Liquid crystal dimming filter and dimming device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to the technical field of liquid crystals, and discloses a liquid crystal dimming filter and a dimming device. The liquid crystal dimming filter comprises a first liquid crystal dimming functional layer and a second liquid crystal dimming functional layer. The first liquid crystal dimming functional layer comprises a first spacer layer, and the first spacer layer comprises a first spacer part. A light transmission part of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer is arranged opposite to a light transmission part of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer, and the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer is rotatably connected to the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer. The second liquid crystal dimming functional layer comprises a second spacer layer, and the second spacer layer comprises a second spacer part. The liquid crystal dimming filter has a wider adjustment range of light transmission rate, can be used as a dimmer or a starlight mirror, and expands the use range of the liquid crystal dimming filter.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of liquid crystal technology, and more specifically, to a liquid crystal dimming filter and dimming device. Background Technology

[0002] Liquid crystal dimming filters are devices that utilize the optical properties of liquid crystal materials to adjust light intensity. Liquid crystals are crystalline substances with liquid-like flow properties, and their molecular arrangement lies between that of crystals and liquids. By applying an electric field, the arrangement of liquid crystal molecules can be altered, thereby changing their light transmittance and absorption. This property makes liquid crystal materials widely used in dimming devices.

[0003] However, current liquid crystal dimming devices have a small adjustment range and a narrow range of applications.

[0004] It should be noted that the information disclosed in the background section above is only used to enhance the understanding of the background of this disclosure, and therefore may include information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this disclosure is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a liquid crystal dimming filter and dimming device.

[0006] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a liquid crystal dimming filter is provided, comprising:

[0007] The first liquid crystal dimming functional layer includes a first spacer layer, and the first spacer layer includes a first spacer portion;

[0008] A second liquid crystal dimming functional layer is provided, wherein the light-transmitting portion of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer is disposed opposite to the light-transmitting portion of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer, and the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer is rotatably connected to the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer; the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer includes a second spacer layer, and the second spacer layer includes a second spacer portion.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer includes a first alignment film, and the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer includes a third alignment film; in a first state, the alignment direction of the first alignment film is parallel to the alignment direction of the third alignment film; in a second state, the alignment direction of the first alignment film intersects with the alignment direction of the third alignment film.

[0010] In one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer further includes a second alignment film, wherein the alignment direction of the second alignment film is parallel to the alignment direction of the first alignment film;

[0011] And / or, the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer includes a fourth alignment film, the alignment direction of which is parallel to the alignment direction of the third alignment film.

[0012] In one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, in a first state, the extending direction of the first septum portion intersects the extending direction of the second septum portion; in a second state, the extending direction of the first septum portion is parallel to the extending direction of the second septum portion.

[0013] In one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, in the second state, the orthographic projection of the second spacer portion onto the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer does not overlap with the first spacer portion, or the orthographic projection of the second spacer portion onto the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer at least partially overlaps with the first spacer portion.

[0014] In one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the first spacer portion is configured as a strip, or the first spacer portion includes at least two spaced-apart first sub-spacer portions;

[0015] And / or, the second septum portion is configured as a strip, or, the second septum portion includes at least two spaced-apart second sub-septum portions.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the distance between two adjacent first sub-spacers along a first direction is a first distance; the distance between two adjacent first sub-spacers along a second direction is a second distance, and the ratio of the first distance to the second distance is greater than or equal to 2, or the ratio of the first distance to the second distance is less than or equal to 0.5.

[0017] And / or, the distance between two adjacent second sub-spacers along the first direction is the third distance; the distance between two adjacent second sub-spacers along the second direction is the fourth distance, the ratio of the third distance to the fourth distance is greater than or equal to 2, or the ratio of the third distance to the fourth distance is less than or equal to 0.5;

[0018] Both the first direction and the second direction are parallel to the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer, and the second direction intersects with the first direction.

[0019] In one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the first spacer layer further includes a third spacer portion, the extension direction of which intersects with but is not perpendicular to the orientation direction of the first orientation film;

[0020] And / or, the second spacer layer further includes a fourth spacer portion, the extension direction of which intersects with but is not perpendicular to the orientation direction of the third orientation film.

[0021] In one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer further includes:

[0022] First basal layer;

[0023] A first transparent conductive layer is disposed on one side of the first substrate layer. The first transparent conductive layer includes at least two spaced-apart first sub-electrodes. The first alignment film is disposed on the side of the first transparent conductive layer opposite to the first substrate layer.

[0024] The first dye liquid crystal layer and the first spacer layer are disposed on the side of the first alignment film opposite to the first substrate layer;

[0025] A second transparent conductive layer is disposed on the side of the first dye liquid crystal layer and the first spacer layer away from the first substrate layer. The second transparent conductive layer includes at least two spaced second sub-electrodes, and the orthographic projection of the second sub-electrodes on the first substrate layer coincides with the orthographic projection of the first sub-electrodes on the first substrate layer.

[0026] The second substrate layer is disposed on the side of the second transparent conductive layer opposite to the first substrate layer.

[0027] In one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer further includes:

[0028] Third basal layer;

[0029] A third transparent conductive layer is disposed on one side of the third substrate layer. The third transparent conductive layer includes at least two spaced third sub-electrodes. The third alignment film is disposed on the side of the third transparent conductive layer opposite to the third substrate layer.

[0030] The second dye liquid crystal layer and the second spacer layer are disposed on the side of the third alignment film opposite to the third substrate layer;

[0031] A fourth transparent conductive layer is disposed on the side of the second dye liquid crystal layer and the second spacer layer away from the third substrate layer. The fourth transparent conductive layer includes at least two spaced fourth sub-electrodes, and the orthographic projection of the fourth sub-electrodes on the third substrate layer coincides with the orthographic projection of the third sub-electrodes on the third substrate layer.

[0032] The fourth substrate layer is disposed on the side of the fourth transparent conductive layer opposite to the third substrate layer.

[0033] In one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the orthographic projection of the fourth sub-electrode on the first substrate layer coincides with the orthographic projection of the first sub-electrode on the first substrate layer.

[0034] In one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer further includes:

[0035] A first flexible circuit board is electrically connected to the first transparent conductive layer;

[0036] The second flexible circuit board is electrically connected to the second transparent conductive layer;

[0037] The second liquid crystal dimming functional layer also includes:

[0038] The third flexible circuit board is electrically connected to the third transparent conductive layer;

[0039] The fourth flexible circuit board is electrically connected to the fourth transparent conductive layer.

[0040] In one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the liquid crystal dimming filter further includes:

[0041] The controller is electrically connected to the first flexible circuit board, the second flexible circuit board, the third flexible circuit board, and the fourth flexible circuit board. The controller is used to control the voltage of the first transparent conductive layer, the second transparent conductive layer, the third transparent conductive layer, and the fourth transparent conductive layer.

[0042] In one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the liquid crystal dimming filter further includes:

[0043] A photosensitive sensor, the output of which is electrically connected to the input of the controller.

[0044] In one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the liquid crystal dimming filter further includes:

[0045] The first outer frame surrounds the outer periphery of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer;

[0046] The second outer frame is disposed around the outer periphery of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer, and the second outer frame is rotatably connected to the first outer frame so that the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer is rotatably connected to the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer.

[0047] In one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the first outer frame includes:

[0048] The first frame surrounds the outer periphery of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer;

[0049] A first magnetic attraction part is provided on the first frame;

[0050] The second outer frame includes:

[0051] The second frame surrounds the outer periphery of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer;

[0052] The second magnetic part is provided on the second frame, and the second magnetic part is attracted to the first magnetic part.

[0053] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a dimming device is provided, comprising: a liquid crystal dimming filter, which is the liquid crystal dimming filter described in any of the preceding claims.

[0054] The disclosed liquid crystal dimming filter has several advantages. First, the transmittance of both the first and second liquid crystal dimming layers is adjustable, resulting in a wider range of transmittance adjustment and stepless control. Furthermore, when used in cameras or camcorders, this filter prevents shadows at specific focal lengths of the lens, ensuring image quality. Second, the second and first liquid crystal dimming layers can rotate relative to each other, changing the orientation of the second layer. This allows the filter to be used as a neutral density filter or a star filter. The change in the relative positions of the first and second spacers induces different diffraction phenomena, achieving various star effects and expanding the filter's application range.

[0055] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0056] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure. It is obvious that the drawings described below are merely some embodiments of this disclosure, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any inventive effort.

[0057] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an example embodiment of the liquid crystal dimming filter disclosed herein.

[0058] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an example embodiment of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer and the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer.

[0059] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of an example embodiment of the first spacer layer in the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer.

[0060] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of an example embodiment of the second spacer layer in the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer.

[0061] Figure 5 for Figure 3 The first liquid crystal dimming functional layer and Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer in the second state.

[0062] Figure 6 for Figure 3 The first liquid crystal dimming functional layer and Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer in the first state.

[0063] Figure 7 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of another example embodiment of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer and the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer.

[0064] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first spacer layer in the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer in a second example embodiment.

[0065] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a second example embodiment of the second spacer layer in the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer.

[0066] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first spacer layer in the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer in a third example embodiment.

[0067] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second spacer layer in the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer in a third example embodiment.

[0068] Figure 12 for Figure 10 The first liquid crystal dimming functional layer and Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer in the second state.

[0069] Figure 13 for Figure 10 The first liquid crystal dimming functional layer and Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer in the first state.

[0070] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second spacer layer in the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer in a fourth example embodiment.

[0071] Figure 15 for Figure 10 The first liquid crystal dimming functional layer and Figure 14 A schematic diagram of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer in the second state.

[0072] Figure 16 for Figure 10 The first liquid crystal dimming functional layer and Figure 14A schematic diagram of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer in the first state.

[0073] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of an example embodiment of the first transparent conductive layer and the second transparent conductive layer in the liquid crystal dimming filter of this disclosure.

[0074] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of an example embodiment of the third and fourth transparent conductive layers in the liquid crystal dimming filter of this disclosure.

[0075] Figure 19 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure on the back of the first and second liquid crystal dimming functional layers.

[0076] Figure 20 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first outer frame of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer and the second outer frame of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer.

[0077] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0078] 1. First liquid crystal dimming functional layer; 11. First substrate layer; 12. First transparent conductive layer; 121. First sub-electrode; 13. First alignment film; 14. First dye liquid crystal layer; 15. First spacer layer; 151. First spacer portion; 1511. First sub-spacer portion; 152. Third spacer portion; 16. Second alignment film; 17. Second transparent conductive layer; 171. Second sub-electrode; 18. Second substrate layer; 191. First bonding pad; 192. Second bonding pad;

[0079] 2. Second liquid crystal dimming functional layer; 21. Third substrate layer; 22. Third transparent conductive layer; 221. Third sub-electrode; 23. Third alignment film; 24. Second dye liquid crystal layer; 25. Second spacer layer; 251. Second spacer portion; 2511. Second sub-spacer portion; 252. Fourth spacer portion; 26. Fourth alignment film; 27. Fourth transparent conductive layer; 271. Fourth sub-electrode; 28. Fourth substrate layer; 291. Third bonding pad; 292. Fourth bonding pad;

[0080] 31. First flexible circuit board; 32. Second flexible circuit board; 33. Third flexible circuit board; 34. Fourth flexible circuit board;

[0081] 41. First outer frame; 411. First frame body; 412. First magnetic attachment part; 42. Second outer frame; 421. Second frame body; 422. Second magnetic attachment part;

[0082] 5. Controller; 6. Photosensitive sensor;

[0083] 71. First frame; 72. Second frame;

[0084] X, the first direction; Y, the second direction. Detailed Implementation

[0085] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments can be implemented in many forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, they are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the concept of the exemplary embodiments to those skilled in the art. The same reference numerals in the drawings denote the same or similar structures, and therefore detailed descriptions of them will be omitted. Furthermore, the drawings are merely illustrative of this disclosure and are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0086] Although relative terms such as "up" and "down" are used in this specification to describe the relative relationship of one component of an icon to another, these terms are used only for convenience, such as according to the orientation of the examples shown in the accompanying drawings. It is understood that if the device of the icon is flipped upside down, the component described as "up" will become the component described as "down." When a structure is "up" of another structure, it may mean that the structure is integrally formed on the other structure, or that the structure is "directly" mounted on the other structure, or that the structure is "indirectly" mounted on the other structure through another structure.

[0087] The terms “a,” “one,” “the,” “the,” and “at least one” are used to indicate the presence of one or more elements / components / etc.; the terms “including” and “having” are used to indicate an open-ended inclusion and to mean that there may be other elements / components / etc. in addition to the listed elements / components / etc.; the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc., are used only as markers and are not a limitation on the number of objects.

[0088] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the term "connection" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. "And / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Furthermore, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0089] This disclosure provides an example embodiment of a liquid crystal dimming filter, with reference to... Figures 1-20 As shown, Figures 3-6 , Figures 10-16The direction of the middle arrow indicates the orientation direction; the liquid crystal dimming filter may include a first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 and a second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2; the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 may include a first spacer layer 15, the first spacer layer 15 includes a first spacer portion 151; the light-transmitting portion of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 is disposed opposite to the light-transmitting portion of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1, and the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 is rotatably connected to the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1; the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 may include a second spacer layer 25, the second spacer layer 25 includes a second spacer portion 251.

[0090] The liquid crystal dimming filter disclosed herein has several advantages. First, the transmittance of both the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 and the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 can be adjusted, resulting in a wider range of transmittance adjustment and stepless control. Furthermore, when used in cameras or camcorders, this liquid crystal dimming filter prevents shadows from appearing at specific focal lengths of the lens, ensuring image quality. Second, the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 and the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 can rotate relative to each other, changing the orientation of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 relative to the orientation of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1. This allows the liquid crystal dimming filter to be used as a neutral density filter or a star filter. Moreover, changing the relative positions of the first spacer portion 151 and the second spacer portion 251 causes different diffraction phenomena, achieving different star effects and thus expanding the application range of the liquid crystal dimming filter.

[0091] In this example embodiment, the light-transmitting portion of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 is disposed opposite to the light-transmitting portion of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1, that is, the light-transmitting surface of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 is disposed directly opposite to the light-transmitting surface of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1, so that light passing through the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 can reach the light-transmitting portion of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1, or light passing through the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 can reach the light-transmitting portion of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2.

[0092] Specifically, the shape of the second liquid crystal dimming layer 2 can be the same as the shape of the first liquid crystal dimming layer 1. For example, if the first liquid crystal dimming layer 1 is circular, the second liquid crystal dimming layer 2 can also be circular; if the first liquid crystal dimming layer 1 is rectangular, the second liquid crystal dimming layer 2 can also be rectangular; if the first liquid crystal dimming layer 1 is elliptical, the second liquid crystal dimming layer 2 can also be elliptical. The area of ​​the second liquid crystal dimming layer 2 can also be the same as the area of ​​the first liquid crystal dimming layer 1.

[0093] Of course, in some other exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the shape of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 may be different from the shape of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1; the area of ​​the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 may be different from the area of ​​the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1; the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 and the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 may also be configured with other shapes, which will not be described in detail here.

[0094] The transmittance of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 can be adjusted, and the transmittance of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 can also be adjusted, thereby making the transmittance adjustment range of the liquid crystal dimming filter wider and enabling stepless control; in addition, when the liquid crystal dimming filter is used in cameras and camcorders, no shadows will appear when used at specific focal lengths of the lens, so as to ensure image quality.

[0095] The first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 may include a first spacer layer 15, and the first spacer layer 15 may include a first spacer portion 151. The first spacer portion 151 can support and form a receiving space to receive the first dye liquid crystal layer 14.

[0096] The second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 may include a second spacer layer 25, and the second spacer layer 25 may include a second spacer portion 251. The second spacer portion 251 can support and form a receiving space to receive the second dye liquid crystal layer 24.

[0097] The second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 is rotatably connected to the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1, that is, the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 and the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 can rotate relative to each other, so that the orientation direction of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 changes relative to the orientation direction of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1, so that the liquid crystal dimming filter can be used as a neutral density filter or a star filter; and the relative position of the first spacer portion 151 and the second spacer portion 251 changes, causing different diffraction phenomena and achieving different star effects.

[0098] Reference Figure 2As shown, since the structure of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 and the structure of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 can be the same, a single figure is used to represent the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 and the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2. In some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 may further include a first substrate layer 11, a first transparent conductive layer 12, a first alignment film 13, a first dye liquid crystal layer 14, a second transparent conductive layer 17, and a second substrate layer 18. The first transparent conductive layer 12 is disposed on one side of the first substrate layer 11, and the first alignment film 13 is disposed on the side of the first transparent conductive layer 12 away from the first substrate layer 11; the first dye liquid crystal layer 14 and the first spacer layer 15 are disposed on the side of the first alignment film 13 away from the first substrate layer 11; the second transparent conductive layer 17 is disposed on the side of the first dye liquid crystal layer 14 and the first spacer layer 15 away from the first substrate layer 11; and the second substrate layer 18 is disposed on the side of the second transparent conductive layer 17 away from the first substrate layer 11.

[0099] The first substrate layer 11 can be rigid, and its material can be glass, silicon nitride, silicon oxide, etc. The first substrate layer 11 can also be flexible, meaning it is easily bent. Specifically, the material of the first substrate layer 11 can be a flexible material; for example, it can be an organic material, such as polyimide, polycarbonate, polyacrylate, polyetherimide, polyethersulfone, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyethylene naphthalate resins. The first substrate layer 11 can be a single-layer structure formed from the above materials, or it can be a two-layer or multi-layer stacked structure formed from the above materials.

[0100] The second substrate layer 18 can be rigid, and its material can be glass, silicon nitride, silicon oxide, etc. The second substrate layer 18 can also be flexible, meaning it can be easily bent; its material can be flexible materials, specifically organic materials, such as resins like polyimide, polycarbonate, polyacrylate, polyetherimide, polyethersulfone, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyethylene naphthalate. The second substrate layer 18 can be a single-layer structure formed from the above materials, or it can be a stacked structure of two or more layers formed from the above materials.

[0101] The first transparent conductive layer 12 can be made of materials such as indium tin oxide (ITO), fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO), or zinc oxide (ZnO). The second transparent conductive layer 17 can also be made of materials such as indium tin oxide (ITO), fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO), or zinc oxide (ZnO). These materials improve their conductivity through doping and other methods while maintaining high optical transmittance.

[0102] The formation process of the first alignment film 13 is as follows: a first alignment film material layer is coated on the entire side of the first transparent conductive layer 12 away from the first substrate layer 11. After high-temperature baking, rubbing alignment is performed, and the direction of rubbing alignment is the alignment direction of the first alignment film 13. The alignment direction of the first alignment film 13 is the alignment direction of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1.

[0103] The first dye-liquid crystal layer 14 can be made of dye-liquid crystal, meaning it can include both liquid crystal and dye. Dye-liquid crystal is a special type of liquid crystal formed by adding dichroic dyes to a liquid crystal material. Under normal conditions, dye-liquid crystal absorbs light, causing the material to display a specific color or grayscale. Dye molecules can be used to adjust the optical properties of the liquid crystal, especially in terms of light absorption, emission, and response speed. The introduction of dyes can alter the refractive index and optical symmetry of the liquid crystal. When an electric current is applied, the voltage controls the deflection of the dye-liquid crystal molecules. By adjusting the intensity of the electric field, the light transmittance can be changed, enabling light modulation and control, thereby adjusting the display effect. In other words, dye-liquid crystal is a functional material that can absorb different degrees of external light through the adjustment of the electric field. Furthermore, dye-liquid crystal is generally in a fluid state at room temperature and readily flows under external tension or pressure. The color of the first dye-liquid crystal layer 14 can be selected as needed.

[0104] A first frame 71 is provided between the first substrate layer 11 and the second substrate layer 18. The first frame 71 and the first substrate layer 11 and the second substrate layer 18 can form a sealed space for accommodating the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1.

[0105] The first spacer layer 15 can support the first base layer 11 and the second base layer 18 to ensure that a fixed sealed space is formed between the first base layer 11 and the second base layer 18 to accommodate the first dye liquid crystal layer 14.

[0106] The transmittance of the first spacer layer 15 is basically consistent with the transmittance of other structures in the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1. For example, in the absence of power, the transmittance of the first spacer layer 15 is basically consistent with the transmittance of the first substrate layer 11, the second substrate layer 18, and the first dye liquid crystal layer 14, thus avoiding bright spots caused by excessive transmittance of the first spacer layer 15 and dark spots caused by insufficient transmittance of the first spacer layer 15.

[0107] The refractive index of the first spacer layer 15 is different from the refractive index of other structures in the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1. For example, the refractive index of the first spacer layer 15 is different from the refractive index of the first substrate layer 11, the second substrate layer 18, and the first dye liquid crystal layer 14, so that light can be refracted at the first spacer layer 15 to produce a starlight effect.

[0108] Reference Figure 2 As shown, in some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 may further include a third substrate layer 21, a third transparent conductive layer 22, a third alignment film 23, a second dye liquid crystal layer 24, a fourth transparent conductive layer 27, and a fourth substrate layer 28. The third transparent conductive layer 22 is disposed on one side of the third substrate layer 21, and the third alignment film 23 is disposed on the side of the third transparent conductive layer 22 away from the third substrate layer 21; the second dye liquid crystal layer 24 and the second spacer layer 25 are disposed on the side of the third alignment film 23 away from the third substrate layer 21; the fourth transparent conductive layer 27 is disposed on the side of the second dye liquid crystal layer 24 and the second spacer layer 25 away from the third substrate layer 21; and the fourth substrate layer 28 is disposed on the side of the fourth transparent conductive layer 27 away from the third substrate layer 21.

[0109] The third substrate layer 21 can be rigid, and its material can be glass, silicon nitride, silicon oxide, etc. The third substrate layer 21 can also be flexible, meaning it is easily bent; its material can be flexible materials, specifically organic materials, such as resins like polyimide, polycarbonate, polyacrylate, polyetherimide, polyethersulfone, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyethylene naphthalate. The third substrate layer 21 can be a single-layer structure formed from the above materials, or it can be a stacked structure of two or more layers formed from the above materials.

[0110] The fourth substrate layer 28 can be rigid, and its material can be glass, silicon nitride, silicon oxide, etc. The fourth substrate layer 28 can also be flexible, meaning it can be easily bent; its material can be flexible materials, specifically organic materials, such as resins like polyimide, polycarbonate, polyacrylate, polyetherimide, polyethersulfone, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyethylene naphthalate. The fourth substrate layer 28 can be a single-layer structure formed from the above materials, or it can be a stacked structure of two or more layers formed from the above materials.

[0111] The third transparent conductive layer 22 can be made of materials such as indium tin oxide (ITO), fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO), or zinc oxide (ZnO). The fourth transparent conductive layer 27 can also be made of materials such as indium tin oxide (ITO), fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO), or zinc oxide (ZnO). These materials improve their conductivity through doping and other methods while maintaining high optical transmittance.

[0112] The formation process of the third alignment film 23 is as follows: a layer of third alignment film material is coated on the entire side of the third transparent conductive layer 22 opposite to the third substrate layer 21. After high-temperature baking, rubbing alignment is performed, and the direction of rubbing alignment is the alignment direction of the third alignment film 23. The alignment direction of the third alignment film 23 is the alignment direction of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2.

[0113] The second dye-liquid crystal layer 24 can be made of dye-liquid crystal, meaning it can include both liquid crystal and dye. Alternatively, dye-liquid crystal can be described as a special type of liquid crystal formed by adding dichroic dyes to a liquid crystal material. The characteristics of dye-liquid crystals have already been described in detail above and will not be repeated here. The color of the second dye-liquid crystal layer 24 can be selected as needed.

[0114] A second frame 72 is provided between the third substrate layer 21 and the fourth substrate layer 28. The second frame 72, the third substrate layer 21 and the fourth substrate layer 28 can form a sealed space for accommodating the second dye liquid crystal layer 24.

[0115] The second spacer layer 25 can support the third base layer 21 and the fourth base layer 28 to ensure that a fixed sealed space is formed between the third base layer 21 and the fourth base layer 28 to accommodate the second dye liquid crystal layer 24.

[0116] The transmittance of the second spacer layer 25 is basically the same as the transmittance of other structures in the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2. For example, in the unpowered state, the transmittance of the second spacer layer 25 is basically the same as the transmittance of the third substrate layer 21, the fourth substrate layer 28, and the second dye liquid crystal layer 24, thus avoiding bright spots caused by excessive transmittance of the second spacer layer 25 and dark spots caused by insufficient transmittance of the second spacer layer 25.

[0117] The refractive index of the second spacer layer 25 is different from the refractive index of other structures in the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2. For example, the refractive index of the second spacer layer 25 is different from the refractive index of the third substrate layer 21 and the fourth substrate layer 28 as well as the refractive index of the second dye liquid crystal layer 24, so that light can be refracted at the second spacer layer 25 to produce a starlight effect.

[0118] Reference Figure 6As shown, in the first state, the orientation direction of the first alignment film 13 is parallel to the orientation direction of the third alignment film 23. At this time, the dimming range is very narrow. The liquid crystal dimming filter is not used as a neutral density filter, but is used as a star filter in the state without power. Therefore, the first state is a star filter.

[0119] This allows the second liquid crystal dimming layer 2 to rotate relative to the first liquid crystal dimming layer 1. For example, the second liquid crystal dimming layer 2 can be rotated, the first liquid crystal dimming layer 1 can be rotated, or both the first liquid crystal dimming layer 1 and the second liquid crystal dimming layer 2 can be rotated. (Refer to...) Figure 5 As shown, the second state is reached when the orientation direction of the first alignment film 13 intersects with the orientation direction of the third alignment film 23. For example, the orientation direction of the first alignment film 13 and the orientation direction of the third alignment film 23 can be perpendicular. This allows the long axis direction of the liquid crystal molecules in the first dye liquid crystal layer 14 to intersect with the long axis direction of the liquid crystal molecules in the second dye liquid crystal layer 24. For example, the long axis direction of the liquid crystal molecules in the first dye liquid crystal layer 14 is perpendicular to the long axis direction of the liquid crystal molecules in the second dye liquid crystal layer 24.

[0120] In the first dye-liquid layer 14, light from a specific direction is absorbed, while the remaining light passes through and enters the second dye-liquid layer 24. Since the orientation of the second dye-liquid layer 24 is orthogonal to that of the first dye-liquid layer 14, the light transmitted through the first dye-liquid layer 14 is further absorbed in the second dye-liquid layer 24. This superposition effect makes the liquid crystal dimming filter absorb light more thoroughly, thereby enhancing the dimming effect. Furthermore, orthogonally oriented liquid crystal molecules can more effectively control the transmission and blocking of light, thus producing a more obvious contrast between bright and dark states. At this point, optimal contrast can be achieved, and the liquid crystal dimming filter is used as a neutral density (ND) filter. Different ND filter levels can be switched by adjusting the transmittance, which is beneficial for improving the visual effect and user experience of the liquid crystal dimming filter. In addition, by changing the direction and intensity of the electric field, the orientation and arrangement of the two layers of liquid crystal molecules can be controlled, thereby achieving bidirectional dimming functionality, allowing the liquid crystal dimming filter to adapt to different lighting environments and user needs; therefore, the second state is a neutral density (ND) filter.

[0121] In summary, by rotating the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 relative to the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1, the star filter and the neutral density filter can be adjusted, so that the liquid crystal dimming filter can be used as a neutral density filter or a star filter, thus expanding the application range of the liquid crystal dimming filter; when the liquid crystal dimming filter is used in a camera or camcorder, it is not necessary to frequently change the lens.

[0122] Reference Figure 7As shown, since the structure of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 and the structure of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 can be the same, a single figure is used to represent the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 and the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2. In some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 may further include a second alignment film 16, which is disposed between the first dye liquid crystal layer 14, the first spacer layer 15, and the second transparent conductive layer 17; the alignment direction of the second alignment film 16 is parallel to the alignment direction of the first alignment film 13.

[0123] In some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 may further include a fourth alignment film 26, which is disposed between the second dye liquid crystal layer 24, the second spacer layer 25, and the fourth transparent conductive layer 27; the alignment direction of the fourth alignment film 26 is parallel to the alignment direction of the third alignment film 23.

[0124] Of course. In some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, when the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 includes the second alignment film 16, the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 may not include the fourth alignment film 26; that is, the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 adopts... Figure 7 The structure in the middle, and the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 adopts Figure 1 The structure is as follows. When the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 includes a fourth alignment film 26, the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 may not include the second alignment film 16; that is, the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 adopts... Figure 1 The structure in the middle, and the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 adopts Figure 7 The structure in.

[0125] Reference Figure 3 As shown, in some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the first spacer portion 151 can be configured as a strip, for example, the first spacer portion 151 can be configured as a straight strip, and the length direction of the first spacer portion 151 is the extension direction of the first spacer portion 151. The extension direction of the first spacer portion 151 can intersect with the orientation direction of the first alignment film 13, for example, the extension direction of the first spacer portion 151 can be perpendicular to the orientation direction of the first alignment film 13.

[0126] Reference Figure 4 As shown, the second spacer portion 251 can be configured as a strip, for example, the second spacer portion 251 can be configured as a straight strip, and the length direction of the second spacer portion 251 is the extension direction of the first spacer portion 151. The extension direction of the second spacer portion 251 can be parallel to the orientation direction of the second alignment film 16, or it can intersect with the orientation direction of the second alignment film 16.

[0127] Of course, in some other exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the first spacer portion 151 may be configured as a curved strip, and the curve may include one or both of a broken line and an arc; the first spacer portion 151 also extends along its length direction. The second spacer portion 251 may be configured as a curved strip, and the curve may include one or both of a broken line and an arc. The second spacer portion 251 also extends substantially along its length direction.

[0128] The extension directions of the first septum portion 151 and the second septum portion 251 need to be designed in coordination to meet the requirements of the first and second states.

[0129] Reference Figure 6 As shown, in some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, in a first state, the extending direction of the first spacer portion 151 intersects the extending direction of the second spacer portion 251. That is, when the liquid crystal dimming filter is used as a star filter, the extending direction of the first spacer portion 151 intersects the extending direction of the second spacer portion 251. For example, the extending direction of the first spacer portion 151 is perpendicular to the extending direction of the second spacer portion 251, which can achieve a better star effect.

[0130] Reference Figure 5 As shown, in the second state, the extending direction of the first septum portion 151 is parallel to the extending direction of the second septum portion 251; that is, when the liquid crystal dimming filter is used as a light-reducing filter, the extending direction of the first septum portion 151 is parallel to the extending direction of the second septum portion 251, which can achieve a better light-reducing effect.

[0131] Reference Figure 5 As shown, in some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, in the second state, the orthographic projection of the second spacer portion 251 on the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 does not overlap with the first spacer portion 151, thereby causing the first spacer portion 151 and the second spacer portion 251 to be staggered relative to each other. For example, the orthographic projection of the second spacer portion 251 on the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 and the first spacer portion 151 can be evenly alternated, that is, a first spacer portion 151 can be provided between the orthographic projections of two adjacent second spacer portions 251 on the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1, and a second spacer portion 251 can be provided between two adjacent first spacer portions 151 on the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1, and the spacing between the two adjacent spaces is the same.

[0132] Of course, in some other exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the second spacer portion 251 may be arranged alternately with the first spacer portion 151 on the orthographic projection of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1.

[0133] Reference Figure 15As shown, in some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, in the second state, the orthographic projection of the second spacer portion 251 on the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 at least partially overlaps with the first spacer portion 151. For example, a portion of the orthographic projection of the second spacer portion 251 on the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 may overlap with a portion of the first spacer portion 151, or the orthographic projection of the second spacer portion 251 on the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 may be located within the first spacer portion 151, or the first spacer portion 151 may be located within the orthographic projection of the second spacer portion 251 on the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1.

[0134] Reference Figure 8 As shown, in some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the first spacer portion 151 may include at least two spaced-apart first sub-spacer portions 1511, that is, a first gap is provided between two adjacent first sub-spacer portions 1511; for example, the first spacer portion 151 may include two spaced-apart first sub-spacer portions 1511, or the first spacer portion 151 may include three or more spaced-apart first sub-spacer portions 1511. The cross-sectional shape of the first sub-spacer portion 1511 may be circular, rectangular, elliptical, or other regular or irregular shapes. In this case, the extending direction of the first spacer portion 151 is the extending direction after the at least two spaced-apart first sub-spacer portions 1511 are connected to form a strip structure.

[0135] Reference Figure 9 As shown, the second spacer portion 251 may also include at least two spaced-apart second sub-spacer portions 2511, that is, a second gap is provided between two adjacent second sub-spacer portions 2511; for example, the second spacer portion 251 may include two spaced-apart second sub-spacer portions 2511, or the second spacer portion 251 may include three or more spaced-apart second sub-spacer portions 2511. The cross-sectional shape of the second sub-spacer portion 2511 may be circular, rectangular, elliptical, or other regular or irregular shapes. In this case, the extending direction of the second spacer portion 251 is the extending direction after the at least two spaced-apart second sub-spacer portions 2511 are connected to form a strip structure.

[0136] Optionally, refer to Figure 8 As shown, the distance between two adjacent first sub-spacer portions 1511 along the first direction X is the first distance H1, and the distance between two adjacent first sub-spacer portions 1511 along the second direction Y is the second distance H2. The ratio of the first distance H1 to the second distance H2 is less than or equal to 0.5. For example, the ratio of the first distance H1 to the second distance H2 can be 0.1, 0.15, 0.2, 0.25, 0.3, 0.35, 0.4, 0.45, etc. This arrangement ensures that at least two first sub-spacer portions 1511 form a strip along the first direction X, which can intersect with the second spacer portion 251, easily creating a starlight effect.

[0137] Alternatively, the ratio of the first spacing to the second spacing can be greater than or equal to 2. For example, the ratio of the first spacing to the second spacing can be 2.2, 2.5, 2.7, 3, 3.3, 3.5, 3.8, 4, 4.2, 4.5, 4.7, 5, etc. This arrangement ensures that at least two first sub-spacers 1511 form strips along the second direction Y, which can intersect with the second spacer 251, easily creating a starlight effect.

[0138] Optionally, refer to Figure 9 As shown, the distance between two adjacent second sub-spacer portions 2511 along the first direction X is the third distance H3, and the distance between two adjacent second sub-spacer portions 2511 along the second direction Y is the fourth distance H4. The ratio of the third distance H3 to the fourth distance H4 is less than or equal to 0.5. For example, the ratio of the third distance H3 to the fourth distance H4 can be 0.1, 0.15, 0.2, 0.25, 0.3, 0.35, 0.4, 0.45, etc. This arrangement ensures that at least two second sub-spacer portions 2511 form a strip along the first direction X, which can intersect with the second spacer portion 251, easily creating a starlight effect.

[0139] Alternatively, the ratio of the third spacing to the fourth spacing can be greater than or equal to 2. For example, the ratio of the third spacing to the fourth spacing can be 2.2, 2.5, 2.7, 3, 3.3, 3.5, 3.8, 4, 4.2, 4.5, 4.7, 5, etc. This arrangement ensures that at least two second sub-spacer portions 2511 form strips along the second direction Y, which can intersect with the second spacer portion 251, easily creating a starlight effect.

[0140] It should be noted that both the first direction X and the second direction Y are parallel to the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1, and the second direction Y intersects with the first direction X. For example, the second direction Y and the first direction X can be perpendicular.

[0141] The first spacer portion 151 is configured as follows Figure 8 The structure and the second septum portion 251 are configured as follows Figure 9 In the case of the structure described above, the orthographic projections of the first sub-spacer portion 1511 and the second sub-spacer portion 2511 on the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 at least partially overlap. For example, the first sub-spacer portion 1511 may be located within the orthographic projection of the second sub-spacer portion 2511 on the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1; the orthographic projection of the second sub-spacer portion 2511 on the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 may be located within the first sub-spacer portion 1511; or a portion of the first sub-spacer portion 1511 may overlap with a portion of the orthographic projection of the second sub-spacer portion 2511 on the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1. This arrangement avoids the first sub-spacer portion 1511 and the second sub-spacer portion 2511 being too close, thus preventing diffraction when the liquid crystal dimming filter is used as a neutral density filter.

[0142] Of course, in some other exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the first spacer portion 151 is configured as Figure 8 The structure and the second septum portion 251 are configured as follows Figure 9 In the case of the structure, the first spacer portion 151 and the second spacer portion 251 may not overlap in their orthogonal projections on the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1, that is, the first spacer portion 151 and the second spacer portion 251 may be staggered.

[0143] Furthermore, when the orthographic projection of the second spacer portion 251 onto the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 does not overlap with the first spacer portion 151, that is, when the second spacer portion 251 and the first spacer portion 151 are misaligned, the distance between the orthographic projection of the second spacer portion 251 onto the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 and the first spacer portion 151 is greater than the maximum required size for visible light diffraction, thereby avoiding diffraction when the liquid crystal dimming filter is used as a neutral density filter. Of course, the distance between two adjacent first spacer portions 151 is also greater than the maximum required size for visible light diffraction, and the distance between two adjacent second spacer portions 251 is also greater than the maximum required size for visible light diffraction. (Refer to...) Figure 10 As shown, in some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the first spacer layer 15 may further include a third spacer portion 152. The third spacer portion 152 may be configured as a strip, for example, the third spacer portion 152 may be configured as a straight strip; the third spacer portion 152 may also be configured as a curved strip. The curve may include one or both of a broken line and an arc. The extending direction of the third spacer portion 152 intersects the orientation direction of the first alignment film 13, but is not perpendicular to it.

[0144] Reference Figure 11 and Figure 14 As shown, the second spacer layer 25 may further include a fourth spacer portion 252, which may be strip-shaped, for example, a straight strip; or a curved strip. The curve may include one or both of a broken line and an arc. The extending direction of the fourth spacer portion 252 may intersect with the orientation direction of the second alignment film 16, but is not perpendicular to it.

[0145] The extending direction of the third septum portion 152 may intersect with the extending direction of the fourth septum portion 252, or the extending direction of the third septum portion 152 may be parallel to the extending direction of the fourth septum portion 252.

[0146] In addition, the third septum portion 152 and the fourth septum portion 252 can be selectively provided in a liquid crystal dimming filter.

[0147] Reference Figure 13 and Figure 16As shown, in the first state, the third spacer portion 152 and the fourth spacer portion 252 are also arranged in an interleaved manner, so that the liquid crystal dimming filter can form a richer starlight effect.

[0148] Reference Figure 12 and 15 As shown in the figure, in the second state, the third spacer portion 152 and the fourth spacer portion 252 are also arranged in an intersecting manner, so that when the liquid crystal dimming filter is used as a neutral density filter, it can also reflect the starlight effect.

[0149] Reference Figure 17 As shown, since the structure of the first transparent conductive layer 12 and the structure of the second transparent conductive layer 17 can be the same, a single figure is used to represent the first transparent conductive layer 12 and the second transparent conductive layer 17. In some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the first transparent conductive layer 12 may include at least two spaced-apart first sub-electrodes 121, with a gap between adjacent first sub-electrodes 121 and no connection between them; for example, the first transparent conductive layer 12 may include two spaced-apart first sub-electrodes 121, or the first transparent conductive layer 12 may include three or more spaced-apart first sub-electrodes 121.

[0150] Reference Figure 17 As shown, the second transparent conductive layer 17 may include at least two spaced second sub-electrodes 171, with a gap between adjacent second sub-electrodes 171 and no connection between them; for example, the second transparent conductive layer 17 may include two spaced second sub-electrodes 171, or the second transparent conductive layer 17 may include three or more spaced second sub-electrodes 171.

[0151] The orthographic projection of the second sub-electrode 171 onto the first substrate 11 coincides with the orthographic projection of the first sub-electrode 121 onto the first substrate 11, that is, the edge line of the orthographic projection of the second sub-electrode 171 onto the first substrate 11 coincides with the edge line of the orthographic projection of the first sub-electrode 121 onto the first substrate 11.

[0152] This configuration divides a first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 into at least two regions. The electric field strength of a region can be controlled by a first sub-electrode 121 and a second sub-electrode 171, thereby controlling the light transmittance of that region. This allows each region of a first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 to have different light transmittances.

[0153] The zone control allows for shooting scenes requiring zoned lighting, such as sunsets, and can be used as a graduated neutral density filter. This setting enables the LCD dimming filter to function as a graduated neutral density filter, achieving the effect of a custom-designed filter. For example, when shooting specific scenes like the sea, the amount of light entering the upper zone of the dimming filter can be controlled, while the lower zone remains unchanged, suppressing the bright areas of the image.

[0154] Reference Figure 18 As shown, since the structure of the third transparent conductive layer 22 can be the same as that of the fourth transparent conductive layer 27, a single figure is used to represent the third transparent conductive layer 22 and the fourth transparent conductive layer 27. In some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the third transparent conductive layer 22 may include at least two spaced-apart third sub-electrodes 221, with a gap between adjacent third sub-electrodes 221 and no connection between them; for example, the third transparent conductive layer 22 may include two spaced-apart third sub-electrodes 221, or the third transparent conductive layer 22 may include three or more spaced-apart third sub-electrodes 221.

[0155] Reference Figure 18 As shown, the fourth transparent conductive layer 27 may include at least two spaced fourth sub-electrodes 271, with a gap between adjacent fourth sub-electrodes 271 and no connection between them; for example, the fourth transparent conductive layer 27 may include two spaced fourth sub-electrodes 271, or the fourth transparent conductive layer 27 may include three or more spaced fourth sub-electrodes 271.

[0156] The orthographic projection of the fourth sub-electrode 271 on the first substrate 11 coincides with the orthographic projection of the third sub-electrode 221 on the first substrate 11, that is, the edge line of the orthographic projection of the fourth sub-electrode 271 on the first substrate 11 coincides with the edge line of the orthographic projection of the third sub-electrode 221 on the first substrate 11.

[0157] This configuration divides a second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 into at least two regions. The electric field strength of a region can be controlled by a third sub-electrode 221 and a fourth sub-electrode 271, thereby controlling the light transmittance of that region. This allows different regions of a second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 to have different light transmittances.

[0158] The zone control allows for shooting scenes requiring zoned lighting, such as sunsets, and can be used as a graduated neutral density filter. This setting enables the LCD dimming filter to function as a graduated neutral density filter, achieving the effect of a custom-designed filter. For example, when shooting specific scenes like the sea, the amount of light entering the upper zone of the dimming filter can be controlled, while the lower zone remains unchanged, suppressing the bright areas of the image.

[0159] Alternatively, the orthographic projection of the fourth sub-electrode 271 on the first substrate 11 coincides with the orthographic projection of the first sub-electrode 121 on the first substrate 11, that is, the edge line of the orthographic projection of the fourth sub-electrode 271 on the first substrate 11 coincides with the edge line of the orthographic projection of the first sub-electrode 121 on the first substrate 11.

[0160] Since the orthographic projection of the fourth sub-electrode 271 on the first substrate 11 has been defined above, and the orthographic projection of the third sub-electrode 221 on the first substrate 11 has been defined above, and the orthographic projection of the second sub-electrode 171 on the first substrate 11 has been defined above, and the orthographic projection of the first sub-electrode 121 on the first substrate 11 has been defined above, this configuration ensures that the orthographic projections of the first sub-electrode 121, the second sub-electrode 171, the third sub-electrode 221, and the fourth sub-electrode 271 on the first substrate 11 all coincide. This makes the partitioning of the liquid crystal dimming filter, the partitioning of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1, and the partitioning of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 identical.

[0161] Of course, in some other exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the orthographic projection of the fourth sub-electrode 271 on the first substrate 11 may not coincide with the orthographic projection of the first sub-electrode 121 on the first substrate 11. This arrangement allows the liquid crystal dimming filter to have more partitions. For example, the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 has two partitions, namely the first partition and the second partition; the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 also has two partitions, namely the third partition and the fourth partition; the orthographic projection of the third partition on the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 is located within the first partition, and the second partition is located within the orthographic projection of the fourth partition on the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1, so that the first partition and the third partition overlap to form the first total partition, the first partition and the fourth partition overlap to form the second total partition, and the second partition and the fourth partition overlap to form the third total partition; this is more conducive to using the liquid crystal dimming filter as a graduated filter. The partition structure of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1, the partition structure of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2, and the overlapping method of the partitions of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 and the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 can also be other methods, which will not be described in detail here.

[0162] It should be noted that the above overlap does not only include complete overlap, but can also have a certain degree of error. The error range varies depending on the equipment and preparation process. Therefore, within the error range of the equipment and preparation process, it is considered to be overlap.

[0163] Reference Figure 19 As shown, since the structure of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 and the structure of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 can be the same, a single figure is used to represent the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 and the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2. The first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 may further include a first flexible circuit board 31 and a second flexible circuit board 32; the first flexible circuit board 31 is electrically connected to the first transparent conductive layer 12; specifically, the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 may further include a first bonding pad 191, the first bonding pad 191 is electrically connected to the first transparent conductive layer 12, and the first flexible circuit board 31 is bonded to the first bonding pad 191, thereby making the first flexible circuit board 31 electrically connected to the first transparent conductive layer 12.

[0164] When the first transparent conductive layer 12 is configured with two or more partitions, two or more wires can be led out from the first bonding pad 191, and the two or more wires are connected to the two or more partitions in a one-to-one correspondence. Of course, two or more first bonding pads 191 can also be configured, and the first bonding pads 191 are connected to the partitions of the first transparent conductive layer 12 in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0165] The second flexible circuit board 32 is electrically connected to the second transparent conductive layer 17. Specifically, the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 may also include a second bonding pad 192, which is electrically connected to the second transparent conductive layer 17. The second flexible circuit board 32 is bonded to the second bonding pad 192, thereby making the second flexible circuit board 32 electrically connected to the second transparent conductive layer 17.

[0166] When the second transparent conductive layer 17 is configured with two or more partitions, two or more wires can be led out from the second bonding pad 192, and the two or more wires are connected to the two or more partitions in a one-to-one correspondence. Of course, two or more second bonding pads 192 can also be provided, and the second bonding pads 192 are connected to the partitions of the second transparent conductive layer 17 in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0167] Reference Figure 19 As shown, the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 may further include a third flexible circuit board 33 and a fourth flexible circuit board 34; the third flexible circuit board 33 is electrically connected to the third transparent conductive layer 22; specifically, the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 may further include a third bonding pad 291, the third bonding pad 291 is electrically connected to the third transparent conductive layer 22, and the third flexible circuit board 33 is bonded to the third bonding pad 291, thereby making the third flexible circuit board 33 electrically connected to the third transparent conductive layer 22.

[0168] When the third transparent conductive layer 22 is configured with two or more partitions, two or more wires can be led out from the third bonding pad 291, and the two or more wires are connected to the two or more partitions in a one-to-one correspondence. Of course, two or more third bonding pads 291 can also be configured, and the third bonding pads 291 are connected to the partitions of the third transparent conductive layer 22 in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0169] The fourth flexible circuit board 34 is electrically connected to the fourth transparent conductive layer 27. Specifically, the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 may also include a fourth bonding pad 292, which is electrically connected to the fourth transparent conductive layer 27. The fourth flexible circuit board 34 is bonded to the fourth bonding pad 292, thereby making the fourth flexible circuit board 34 electrically connected to the fourth transparent conductive layer 27.

[0170] When the fourth transparent conductive layer 27 is configured with two or more partitions, two or more wires can be led out from the fourth bonding pad 292, and the two or more wires are connected to the two or more partitions in a one-to-one correspondence. Of course, two or more fourth bonding pads 292 can also be configured, and the fourth bonding pads 292 are connected to the partitions of the fourth transparent conductive layer 27 in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0171] Flexible circuit boards are used instead of printed circuit boards. Flexible circuit boards can be deformed, making it easy to fit with the outer frame.

[0172] Reference Figure 19 As shown, the liquid crystal dimming filter may also include a controller 5, which is electrically connected to the first flexible circuit board 31, the second flexible circuit board 32, the third flexible circuit board 33 and the fourth flexible circuit board 34, thereby making the controller 5 electrically connected to the first transparent conductive layer 12, the second transparent conductive layer 17, the third transparent conductive layer 22 and the fourth transparent conductive layer 27; the controller 5 is used to control the voltage of the first transparent conductive layer 12, the second transparent conductive layer 17, the third transparent conductive layer 22 and the fourth transparent conductive layer 27.

[0173] Human-computer interaction devices such as knobs can be set. The knobs are connected to the controller and the voltage of the first transparent conductive layer 12, the second transparent conductive layer 17, the third transparent conductive layer 22 and the fourth transparent conductive layer 27 can be manually controlled.

[0174] In some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the liquid crystal dimming filter may further include a photosensor 6. The output terminal of the photosensor 6 is electrically connected to the input terminal of the controller 5. The photosensor 6 can detect external light intensity and transmit the light intensity signal to the controller 5. The controller 5 can control the voltage of the first transparent conductive layer 12, the second transparent conductive layer 17, the third transparent conductive layer 22, and the fourth transparent conductive layer 27 according to the received light intensity signal. For example, the stronger the external light intensity, the greater the light intensity signal detected by the photosensor 6, and the greater the voltage controlled by the controller 5 for the first transparent conductive layer 12, the second transparent conductive layer 17, the third transparent conductive layer 22, and the fourth transparent conductive layer 27.

[0175] Reference Figure 20 As shown, since the structures of the first outer frame 41 and the second outer frame 42 can be identical, a single figure is used to represent the first outer frame 41 and the second outer frame 42. The liquid crystal dimming filter may further include a first outer frame 41 and a second outer frame 42; the first outer frame 41 surrounds the outer periphery of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1; the second outer frame 42 surrounds the outer periphery of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2, and the second outer frame 42 is rotatably connected to the first outer frame 41, so that the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 is rotatably connected to the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1.

[0176] Specifically, refer to Figure 20 As shown, the first outer frame 41 may include a first frame body 411 and a first magnetic attraction part 412; the first frame body 411 surrounds the outer periphery of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1; the material of the first frame body 411 may be rubber. The first magnetic attraction part 412 is disposed on the first frame body 411, and multiple first magnetic attraction parts 412 may be provided, and multiple first magnetic attraction parts 412 may be evenly arranged on the first frame body 411.

[0177] The second frame 421 is disposed around the outer periphery of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2; the material of the second frame 421 may be rubber. The second magnetic part 422 is disposed on the second frame 421, and multiple second magnetic parts 422 may be provided, and multiple second magnetic parts 422 may be evenly arranged on the second frame 421.

[0178] The first magnetic attraction part 412 and the second magnetic attraction part 422 can be attracted together to fix the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 and the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2. When rotation is required, the first magnetic attraction part 412 and the second magnetic attraction part 422 are disengaged, the first outer frame 41 and / or the second outer frame 42 are rotated, and after rotation to the position, the first magnetic attraction part 412 and the second magnetic attraction part 422 are attracted together again, thereby fixing the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 and the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 together again.

[0179] The first magnetic attraction part 412 and the second magnetic attraction part 422 can be electromagnets. When energized, the first magnetic attraction part 412 and the second magnetic attraction part 422 have magnetism and can attract each other; when de-energized, the first magnetic attraction part 412 and the second magnetic attraction part 422 do not have magnetism and cannot attract each other, which facilitates rotation.

[0180] A micro motor can be configured to drive the first outer frame 41 and / or the second outer frame 42 to rotate. For example, a gear ring can be provided around the first frame 411 and / or the second frame 421, with a drive gear fixed to the output end of the micro motor. The drive gear meshes with the gear ring, and the rotation of the micro motor can drive the meshing drive gear and gear ring to rotate, thereby driving the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer 1 and / or the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer 2 to rotate. Of course, the first outer frame 41 and / or the second outer frame 42 can also be rotated manually.

[0181] Based on the same inventive concept, the present disclosure provides a dimming device that may include a liquid crystal dimming filter. The liquid crystal dimming filter is any of the liquid crystal dimming filters described above. The specific structure of the liquid crystal dimming filter has been described above, so it will not be repeated here.

[0182] The dimming device can be an external filter, which can be connected to a camera, camcorder, or mobile terminal with photo and video recording functions such as mobile phone, tablet, and laptop; the dimming device can also be a camera or camcorder with photo and video recording functions.

[0183] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the dimming device provided by the exemplary embodiments of the present invention are the same as those of the liquid crystal dimming filter provided by the above exemplary embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0184] Other embodiments of this disclosure will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this disclosure that follow the general principles of this disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A liquid crystal dimming filter, characterized in that, include: The first liquid crystal dimming functional layer includes a first spacer layer, and the first spacer layer includes a first spacer portion; A second liquid crystal dimming functional layer is provided, wherein the light-transmitting portion of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer is disposed opposite to the light-transmitting portion of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer, and the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer is rotatably connected to the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer to switch between a first state and a second state; the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer includes a second spacer layer, and the second spacer layer includes a second spacer portion. The first liquid crystal dimming functional layer includes a first alignment film, and the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer includes a third alignment film; in a first state, the alignment direction of the first alignment film is parallel to the alignment direction of the third alignment film, and the first state is a star mirror; in a second state, the alignment direction of the first alignment film intersects with the alignment direction of the third alignment film, and the second state is a neutral density filter.

2. The liquid crystal dimming filter according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first liquid crystal dimming functional layer further includes a second alignment film, wherein the alignment direction of the second alignment film is parallel to the alignment direction of the first alignment film; And / or, the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer includes a fourth alignment film, the alignment direction of which is parallel to the alignment direction of the third alignment film.

3. The liquid crystal dimming filter according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that, In the first state, the extending direction of the first septum portion intersects the extending direction of the second septum portion; In the second state, the extending direction of the first septum portion is parallel to the extending direction of the second septum portion.

4. The liquid crystal dimming filter according to claim 3, characterized in that, In the second state, the orthographic projection of the second spacer portion onto the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer does not overlap with the first spacer portion, or the orthographic projection of the second spacer portion onto the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer at least partially overlaps with the first spacer portion.

5. The liquid crystal dimming filter according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that, The first spacer portion is configured as a strip, or the first spacer portion includes at least two spaced-apart first sub-spacer portions; And / or, the second septum portion is configured as a strip, or, the second septum portion includes at least two spaced-apart second sub-septum portions.

6. The liquid crystal dimming filter according to claim 5, characterized in that, The distance between two adjacent first sub-spacers along the first direction is the first distance; the distance between two adjacent first sub-spacers along the second direction is the second distance, and the ratio of the first distance to the second distance is greater than or equal to 2, or the ratio of the first distance to the second distance is less than or equal to 0.

5. And / or, the distance between two adjacent second sub-spacers along the first direction is the third distance; the distance between two adjacent second sub-spacers along the second direction is the fourth distance, the ratio of the third distance to the fourth distance is greater than or equal to 2, or the ratio of the third distance to the fourth distance is less than or equal to 0.5; Both the first direction and the second direction are parallel to the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer, and the second direction intersects with the first direction.

7. The liquid crystal dimming filter according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that, The first spacer layer further includes a third spacer portion, the extension direction of which intersects with but is not perpendicular to the orientation direction of the first orientation film; And / or, the second spacer layer further includes a fourth spacer portion, the extension direction of which intersects with but is not perpendicular to the orientation direction of the third orientation film.

8. The liquid crystal dimming filter according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that, The first liquid crystal dimming functional layer also includes: First basal layer; A first transparent conductive layer is disposed on one side of the first substrate layer. The first transparent conductive layer includes at least two spaced-apart first sub-electrodes. The first alignment film is disposed on the side of the first transparent conductive layer opposite to the first substrate layer. The first dye liquid crystal layer and the first spacer layer are disposed on the side of the first alignment film opposite to the first substrate layer; A second transparent conductive layer is disposed on the side of the first dye liquid crystal layer and the first spacer layer away from the first substrate layer. The second transparent conductive layer includes at least two spaced second sub-electrodes, and the orthographic projection of the second sub-electrodes on the first substrate layer coincides with the orthographic projection of the first sub-electrodes on the first substrate layer. The second substrate layer is disposed on the side of the second transparent conductive layer opposite to the first substrate layer.

9. The liquid crystal dimming filter according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second liquid crystal dimming functional layer also includes: Third basal layer; A third transparent conductive layer is disposed on one side of the third substrate layer. The third transparent conductive layer includes at least two spaced third sub-electrodes. The third alignment film is disposed on the side of the third transparent conductive layer opposite to the third substrate layer. The second dye liquid crystal layer and the second spacer layer are disposed on the side of the third alignment film opposite to the third substrate layer; A fourth transparent conductive layer is disposed on the side of the second dye liquid crystal layer and the second spacer layer away from the third substrate layer. The fourth transparent conductive layer includes at least two spaced fourth sub-electrodes, and the orthographic projection of the fourth sub-electrodes on the third substrate layer coincides with the orthographic projection of the third sub-electrodes on the third substrate layer. The fourth substrate layer is disposed on the side of the fourth transparent conductive layer opposite to the third substrate layer.

10. The liquid crystal dimming filter according to claim 9, characterized in that, The orthographic projection of the fourth sub-electrode on the first substrate layer coincides with the orthographic projection of the first sub-electrode on the first substrate layer.

11. The liquid crystal dimming filter according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first liquid crystal dimming functional layer also includes: A first flexible circuit board is electrically connected to the first transparent conductive layer; The second flexible circuit board is electrically connected to the second transparent conductive layer; The second liquid crystal dimming functional layer also includes: The third flexible circuit board is electrically connected to the third transparent conductive layer; The fourth flexible circuit board is electrically connected to the fourth transparent conductive layer.

12. The liquid crystal dimming filter according to claim 11, characterized in that, The liquid crystal dimming filter also includes: The controller is electrically connected to the first flexible circuit board, the second flexible circuit board, the third flexible circuit board, and the fourth flexible circuit board. The controller is used to control the voltage of the first transparent conductive layer, the second transparent conductive layer, the third transparent conductive layer, and the fourth transparent conductive layer.

13. The liquid crystal dimming filter according to claim 12, characterized in that, The liquid crystal dimming filter also includes: A photosensitive sensor, the output of which is electrically connected to the input of the controller.

14. The liquid crystal dimming filter according to claim 9, characterized in that, The liquid crystal dimming filter also includes: The first outer frame surrounds the outer periphery of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer; The second outer frame is disposed around the outer periphery of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer, and the second outer frame is rotatably connected to the first outer frame so that the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer is rotatably connected to the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer.

15. The liquid crystal dimming filter according to claim 14, characterized in that, The first outer frame includes: The first frame surrounds the outer periphery of the first liquid crystal dimming functional layer; A first magnetic attraction part is provided on the first frame; The second outer frame includes: The second frame surrounds the outer periphery of the second liquid crystal dimming functional layer; The second magnetic part is provided on the second frame, and the second magnetic part is attracted to the first magnetic part.

16. A dimming device, characterized in that, include: The liquid crystal dimming filter is the liquid crystal dimming filter as described in any one of claims 1 to 15.

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