrix on the main surface 220a of the second opposing substrate 220 and to display color images.

[0115] In Embodiment 1, the initial orientation direction of the second liquid crystal 230 (positive liquid crystal) is the +Y direction, but it is possible to configure the initial orientation of the second liquid crystal (positive liquid crystal) to be the -Y direction. In Embodiment 2, the initial orientation direction of the second liquid crystal 230 (negative liquid crystal) is the +X direction, but it is possible to configure the initial orientation of the second liquid crystal (negative liquid crystal) to be the -X direction.

[0116] In one embodiment, the linear electrode 254 of the liquid crystal display panel 200 is formed by a first inclined portion 254a and a second inclined portion 254b. The first inclined portion 254a is inclined at an acute angle clockwise relative to the +Y direction, and the second inclined portion 254b is inclined at an acute angle counterclockwise relative to the +Y direction. However, it is sufficient for the linear electrode 254 to be inclined relative to a predetermined first direction (+Y direction). For example, the linear electrode 254 may be formed only by the first inclined portion 254a.

[0117] The pattern of the outline of the main pixel 202 of the liquid crystal display panel 200 (the pattern of the linear electrode 254) is not limited to patterns A to D. As long as the tilt direction of the boundary line 292 between adjacent main pixels 202 with respect to the +Y direction (a predetermined first direction) is the same as the tilt direction of the linear electrode 254 with respect to the +Y direction, the pattern of the outline of the main pixel 202 (the pattern of the linear electrode 254) can be set as needed.

[0118] In Embodiment 1, the end edge 255c of each linear electrode 254 has a straight shape. However, at the boundary 290, it is sufficient for the end edge 255c of each linear electrode 254 to be inclined in the same direction as the boundary line 292 and the linear electrode 254, and, as Figure 20 As shown, it is possible for the end edge 255b to have a curved shape. When the end edge 255c of each linear electrode 254 has a curved shape, for example, the tangent 294 of the end edge 255b is inclined in the same direction as the boundary line 292 and the linear electrode 254 with respect to the +Y direction. Furthermore, it is possible for the tip 254c of each linear electrode 254 to be rounded.

[0119] Similarly, in Embodiment 2, it is sufficient for the end edge 255c of each linear electrode 254 to be inclined in the same direction as the boundary line 292 and the linear electrode 254, and it is possible for the end edge 255b to have a curved shape. Furthermore, it is possible for the tip 254c of each linear electrode 254 to be rounded.

[0120] like Figure 21 As shown, preferably, the tilt angle θ5 of the end edge 255c of each linear electrode 254 relative to a predetermined first direction is greater than the tilt angle θ6 of the boundary line 292 relative to the predetermined first direction. Therefore, the direction of the electric field at the boundary 290 (field direction E6) is close to the direction of the electric field within the main pixel 202 (field direction E5), resulting in improved transmittance of the liquid crystal display panel 200. Note that... Figure 21 The second liquid crystal 230, which is a positive liquid crystal, is shown, but the same applies to the case where the second liquid crystal 220 is a negative liquid crystal.

[0121] In an embodiment, such as Figure 10As shown, at boundary 290, the extension line ExL of the long side 255a of the linear electrode 254 in one of the main pixels 202 matches the extension line ExL of the long side 255a of the linear electrode 254 in the other main pixel 202. Furthermore, the extension line ExL of the long side 255b of the linear electrode 254 in one of the main pixels 202 matches the extension line ExL of the long side 255b of the linear electrode 254 in the other main pixel 202. However, as... Figure 22 As shown, at boundary 290, it is possible for the extension lines ExL of the long side 255a of the linear electrode 254 in one of the main pixels 202 and the extension lines ExL of the long side 255a of the linear electrode 254 in the other main pixel 202 to be offset in a direction perpendicular to a predetermined first direction (+Y direction) (X direction). One possible configuration is that at boundary 290, the extension lines ExL of the long side 255b of the linear electrode 254 in one of the main pixels 202 and the extension lines ExL of the long side 255b of the linear electrode 254 in the other main pixel 202 are offset in a direction perpendicular to the predetermined first direction. Therefore, the direction of the electric field at boundary 290 (field direction E8) is close to the direction of the electric field within the main pixel 202 (field direction E7), resulting in improved transmittance of the liquid crystal display panel 200. Note that... Figure 22 The second liquid crystal 230, which is a positive liquid crystal, is shown, but the same applies to the case where the second liquid crystal 220 is a negative liquid crystal.

[0122] In this embodiment, the linear electrodes 254 of the liquid crystal display panel 200 are arranged at equal intervals along the X direction. At the boundary 290 between adjacent main pixels 202, when the linear electrode 254 of one main pixel 202 is parallel to the linear electrode 254 of the other main pixel 202 (e.g. Figure 23 As shown, preferably, the distance L1 between the linear electrode 254 of one of the main pixels 202 and the linear electrode 254 of the other main pixel 202 is greater than the distance L2 between the linear electrodes 254 within each main pixel 202. Therefore, when the liquid crystal display panel 200 is driven by inversion driving, the appearance of dark lines between the linear electrodes 254 at the boundary 290, caused by applying excessive voltage to the second liquid crystal 230 between the linear electrodes 254 at the boundary 290, can be suppressed.

[0123] For illustrative purposes, some exemplary embodiments have been described above. Although specific embodiments have been given in the preceding discussion, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the specification and drawings are to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive. Consequently, this detailed description should not be construed as limiting, and the scope of the invention is defined only by the appended claims together with the full scope of their equivalents.

Claims

1. A liquid crystal display panel, comprising: Multiple pixels, each pixel including a pixel electrode disposed above the main surface of the substrate, a common electrode disposed above the main surface of the substrate, and liquid crystal, wherein the liquid crystal rotates in a plane of the main surface of the substrate due to a voltage applied by the pixel electrode and the common electrode, wherein... The pixel electrode includes a baseline electrode and linear electrodes branching from the baseline electrode. The linear electrodes extend across the baseline electrode to both sides of the baseline electrode, and one end of each linear electrode is not connected to the baseline electrode. When the initial orientation direction of a liquid crystal with positive dielectric anisotropy or the direction perpendicular to the initial orientation direction of a liquid crystal with negative dielectric anisotropy is defined as a predetermined first direction... At the boundary between adjacent pixels in the plurality of pixels, the boundary line between the adjacent pixels, the linear electrode, and the end edge of each linear electrode at the end not connected to the baseline electrode are inclined relative to the predetermined first direction, and the inclination directions of the boundary line, the linear electrode, and the end edge relative to the predetermined first direction are the same. Within the boundary, the inclination angle of the end edge relative to the predetermined first direction is greater than the inclination angle of the boundary line relative to the predetermined first direction.

2. The liquid crystal display panel according to claim 1, wherein the end edge has a curved shape.

3. The liquid crystal display panel according to claim 1, wherein at the boundary between the adjacent pixels, the extension line of the long side of the linear electrode in one of the pixels and the extension line of the long side of the linear electrode in the other of the pixels are offset in a direction perpendicular to the predetermined first direction.

4. The liquid crystal display panel according to claim 1, further comprising: The scan wiring extends in a Z-shape along a predetermined second direction, wherein The shape of the pixel is curved along the scan wire.

5. The liquid crystal display panel according to claim 1, wherein at the boundary between adjacent pixels, when the linear electrode of one of the pixels and the linear electrode of the other of the pixels are parallel, the spacing between the linear electrodes of one of the pixels and the linear electrode of the other of the pixels is wider than the spacing between the linear electrodes within the pixel.

6. A liquid crystal display device, comprising: The liquid crystal display panel according to any one of claims 1 to 5 displays a monochrome image; and A color LCD display panel that displays color images.

7. The liquid crystal display device according to claim 6, wherein each of the plurality of pixels of the liquid crystal display panel emits light to the plurality of pixels of the color liquid crystal display panel.

Images