Display device

Abstract

A display device includes a plurality of scan lines, a plurality of signal lines, a plurality of pixels, a pixel electrode, and a common electrode. The pixel electrode includes a first stem portion and a plurality of first branch portions extending from the first stem portion. The common electrode includes a second stem portion and a plurality of second branch portions extending from the second stem portion. Each of the plurality of first branch portions and each of the plurality of second branch portions are arranged alternately. The signal lines and the pixel electrode are formed of the same material and by the same process.

Description

[0001] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-040574 filed on March 15, 2022, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] Embodiments of the present application relate to a display device. BACKGROUND

[0003] As an example of a display device, a liquid crystal display device of an IPS (In-Plane-Switching) mode is known. In the liquid crystal display device of the IPS mode, a pixel electrode and a common electrode are provided on one of a pair of substrates facing each other with a liquid crystal layer interposed therebetween, and the orientation of liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer is controlled by a horizontal electric field generated between the electrodes. Further, in the IPS mode, a liquid crystal display device of an FFS (Fringe Field Switching) mode in which a pixel electrode and a common electrode are disposed in different layers is put into practical use. In this liquid crystal display device, the orientation of liquid crystal molecules is controlled by a fringe electric field generated between a pair of electrodes.

[0004] On the other hand, in Patent Literature 1 described below, a liquid crystal display device in which the response speed is accelerated by periodically forming a region in which liquid crystal molecules do not rotate in each pixel is disclosed. Hereinafter, the structure of this kind of liquid crystal display device is referred to as a high-speed response mode. SUMMARY

[0005] An object of the present embodiment is to provide a display device in which the number of manufacturing processes is reduced and the reliability is improved.

[0006] A display device according to one aspect includes a plurality of scan lines extending in a first direction; a plurality of signal lines extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction; a plurality of pixels provided at intersections of the plurality of scan lines and the plurality of signal lines; a pixel electrode provided for each of the plurality of pixels; and a common electrode provided across the plurality of pixels. The pixel electrode includes a first stem portion and a plurality of first branch portions extending from the first stem portion. The common electrode includes a second stem portion and a plurality of second branch portions extending from the second stem portion. Each of the plurality of first branch portions and each of the plurality of second branch portions are arranged to be staggered with respect to each other. The signal lines and the pixel electrodes are formed of the same material and by the same process. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a view showing an equivalent circuit of a display device.

[0008] Figure 2 FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a configuration of a display device.

[0009] Figure 3 is a sectional view showing the configuration of a display device of a comparative example.

[0010] Figure 4 is a plan view showing the configuration of a display device of a comparative example.

[0011] Figure 5 is a plan view showing an example of an outline configuration of a display device of an embodiment.

[0012] Figure 6 is a plan view showing an example of an outline configuration of a display device of an embodiment.

[0013] Figure 7 is a plan view showing an example of an outline configuration of a display device of an embodiment.

[0014] Figure 8 is a plan view showing an example of an outline configuration of a display device of an embodiment.

[0015] Figure 9 is a plan view showing an example of a configuration of a display device of an embodiment.

[0016] Figure 10 is a plan view showing an example of a configuration of a display device of an embodiment.

[0017] Figure 11 is a plan view showing an example of a configuration of a display device of an embodiment.

[0018] Figure 12 is a plan view showing an example of a configuration of a display device of an embodiment.

[0019] Figure 13 is a plan view showing Figure 12 a common electrode among the constituent elements of the display device shown in FIG. 1.

[0020] Figure 14 is a plan view showing Figure 12 a signal line, a drain electrode, and a pixel electrode among the constituent elements of the display device shown in FIG. 1. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] Hereinafter, an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 1Embodiments of the present application will be described. In addition, the disclosure is only one example, and what can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art with appropriate modifications while maintaining the gist of the application is of course included in the scope of the present application. Furthermore, the drawings are for the purpose of making the description clearer, and in some cases, the width, thickness, shape, and the like of each portion are schematically shown compared to the actual form, but this is only one example and does not limit the explanation of the present application. Furthermore, in the present specification and each drawing, in some cases, detailed explanation is appropriately omitted by assigning the same reference numerals to elements similar to those described with respect to the already appeared drawings.

[0022] The embodiments described in the present specification are not general, and are embodiments in which the same or corresponding specific technical features of the present application are described. Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 The display device according to an embodiment will be described in detail.

[0023] In the present embodiment, the first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z are orthogonal to each other, but can intersect at an angle other than 90 degrees. The direction of the tip of the arrow toward the third direction Z is defined as up or upward, and the direction on the opposite side to the direction of the tip of the arrow toward the third direction Z is defined as down or downward. In addition, the first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z are sometimes referred to as the X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction, respectively.

[0024] Furthermore, in the case of being "a second member above a first member" and "a second member below a first member", the second member can be in contact with the first member, or can be located apart from the first member. In the latter case, a third member can be interposed between the first member and the second member. On the other hand, in the case of being "a second member above a first member" and "a second member below a first member", the second member is in contact with the first member.

[0025] Furthermore, assuming that an observation position at which the display device is observed is on the tip side of the arrow of the third direction Z, the observation from the observation position toward the X-Y plane defined by the first direction X and the second direction Y is called plan view. The observation of a cross section of the display device in the X-Z plane defined by the first direction X and the third direction Z or the Y-Z plane defined by the second direction Y and the third direction Z is called sectional view.

[0026] [Embodiment]

[0027] Figure 1 is a drawing showing an example of an equivalent circuit of a display device.

[0028] The display device DSP has a plurality of pixels PX, a plurality of scan lines GL, and a plurality of signal lines SL in a display region DA in which an image is displayed. The plurality of scan lines GL and the plurality of signal lines SL cross each other. Further, the display device DSP has a driver DR1 and a driver DR2 outside the display region DA. The plurality of scan lines GL are electrically connected to the driver DR1. The plurality of signal lines SL are electrically connected to the driver DR2. The drivers DR1 and DR2 are controlled by a control section.

[0029] The pixel PX represented here is called a sub-pixel, a color pixel, or the like, and corresponds to, for example, a red pixel that displays red, a green pixel that displays green, a blue pixel that displays blue, or a white pixel that displays white, or the like. The pixel PX is provided at an intersection of a scan line GL and a signal line SL. Further, the pixel PX is divided by two scan lines GL and two signal lines SL.

[0030] Each pixel PX has a switching element SW, a pixel electrode PE, and a common electrode CE that opposes the pixel electrode PE. The switching element SW is electrically connected to the scan line GL and the signal line SL. The pixel electrode PE is electrically connected to the switching element SW. That is, the pixel electrode PE is electrically connected to the signal line SL via the switching element SW. The common electrode CE is formed across the plurality of pixels PX. A common potential is applied to the common electrode CE.

[0031] The driver DR1 supplies a scan signal to each scan line GL. The driver DR2 supplies an image signal to each signal line SL. In the switching element SW that is electrically connected to the scan line GL to which the scan signal is supplied, the signal line SL is turned on with respect to the pixel electrode PE, and a voltage corresponding to the image signal supplied to the signal line SL is applied to the pixel electrode PE. The liquid crystal layer LC is driven by an electric field generated between the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE. More specifically, the orientation of liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer LC is changed from an initial orientation state in which no voltage is applied by the electric field generated between the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE. By this action, an image is displayed in the display region DA.

[0032] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view that represents an example of a configuration of a display device.

[0033] The display device DSP has a substrate SUB1, a substrate SUB2, and a liquid crystal layer LC held between the substrate SUB1 and the substrate SUB2.

[0034] The substrate SUB1 has a base material BA1, an insulating layer INS, an insulating layer DIE, and an alignment film AL1 in addition to the switching element SW, the pixel electrode PE, the common electrode CE, and the like. Further, the substrate SUB1 has Figure 3The illustrated scan line GL, signal line SL, driver DR1, and driver DR2, and the like. The base material BA1 is formed of a glass base material or a resin base material, or the like, having light transmittance. The base material BA1 has a main surface S1A that opposes the substrate SUB2, and a main surface S1B on the opposite side of the main surface S1A.

[0035] The switching element SW is formed on the main surface S1A side of the base material BA1, covered by the insulating layer INS. In addition, on the main surface S1B side of the base material BA1, the pixel electrode PE is formed, covered by the insulating layer DIE. Figure 3 In the illustrated example, for the convenience of explanation of the embodiments, the switching element SW is represented in a simplified manner, and the illustration of the scan line GL and signal line SL is omitted. In actuality, the insulating layer INS can also include a plurality of insulating layers. The switching element SW includes a semiconductor layer or various electrodes formed in these layers.

[0036] The pixel electrode PE is formed on the insulating layer INS, and is disposed for each of the plurality of pixels PX. The pixel electrode PE is covered by the insulating layer DIE. The common electrode CE is provided in a prescribed shape for each pixel PX, and is connected across the plurality of pixels PX. The common electrode CE is formed on the insulating layer DIE, opposing the pixel electrode PE via the insulating layer DIE. Details of the shape of the pixel electrode PE and common electrode CE are described later.

[0037] The pixel electrode PE is electrically connected to the switching element SW via a contact hole CH that penetrates the insulating layer INS. The pixel electrode PE and common electrode CE are, for example, transparent electrodes formed of a transparent conductive material such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO).

[0038] The alignment film AL1 covers the common electrode, and is in contact with the liquid crystal layer LC. The alignment film AL1 is, for example, a photo-alignment film to which a photo-alignment process has been applied.

[0039] The substrate SUB2 has a base material BA2 and an alignment film AL2. The base material BA2 is formed of a glass base material or a resin base material, or the like, having light transmittance. The base material BA2 has a main surface S2A that opposes the substrate SUB1, and a main surface S2B on the opposite side of the main surface S2A.

[0040] The alignment film AL2 is provided in contact with the base material BA2, and in contact with the liquid crystal layer LC. The alignment film AL2 is also a photo-alignment film to which a photo-alignment process has been applied, like the alignment film AL1.

[0041] Between the alignment film AL2 and the base material BA2, a color filter can also be provided between the insulating layer or adjacent switching elements SW, or a light-shielding layer can be provided opposing the switching element SW, and the like.

[0042] A polarizing plate PL1 is attached to the principal surface S1B of the substrate BA1, and a polarizing plate PL2 is attached to the principal surface S2B of the substrate BA2.

[0043] Figure 4 is a sectional view showing the configuration of a display device of a comparative example. Figure 4 The display device DSP shown has a structure in which a liquid crystal layer LC is interposed between a substrate SUB1 and a substrate SUB2. In the substrate SUB1, an array configuration layer ARY is provided on a substrate BA1. In the array configuration layer ARY, for example, the above-described switching element and the like are included.

[0044] On the array configuration layer ARY, a lower electrode LE is provided which is electrically connected to the element included in the array configuration layer ARY. The lower electrode LE is provided throughout the entire array configuration layer ARY.

[0045] On the lower electrode LE, an insulating layer DIE is provided. On the insulating layer DIE, a plurality of island-shaped upper electrodes UE are provided. The plurality of upper electrodes UE are provided, for example, for each pixel of the array configuration layer ARY. The upper electrode UE opposes the lower electrode LE through the insulating layer DIE.

[0046] The lower electrode LE is covered with an alignment film AL1.

[0047] On the substrate SUB2, a color filter layer CFL is provided in contact with the substrate BA2. An alignment film AL2 is provided in contact with the color filter layer CFL.

[0048] Between the substrate SUB1 and the substrate SUB2, that is, between the alignment film AL1 and the alignment film AL2, the liquid crystal layer LC is provided.

[0049] Figure 4 is a plan view showing the configuration of a display device of a comparative example. In Figure 3 , only the upper electrode UE and the lower electrode LE are shown for the sake of easy understanding of the explanation. Along Figure 3 the line A1-A2 shown, a sectional view of the display device DSPr is Figure 4 .

[0050] The lower electrode LE is provided across a plurality of pixels as described above, and is formed of a so-called solid-state film. The upper electrode UE has a stem portion DT extending along a first direction X and a plurality of branch portions BR extending from the stem portion DT in a direction parallel to a second direction Y, respectively.

[0051] The region in which the plurality of branch portions BR are provided is covered with an opening portion OP and a light-blocking layer which surrounds the opening portion OP. The light-blocking layer blocks regions in which liquid crystal molecules do not move and regions in which the transmittance differs.

[0052] As Figure 5 andFigure 5 As shown, the upper electrode UE and the lower electrode LE are formed in a layer different from the array configuration layer ARY. Therefore, the upper electrode UE and the lower electrode LE and the wiring and the electrode included in the array configuration layer ARY are formed in different processes.

[0053] In order to form the wiring and the electrode, a process of forming a material film, a process of forming a resist mask using a photomask, a process of removing an unnecessary portion of the material film by etching, and a process of removing the resist mask are required. If the number of layers of the electrode and the wiring increases, the number of processes thereof increases. Thus, manufacturing cost can increase.

[0054] Further, if the number of processes increases as described above, for example, in the process of removing the resist mask, it is possible that the resist mask is not completely removed but remains on the electrode or the wiring. If a portion of the resist mask remains between the electrodes, it becomes a cause of short circuit, and the reliability of the display device decreases. Thus, the number of processes is preferably small.

[0055] Figure 6 is a plan view showing an example of a schematic structure of a display device according to an embodiment. The pixels PX included in the display device DSP each have a scan line GL1 and a scan line GL2 extending along a first direction X, and a signal line SL (signal line SL1, signal line SL2, and signal line SL3 from the left side of the drawing) extending along a second direction Y.

[0056] A portion of the signal line SL protrudes in the first direction X and the second direction Y, and constitutes a source electrode SE. A drain electrode DE is provided opposite to the source electrode SE. The drain electrode DE is formed integrally with the pixel electrode PE, and is provided in the same layer as the source electrode SE.

[0057] In the present embodiment, a wiring or the like formed of the same material and the same process is referred to as a wiring or the like provided in the same layer.

[0058] The pixel electrode PE has a trunk portion PT1 and a trunk portion PT2 extending along the first direction X, a plurality of branch portions PR1 extending from the trunk portion PT1 along the second direction Y, and a plurality of branch portions PR2 extending from the trunk portion PT2 along a direction opposite to the second direction Y. The trunk portions PT1 and PT2 are referred to as a trunk portion PT in a case where it is not necessary to distinguish between the trunk portions PT1 and PT2. The branch portions PR1 and PR2 are referred to as a branch portion PR in a case where it is not necessary to distinguish between the branch portions PR1 and PR2. The branch portions BR1 and BR2 farthest from the signal line SL are connected to each other, and constitute a connection wiring PN. The connection wiring PN connects the trunk portions PT1 and PT2.

[0059] The stem portion CT of the common electrode CE extends along the first direction X between the signal line SL1 and the signal line SL2. The plurality of branch portions CR1 extend from the stem portion CT in a direction opposite to the second direction Y. The plurality of branch portions CR2 extend from the stem portion CT along the second direction Y. The branch portions CR1 and the branch portions PR1 are arranged so as to be displaced from each other along the first direction X. The branch portions CR2 and the branch portions PR2 are arranged so as to be displaced from each other along the first direction X. The branch portions CR1 and the branch portions CR2 are referred to as branch portions CR without distinction.

[0060] In other words, the stem portions PT and the stem portions CT are arranged so as to be parallel to each other. The branch portions PR and the branch portions CR are arranged so as to be parallel to each other. The directions in which the stem portions PT and the stem portions CT extend and the directions in which the branch portions PR and the branch portions CR extend cross each other.

[0061] The leading end of the branch portion PR1 is set as an end portion EP1, and the boundary between the stem portion PT1 and the branch portion PR1 is set as a base portion BP1. The leading end of the branch portion PR2 is set as an end portion EP2, and the boundary between the stem portion PT2 and the branch portion PR2 is set as a base portion BP2. The leading end of the branch portion CR1 is set as an end portion EC1, and the boundary between the stem portion CT and the branch portion CR1 is set as a base portion BC1. The leading end of the branch portion CR2 is set as an end portion EC2, and the boundary between the stem portion CT and the branch portion CR2 is set as a base portion BC2.

[0062] The end portions EP1 and the end portions EP2 are referred to as end portions EP without distinction. The end portions EC1 and the end portions EC2 are referred to as end portions EC without distinction. The base portions BP1 and the base portions BP2 are referred to as base portions BP without distinction. The base portions BC1 and the base portions BC2 are referred to as base portions BC without distinction.

[0063] The branch portions PR and the branch portions CR each have a shape in which the leading end is tapered. If the length with respect to the direction in which the branch portions PR and the branch portions CR extend is set as a width, the width of the leading end of each of the branch portions PR and the branch portions CR is thinner than the width of the base portion of each. The width of each of the branch portions PR and the branch portions CR is shorter as it extends.

[0064] The light-shielding layer is provided in the region surrounded by the signal line SL and the adjacent signal line SL and by the stem portion CT and the scan line GL1 except for the opening portion OP1. The light-shielding layer is provided in the region surrounded by the signal line SL and the adjacent signal line SL and by the stem portion CT and the scan line GL2 except for the opening portion OP2. The region covered by the light-shielding layer does not transmit light, and the outside of the solid line representing the opening portion OP1 and the opening portion OP2 is surrounded by the light-shielding layer, and only the inside of the solid line representing the opening portion OP1 and the opening portion OP2 transmits light. The opening portion OP1 and the opening portion OP2 are referred to as opening portions OP without distinction.

[0065] The opening OP1 overlaps with the area MP1 in the branch PR1, excluding the area near the end EP1 and the area near the base BP1, and the area MC1 in the branch CR1, excluding the area near the end EC1 and the area near the base BC1.

[0066] The opening OP2 overlaps with the area MP2 of the branch PR2, excluding the area near the end EP2 and the area near the base BP2, and the area MC2 of the branch CR2, excluding the area near the end EC2 and the area near the base BC2.

[0067] The ends EP1 of branch PR1, EP2 of branch PR2, EC1 of branch CR1, and EC2 of branch CR2 are covered by a light-shielding layer. A portion of branch BR, closest to signal line SL, and a portion of connecting wiring PN are also covered by a light-shielding layer. Since the orientation of liquid crystal molecules is unstable around ends EC1, EC2, EP1, and EP2, light shielding is preferable. Details regarding the orientation of liquid crystal molecules will be described later.

[0068] exist Figure 6 In the structure shown, the pixel electrode PE and the drain electrode DE are integrally formed in the same layer as the signal line SL. That is, the signal line SL, the drain electrode DE, and the pixel electrode PE can be formed using a single photomask. By performing the aforementioned series of photomask-using processes once, the signal line SL, the drain electrode DE, and the pixel electrode PE can be formed. Compared to forming the signal line SL, the drain electrode DE, and the pixel electrode PE in different processes, the number of photomask-using processes can be reduced. This results in a reduction in the number of manufacturing processes and improved reliability.

[0069] Figure 6 This is a top view illustrating an example of the schematic structure of the display device according to an embodiment. Figure 6 The text shows a portion of the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE, which are arranged around the opening OP2.

[0070] An electric field EF, indicated by arrows, is generated around the end EC2 of branch CR2, and around the base BP2 of the adjacent branch PR2 in the first direction X, and between the end EP2 of the main branch PT2. The orientation direction of the liquid crystal molecules LM when a voltage is applied is determined by the electric field EF.

[0071] exist Figure 7In the case shown in FIG. 6, the direction of the electric field EF (the direction in which the electric lines of force are generated) rotates to the right as the end portion EC2 of the branch portion CR2 is approached. By this rotation, the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules LM stabilizes along the arc of the imaginary circle.

[0072] In Figure 7 the case shown in FIG. 6, the end portion EPT2 of the stem portion PT2 extends in a direction opposite to the first direction X beyond the hypotenuse of the branch portion PR2. The use Figure 7 of the stem portion PT2 is explained.

[0073] Figure 6 is a plan view showing an example of the schematic structure of the display device according to the embodiment. As described above, the end portion EPT2 of the stem portion PT2 coincides with the hypotenuse LP2 of the branch portion BR2. In this case, the direction of the electric field EF does not follow the imaginary circle and does not rotate. Further, the distance between the end portion EC2 of the branch portion CR2 and the end portion EPT2 (the hypotenuse LP2) is longer than the distance between the hypotenuse LC2 of the branch portion CR2 and the hypotenuse LP2 of the branch portion PR2, for example. The electric field EF generated between the end portion EC2 and the end portion EPT2 is likely to be weaker than in other portions. For this reason, there is a concern that Figure 8 the stability of the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules LM shown in FIG. 6 is lower than that shown in FIG. 5. Figure 8

[0074] In order to improve the stability of the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules LM, the length of the branch portion CR2 is elongated and the end portion EC2 is disposed adjacent to the end portion EPT2 which is a part of the hypotenuse LP2. Figure 8 is a plan view showing an example of the schematic structure of the display device according to the embodiment. In Figure 9 the structure shown in FIG. 7, the hypotenuse LC2 is provided adjacent to the end portion EPT2. The distance between the end portion EPT2 and the hypotenuse LC2 is substantially the same as the distance between the hypotenuse LC2 and the hypotenuse LP2, for example. Thus, the electric field EF generated between the end portion EPT2 and the hypotenuse LC2 is equivalent to that in other portions. Thus, Figure 9 the stability of the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules LM shown in FIG. 7 is improved.

[0075] Figure 6 is a plan view showing another structure example of the display device according to the embodiment. In Figure 9 the structure example shown in FIG. 8, the branch portion CR of the common electrode CE is in a shape in which the tip is thickened, unlike the structure example shown in FIG. 7. Figure 9

[0076] In Figure 10 ​​The length (width) of the base portion BP2 along the first direction X is set to a width wbp2, and the length (width) of the end portion EP2 along the first direction X is set to a width wep2 in the branch portion PR2. The length (width) of the base portion BC2 along the first direction X is set to a width wbc2, and the length (width) of the end portion EC2 along the first direction X is set to a width wec2 in the branch portion CR2.

[0077] The width wbp2 is longer than the width wep2. That is, the branch portion BR2 is tapered as it extends in the direction opposite to the second direction Y. The branch portion BR2 has a shape in which the tip is tapered.

[0078] On the other hand, the width wbc2 is shorter than the width wec2. That is, the branch portion CR2 is widened as it extends in the second direction Y. The branch portion CR2 has a shape in which the tip is widened.

[0079] In addition, in the structure example shown in FIG. 1, the branch portion CR of the common electrode CE is tapered as it extends in the second direction Y, and the branch portion PR of the pixel electrode PE is tapered as it extends in the direction opposite to the second direction Y. However, the present embodiment is not limited to this. Instead of the branch portion CR of the common electrode CE, the branch portion PR of the pixel electrode PE can be tapered as it extends in the second direction Y. Alternatively, instead of the branch portion PR of the pixel electrode PE, the branch portion CR of the common electrode CE can be tapered as it extends in the direction opposite to the second direction Y. Figure 10

[0080] Figure 6 is a plan view showing another structure example of the display device according to the embodiment. In the structure example shown in FIG. 2, the branch portion CR of the common electrode CE and the branch portion PR of the pixel electrode PE have constant widths, unlike the structure example shown in FIG. 1. Figure 10 Figure 9 In the structure example shown in FIG. 2, the branch portion CR of the common electrode CE and the branch portion PR of the pixel electrode PE have constant widths, unlike the structure example shown in FIG. 1.

[0081] In the structure example shown in FIG. 2, the branch portion CR of the common electrode CE and the branch portion PR of the pixel electrode PE have constant widths, unlike the structure example shown in FIG. 1. Figure 6 to Figure 10 Figure 11 The width wbp2 is longer than the width wep2. That is, the branch portion BR2 is tapered as it extends in the direction opposite to the second direction Y. The branch portion BR2 has a shape in which the tip is tapered.

[0082] The width wbp2 is longer than the width wep2. That is, the branch portion BR2 is tapered as it extends in the direction opposite to the second direction Y. The branch portion BR2 has a shape in which the tip is tapered.

[0083] The width wbp2 is longer than the width wep2. That is, the branch portion BR2 is tapered as it extends in the direction opposite to the second direction Y. The branch portion BR2 has a shape in which the tip is tapered.

[0084] In addition, in the structure example shown in FIG. 1, the branch portion CR of the common electrode CE is tapered as it extends in the second direction Y, and the branch portion PR of the pixel electrode PE is tapered as it extends in the direction opposite to the second direction Y. However, the present embodiment is not limited to this. Instead of the branch portion CR of the common electrode CE, the branch portion PR of the pixel electrode PE can be tapered as it extends in the second direction Y. Alternatively, instead of the branch portion PR of the pixel electrode PE, the branch portion CR of the common electrode CE can be tapered as it extends in the direction opposite to the second direction Y. Figure 11 ​​​The configuration and shape of the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE around the opening portion OP2 are described, but the present embodiment is not limited thereto. The configuration and shape of the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE around the opening portion OP1 can be determined based on the above description as well. However, the configuration and shape of the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE around the opening portion OP1 can also be linearly symmetrical to those of the opening portion OP2 with respect to the first direction X. That is, the shape and configuration of the electrodes around the opening portion OP1 can also be upside down to those of the electrodes around the opening portion OP2.

[0085] According to the present embodiment, the number of processes using a photomask can be reduced. Thus, the number of manufacturing processes can be reduced, and the reliability can be improved.

[0086] <Structure Example 1>

[0087] Figure 5 is a plan view of another structure example of a display device according to the present embodiment. In Figure 5 the structure example shown in Figure 5 , the branched portion extends along the first direction X, unlike the structure example shown in

[0088] The scan lines GL1 and GL2 and the signal lines SL and the source electrodes SE are the same as Figure 5 , so the description of Figure 11 is referred to, and the description thereof is omitted.

[0089] The pixel electrode PE has a trunk portion PT1 and a trunk portion PT2 extending along the second direction Y, a plurality of branched portions PR1 extending from the trunk portion PT1 along the first direction X, and a plurality of branched portions PR2 extending from the trunk portion PT2 along a direction opposite to the first direction X. The branched portion PR1 and the branched portion PR2 closest to the scan line GL1 are connected to each other, and constitute a connection wiring PN.

[0090] The common wiring CL is provided adjacent to the scan line GL2. The common wiring CL extends along the first direction X across a plurality of pixels PX. The trunk portion CT extends from the common wiring CL in a direction opposite to the second direction Y for each pixel PX. The plurality of branched portions CR1 extend from the trunk portion CT along a direction opposite to the first direction X. The plurality of branched portions CR2 extend from the trunk portion CT along the first direction X. The branched portions CR1 and the branched portions PR1 are arranged to be staggered with respect to each other along the second direction Y. The branched portions CR2 and the branched portions PR2 are arranged to be staggered with respect to each other along the second direction Y.

[0091] Figure 5 ​Similarly, let the front end of the branch portion PR1 be an end portion EP1, and let the boundary of the trunk portion PT1 and the branch portion PR1 be a base portion BP1. Let the front end of the branch portion PR2 be an end portion EP2, and let the boundary of the trunk portion PT2 and the branch portion PR2 be a base portion BP2. Let the front end of the branch portion CR1 be an end portion EC1, and let the boundary of the trunk portion CT and the branch portion CR1 be a base portion BC1. Let the front end of the branch portion CR2 be an end portion EC2, and let the boundary of the trunk portion CT and the branch portion CR2 be a base portion BC2.

[0092] The light-blocking layer is provided in the region surrounded by the trunk portion PT1 and the trunk portion CT, between the scan line GL1 and the scan line GL2, except for the opening portion OP1. The light-blocking layer is provided in the region surrounded by the trunk portion PT2 and the trunk portion CT, between the scan line GL1 and the scan line GL2, except for the opening portion OP2. The region covered by the light-blocking layer does not transmit light, and only the opening portion OP1 and the opening portion OP2 transmit light.

[0093] The opening portion OP1 overlaps the region MP1 in the branch portion PR1, except for the region near the end portion EP1 and the region near the base portion BP1, and the region MC1 in the branch portion CR1, except for the region near the end portion EC1 and the region near the base portion BC1.

[0094] The opening portion OP2 overlaps the region MP2 in the branch portion PR2, except for the region near the end portion EP2 and the region near the base portion BP2, and the region MC2 in the branch portion CR2, except for the region near the end portion EC2 and the region near the base portion BC2.

[0095] The end portion EP1 of the branch portion PR1, the end portion EP2 of the branch portion PR2, the end portion EC1 of the branch portion CR1, and the end portion EC2 of the branch portion CR2 are covered by the light-blocking layer. A part of the branch portion BR closest to the common wiring CL and a part of the branch portion CR closest to the common wiring CL are also covered by the light-blocking layer.

[0096] As shown in FIG. 1, in a structure in which the branch portion BR and the branch portion CR extend in a direction parallel to the first direction X, the opening portion OP1 overlaps the region MP1 in the branch portion PR1, except for the region near the end portion EP1 and the region near the base portion BP1, and the region MC1 in the branch portion CR1, except for the region near the end portion EC1 and the region near the base portion BC1. Figure 12 As shown in FIG. 1, in a structure in which the branch portion BR and the branch portion CR extend in a direction parallel to the first direction X, the opening portion OP1 overlaps the region MP1 in the branch portion PR1, except for the region near the end portion EP1 and the region near the base portion BP1, and the region MC1 in the branch portion CR1, except for the region near the end portion EC1 and the region near the base portion BC1. Figure 12 Similarly, the number of processes using a photomask can be reduced. Thus, the number of manufacturing processes can be reduced, and reliability can be improved.

[0097] Figure 11 is a plan view showing another structural example of a display device according to an embodiment. In the structural example shown in FIG. 2, the common electrode CE and the pixel electrode PE overlap each other in plan view. Figure 13 As shown in FIG. 2, in a structure in which the branch portion BR and the branch portion CR extend in a direction parallel to the first direction X, the opening portion OP1 overlaps the region MP1 in the branch portion PR1, except for the region near the end portion EP1 and the region near the base portion BP1, and the region MC1 in the branch portion CR1, except for the region near the end portion EC1 and the region near the base portion BC1. Figure 12 As shown in FIG. 2, in a structure in which the branch portion BR and the branch portion CR extend in a direction parallel to the first direction X, the opening portion OP1 overlaps the region MP1 in the branch portion PR1, except for the region near the end portion EP1 and the region near the base portion BP1, and the region MC1 in the branch portion CR1, except for the region near the end portion EC1 and the region near the base portion BC1.

[0098] Figure 14 is a plan view of the common electrode CE among the constituent elements of the display device shown in Figure 12 Figure 12 is a plan view of the signal line SL, the drain electrode DE, and the pixel electrode PE among the constituent elements of the display device shown in Figure 5

[0099] In Figure 5 , the same as in Figure 12 , so the description of Figure 12 is referred to, and the description thereof is omitted.

[0100] The pixel electrode PE has a stem portion PT1 and a stem portion PT2 extending along the second direction Y, a plurality of branch portions PR1 extending from the stem portion PT1 along the first direction X, and a plurality of branch portions PR2 extending from the stem portion PT2 along a direction opposite to the first direction X. The branch portion BR1 and the branch portion BR2 closest to the scan line GL1 are connected to each other, and constitute a connection wiring PN.

[0101] The stem portion PT1 is provided adjacent to the signal line SL. The stem portion PT2 is provided adjacent to the signal line SL of the adjacent pixel PX.

[0102] In ​ , a common wiring CL is provided adjacent to the scan line GL1 and overlaps the connection wiring PN. The common wiring CL extends along the first direction X. The common wiring CL extends along the first direction X across a plurality of pixels PX. The stem portion CT extends from the common wiring CL toward a direction opposite to the second direction Y, per pixel PX. A plurality of branch portions CR1 extend from the stem portion CT along a direction opposite to the first direction X. A plurality of branch portions CR2 extend from the stem portion CT along the first direction X. The branch portions CR1 and the branch portions PR1 are arranged to be displaced from each other along the second direction Y. The branch portions CR2 and the branch portions PR2 are arranged to be displaced from each other along the second direction Y.

[0103] A protruding portion CS1 is provided adjacent to the signal line SL from the common wiring CL and overlaps the stem portion PT1. A protruding portion CS2 is provided adjacent to the signal line SL of the adjacent pixel PX from the common wiring CL and overlaps the stem portion PT2. The protruding portion CS1 and the protruding portion CS2 extend toward a direction opposite to the second direction Y. The protruding portion CS1 and the protruding portion CS2 are referred to as a protruding portion CS in a case where no particular distinction is required.

[0104] In ​ ​​In the display device DSP shown, a storage capacitor can be formed in a region where the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE overlap, that is, a region where the connection wiring PN and the common wiring CL overlap, a region where the trunk portion PT1 and the protruding portion CS1 overlap, and a region where the trunk portion PT2 and the protruding portion CS2 overlap.

[0105] In the present structural example, the same effects as those of the embodiment are also obtained.

[0106] In the present disclosure, the branch portion PR and the branch portion CR are referred to as a first branch portion and a second branch portion, respectively. The trunk portion PT and the trunk portion CT are referred to as a first trunk portion and a second trunk portion, respectively. The base portion BP and the base portion BC are referred to as a first base portion and a second base portion, respectively. The end portion EP and the end portion EC are referred to as a first end portion and a second end portion, respectively.

[0107] Several embodiments of the present application have been described above, but these embodiments are presented as examples only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the application. These new embodiments can be implemented in other various forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the application. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope or spirit of the application, and are included in the scope of the application and its equivalents as recited in the claims.

Claims

1. A display device, wherein, Possessing: a plurality of scan lines extending along a first direction; a plurality of signal lines extending along a second direction intersecting the first direction; a plurality of pixels provided at intersections of the plurality of scan lines and the plurality of signal lines; a pixel electrode provided for each of the plurality of pixels, formed in the same layer as the signal lines; and a common electrode provided across the plurality of pixels, the pixel electrode has a first stem portion and a plurality of first branch portions extending from the first stem portion, the common electrode has a second stem portion and a plurality of second branch portions extending from the second stem portion, each of the plurality of first branch portions and each of the plurality of second branch portions are arranged so as to be staggered with respect to each other, the signal lines and the pixel electrode are formed of the same material, a boundary between the first branch portion and the first stem portion is a first base portion, and a boundary between the second branch portion and the first stem portion is a second base portion, a first tip end of the first branch portion and the first base portion, and a second tip end of the second branch portion and the second base portion, are covered by a light shielding layer.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the first stem portion and the second stem portion extend along the second direction, the plurality of first branch portions and the plurality of second branch portions extend along the first direction.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the first stem portion and the second stem portion extend along the first direction, the plurality of first branch portions and the plurality of second branch portions extend along the second direction.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of first branch portions and each of the plurality of second branch portions have a pointed tip shape.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein one of each of the plurality of first branch portions or each of the plurality of second branch portions has a pointed tip shape, and the other has a blunt tip shape.

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of first branch portions and each of the plurality of second branch portions have a rectangular shape.

7. The display device according to claim 1, wherein a portion of the pixel electrode and a portion of the common electrode overlap, forming a storage capacitor.

8. The display device according to claim 7, wherein the pixel electrode has a connection wiring connecting two of the first branch portions, the common electrode has a common wiring, the second stem portion, the second branch portions, and a protruding portion protruding from the common wiring, the first stem portion of the pixel electrode and the protruding portion, and the connection wiring and the common wiring overlap, forming the storage capacitor. ​

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