Display device

Abstract

The present invention provides a display device, which can improve the quality of display in a bright external environment with little power consumption and in an external environment where sufficient brightness is not ensured. The display device includes an array substrate, an opposing substrate, and a backlight source. The array substrate includes a plurality of pixels arranged in a matrix in a first direction and a second direction, each pixel including a reflective electrode and a translucent conductive layer at least partially overlapping with the reflective electrode when observed from a third direction orthogonal to the first direction and the second direction. The opposing substrate includes a common electrode overlapping with the reflective electrode when observed from a third direction, and a color filter including a plurality of colors. Color filters of different colors are arranged adjacent to each other in the first direction, and color filters of the same color extend in the second direction. A portion of the translucent conductive layer extends between two adjacent reflective electrode layers in the second direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a display device. Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 listed below describes a display device that allows easy viewing of a screen regardless of whether the external environment is bright or not, and that consumes little power.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 9-212140 Summary of the invention

[0006] In the display device of Patent Document 1, there is a growing demand for improved properties of transmissive display in addition to reflective display.

[0007] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a display device that consumes little power in a bright external environment and can improve the quality of display in an external environment where sufficient brightness is not ensured.

[0008] The display device disclosed in the present invention comprises: an array substrate, which includes a plurality of pixels arranged in a matrix in a first direction and a second direction, each pixel including a reflective electrode layer and a translucent conductive layer at least a portion of which overlaps with the reflective electrode layer when viewed from a third direction orthogonal to the first direction and the second direction; an opposing substrate, which includes a common electrode overlapping with the reflective electrode layer when viewed from the third direction, and a color filter including a plurality of colors; and a backlight source opposed to the opposing substrate via the array substrate, wherein color filters of different colors among the color filters are adjacently arranged in the first direction, color filters of the same color extend in the second direction, and a portion of the translucent conductive layer extends between two adjacent reflective electrode layers in the second direction. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing a configuration example of a display device according to the first embodiment.

[0010] Figure 2 It is a diagram showing a configuration example of a pixel circuit according to the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 3 It is a plan view showing a pixel according to the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Cross-sectional view along line IV-IV'.

[0013] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 Cross-sectional view along line V-V'.

[0014] Figure 6 is a plan view showing a pixel of a comparative example.

[0015] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Cross-sectional view along line VII-VII'.

[0016] Figure 8 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII'.

[0017] Fig. 9 yes Figure 3 Cross-sectional view along line IX-IX'.

[0018] Fig.10 This is a cross-sectional view of a pixel according to the second embodiment.

[0019] Fig.11 This is another cross-sectional view of the pixel according to the second embodiment.

[0020] Fig.12 It is a plan view showing a pixel according to the third embodiment.

[0021] Fig.13 yes Fig.12 A cross-sectional view taken along line XIII-XIII'.

[0022] Fig.14 It is a cross-sectional view of a modified example of the third embodiment.

[0023] Fig.15 It is a plan view showing a pixel according to the fourth embodiment.

[0024] Fig.16 yes Fig.15 Cross-sectional view along line XVI-XVI'.

[0025] Fig.17 yes Fig.15 Cross-sectional view along line XVII-XVII'.

[0026] Fig.18 yes Fig.15 A cross-sectional view taken along line XVIII-XVIII'.

[0027] Fig.19 It is a plan view showing a pixel according to the fifth embodiment.

[0028] Fig. 20 yes Fig.19 Cross-sectional view of line XX-XX'.

[0029] Fig.21 It is a plan view showing a pixel according to a modified example of the fifth embodiment.

[0030] Fig. 22 yes Fig.21 A cross-sectional view along line XXII-XXII'.

[0031] Fig.23 This is a circuit diagram showing an example of a circuit configuration of a pixel of the MIP method according to the sixth embodiment.

[0032] Fig.24 This is a timing chart for explaining an example of pixel operation according to the sixth embodiment.

[0033] The reference numerals are described as follows:

[0034] 1 Display device

[0035] 10 Array substrate

[0036] 11.26 Polarizer

[0037] 12, 25 1 / 2 wavelength plate

[0038] 13, 24 1 / 4 wavelength plate

[0039] 14 substrate

[0040] 15. Laminated structure

[0041] 20 Counter substrate

[0042] 21 Common Electrode

[0043] 22, 122a, 122b, 122c color filters

[0044] 23 substrate

[0045] 30 Liquid crystal layer

[0046] 40 Backlight

[0047] 50, 50A, 50B, 50C, 50D, 50E, 50F, 50a pixels

[0048] 86 Relay Wiring

[0049] 87, 87A 4th insulation layer

[0050] 111 Translucent conductive layer

[0051] 112 reflective electrode layer

[0052] 131 liquid crystal molecules

[0053] 501, 502, 503, 511, 512, 513, 521, 522, 523 reflective electrodes

[0054] A11, A13, A15 reflective display area

[0055] A12, A14, A31, A32, A33 Transmissive display area

[0056] Overlapping area of ​​A21 and A22

[0057] BL backlight DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] With reference to the accompanying drawings, the mode (implementation mode) for implementing the present disclosure is described in detail. In addition, the present disclosure is not limited by the contents described in the following implementation modes. In addition, the constituent elements described below include constituent elements that can be easily thought of by those skilled in the art, and substantially the same constituent elements. Moreover, the constituent elements described below can be appropriately combined. In addition, the present disclosure is only an example, and appropriate changes that maintain the gist of the invention that are easily thought of by those skilled in the art are of course included in the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, in order to make the description clearer, the width, thickness, shape, etc. of each part of the accompanying drawings are sometimes schematically shown compared to the actual form, but this is only an example and does not limit the interpretation of the present disclosure. In addition, in this specification and each figure, the same figure mark is sometimes used for the same element as the element described in the accompanying drawings that have already appeared, and the detailed description is appropriately omitted.

[0059] [First embodiment]

[0060] use Figure 1 A configuration example of the display device according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 1 This is a diagram showing a configuration example of a display device according to the first embodiment.

[0061] like Figure 1 As shown, the display device 1 of the first embodiment includes an array substrate 10, an opposing substrate 20, a liquid crystal layer 30, and a backlight 40. The array substrate 10 and the opposing substrate 20 are arranged opposite to each other at a predetermined interval. The liquid crystal layer 30 is arranged in the interval between the array substrate 10 and the opposing substrate 20. The backlight 40 is configured to irradiate light relative to the array substrate 10.

[0062] The array substrate 10 includes a first substrate 14, a stacked structure 15, and pixels 50 divided by pixel electrodes. The array substrate 10 overlaps with a polarizer 11, a 1 / 2 wavelength plate 12, and a 1 / 4 wavelength plate 13. One or all of the polarizer 11, the 1 / 2 wavelength plate 12, and the 1 / 4 wavelength plate 13 may be omitted.

[0063] The display device 1 includes a plurality of signal lines (not shown) and a plurality of scanning lines on a first substrate 14. The plurality of signal lines and the plurality of scanning lines are formed to intersect each other. Pixels (hereinafter, sometimes simply described as "pixels") 50 are two-dimensionally arranged in a matrix at the locations where the plurality of signal lines intersect the plurality of scanning lines. On the first substrate 14, a switching element such as a TFT (Thin Film Transistor) and a circuit element such as a capacitor element (not shown) are formed for each pixel 50. The array substrate 10 is sometimes referred to as a TFT substrate because circuit elements including TFTs are formed thereon.

[0064] The plurality of signal lines formed on the first substrate 14 are wirings for transmitting signals (e.g., display signals, image signals, etc.) for driving the pixels 50. The plurality of signal lines are arranged in a matrix with respect to the pixels 50 and have a direction along the arrangement direction of the pixels (i.e., the column direction, Figure 1 A wiring structure extending in the Y direction).

[0065] The plurality of scanning lines formed on the first substrate 14 are wirings for transmitting signals (e.g., scanning signals) for selecting pixels 50 in units of rows. The plurality of scanning lines are arranged in a matrix with respect to the pixels 50 and have a plurality of scanning lines arranged in a direction (i.e., row direction, Figure 1 The X direction and the Y direction are orthogonal to each other.

[0066] The stacked structure 15 includes circuit elements, signal lines, scanning lines, and an insulating layer formed on the first substrate 14 .

[0067] The counter substrate 20 includes a common electrode 21, a color filter 22, and a second substrate 23. The counter substrate 20 is overlapped with a quarter wavelength plate 24, a half wavelength plate 25, and a polarizing plate 26.

[0068] The common electrode 21 is a light-transmitting electrode formed of ITO (Indium Tin Oxide) or the like.

[0069] The color filter 22 is configured such that stripe-shaped R (red), G (green), and B (blue) filters extending in the column direction (Y direction) are repeatedly arranged at the same pitch as the pitch of the pixels 50 in the row direction (X direction).

[0070] The array substrate 10 , the counter substrate 20 , and the liquid crystal layer 30 constitute a liquid crystal display panel (display device 1 ). In the display device 1 , the upper surface (front surface) of the counter substrate 20 serves as a display surface.

[0071] The backlight source 40 is an illumination unit that irradiates light from the back side of the liquid crystal display panel (display device 1), that is, the side opposite to the liquid crystal layer 30 side of the array substrate 10. The backlight source 40 can use, for example, a light source such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode), a light guide plate, a prism sheet, a diffusion sheet, and other well-known components, but is not limited to these.

[0072] use Figure 2 A configuration example of a pixel circuit according to an embodiment will be described. Figure 2 It is a diagram showing a configuration example of a pixel circuit according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 The X direction and Y direction shown represent Figure 1 The row direction and the column direction of the display device 1 are shown.

[0073] like Figure 2 As shown, the pixel circuit 2 includes a pixel 50 , a plurality of signal lines 61 ( 611 , 612 , 613 , . . . ), a plurality of scanning lines 62 ( 621 , 622 , 623 , . . . ), a signal output circuit 70 , and a scanning circuit 71 .

[0074] The plurality of signal lines 61 are arranged in the X direction. The plurality of scanning lines 62 are arranged in the Y direction. The plurality of signal lines 61 and the plurality of scanning lines 62 are arranged to intersect each other. The pixel 50 is arranged at the intersection of the signal line 61 and the scanning line 62. The pixel 50, the plurality of signal lines 61, and the plurality of scanning lines 62 are formed in Figure 1 The surface of the first substrate 14 of the array substrate 10 is shown.

[0075] The signal output circuit 70 is electrically connected to one ends of a plurality of signal lines 61. Specifically, the signal lines 61 corresponding to the output ends of the signal output circuit 70 are electrically connected.

[0076] The scanning circuit 71 is electrically connected to one ends of the plurality of scanning lines 62. Specifically, the scanning lines 62 corresponding to the output ends of the scanning circuit 71 are electrically connected.

[0077] The pixel 50 includes, for example, a pixel transistor 51, a liquid crystal capacitor 52, and a holding capacitor 53. In addition, hereinafter, a pixel represents a sub-pixel constituting a unit pixel displaying so-called RGB, and one of an R sub-pixel displaying red, a G sub-pixel displaying green, and a B sub-pixel displaying blue is shown. Of course, as a unit pixel, not only a configuration having RGB sub-pixels as sub-pixels may be adopted, but also a configuration having sub-pixels of other colors such as W (white) or Y (yellow) in addition to RGB, or a configuration omitting a sub-pixel of RGB may be adopted.

[0078] The pixel transistor 51 is a thin film transistor such as a TFT. The gate electrode of the pixel transistor 51 is electrically connected to the scanning line 62. The source electrode of the pixel transistor 51 is electrically connected to the signal line 61. The drain electrode of the pixel transistor 51 is electrically connected to one end of the liquid crystal capacitor 52.

[0079] The liquid crystal capacitor 52 is a capacitance component of a liquid crystal material generated between the pixel electrode and the common electrode 21. One end of the liquid crystal capacitor 52 is electrically connected to the pixel transistor 51. The other end of the liquid crystal capacitor 52 is supplied with a common potential VCOM.

[0080] One electrode of the storage capacitor 53 is electrically connected to one end of the liquid crystal capacitor 52 . The other electrode of the storage capacitor 53 is electrically connected to the other end of the liquid crystal capacitor 52 .

[0081] The signal output circuit 70 outputs a video signal for driving the pixel 50 for each of the plurality of signal lines 61. The plurality of signal lines 61 are wirings for transmitting the video signal to the pixel 50 for each pixel column.

[0082] The scanning circuit 71 outputs a scanning signal for selecting the pixels 50 in row units with respect to each of the plurality of scanning lines 62. The plurality of scanning lines 62 are wirings for transmitting an operation signal to the pixels 50 for each pixel row, respectively.

[0083] use Figure 3 The pixel according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 3 1 is a plan view showing a pixel of the first embodiment. In the reflective display area A11, reflective electrodes 501, 502, and 503 are formed as pixel electrodes for each pixel 50. In the reflective display area A13, reflective electrodes 511, 512, and 513 are formed as pixel electrodes for each pixel 50. In the reflective display area A15, reflective electrodes 521, 522, and 523 are formed as pixel electrodes for each pixel 50. The reflective electrodes 501, 502, 503, 511, 512, 513, 521, 522, and 523 reflect external light that is incident through the opposing substrate 20 as reflected light toward the opposing substrate 20. In the reflective display area, an image is displayed using the reflected light reflected by the reflective electrodes 501, 502, 503, 511, 512, 513, 521, 522, and 523. In addition, the reflective display areas A11 and A15 are sub-pixel areas adjacent to the reflective display area as one sub-pixel area, and have the same width as the reflective display area A13, but are Figure 3 In the figure, a portion close to the reflective display area is shown, and the remaining portion is omitted.

[0084] The light emitted from the backlight 40 to the array substrate 10 is transmitted through the transmissive display area A12 and the transmissive display area A14. In an external environment where sufficient brightness is not ensured, the light from the backlight 40 transmitted through the transmissive display area A12 and the transmissive display area A14 is effectively used.

[0085] like Figure 3 As shown, the reflective electrodes 501, 502, 503, 511, 512, 513, 521, 522, and 523 include a light-transmitting conductive layer 111 and a reflective electrode layer 112, respectively. Figure 3 In the example shown, for easy understanding of the description, the configuration other than the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 and the reflective electrode layer 112 is omitted.

[0086] The light-transmitting conductive layer 111 is a light-transmitting electrode formed of ITO or the like. The reflective electrode layer 112 is an electrode formed of a metal film such as Ag (silver) that reflects incident light from the outside.

[0087] exist Figure 3 In the figure, region A1, region A2, and region A3 are respectively regions covered by color filters of different colors extending in the Y direction. Region A1 is, for example, a region covered by a red color filter. Region A2 is, for example, a region covered by a green color filter. Region A3 is, for example, a region covered by a blue color filter.

[0088] exist Figure 3In the embodiment, region A4, region A5, and region A6 are respectively the configuration regions of the reflective electrode layer 112 arranged in the Y direction. That is, in the present embodiment, the pixel has three pixel electrodes arranged in the Y direction. By changing the number of the reflective electrode layers 112 that are driven simultaneously among the three reflective electrode layers 112 arranged in the Y direction, the display area used for display is changed, thereby showing brightness (shade, grayscale). The method of changing the display area in this way and thus changing the brightness is called area brightness. In the present embodiment, region A4 and region A6 are electrically connected together using the relay wiring 86, so these regions are lit and extinguished at the same time. The reflective electrode layers 112 located in these regions A4 and A6 are used for display on the high brightness side in the pixel, so these regions constitute the MSB (Most Significant Bit: Most Significant Bit) region. Region A5 located between regions A4 and A6 is lit and extinguished separately. The reflective electrode layer 112 located in area A5 is used for display on the low brightness side in the pixel, and is therefore an LSB (Least Significant Bit) area. In addition, by lighting up these MSB area and LSB area at the same time, the maximum brightness of the sub-pixel is formed. In the following, when only the MSB area is lit, and when only the LSB area is lit, the brightness decreases in sequence, and both the MSB area and the LSB area are extinguished, so that the brightness of the sub-pixel becomes 0. In addition, the relay wiring 86 and the reflective electrode layer 112 appear to overlap, but there is an insulating layer between the relay wiring 86 and the reflective electrode layer 112, and the relay wiring 86 does not interfere with the reflective electrode layer 112.

[0089] exist Figure 3 In the embodiment, the reflective display area A11, the reflective display area A13, and the reflective display area A15 are areas that display images by using the incident light from the observer side and the light reflected by the reflective electrode layer 112 in a bright external environment. These reflective display areas use ambient light, so they have sufficient brightness when used outdoors during the day, but the brightness will be slightly lower in a slightly dim external environment. In this case, by lighting the backlight source, the light of the backlight source 40 is transmitted through the transmissive display area A12 and the transmissive display area A14, so that the areas can also be used for display, and the brightness of the display area can be suppressed from being reduced. In this way, the transmissive display area A12 and the transmissive display area A14 are areas that use the transmitted light from the backlight source to assist the display in the reflective display area.

[0090] exist Figure 3 In the illustrated example, the contact hole H1 , the contact hole H3 , and the contact hole H5 electrically connect the reflective electrode layer 112 and the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 , which overlap each other in the Z direction.

[0091] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The contact hole H4 connects the relay wiring 86 and Figure 4 The drain electrode 82d of the pixel transistor 51 is shown to be electrically connected.

[0092] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 The contact hole H3 connects the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 with the Figure 5 The drain electrode 82d of the pixel transistor 51 is shown to be electrically connected.

[0093] like Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , the stacked structure 15 includes a pixel transistor 51, a first insulating layer 81, a second insulating layer 83, a third insulating layer 84, a relay wiring 86, a fourth insulating layer 87, and a light-transmitting conductive layer 111. A reflective electrode layer 112 and an alignment film AL1 are stacked on the stacked structure 15. The alignment film AL1 is subjected to a rubbing treatment to impart liquid crystal alignment. In addition, there are cases where the alignment film AL1 is subjected to a photo-alignment treatment or a case where neither the rubbing treatment nor the photo-alignment treatment is performed.

[0094] The first substrate 14 is formed of, for example, a glass substrate. The first substrate 14 is not limited to a glass substrate, and may be formed of any material having light transmissivity.

[0095] like Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 As shown, pixel transistors 51 are respectively formed on the first substrate 14 . Figure 4 The pixel transistor 51 shown drives the reflective electrode layer 112 and the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 in the MSB region. Figure 5 The pixel transistor 51 shown drives the reflective electrode layer 112 and the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 in the LSB region.

[0096] Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 The pixel transistor 51 shown is a switching element that switches on and off the supply of power to the pixel electrode (supply of pixel signals). The pixel transistor 51 includes a gate electrode 82a and a semiconductor layer 82b. The gate electrode 82a is formed on the first substrate 14. The semiconductor layer 82b is formed to cover the gate electrode 82a. The semiconductor layer 82b has a channel region in the center. Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 The pixel transistor 51 shown has a so-called bottom gate structure in which the gate electrode 82 a is provided below the semiconductor layer 82 b , but may also have a top gate structure in which the gate electrode 82 a is provided above the semiconductor layer 82 b .

[0097] Figure 4 as well as Figure 5The second insulating layer 83 shown is formed to cover the first substrate 14 and the pixel transistor 51. The source electrode 82c is formed on the second insulating layer 83. The drain electrode 82d is formed on the second insulating layer 83. The source electrode 82c is electrically connected to the left end of the semiconductor layer 82b. The drain electrode 82d is electrically connected to the right end of the semiconductor layer 82b.

[0098] Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 The third insulating layer 84 shown is formed to cover the source electrode 82c and the drain electrode 82d on the second insulating layer 83. The third insulating layer 84 is a planarizing layer for planarizing the unevenness caused by the pixel transistor 51, the source electrode 82c, the drain electrode 82d, etc., and is, for example, an organic film of acrylic resin.

[0099] Figure 4 The contact hole H4 shown is formed in the third insulating layer 84. The contact hole H4 is formed, for example, above the drain electrode 82d.

[0100] Figure 5 The contact hole H3 shown is formed in the third insulating layer 84. The contact hole H3 is formed, for example, above the drain electrode 82d.

[0101] Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 The relay wiring 86 shown is formed on the third insulating layer 84. The relay wiring 86 is formed by forming a conductive thin film such as ITO on the surface of the third insulating layer 84 and forming a desired circuit pattern by photolithography or the like. Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 The relay wiring 86 shown is Figure 5 The light-transmitting conductive layer 111 shown is the same layer. The light-transmitting conductive layer 111 is made of the same material as the relay wiring 86, and the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 and the relay wiring 86 can be formed at the same time, so the process can be shortened.

[0102] Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 The fourth insulating layer 87 shown is formed on the third insulating layer 84 to cover the relay wiring 86 and the translucent conductive layer 111. The fourth insulating layer 87 is a planarizing layer for planarizing the surface irregularities caused by the contact holes H3, H4 and the relay wiring 86, and is, for example, an organic film of acrylic resin.

[0103] The reflective electrode layer 112 is formed on the fourth insulating layer 87. The reflective electrode layer 112 is formed by, for example, forming a highly reflective conductive thin film such as Ag (silver) or Al (aluminum) on the surface of the fourth insulating layer 87 and forming a desired circuit pattern by photolithography or the like. The reflective electrode layer 112 becomes the reflective electrodes 501, 502, 503, 511, 512, 513, 521, 522, 523 (see Figure 3 ).

[0104] like Figure 1 , Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As shown, the pixel transistor 51, the relay wiring 86, the light-transmitting conductive layer 111, and the reflective electrode layer 112 are electrically connected via the contact hole H4 and the contact hole H1, or the contact hole H4 and the contact hole H5.

[0105] like Figure 3 as well as Figure 5 As shown, the pixel transistor 51 , the relay wiring 86 , the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 , and the reflective electrode layer 112 are electrically connected together via the contact hole H2 and the contact hole H3 .

[0106] like Figure 3 As shown, in the first embodiment, the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 and the reflective electrode layer 112 are formed in the reflective display region A11, the reflective display region A13, and the reflective display region A15. In addition, the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 of the region A1 is formed, for example, so that at least a portion thereof extends from the region A1 to the overlapping region where the region A1 overlaps with the region A2. The light-transmitting conductive layer 111 of the region A2 is formed so that at least a portion thereof extends from the region A2 to the overlapping region where the region A1 overlaps with the region A2, and to the overlapping region where the region A2 overlaps with the region A3. The light-transmitting conductive layer 111 of the region A3 is formed so that at least a portion thereof extends from the region A3 to the overlapping region where the region A2 overlaps with the region A3.

[0107] Here, in order to facilitate understanding of the first embodiment, a comparative example will be described. Figure 6 is a plan view showing a pixel of a comparative example. Figure 7 yes Figure 6 In the comparative example, the same reference numerals are given to the same components as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof is sometimes omitted. Figure 7 In the embodiment, the structure closer to the observer than the color filter 22 in the Z direction and the structure closer to the backlight 40 than the third insulating layer 84 are the same as those in the first embodiment, and thus are omitted. Figure 7 In order to facilitate the understanding of the description, the alignment film AL1 or the alignment film formed on the liquid crystal side of the common electrode 21 is omitted.

[0108] exist Figure 6 In the figure, region A1 is, for example, a region covered by the color filter 122a. Region A2 is, for example, a region covered by the color filter 122b. Region A3 is, for example, a region covered by the color filter 122c.

[0109] like Figure 7 As shown, the pixel 50a of the comparative example has the common electrode 21 and the reflective electrode layer 112 facing each other via the liquid crystal layer 30. The pixel 50a of the comparative example has transmissive display areas A12 and A14 and a reflective display area A13. In the transmissive display area A12 and the transmissive display area A14, light from the backlight source 40 (see Figure 1 ) backlight source BL.

[0110] like Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 1 , in the color filter 22, for example, there is an overlap region A21 where the color filter 122b is mounted on and overlaps the color filter 122a. In the color filter 22, for example, there is an overlap region A22 where the color filter 122c is mounted on and overlaps the color filter 122b. In the color filter 22, for example, there is also an overlap region where the color filter 122a is mounted on and overlaps the color filter 122c, but they are omitted from the illustration because they are the same.

[0111] The stacked structure 15 includes a third insulating layer 84 , relay wiring 86 , and a fourth insulating layer 87 .

[0112] The relay wiring 86 is formed using ITO or the like. Figure 7 as well as Figure 6 As shown, the relay wiring 86 is not formed in the transmissive display area A12 and the transmissive display area A14.

[0113] The reflective electrode layer 112 is formed of Ag (silver) or the like. Figure 7 As shown, the reflective electrode layer 112 is formed on the stacked structure 15. Figure 6 As shown, the reflective electrode layer 112 is formed in the reflective display area A11, the reflective display area A13 and the reflective display area A15.

[0114] and the pixel transistor 51 (refer to Figure 2 ) corresponding to the action, such as Figure 7As shown, an electric field VR is applied between the common electrode 21 and the reflective electrode layer 112, and the alignment state of the liquid crystal molecules 131 of the liquid crystal layer 30 changes. In the pixel 50a, the reflective electrode layer 112 is not formed in the transmissive display area A12 and the transmissive display area A14, and therefore, only the fringe electric field from the end of the reflective electrode layer 112 is applied to the liquid crystal layer 30 in the transmissive display area A12 and the transmissive display area A14.

[0115] In a bright external environment, the light reflected by the reflective electrode layer 112 is used for display, and therefore, the display image is controlled in accordance with the electric field VR between the common electrode 21 and the reflective electrode layer 112. However, in an external environment where sufficient brightness is not ensured, the transmitted light leaking from the transmissive display area A12 and the transmissive display area A14 is also used auxiliary for display. In the comparative example, the electric field intensity of the transmissive display area A12 and the transmissive display area A14 is significantly weakened, and the liquid crystal molecules 131 in this area hardly move from the initial alignment state. As a result, it is considered that the display auxiliary function of these transmissive display areas A12 and A14 is not fully exerted.

[0116] On the other hand, in the first embodiment, the electric field intensity in the transmissive display region A12 and the transmissive display region A14 is increased. Figure 8 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII'. Fig. 9 yes Figure 3 The following is a cross-sectional view of the IX-IX' line. Figure 8 as well as Fig. 9 The pixel 50 of the first embodiment shown in FIG. Figure 7 The comparative example shown is used for comparison. Figure 8 as well as Fig. 9 In, with Figure 7 Similarly, the configuration closer to the viewer than the color filter 22 in the Z direction and the configuration closer to the backlight 40 than the third insulating layer 84 are omitted. Figure 8 as well as Fig. 9 In order to facilitate the understanding of the description, the alignment film formed on the liquid crystal side of the alignment film AL1 or the common electrode 21 is omitted.

[0117] and Figure 7 Unlike the comparative example shown, the pixel 50 of the embodiment has a light-transmitting conductive layer 111. Figure 8As shown, the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 overlapping with the reflective electrode layer 112 of the reflective display region A11 extends toward the transmissive display region A12 existing between the reflective electrode layers 112 adjacent in the X direction. In addition, the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 overlapping with the reflective electrode layer 112 of the reflective display region A13 extends toward the transmissive display region A14 existing between the reflective electrode layers 112 adjacent in the X direction. The light-transmitting conductive layer 111 overlapping with the reflective electrode layer 112 of the reflective display region A15 also extends toward the transmissive display region existing between the reflective electrode layers 112 adjacent in the X direction, but illustration is omitted because they are the same.

[0118] like Figure 3 as well as Fig. 9 As shown, there is a transmissive display region A31 between the reflective electrode layer 112 of the reflective electrode 511 and the reflective electrode layer 112 of the reflective electrode 512 adjacent in the Y direction. In region A4, the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 overlapping with the reflective electrode layer 112 of the reflective electrode 511 extends toward the transmissive display region A31. There is a transmissive display region A32 between the reflective electrode layer 112 of the reflective electrode 512 and the reflective electrode layer 112 of the reflective electrode 513 adjacent in the Y direction. In region A6, the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 overlapping with the reflective electrode layer 112 of the reflective electrode 513 extends toward the transmissive display region A32. The same is true for the reflective electrodes 501, 502, and 503. The same is true for the reflective electrodes 521, 522, and 523. In a plan view, among the reflective electrodes 511, 512, and 513, a portion of the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 of the reflective electrodes 511 and 513 protrudes toward the reflective electrode 512 adjacent in the Y direction more than the reflective electrode layer 112. The light-transmitting conductive layer 111 of the reflective electrode 512 does not protrude toward the transmissive display region A31 or the transmissive display region A32 in the Y direction more than the reflective electrode layer 112.

[0119] As described above, the display device 1 includes an array substrate 10, an opposing substrate 20, and a backlight 40. The array substrate 10 includes a reflective electrode layer 112 including reflective electrodes 501, 502, 503, 511, 512, 513, 521, 522, and 523 arranged in a matrix in the X direction and the Y direction, and a light-transmitting conductive layer 111 at least partially overlapping the reflective electrodes 501, 502, 503, 511, 512, 513, 521, 522, and 523 when viewed from the Z direction. The opposing substrate 20 includes a common electrode 21 overlapping the reflective electrode layer 112 when viewed from the Z direction, and color filters 122a, 122b, and 122c including a plurality of colors.

[0120] Thus, an electric field VR is formed not only between the reflective electrode layer 112 and the common electrode 21, but also between the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 and the common electrode 21 in the transmissive display regions A12 and A14, thereby changing the alignment state of the liquid crystal molecules 131 of the liquid crystal layer 30 in both the reflective display regions A11, A13, and A15 and the transmissive display regions A12 and A14. Figure 7 Compared with the comparative example shown, the pixel 50 of the first embodiment improves the alignment characteristics of the liquid crystal molecules 131 in the transmissive display region A12 and the transmissive display region A14, thereby improving the brightness of the entire pixel.

[0121] A portion of the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 extends between two adjacent reflective electrodes in the X direction. As a result, in addition to the fringe electric field from the end of the reflective electrode layer 112, an electric field VR is applied between the common electrode 21 and the light-transmitting conductive layer 111, causing the alignment state of the liquid crystal molecules 131 of the liquid crystal layer 30 to change. As a result, Figure 7 Compared with the comparative example shown, the electric field intensity of the transmissive display area A12 and the transmissive display area A14 of the pixel 50 of the first embodiment is increased, and the display quality in an external environment where sufficient brightness is not ensured is improved. Then, the display device 1 is easy to see the screen even in a bright external environment based on the reflective electrode layer 112, and the lighting of the backlight source 40 can be suppressed, thereby reducing power consumption.

[0122] like Figure 8 As shown, in the color filter 22, for example, there is an overlap region A21 where the color filter 122b rides on and overlaps the color filter 122a. In the color filter 22, for example, there is an overlap region A22 where the color filter 122c rides on and overlaps the color filter 122b. In the color filter 22, for example, there is another overlap region where the color filter 122a rides on and overlaps the color filter 122c, but they are omitted from the illustration because they are the same.

[0123] In addition, in a bright external environment, for example, when one of the adjacent sub-pixels is lit and the other is off, light from the reflective electrode is reflected at the end of the color filter 122b of the sub-pixel on the off side, and the red component as the display color is mixed with the green component as the non-display color, and the NTSC (National Television System Committee) ratio may decrease. In the first embodiment, in order to prevent color mixing in a bright external environment, there are regions where color filters of different colors overlap each other, such as the overlap region A21 and the overlap region A22.

[0124] The transmittance of the overlapped area A21 and the overlapped area A22 is lower than that of the color filter 122a, the color filter 122b, and the color filter 122c. That is, the overlapped areas A21 and A22 have the function of a light shielding layer that suppresses the mixing of colors of adjacent pixels. Here, the translucent conductive layer 111 overlapping with the reflective electrode layer 112 of the reflective display area A11 is formed by extending at least to the overlapped area A21. In a top view, a portion (end edge) of the translucent conductive layer 111 extending between two adjacent reflective electrode layers 112 in the X direction overlaps with the overlapped area A21. As a result, the electric field VR caused by the translucent conductive layer 111 can maximize the influence on the liquid crystal molecules 131 overlapping with the color filter 122a present in the transmissive display area A12. Of course, it is also possible to replace the stacking of color filters as described above to form a light shielding layer, but to adopt a structure in which a black matrix is ​​additionally provided.

[0125] Similarly, the translucent conductive layer 111 overlapping with the reflective electrode layer 112 in the reflective display region A13 is formed to extend at least to the overlap region A22. Thus, the electric field VR caused by the translucent conductive layer 111 can maximally affect the liquid crystal molecules 131 overlapping with the color filter 122b present in the transmissive display region A14. As a result, the pixel 50 of the first embodiment contributes to the display quality of the liquid crystal molecules 131 in the transmissive display region A12 and the transmissive display region A14 in an external environment where sufficient brightness is not ensured.

[0126] The light-transmitting conductive layer 111 overlaps only one of the two reflective electrode layers 112 adjacent to each other in the X direction, and does not overlap the other reflective electrode layer 112. Therefore, the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 is unlikely to overlap two of the color filter 122a, the color filter 122b, and the color filter 122c, thereby suppressing color mixing in the transmissive display area A12 or the transmissive display area A14.

[0127] [Second embodiment]

[0128] Fig.10 is a cross-sectional view of a pixel according to the second embodiment. Figure 3 The planes shown are of the same construction. Fig.10 The cross section is Figure 3 A cross section of the same portion along line VIII-VIII'. Fig.11 This is another cross-sectional view of the pixel according to the second embodiment. Fig.11 The cross section is Figure 3 The cross section of the same part of the IX-IX' line. Fig.10 as well as Fig.11 In, with Figure 8Similarly, the configuration closer to the viewer than the color filter 22 in the Z direction and the configuration closer to the backlight 40 than the third insulating layer 84 are omitted. Fig.10 as well as Fig.11 In order to facilitate the description, the alignment film AL1 or the alignment film formed on the liquid crystal side of the common electrode 21 is omitted. In the second embodiment, the same reference numerals are given to the same configurations as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof may be omitted.

[0129] exist Fig.10 In the pixel 50A of the second embodiment shown, the fourth insulating layer 87A is an inorganic film. The fourth insulating layer 87A is made of silicon nitride and can be made thinner than the fourth insulating layer 87 of the first embodiment, which is an organic film.

[0130] The fourth insulating layer 87 of the first embodiment is formed of an organic film and is about several μm thick. In contrast, the fourth insulating layer 87A can be thinned to about 200 nm. The thickness of the fourth insulating layer 87A is not limited to about 200 nm, and may be other thicknesses. The fourth insulating layer 87A is, for example, silicon nitride, but is not limited thereto. The fourth insulating layer 87A between the translucent conductive layer 111 and the reflective electrode layer 112 is an inorganic film, thereby shortening the distance between the translucent conductive layer 111 and the common electrode 21.

[0131] Thus, the pixel 50A of the second embodiment can enhance the electric field intensity of the transmissive display area A31, the transmissive display area A32, the transmissive display area A12, and the transmissive display area A14, compared with the pixel 50 of the first embodiment. Thus, the second embodiment can further improve the transmission characteristics of the transmissive display area A31, the transmissive display area A32, the transmissive display area A12, and the transmissive display area A14.

[0132] [Third Embodiment]

[0133] Fig.12 It is a plan view showing a pixel according to the third embodiment. Fig.13 yes Fig.12 A cross-sectional view taken along line XIII-XIII'. Fig.12 The cross-sectional view of the IX-IX' line is Fig. 9 In addition, Fig.11 In, with Figure 8 Similarly, the configuration closer to the viewer than the color filter 22 in the Z direction and the configuration closer to the backlight 40 in the third insulating layer 84 are omitted. Fig.11In order to facilitate the description, the alignment film AL1 or the alignment film formed on the liquid crystal side of the common electrode 21 is omitted. In the third embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof may be omitted.

[0134] Compared with the pixel 50 of the first embodiment, Fig.12 as well as Fig.13 In the pixel 50B of the third embodiment shown, the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 extends longer and overlaps with both of the two reflective electrode layers 112 adjacent to each other in the X direction.

[0135] As a result, the area of ​​the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 in the transmissive display region A12 or the transmissive display region A14 increases, and the pixel 50B of the third embodiment can enhance the electric field intensity in the transmissive display region A12 and the transmissive display region A14 compared to the pixel 50 of the first embodiment.

[0136] In addition, Fig.11 In the embodiment, the overlapping region A21 may be formed close to the right end of the reflective electrode layer 112 of the reflective display region A13, and the overlapping region A22 may be formed close to the right end of the reflective electrode layer 112 of the reflective display region A15, so as to prevent color mixing. That is, the overlapping region A21 and the overlapping region A22 of the third embodiment are formed at positions offset from the center between the reflective electrode layers 112 adjacent in the X direction, thereby suppressing color mixing.

[0137] In the pixel 50B of the third embodiment, Figure 6 Compared with the comparative example shown, the electric field intensity of the transmissive display area A31 and the transmissive display area A32 can also be enhanced. Therefore, the third embodiment can further improve the transmissive characteristics of the transmissive display area A31, the transmissive display area A32, the transmissive display area A12 and the transmissive display area A14.

[0138] [Variation of the third embodiment]

[0139] Fig.14 It is a cross-sectional view of a modified example of the third embodiment. Fig.14 The cross section is Fig.12 The section of the same part of the XIII-XIII' line. Fig.14 In, with Figure 8 Similarly, the configuration closer to the viewer than the color filter 22 in the Z direction and the configuration closer to the backlight 40 than the third insulating layer 84 are omitted. Fig.14In order to facilitate the description, the alignment film AL1 or the alignment film formed on the liquid crystal side of the common electrode 21 is omitted. In the modification of the third embodiment, the same reference numerals are attached to the same configurations as those in the first to third embodiments, and the description thereof is omitted.

[0140] exist Fig.14 In the pixel 50C of the variation of the third embodiment shown, the fourth insulating layer 87A is an inorganic film. The fourth insulating layer 87 is silicon nitride, and can be made thinner than the fourth insulating layer 87 of the third embodiment, which is an organic film. In addition, compared with the pixel 50 of the first embodiment, the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 in the pixel 50C of the variation of the third embodiment extends longer and overlaps with both of the two reflective electrode layers 112 adjacent in the X direction.

[0141] Thus, the pixel 50C of the modification of the third embodiment can enhance the electric field strength of the transmissive display region A12 and the transmissive display region A14 compared to the pixel 50B of the third embodiment. Thus, the modification of the third embodiment can further improve the transmissive characteristics of the transmissive display region A31, the transmissive display region A32, the transmissive display region A12, and the transmissive display region A14.

[0142] [Fourth embodiment]

[0143] Fig.15 It is a plan view showing a pixel according to the fourth embodiment. Fig.16 yes Fig.15 Cross-sectional view along line XVI-XVI'. Fig.17 yes Fig.15 Cross-sectional view along line XVI-XVI'. Fig.18 yes Fig.15 In addition, Fig.16 as well as Fig.17 In, with Figure 8 Similarly, the configuration closer to the viewer than the color filter 22 in the Z direction and the configuration closer to the backlight 40 than the third insulating layer 84 are omitted. Fig.16 as well as Fig.17 In order to facilitate the description, the alignment film AL1 or the alignment film formed on the liquid crystal side of the common electrode 21 is omitted. In the fourth embodiment, the same reference numerals are given to the same configurations as those in the comparative example and the first to third embodiments, and the description thereof may be omitted.

[0144] like Fig.18As shown, in the pixel 50D of the fourth embodiment, the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 and the relay wiring 86 are formed in different layers. The reflective electrode layer 112 is formed directly on the light-transmitting conductive layer 111. Thus, the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 can extend around the reflective electrode layer 112 without passing through the relay wiring 86.

[0145] For example, Fig.16 The light-transmitting conductive layer 111 overlapping the reflective electrode layer 112 of the reflective display region A11 shown extends toward the transmissive display region A12 existing between the reflective electrode layers 112 adjacent in the X direction. Fig.16 The light-transmitting conductive layer 111 overlapping with the reflective electrode layer 112 in the reflective display region A13 shown extends toward both the transmissive display region A12 and the transmissive display region A14 between the reflective electrode layers 112 adjacent to each other in the X direction. As a result, the pixel 50D of the fourth embodiment has a larger overlapping area between the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 and the color filter 122b than the pixel 50 of the first embodiment.

[0146] like Fig.15 as well as Fig.17 As shown, there is a transmissive display region A31 between the reflective electrode layer 112 of region A4 and the reflective electrode layer 112 of region A5 adjacent in the Y direction. In region A4, the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 overlapping with the reflective electrode layer 112 of the reflective electrode 511 extends toward the transmissive display region A31. There is a transmissive display region A32 between the reflective electrode layer 112 of region A5 and the reflective electrode layer 112 of region A6 adjacent in the Y direction. In region A6, the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 overlapping with the reflective electrode layer 112 of the reflective electrode 513 extends toward the transmissive display region A32.

[0147] Thus, in the region A12, in addition to the fringe electric field generated between the end of the reflective electrode layer 112 and the common electrode 21, an electric field VR generated between the common electrode 21 and the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 is also applied, and these electric fields change the alignment state of the liquid crystal molecules 131 of the liquid crystal layer 30 in the region A12. As a result, Figure 8 Compared with the pixel 50 of the first embodiment shown, the pixel 50D of the fourth embodiment adds a step of forming a translucent conductive layer 111 and a relay wiring 86 in different layers, but the electric field strength of the transmissive display area A31, the transmissive display area A32, the transmissive display area A12 and the transmissive display area A14 becomes higher, and the display quality in an external environment where sufficient brightness is not ensured is improved.

[0148] [Fifth embodiment]

[0149] Fig.19It is a plan view showing a pixel according to the fifth embodiment. Fig. 20 yes Fig.19 In addition, Fig. 20 In, with Figure 8 Similarly, the configuration closer to the viewer than the color filter 22 in the Z direction and the configuration closer to the backlight 40 than the fourth insulating layer 87 are omitted. Fig. 20 In order to facilitate the description, the alignment film AL1 or the alignment film formed on the liquid crystal side of the common electrode 21 is omitted. In the fifth embodiment, the same reference numerals are given to the same configurations as those in the comparative example and the first to fourth embodiments, and the description thereof may be omitted.

[0150] The pixel 50E of the fifth embodiment is different from the first to fourth embodiments in that the pixel 50E has two reflective electrodes and is divided into an area A41 and an area A42 .

[0151] like Fig.19 As shown, region A41 and region A42 are respectively the configuration regions of the reflective electrode layer 112A and the reflective electrode layer 112B arranged in the Y direction. The reflective electrode layer 112A and the light-transmitting conductive layer 111A are configured in region A41, and the reflective electrode layer 112B and the light-transmitting conductive layer 111B are configured in region A42.

[0152] The light-transmitting conductive layer 111A and the light-transmitting conductive layer 111B are light-transmitting electrodes formed of ITO or the like. The reflective electrode layer 112A and the reflective electrode layer 112B are electrodes formed of Ag (silver) or the like that reflect incident light from the outside.

[0153] In the pixel 50E of the fifth embodiment, the reflective electrode layer 112B has the same area as the total area of ​​the two reflective electrode layers 112 connected by the relay wiring 86 of the fourth embodiment. That is, the area A42 is the MSB area, and the area A41 is the LSB area. In addition, in this embodiment, it is not necessary to connect the MSB areas separated from each other by the relay wiring as in the fourth embodiment, and the respective relay wirings (translucent conductive layers 111A and 111B) are connected to each pixel transistor. Alternatively, it is also possible to connect each reflective electrode layer 112A and 112B to the pixel transistor respectively without using the relay wiring. The reflective electrode layer 112A is directly formed on the translucent conductive layer 111A. The reflective electrode layer 112B is directly formed on the translucent conductive layer 111B. As a result, the translucent conductive layer 111A is extended to the periphery of the reflective electrode layer 112A, and the translucent conductive layer 111B can be extended to the periphery of the reflective electrode layer 112B.

[0154] like Fig.19As shown, there is a transmissive display region A33 between the reflective electrode layer 112A and the reflective electrode layer 112B adjacent in the Y direction. The light-transmitting conductive layer 111A overlapping the reflective electrode layer 112A only extends toward the transmissive display region A33 by an amount corresponding to the region A41a. The light-transmitting conductive layer 111B overlapping the reflective electrode layer 112B only extends toward the transmissive display region A33 by an amount corresponding to the region A42a.

[0155] Thus, between the common electrode 21 and the translucent conductive layer 111A and the translucent conductive layer 111B, not only the fringe electric field from the ends of the reflective electrode layer 112A and the reflective electrode layer 112B but also the electric field VR is applied, so that the alignment state of the liquid crystal molecules 131 of the liquid crystal layer 30 is changed. As a result, the electric field intensity of the transmissive display area A33 of the pixel 50E of the fifth embodiment becomes high, and the light of the backlight 40 that has passed through the transmissive display area A33 is effectively used in an external environment where sufficient brightness is not ensured. As a result, the display quality in an external environment where sufficient brightness is not ensured is improved.

[0156] The reflective electrode layer 112A and the reflective electrode layer 112B have different areas. The reflective electrode layer 112A is the LSB region, and the reflective electrode layer 112B is the MSB region. In a bright external environment, when the backlight source 40 is not turned on and the pixel 50E is displayed at an intermediate brightness, for example, the reflective electrode layer 112A is turned on and the reflective electrode layer 112B is turned off. In this state, when the polarity of the reflective electrode layer 112A is repeatedly changed to negative or positive by common inversion driving, the electric field VR of the light-transmitting conductive layer 111A located in the transmissive display area A33 causes Fig. 20 The liquid crystal molecules in the region A51a shown are changed. As a result, reflected light is generated in the region A52a where the region A51a overlaps with the non-lit reflective electrode layer 112B, and flicker may be visually recognized by the observer. This flicker can be improved in the pixel 50F of the modification of the fifth embodiment.

[0157] [Variation of the fifth embodiment]

[0158] Fig.21 It is a plan view showing a pixel according to a modified example of the fifth embodiment. Fig. 22 yes Fig.21 In addition, Fig. 22 In, with Fig. 20 Similarly, the configuration closer to the viewer than the color filter 22 in the Z direction and the configuration closer to the backlight 40 than the fourth insulating layer 87 are omitted. Fig. 22In order to facilitate the description, the alignment film AL1 or the alignment film formed on the liquid crystal side of the common electrode 21 is omitted. In the modification of the fifth embodiment, the same reference numerals are attached to the same configurations as the comparative example and the first to fifth embodiments, and the description thereof may be omitted.

[0159] like Fig.21 As shown, there is a transmissive display region A33 between the reflective electrode layer 112A and the reflective electrode layer 112B adjacent in the Y direction. The transmissive conductive layer 111A overlapping the reflective electrode layer 112A extends to the transmissive display region A33 only by an amount corresponding to the region A41b. The transmissive conductive layer 111B overlapping the reflective electrode layer 112B extends to the transmissive display region A33 only by an amount corresponding to the region A42b. In the fifth embodiment, the lengths of the regions A41a and A42a in the Y direction are the same, but in a modified example of the fifth embodiment, the lengths of the regions A41b in the Y direction are smaller than those of the regions A42b. The lengths of the regions A41b in the Y direction are smaller than those of the regions A41a, and the lengths of the regions A42b in the Y direction are larger than those of the regions A42a.

[0160] In a bright external environment, when the backlight source 40 is not turned on and the pixel 50F is displayed at an intermediate brightness, for example, the reflective electrode layer 112A is turned on and the reflective electrode layer 112B is turned off. In this state, if the polarity of the reflective electrode layer 112A is repeatedly changed to negative and positive by common inversion driving, in a modified example of the fifth embodiment, Fig. 22 As shown in FIG. 1 , the electric field VR of the light-transmitting conductive layer 111A in the transmissive display region A33 also causes the liquid crystal molecules in the region A51a to change. In a modified example of the fifth embodiment, by making the length of the region A41b in the Y direction smaller than that of the region A42b, the influence of the electric field VR from the light-transmitting conductive layer 111A on the reflective electrode layer 112B in the MSB region is reduced. In the fifth embodiment, as shown in FIG. Fig. 22 As shown, in the modified example of the fifth embodiment, the area A51 where flicker may be visually recognized is different from the area A51a where flicker may occur (see Fig. 20 ) is reduced. As a result, the possibility that the area A51 and the area A52 overlapping the non-lit reflective electrode layer 112B will generate reflected light and be visually recognized by the observer is reduced. That is, when only the LSB area is lit, the flicker generated at the end of the reflective electrode layer 112B in the MSB area can be reduced.

[0161] Furthermore, when the reflective electrode layer 112B in the MSB region is in the lit state and the reflective electrode layer 112A in the LSB region is in the non-lit state, the end of the reflective electrode layer 112A in the LSB region also emits light, which may cause flicker. However, since the area of ​​the reflective electrode layer 112B is larger than that of the reflective electrode layer 112A, even if the end of the reflective electrode layer 112A emits light, it is difficult for the observer to visually recognize the flicker.

[0162] As described above, in the modification of the fifth embodiment, the length in the Y direction of the protrusion of the light-transmitting conductive layer 111A protruding from the end of the reflective electrode layer 112A toward the MSB region is shorter than the length in the Y direction of the protrusion of the light-transmitting conductive layer 111B protruding from the end of the reflective electrode 1112B toward the LSB region. Thus, in a bright external environment, when the backlight 40 is not turned on and the pixel 50F is displayed at an intermediate brightness, the flicker generated can be reduced.

[0163] In the first embodiment, the second embodiment, the third embodiment, the modified example of the third embodiment, and the fourth embodiment, the length in the Y direction of the protrusion of the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 in the LSB region from the end of the reflective electrode layer 112 toward the MSB region is also shorter than the length in the Y direction of the protrusion of the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 in the MSB region from the end of the reflective electrode layer 112 toward the LSB region. For example, Figure 3 The region of the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 that overlaps only with the reflective electrode 512 that is not connected by the relay wiring 86 and extends from the reflective electrode 512 in the Y direction is smaller than the region of the light-transmitting conductive layer 111 that overlaps only with the reflective electrode 511 and the reflective electrode 513 that are connected by the relay wiring 86 and extends from the reflective electrode 511 in the Y direction. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the second embodiment, the third embodiment, the modified example of the third embodiment, and the fourth embodiment described above, the same effects as those of the pixel 50F in the modified example of the fifth embodiment are also achieved.

[0164] [Sixth embodiment]

[0165] Fig.23 This is a circuit diagram showing an example of a circuit configuration of a pixel of the MIP method according to the sixth embodiment. Fig.24 This is a timing chart for explaining an operation example of a pixel according to the sixth embodiment. A pixel of the MIP (Memory In Pixel) method can be applied to the first to fifth embodiments and their modifications.

[0166] The pixels 50 to 50D of the first to fourth embodiments can realize area brightness display by connecting a plurality of reflective electrodes to the signal line 61 and the scanning line 62 via other drive circuits. For example, in the above embodiment, the pixel 50 is divided into two display areas, the MSB area and the LSB area. However, by setting the area ratio of the MSB area to the LSB area in these display areas to 2:1, it is possible to realize the area ratio of 0, 1 (2 0 )、2(2 1 )、4(2 2 ) 2-bit area brightness display. In the area brightness display, the brightness of each pixel is easily displayed digitally by driving in a so-called MIP method having a memory capable of storing data for each pixel instead of the above-mentioned pixel transistor 51.

[0167] In the first embodiment, the potential of the reflective electrode layer 112 is written as the potential of the signal line 61 by using the above-mentioned pixel transistor 51. In the case of using a frame inversion driving method, in order to write the signal voltage of the same polarity to the signal line 61 during one frame, a shadow is easily generated. In addition, in the sixth embodiment, similarly to the second embodiment, the translucent conductive layer 111 overlapping with the reflective electrode layer 112 of the reflective display area A15 extends to the transmissive display area existing between the reflective electrode layers 112 adjacent in the X direction. Therefore, an interlayer capacitance is generated between the reflective electrode layer 112 and the translucent conductive layer 111. As in the second embodiment, if the fourth insulating layer 87A (see Fig. 9 ) the interlayer capacitance increases, and depending on the displayed image, the display quality may be degraded due to the potential fluctuations associated with capacitive coupling via the interlayer capacitance.

[0168] In contrast, in the MIP method of the sixth embodiment, each pixel 50 has a memory function. In the case of the MIP method, since a constant voltage is always applied to the pixel, shadows can be reduced. In addition, the pixel is driven by direct current, so the influence of the interlayer capacitance generated between the reflective electrode layer 112 and the translucent conductive layer 111 can be suppressed.

[0169] The MIP method can realize a memory display mode by having a memory storing data in a pixel. The memory display mode is a display mode that digitally displays the brightness of a pixel based on binary information (logical "1" / logical "0") stored in the memory in the pixel.

[0170] like Fig.23As shown, the pixel 50 includes a liquid crystal capacitor 52 and a pixel circuit 58. The pixel circuit 58 includes a switch element 55, a switch element 56, and a latch unit 57. The pixel circuit 58 has an SRAM (Static Random Access Memory) function. That is, the pixel 50 has a configuration with an SRAM function.

[0171] The switching element 54 is the pixel transistor 51 described in the first embodiment. In the MIP method of the fifth embodiment, a pixel circuit 58 is provided between the reflective electrode (translucent conductive layer 111 and reflective electrode layer 112) and the pixel transistor 51 as the switching element 54. The switching element 54 is electrically connected to a signal line 61 (equivalent to Figure 2 The switch element 54 is, for example, Figure 2 The scanning circuit 71 shown receives the scanning signal φV via the scanning line 62. The switch element 54 is turned on when receiving the scanning signal φV. For example, when the switch element 54 is turned on, Figure 2 The illustrated signal output circuit 70 acquires data SIG via the signal line 61 .

[0172] The latch unit 57 includes an inverter 571 and an inverter 572. The input terminal of the inverter 571 and the output terminal of the inverter 572 are electrically connected. The output terminal of the inverter 571 and the input terminal of the inverter 572 are electrically connected. That is, the inverter 571 and the inverter 572 are connected in parallel in opposite directions. The latch unit 57 has a function of holding a potential corresponding to the data SIG acquired by the switch element 54.

[0173] A control pulse (first display signal) XFRP having a phase opposite to that of the common potential VCOM is input to one terminal of the switch element 55. The other terminal of the switch element 55 is electrically connected to an output node Nout of the pixel circuit.

[0174] A control pulse (first display signal) XFRP having a phase opposite to that of the common potential VCOM is input to one terminal of the switch element 55. The other terminal of the switch element 55 is electrically connected to an output node Nout of the pixel circuit.

[0175] One of the switch element 55 and the switch element 56 is turned on in accordance with the polarity of the potential held by the latch unit 57. When the switch element 55 is turned on, the control pulse XFPR is applied to the liquid crystal capacitor 52. When the switch element 56 is turned on, the control pulse (second display signal) FRP is applied to the liquid crystal capacitor 52. More specifically, the output node Nout is connected to the reflective electrode layer 112 (pixel electrode) and the translucent conductive layer 111 via the relay wiring 86. Thus, one of the control pulses applied to the output node Nout is applied to the reflective electrode layer 112 and the translucent conductive layer 111 that are opposite to the common electrode via the liquid crystal layer.

[0176] Fig.24 The operation of the data SIG, the scanning signal φV, the holding potential held by the latch unit 57, the control pulse (second display signal) FRP, the control pulse (first display signal) XFRP, the pixel potential, and the common potential VCOM is shown.

[0177] There are two display modes: a normally white mode in which the display is white when no electric field (voltage) is applied and black when an electric field is applied, and a normally black mode in which the display is black when no electric field is applied and white when an electric field is applied. The display device of this embodiment can be applied to both the normally white mode and the normally black mode. According to the normally black mode, the display becomes black when no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal, that is, when the liquid crystal is uniformly oriented, and the black color can be fixed, thereby improving the contrast. In the normally black mode, as shown in FIG. Fig.24 As shown, when the holding potential of the latch unit 57 is of the negative polarity, the pixel potential of the liquid crystal capacitor 52 is in phase with the common potential VCOM, thereby resulting in a black display. When the holding potential of the latch unit 57 is of the positive polarity, the pixel potential of the liquid crystal capacitor 52 is in phase with the common potential VCOM, thereby resulting in a white display.

[0178] The pixel 50 of the MIP turns on one of the switch element 55 and the switch element 56 in accordance with the polarity of the holding potential of the latch unit 57, thereby applying the control pulse (second display signal) FRP or the control pulse (first display signal) XFRP to the pixel electrode of the liquid crystal capacitor 52. As a result, a constant voltage is always applied to the pixel 50, thereby suppressing the generation of shadows.

[0179] exist Fig.23 In the above description, an example of using SRAM as a memory built into the pixel 50 is given, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The memory built into the pixel 50 is not limited to SRAM, and may be, for example, DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory). The pixel 50 may also have other memories built into it.

[0180] In the above example, as a pixel having a memory function, a pixel using MIP having a memory capable of storing data for each pixel is used, but this is only an example. As a pixel having a memory function, in addition to a pixel using MIP, for example, a pixel using a well-known memory liquid crystal can be exemplified.

[0181] The above describes the embodiments of the present disclosure, but the present disclosure is not limited by the contents of these embodiments. In addition, the above-mentioned constituent elements include constituent elements that can be easily imagined by those skilled in the art, substantially the same constituent elements, and constituent elements of so-called equal scope. Moreover, the above-mentioned constituent elements can be appropriately combined. Moreover, various omissions, replacements or changes of constituent elements can be performed within the scope of the gist of the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0182] For example, as a pixel, it is not limited to a pixel that combines sub-pixels of the three primary colors of RGB. For example, it is also possible to add one color or multiple colors to the three primary colors of RGB to set it as a unit pixel. More specifically, for example, in order to increase the brightness, it is also possible to add a sub-pixel that displays white (White: W) to set a unit pixel, or to add at least one sub-pixel that displays a complementary color to set a unit pixel in order to expand the color reproduction range.

Claims

1. A display device comprising: An array substrate comprising a plurality of pixels arranged in a matrix in a first direction and a second direction, each pixel comprising a reflective electrode layer and a light-transmitting conductive layer at least partially overlapping the reflective electrode layer when viewed from a third direction orthogonal to the first direction and the second direction; an opposing substrate including a common electrode overlapping the reflective electrode layer when viewed from the third direction, and a color filter including a plurality of colors; and a backlight source which is opposite to the counter substrate via the array substrate, Different color filters among the color filters are arranged adjacent to each other in the first direction, and color filters of the same color extend in the second direction. A portion of the light-transmitting conductive layer protrudes between two of the reflective electrode layers adjacent to each other in the second direction. The first area of ​​the translucent conductive layer that overlaps only with the larger reflective electrode layer of the two reflective electrode layers adjacent in the second direction and extends toward the smaller reflective electrode layer is larger than the second area of ​​the translucent conductive layer that overlaps only with the smaller reflective electrode layer and extends toward the larger reflective electrode layer.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The color filter includes a first color filter of a first color arranged in a strip shape along the second direction, a second color filter of a second color different from the first color and adjacent to the first color filter in the first direction and arranged in a strip shape along the second direction, and an overlapping area between the first color filter and the second color filter. When viewed from the third direction, a portion of the light-transmitting conductive layer also protrudes between the two reflective electrode layers adjacent to each other in the first direction and overlaps with the overlapping region.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The light-transmitting conductive layer overlaps only one of the two reflective electrode layers adjacent to each other in the first direction, and does not overlap the other reflective electrode layer.

4. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The light-transmitting conductive layer extends from one of the two reflective electrode layers adjacent to each other in the first direction to the other reflective electrode layer, and overlaps with both of the two reflective electrode layers adjacent to each other in the first direction.

5. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: An insulating layer is provided between the reflective electrode layer and the light-transmitting conductive layer. The insulating layer is an inorganic film.

6. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The reflective electrode layer is formed directly on the light-transmitting conductive layer.

7. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: It also includes a relay wiring connecting at least two of the reflective electrode layers, The light-transmitting conductive layer and the relay wiring are in the same layer.

8. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: It also includes a relay wiring connecting at least two of the reflective electrode layers, The reflective electrode layer includes a pair of first reflective electrode layers connected by the relay wiring and a second reflective electrode layer provided between the pair of first reflective electrode layers. A region of the light-transmitting conductive layer overlapping only the second reflective electrode layer and extending from the second reflective electrode layer in the second direction is smaller than a region of the light-transmitting conductive layer overlapping only one of the pair of first reflective electrode layers and extending from the first reflective electrode layer toward the second reflective electrode layer in the second direction.

9. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: It also includes a relay wiring connecting at least two reflective electrode layers, The reflective electrode layer includes a pair of first reflective electrode layers connected by the relay wiring and a second reflective electrode layer provided between the pair of first reflective electrode layers. The light-transmitting conductive layer overlapping only the second reflective electrode layer does not protrude from the second reflective electrode layer in a plan view. The light-transmitting conductive layer overlapping at least only one of the pair of first reflective electrode layers extends toward the second reflective electrode layer in the second direction.

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