Display panel, driving method, and display device

Abstract

This invention discloses a display panel, driving method, and display device. The display panel includes a dimming box and a display liquid crystal cell. The dimming box includes a first substrate, a second substrate, and a first liquid crystal layer. The first substrate is provided with a first viewing angle control electrode and a refractive layer. The second substrate is provided with a second viewing angle control electrode and a third viewing angle control electrode that cooperate with the first viewing angle control electrode. In narrow viewing angle mode, the refractive index of the entire first liquid crystal layer is equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer. In wide viewing angle mode, by applying corresponding viewing angle control voltages to the first, second, and third viewing angle control electrodes, the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer are in a disordered and scattered state, and together with the refractive layer, they scatter light. A wide viewing angle effect with a relatively wide viewing angle range can be achieved even with a single dimming box. Moreover, the dimming box does not need to be used in conjunction with a polarizer, reducing the module thickness and the number of polarizers, thereby increasing light transmittance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of display technology, and in particular to a display panel and driving method, and a display device. Background Technology

[0002] With the continuous advancement of LCD technology, the viewing angle of monitors has expanded from around 120° to over 160°. While enjoying the visual experience brought by a wider viewing angle, people also want to effectively protect trade secrets and personal privacy to avoid business losses or embarrassment caused by the leakage of screen information. Therefore, in addition to the need for a wide viewing angle, many situations also require display devices to have the function of switching between wide and narrow viewing angles.

[0003] like Figure 1 As shown, the prior art utilizes a dimming box 10 and a display liquid crystal cell 20 to achieve a dual-cell structure for switching between wide and narrow viewing angles. The display liquid crystal cell 20 is used for normal image display, while the dimming box 10 controls the viewing angle switching. The dimming box 10 includes a first substrate 11, a second substrate 12, and a first liquid crystal layer 13 between the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12. A first polarizer 31 is disposed between the dimming box 10 and the display liquid crystal cell 20. A second polarizer 32 is disposed on the side of the display liquid crystal cell 20 away from the dimming box 10, and a third polarizer 33 is disposed on the side of the dimming box 10 away from the display liquid crystal cell 20. The transmission axes of the first polarizer 31 and the second polarizer 32 are perpendicular to each other, and the transmission axes of the first polarizer 31 and the third polarizer 33 are parallel to each other. The alignment direction of the first liquid crystal layer 13 is parallel to the transmission axes of the first polarizer 31 and the third polarizer 33. The first substrate 11 has a first viewing angle control electrode 111, and the second substrate 12 has a second viewing angle control electrode 121. There is no voltage difference between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the second viewing angle control electrode 121. When the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 remain in their initial flat state, the display panel presents a wide viewing angle mode. Alternatively, a large voltage difference (e.g., 5V) can be applied between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the second viewing angle control electrode 121, causing the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 to deflect into a vertical state, thus presenting another wide viewing angle mode. Figure 1As shown, a suitable voltage difference (e.g., 2V) is applied between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the second viewing angle control electrode 121, causing the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 to deflect into a tilted straight state, thus enabling the display panel to achieve a narrow viewing angle mode with a wide viewing angle. The voltage across the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the second viewing angle control electrode 121 allows switching between wide and narrow viewing angles. However, this dimming box 10 has poor light collection performance and typically requires a light-collecting backlight module 40. The light-collecting backlight module 40 usually consists of a light source 41, a brightness enhancement film 42, and a privacy screen protector 43, which is costly and also results in a poor wide viewing angle performance of the display panel.

[0004] To address the poor light-gathering effect of monochromatic light boxes while avoiding impacting wide-viewing angles. For example... Figure 2 As shown, another existing technology employs two dimming boxes 10, thus achieving a good narrow viewing angle effect even with a common diffused backlight module 40, without affecting the wide viewing angle effect. Specifically, two dimming boxes 20 and a fourth polarizer 34 are added to the display liquid crystal cell 20. The transmission axes of the first polarizer 31, the third polarizer 33, and the fourth polarizer 34 are parallel to each other. The alignment directions of the first liquid crystal layer 13 in the two dimming boxes 20 are parallel to each other and parallel to the transmission axes of the first polarizer 31, the third polarizer 33, and the fourth polarizer 34. The narrow viewing angle effect of the display panel is achieved by superimposing the narrow viewing angle effects of the two dimming boxes 10, resulting in better light collection at narrow viewing angles. The brightness of a single dimming box at a 45° left-right angle and a center brightness of 9.85% is achieved, while the brightness of the two dimming boxes combined at a 45° left-right angle and a center brightness of 0.97% is achieved, resulting in better light collection at narrow viewing angles. Table 1 below compares the wide and narrow viewing angle effects of a single-dimming box and a dual-dimming box. As can be seen from Table 1, the narrow viewing angle effect of the dual-dimming box is comparable to that of the single-dimming box, but it does not require the use of a light-gathering backlight module 40; however, the wide viewing angle effect of the dual-dimming box is better than that of the single-dimming box.

[0005]

[0006] Technical issues

[0007] Display panels using dual dimming boxes have a three-box structure, requiring high assembly standards and resulting in thick modules. Furthermore, they necessitate four polarizers, leading to a large number of polarizers and poor light transmittance. Therefore, using dual dimming boxes is not the best choice.

[0008] Technical solutions

[0009] In order to overcome the shortcomings and deficiencies of the prior art, the present invention aims to provide a display panel and driving method, and a display device, so as to solve the problem of improving the wide viewing angle effect without increasing the module thickness and the number of polarizers in the prior art.

[0010] The objective of this invention is achieved through the following technical solution:

[0011] The present invention provides a display panel, including a dimming box and a display liquid crystal box stacked on top of each other, a first polarizer is provided between the dimming box and the display liquid crystal box, and a second polarizer is provided on the side of the display liquid crystal box away from the dimming box, wherein the light transmission axis of the first polarizer and the light transmission axis of the second polarizer are perpendicular to each other.

[0012] The dimming box includes a first substrate, a second substrate disposed opposite to the first substrate, and a first liquid crystal layer disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. The first substrate has a first viewing angle control electrode and a refractive layer on the side facing the first liquid crystal layer. The second substrate has a second viewing angle control electrode and a third viewing angle control electrode that cooperate with the first viewing angle control electrode on the side facing the first liquid crystal layer. The second viewing angle control electrode includes a plurality of first electrode strips, and the third viewing angle control electrode includes a plurality of second electrode strips. The projections of the first electrode strips and the second electrode strips on the second substrate are parallel to each other and alternately arranged.

[0013] In narrow viewing angle mode, the refractive index of the entire first liquid crystal layer is equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer; in wide viewing angle mode, there is a first pressure difference between the first viewing angle control electrode and the second viewing angle control electrode, a second pressure difference between the first viewing angle control electrode and the third viewing angle control electrode, and a third pressure difference between the second viewing angle control electrode and the third viewing angle control electrode. The first pressure difference and the second pressure difference are both greater than a first preset value, and the third pressure difference is greater than or equal to a second preset value, so that the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer are in a disordered and scattered state and together with the refractive layer scatter light.

[0014] Furthermore, a first alignment layer is provided on the side of the first substrate facing the first liquid crystal layer, the first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is between 0 and 90°, and the first angle between the projection of the first alignment direction of the first alignment layer on the second substrate and the first electrode strip is between 0 and 20°.

[0015] The second substrate has a second alignment layer on the side facing the first liquid crystal layer. The second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is between 0 and 90°. The second angle between the projection of the second alignment direction of the second alignment layer onto the second substrate and the first electrode strip is between 0 and 20°.

[0016] Furthermore, the projection of the first alignment direction of the first alignment layer onto the second substrate is parallel to the projection of the second alignment direction of the second alignment layer onto the second substrate.

[0017] Furthermore, there is an angle between the projection of the first alignment direction of the first alignment layer onto the second substrate and the projection of the second alignment direction of the second alignment layer onto the second substrate.

[0018] Furthermore, the first liquid crystal layer uses positive liquid crystal molecules, the first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is between 0 and 7°, and the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is between 0 and 7°.

[0019] Furthermore, the first liquid crystal layer uses positive liquid crystal molecules, the first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is between 83° and 90°, and the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is between 83° and 90°.

[0020] Furthermore, the first liquid crystal layer uses positive or negative liquid crystal molecules, the first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is between 83° and 90°, and the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is between 0° and 7°.

[0021] Furthermore, the refractive layer has a planar structure on the side facing the first liquid crystal layer; the refractive layer has multiple protruding structures on the side facing the first liquid crystal layer.

[0022] This application also provides a driving method for a display panel, used to drive the display panel as described above, the driving method comprising:

[0023] A first voltage signal is applied to the first view control electrode, a second voltage signal is applied to the second view control electrode, and a third voltage signal is applied to the third view control electrode;

[0024] In narrow viewing angle mode, the refractive index of the entire first liquid crystal layer is controlled to be equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer; in wide viewing angle mode, there is a first voltage difference between the first voltage signal and the second voltage signal, a second voltage difference between the first voltage signal and the third voltage signal, and a third voltage difference between the second voltage signal and the third voltage signal. At least one of the first voltage difference and the second voltage difference is greater than a first preset value, and the third voltage difference is greater than or equal to a second preset value, so that the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer are in a disordered and scattered state and together with the refractive layer scatter light.

[0025] Furthermore, the first liquid crystal layer uses positive liquid crystal molecules, the first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is between 0 and 7°, the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is between 0 and 7°, and the refractive index of the refractive layer is equal to the refractive index of the first liquid crystal layer in this state;

[0026] The driving method includes: in a narrow viewing angle mode, the first voltage signal, the second voltage signal, and the third voltage signal are all DC common voltage signals, so that the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer maintain their initial posture and are equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer; in a wide viewing angle mode, one of the first pressure difference and the second pressure difference is greater than a first preset value, and the other is less than a fourth preset value.

[0027] Furthermore, the first liquid crystal layer uses positive liquid crystal molecules, the first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is between 83° and 90°, the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is between 83° and 90°, and the refractive index of the refractive layer is equal to the refractive index of the first liquid crystal layer in this state.

[0028] The driving method includes: in narrow viewing angle mode, the first voltage signal, the second voltage signal, and the third voltage signal are all DC common voltage signals, so that the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer maintain their initial posture and are equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer; in wide viewing angle mode, the first voltage difference and the second voltage difference are both greater than a first preset value.

[0029] Furthermore, the first liquid crystal layer uses positive liquid crystal molecules, the first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is between 83° and 90°, the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is between 0° and 7°, and the refractive index of the refractive layer is equal to the refractive index of the first liquid crystal layer when standing.

[0030] The driving method includes: in a narrow viewing angle mode, there is a fourth voltage difference between the first voltage signal and the second voltage signal, and between the first voltage signal and the third voltage signal, wherein the fourth voltage difference is greater than or equal to a third preset value, so that the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer are in an upright posture; in a wide viewing angle mode, both the first voltage difference and the second voltage difference are greater than a first preset value.

[0031] Furthermore, the first liquid crystal layer uses negative liquid crystal molecules, the first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is between 83° and 90°, the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is between 0° and 7°, and the refractive index of the refractive layer is equal to the refractive index of the first liquid crystal layer when it is in a flat position.

[0032] The driving method includes: in a narrow viewing angle mode, there is a fourth voltage difference between the first voltage signal and the second voltage signal, and between the first voltage signal and the third voltage signal, wherein the fourth voltage difference is greater than or equal to a third preset value, so that the negative liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer are in a flat position; in a wide viewing angle mode, both the first voltage difference and the second voltage difference are greater than a first preset value.

[0033] Furthermore, in the wide-viewing-angle mode, the first voltage signal is a DC common voltage signal, the second voltage signal is a first AC voltage signal that fluctuates up and down around the DC common voltage signal, and the third voltage signal is a second AC voltage signal that fluctuates up and down around the DC common voltage signal. The first AC voltage signal and the second AC voltage signal have the same period.

[0034] At the same time, the polarities of the first AC voltage signal and the second AC voltage signal are opposite; or, the phases of the first AC voltage signal and the second AC voltage signal are offset by 10% to 25% of their periods.

[0035] This application also provides a display device, including the display panel described above.

[0036] Beneficial effects

[0037] In narrow viewing angle mode, the refractive index of the entire first liquid crystal layer is controlled to be equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer. When light enters the refractive layer from the first liquid crystal layer, no refraction occurs, resulting in a small viewing angle range. In wide viewing angle mode, by applying corresponding viewing angle control voltages to the first, second, and third viewing angle control electrodes, the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer are made to be in a disordered and scattered state. At this time, the refractive indices of positive liquid crystal molecules at different tilt angles are different, thus forming different refractive index differences with the refractive layer. Together with the refractive layer, they scatter light, achieving a larger viewing angle range. Therefore, this application can achieve a wide viewing angle effect with a relatively wide viewing angle range even when using a single dimming box. Moreover, the dimming box does not need to be used in conjunction with a polarizer, which greatly reduces the module thickness and the number of polarizers, thereby increasing the light transmittance. Attached Figure Description

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first prior art display device at a narrow viewing angle.

[0039] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the display device in the second type of prior art at a wide viewing angle.

[0040] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the display device in a narrow viewing angle according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the planar structure of the second-view control electrode and the third-view control electrode in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 5 This is a waveform diagram of the viewing angle control signal of the display device in a narrow viewing angle according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the display device in Embodiment 1 of the present invention at a wide viewing angle.

[0044] Figure 7 This is one of the waveform diagrams of the viewing angle control signal of the display device in a wide viewing angle in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 8 This is the second waveform diagram of the viewing angle control signal of the display device in the first embodiment of the present invention when the viewing angle is wide.

[0046] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the display device in a narrow viewing angle according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the planar structure of the first alignment direction and the second alignment direction in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the display device in its initial state according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the display device in a narrow viewing angle according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 13 This is a waveform diagram of the viewing angle control signal of the display device in the third embodiment of the present invention when the viewing angle is narrow.

[0051] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the display device in the fourth embodiment of the present invention at a narrow viewing angle.

[0052] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the display device in its initial state according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the display device in embodiment five of the present invention at a narrow viewing angle.

[0054] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the display device in Embodiment 5 of the present invention at a wide viewing angle.

[0055] Figure 18 This is another waveform diagram of the viewing angle control signal of the display device in the fifth embodiment of the present invention when the viewing angle is wide.

[0056] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the display device in a narrow viewing angle according to Embodiment Six of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of the display device in its initial state in Embodiment 7 of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 21 This is one of the schematic diagrams of the planar structure of the display device in this invention.

[0059] Figure 22 This is the second schematic diagram of the planar structure of the display device in this invention.

[0060] Embodiments of the present invention

[0061] To further illustrate the technical means and effects adopted by the present invention to achieve the intended purpose, the following detailed description, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and preferred embodiments, provides a detailed explanation of the specific implementation methods, structures, features, and effects of the display panel and driving method, and display device proposed according to the present invention:

[0062] [Example 1]

[0063] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the display device in a narrow viewing angle according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the planar structure of the second-view control electrode and the third-view control electrode in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0064] like Figure 3 Figure 5 As shown in Embodiment 1 of the present invention, a display panel includes a dimming box 10 and a display liquid crystal cell 20 stacked on top of each other. In this embodiment, there is one dimming box 10 and one display liquid crystal cell 20. The dimming box 10 is located below the display liquid crystal cell 20, that is, between the display liquid crystal cell 20 and the backlight module 40. The dimming box 10 is used to control the viewing angle of the display device, and the display liquid crystal cell 20 is used to control the display device to display a normal image. Of course, the dimming box 10 can also be located above the display liquid crystal cell 20, that is, on the light-emitting side of the display liquid crystal cell 20.

[0065] The dimming box 10 and the display liquid crystal cell 20 are provided with a first polarizer 31, and the display liquid crystal cell 20 is provided with a second polarizer 32 on the side away from the dimming box 10. The light transmission axis of the first polarizer 31 and the light transmission axis of the second polarizer 32 are perpendicular to each other. The side of the dimming box 10 away from the display liquid crystal cell 20 has no polarizer or other polarizing film.

[0066] The dimming box 10 includes a first substrate 11, a second substrate 12 disposed opposite to the first substrate 11, and a first liquid crystal layer 13 disposed between the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12. The first substrate 11 has a first viewing angle control electrode 111 and a refractive layer 112 on the side facing the first liquid crystal layer 13. The second substrate 12 has a second viewing angle control electrode 121 and a third viewing angle control electrode 122 cooperating with the first viewing angle control electrode 111 on the side facing the first liquid crystal layer 13. The second viewing angle control electrode 121 includes a plurality of first electrode strips 121a, and the third viewing angle control electrode 122 includes a plurality of second electrode strips 122a. The projections of the first electrode strips 121a and the second electrode strips 122a on the second substrate 12 are parallel to each other and alternately arranged. In this embodiment, the first viewing angle control electrode 111 is a planar electrode that covers the entire surface of the first substrate 11, and the second viewing angle control electrode 121 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122 are comb-shaped electrodes that cover the entire surface of the second substrate 12, that is, the second viewing angle control electrode 121 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122 continuously cover the entire surface of the second substrate 12.

[0067] In this embodiment, the first liquid crystal layer 13 is composed of positive liquid crystal molecules, that is, liquid crystal molecules with positive dielectric anisotropy. The positive liquid crystal molecules have Δn = ne - no, Δn > 0. The larger the Δn, the better it is for light scattering at a wide viewing angle. It is preferred to use positive liquid crystal molecules with Δn = 0.25 and optical path difference (Retardation) > 300 nm. In the initial state, the first liquid crystal layer 13 is in an upright posture. For example, the initial pretilt angle of the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 is between 83° and 90°. In narrow viewing angle mode, the entire first liquid crystal layer 13 stands upright and its refractive index is equal to that of the refractive layer 112. Light entering the refractive layer 112 from the first liquid crystal layer 13 does not refract, resulting in a narrow viewing angle. In wide viewing angle mode, there is a first pressure difference between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the second viewing angle control electrode 121, a second pressure difference between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122, and a third pressure difference between the second viewing angle control electrode 121 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122. Both the first and second pressure differences are large. When the third pressure difference is greater than or equal to the second preset value, the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 are in a disordered and scattered state (for example, the long axis directions of the liquid crystal molecules in the positive direction, left side and right side of the first electrode strip 121a are different, and the long axis directions of the liquid crystal molecules in the positive direction, left side and right side of the second electrode strip 122a are different). At this time, the refractive index of the positive liquid crystal molecules at different tilt angles is different, thus forming different refractive index differences with the refractive layer 112, and together with the refractive layer 112, they scatter light to achieve a larger viewing angle range. Of course, in other embodiments, in the initial state, the first liquid crystal layer 13 is in a flat position (e.g., the alignment pretilt angle is between 0 and 7°), that is, the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 are aligned parallel to the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12, and the alignment directions of the positive liquid crystal molecules on the side closer to the first substrate 11 are opposite to those of the positive liquid crystal molecules on the side closer to the second substrate 12. However, at wide viewing angles, a large pressure difference is required between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the second viewing angle control electrode 121, as well as between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122, so that the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 deflect in the vertical direction.

[0068] Furthermore, a first alignment layer is provided on the side of the first substrate 11 facing the first liquid crystal layer 13, the first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is between 0 and 90°, and the first angle between the projection of the first alignment direction of the first alignment layer on the second substrate 12 and the first electrode strip 121a is between 0 and 20°; a second alignment layer is provided on the side of the second substrate 12 facing the first liquid crystal layer 13, the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is between 0 and 90°, and the second angle between the projection of the second alignment direction of the second alignment layer on the second substrate 12 and the first electrode strip 121a is between 0 and 20°. In this embodiment, the positive liquid crystal molecules can have a large pretilt angle during initial alignment, meaning that the positive liquid crystal molecules initially form a large angle with the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12. The first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is between 83° and 90°, for example, 85°; the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is between 83° and 90°, for example, 85°. The first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer and the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer are the same. (Reference) Figure 6 When switching to a wide viewing angle, only a small voltage difference is needed between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the second viewing angle control electrode 121, as well as between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122. This means only a small vertical electric field is required to prevent the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 from being completely horizontal, thus reducing the driving voltage. Simultaneously, by ensuring that the angle between the alignment direction (first alignment direction, second alignment direction) and the first electrode strip 121a is between 0 and 20°, the horizontal deflection direction of the positive liquid crystal molecules can be limited, ensuring a wide viewing angle effect.

[0069] In this embodiment, the projection of the first alignment direction of the first alignment layer onto the second substrate 12 is parallel to the projection of the second alignment direction of the second alignment layer onto the second substrate 12. That is, in the initial state, the long axes of the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 are all on the same plane.

[0070] In this embodiment, the second view control electrode 121 and the third view control electrode 122 are located on different layers and separated from each other by an insulating layer, thereby avoiding the problem of short circuit between the second view control electrode 121 and the third view control electrode 122, and at the same time reducing the gap between the first electrode strip 121a and the second electrode strip 122a. Figure 4As shown, the second viewing angle control electrode 121 further includes a first wire 121b, which conductively connects multiple first electrode strips 121a. The third viewing angle control electrode 122 further includes a second wire 122b, which conductively connects multiple second electrode strips 122a. Both the first wire 121b and the second wire 122b are multiple, to reduce the resistance of the second viewing angle control electrode 121 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122. The extension direction of the first wire 121b is perpendicular to the extension direction of the first electrode strips 121a, and the extension direction of the second wire 122b is also perpendicular to the extension direction of the second electrode strips 122a. Of course, in other embodiments, the second viewing angle control electrode 121 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122 can also be located on the same layer and insulated from each other. In this case, the first wire 121b and the second wire 122b need to be positioned in the non-display area at the edge of the display panel.

[0071] Further, the width d1 of the first conductor 121b is 3-4 μm, the width d2 of the second conductor 122b is 3-4 μm, and the distance h1 between the first conductor 121b and the second conductor 122b is 15-25 μm. Preferably, the width d1 of the first conductor 121b is 3.5 μm, the width d2 of the second conductor 122b is 3.5 μm, and the distance h1 between the first conductor 121b and the second conductor 122b is 23 μm.

[0072] Further, the width d3 of the first electrode strip 121a is 3-4 μm, and the spacing between two adjacent first electrode strips 121a is 5-6 μm; the width d4 of the second electrode strip 122a is 3-4 μm, and the spacing between two adjacent second electrode strips 122a is 5-6 μm. Preferably, the width d3 of the first electrode strip 121a is 3.5 μm, and the spacing between two adjacent first electrode strips 121a is 5.5 μm; the width d4 of the second electrode strip 122a is 3.5 μm, and the spacing between two adjacent second electrode strips 122a is 5.5 μm. That is, the width of the first wire 121b is the same as that of the first electrode strip 121a, the width of the second wire 122b is the same as that of the second electrode strip 122a, and the width of the first electrode strip 121a is the same as that of the second electrode strip 122a.

[0073] Furthermore, the projections of the first electrode strip 121a and the second electrode strip 122a onto the plane of the second substrate 12 are arranged alternately and at intervals. Specifically, the distance h2 between their projections onto the plane of the second substrate 12 is 1-2 μm. Preferably, the distance h2 between the projections of the first electrode strip 121a and the second electrode strip 122a onto the plane of the second substrate 12 is 1 μm.

[0074] In this embodiment, the refractive layer 112 has a planar structure on the side facing the first liquid crystal layer 13, thereby reducing the complexity of the manufacturing process. The refractive layer 112 can be disposed on the side of the first viewing angle control electrode 111 facing the first liquid crystal layer 13, or it can be disposed between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the first substrate 11. Although the refractive layer 112 has a planar structure on the side facing the first liquid crystal layer 13, since not all backlight rays are completely perpendicular to the surface of the refractive layer 112, at wide viewing angles, some backlight rays will also be refracted when they enter the refractive layer 112 from the first liquid crystal layer 13, thus playing a role in scattering light. The refractive layer 112 can be made of materials such as resin, photoresist, or OC, with a refractive index between 1.4 and 1.8. The refractive index of the refractive layer 112 can be equal to the refractive index of the first liquid crystal layer 13 in the initial state, that is, the refractive index of the refractive layer 112 is equal to the refractive index of the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 when they are in an upright position, thereby making the dimming box 10 in a narrow viewing angle mode in the initial state.

[0075] The display liquid crystal cell 20 includes a color filter substrate 21, an array substrate 22 disposed opposite to the color filter substrate 21, and a second liquid crystal layer 23 located between the color filter substrate 21 and the array substrate 22. Preferably, the second liquid crystal layer 23 uses positive liquid crystal molecules, that is, liquid crystal molecules with positive dielectric anisotropy. In the initial state, the positive liquid crystal molecules in the second liquid crystal layer 23 are aligned parallel to the color filter substrate 21 and the array substrate 22. The alignment direction of the positive liquid crystal molecules on the side closer to the color filter substrate 21 is parallel or antiparallel to the alignment direction of the positive liquid crystal molecules on the side closer to the array substrate 22. In other embodiments, the array substrate 22 and the first substrate 11 may share a single substrate to reduce the cell thickness of the display panel.

[0076] The color filter substrate 21 has color resist layers 212 arranged in an array and black matrix 211 separating the color resist layers 212. The color resist layers 212 include color resist materials of red (R), green (G) and blue (B) colors, and correspondingly form sub-pixels of red (R), green (G) and blue (B) colors.

[0077] The array substrate 22 has multiple pixel units defined by multiple scan lines and multiple data lines that are mutually insulated and intersecting on the side facing the second liquid crystal layer 23. Each pixel unit has a pixel electrode 222 and a thin-film transistor. The pixel electrode 222 is electrically connected to the data line of the adjacent thin-film transistor through the thin-film transistor. The thin-film transistor includes a gate, an active layer, a drain, and a source. The gate and the scan line are located on the same layer and are electrically connected. The gate and the active layer are isolated by an insulating layer. The source is electrically connected to the data line, and the drain is electrically connected to the pixel electrode 222 through a contact hole.

[0078] like Figure 3As shown, in this embodiment, a common electrode 221 is further provided on the side of the array substrate 22 facing the second liquid crystal layer 23. The common electrode 221 and the pixel electrode 222 are located on different layers and are insulated from each other by an insulating layer. The common electrode 221 can be located above or below the pixel electrode 222. Figure 3 The diagram shows the common electrode 221 located below the pixel electrode 222. Preferably, the common electrode 221 is a planar electrode disposed across the entire surface, and the pixel electrode 222 is a block electrode disposed within each pixel unit or a slit electrode with multiple electrode strips, to form a fringe field switching (FFS) mode. Of course, in other embodiments, the pixel electrode 222 and the common electrode 221 may be located on the same layer, but they are insulated from each other. Both the pixel electrode 222 and the common electrode 221 may include multiple electrode strips, and the electrode strips of the pixel electrode 222 and the electrode strips of the common electrode 221 are arranged alternately to form an in-plane switching (IPS) mode; or, in other embodiments, the array substrate 22 has a pixel electrode 222 on the side facing the second liquid crystal layer 23, and the color filter substrate 21 has a common electrode 221 on the side facing the second liquid crystal layer 23 to form a TN mode or a VA mode. For further descriptions of the TN mode and VA mode, please refer to the prior art, which will not be repeated here.

[0079] The first substrate 11, the second substrate 12, the color filter substrate 21, and the array substrate 22 can be made of materials such as glass, acrylic, and polycarbonate. The first viewing angle control electrode 111, the second viewing angle control electrode 121, the third viewing angle control electrode 122, the common electrode 221, and the pixel electrode 222 can be made of materials such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO).

[0080] Furthermore, a backlight module 40 is provided on the side of the dimming box 10 away from the display liquid crystal box 20. Preferably, the backlight module 40 adopts collimated backlight (CBL) mode, which can collect light and ensure display effect.

[0081] The backlight module 40 includes a backlight source 41 and a privacy layer 43, which narrows the range of light emission angles. A brightness enhancement film 42 is also provided between the backlight source 41 and the privacy layer 43 to increase the brightness of the backlight module 40. The privacy layer 43 acts like a miniature venetian blind, blocking light with a large incident angle while allowing light with a smaller incident angle to pass through, thus reducing the range of light angles passing through the privacy layer 43. The privacy layer 43 includes multiple parallel light-blocking walls and light-transmitting holes located between adjacent light-blocking walls. Light-absorbing material is provided on both sides of the light-blocking walls. The light-receiving angle of the privacy layer 43 is 60°, 100°, etc.; the smaller the light-receiving angle, the better the narrow viewing angle effect. The backlight module 41 can be a side-lit backlight module or a collimated backlight module.

[0082] This embodiment also provides a driving method for a display panel, used to drive the display panel as described above. The driving method includes: applying a first voltage signal V1 to a first viewing angle control electrode 111, applying a second voltage signal V2 to a second viewing angle control electrode 121, and applying a third voltage signal V3 to a third viewing angle control electrode 122. By applying corresponding viewing angle control voltages to the first viewing angle control electrode 111, the second viewing angle control electrode 121, and the third viewing angle control electrode 122, the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer are in a disordered and scattered state, and in conjunction with the refractive layer 112, light can be scattered to achieve a wide viewing angle effect; or the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 are made to stand upright, so that the refractive index of the entire first liquid crystal layer 13 is equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer 112, basically without changing the light emission angle, to achieve a narrow viewing angle effect.

[0083] Figure 5 This is a waveform diagram of the viewing angle control signal of the display device in Embodiment 1 of the present invention when the viewing angle is narrow. For example... Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, in the narrow viewing angle mode, the first voltage signal V1, the second voltage signal V2, and the third voltage signal V3 are all DC common voltage signals, which keep the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 in their initial posture. That is, the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 are controlled to be in their initial upright posture, so that the refractive index of the entire first liquid crystal layer 13 is equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer 112. After the light enters the refractive layer 112 from the first liquid crystal layer 13, the emission angle remains basically unchanged, thus achieving the narrow viewing angle effect. In particular, the light emitted by the backlight 41 is narrowed after being collected by the privacy layer 43, resulting in a better narrow viewing angle effect.

[0084] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the display device in Embodiment 1 of the present invention at a wide viewing angle. Figure 7 This is one of the waveform diagrams of the viewing angle control signal of the display device in a wide viewing angle in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 8This is the second waveform diagram of the viewing angle control signal of the display device in Embodiment 1 of the present invention at a wide viewing angle. Figures 6 to 8 As shown, in wide-view mode, there is a first voltage difference (e.g., 5V) between the first voltage signal V1 and the second voltage signal V2, a second voltage difference (e.g., 5V) between the first voltage signal V1 and the third voltage signal V3, and a third voltage difference (e.g., 10V) between the second voltage signal V2 and the third voltage signal V3. Both the first and second voltage differences are greater than a first preset value (e.g., 5V), and the third voltage difference is greater than or equal to a second preset value (e.g., 10V). At this time, a strong vertical electric field is formed between the first view control electrode 111 and the second view control electrode 121, and between the first view control electrode 111 and the third view control electrode 122. A strong horizontal electric field is also formed between the second view control electrode 121 and the third view control electrode 122. Under the influence of vertical and horizontal electric fields, and with alignment pretilt angles (first alignment pretilt angle, second alignment pretilt angle) between 83° and 90°, and the angle between the alignment direction (first alignment direction, second alignment direction) and the first electrode strip 121a between 0° and 20°, positive liquid crystal molecules can be driven to deflect in the preset direction in both the horizontal and vertical directions. This causes the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 to be in a disordered and scattered state. At this time, the refractive index of positive liquid crystal molecules with different tilt angles is different, thus forming different refractive index differences with the refractive layer 112. Together with the refractive layer 112, they have a scattering effect on light, achieving a larger viewing angle range to realize wide viewing angle display.

[0085] In this embodiment, in wide-viewing-angle mode, the first voltage signal V1 is a DC common voltage signal, and the second voltage signal V2 is a first AC voltage signal that fluctuates around the DC common voltage signal, for example, a 5V AC voltage fluctuating around the DC common voltage signal; the third voltage signal V3 is a second AC voltage signal that fluctuates around the DC common voltage signal, and also a 5V AC voltage fluctuating around the DC common voltage signal. The first and second AC voltage signals have the same amplitude and the same period. Figure 7 As shown, at the same moment, the polarities of the first AC voltage signal and the second AC voltage signal are opposite; as Figure 8As shown, the phases of the first and second AC voltage signals are staggered by 10% to 25% of their periods. Specifically, within the time intervals t1 and t2 of T / 2 (where T is the period of the AC voltage signal), the voltage difference between the second voltage signal V2 and the third voltage signal V3 is different. This causes the voltage difference between the second voltage signal V2 and the third voltage signal V3 to change multiple times in each frame, ensuring a wide viewing angle while avoiding polarization of the positive liquid crystal molecules. Of course, the amplitudes of the second voltage signal V2 and the third voltage signal V3 can be adjusted according to actual needs.

[0086] [Example 2]

[0087] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the display device in a narrow viewing angle according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the planar structure of the first alignment direction and the second alignment direction in Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the display panel and driving method, and display device provided in Embodiment 2 of the present invention are similar to those in Embodiment 1. Figures 3 to 8 The display panel, driving method, and display device are basically the same as those in the previous embodiment, except that in this embodiment:

[0088] There is an angle between the projection of the first alignment direction of the first alignment layer onto the second substrate 12 and the projection of the second alignment direction of the second alignment layer onto the second substrate 12. For example, the angle between the first alignment direction of the first alignment layer and the first electrode strip 121a is between 0 and 20°, while the angle between the second alignment direction of the second alignment layer and the first electrode strip 121a is between -20° and 0°, thereby forming an angle between the projection of the first alignment direction of the first alignment layer onto the second substrate 12 and the projection of the second alignment direction of the second alignment layer onto the second substrate 12. Of course, in other embodiments, the angle between the projection of the first alignment direction of the first alignment layer onto the second substrate 12 and the projection of the second alignment direction of the second alignment layer onto the second substrate 12 can also be set according to the actual situation.

[0089] By having an angle between the projection of the first alignment direction of the first alignment layer onto the second substrate 12 and the projection of the second alignment direction of the second alignment layer onto the second substrate 12, the driving voltage can be further reduced at a wide viewing angle. Moreover, the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 will be more disordered and scattered, which is conducive to achieving a better scattering effect. That is, compared with Embodiment 1, this embodiment has a better wide viewing angle effect.

[0090] Those skilled in the art should understand that the remaining structures and working principles of this embodiment are the same as those of Embodiment 1, and will not be repeated here.

[0091] [Example 3]

[0092] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the display device in its initial state according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. Figure 11 As shown, the display panel and driving method, and display device provided in Embodiment 3 of the present invention are similar to those in Embodiment 1. Figures 3 to 8 The display panel, driving method, and display device are basically the same as those in the previous embodiment, except that in this embodiment:

[0093] The first liquid crystal layer 13 consists of positive liquid crystal molecules, i.e., liquid crystal molecules with positive dielectric anisotropy. The positive liquid crystal molecules have a Δn = ne - no. A larger Δn is more beneficial for light scattering at wide viewing angles; preferably, Δn = 0.25 and a relief greater than 300 nm are used. The first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is between 83° and 90°, for example, 85°. The second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is between 0 and 7°, for example, 5°. That is, the positive liquid crystal molecules near the first substrate 11 are aligned approximately perpendicular to the first substrate 11, and the positive liquid crystal molecules near the second substrate 12 are aligned approximately parallel to the second substrate 12, thereby reducing driving power consumption at wide viewing angles. In the narrow viewing angle mode, the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 are in an upright position. At this time, the refractive index of the entire first liquid crystal layer 13 is equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer 112. When light enters the refractive layer 112 from the first liquid crystal layer 13, no refraction occurs, resulting in a small viewing angle range. In the wide viewing angle mode, there is a first pressure difference between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the second viewing angle control electrode 121, a second pressure difference between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122, and a third pressure difference between the second viewing angle control electrode 121 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122. The first and second pressure differences are both greater than a first preset value, and the third pressure difference is greater than or equal to the second preset value. This causes the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 to be in a disordered and scattered state. At this time, the refractive index of the positive liquid crystal molecules at different tilt angles is different, thus forming different refractive index differences with the refractive layer 112. Together with the refractive layer 112, they scatter light, achieving a larger viewing angle range.

[0094] This embodiment also provides a driving method for a display panel, used to drive the display panel as described above. The driving method includes: applying a first voltage signal V1 to a first viewing angle control electrode 111, applying a second voltage signal V2 to a second viewing angle control electrode 121, and applying a third voltage signal V3 to a third viewing angle control electrode 122. By applying corresponding viewing angle control voltages to the first viewing angle control electrode 111, the second viewing angle control electrode 121, and the third viewing angle control electrode 122, the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer are in a disordered and scattered state, and in conjunction with the refractive layer 112, light can be scattered to achieve a wide viewing angle effect; or the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 are made to stand upright, so that the refractive index of the entire first liquid crystal layer 13 is equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer 112, basically without changing the light emission angle, to achieve a narrow viewing angle effect.

[0095] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the display device in a narrow viewing angle according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. Figure 13 This is a waveform diagram of the viewing angle control signal of the display device in Embodiment 3 of the present invention when the viewing angle is narrow. For example... Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, in the narrow viewing angle mode, there is a fourth voltage difference (e.g., 2V) between the first voltage signal V1 and the second voltage signal V2, and between the first voltage signal V1 and the third voltage signal V3. This fourth voltage difference is greater than or equal to a third preset value (e.g., 2V). A strong vertical electric field is formed between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the second viewing angle control electrode 121, and between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122. This causes the positive liquid crystal molecules near the second substrate 12 to deflect vertically and stand upright, making the refractive index of the entire first liquid crystal layer 13 equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer 112. Light entering the refractive layer 112 from the first liquid crystal layer 13 does not significantly change its exit angle, thus achieving a narrow viewing angle effect. Furthermore, the light emitted from the backlight 41 is absorbed by the privacy layer 43, resulting in a narrower viewing angle and a better narrow viewing angle effect.

[0096] You can refer to this. Figures 6 to 8As shown, in wide-view mode, there is a first voltage difference (e.g., 3V) between the first voltage signal V1 and the second voltage signal V2, a second voltage difference (e.g., 3V) between the first voltage signal V1 and the third voltage signal V3, and a third voltage difference (e.g., also 6V) between the second voltage signal V2 and the third voltage signal V3. Both the first and second voltage differences are greater than a first preset value (e.g., 3V), and the third voltage difference is greater than or equal to a second preset value (e.g., 6V). At this time, a strong vertical electric field is formed between the first view control electrode 111 and the second view control electrode 121, and between the first view control electrode 111 and the third view control electrode 122. A strong horizontal electric field is also formed between the second view control electrode 121 and the third view control electrode 122. Under the influence of vertical and horizontal electric fields, and with the first alignment pretilt angle between 83° and 90°, the second alignment pretilt angle between 0° and 7°, and the angle between the alignment direction (first alignment direction, second alignment direction) and the first electrode strip 121a between 0° and 20°, positive liquid crystal molecules can be driven to deflect in the preset direction in both the horizontal and vertical directions. This causes the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 to be in a disordered and scattered state. At this time, the refractive index of positive liquid crystal molecules with different tilt angles is different, thus forming different refractive index differences with the refractive layer 112. Together with the refractive layer 112, they have a scattering effect on light, achieving a larger viewing angle range to realize wide viewing angle display.

[0097] In this embodiment, since the positive liquid crystal molecules on the side closer to the first substrate 11 are aligned approximately perpendicular to the first substrate 11, and the positive liquid crystal molecules on the side closer to the second substrate 12 are aligned approximately parallel to the second substrate 12, the driving power consumption at wide viewing angles can be reduced.

[0098] Those skilled in the art should understand that the remaining structures and working principles of this embodiment are the same as those of Embodiment 1, and will not be repeated here.

[0099] [Example 4]

[0100] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the display device in Embodiment 4 of the present invention at a narrow viewing angle. Figure 14 As shown, the display panel and driving method, and display device provided in Embodiment 4 of the present invention are similar to those in Embodiment 3 (…). Figures 11 to 13 The display panel, driving method, and display device are basically the same as those in the previous embodiment, except that in this embodiment:

[0101] The first liquid crystal layer 13 consists of negative liquid crystal molecules, i.e., liquid crystal molecules with negative dielectric anisotropy. The negative liquid crystal molecules have a dielectric anisotropy of Δn = ne - no, where Δn < 0. A larger -Δn value is more beneficial for light scattering at wide viewing angles. The first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is between 83° and 90°, for example, 85°. The second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is between 0° and 7°, for example, 5°. That is, the negative liquid crystal molecules near the first substrate 11 are aligned approximately perpendicular to the first substrate 11, and the negative liquid crystal molecules near the second substrate 12 are aligned approximately parallel to the second substrate 12, thereby reducing driving power consumption at wide viewing angles. In the narrow viewing angle mode, the negative liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 are in a flat position. At this time, the refractive index of the entire first liquid crystal layer 13 is equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer 112. When light enters the refractive layer 112 from the first liquid crystal layer 13, no refraction occurs, resulting in a small viewing angle range. In the wide viewing angle mode, there is a first pressure difference between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the second viewing angle control electrode 121, a second pressure difference between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122, and a third pressure difference between the second viewing angle control electrode 121 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122. The first and second pressure differences are both greater than a first preset value, and the third pressure difference is greater than or equal to the second preset value. This causes the negative liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 to be in a disordered and scattered state. At this time, the refractive index of the negative liquid crystal molecules at different tilt angles is different, thus forming different refractive index differences with the refractive layer 112. Together with the refractive layer 112, they scatter light, achieving a larger viewing angle range.

[0102] This embodiment also provides a driving method for a display panel, used to drive the display panel as described above. The driving method includes: applying a first voltage signal V1 to a first viewing angle control electrode 111, applying a second voltage signal V2 to a second viewing angle control electrode 121, and applying a third voltage signal V3 to a third viewing angle control electrode 122. By applying corresponding viewing angle control voltages to the first viewing angle control electrode 111, the second viewing angle control electrode 121, and the third viewing angle control electrode 122, the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer are in a disordered and scattered state, and in conjunction with the refractive layer 112, light can be scattered to achieve a wide viewing angle effect; or the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 are made to lie flat, so that the refractive index of the entire first liquid crystal layer 13 is equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer 112, which basically does not change the emission angle of light, thereby achieving a narrow viewing angle effect.

[0103] like Figure 14As shown, in the narrow viewing angle mode, there is a fourth voltage difference (e.g., 2V) between the first voltage signal V1 and the second voltage signal V2, and between the first voltage signal V1 and the third voltage signal V3. This fourth voltage difference is greater than or equal to a third preset value (e.g., 2V). A strong vertical electric field is formed between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the second viewing angle control electrode 121, and between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122. This causes the negative liquid crystal molecules near the first substrate 11 to deflect vertically and lie flat, making the refractive index of the entire first liquid crystal layer 13 equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer 112. Light entering the refractive layer 112 from the first liquid crystal layer 13 does not significantly change its exit angle, thus achieving a narrow viewing angle effect. Furthermore, the light emitted from the backlight 41 is absorbed by the privacy layer 43, resulting in a narrower viewing angle and a better narrow viewing angle effect.

[0104] You can refer to this. Figures 6 to 8 As shown, in wide-view mode, there is a first voltage difference (e.g., 3V) between the first voltage signal V1 and the second voltage signal V2, a second voltage difference (e.g., 3V) between the first voltage signal V1 and the third voltage signal V3, and a third voltage difference (e.g., also 6V) between the second voltage signal V2 and the third voltage signal V3. Both the first and second voltage differences are greater than a first preset value (e.g., 3V), and the third voltage difference is greater than or equal to a second preset value (e.g., 6V). At this time, a strong vertical electric field is formed between the first view control electrode 111 and the second view control electrode 121, and between the first view control electrode 111 and the third view control electrode 122. A strong horizontal electric field is also formed between the second view control electrode 121 and the third view control electrode 122. Under the influence of vertical and horizontal electric fields, and with the first alignment pretilt angle between 83° and 90°, the second alignment pretilt angle between 0° and 7°, and the angle between the alignment direction (first alignment direction, second alignment direction) and the first electrode strip 121a between 0° and 20°, negative liquid crystal molecules can be driven to deflect in the preset direction in both the horizontal and vertical directions. This causes the negative liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 to be in a disordered and scattered state. At this time, the refractive index of negative liquid crystal molecules with different tilt angles is different, thus forming different refractive index differences with the refractive layer 112. Together with the refractive layer 112, they have a scattering effect on light, achieving a larger viewing angle range to realize wide viewing angle display.

[0105] In this embodiment, since the negative liquid crystal molecules on the side closer to the first substrate 11 are aligned approximately perpendicular to the first substrate 11, and the negative liquid crystal molecules on the side closer to the second substrate 12 are aligned approximately parallel to the second substrate 12, the driving power consumption at wide viewing angles can be reduced.

[0106] Those skilled in the art should understand that the remaining structure and working principle of this embodiment are the same as those of Embodiment 3, and will not be repeated here.

[0107] [Example 5]

[0108] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the display device in its initial state according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention. Figure 15 As shown, the display panel and driving method, and display device provided in Embodiment 5 of the present invention are similar to those in Embodiment 1. Figures 3 to 8 The display panel, driving method, and display device are basically the same as those in the previous embodiment, except that in this embodiment:

[0109] In this embodiment, the first liquid crystal layer 13 consists of positive liquid crystal molecules, i.e., liquid crystal molecules with positive dielectric anisotropy. The positive liquid crystal molecules have a Δn = ne - no, where Δn > 0. A larger Δn is more beneficial for light scattering at wide viewing angles; preferably, positive liquid crystal molecules with Δn = 0.25 and a relief > 300 nm are used. Initially, the first liquid crystal layer 13 is in a flat position, meaning the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 are aligned parallel to the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12. The alignment directions of the positive liquid crystal molecules closer to the first substrate 11 are opposite to those of the positive liquid crystal molecules closer to the second substrate 12. In narrow viewing angle mode, the positive liquid crystal molecules in the entire first liquid crystal layer 13 are upright and their refractive index is equal to that of the refractive layer 112. Light does not refract when it enters the refractive layer 112 from the first liquid crystal layer 13, resulting in a small viewing angle range. In wide viewing angle mode, there is a first pressure difference between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the second viewing angle control electrode 121, a second pressure difference between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122, and a third pressure difference between the second viewing angle control electrode 121 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122. The first pressure difference and the third... Both pressure differences are greater than the first preset value, and the third pressure difference is greater than or equal to the second preset value, causing the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 to be in a disordered and scattered state (for example, the long axis directions of the liquid crystal molecules in the positive direction, left side, and right side of the first electrode strip 121a are different, and the long axis directions of the liquid crystal molecules in the positive direction, left side, and right side of the second electrode strip 122a are different). At this time, the refractive index of the positive liquid crystal molecules at different tilt angles is different, thus forming different refractive index differences with the refractive layer 112, and together with the refractive layer 112, scattering light to achieve a larger viewing angle range. In other embodiments, the refractive index of the refractive layer 112 can also be equal to the refractive index of the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 when they are in a lying position, so that the dimming box 10 is in a narrow viewing angle mode in the initial state, thereby reducing the driving power consumption of the narrow viewing angle mode.

[0110] Furthermore, a first alignment layer is provided on the side of the first substrate 11 facing the first liquid crystal layer 13, the first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is between 0° and 90°, and the first angle between the projection of the first alignment direction of the first alignment layer on the second substrate 12 and the first electrode strip 121a is between 0° and 20°; a second alignment layer is provided on the side of the second substrate 12 facing the first liquid crystal layer 13, the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is between 0° and 90°, and the second angle between the projection of the second alignment direction of the second alignment layer on the second substrate 12 and the first electrode strip 121a is between 0° and 20°. In this embodiment, the positive liquid crystal molecules can have a small pretilt angle during initial alignment, meaning that the positive liquid crystal molecules initially form a small angle with the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12. The first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is between 0 and 7°, for example, 5°; the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is between 0 and 7°, for example, 5°. The first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is the same as the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer. When switching to a wide viewing angle, the positive liquid crystal molecules can be accelerated to deflect in the vertical direction. Simultaneously, the angle between the alignment direction (first alignment direction, second alignment direction) and the first electrode strip 121a is between 0° and 20°, thereby limiting the horizontal deflection direction of the positive liquid crystal molecules to ensure a wide viewing angle effect.

[0111] In this embodiment, the refractive layer 112 has multiple protrusions on the side facing the first liquid crystal layer 13. The cross-section of the protrusions can be semi-circular, triangular, trapezoidal, etc., such as triangular prisms, trapezoidal quadrangular prisms, semi-cylinders, triangular pyramids, quadrangular pyramids, frustums, hemispheres, etc. Compared to Embodiment 1, although the manufacturing process is more complex, since the surface of the protrusions can form a certain angle with most of the backlight, most of the backlight will be refracted when it enters the refractive layer 112 from the first liquid crystal layer 13 at a wide viewing angle, thus increasing the light scattering effect. The refractive layer 112 can be made of materials such as resin, photoresist, or OC. The refractive index of the refractive layer 112 is equal to the refractive index of the first liquid crystal layer 13 in its standing state, or it can be equal to the refractive index of the first liquid crystal layer 13 in its initial state.

[0112] For example, the fabrication process of the refractive layer 112 includes: coating a resin material on a substrate → using an imprinting mold to imprint the resin material to form a raised structure → curing with UV light → removing the imprinting mold. The refractive index of the refractive layer 112 is between 1.4 and 1.8. The resin coating thickness is limited by existing mold opening techniques; existing samples use a height of 6–10 μm and a spacing of 10–15 μm. The smaller the spacing, the thicker the layer, the larger the corresponding microstructure angle, and the better the light scattering effect.

[0113] This embodiment also provides a driving method for a display panel, used to drive the display panel as described above. The driving method includes: applying a first voltage signal V1 to a first viewing angle control electrode 111, applying a second voltage signal V2 to a second viewing angle control electrode 121, and applying a third voltage signal V3 to a third viewing angle control electrode 122. By applying corresponding viewing angle control voltages to the first viewing angle control electrode 111, the second viewing angle control electrode 121, and the third viewing angle control electrode 122, the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer are in a disordered and scattered state, and in conjunction with the refractive layer 112, light can be scattered to achieve a wide viewing angle effect; or the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 are made to stand upright, so that the refractive index of the entire first liquid crystal layer 13 is equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer 112, basically without changing the light emission angle, to achieve a narrow viewing angle effect.

[0114] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the display device in Embodiment 5 of the present invention at a narrow viewing angle. Figure 16 As shown, in the narrow viewing angle mode, there is a fourth voltage difference (e.g., 5V) between the first voltage signal V1 and the second voltage signal V2, and between the first voltage signal V1 and the third voltage signal V3. This fourth voltage difference is greater than or equal to a third preset value (e.g., 5V). A strong vertical electric field is formed between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the second viewing angle control electrode 121, and between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122. This causes the positive liquid crystal molecules near the second substrate 12 to deflect vertically and stand upright, making the refractive index of the entire first liquid crystal layer 13 equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer 112. Light entering the refractive layer 112 from the first liquid crystal layer 13 does not significantly change its exit angle, thus achieving a narrow viewing angle effect. Furthermore, the light emitted from the backlight 41 is absorbed by the privacy layer 43, resulting in a narrower viewing angle and a better narrow viewing angle effect.

[0115] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the display device in Embodiment 5 of the present invention at a wide viewing angle, as shown below. Figure 17As shown, in wide-view mode, there is a first voltage difference (e.g., 3V) between the first voltage signal V1 and the second voltage signal V2, a second voltage difference (e.g., 3V) between the first voltage signal V1 and the third voltage signal V3, and a third voltage difference (e.g., also 6V) between the second voltage signal V2 and the third voltage signal V3. Both the first and second voltage differences are greater than a first preset value (e.g., 3V), and the third voltage difference is greater than or equal to a second preset value (e.g., 6V). At this time, a strong vertical electric field is formed between the first view control electrode 111 and the second view control electrode 121, and between the first view control electrode 111 and the third view control electrode 122. A strong horizontal electric field is also formed between the second view control electrode 121 and the third view control electrode 122. Under the influence of vertical and horizontal electric fields, and with the first alignment pretilt angle and the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer being between 0 and 7°, and the angle between the alignment direction (first alignment direction, second alignment direction) and the first electrode strip 121a being between 0° and 20°, positive liquid crystal molecules can be driven to deflect in the preset direction in both the horizontal and vertical directions, causing the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 to be in a disordered and scattered state. At this time, the refractive index of positive liquid crystal molecules with different tilt angles is different, thus forming different refractive index differences with the refractive layer 112, and together with the refractive layer 112, they have a scattering effect on light, achieving a larger viewing angle range to realize wide viewing angle display.

[0116] Figure 18 This is another waveform diagram of the viewing angle control signal of the display device in Embodiment 5 of the present invention at a wide viewing angle. In this embodiment, since the positive liquid crystal molecules initially form a small angle with the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12, that is, the positive liquid crystal molecules are initially aligned substantially parallel to the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12, therefore, at a wide viewing angle, in addition to using the driving waveform diagram of the wide viewing angle mode as in Embodiment 1, another driving waveform diagram can also be used. Figure 18As shown, in wide-viewing-angle mode, there is a first voltage difference between the first voltage signal V1 and the second voltage signal V2, which is less than a fourth preset value (e.g., less than 0.5V). For example, if both the first voltage signal V1 and the second voltage signal V2 are 5V AC signals, the first voltage difference is 0. The third voltage signal V3 uses a 5V AC signal; however, at the same time, the polarities of the first voltage signal V1 and the second voltage signal V2 are opposite to those of the third voltage signal V3. Therefore, there is a second voltage difference (e.g., 10V) between the first voltage signal V1 and the third voltage signal V3, and a third voltage difference (e.g., also 10V) between the second voltage signal V2 and the third voltage signal V3. At this point, a minimal vertical electric field is formed between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the second viewing angle control electrode 121, meaning the positive liquid crystal molecules between them deflect at a relatively small angle in the vertical direction. A stronger vertical electric field is formed between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122, causing the positive liquid crystal molecules between them to deflect at a larger angle in the vertical direction. Furthermore, a strong horizontal electric field is also formed between the second and third viewing angle control electrodes 121, causing the positive liquid crystal molecules to deflect horizontally. Therefore, this avoids excessive vertical deflection of all positive liquid crystal molecules, resulting in a more pronounced gradient change in the tilt angle of the positive liquid crystal molecules and a better wide-viewing-angle effect. Of course, the second voltage difference between the first voltage signal V1 and the third voltage signal V3 can also be less than the fourth preset value (e.g., less than 0.5V). For example, the first voltage signal V1 and the third voltage signal V3 are both 5V AC signals, and the second voltage signal V2 is a 5V AC signal. However, at the same time, the polarities of the first voltage signal V1 and the third voltage signal V3 are opposite to those of the second voltage signal V2, which can also achieve a good wide viewing angle effect.

[0117] like Figure 15 As shown, in the initial state, the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 are in a flat position. At this time, the refractive index of the first liquid crystal layer 13 is not equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer 112. When light enters the refractive layer 112 from the first liquid crystal layer 13, it will also undergo some refraction. The viewing angle range at this time is wider than the viewing angle range of the narrow viewing angle mode, but narrower than the viewing angle range of the wide viewing angle mode. Therefore, when a compromise viewing angle range is needed, the first voltage signal V1, the second voltage signal V2, and the third voltage signal V3 can all be DC common voltage signals to keep the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 in their initial position, that is, to control the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 to be in an initial parallel position, so that the refractive index of the entire first liquid crystal layer 13 is not equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer 112, thereby achieving a compromise viewing angle range.

[0118] Those skilled in the art should understand that the remaining structures and working principles of this embodiment are the same as those of Embodiment 1, and will not be repeated here.

[0119] [Example 6]

[0120] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the display device in Embodiment Six of the present invention at a narrow viewing angle. Figure 19 As shown, the display panel and driving method, and display device provided in Embodiment Six of the present invention are similar to those in Embodiment Five. Figures 15 to 17 The display panel, driving method, and display device are basically the same as those in the previous embodiment, except that in this embodiment:

[0121] In this embodiment, the first liquid crystal layer 13 is composed of positive liquid crystal molecules, that is, liquid crystal molecules with positive dielectric anisotropy. The positive liquid crystal molecules have Δn = ne - no, Δn > 0. The larger the Δn, the better it is for light scattering at a wide viewing angle. It is preferred to use positive liquid crystal molecules with Δn = 0.25 and optical path difference (Retardation) > 300 nm. In the initial state, the first liquid crystal layer 13 is in an upright posture. For example, the initial pretilt angle of the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 is between 83° and 90°. In narrow viewing angle mode, the entire first liquid crystal layer 13 stands upright and its refractive index is equal to that of the refractive layer 112. Light entering the refractive layer 112 from the first liquid crystal layer 13 does not refract, resulting in a narrow viewing angle. In wide viewing angle mode, there is a first pressure difference between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the second viewing angle control electrode 121, a second pressure difference between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122, and a third pressure difference between the second viewing angle control electrode 121 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122. Both the first and second pressure differences are large. When the third pressure difference is greater than or equal to the second preset value, the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 are in a disordered and scattered state (for example, the long axis directions of the liquid crystal molecules in the positive direction, left side and right side of the first electrode strip 121a are different, and the long axis directions of the liquid crystal molecules in the positive direction, left side and right side of the second electrode strip 122a are different). At this time, the refractive index of the positive liquid crystal molecules at different tilt angles is different, thus forming different refractive index differences with the refractive layer 112, and together with the refractive layer 112, they scatter light to achieve a larger viewing angle range.

[0122] This embodiment also provides a driving method for a display panel, used to drive the display panel as described above. The driving method includes: applying a first voltage signal V1 to a first viewing angle control electrode 111, applying a second voltage signal V2 to a second viewing angle control electrode 121, and applying a third voltage signal V3 to a third viewing angle control electrode 122. By applying corresponding viewing angle control voltages to the first viewing angle control electrode 111, the second viewing angle control electrode 121, and the third viewing angle control electrode 122, the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer are in a disordered and scattered state, and in conjunction with the refractive layer 112, light can be scattered to achieve a wide viewing angle effect; or the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 are made to stand upright, so that the refractive index of the entire first liquid crystal layer 13 is equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer 112, basically without changing the light emission angle, to achieve a narrow viewing angle effect.

[0123] like Figure 19 As shown, in the narrow viewing angle mode, the first voltage signal V1, the second voltage signal V2, and the third voltage signal V3 are all DC common voltage signals, which keep the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 in their initial posture. That is, the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 are controlled to be in their initial upright posture, so that the refractive index of the entire first liquid crystal layer 13 is equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer 112. After the light enters the refractive layer 112 from the first liquid crystal layer 13, the emission angle remains basically unchanged, thus achieving the narrow viewing angle effect. In particular, the light emitted by the backlight 41 is narrowed after being collected by the privacy layer 43, resulting in a better narrow viewing angle effect.

[0124] refer to Figure 17As shown, in wide-view mode, there is a first voltage difference (e.g., 4V) between the first voltage signal V1 and the second voltage signal V2, a second voltage difference (e.g., 4V) between the first voltage signal V1 and the third voltage signal V3, and a third voltage difference (e.g., also 8V) between the second voltage signal V2 and the third voltage signal V3. Both the first and second voltage differences are greater than a first preset value (e.g., 4V), and the third voltage difference is greater than or equal to a second preset value (e.g., 8V). At this time, a strong vertical electric field is formed between the first view control electrode 111 and the second view control electrode 121, and between the first view control electrode 111 and the third view control electrode 122. A strong horizontal electric field is also formed between the second view control electrode 121 and the third view control electrode 122. Under the influence of vertical and horizontal electric fields, and with the first alignment pretilt angle and the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer being between 83° and 90°, and the angle between the alignment direction (first alignment direction, second alignment direction) and the first electrode strip 121a being between 0° and 20°, positive liquid crystal molecules can be driven to deflect in the preset direction in both the horizontal and vertical directions. This causes the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 to be in a disordered and scattered state. At this time, the refractive index of positive liquid crystal molecules with different tilt angles is different, thus forming different refractive index differences with the refractive layer 112. Together with the refractive layer 112, they have a scattering effect on light, achieving a larger viewing angle range to realize wide viewing angle display.

[0125] Those skilled in the art should understand that the remaining structures and working principles of this embodiment are the same as those of Embodiment 5, and will not be repeated here.

[0126] [Example 7]

[0127] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of the display device in its initial state according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention. Figure 20 As shown, the display panel and driving method, and display device provided in Embodiment 7 of the present invention are similar to those in Embodiment 5. Figures 15 to 17 The display panel, driving method, and display device are basically the same as those in the previous embodiment, except that in this embodiment:

[0128] The first liquid crystal layer 13 is composed of positive liquid crystal molecules, that is, liquid crystal molecules with positive dielectric anisotropy. The positive liquid crystal molecules have Δn = ne - no, Δn > 0. The larger the Δn, the better it is for light scattering at a wide viewing angle. It is preferred to use positive liquid crystal molecules with Δn = 0.25 and optical path difference (Retardation) > 300 nm. In the initial state, the first liquid crystal layer 13 is tilted. For example, the initial pretilt angle of the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 is between 5° and 85°. In narrow viewing angle mode, the entire first liquid crystal layer 13 stands upright and its refractive index is equal to that of the refractive layer 112. Light entering the refractive layer 112 from the first liquid crystal layer 13 does not refract, resulting in a narrow viewing angle. In wide viewing angle mode, there is a first pressure difference between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the second viewing angle control electrode 121, a second pressure difference between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122, and a third pressure difference between the second viewing angle control electrode 121 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122. Both the first and second pressure differences are large. When the third pressure difference is greater than or equal to the second preset value, the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 are in a disordered and scattered state (for example, the long axis directions of the liquid crystal molecules in the positive direction, left side and right side of the first electrode strip 121a are different, and the long axis directions of the liquid crystal molecules in the positive direction, left side and right side of the second electrode strip 122a are different). At this time, the refractive index of the positive liquid crystal molecules at different tilt angles is different, thus forming different refractive index differences with the refractive layer 112, and together with the refractive layer 112, they scatter light to achieve a larger viewing angle range.

[0129] Furthermore, a first alignment layer is provided on the side of the first substrate 11 facing the first liquid crystal layer 13, the first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is between 5 and 85°, and the first angle between the projection of the first alignment direction of the first alignment layer on the second substrate 12 and the first electrode strip 121a is between 0 and 20°; a second alignment layer is provided on the side of the second substrate 12 facing the first liquid crystal layer 13, the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is between 5 and 85°, and the second angle between the projection of the second alignment direction of the second alignment layer on the second substrate 12 and the first electrode strip 121a is between 0 and 20°. In this embodiment, the positive liquid crystal molecules can have a certain pretilt angle during initial alignment, that is, the positive liquid crystal molecules initially form a certain angle with the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12. The first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is between 5 and 85°, for example, the first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is 65°; the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is between 5 and 85°, for example, the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is 65°. The first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is the same as the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer. When switching to a wide viewing angle, only a small voltage difference is needed between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the second viewing angle control electrode 121, and between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122, i.e., only a small vertical electric field is needed to avoid the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 being completely horizontal, thus reducing the driving voltage. Meanwhile, the angle between the alignment direction (first alignment direction, second alignment direction) and the first electrode strip 121a is between 0 and 20°, thereby limiting the horizontal deflection direction of the positive liquid crystal molecules to ensure a wide viewing angle effect.

[0130] refer to Figure 16 As shown, in the narrow viewing angle mode, there is a fourth voltage difference (e.g., 4V) between the first voltage signal V1 and the second voltage signal V2, and between the first voltage signal V1 and the third voltage signal V3. This fourth voltage difference is greater than or equal to a third preset value (e.g., 4V). A strong vertical electric field is formed between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the second viewing angle control electrode 121, and between the first viewing angle control electrode 111 and the third viewing angle control electrode 122. This causes the positive liquid crystal molecules near the second substrate 12 to deflect vertically and stand upright, making the refractive index of the entire first liquid crystal layer 13 equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer 112. Light entering the refractive layer 112 from the first liquid crystal layer 13 does not significantly change its exit angle, thus achieving a narrow viewing angle effect. Furthermore, the light emitted from the backlight 41 is absorbed by the privacy layer 43, resulting in a narrower viewing angle and a better narrow viewing angle effect.

[0131] refer to Figure 17As shown, in wide-view mode, there is a first voltage difference (e.g., 3V) between the first voltage signal V1 and the second voltage signal V2, a second voltage difference (e.g., 3V) between the first voltage signal V1 and the third voltage signal V3, and a third voltage difference (e.g., also 6V) between the second voltage signal V2 and the third voltage signal V3. Both the first and second voltage differences are greater than a first preset value (e.g., 3V), and the third voltage difference is greater than or equal to a second preset value (e.g., 6V). At this time, a strong vertical electric field is formed between the first view control electrode 111 and the second view control electrode 121, and between the first view control electrode 111 and the third view control electrode 122. A strong horizontal electric field is also formed between the second view control electrode 121 and the third view control electrode 122. Under the influence of vertical and horizontal electric fields, and with the first alignment pretilt angle and the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer being between 0 and 7°, and the angle between the alignment direction (first alignment direction, second alignment direction) and the first electrode strip 121a being between 0° and 20°, positive liquid crystal molecules can be driven to deflect in the preset direction in both the horizontal and vertical directions, causing the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 to be in a disordered and scattered state. At this time, the refractive index of positive liquid crystal molecules with different tilt angles is different, thus forming different refractive index differences with the refractive layer 112, and together with the refractive layer 112, they have a scattering effect on light, achieving a larger viewing angle range to realize wide viewing angle display.

[0132] like Figure 20 As shown, in the initial state, the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 are in a flat position. At this time, the refractive index of the first liquid crystal layer 13 is not equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer 112. When light enters the refractive layer 112 from the first liquid crystal layer 13, it will also undergo some refraction. The viewing angle range at this time is wider than the viewing angle range of the narrow viewing angle mode, but narrower than the viewing angle range of the wide viewing angle mode. Therefore, when a compromise viewing angle range is needed, the first voltage signal V1, the second voltage signal V2, and the third voltage signal V3 can all be DC common voltage signals to keep the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 in their initial position, that is, to control the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 13 to be in an initial parallel position, so that the refractive index of the entire first liquid crystal layer 13 is not equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer 112, thereby achieving a compromise viewing angle range.

[0133] Those skilled in the art should understand that the remaining structures and working principles of this embodiment are the same as those of Embodiment 5, and will not be repeated here.

[0134] Figure 21 and Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of the planar structure of the display device in an embodiment of the present invention. Please refer to... Figure 21 and Figure 22The display device is equipped with a viewing angle switching button 50, which allows the user to request a viewing angle switch from the display device. The viewing angle switching button 50 can be a physical button (such as...). Figure 21 As shown), it can also be used for software control or application programs (APP) to implement switching functions (such as... Figure 22 As shown, for example, the wide and narrow viewing angles can be set via a slider. When a user needs to switch between a wide and narrow viewing angle, they can send a viewing angle switching request to the display device by operating the viewing angle switching button 50. Ultimately, the driver chip 60 controls the electrical signals applied to the first viewing angle control electrode 111, the second viewing angle control electrode 121, and the third viewing angle control electrode 122. The display device can then switch between wide and narrow viewing angles. When switching to a wide viewing angle, the driving method used is the driving method corresponding to the wide-angle mode; when switching to a narrow viewing angle, the driving method used is the driving method corresponding to the narrow-angle mode. Therefore, the display device of this embodiment has strong operational flexibility and convenience, achieving a multi-functional display device that integrates entertainment video and privacy protection.

[0135] In this document, the directional terms such as up, down, left, right, front, and back are defined according to the position of the structures in the accompanying drawings and the relative positions of the structures, and are only used for clarity and convenience in expressing the technical solution. It should be understood that the use of these directional terms should not limit the scope of protection claimed in this application. It should also be understood that the terms "first" and "second," etc., used herein are only used for distinction in name and are not used to limit the number or order.

[0136] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way. Although the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art can make some modifications or alterations to the above-disclosed technical content without departing from the scope of the technical solution of the present invention, which are equivalent embodiments with equivalent changes. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the scope of the technical solution of the present invention shall still fall within the protection scope of the technical solution of the present invention.

[0137] Industrial applicability

[0138] In narrow viewing angle mode, the refractive index of the entire first liquid crystal layer is controlled to be equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer. When light enters the refractive layer from the first liquid crystal layer, no refraction occurs, resulting in a small viewing angle range. In wide viewing angle mode, by applying corresponding viewing angle control voltages to the first, second, and third viewing angle control electrodes, the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer are made to be in a disordered and scattered state. At this time, the refractive indices of positive liquid crystal molecules at different tilt angles are different, thus forming different refractive index differences with the refractive layer. Together with the refractive layer, they scatter light, achieving a larger viewing angle range. Therefore, this application can achieve a wide viewing angle effect with a relatively wide viewing angle range even when using a single dimming box. Moreover, the dimming box does not need to be used in conjunction with a polarizer, which greatly reduces the module thickness and the number of polarizers, thereby increasing the light transmittance.

Claims

1. A display panel, characterized in that, It includes a dimming box (10) and a display liquid crystal box (20) stacked on top of each other. A first polarizer (31) is provided between the dimming box (10) and the display liquid crystal box (20). A second polarizer (32) is provided on the side of the display liquid crystal box (20) away from the dimming box (10). The light transmission axis of the first polarizer (31) and the light transmission axis of the second polarizer (32) are perpendicular to each other. The dimming box (10) includes a first substrate (11), a second substrate (12) disposed opposite to the first substrate (11), and a first liquid crystal layer (13) disposed between the first substrate (11) and the second substrate (12). The first substrate (11) has a first viewing angle control electrode (111) and a refractive layer (112) on the side facing the first liquid crystal layer (13). The second substrate (12) has a second viewing angle control electrode (121) and a third viewing angle control electrode (122) cooperating with the first viewing angle control electrode (111) on the side facing the first liquid crystal layer (13). The second viewing angle control electrode (121) includes a plurality of first electrode strips (121a), and the third viewing angle control electrode (122) includes a plurality of second electrode strips (122a). The projections of the first electrode strips (121a) and the second electrode strips (122a) on the second substrate (12) are parallel to each other and alternately arranged. The first substrate (11) has a first alignment layer on the side facing the first liquid crystal layer (13), and the second substrate (12) has a second alignment layer on the side facing the first liquid crystal layer (13). There is an angle between the projection of the first alignment direction of the first alignment layer onto the second substrate (12) and the projection of the second alignment direction of the second alignment layer onto the second substrate (12); or, the first liquid crystal layer (13) uses positive liquid crystal molecules, the first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is between 83° and 90°, and the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is between 83° and 90°; or, the first liquid crystal layer (13) uses positive or negative liquid crystal molecules, the first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is between 83° and 90°, and the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is between 0° and 7°. In the narrow viewing angle mode, the refractive index of the entire first liquid crystal layer (13) is equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer (112); in the wide viewing angle mode, there is a first pressure difference between the first viewing angle control electrode (111) and the second viewing angle control electrode (121), a second pressure difference between the first viewing angle control electrode (111) and the third viewing angle control electrode (122), and a third pressure difference between the second viewing angle control electrode (121) and the third viewing angle control electrode (122). The first pressure difference and the second pressure difference are both greater than a first preset value, and the third pressure difference is greater than or equal to a second preset value, so that the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer (13) are in a disordered and scattered state and together with the refractive layer (112) scatter light.

2. The display panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first angle between the projection of the first alignment direction of the first alignment layer onto the second substrate (12) and the first electrode strip (121a) is between 0 and 20°. The second alignment direction of the second alignment layer is projected onto the second substrate (12) at a second angle between the projection of the second alignment direction onto the second substrate (12) and the first electrode strip (121a) and the second alignment direction is between 0 and 20°.

3. The display panel according to any one of claims 1-2, characterized in that, The refractive layer (112) facing the first liquid crystal layer (13) has a planar structure; or, the refractive layer (112) facing the first liquid crystal layer (13) has multiple protrusions.

4. A driving method for a display panel, characterized in that, The driving method for driving the display panel as described in any one of claims 1-3 includes: A first voltage signal (V1) is applied to the first view control electrode (111), a second voltage signal (V2) is applied to the second view control electrode (121), and a third voltage signal (V3) is applied to the third view control electrode (122). In narrow viewing angle mode, the refractive index of the entire first liquid crystal layer (13) is controlled to be equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer (112); in wide viewing angle mode, there is a first voltage difference between the first voltage signal (V1) and the second voltage signal (V2), a second voltage difference between the first voltage signal (V1) and the third voltage signal (V3), and a third voltage difference between the second voltage signal (V2) and the third voltage signal (V3). At least one of the first voltage difference and the second voltage difference is greater than a first preset value, and the third voltage difference is greater than or equal to a second preset value, so that the liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer (13) are in a disordered and scattered state and together with the refractive layer (112) scatter light.

5. The driving method for a display panel according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first liquid crystal layer (13) uses positive liquid crystal molecules, the first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is between 0 and 7°, the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is between 0 and 7°, and the refractive index of the refractive layer (112) is equal to the refractive index of the first liquid crystal layer (13) in this state. The driving method includes: in the narrow viewing angle mode, the first voltage signal (V1), the second voltage signal (V2) and the third voltage signal (V3) are all DC common voltage signals, so that the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer (13) maintain their initial posture and have the same refractive index as the refractive layer (112); in the wide viewing angle mode, one of the first pressure difference and the second pressure difference is greater than a first preset value, and the other is less than a fourth preset value.

6. The driving method for a display panel according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first liquid crystal layer (13) uses positive liquid crystal molecules, the first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is between 83° and 90°, the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is between 83° and 90°, and the refractive index of the refractive layer (112) is equal to the refractive index of the first liquid crystal layer (13) in this state. The driving method includes: in the narrow viewing angle mode, the first voltage signal (V1), the second voltage signal (V2) and the third voltage signal (V3) are all DC common voltage signals, so that the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer (13) maintain their initial posture and are equal to the refractive index of the refractive layer (112); in the wide viewing angle mode, the first pressure difference and the second pressure difference are both greater than a first preset value.

7. The driving method for a display panel according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first liquid crystal layer (13) uses positive liquid crystal molecules, the first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is between 83° and 90°, the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is between 0° and 7°, and the refractive index of the refractive layer (112) is equal to the refractive index of the first liquid crystal layer (13) when standing. The driving method includes: in a narrow viewing angle mode, there is a fourth voltage difference between the first voltage signal (V1) and the second voltage signal (V2) and between the first voltage signal (V1) and the third voltage signal (V3), the fourth voltage difference being greater than or equal to a third preset value, so that the positive liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer (13) are in an upright posture; in a wide viewing angle mode, both the first voltage difference and the second voltage difference are greater than a first preset value.

8. The driving method for a display panel according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first liquid crystal layer (13) uses negative liquid crystal molecules, the first alignment pretilt angle of the first alignment layer is between 83° and 90°, the second alignment pretilt angle of the second alignment layer is between 0° and 7°, and the refractive index of the refractive layer (112) is equal to the refractive index of the first liquid crystal layer (13) when it is in a flat position. The driving method includes: in a narrow viewing angle mode, there is a fourth voltage difference between the first voltage signal (V1) and the second voltage signal (V2) and between the first voltage signal (V1) and the third voltage signal (V3), the fourth voltage difference being greater than or equal to a third preset value, so that the negative liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer (13) are in a flat position; in a wide viewing angle mode, both the first voltage difference and the second voltage difference are greater than a first preset value.

9. The driving method for a display panel according to any one of claims 6-8, characterized in that, In wide-view mode, the first voltage signal (V1) is a DC common voltage signal, the second voltage signal (V2) is a first AC voltage signal that fluctuates up and down around the DC common voltage signal, and the third voltage signal (V3) is a second AC voltage signal that fluctuates up and down around the DC common voltage signal. The first AC voltage signal and the second AC voltage signal have the same period. At the same time, the polarities of the first AC voltage signal and the second AC voltage signal are opposite; or, the phases of the first AC voltage signal and the second AC voltage signal are offset by 10% to 25% of their periods.

10. A display device, characterized in that, Includes the display panel as described in any one of claims 1-3.

Images