Viewing angle changing film and display device including same

Abstract

A viewing angle changing film and a display device including the same are provided. The viewing angle change film includes a first film, a second film overlapping the first film and spaced apart from the first film, a first electrode on the first film, a second electrode on the second film, and a viewing angle change layer between the first electrode and the second electrode. The viewing angle changing layer includes a plurality of first structures and a plurality of second structures that contain colored particles and are spaced apart from each other. At least one or more of a height, a width, and a shape of the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures are different. Accordingly, various field-of-view characteristics may be satisfied.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a viewing angle variation film and a display device including the same, and more particularly, to a viewing angle variation film satisfying various viewing field characteristics and a display device including the same. Background Art

[0002] According to the growing demand for personal privacy protection, various related products are being developed in different fields. Among the products that guarantee personal privacy, the demand for viewing angle changing films attached to various displays such as cellular phones, tablet personal computers (PCs), monitors, or displays for vehicles to block lateral light transmission and narrow the viewing angle and display devices including the same is increasing year by year.

[0003] In this regard, in the related art, a film-type viewing angle changing film in which light-transmitting areas through which light is transmitted and light-blocking areas that block light in a specific direction are alternately formed has been used. The viewing angle changing film of the related art includes a transmission area and a light blocking area arranged between the transmission areas to block or absorb light. The light blocking area includes a black pigment. Among the light incident from the bottom, the light having an incident angle equal to or greater than a predetermined angle is absorbed or blocked by the repeatedly formed light blocking areas, so that the light cannot pass through the viewing angle changing film. By doing so, at a viewing angle equal to or greater than a predetermined angle, the transmittance is significantly reduced, making the picture invisible. However, the inconvenience of the viewing angle changing film of the related art is that if the film itself is not removed, the viewing angle will not be restored to the existing state, so that the film needs to be removed. Summary of the invention

[0004] Another benefit to be achieved by the present disclosure is to provide a viewing angle varying film and a display device that meet various viewing field characteristics.

[0005] The benefit to be achieved by the present disclosure is to provide a viewing angle varying film that can be applied to various display devices.

[0006] The benefits of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned benefits, and other benefits not mentioned above can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

[0007] In one embodiment, a viewing angle variation film includes: a first film; a second film overlapping the first film and spaced apart from the first film; a first electrode on the first film; a second electrode on the second film so that the second electrode is between the second film and the first electrode; and a viewing angle variation layer between the first electrode and the second electrode, the viewing angle variation layer including a plurality of first structures and a plurality of second structures spaced apart from each other, and each of the plurality of first structures and each of the plurality of second structures including colored particles, wherein at least one or more of the height, width or shape of the first structure in the plurality of first structures is different from the height, width or shape of the second structure in the plurality of second structures, respectively. Therefore, various viewing field characteristics can be satisfied.

[0008] In one embodiment, a display device includes: a display panel configured to emit light; and a viewing angle changing film on the display panel, the viewing angle changing film including a plurality of first structures and a plurality of second structures spaced apart from each other, and each of the plurality of first structures and each of the plurality of second structures including colored particles, wherein, in a first mode of the display device, the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures are configured to block light emitted by the display panel from passing through the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures, wherein, in a second mode of the display device, the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures are configured to allow light emitted by the display panel to pass through the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures, and wherein, in a third mode of the display device, at least one of the plurality of first structures or at least one of the plurality of second structures is configured to allow light emitted by the display panel to pass through at least one first structure or at least one second structure at a first viewing angle, and the other of the at least one first structure or the at least one second structure is configured to block light emitted by the display panel.

[0009] Additional details of example embodiments are included in the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

[0010] The effects according to the present disclosure are not limited to the above-exemplified contents, and more various effects are included in the present specification. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The above and other aspects, features and other advantages of the present disclosure will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0012] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a viewing angle varying film according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 2 is a plan view of a second electrode of a viewing angle variation film according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 3AAccording to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line AA';

[0015] Figure 3B and Figure 3C is a diagram for explaining a plurality of first structures and a plurality of second structures of a viewing angle variation film according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 3D is a diagram for explaining a viewing angle mode of a viewing angle varying film according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a viewing angle varying film according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 5A and Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view of a viewing angle varying film according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] Fig. 6A and Figure 6B is a diagram for explaining an example of using a viewing angle variation film according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0020] Fig. 7A and Figure 7B is a cross-sectional view of a viewing angle varying film according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] Fig. 8A and Figure 8B is a cross-sectional view of a viewing angle varying film according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] 9A to 9C is a cross-sectional view of a viewing angle varying film according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B is a cross-sectional view of a viewing angle varying film according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Fig.11A and Fig. 11B is a cross-sectional view of a viewing angle varying film according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B is a cross-sectional view of a viewing angle varying film according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Fig.13A and Fig. 13B is a cross-sectional view of a viewing angle varying film according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C is a cross-sectional view of a viewing angle varying film according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Fig.15 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Fig.16 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0030] Fig.17A and Fig. 17B is a diagram for explaining an example in which a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is used according to a body shape of a user. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] By referring to the exemplary embodiments described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, the advantages and characteristics of the present disclosure and the methods for achieving these advantages and characteristics will become clear. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, but will be implemented in various forms. The exemplary embodiments are provided only by way of example so that those skilled in the art can fully understand the disclosure of the present disclosure and the scope of the present disclosure.

[0032] The shapes, sizes, ratios, angles, quantities, etc. illustrated in the accompanying drawings for describing the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are merely examples, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Throughout this specification, the same reference numerals generally indicate the same elements. In addition, in the following description of the present disclosure, a detailed description of known related technologies may be omitted or may be briefly provided to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the subject matter of the present disclosure. Terms such as "including", "having", and "comprising" used herein are generally intended to allow the addition of other components unless the term is used together with the term "only". Unless otherwise expressly stated, any reference to the singular may include the plural.

[0033] Even if not explicitly stated, the components are interpreted as including ordinary error ranges.

[0034] When terms such as “on,” “over,” “below,” and “beside” are used to describe the positional relationship between two parts, one or more parts may be located between the two parts unless the terms are used with the terms “just” or “directly.”

[0035] When an element or a layer is referred to as being “on” another element or layer, the other layer or element may be directly interposed on or between the other element.

[0036] Although the terms "first", "second", etc. are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from other components. Therefore, in the technical concept of the present disclosure, the first component to be mentioned below may be the second component.

[0037] Like reference numerals generally refer to like elements throughout the specification.

[0038] The sizes and thicknesses of various components illustrated in the drawings are illustrated for convenience of description, and the present disclosure is not limited to the illustrated sizes and thicknesses of the components.

[0039] The features of the various embodiments of the present disclosure may be partially or completely dependent on or combined with each other, and may be interlocked and operated in various ways technically, and the embodiments may be implemented independently or in association with each other.

[0040] Hereinafter, a viewing angle variation film and a display device including the same according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0041] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a viewing angle varying film according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 is a plan view of a second electrode of a viewing angle variation film according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3A According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line AA'. Figure 3B and Figure 3C is a diagram for explaining a plurality of first structures and a plurality of second structures of a viewing angle variation film according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3A , for convenience of description, it is illustrated that the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142 are driven as the light blocking unit, and the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142 are illustrated in black.

[0042] First, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 3A The viewing angle variation film 100 may include: a first film 110, a first electrode 120 on the first film 110, an adhesive layer 130 on the first electrode 120, a viewing angle variation layer 140 on the adhesive layer 130, a second electrode 150 on the viewing angle variation layer 140, and a second film 160 on the second electrode 150. Figure 3A As shown, the second film 160 is spaced apart from the first film 110 and the second electrode 150 is on the second film 160 , such that the second electrode 150 is between the second film 160 and the first electrode 120 .

[0043] The first film 110 is a film that supports the components disposed above the viewing angle variation film 100, and may be an insulating film. For example, the first film 110 may be formed of glass, resin, etc. In addition, the first film 110 may include a polymer or plastic. In some exemplary embodiments, the first film 110 may be formed of a flexible plastic material. For example, the first film 110 may be formed of any one of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyether sulfone (PES), cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), triacetyl cellulose (TAC) film, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film, polyimide (PI) film, and polystyrene (PS), but is not limited thereto. In addition, the first film 110 may be transparent to allow light to pass through.

[0044] The first electrode 120 may be disposed on the first film 110. The first electrode 120 may apply a voltage to the viewing angle change layer 140, and specifically, to the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142. Therefore, the first electrode 120 may be disposed to overlap all of the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142. The first electrode 120 may be formed of a transparent conductive material to allow light to pass therethrough. The first electrode 120 may be formed of indium tin oxide (ITO), but is not limited thereto.

[0045] The adhesive layer 130 may be disposed on the first electrode 120. The adhesive layer 130 may use an optically clear adhesive (OCA) to allow light to pass therethrough, but is not limited thereto.

[0046] The viewing angle changing layer 140 may be disposed on the adhesive layer 130. The viewing angle changing layer 140 may be a switchable layer that selectively adjusts the viewing angle by applying an electrical signal. The viewing angle changing layer 140 may include: a plurality of first structures 141, a plurality of second structures 142, and a transparent layer 145 on the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142.

[0047] The plurality of first structures 141, the plurality of second structures 142 and the transparent layer 145 may be arranged alternately along one direction. Figure 3A As shown, the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142 may be alternately arranged from one side.

[0048] The plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142 may be alternately disposed to be spaced apart from each other at predetermined intervals. At this time, the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142 may be disposed to extend in the same or substantially the same direction on a plane.

[0049] like Figure 3B and Figure 3C As shown, the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142 include: a polymer 140a, a plurality of droplets 140b dispersed in the polymer 140a, and a plurality of colored particles 140c dispersed in the plurality of droplets 140b. The plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142 may be composed of polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC), but are not limited thereto.

[0050] The polymer may be formed of a solid so that the plurality of droplets do not fall and are uniformly dispersed in each of the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142. That is, the remaining portions of the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142 except for the droplets may be in a solid state.

[0051] The plurality of droplets are spherical droplets, and may be respectively dispersed in the polymer in the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142. Therefore, the plurality of droplets may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other in the polymer.

[0052] The plurality of colored particles are dispersed in the plurality of droplets. In addition, the alignment direction of the colored particles can be changed depending on whether a voltage is applied to the viewing angle change layer 140, so that the plurality of first structures 141 or the plurality of second structures 142 are switched to a light transmitting unit or a light blocking unit depending on whether a voltage is applied.

[0053] Reference Figure 3B First, when no voltage is applied to the colored particles 140c, the colored particles 140c may be randomly aligned in the droplet 140b along a first alignment direction (e.g., a first direction). At this time, the randomly aligned colored particles 140c and the polymer 140a have different refractive indices, so that light may be scattered from the interface between the colored particles 140c and the polymer 140a. That is, light may not pass through the plurality of first structures 141 or the plurality of second structures 142. At this time, the plurality of first structures 141 or the plurality of second structures 142 may serve as a light blocking unit.

[0054] On the contrary, refer to Figure 3C , when a voltage is applied to the colored particles 140c, the colored particles 140c are aligned in the droplet 140b along a second alignment direction (e.g., a second direction) that is predetermined and different from the first alignment direction, and the refractive index of the colored particles 140c relative to the direction in which the light passes is changed. Therefore, the refractive index of the colored particles 140c and the polymer 140a becomes the same or there is basically no difference in the refractive index. Therefore, the light incident on the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142 can pass through the plurality of first structures 141 or the plurality of second structures 142. That is, at this time, the plurality of first structures 141 or the plurality of second structures 142 can be used as a light transmission unit.

[0055] At this time, in order to not only switch the viewing angle changing layer 140 to a light transmitting unit or a light blocking unit but also change the viewing angle, the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142 may be configured differently. Specifically, at least one or more of the heights, widths, and shapes of the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142 may be different. Figure 3A For example, the cross-sectional shapes of the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142 may be rectangles having the same or substantially the same width but different heights. Thus, the structures in which at least one or more of the height, width, and shape are different according to the requested viewing angle characteristics are driven as light transmitting units or light blocking units, so that various viewing angle modes can be realized. Figure 3D This is described in detail.

[0056] The transparent layer 145 may be formed of a transparent light-transmitting material. The transparent layer 145 may transmit light incident on the first film 110 or the second film 160 to different film directions. The transparent layer 145 may be formed of, for example, UV resin, transparent photoresist resin, polyurethane resin, or acrylic resin, but is not limited thereto.

[0057] Refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3A , the second electrode 150 may be disposed on the viewing angle variation layer 140. The second electrode 150 may include a first sub-electrode 150a and a second sub-electrode 150b.

[0058] Specifically, the first sub-electrode 150a is arranged to overlap with the plurality of first structures 141 without overlapping with the second structure 142, so as to apply a voltage to the colored particles of the plurality of first structures 141. That is, the plurality of first structures 141 can be driven as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit depending on whether a voltage is applied to the first sub-electrode 150a. The second sub-electrode 150b is arranged to overlap with the plurality of second structures 142 without overlapping with the first structure 141, so as to apply a voltage to the colored particles of the plurality of second structures 142. That is, the plurality of second structures 142 can be driven as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit depending on whether a voltage is applied to the second sub-electrode 150b. Therefore, the first sub-electrode 150a and the second sub-electrode 150b of the second electrode 150 can be alternately arranged on a plane.

[0059] The second electrode 150 may be formed of a transparent conductive material to allow light to pass therethrough, like the first electrode 120. The second electrode 150 may be formed of indium tin oxide (ITO), but is not limited thereto.

[0060] Reference Figure 3A, the second film 160 may be disposed on the second electrode 150. The second film 160 is a film that supports the components disposed below the second film 160, and may be an insulating film. For example, the second film 160 may be formed of glass, resin, etc. In addition, the second film 160 may include a polymer or plastic. In some exemplary embodiments, the second film 160 may be formed of a flexible plastic material. For example, the second film 160 may be formed of any one of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyether sulfone (PES), cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), triacetyl cellulose (TAC) film, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film, polyimide (PI) film, and polystyrene (PS), but is not limited thereto. In addition, the second film 160 may be transparent to allow light to pass through.

[0061] Figure 3D is a diagram for explaining a viewing angle mode of a viewing angle varying film according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3D In the above-mentioned viewing angle change film 100 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, when all the multiple first structures 141 and the multiple second structures 142 are used as light blocking units, it is illustrated as the first mode Mode1. When the multiple first structures 141 are used as light blocking units and the multiple second structures 142 are used as light transmitting units, it is illustrated as the second mode Mode2. When the multiple first structures 141 are used as light transmitting units and the multiple second structures 142 are used as light blocking units, it is illustrated as the third mode Mode3. When all the multiple first structures 141 and the multiple second structures 142 are used as light transmitting units, it is illustrated as the fourth mode Mode4. For the convenience of description, when the multiple first structures or the multiple second structures are driven as light blocking units, they are illustrated in black, and when the multiple first structures or the multiple second structures are driven as light transmitting units, they are illustrated in white. In Figure 3D In FIG. 1 , the upper image is a diagram illustrating light transmittance according to viewing angles, and the darker the shade, the higher the transmittance, and the lighter the shade, the lower the transmittance. In addition, for ease of description, even if only Figure 3D The viewing angle variable film 100 illustrated at the lower side of the first mode Mode1 is indicated by a reference numeral, and the viewing angle variable film illustrated at the lower side of the second mode Mode2, the third mode Mode3, and the fourth mode Mode4 also includes the same or substantially the same configuration as the viewing angle variable film illustrated at the lower side of the first mode Mode1. That is, the configurations of the viewing angle variable film illustrated at the lower side of the second mode Mode2, the third mode Mode3, and the fourth mode Mode4 respectively correspond to the configurations of the viewing angle variable film illustrated at the lower side of the first mode Mode1.

[0062] In the first mode Mode1, no voltage is applied to both the first sub-electrode 150a and the second sub-electrode 150b, so that all the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142 can be used as light blocking units. That is, light passes through the transparent layer 145 but not through the first structure 141 and the second structure 142, so that the narrowest viewing angle can be achieved in the first mode Mode1.

[0063] In the second mode Mode2, no voltage is applied to the first sub-electrode 150a, so that the plurality of first structures 141 can be used as a light blocking unit. On the contrary, a voltage is applied to the plurality of second structures 142 through the second sub-electrode 150b, so that the plurality of second structures 142 can be used as a light transmitting unit. That is, light passes through the plurality of second structures 142 and the transparent layer 145, so that in the second mode Mode2, a viewing angle wider than that of the first mode Mode1 can be achieved.

[0064] In the third mode Mode3, no voltage is applied to the second sub-electrode 150b, so that the plurality of second structures 142 can be used as a light blocking unit. In contrast, a voltage is applied to the plurality of first structures 141 instead of the second structures 142 through the first sub-electrode 150a, so that the plurality of first structures 141 can be used as a light transmission unit. That is, light is transmitted through the plurality of first structures 141 and the transparent layer 145. At this time, unlike the second mode Mode2 in which the plurality of first structures 141 are used as a light blocking unit, in the third mode Mode3, the plurality of second structures 142 lower than the plurality of first structures 141 are used as a light blocking unit, so that the area where light is blocked can be smaller. Therefore, in the third mode Mode3, a viewing angle wider than that of the second mode Mode2 can be achieved.

[0065] In the fourth mode Mode 4, voltage is applied to both the first sub-electrode 150a and the second sub-electrode 150b, so that all the first structures 141 and the second structures 142 can be used as light transmission units. That is, light is transmitted through the entire viewing angle change layer 140, so that in the fourth mode Mode 4, the widest viewing angle can be achieved.

[0066] For personal privacy, there is an increasing demand for viewing angle varying films attached to various displays such as cellular phones, tablet PCs, monitors, or displays for vehicles to block light transmission in a specific direction and narrow the viewing angle, and display devices including the same.

[0067] In addition, the viewing angle changing film can be used in various environments depending on the user. For example, the viewing angle changing film can be used during the day or at night, and can be applied to various environments when the user requires a specific viewing angle or requires improved visibility depending on the purpose of use. At this time, in order to meet various viewing angle characteristics according to the requirements of the user, it is difficult to manufacture various molds suitable therefor.

[0068] Therefore, in the viewing angle change film 100 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the viewing angle change layer 140 includes a plurality of first structures 141 and a plurality of second structures 142 having different heights. At this time, the plurality of first structures 141 can be driven individually by the first sub-electrode 150a, and the plurality of second structures 142 can be driven individually by the second sub-electrode 150b. Therefore, in the viewing angle change film according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of first structures 141 or the plurality of second structures 142 can be selectively used as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit. Therefore, various viewing angle characteristics according to the requirements of users can be met.

[0069] That is, in the viewing angle changing film 100 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the viewing angle changing layer 140 includes a plurality of first structures 141 and a plurality of second structures 142 that are different from each other. Therefore, in the viewing angle changing film 100 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142 are designed to have different heights, so that viewing angles in various modes can be achieved. Therefore, it is not necessary to manufacture various molds according to the requirements of the user, thereby saving manufacturing costs.

[0070] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a viewing angle varying film according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 The viewing angle changing film 200 and Figures 1 to 3C The difference of the viewing angle change film 100 is that there are a plurality of third structures 243 in the configuration of the viewing angle change layer 240 and a third sub-electrode 250c in the configuration of the second electrode 250. However, the other components are substantially the same, so that a redundant description will be omitted or may be briefly provided. Figure 4 In FIG. 1 , for convenience of description, it is illustrated that the plurality of first structures 141 , the plurality of second structures 142 , and the plurality of third structures 243 are driven as the light blocking unit, and they are illustrated in black.

[0071] Reference Figure 4 The viewing angle changing layer 240 may include: a plurality of first structures 141 , a plurality of second structures 142 , a plurality of third structures 243 and a transparent layer 145 .

[0072] The plurality of first structures 141, the plurality of second structures 142, the plurality of third structures 243 and the transparent layer 145 may be alternately disposed along one direction. That is, the plurality of first structures 141, the plurality of second structures 142 and the plurality of third structures 243 may be alternately disposed from one side.

[0073] The plurality of first structures 141, the plurality of second structures 142 and the plurality of third structures 243 may be alternately disposed to be spaced apart from each other at predetermined intervals. At this time, the plurality of first structures 141, the plurality of second structures 142 and the plurality of third structures 243 may be disposed to extend in the same or substantially the same direction on a plane.

[0074] Similar to the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142, the plurality of third structures 243 include: a polymer, a plurality of droplets dispersed in the polymer, and a plurality of colored particles dispersed in the plurality of droplets. That is, the plurality of first structures 141, the plurality of second structures 142, and the plurality of third structures 243 may be composed of polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC), but are not limited thereto. That is, similar to the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142, the plurality of third structures 243 may also be switched to a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit depending on whether a voltage is applied.

[0075] At this time, in order to not only switch the viewing angle change layer 240 to a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit, but also change the viewing angle, the plurality of first structures 141, the plurality of second structures 142, and the plurality of third structures 243 may be configured differently. Specifically, the cross-sectional shapes of the plurality of first structures 141, the plurality of second structures 142, and the plurality of third structures 243 may be rectangles having the same or substantially the same width but different heights. That is, according to the requested viewing angle characteristics, the plurality of first structures 141, the plurality of second structures 142, or the plurality of third structures 243 having different heights are driven as light transmission units or light blocking units, so that various viewing angle modes can be achieved. For example, without driving the second structure 142 and the third structure 243, the plurality of first structures 141 having the maximum height may be driven as a light blocking unit. At this time, compared with the case where the plurality of second structures 142 or the plurality of third structures 243 are driven as a light blocking unit, a narrower viewing angle may be achieved. In addition, without driving the first structure 141 and the second structure 142, the plurality of third structures 243 having the minimum height may be driven as a light blocking unit. At this time, compared with the case where the plurality of first structures 141 or the plurality of second structures 142 are driven as the light blocking unit, a wider viewing angle may be achieved.

[0076] The second electrode 250 may be disposed on the viewing angle variation layer 240. The second electrode 250 may include a first sub-electrode 150a, a second sub-electrode 150b, and a third sub-electrode 250c.

[0077] Specifically, the first sub-electrode 150a is arranged to overlap with the plurality of first structures 141 without overlapping with the second structure 142 and the third structure 243, so as to apply a voltage to the colored particles of the plurality of first structures 141. That is, the plurality of first structures 141 can be driven as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit depending on whether a voltage is applied to the first sub-electrode 150a. The second sub-electrode 150b is arranged to overlap with the plurality of second structures 142 without overlapping with the first structure 141 and the third structure 243, so as to apply a voltage to the colored particles of the plurality of second structures 142. That is, the plurality of second structures 142 can be driven as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit depending on whether a voltage is applied to the second sub-electrode 150b. The third sub-electrode 250c is arranged to overlap with the plurality of third structures 243 without overlapping with the first structure 141 and the second structure 142, so as to apply a voltage to the colored particles of the plurality of third structures 243. That is, the plurality of third structures 243 can be driven as a light transmitting unit or a light blocking unit depending on whether a voltage is applied to the third sub-electrode 250c. Therefore, the first sub-electrode 150a, the second sub-electrode 150b and the third sub-electrode 250c of the second electrode 250 can be alternately arranged on a plane.

[0078] In the viewing angle change film 200 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the viewing angle change layer 240 further includes not only a plurality of first structures 141 and a plurality of second structures 142 having different heights, but also a plurality of third structures 243. At this time, the plurality of first structures 141 can be driven individually by the first sub-electrode 150a, the plurality of second structures 142 can be driven individually by the second sub-electrode 150b, and the plurality of third structures 243 can be driven individually by the third sub-electrode 250c. Therefore, in the viewing angle change film 200 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, not only the plurality of first structures 141 or the plurality of second structures 142, but also the plurality of third structures 243 can be selectively used as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit. Therefore, various viewing angle characteristics according to the requirements of the user can be met. That is, it is not necessary to manufacture various molds according to the requirements of the user, thereby saving manufacturing costs.

[0079] Figure 5A and Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view of a viewing angle varying film according to still another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5A The viewing angle changing film 300 and Figures 1 to 3D The only difference between the viewing angle changing film 100 and the viewing angle changing film 100 is the height and width of the plurality of second structures 342 in the configuration of the viewing angle changing layer 340. However, the other components are substantially the same, so that redundant descriptions will be omitted or may be briefly provided. Figure 5A, for convenience of description, it is illustrated that the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 342 are driven as the light blocking unit, and the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 342 are illustrated in black. Figure 5B The viewing angle changing film 400 and Figure 5A The difference of the viewing angle change film 300 is that there are a plurality of third structures 443 in the configuration of the viewing angle change layer 440 and there is a third sub-electrode 250c in the configuration of the second electrode 250. However, the other components are substantially the same, so that a redundant description will be omitted or may be briefly provided. Figure 5B , for convenience of description, it is illustrated that the plurality of first structures 141, the plurality of second structures 342, and the plurality of third structures 443 are driven as the light blocking unit, and they are illustrated in black.

[0080] Reference Figure 5A For example, the cross-sectional shapes of the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 342 may be rectangles having the same or substantially the same height but different widths. For example, the width of the cross-sectional area of ​​the plurality of first structures 141 may be greater than the width of the plurality of second structures 342. That is, when a voltage is applied only to the second sub-electrode 150b of the second electrode 150 so that the plurality of first structures 141 function as a light blocking unit, a narrower viewing angle may be achieved compared to a case where a voltage is applied to the first sub-electrode 150a so that the plurality of second structures 342 function as a light blocking unit.

[0081] That is, in the viewing angle change film 300 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the viewing angle change layer 340 includes a plurality of first structures 141 and a plurality of second structures 342 having different widths. At this time, the plurality of first structures 141 can be driven individually by the first sub-electrode 150a, and the plurality of second structures 342 can be driven individually by the second sub-electrode 150b. Therefore, in the viewing angle change film 300 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of first structures 141 or the plurality of second structures 342 can be selectively used as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit. Therefore, various viewing angle characteristics according to the user's requirements can be met. That is, it is not necessary to manufacture various molds according to the user's requirements, thereby saving manufacturing costs.

[0082] Reference Figure 5B The viewing angle changing layer 440 may include: a plurality of first structures 141 , a plurality of second structures 342 , a plurality of third structures 443 and a transparent layer 145 .

[0083] The plurality of first structures 141, the plurality of second structures 342, the plurality of third structures 443 and the transparent layer 145 may be alternately disposed along one direction. That is, the plurality of first structures 141, the plurality of second structures 342 and the plurality of third structures 443 may be alternately disposed from one side.

[0084] The plurality of first structures 141, the plurality of second structures 342, and the plurality of third structures 443 may be alternately disposed to be spaced apart from each other at predetermined intervals. At this time, the plurality of first structures 141, the plurality of second structures 342, the plurality of third structures 443, and the transparent layer 145 may be disposed to extend in the same or substantially the same direction on a plane.

[0085] Similar to the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 342, the plurality of third structures 443 include: a polymer, a plurality of droplets dispersed in the polymer, and a plurality of colored particles dispersed in the plurality of droplets. That is, the plurality of first structures 141, the plurality of second structures 342, and the plurality of third structures 443 may be composed of polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC), but are not limited thereto. That is, similar to the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 342, the plurality of third structures 443 may also be switched to a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit depending on whether a voltage is applied.

[0086] At this time, in order to not only switch the viewing angle changing layer 440 to a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit, but also change the viewing angle, the plurality of first structures 141, the plurality of second structures 342, and the plurality of third structures 443 may be configured differently. Specifically, the cross-sectional shapes of the plurality of first structures 141, the plurality of second structures 342, and the plurality of third structures 443 may be rectangles having the same or substantially the same height but different widths. That is, depending on the requested viewing angle characteristics, the plurality of first structures 141, the plurality of second structures 342, or the plurality of third structures 443 having different heights are driven as light transmission units or light blocking units, so that various viewing angle modes can be achieved. For example, without driving the second structures 342 and the third structures 443, the plurality of first structures 141 having the largest width may be driven as light blocking units. At this time, a narrower viewing angle can be achieved compared to the case where only the plurality of second structures 342 or the plurality of third structures 443 are driven as light blocking units. In addition, without driving the first structure 141 and the second structure 342, only the plurality of third structures 443 having the smallest width may be driven as a light blocking unit. At this time, a wider viewing angle may be achieved compared to the case where the plurality of first structures 141 or the plurality of second structures 342 are driven as a light blocking unit.

[0087] The second electrode 250 may be disposed on the viewing angle variation layer 440. The second electrode 250 may include a first sub-electrode 150a, a second sub-electrode 150b, and a third sub-electrode 250c.

[0088] Specifically, the first sub-electrode 150a is arranged to overlap with the plurality of first structures 141 without overlapping with the second structure 342 and the third structure 443, so as to apply a voltage to the colored particles of the plurality of first structures 141. That is, the plurality of first structures 141 can be driven as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit depending on whether a voltage is applied to the first sub-electrode 150a. The second sub-electrode 150b is arranged to overlap with the plurality of second structures 342 without overlapping with the first structure 141 and the third structure 443, so as to apply a voltage to the colored particles of the plurality of second structures 342. That is, the plurality of second structures 342 can be driven as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit depending on whether a voltage is applied to the second sub-electrode 150b. The third sub-electrode 250c is arranged to overlap with the plurality of third structures 443 without overlapping with the first structure 141 and the second structure 342, so as to apply a voltage to the colored particles of the plurality of third structures 443. That is, the plurality of third structures 443 can be driven as a light transmitting unit or a light blocking unit depending on whether a voltage is applied to the third sub-electrode 250c. Therefore, the first sub-electrode 150a, the second sub-electrode 150b and the third sub-electrode 250c of the second electrode 250 can be alternately arranged on a plane.

[0089] In the viewing angle change film 400 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the viewing angle change layer 440 further includes not only a plurality of first structures 141 and a plurality of second structures 342 having different widths, but also a plurality of third structures 443. At this time, the plurality of first structures 141 can be driven individually by the first sub-electrode 150a, the plurality of second structures 342 can be driven individually by the second sub-electrode 150b, and the plurality of third structures 443 can be driven individually by the third sub-electrode 250c. Therefore, in the viewing angle change film 400 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, not only the plurality of first structures 141 or the plurality of second structures 342, but also the plurality of third structures 443 can be selectively used as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit. Therefore, various viewing angle characteristics according to the requirements of the user can be met. That is, it is not necessary to manufacture various molds according to the requirements of the user, thereby saving manufacturing costs.

[0090] Fig. 6A and Figure 6B is a diagram for explaining an example of using the viewing angle variation film according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0091] Reference Fig. 6AThe viewing angle varying film 100 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure can be applied to the instrument panel CL, the central information display CID, and the co-driver display CDD in the vehicle. In addition, even if not illustrated in the figure, the viewing angle varying film 100 can be applied to the interior of the vehicle that provides information to the driver, such as a side mirror or a head-up display.

[0092] Refer to Figure 6B In the viewing angle variation film 100 applied to the instrument panel CL and the central information display CID, the first viewing angle VA1 can be realized according to the eye height of the user. That is, when Figure 6B When the center of the outermost circle is 0°, a viewing angle narrowed to a range of -20° to 10° can be achieved.

[0093] In addition, if Fig. 6A As shown, the co-pilot display CDD is usually arranged on the instrument panel, so that in the viewing angle variation film 100 applied to the co-pilot display CDD, the second viewing angle VA2 can be realized. Figure 6B When the center of the outermost circle is 0°, the viewing angle can be reduced to a range of -10° to 20°. Fig. 6A In the example, the central information display CID is set below the instrument panel, and the central information display CID can also be set on the instrument panel. In this case, the second viewing angle VA2 can be achieved according to the user's eye height.

[0094] Fig. 7A and Figure 7B is a cross-sectional view of a viewing angle varying film according to still another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 7A The viewing angle changing film 500 and Figures 1 to 3D The only difference between the viewing angle varying film 100 and the viewing angle varying film 100 is the width, height and shape of the plurality of first structures 541 and the plurality of second structures 542 in the configuration of the viewing angle varying layer 540. However, other components are substantially the same, so that a redundant description will be omitted or may be briefly provided. Figure 7B The viewing angle changing film 600 and Fig. 7A The only difference between the viewing angle changing film 500 and the viewing angle changing film 500 is the width of the plurality of second structures 642 in the configuration of the viewing angle changing layer 640. However, the other components are substantially the same, so that redundant descriptions will be omitted or may be briefly provided. Fig. 7A In FIG. 5 , it is illustrated that the plurality of first structures 541 are driven as a light blocking unit and the plurality of second structures 542 are driven as a light transmitting unit, and the plurality of first structures 541 are illustrated in black and the plurality of second structures 542 are illustrated in white. Figure 7B, for convenience of description, it is illustrated that the plurality of first structures 541 and the plurality of second structures 642 are driven as a light blocking unit, and the plurality of first structures 541 and the plurality of second structures 642 are illustrated in black.

[0095] Reference Fig. 7A For example, the cross-sectional shapes of the plurality of first structures 541 and the plurality of second structures 542 may be trapezoidal and rectangular, respectively. Fig. 7A , the cross-sectional shape of the plurality of first structures 541 is a trapezoid, and the cross-sectional shape of the plurality of second structures 542 is a rectangle. In contrast, the cross-sectional shape of the plurality of first structures 541 may be a rectangle, and the cross-sectional shape of the plurality of second structures 542 may be a trapezoid. In this case, the heights of the plurality of first structures 541 and the plurality of second structures 542 may be the same or substantially the same.

[0096] Specifically, one of the side surfaces of the plurality of first structures 541 may be perpendicular to the bottom surface, and the other side surface may be inclined relative to the bottom surface. Fig. 7A , the left surface of the plurality of first structures 541 may be perpendicular to the bottom surface, and the right surface may be inclined relative to the bottom surface. In addition, the width of the top surface of the plurality of first structures 541 may be smaller than the width of the bottom surface of the plurality of first structures 541. That is, when only the plurality of first structures 541 are driven as light blocking units without driving the second structures 542, the moving direction of light passing through the viewing angle variation film 500 may be changed as follows: Fig. 7A However, when the plurality of second structures 542 are driven as light blocking units without driving the first structures 541, the moving direction of light passing through the viewing angle variation film 500 can be adjusted to the center direction. That is, the plurality of first structures 541 and the plurality of second structures 542 having different shapes are arranged to adjust the viewing angle to a specific direction.

[0097] In addition, the widths of the top and bottom surfaces of the plurality of second structures 542 may be equal to the width of the bottom surfaces of the plurality of first structures 541 , but are not limited thereto.

[0098] That is, in the viewing angle change film 500 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the viewing angle change layer 540 includes a plurality of first structures 541 and a plurality of second structures 542 having different shapes. At this time, the plurality of first structures 541 can be driven individually by the first sub-electrode 150a, and the plurality of second structures 542 can be driven individually by the second sub-electrode 150b. Therefore, in the viewing angle change film 500 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of first structures 541 or the plurality of second structures 542 can be selectively used as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit. Therefore, various viewing angle characteristics according to the user's requirements can be met. That is, it is not necessary to manufacture various molds according to the user's requirements, thereby saving manufacturing costs.

[0099] Specifically, in the viewing angle changing film 500 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the viewing angle changing layer 540 includes a plurality of first structures 541 having a trapezoidal cross section. That is, the left and right surfaces of the plurality of first structures 541 may be asymmetric. Therefore, the light passing through the viewing angle changing layer 540 may be tilted in a specific direction. Therefore, in the viewing angle changing film 500 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the viewing angle may be adjusted to a specific direction.

[0100] Reference Figure 7B , the cross-section of the plurality of second structures 642 is rectangular, so that the width of the top and bottom surfaces of the plurality of second structures 642 may be equal to the width of the top surface of the plurality of first structures 541, but is not limited thereto. That is, Figure 7B The area of ​​the plurality of second structures 642 of the viewing angle variation film 600 may be smaller than Fig. 7A The area of ​​the plurality of second structures of the viewing angle variation film 500 is Figure 7B When the plurality of second structures 642 of the viewing angle variation film 600 are driven as light blocking units, a wider viewing angle can be achieved.

[0101] That is, in the viewing angle change film 600 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the viewing angle change layer 640 includes a plurality of first structures 541 and a plurality of second structures 642 having different shapes and different widths. At this time, the plurality of first structures 541 can be driven individually by the first sub-electrode 150a, and the plurality of second structures 642 can be driven individually by the second sub-electrode 150b. Therefore, in the viewing angle change film 600 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of first structures 541 or the plurality of second structures 642 can be selectively used as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit. Therefore, various viewing angle characteristics according to the user's requirements can be met. That is, it is not necessary to manufacture various molds according to the user's requirements, thereby saving manufacturing costs.

[0102] Specifically, in the viewing angle changing film 600 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the viewing angle changing layer 640 includes a plurality of first structures 541 having a trapezoidal cross section. That is, the left and right surfaces of the plurality of first structures 541 may be asymmetric. Therefore, the light passing through the viewing angle changing layer 640 may be tilted in a specific direction. That is, the viewing angle may be adjusted to a specific direction.

[0103] Fig. 8A and Figure 8B is a cross-sectional view of a viewing angle variation film according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 8A In the viewing angle variation film 700, only the height of the plurality of second structures 742 is different from Fig. 7A The heights of the plurality of second structures of the viewing angle variation film 500 are different, but the other components are substantially the same, so that redundant descriptions will be omitted or may be briefly provided. Fig. 8A , for convenience of description, it is illustrated that the plurality of first structures 541 and the plurality of second structures 742 are driven as a light blocking unit, and the plurality of first structures 541 and the plurality of second structures 742 are illustrated in black. Figure 8B The viewing angle changing film 800 and Fig. 8A The difference of the viewing angle change film 700 is that there are a plurality of third structures 843 in the configuration of the viewing angle change layer 840, and there is a third sub-electrode 250c in the configuration of the second electrode 250. However, the other components are substantially the same, so that a redundant description will be omitted or may be briefly provided. Figure 8B , for convenience of description, it is illustrated that the plurality of first structures 541, the plurality of second structures 742, and the plurality of third structures 843 are driven as the light blocking unit, and they are illustrated in black.

[0104] Reference Fig. 8A For example, the cross-sectional shape of the plurality of first structures 541 may be a trapezoid, and the cross-sectional shape of the plurality of second structures 742 may be a rectangle. At this time, the height of the plurality of second structures 742 may be lower than the height of the plurality of first structures 541.

[0105] That is, depending on the requested viewing angle characteristics, a plurality of first structures 541 or a plurality of second structures 742 having different shapes or heights are driven as light transmission units or light blocking units, so that various viewing angle modes can be achieved. That is, when the plurality of first structures 541 are driven as light blocking units without driving the second structures 742, a narrower viewing angle can be achieved compared to the case where only the plurality of second structures 742 are driven as light blocking units. In addition, the left surface, the right surface, the top surface, and the bottom surface of the plurality of first structures 541 are asymmetric to each other, so that when the plurality of first structures 541 are driven as light blocking units, light passing through the viewing angle changing layer 740 can be tilted in a specific direction. That is, the viewing angle can be adjusted to a specific direction.

[0106] That is, in the viewing angle change film 700 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the viewing angle change layer 740 includes a plurality of first structures 541 and a plurality of second structures 742 having different shapes and different heights. At this time, the plurality of first structures 541 can be driven individually by the first sub-electrode 150a, and the plurality of second structures 742 can be driven individually by the second sub-electrode 150b. Therefore, in the viewing angle change film 700 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of first structures 541 or the plurality of second structures 742 can be selectively used as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit. Therefore, various viewing angle characteristics according to the user's requirements can be met. That is, it is not necessary to manufacture various molds according to the user's requirements, thereby saving manufacturing costs.

[0107] Specifically, in the viewing angle changing film 700 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the viewing angle changing layer 740 includes a plurality of first structures 541 having a trapezoidal cross section. That is, the left and right surfaces of the plurality of first structures 541 may be asymmetric. Therefore, the light passing through the viewing angle changing layer 740 may be tilted in a specific direction. That is, the viewing angle may be adjusted to a specific direction.

[0108] Reference Figure 8B The viewing angle changing layer 840 includes: a plurality of first structures 541 , a plurality of second structures 742 , a plurality of third structures 843 and a transparent layer 145 .

[0109] The plurality of first structures 541, the plurality of second structures 742, the plurality of third structures 843 and the transparent layer 145 may be alternately arranged along one direction. That is, the plurality of first structures 541, the plurality of second structures 742 and the plurality of third structures 843 may be alternately arranged from one side.

[0110] The plurality of first structures 541, the plurality of second structures 742, and the plurality of third structures 843 may be alternately disposed to be spaced apart from each other at predetermined intervals. At this time, the plurality of first structures 541, the plurality of second structures 742, and the plurality of third structures 843 may be disposed to extend in the same or substantially the same direction on a plane.

[0111] Similar to the plurality of first structures 541 and the plurality of second structures 742, the plurality of third structures 843 include: a polymer, a plurality of droplets dispersed in the polymer, and a plurality of colored particles dispersed in the plurality of droplets. That is, the plurality of first structures 541, the plurality of second structures 742, and the plurality of third structures 843 may be composed of polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC), but are not limited thereto. That is, similar to the plurality of first structures 541 and the plurality of second structures 742, the plurality of third structures 843 may also be switched to a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit depending on whether a voltage is applied.

[0112] At this time, in order to not only switch the viewing angle change layer 840 to a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit, but also change the viewing angle, the plurality of first structures 541, the plurality of second structures 742, and the plurality of third structures 843 may be configured differently. Specifically, at least one of the height, width, and shape of the plurality of first structures 541, the plurality of second structures 742, and the plurality of third structures 843 may be different. Specifically, the cross-section of the plurality of third structures 843 is a rectangle, and the shape and height of the plurality of third structures 843 may be different from the shape and height of the plurality of first structures 541, and the height of the plurality of third structures 843 may be different from the height of the plurality of second structures 742. That is, according to the requested viewing angle characteristics, the plurality of first structures 541, the plurality of second structures 742, or the plurality of third structures 843 having different shapes or heights are driven as light transmission units or light blocking units, so that various viewing angle modes can be realized. For example, without driving the second structures 742 and the third structures 843, the plurality of first structures 541 having the maximum height and having a trapezoidal shape may be driven as light blocking units. At this time, compared with the case where the plurality of second structures 742 or the plurality of third structures 843 are driven as light blocking units, a narrower viewing angle can be achieved. In addition, the viewing angle can be adjusted to a specific direction. In addition, without driving the first structure 541 and the second structure 742, the plurality of third structures 843 having the minimum height can be driven as a light blocking unit. At this time, compared with the case where the plurality of first structures 541 or the plurality of second structures 742 are driven as light blocking units, a wider viewing angle can be achieved.

[0113] The second electrode 250 may be disposed on the viewing angle variation layer 840. The second electrode 150 includes a first sub-electrode 150a, a second sub-electrode 150b, and a third sub-electrode 250c.

[0114] Specifically, the first sub-electrode 150a is arranged to overlap with the plurality of first structures 541 to apply a voltage to the colored particles of the plurality of first structures 541. That is, the plurality of first structures 541 can be driven as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit depending on whether a voltage is applied to the first sub-electrode 150a. The second sub-electrode 150b is arranged to overlap with the plurality of second structures 742 to apply a voltage to the colored particles of the plurality of second structures 742. That is, the plurality of second structures 742 can be driven as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit depending on whether a voltage is applied to the second sub-electrode 150b. The third sub-electrode 250c is arranged to overlap with the plurality of third structures 843 to apply a voltage to the colored particles of the plurality of third structures 843. That is, the plurality of third structures 843 can be driven as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit depending on whether a voltage is applied to the third sub-electrode 250c. Therefore, the first sub-electrode 150 a , the second sub-electrode 150 b , and the third sub-electrode 250 c of the second electrode 250 may be alternately disposed on a plane.

[0115] In the viewing angle change film 800 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the viewing angle change layer 840 further includes not only a plurality of first structures 541 and a plurality of second structures 742 having different heights, but also a plurality of third structures 843. At this time, the plurality of first structures 541 can be driven individually by the first sub-electrode 150a, the plurality of second structures 742 can be driven individually by the second sub-electrode 150b, and the plurality of third structures 843 can be driven individually by the third sub-electrode 250c. Therefore, in the viewing angle change film 800 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, not only the plurality of first structures 541 or the plurality of second structures 742, but also the plurality of third structures 843 can be selectively used as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit. Therefore, various viewing angle characteristics according to the requirements of the user can be met. That is, it is not necessary to manufacture various molds according to the requirements of the user, thereby saving manufacturing costs.

[0116] Specifically, in the viewing angle changing film 800 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the viewing angle changing layer 840 includes a plurality of first structures 541 having a trapezoidal cross section. That is, the left and right surfaces of the plurality of first structures 541 may be asymmetric. Therefore, the light passing through the viewing angle changing layer 840 may be tilted in a specific direction. That is, the viewing angle may be adjusted to a specific direction.

[0117] 9A to 9C is a cross-sectional view of a viewing angle variation film according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 9A In the viewing angle variation film 900, only the shapes of the plurality of second structures 942 are different from Fig. 7AThe shapes of the plurality of second structures of the viewing angle variation film 500 are different, but the other components are substantially the same, so that redundant descriptions will be omitted or may be briefly provided. Fig. 9B In the viewing angle variation film 1000, only the shapes of the plurality of second structures 1042 are different from Fig. 9A The shapes of the plurality of second structures of the viewing angle variation film 900 are different, but the other components are substantially the same, so that a redundant description will be omitted or may be briefly provided. Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B , for convenience of description, it is illustrated that the plurality of first structures 541 and the plurality of second structures 942 are driven as a light blocking unit, and the plurality of first structures 541 and the plurality of second structures 942 are illustrated in black. Fig. 9C The viewing angle changing film 1100 and Fig. 9A The difference of the viewing angle change film 900 is that there are a plurality of third structures 1143 and a plurality of fourth structures 1144 in the configuration of the viewing angle change layer 1140, and there are a third sub-electrode 250c and a fourth sub-electrode 1150d in the configuration of the second electrode 1150. However, the other components are substantially the same, so that a redundant description will be omitted or may be briefly provided. Fig. 9C , for convenience of description, it is illustrated that the plurality of first structures 541, the plurality of second structures 942, the plurality of third structures 1143, and the plurality of fourth structures 1144 are driven as the light blocking unit, and they are illustrated in black.

[0118] Reference Fig. 9A , not only the plurality of first structures 541 but also the plurality of second structures 942 may have a trapezoidal cross-section.

[0119] At this time, one of the side surfaces of the plurality of first structures 541 and the plurality of second structures 942 is perpendicular to the bottom surface, and the other side surface is inclined relative to the bottom surface. Fig. 9A As shown, the left surfaces of the plurality of first structures 541 and the plurality of second structures 942 may be perpendicular to the bottom surface, and the right surfaces may be inclined relative to the bottom surface. That is, the inclined surfaces of the plurality of first structures 541 may be opposite to the vertical side surfaces of the plurality of second structures 942, and the inclined surfaces of the plurality of second structures 942 may be opposite to the vertical side surfaces of the plurality of first structures 541. However, in order not only to switch the viewing angle changing layer 940 to a light transmitting unit or a light blocking unit but also to change the viewing angle, the plurality of first structures 541 and the plurality of second structures 942 may be configured differently.

[0120] That is, the inclined surfaces of the plurality of first structures 541 and the inclined surfaces of the plurality of second structures 942 may have different inclinations. For example, the inclined surfaces of the plurality of first structures 541 may be more inclined to the left than the inclined surfaces of the plurality of second structures 942. Therefore, when the plurality of first structures 541 are driven as light blocking units without driving the second structures 942, light passing through the viewing angle changing layer 940 may be more inclined to the left than when the plurality of second structures 942 are driven as light blocking units.

[0121] That is, in the viewing angle change film 900 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the viewing angle change layer 940 includes a plurality of first structures 541 and a plurality of second structures 942 having different shapes. At this time, the plurality of first structures 541 can be driven individually by the first sub-electrode 150a, and the plurality of second structures 942 can be driven individually by the second sub-electrode 150b. Therefore, in the viewing angle change film 900 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of first structures 541 or the plurality of second structures 942 can be selectively used as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit. Therefore, various viewing angle characteristics according to the user's requirements can be met. That is, it is not necessary to manufacture various molds according to the user's requirements, thereby saving manufacturing costs.

[0122] Specifically, in a viewing angle changing film 900 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a viewing angle changing layer 940 includes a plurality of first structures 541 and a plurality of second structures 942 having a trapezoidal cross section and having different inclinations of the inclined surfaces. That is, the left and right surfaces of the plurality of first structures 541 and the plurality of second structures 942 may be asymmetric. Therefore, light passing through the viewing angle changing layer 940 may be tilted in a specific direction. That is, the viewing angle may be adjusted to a specific direction.

[0123] Reference Fig. 9B , the plurality of first structures 541 and the plurality of second structures 1042 may have a trapezoidal cross section. In this case, the shapes of the plurality of first structures 541 and the plurality of second structures 1042 may be symmetrical to each other. That is, Fig. 9B As shown, the left surfaces of the plurality of first structures 541 may be perpendicular to the bottom surface, while the right surfaces may be inclined relative to the bottom surface. In contrast, the right surfaces of the plurality of second structures 1042 may be perpendicular to the bottom surface, while the left surfaces may be inclined relative to the bottom surface.

[0124] That is, when the plurality of first structures 541 are driven as light blocking units, light passing through the viewing angle variation layer 1040 may be tilted to the left, and when the plurality of second structures 1042 are driven as light blocking units, light may be tilted to the right.

[0125] That is, in the viewing angle change film 1000 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the viewing angle change layer 1040 includes a plurality of first structures 541 and a plurality of second structures 1042 having different shapes. At this time, the plurality of first structures 541 can be driven individually by the first sub-electrode 150a, and the plurality of second structures 1042 can be driven individually by the second sub-electrode 150b. Therefore, in the viewing angle change film 1000 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of first structures 541 or the plurality of second structures 1042 can be selectively used as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit. Therefore, various viewing angle characteristics according to the requirements of the user can be met. That is, it is not necessary to manufacture various molds according to the requirements of the user, thereby saving manufacturing costs.

[0126] Specifically, in the viewing angle variation film 1000 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the viewing angle variation layer 1040 includes a plurality of first structures 541 and a plurality of second structures 1042 having a trapezoidal cross section and being symmetrical to each other. That is, the plurality of first structures 541 and the plurality of second structures 1042 may have inclined surfaces in opposite directions. Therefore, the viewing angle can be adjusted not only to a specific direction but also to a direction opposite thereto.

[0127] Reference Fig. 9C The viewing angle changing layer 1140 may include a plurality of first structures 541 , a plurality of second structures 942 , a plurality of third structures 1143 , a plurality of fourth structures 1144 , and a transparent layer 145 .

[0128] The plurality of first structures 541, the plurality of second structures 942, the plurality of third structures 1143, the plurality of fourth structures 1144 and the transparent layer 145 may be alternately arranged along one direction. That is, the plurality of first structures 541, the plurality of second structures 942, the plurality of third structures 1143 and the plurality of fourth structures 1144 may be alternately arranged from one side.

[0129] The plurality of first structures 541, the plurality of second structures 942, the plurality of third structures 1143, and the plurality of fourth structures 1144 may be spaced apart from each other at predetermined intervals to be alternately arranged. At this time, the plurality of first structures 541, the plurality of second structures 942, the plurality of third structures 1143, and the plurality of fourth structures 1144 may be arranged to extend in the same or substantially the same direction on a plane.

[0130] Similar to the plurality of first structures 541 and the plurality of second structures 942, the plurality of third structures 1143 and the plurality of fourth structures 1144 include: a polymer, a plurality of droplets dispersed in the polymer, and a plurality of colored particles dispersed in the plurality of droplets. That is, the plurality of first structures 541, the plurality of second structures 942, the plurality of third structures 1143, and the plurality of fourth structures 1144 may be composed of polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC), but are not limited thereto. That is, similar to the plurality of first structures 541 and the plurality of second structures 942, the plurality of third structures 1143 and the plurality of fourth structures 1144 may also be switched into a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit depending on whether a voltage is applied.

[0131] At this time, in order not only to switch the viewing angle changing layer 1140 to a light transmitting unit or a light blocking unit but also to change the viewing angle, the plurality of first structures 541, the plurality of second structures 942, the plurality of third structures 1143, and the plurality of fourth structures 1144 may be configured differently. Fig. 9C , for example, the plurality of third structures 1143 may be formed to have a shape symmetrical to the plurality of first structures 541. The plurality of fourth structures 1144 may be formed to have a shape symmetrical to the plurality of second structures 942. That is, the left surfaces of the plurality of third structures 1143 and the plurality of fourth structures 1144 may be inclined relative to the bottom surface, and the right surfaces may be perpendicular to the bottom surface. That is, the inclined surfaces of the plurality of third structures 1143 may be opposite to the vertical side surfaces of the plurality of fourth structures 1144, and the inclined surfaces of the plurality of fourth structures 1144 may be opposite to the vertical side surfaces of the plurality of third structures 1143. In addition, the inclined surfaces of the plurality of third structures 1143 and the inclined surfaces of the plurality of fourth structures 1144 may have different inclinations. That is, when the plurality of first structures 541 or the plurality of second structures 942 are driven as light blocking units, light passing through the viewing angle change layer 1140 may be inclined to the left. In contrast, when the plurality of third structures 1143 or the plurality of fourth structures 1144 are driven as light blocking units, light passing through the viewing angle change layer 1140 may be inclined to the right. At this time, the inclined surfaces of the plurality of fourth structures 1144 may be further inclined to the right, so that when the plurality of fourth structures are driven as light blocking units, light may be inclined more to the right compared to the case where the plurality of third structures 1143 are driven as light blocking units.

[0132] The second electrode 1150 may be disposed on the viewing angle variation layer 1140. The second electrode 1150 may include a first sub-electrode 150a, a second sub-electrode 150b, and a third sub-electrode 250c.

[0133] Specifically, the first sub-electrode 150a is arranged to overlap with the plurality of first structures 541 to apply a voltage to the colored particles of the plurality of first structures 541. That is, the plurality of first structures 541 can be driven as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit depending on whether a voltage is applied to the first sub-electrode 150a. The second sub-electrode 150b is arranged to overlap with the plurality of second structures 942 to apply a voltage to the colored particles of the plurality of second structures 942. That is, the plurality of second structures 942 can be driven as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit depending on whether a voltage is applied to the second sub-electrode 150b. The third sub-electrode 250c is arranged to overlap with the plurality of third structures 1143 to apply a voltage to the colored particles of the plurality of third structures 1143. That is, the plurality of third structures 1143 can be driven as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit depending on whether a voltage is applied to the third sub-electrode 250c. The fourth sub-electrode 1150d is disposed to overlap the plurality of fourth structures 1144 to apply a voltage to the colored particles of the plurality of fourth structures 1144. That is, the plurality of fourth structures 1144 may be driven as a light transmitting unit or a light blocking unit depending on whether a voltage is applied to the fourth sub-electrode 1150d. Therefore, the first sub-electrode 150a, the second sub-electrode 150b, the third sub-electrode 250c, and the fourth sub-electrode 1150d of the second electrode 1150 may be alternately disposed on a plane.

[0134] That is, in the viewing angle change film 1100 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the viewing angle change layer 1140 includes a plurality of first structures 541, a plurality of second structures 942, a plurality of third structures 1143, and a plurality of fourth structures 1144 having different shapes. At this time, the plurality of first structures 541 can be driven individually by the first sub-electrode 150a, and the plurality of second structures 942 can be driven individually by the second sub-electrode 150b. The plurality of third structures 1143 can be driven individually by the third sub-electrode 250c, and the plurality of fourth structures 1144 can be driven individually by the fourth sub-electrode 1150d. Therefore, in the viewing angle change film 1100 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of first structures 541, the plurality of second structures 942, the plurality of third structures 1143, or the plurality of fourth structures 1144 can be selectively used as a light transmission unit or a light blocking unit. Therefore, various viewing angle characteristics according to the requirements of the user can be met. That is, it is not necessary to manufacture various molds according to the requirements of the user, thereby saving manufacturing costs.

[0135] Specifically, in the viewing angle change film 1100 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the viewing angle change layer 1140 includes a plurality of third structures 1143 and a plurality of fourth structures 1144 having a trapezoidal cross section. The plurality of third structures 1143 are symmetrical with the plurality of first structures 541, and the plurality of fourth structures 1144 are symmetrical with the plurality of second structures 942. That is, the plurality of first structures 541 and the plurality of third structures 1143 may have inclined surfaces in opposite directions, and the plurality of second structures 942 and the plurality of fourth structures 1144 may have inclined surfaces in opposite directions. Therefore, the viewing angle can be adjusted not only to a specific direction but also to a direction opposite thereto.

[0136] Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B is a cross-sectional view of a viewing angle varying film according to still another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.11A and Fig. 11B is a cross-sectional view of a viewing angle varying film according to still another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B is a cross-sectional view of a viewing angle varying film according to still another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.13A and Fig. 13B is a cross-sectional view of a viewing angle varying film according to still another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C is a cross-sectional view of a viewing angle varying film according to still another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0137] In the case where there are a plurality of lenses 1270, Fig. 10A The viewing angle changing film 1200, Fig. 10B The viewing angle changing film 1300, Fig.11A The viewing angle changing film 1400, Fig. 11B The viewing angle changing film 1500, Fig. 12A The viewing angle changing film 1600, Fig. 12B The viewing angle changing film 1700, Fig.13A The viewing angle changing film 1800, Fig. 13B The viewing angle changing film 1900, Fig.14A The viewing angle changing film 2000, Fig. 14B The viewing angle changing film 2100 and Fig. 14C The viewing angle changing film 2200 is different from Figure 3A The viewing angle changing film 100, Figure 4 The viewing angle changing film 200, Figure 5A The viewing angle changing film 300, Figure 5B The viewing angle changing film 400, Fig. 7A The viewing angle changing film 500, Figure 7B The viewing angle changing film 600, Fig. 8A The viewing angle changing film 700, Figure 8BThe viewing angle changing film 800, Fig. 9A The viewing angle changing film 900, Fig. 9B The viewing angle changing film 1000 and Fig. 9C The viewing angle variation film 1100 is shown in FIG. Other components are substantially the same, so that a redundant description will be omitted or may be briefly provided.

[0138] Reference FIG. 10A to FIG. 14C , a plurality of lenses 1270 may be disposed on the second film 160. The plurality of lenses 1270 gather light to further narrow the viewing angle. Therefore, the refractive index of the plurality of lenses 1270 may be 1.4 to 1.7. At this time, the centers of the plurality of lenses 1270 may be disposed to be aligned between adjacent sub-electrodes of the second electrode 150. When the second electrode 150 includes a plurality of first sub-electrodes 150a and a plurality of second sub-electrodes 150b, the centers of the plurality of lenses 1270 may be aligned between the plurality of first sub-electrodes 150a and the plurality of second sub-electrodes 150b. When the second electrode 150 includes a plurality of third sub-electrodes 250c, the centers of the plurality of lenses 1270 may be aligned between the plurality of first sub-electrodes 150a and the plurality of second sub-electrodes 150b and between the plurality of second sub-electrodes 150b and the plurality of third sub-electrodes 250c. When the second electrode 150 also includes a fourth sub-electrode 1150d, the centers of the multiple lenses 1270 can be aligned between the multiple first sub-electrodes 150a and the multiple second sub-electrodes 150b, between the multiple second sub-electrodes 150b and the multiple third sub-electrodes 250c, and between the multiple third sub-electrodes 250c and the multiple fourth sub-electrodes 1150d.

[0139] That is, the plurality of lenses 1270 are disposed to be aligned with the center between the plurality of adjacent sub-electrodes on the second film 160 to increase the degree of freedom in designing the viewing angle changing layer 140. That is, the center of each of the plurality of lenses 1270 is aligned with the space between a corresponding first sub-electrode 150a among the plurality of first sub-electrodes and a corresponding second sub-electrode 150b among the plurality of second sub-electrodes adjacent to the corresponding first sub-electrode 150a.

[0140] Fig.15 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0141] Reference Fig.15 , the cover bottom CB may have a structure with an open top surface. The cover bottom CB may protect components in the cover bottom CB. The cover bottom CB is a metal material and is used to enhance the rigidity of the interior of the cover bottom CB. In addition, the heat generated from the light source L may be eventually discharged to the outside through the cover bottom CB.

[0142] The light source L may be disposed in the cover bottom CB. The light source may include at least one of a cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL), an external electrode fluorescent lamp (EEFL), and a light emitting diode (LED), but is not limited thereto.

[0143] The light guide plate LGP may be disposed on the same or substantially the same plane as the light source L in the cover bottom CB. The light guide plate LGP receives the light emitted from the light source L to refract, scatter, and reflect the light, thereby uniformly emitting the light upward. That is, the light guide plate LGP converts point light irradiated from the light source L into surface light to transmit the converted light to the display panel PN.

[0144] The optical sheet OS may be disposed on the light guide panel LGP. The optical sheet OS improves characteristics of light generated from the light source L. The optical sheet OS may include a diffusion sheet, a prism sheet, a protection sheet, and the like.

[0145] The viewing angle variation film 100 may be disposed on the optical sheet OS. Fig.15 , it is illustrated that all cross sections of the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142 are rectangles having the same or substantially the same width and different heights, but it is not limited thereto, and any one or more of the shape, width, and height may be configured to be different.

[0146] The display panel PN may be disposed on the viewing angle variation film 100. Even though the display panel PN is not illustrated in the drawings and is not illustrated in detail, the display panel may include a transistor substrate and a color filter substrate that are bonded relative to each other to maintain a uniform cell gap, and a liquid crystal layer interposed between the two substrates. On the transistor substrate, a plurality of gate lines may be formed, and a plurality of data lines intersecting the plurality of gate lines may be formed, and transistors may be disposed at the intersections of the gate lines and the data lines. That is, in the display device DP1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the display panel PN may be a liquid crystal display panel. In addition, even though Fig.15 Although it is illustrated that the display panel PN is disposed above the viewing angle variation film 100 , it is not limited thereto, and the display panel PN may be disposed below the viewing angle variation film 100 .

[0147] The guide panel GP may be disposed under the display panel PN. The guide panel GP receives components disposed under the display panel PN to support and fix the components and maintain rigidity.

[0148] In addition, a printed circuit board PCB is connected to one end of the display device DP1. Even though not illustrated in the drawings, the printed circuit board PCB is connected to the flexible film to supply a signal to the driving IC of the flexible film. Various components may be provided in the printed circuit board PCB to supply various driving signals such as a driving signal, a data voltage, etc. to the driving IC.

[0149] The signal lines SL may connect the printed circuit board PCB to the first electrode 120 , the second electrode 150 , and the display panel PN.

[0150] Even though not illustrated in the drawings, the display device DP1 may include an illuminance sensor or the like that senses predetermined external light to drive the viewing angle variation film 100 during a predetermined period.

[0151] The display device DP1 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes a viewing angle variation film 100, and the viewing angle variation layer 140 of the viewing angle variation film 100 includes a plurality of first structures 141 and a plurality of second structures 142 that are different from each other. Therefore, in the display device DP1 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, any one or more of the shapes, widths, and heights of the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142 are designed to be different, so that viewing angles in various modes can be achieved. Therefore, it is not necessary to manufacture various molds according to user requirements, thereby saving manufacturing costs.

[0152] Fig.16 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0153] Reference Fig.16 The display panel PN may include a substrate, a transistor, and an organic light emitting diode. That is, in the display device DP2 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the display panel PN may be an organic light emitting display panel.

[0154] The substrate is a substrate that supports components disposed above the display device DP2, and may be an insulating substrate. For example, the substrate may be formed of glass, resin, etc. In addition, the substrate may include a polymer or plastic. The substrate may be formed of a flexible plastic material. A plurality of pixels are formed on the substrate to display an image.

[0155] A transistor for driving an organic light emitting diode may be disposed on a substrate. For example, the transistor may include a gate electrode, an active layer, a source electrode, and a drain electrode. In addition, the transistor may further include a gate insulating layer insulating the gate electrode from the active layer and an interlayer insulating layer insulating the gate electrode from the source electrode and the drain electrode.

[0156] The organic light emitting diode may be disposed on the transistor.

[0157] The first adhesive layer Adh1 may be disposed on the display panel PN. The first adhesive layer Adh1 may use an optically clear adhesive (OCA) to allow light to pass therethrough, but is not limited thereto.

[0158] The viewing angle variation film 100 may be disposed on the first adhesive layer Adh1. Fig.16, it is illustrated that all cross sections of the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142 are rectangles having the same or substantially the same width and different heights, but is not limited thereto, and any one or more of the shape, width, and height may be configured to be different.

[0159] The second adhesive layer Adh2 may be disposed on the viewing angle variation film 100. The second adhesive layer Adh2 may use an optically clear adhesive (OCA) to allow light to pass therethrough, but is not limited thereto.

[0160] The cover glass CG may be disposed on the second adhesive layer Adh2. The cover glass CG may protect the display panel PN from being damaged by external impact or from being degraded or degraded by moisture, oxygen, or foreign matter entering from the outside.

[0161] The display device DP2 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes a viewing angle variation film 100, and the viewing angle variation layer 140 of the viewing angle variation film 100 includes a plurality of first structures 141 and a plurality of second structures 142 that are respectively different from each other. Therefore, in the display device DP2 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, any one or more of the shapes, widths, and heights of the plurality of first structures 141 and the plurality of second structures 142 are designed to be different, so that the viewing angles in various modes can be achieved. Therefore, it is not necessary to manufacture various molds according to the requirements of the user, thereby saving manufacturing costs.

[0162] Fig.17A and Fig. 17B is a diagram for explaining an example in which a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is used according to a body shape of a user.

[0163] First, refer to Fig.17A , the user can use the display applied to the interior of the vehicle at a closer position. At this time, the third viewing angle VA3 can be achieved according to the user's eye height. That is, when Fig.17A When the center of the outermost circle illustrated on the right side is 0°, a viewing angle narrowed to a range of 10° to 30° can be achieved.

[0164] Reference Fig. 17B , the user can use the display used in the vehicle interior at a longer distance. At this time, the fourth viewing angle VA4 can be achieved according to the user's eye height. That is, when Fig. 17B When the center of the outermost circle illustrated on the right side is 0°, a viewing angle narrowed to a range of 0° to 20° can be achieved.

[0165] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may also be described as follows:

[0166] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a viewing angle changing film is provided. The viewing angle changing film includes: a first film, a second film arranged opposite to the first film, a first electrode on the first film, a second electrode below the second film, and a viewing angle changing layer between the first electrode and the second electrode. The viewing angle changing layer includes a plurality of first structures and a plurality of second structures containing colored particles and arranged to be spaced apart from each other. At least one or more of the heights, widths, and shapes of the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures are different.

[0167] A plurality of first structures and a plurality of second structures may be arranged alternately.

[0168] The first electrode may be disposed to overlap all of the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures. The second electrode may include: a plurality of first sub-electrodes overlapping the plurality of first structures, and a plurality of second sub-electrodes overlapping the plurality of second structures.

[0169] The viewing angle varying film may also include a plurality of lenses on the second film.

[0170] The refractive index of the plurality of lenses may be 1.4 to 1.7. Centers of the plurality of lenses may be aligned between the plurality of first sub-electrodes and the plurality of second sub-electrodes.

[0171] The alignment direction of the colored particles may be changed depending on whether a voltage is applied to the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0172] The plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures may have a rectangular cross-section, and the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures may have the same or substantially the same width and different heights.

[0173] The viewing angle changing layer may further include a plurality of third structures, the plurality of third structures including colored particles and being arranged to be spaced apart from the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures. The plurality of third structures may have a rectangular cross-section. The plurality of third structures may have a width that is the same as or substantially the same as the width of the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures, and have a height that is different from the height of the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures.

[0174] The plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures may have a rectangular cross-section.The plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures may have the same or substantially the same height and different widths.

[0175] The viewing angle changing layer may further include a plurality of third structures, the plurality of third structures including colored particles and being arranged to be spaced apart from the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures. The plurality of third structures may have a rectangular cross-section. The plurality of third structures may have a height that is the same as or substantially the same as that of the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures, and have a width that is different from that of the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures.

[0176] One of the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures may have a rectangular cross-section and the other of the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures may have a trapezoidal cross-section. The plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures may have the same or substantially the same height.

[0177] One of the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures may have a rectangular cross-section and the other of the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures may have a trapezoidal cross-section. The height of one of the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures may be lower than the height of the other of the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures.

[0178] The plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures may have trapezoidal cross-sections.

[0179] One of side surfaces of the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures may be perpendicular to the bottom surface, and the other of side surfaces of the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures may be inclined with respect to the bottom surface.

[0180] The inclined surfaces of the plurality of first structures and the inclined surfaces of the plurality of second structures may be opposite to each other.

[0181] The shapes of the plurality of first structures and the shapes of the plurality of second structures may be symmetrical to each other.

[0182] The inclined surfaces of the plurality of first structures may be opposite to the vertical side surfaces of the plurality of second structures. The inclined surfaces of the plurality of second structures may be opposite to the vertical side surfaces of the plurality of first structures.

[0183] The inclined surfaces of the plurality of first structures and the inclined surfaces of the plurality of second structures may have different inclinations.

[0184] The viewing angle changing layer may further include a plurality of third structures and a plurality of fourth structures, wherein the plurality of third structures and the plurality of fourth structures include colored particles and are arranged to be spaced apart from the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures. The plurality of third structures may be formed to be symmetrical with the plurality of first structures. The plurality of fourth structures may be formed to be symmetrical with the plurality of second structures.

[0185] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a display device is provided, comprising: a viewing angle variation film and a liquid crystal display panel disposed above or below the viewing angle variation film.

[0186] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a display device is provided, comprising: a viewing angle variation film, and an organic light emitting display panel disposed below the viewing angle variation film.

[0187] Although the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present disclosure is not limited thereto and can be specifically implemented in many different forms without departing from the technical concept of the present disclosure. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the technical concept of the present disclosure. The scope of the technical concept of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Therefore, it should be understood that the above exemplary embodiments are illustrative in all aspects and do not limit the present disclosure. All technical concepts within the equivalent scope of the present disclosure should be interpreted as falling within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0188] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0189] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0142730, filed on October 24, 2023, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Claims

1. A viewing angle varying film, comprising: First film; a second film overlapping the first film and spaced apart from the first film; a first electrode, the first electrode being on the first film; a second electrode on the second film such that the second electrode is between the second film and the first electrode; as well as a viewing angle changing layer, wherein the viewing angle changing layer is between the first electrode and the second electrode, The viewing angle variation layer includes a plurality of first structures and a plurality of second structures spaced apart from each other, and each of the plurality of first structures and each of the plurality of second structures includes colored particles, At least one or more of the height, width or shape of a first structure among the plurality of first structures is different from the height, width or shape of a second structure among the plurality of second structures.

2. The viewing angle variable film according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures are arranged alternately.

3. The viewing angle variable film according to claim 2, wherein: The first electrode overlaps the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures, and The second electrode comprises: a plurality of first sub-electrodes overlapping the plurality of first structures without overlapping the plurality of second structures; and A plurality of second sub-electrodes overlap the plurality of second structures without overlapping the plurality of first structures.

4. The viewing angle variable film according to claim 3, further comprising: a plurality of lenses, the plurality of lenses being on the second film so that the second film is between the plurality of lenses and the second electrode, wherein the refractive index of the plurality of lenses is in the range from 1.4 to 1.7, and A center of each of the plurality of lenses is aligned with a space between a corresponding first sub-electrode of the plurality of first sub-electrodes and a corresponding second sub-electrode of the plurality of second sub-electrodes adjacent to the corresponding first sub-electrode.

5. The viewing angle variable film according to claim 1, wherein: The colored particles have a first alignment direction when no voltage is applied to the first electrode and the second electrode, and have a second alignment direction different from the first alignment direction when the voltage is applied to the first electrode and the second electrode.

6. The viewing angle variable film according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the plurality of first structures and each of the plurality of second structures have a rectangular cross-section, a width of each of the plurality of first structures is the same as a width of each of the plurality of second structures, and a height of each of the plurality of first structures is different from a height of each of the plurality of second structures.

7. The viewing angle variable film according to claim 6, wherein: The viewing angle change layer also includes: a plurality of third structures, the plurality of third structures comprising colored particles, the plurality of third structures being spaced apart from the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures, wherein each of the plurality of third structures has a rectangular cross-section, and Each of the plurality of third structures has a width the same as a width of each of the plurality of first structures and a width of each of the plurality of second structures, and has a height different from a height of each of the plurality of first structures and a height of each of the plurality of second structures.

8. The viewing angle variable film according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the plurality of first structures and each of the plurality of second structures have a rectangular cross-section, a height of each of the plurality of first structures is the same as a height of each of the plurality of second structures, and a width of each of the plurality of first structures is different from a width of each of the plurality of second structures.

9. The viewing angle variable film according to claim 8, wherein: The viewing angle change layer also includes: a plurality of third structures, the plurality of third structures comprising colored particles, the plurality of third structures being spaced apart from the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures, wherein each of the plurality of third structures has a rectangular cross-section, a height of each of the plurality of third structures is the same as a height of each of the plurality of first structures and a height of each of the plurality of second structures, and a width of each of the plurality of third structures is different from a width of each of the plurality of first structures and a width of each of the plurality of second structures.

10. The viewing angle variable film according to claim 1, wherein: One of the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures has a rectangular cross-section and the other of the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures has a trapezoidal cross-section, and A height of each of the plurality of first structures is the same as a height of each of the plurality of second structures.

11. The viewing angle variable film according to claim 1, wherein: One of the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures has a rectangular cross-section and the other of the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures has a trapezoidal cross-section, and The one of the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures having the rectangular cross-section has a height smaller than a height of the other one of the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures having a trapezoidal cross-section.

12. The viewing angle variable film according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures has a trapezoidal cross-section, Wherein, the first side surface of each of the multiple first structures is perpendicular to the bottom surface of each of the multiple first structures, the first side surface of each of the multiple second structures is perpendicular to the bottom surface of each of the multiple second structures, the second side surface of each of the multiple first structures is inclined relative to the bottom surface of each of the multiple first structures, and the second side surface of each of the multiple second structures is inclined relative to the bottom surface of each of the multiple second structures.

13. The viewing angle variable film according to claim 12, wherein: The inclined second side surface of a first structure among the plurality of first structures and the inclined second side surface of a second structure among the plurality of second structures are opposite to each other.

14. The viewing angle variable film according to claim 12, wherein: The shapes of the plurality of first structures and the shapes of the plurality of second structures are symmetrical to each other.

15. The viewing angle variable film according to claim 12, wherein: The inclined second side surface of a first structure among the plurality of first structures is opposite to the vertical first side surface of a second structure among the plurality of second structures, and the inclined second side surface of the second structure is opposite to the vertical first side surface of the first structure.

16. The viewing angle variable film according to claim 15, wherein: The inclined second side surface of the first structure and the inclined second side surface of the second structure have different inclinations.

17. The viewing angle variable film according to claim 15, wherein: The viewing angle change layer also includes: a plurality of third structures and a plurality of fourth structures, each of the plurality of third structures and the plurality of fourth structures comprising colored particles, the plurality of third structures and the plurality of fourth structures being spaced apart from the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures, The plurality of third structures are symmetrical to the plurality of first structures, and the plurality of fourth structures are symmetrical to the plurality of second structures.

18. A display device, comprising: a display panel, the display panel being configured to emit light; as well as a viewing angle variation film on the display panel, the viewing angle variation film comprising a plurality of first structures and a plurality of second structures spaced apart from each other, and each of the plurality of first structures and each of the plurality of second structures comprising colored particles, wherein, in the first mode of the display device, the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures are configured to block light emitted by the display panel from passing through the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures, wherein, in the second mode of the display device, the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures are configured to allow the light emitted by the display panel to pass through the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures, and In which, in the third mode of the display device, at least one first structure among the multiple first structures or at least one second structure among the multiple second structures is configured to allow the light emitted by the display panel to pass through the at least one first structure or the at least one second structure at a first viewing angle, and the other of the at least one first structure or the at least one second structure is configured to block the light emitted by the display panel.

19. The display device according to claim 18, wherein: During the first mode, the colored particles included in the plurality of first structures and the colored particles included in the plurality of second structures are aligned in a first direction that blocks the light emitted from the display panel from passing through the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures.

20. The display device according to claim 19, wherein: During the second mode, the colored particles included in the plurality of first structures and the colored particles included in the plurality of second structures are oriented in a second direction different from the first direction, and the light emitted from the display panel is allowed to pass through the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures.

21. The display device according to claim 20, wherein: During the third mode, the colored particles included in the at least one first structure or the colored particles included in the at least one second structure are oriented along the first direction, and the colored particles included in the other of the at least one first structure or the at least one second structure are oriented along the second direction.

22. The display device according to claim 21, wherein: The viewing angle changing film further comprises: First film; a second film overlapping the first film and spaced apart from the first film; a first electrode, the first electrode being on the first film; a second electrode on the second film such that the second electrode is between the second film and the first electrode; and a viewing angle changing layer, wherein the viewing angle changing layer is between the first electrode and the second electrode, The viewing angle changing layer includes the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures, At least one or more of the height, width or shape of a first structure among the plurality of first structures is different from the height, width or shape of a second structure among the plurality of second structures.

23. The display device according to claim 22, wherein: The first electrode overlaps the plurality of first structures and the plurality of second structures, and the second electrode includes: a plurality of first sub-electrodes overlapping the plurality of first structures without overlapping the plurality of second structures; and A plurality of second sub-electrodes overlap the plurality of second structures without overlapping the plurality of first structures.

24. The display device according to claim 23, wherein: The colored particles have a first direction when a voltage is not applied to the first electrode and the second electrode, and have a second direction when the voltage is applied to the first electrode and the second electrode.

25. The display device according to claim 18, wherein: The display panel is a liquid crystal display panel or an organic light emitting display panel.

Images