Display device having liquid crystal panel and optical module

Abstract

A display device having a liquid crystal panel and an optical module is provided. The first light guide plate of the backlight unit may be disposed between the optical module and the liquid crystal panel. The liquid crystal panel may include a sensing area for detecting external light. The optical module may include a second light guide plate overlapping the sensing area of the liquid crystal panel and an optical device disposed on a path of external light passing through the first light guide plate and the second light guide plate. The optical module may include a light source device disposed on at least one of side surfaces perpendicular to an upper surface of the second light guide plate facing the first light guide plate. Accordingly, in the display apparatus, external light may be detected by the optical device without deteriorating the quality of an image provided to a user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a display device, and more particularly, for example but not limited to, a display device in which an optical module is disposed on one side of a liquid crystal panel. Background Art

[0002] Generally, a display device provides an image to a user. For example, the display device includes a backlight unit and a liquid crystal panel that generates an image by using light provided from the backlight unit. The backlight unit may include, for example, a backlight light source device disposed on a side surface of a backlight light guide plate. The liquid crystal panel may be disposed on the backlight light guide plate.

[0003] As an example, the display device may include an optical module for detecting external light. For example, the optical module may include at least one of a camera and an IR sensor, but is not limited thereto. As an example, the optical module may overlap with an area of the liquid crystal panel. For example, the liquid crystal panel may include an effective area that overlaps with the backlight light guide plate and a sensing area that overlaps with the optical module.

[0004] The description provided in the background section should not be assumed to be prior art merely because it is mentioned in or related to the background section. The background section may include information describing one or more aspects of the subject technology. Summary of the Invention

[0005] As an example, the sensing area may be disposed in the effective area, but is not limited thereto. However, since the sensing area of the liquid crystal panel does not emit light for implementing an image, the quality of the image provided to the user may deteriorate due to a brightness change between the effective area and the sensing area of the display device.

[0006] Accordingly, the present disclosure relates to a display device that substantially eliminates one or more problems caused by limitations and disadvantages of the related art.

[0007] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a display device capable of reducing or minimizing a brightness change between an effective area and a sensing area of a liquid crystal panel.

[0008] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a display device in which an optical module can detect external light through a sensing area of a liquid crystal panel without deteriorating the quality of an image.

[0009] Additional advantages, objects, and features of the present disclosure will be partially set forth in the description below, and will be partially apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art after studying the following, or may be learned from practice of the present disclosure. The objects and other advantages of the present disclosure may be realized and obtained by the structure particularly pointed out in the written description and claims and the drawings.

[0010] To achieve these objects and other advantages, and in accordance with the purposes of the present disclosure, as specifically implemented and widely described herein, a display device including a backlight unit is provided. The backlight unit includes a first light guide plate and a first light source device. A liquid crystal panel is disposed on an upper surface of the first light guide plate. The liquid crystal panel includes a sensing area. An optical module is disposed on a lower surface of the first light guide plate. The optical module includes a second light guide plate, a second light source device, and an optical device. An upper surface of the second light guide plate overlaps with the sensing area of the liquid crystal panel. The first light guide plate includes an area disposed between the upper surface of the second light guide plate and the liquid crystal panel. The second light source device and the optical device are disposed on different surfaces of the second light guide plate.

[0011] The second light source device and the optical device may be disposed outside the sensing area.

[0012] The second light source device may be disposed on two opposite side surfaces of the second light guide plate that are perpendicular to the upper surface.

[0013] The first light guide plate and the first light source device may be accommodated in a bottom cover. The bottom cover may include a cover hole that overlaps with the sensing area of the liquid crystal panel.

[0014] The optical device may be disposed on a first side surface of the second light guide plate that is perpendicular to the upper surface of the second light guide plate. The second light guide plate may include an inclined surface opposite to the first side surface.

[0015] A module reflector may be disposed on the inclined surface of the second light guide plate.

[0016] A module sheet may be disposed between the optical device and the second light guide plate. The module sheet may include a module adhesive layer, a module heat insulation layer, and a module filter layer. The module adhesive layer may be disposed close to the second light guide plate. The module heat insulation layer may be disposed close to the second light guide plate. The module filter layer may be disposed between the module adhesive layer and the module heat insulation layer.

[0017] The optical device may include a camera and a sensor. The module sheet may include a first hole corresponding to the camera and a second hole corresponding to the sensor. The first hole may penetrate the module adhesive layer, the module heat insulation layer, and the module filter layer. The second hole may penetrate the module adhesive layer and the module heat insulation layer. The module filter layer may include an area overlapping with the second hole.

[0018] A backlight sheet may be disposed between the first light guide plate and the liquid crystal panel. The backlight sheet may include a sheet hole that overlaps with the sensing area of the liquid crystal panel.

[0019] The second light source device, the second light guide plate, and the optical device may be surrounded by a light-blocking cover.

[0020] In another exemplary embodiment, a display device including a backlight unit is provided. The backlight unit includes a first light guide plate, a first light source device, and a bottom cover. The first light source device is disposed on a side surface of the first light guide plate. The bottom cover houses the first light source device and the first light guide plate. A liquid crystal panel is disposed on the first light guide plate. The liquid crystal panel includes a sensing area. The bottom cover includes a cover hole overlapping with the sensing area of the liquid crystal panel. An optical module is disposed on the bottom cover. The optical module includes a second light guide plate, a second light source device, and an optical device. The second light guide plate overlaps with the sensing area of the liquid crystal panel. The second light guide plate includes an upper surface facing the bottom cover. The second light source device is disposed on at least one of side surfaces of the second light guide plate perpendicular to the upper surface. The optical device spaced apart from the second light source device is disposed on a path of light passing through the first light guide plate and the second light guide plate.

[0021] A fixing band may be disposed between the bottom cover and the optical module of the backlight unit. The bottom cover and the optical module may be in contact with the fixing band. The fixing band may surround the cover hole.

[0022] The second light source device may include a module circuit board and a module light source. The module light source may be mounted at an end of the module circuit board. The second light guide plate may include an inclined surface overlapping with the module circuit board outside the module light source.

[0023] A reflector may be disposed between the bottom cover and the first light guide plate. The reflector may include a through hole overlapping with the sensing area of the liquid crystal panel.

[0024] A backlight sheet may be disposed between the first light guide plate and the liquid crystal panel. The backlight sheet may include a base substrate and optical elements. The optical elements may be disposed on the base substrate. The optical elements may be disposed outside an area of the base substrate overlapping with the sensing area of the liquid crystal panel.

[0025] The second light guide plate may include a lower surface opposite to the upper surface. The optical device may be disposed on the lower surface of the second light guide plate. A semi-transmissive surface inclined with respect to the upper surface and the lower surface may be disposed in the second light guide plate.

[0026] It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are both exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the claimed inventive concept. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this application. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure. In the drawings:

[0028] Figure 1 is a view schematically showing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 2 It is a view taken along lines I-I' and II-II' in Figure 1 ;

[0030] Figure 3 It is Figure 2 an enlarged view of area K1 in

[0031] Figure 4 It is a view taken along line III-III' in Figure 1 ;

[0032] Figure 5 a view showing a module light source device, a module light guide plate, and a module reflector in an optical module in a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 6 a view showing a module light guide plate, a module sheet, and an optical device in an optical module in a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0034] Figures 7 to 14 a view showing a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Hereinafter, through the following detailed description with reference to the drawings showing some embodiments of the present disclosure, the relevant details of the above objects, technical configurations, and operational effects of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be clearly understood. Here, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are provided so that the technical spirit of the present disclosure can be satisfactorily conveyed to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the present disclosure can be implemented in other forms and is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0036] In the following description, when it is determined that the detailed description of a well-known function or configuration related to this document unnecessarily obscures the gist of the inventive concept, its detailed description will be omitted. The progress of the described processing steps and / or operations is an example; however, the order of the steps and / or operations is not limited to the order set forth herein and can be changed as known in the art, except for steps and / or operations that must occur in a specific order. The names of the respective elements used in the following description may be selected only for the convenience of writing the specification and may therefore be different from the names used in actual products.

[0037] In addition, throughout the specification and the drawings, the same or extremely similar elements may be denoted by the same reference numerals, and for convenience, the lengths and thicknesses of layers and regions may be exaggerated. It should be understood that when a first element is referred to as being "above" a second element, although the first element may be disposed on the second element to be in contact with the second element, a third element may be interposed between the first element and the second element.

[0038] Terms such as "lower", "bottom", "upper", "top", etc. may be used herein to describe the relationship between elements as shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these terms are spatially relative and are based on the orientation depicted in the drawings.

[0039] The term "at least one" should be understood to include any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. For example, the meaning of "at least one of the first element, the second element, and the third element" includes the combination of all three listed elements, the combination of any two of the three elements, and each individual element (the first element, the second element, or the third element).

[0040] Here, terms such as "first" and "second", "A", "B", "(a)", and "(b)" may be used to distinguish any one element from another element. However, the first element and the second element may be arbitrarily named according to the convenience of those skilled in the art without departing from the technical spirit of the present disclosure.

[0041] The terms used in the specification of the present disclosure are only for describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. For example, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, an element described in the singular is intended to include a plurality of elements. In addition, in the specification of the present disclosure, it should also be understood that the terms "comprising" and "including" specify the presence of the recited features, values, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, values, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations.

[0042] In addition, unless "directly" is used, the terms "connected" and "coupled" may include that two components are "connected" or "coupled" through one or more other components located between the two components.

[0043] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical terms and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the exemplary embodiments belong. It should also be understood that terms (such as those defined in a common dictionary) should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0044] As can be fully understood by those skilled in the art, the features of the various embodiments of the present disclosure can be partially or wholly coupled or combined with each other, and can operate with each other in various ways and be technically driven. The exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can be executed independently of each other, or can be executed together in a mutually dependent relationship.

[0045] (Embodiment)

[0046] Figure 1 is a view schematically showing a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 is a view taken along Figure 1 the lines I-I' and II-II' in Figure 3 is Figure 2 an enlarged view of the K1 region in Figure 4 is a view taken along Figure 1 the line III-III' in

[0047] Referring to Figures 1 to 4 , a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include a liquid crystal panel 100, a backlight unit 200, and an optical module 300. The liquid crystal panel 100 may generate an image provided to a user. For example, the liquid crystal panel 100 may include an active area AA provided with a plurality of pixel regions and a border area BZ provided outside the active area AA. As an example, the border area BZ may extend from the active area AA. As an example, the border area BZ may be provided to partially or completely surround the active area AA. The liquid crystal panel 100 may include a liquid crystal layer overlapping with the pixel regions. For example, the liquid crystal layer of the liquid crystal panel 100 may include an IPS mode liquid crystal or a TN mode liquid crystal, but is not limited thereto. Various signals may be applied to each pixel region PA through signal wirings. For example, the liquid crystal provided in the region of the liquid crystal layer overlapping with each pixel region may be rotated by a vertical electric field or a horizontal electric field formed in the corresponding pixel region by the signal wirings, but is not limited thereto. Therefore, in a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, an image of various colors may be generated by light emitted from the active area AA of the liquid crystal panel 100.

[0048] The backlight unit 200 may provide light to the liquid crystal panel 100. For example, the backlight unit 200 may include a backlight light source device 210, a backlight light guide plate 220, a backlight reflector 230, and a backlight sheet 240. The embodiment is not limited thereto. As an example, one or more of the above components may be omitted, and / or, one or more additional components may also be included.

[0049] The backlight light source device 210 may provide light to the liquid crystal panel 100 through the backlight light guide plate 220. For example, the backlight light source device 210 may be provided on a side surface of the backlight light guide plate 220, but is not limited thereto. The liquid crystal panel 100 may be provided on an upper surface of the backlight light guide plate 220. The backlight light source device 210 may include a backlight circuit board 211 and a backlight light source mounted on the backlight circuit board 211. The backlight light source 212 may be a self-luminous device capable of generating and emitting light. For example, the backlight light source 212 may include an LED, but is not limited thereto.

[0050] The backlight reflector 230 may be disposed on the lower surface of the backlight light guide plate 220. The lower surface of the backlight light guide plate 220 may be opposite to the upper surface of the backlight light guide plate 220. For example, the backlight light guide plate 220 may be disposed between the backlight reflector 230 and the liquid crystal panel 100. The backlight reflector 230 may include a material capable of reflecting light. For example, the backlight reflector 230 may include metals such as aluminum (Al) and silver (Ag), but is not limited thereto. Accordingly, in the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the light emitted through the lower surface of the backlight light guide plate 220 may be reflected by the backlight reflector 230 toward the liquid crystal panel 100. Accordingly, in the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the amount of light provided to the liquid crystal panel 100 by the backlight unit 200 may be increased.

[0051] The backlight sheet 240 may be disposed between the backlight light guide plate 220 and the liquid crystal panel 100. The light provided to the liquid crystal panel 100 through the backlight light guide plate 220 may have a uniform brightness overall through the backlight sheet 240. For example, the backlight sheet 240 may have a laminated structure of a prism sheet 241 and a diffusion sheet 242.

[0052] As an example, the prism sheet 241 may include prism elements 241p disposed on a first base substrate 241s. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the prism element 241p may have a shape in which triangles are repeatedly arranged, but is not limited thereto. As an example, the cross-sectional shape of the prism element 241p may have various shapes such as a curved shape, an angular shape, a circular shape, etc. The first base substrate 241s may include a transparent material. For example, the first base substrate 241s may include plastic, glass, etc., but is not limited thereto. The prism element 241p may include a transparent material. For example, the prism element 241p may be formed of the same material as the first base substrate 241s, but is not limited thereto. As an example, the prism element 241p may be formed of a different material from the first base substrate 241s. The interface between the first base substrate 241s and the prism element 241p may not be recognized. As an example, the first base substrate 241s and the prism element 241p may be integrally formed or may be separately formed.

[0053] The diffusion sheet 242 may include diffusion particles 242p dispersed on a second base substrate 242s. The second base substrate 242s may include a transparent material. For example, the second base substrate 242s may include plastics, glass, etc., but is not limited thereto. The second base substrate 242s may include the same material as the first base substrate 241s, or may include a different material from the first base substrate 241s. The diffusion particles 242p may have various sizes. Accordingly, in a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the uniformity of light provided to the liquid crystal panel 100 through the backlight sheet 240 may be improved. As an example, the diffusion particles 242p may be fixed on the second base substrate 242s. As an example, the diffusion particles 242p may be fixed on the second base substrate 242s by a transparent adhesive such as a transparent resin, but is not limited thereto.

[0054] The backlight unit 200 may include a bottom cover 250 for accommodating a backlight light source device 210, a backlight light guide plate 220, a backlight reflector 230, and a backlight sheet 240. As an example, the bottom cover 250 may include an insulating material, but is not limited thereto. For example, the bottom cover 250 may include plastics, glass, ceramics, etc. The bottom cover 250 may include a bottom surface and side walls protruding from an edge of the bottom surface. The backlight reflector 230 may be disposed between the backlight light guide plate 220 and the bottom surface of the bottom cover 250. The backlight light source device 210, the backlight light guide plate 220, and the backlight sheet 240 may be disposed in a space formed by the side walls of the bottom cover 250. For example, the side walls of the bottom cover 250 may partially or completely surround at least one of the backlight light source device 210, the backlight light guide plate 220, and the backlight sheet 240.

[0055] The backlight unit 200 may include an intermediate frame 260 for supporting the liquid crystal panel 100. The intermediate frame 260 may be coupled to the bottom cover 250. For example, the intermediate frame 260 may include a coupling area extending between the bottom cover 250 and the backlight light guide plate 220. As an example, the backlight light source device 210 may be fixed to the coupling area of the intermediate frame 260, but is not limited thereto. For example, the backlight light source device 210 may be attached to the coupling area of the intermediate frame 260 by an adhesive element or a fixing member such as a bolt or a clip, but is not limited thereto. The intermediate frame 260 may include a placement area extending between the backlight sheet 240 and the liquid crystal panel 100. The placement area of the intermediate frame 260 may overlap with the edge of the backlight sheet 240. For example, the placement area of the intermediate frame 260 may overlap with a part or the whole of the border area BZ of the liquid crystal panel 100. The active area AA of the liquid crystal panel 100 may not overlap with the placement area of the intermediate frame 260. For example, the central area of the backlight sheet 240 may be exposed by the intermediate frame 260. As an example, the placement area of the intermediate frame 260 may be in direct contact with the backlight sheet 240. Thus, in the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the intermediate frame 260 may reduce or prevent the movement of the backlight sheet 240. The embodiment is not limited thereto. As an example, the placement area of the intermediate frame 260 may be spaced apart from the backlight sheet 240.

[0056] The optical module 300 may detect external light through the liquid crystal panel 100 and the backlight unit 200. For example, the optical module 300 may be disposed on the bottom cover 250 of the backlight unit 200. As an example, the optical module 300 may be in contact with or spaced apart from the bottom cover 250 of the backlight unit 200. The liquid crystal panel 100 may include a sensing area HA for sensing external light. As an example, the sensing area HA may be disposed within the active area AA. For example, the backlight reflector 230 may include a through hole 230h overlapping with the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal panel 100, the backlight sheet 240 may include a sheet hole 240h overlapping with the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal panel 100, and the bottom cover 250 may include a cover hole 250h overlapping with the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal panel 100. The first base substrate 241s and the second base substrate 242s of the backlight sheet 240 may not overlap with the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal panel 100. As an example, the optical module 300 may include a module light source device 310, a module light guide plate 320, a module reflector 330, a module sheet 340, and an optical device 350, but is not limited thereto. As an example, one or more of the above components may be omitted, and / or one or more additional components may also be included.

[0057] Figure 5It is a view showing a module light source device 310, a module light guide plate 320, and a module reflector 330 in an optical module 300 in a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6 It is a view showing a module light guide plate 320, a module sheet 340, and an optical device 350 in an optical module 300 in a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0058] Referring to Figure 2 and Figures 4 to 6 , the module light source device 310 may be disposed on opposite two side surfaces of the module light guide plate 320, and the module light guide plate 320 may overlap with the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal panel 100. The side surface of the module light guide plate 320 on which the module light source device 310 is disposed may be perpendicular to the upper surface of the module light guide plate 320 facing the backlight light guide plate 220. The module light guide plate 320 may include an inclined surface 320c that overlaps with the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal panel 100. For example, the module light source device 310 may be disposed on the side surface of the module light guide plate 320 that is perpendicular to the upper surface and the inclined surface 320c of the module light guide plate 320. Therefore, in the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the light emitted from the module light source device 310 may be provided to the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal panel 100 through the inclined surface 320c of the module light guide plate 320.

[0059] The module light source device 310 may include a module circuit board 311 and module light sources 312. Each of the module light sources 312 may be a self-luminous device capable of generating and emitting light. For example, each of the module light sources 312 may include an LED, an OLED, a micro LED, but is not limited thereto. The module light source 312 may be the same device as the backlight light source 212, but is not limited thereto. As an example, the module light source 312 may be a device different from the backlight light source 212. Each of the module light sources 312 may be mounted on an end portion of the module circuit board 311, but is not limited thereto. As an example, at least one of the module light sources 312 may be mounted on a portion of the module circuit board 311 other than the end portion, but is not limited thereto. For example, the module light sources 312 may be turned on / off simultaneously, independently, or separately. As an example, the module light sources 312 may be driven simultaneously with the backlight light source 212, but is not limited thereto. As an example, the module light sources 312 may be driven independently or separately from the backlight light source 212. For example, in a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the liquid crystal panel 100 may generate an image by using light emitted from the backlight light source device 210 and light emitted from the module light source device 310. That is, in a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, when the liquid crystal panel 100 generates an image, the module light source device 310 may provide light to the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal panel 100. Therefore, in a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, when the liquid crystal panel 100 generates an image, as an example, the light provided to the sensing area HA may have substantially the same brightness as the light provided to the active area AA. Therefore, in a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, deterioration of image quality due to a brightness change between the active area AA and the sensing area HA may be reduced or prevented. The embodiment is not limited thereto. As an example, when the liquid crystal panel 100 generates an image, the light provided to the sensing area HA may have a different brightness from the light provided to the active area AA.

[0060] The module reflector 330 may be disposed on the inclined surface 320c of the module light guide plate 320. The module reflector 330 may include a material capable of reflecting light. For example, the module reflector 330 may include metals such as aluminum (Al) and silver (Ag), but is not limited thereto. As an example, the module reflector 330 may include the same material as the backlight reflector 230, but is not limited thereto. As an example, the module reflector 330 may include a different material from the backlight reflector 230. Accordingly, in the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the light emitted through the inclined surface 320c of the module light guide plate 320 may be reflected by the module reflector 330 toward the inside of the module light guide plate 320. Accordingly, in the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the amount of light provided to the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal panel 100 through the module light guide plate 320 may be increased.

[0061] The module sheet 340 may be disposed on the side surface of the module light guide plate 320 opposite to the inclined surface 320c. The optical device 350 may be disposed on the module sheet 340. For example, in the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the external light applied to the module light guide plate 320 through the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal panel 100 and the backlight light guide plate 220 may be provided to the optical device 350 through the module sheet 340. The external light applied through the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal panel 100 may pass through the sheet hole 240h of the backlight sheet 240. Accordingly, in the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the external light provided to the optical device 350 is not refracted and / or scattered by the backlight sheet 240. That is, in the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the external light may be detected by the optical device 350 without being distorted by the backlight sheet 240. Accordingly, in the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the detection characteristics of the external light may be improved.

[0062] The module sheet 340 may be disposed between the module light guide plate 320 and the optical device 350. For example, the module sheet 340 may have a laminated structure of a module adhesive layer 341, a module filter layer 342, and a module heat insulation layer 343. The module adhesive layer 341 may be disposed close to the module light guide plate 320. The module adhesive layer 341 may be in direct contact with the module light guide plate 320. For example, the module sheet 340 may be attached to the module light guide plate 320. For example, the module sheet 340 may be attached to the module light guide plate 320 through the module adhesive layer 341. The module heat insulation layer 343 may be disposed close to the optical device 350. Accordingly, in the display device according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, damage or deformation of the module sheet 340 due to heat generated by the operation of the optical device 350 may be reduced or prevented. The module filter layer 342 may be disposed between the module adhesive layer 341 and the module heat insulation layer 343. As an example, the module filter layer 342 may reduce or prevent scattering of visible light in the light propagating through the module light guide plate 320 to the optical device 350. Here, visible light refers to light recognizable by the human eye. For example, light having a wavelength range of about 400 nm to 700 nm may not pass through the module filter layer 342. Accordingly, in the display device according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, distortion of the light provided to the optical device 350 due to diffuse reflection and / or regular reflection of visible light may be reduced or prevented. The embodiments are not limited thereto. As an example, the module filter layer 342 may reduce or prevent diffusion of light having a wavelength range other than the wavelength range of about 400 nm to 700 nm among the light propagating through the module light guide plate 320 toward the optical device 350. As an example, the module filter layer 342 may be omitted. As an example, the module heat insulation layer 343 may be omitted.

[0063] The optical device 350 may include a device capable of detecting external light. For example, the optical device 350 may include a camera 351 and / or an IR sensor 352. The module sheet 340 may include first holes 341a, 342a, and 343a corresponding to the camera 351 and second holes 341b and 343b corresponding to the IR sensor 352. The first holes 341a, 342a, and 343a of the module sheet 340 may penetrate the module adhesive layer 341, the module filter layer 342, and the module heat insulation layer 343. For example, the first holes 341a, 342a, and 343a of the module sheet 340 may be composed of a first adhesive hole 341a that penetrates the module adhesive layer 341, a filter hole 342a that penetrates the module filter layer 342, and a first module hole 343a that penetrates the module heat insulation layer 343. The second holes 341b and 343b of the module sheet 340 may penetrate the module adhesive layer 341 and the module heat insulation layer 343. The module filter layer 342 may include a filter region 342f that overlaps with the second holes 341b and 343b of the module sheet 340. For example, the second holes 341b and 343b of the module sheet 340 may be composed of a second adhesive hole 341b that penetrates the module adhesive layer 341 and a second module hole 343b that penetrates the module heat insulation layer 343. Accordingly, in the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, external light passing through the first holes 341a, 342a, and 343a of the module sheet 340 may be provided to the camera 351, and external light passing through the second holes 341b and 343b of the module sheet 340 may be provided to the IR sensor 352. That is, in the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, external light including visible light may be provided to the camera 351, and visible light of the external light propagating toward the IR sensor 352 may be blocked by the filter region 342f of the module filter layer 342. Accordingly, in the display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, deterioration of the detection characteristics of the IR sensor 352 due to visible light may be reduced or prevented.

[0064] The optical module 300 may be fixed to the backlight unit 200, but is not limited thereto. For example, a fixing band 400 may be disposed between the bottom cover 250 and the optical module 300. The fixing band 400 may be in direct contact with the bottom cover 250 and the optical module 300. For example, the optical module 300 may be attached to the bottom cover 250 through the fixing band 400. Accordingly, in a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, movement of the optical module 300 may be reduced or prevented. Accordingly, in a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, characteristics of the optical device 350 of the optical module 300 for detecting external light may be improved. The embodiment is not limited thereto. As an example, the optical module 300 may be fixed to other components of the liquid crystal panel 100 other than the backlight unit 200. As an example, the fixing band 400 may be disposed between the backlight light guide plate 220 and the optical module 300. As an example, the fixing band 400 may be in direct contact with the backlight light guide plate 220 and the optical module 300, but is not limited thereto.

[0065] Accordingly, a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include a liquid crystal panel 100 disposed on an upper surface of the backlight light guide plate 220 and an optical module 300 disposed on a lower surface of the backlight light guide plate 220, wherein the liquid crystal panel 100 may include a sensing area HA for detecting external light, and wherein the optical module 300 may include a module light guide plate 320 overlapping with the sensing area HA, a module light source device 310 disposed on a side surface of the module light guide plate 320 perpendicular to the inclined surface 320c, and an optical device 350 disposed opposite to the inclined surface 320c of the module light guide plate 320. Accordingly, in a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, when the liquid crystal panel 100 generates an image, light provided to the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal panel 100 by the module light source device 310 that is turned on / off simultaneously with the backlight light source device 210 may have the same brightness as light provided to the active area AA of the liquid crystal panel 100 by the backlight light source device 210. Also, in a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, when the liquid crystal panel 100 does not generate an image, external light applied through the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal panel 100, the backlight light guide plate 220, and the module light guide plate 320 may be detected by the optical device 350. Accordingly, in a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, external light may be detected without degrading image quality.

[0066] A display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is described such that each of the module light sources 312 may be the same as the backlight source 212. However, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the display device, the type of each of the module light sources 312 and the number of the module light sources 312 may be determined according to the brightness of the light provided to the active area AA of the liquid crystal panel 100 by the backlight source 212. In addition, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the display device, the type of each of the module light sources 312 and the number of the module light sources 312 may be determined according to the area ratio between the active area AA and the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal panel 100. That is, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, when the liquid crystal panel 100 generates an image, the type of each of the module light sources 312 and the number of the module light sources 312 may be adjusted such that the brightness of the light provided to the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal panel 100 may be substantially the same as the brightness of the light provided to the active area AA of the liquid crystal panel 100. Therefore, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the deterioration of the image quality due to the brightness change between the active area AA and the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal panel 100 may be effectively reduced or prevented. As an example, the type of each of the module light sources 312 may be different from the type of the backlight source 212. As an example, the number of the module light sources 312 may be more than two, for example, three, four, or eight. As an example, in addition to the side surface of the module light guide plate 320, the module light sources 312 may be provided on other parts of the module light guide plate 320.

[0067] A display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is described such that the optical device 350 may include a camera 351 and an IR sensor 352. However, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the optical device 350 may include various devices. For example, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the optical device 350 may include one of the camera 351 and the IR sensor 352. In addition, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the optical device 350 may include at least one of various sensors. For example, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the optical device 350 may include at least one of a motion sensor, an illuminance sensor, and an ultrasonic sensor. Therefore, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the degree of freedom in configuring the optical device 350 may be increased.

[0068] In a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the module heat insulation layer 343 may include a material capable of absorbing light. For example, the module heat insulation layer 343 may include a black dye such as carbon black. The module heat insulation layer 343 may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure. For example, the module heat insulation layer 343 may have a two-layer structure of a heat insulation layer and an absorption layer. Therefore, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, light propagating through an area of the module sheet 340 that does not overlap with the optical device 350 may be blocked by the module heat insulation layer 343. Therefore, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the characteristics of detecting external light may be improved. The embodiment is not limited thereto. As an example, the module heat insulation layer 343 may include a material that does not absorb light. As an example, the module heat insulation layer 343 may include a transparent material. As an example, the module heat insulation layer 343 may be omitted according to the design.

[0069] The display device according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure has been described as the optical device 350 may be disposed close to the central region of the backlight unit 200. However, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the optical device 350 may be disposed at various positions. For example, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the optical device 350 may be disposed on a side surface of the module light guide plate 320 facing the outside of the backlight unit 200, as Figure 7 shown. The inclined surface of the module light guide plate 320 may be disposed close to the central region of the backlight unit 200. Therefore, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the degree of freedom in configuring the position of the optical device 350 may be increased. The embodiment is not limited thereto. As an example, the optical device 350 may be disposed on a side surface of the module light guide plate 320 facing any other direction except the direction facing the central region and the outside of the backlight unit 200.

[0070] In a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, external light that has not passed through the liquid crystal panel 100 and the backlight unit 200 may be blocked from traveling in the direction of the module light guide plate 320. For example, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the optical module 300 may include a light-blocking cover 360 that partially or completely surrounds the module light source device 310, the module light guide plate 320, the module sheet 340, and the optical device 350, as Figure 8As shown. As an example, the light-blocking cover 360 may be attached to the bottom cover 250 by the fixing band 400, but is not limited thereto. As an example, the light-blocking cover 360 may be attached to the bottom cover 250 by other means than the fixing band 400. Accordingly, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, detection of external light that does not pass through the liquid crystal panel 100 and the backlight unit 200 by the optical device 350 may be reduced or prevented. That is, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, unintentionally detected external light may not be detected. Accordingly, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, characteristics of detecting external light through the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal panel 100 may be effectively improved.

[0071] A display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure has been described such that the prism element 241p may include the same material as the first base substrate 241s. However, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first base substrate 241s may include a different material from the prism element 241p. For example, the transmittance of the first base substrate 241s may be higher than the transmittance of the prism element 241p. Accordingly, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the degree of freedom in the configuration of the prism sheet 241 may be increased.

[0072] In a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one of the first base substrate 241s and the second base substrate 242s may include an area provided outside the corresponding optical element (e.g., the prism element 241p or the scattering particles 242p). For example, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first base substrate 241s and the second base substrate 242s may extend in the inner direction of the sheet hole 240h, as Figure 9 shown. At least one of the first base substrate 241s and the second base substrate 242s may include an area overlapping with the sensing area of the liquid crystal panel. The sheet hole 240h may be an area where the prism element 241p and the scattering particles 242p are not formed. As an example, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the process of forming a hole in the first base substrate 241s and the process of forming a hole in the second base substrate 242s may be omitted. Accordingly, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the efficiency of the process of forming the backlight sheet 240 may be increased.

[0073] In a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a prism element 241p may be formed on the entire surface of a first substrate 241s, a scattering particle 242p may be formed on the entire surface of a second substrate 242s, a portion of the prism element 241p overlapping with the sensing region of the liquid crystal panel may be covered by a first refractive index matching element 241m, and a portion of the scattering particle 242p overlapping with the sensing region of the liquid crystal panel may be covered by a second refractive index matching element 242m, as Figure 10 shown. The first refractive index matching element 241m may include a material that can at least partially cancel out the refraction caused by the prism element 241p. The second refractive index matching element 242m may include a material that can at least partially cancel out the refraction caused by the scattering particle 242p. Accordingly, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a sheet hole 240h through which external light passes without being refracted by the prism element 241p and the scattering particle 242p may be formed by the first refractive index matching element 241m and the second refractive index matching element 242m. As an example, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a process of removing the prism element 241p formed on a portion of the first substrate 241s overlapping with the sensing region of the liquid crystal panel and a process of removing the scattering particle 242p formed on a portion of the second substrate 242s overlapping with the sensing region of the liquid crystal panel may be omitted. Accordingly, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the process efficiency may be effectively improved.

[0074] A display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure has been described such that a module circuit board 311 may be disposed parallel to an upper surface of a module light guide plate 320 facing a backlight light guide plate 220, and a module light source 312 may be mounted on an end of the module circuit board 311. However, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the module light source 312 may be disposed near a central portion of the module light guide plate 320. For example, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a stepped portion 320d may be formed on an upper portion of a side surface of the module light guide plate 320 facing each module light source 312, as Figure 11 shown. The module circuit board 311 may extend along the stepped portion 320d of the module light guide plate 320. Accordingly, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a reduction or prevention of efficiency degradation depending on the position of the module light source 312 may be achieved. Also, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a brightness difference between an effective area AA and a sensing area HA due to efficiency degradation of the module light source 312 may be reduced or prevented.

[0075] In a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the module light guide plate 320 may have various shapes to move the position of the module light source 312. For example, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a portion of the module light guide plate 320 that overlaps with the module light source device 310 may be recessed to form a groove in the module light guide plate 320, and the module light source device 310 may be inserted into the groove of the module light guide plate 320. In addition, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a side surface of the module light guide plate 320 facing each module light source 312 may include an inclined area 320s, as Figure 12 shown. The inclined area 320s of the module light guide plate 320 may overlap with the module circuit board 311 outside the module light source 312. For example, the module circuit board 311 may be in direct contact with the inclined area 320s of the module light guide plate 320. Therefore, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, damage to the module circuit board 311 caused by the shape of the module light guide plate 320 may be reduced or prevented. As an example, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a reduction in efficiency depending on the position of the module light source 312 may be reduced or prevented without damaging the module circuit board 311. Therefore, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the brightness difference between the effective area AA and the sensing area HA may be reduced or prevented.

[0076] A display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure has been described as the module light source device 310 and the optical device 350 may be disposed outside the sensing area HA. However, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the optical device 350 may be disposed on the lower surface of the module light guide plate 320, as Figure 13As shown. The lower surface of the module light guide plate 320 may be opposite to the upper surface of the module light guide plate 320. A semi-transmissive surface 320sr inclined with respect to the upper and lower surfaces of the module light guide plate 320 may be provided in the module light guide plate 320. Thus, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, when the liquid crystal panel 100 generates an image, the light emitted from the module light source device 310 may be reflected by the semi-transmissive surface 320sr of the module light guide plate 320 toward the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal panel 100. And, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, when the liquid crystal panel 100 does not generate an image, the external light applied through the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal panel 100 and the backlight light guide plate 220 may be provided to the optical device 350 by passing through the semi-transmissive surface 320sr of the module light guide plate 320. That is, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the deterioration of the image quality due to the sensing area HA may be reduced or prevented, and the degree of freedom regarding the position of the optical device 350 may be effectively increased.

[0077] The display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure has been described such that the module light guide plate 320 may include an inclined surface 320c. However, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the module light guide plate 320 may have various shapes for providing the external light applied through the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal panel 100 and the backlight light guide plate 220 to the optical device 350. For example, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the shape of the module light guide plate 320 may be a plate-like shape having a specific curvature, as Figure 14 shown. For example, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, due to the refractive index difference on the curved surface of the module light guide plate 320, the external light applied through the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal panel 100 and the backlight light guide plate 220 may be reflected toward the optical device 350. As an example, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the module reflector may be omitted. Thus, in a display device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the degree of freedom regarding the shape of the module light guide plate 320 for providing the external light applied through the sensing area HA of the liquid crystal panel 100 and the backlight light guide plate 220 to the optical device 350 may be increased.

[0078] As a result, a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include a backlight unit disposed between an optical module and a liquid crystal panel, wherein the backlight unit may include a backlight light guide plate disposed between the optical module and the liquid crystal panel, wherein the optical module may include: a module light guide plate overlapping with a sensing area of the liquid crystal panel, a module light source device disposed on at least one side of the module light guide plate, and an optical device spaced apart from the module light source device, and wherein the optical device may be disposed on a path of external light passing through the backlight light guide plate and the module light guide plate. Accordingly, in the display device according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, light having the same brightness as the light provided to an effective area of the liquid crystal panel may be provided to the sensing area of the liquid crystal panel. That is, in the display device according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a brightness change between the effective area and the sensing area may be reduced or prevented. Accordingly, in the display device according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, external light may be detected without degrading the quality of an image provided to a user.

[0079] Cross-reference to related applications

[0080] This application claims priority and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0009407, filed on January 22, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes as if fully set forth herein.

Claims

1. A display device, the display device comprising: A backlight unit, the backlight unit comprising a first light guide plate and a first light source device; A liquid crystal panel, the liquid crystal panel being disposed on an upper surface of the first light guide plate, the liquid crystal panel comprising a sensing region; and An optical module, the optical module being disposed on a lower surface of the first light guide plate, the optical module comprising a second light guide plate, a second light source device, and an optical device, Wherein, an upper surface of the second light guide plate overlaps with the sensing region of the liquid crystal panel, Wherein, the first light guide plate comprises a region disposed between the upper surface of the second light guide plate and the liquid crystal panel.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The second light source device and the optical device are disposed outside the sensing region.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The second light source device is disposed on two opposite side surfaces of the second light guide plate that are perpendicular to the upper surface.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The backlight unit comprises a bottom cover that houses the first light guide plate and the first light source device, and the bottom cover comprises a cover hole that overlaps with the sensing region of the liquid crystal panel.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The optical device is disposed on a first side surface of the second light guide plate that is perpendicular to the upper surface of the second light guide plate, and Wherein, the second light guide plate comprises an inclined surface opposite to the first side surface.

6. The display device according to claim 5, wherein, The optical module further comprises a module reflector disposed on the inclined surface of the second light guide plate.

7. The display device according to claim 1, wherein The optical module comprises a module sheet disposed between the optical device and the second light guide plate, and Wherein, the module sheet comprises at least one hole corresponding to the optical device.

8. The display device according to claim 7, wherein, The module sheet comprises a module adhesive layer disposed close to the second light guide plate, and a module heat insulation layer disposed close to the optical device.

9. The display device according to claim 8, wherein, The module sheet further comprises a module filter layer disposed between the module adhesive layer and the module heat insulation layer.

10. The display device according to claim 9, wherein, The optical device comprises a camera and a sensor, and Wherein, the module sheet comprises a first hole corresponding to the camera and a second hole corresponding to the sensor, Wherein, the first hole penetrates through the module adhesive layer, the module heat insulation layer, and the module filter layer, Wherein, the second hole penetrates through the module adhesive layer and the module heat insulation layer, and Wherein, the module filter layer comprises a region overlapping with the second hole.

11. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The backlight unit comprises a backlight sheet disposed between the first light guide plate and the liquid crystal panel, and Wherein, the backlight sheet comprises a sheet hole overlapping with the sensing region of the liquid crystal panel.

12. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The optical module comprises a light-blocking cover surrounding the second light source device, the second light guide plate, and the optical device.

13. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The second light source device and the optical device are disposed on different surfaces of the second light guide plate.

14. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, When the liquid crystal panel generates an image, light provided by the second light source device to the sensing region has the same brightness as light provided by the first light source device to an effective region of the liquid crystal panel.

15. A display device, the display device comprising: A backlight unit, the backlight unit comprising a first light source device disposed on a side surface of a first light guide plate and a bottom cover that houses the first light source device and the first light guide plate; A liquid crystal panel, the liquid crystal panel being disposed on the first light guide plate of the backlight unit, the liquid crystal panel including a sensing area; and An optical module, the optical module including a second light guide plate having an upper surface facing the bottom cover, a second light source device disposed on at least one of the side surfaces of the second light guide plate perpendicular to the upper surface, and an optical device spaced apart from the second light source device, wherein the bottom cover includes a cover hole overlapping the sensing area of the liquid crystal panel, wherein the second light guide plate of the optical module overlaps the sensing area of the liquid crystal panel, and wherein the optical device is disposed on a path of light passing through the first light guide plate and the second light guide plate.

16. The display device according to claim 15, the display device further including a fixing band in contact with the bottom cover of the backlight unit and the optical module, the fixing band surrounding the cover hole.

17. The display device according to claim 15, wherein, The second light source device includes a module circuit board and a module light source mounted on the module circuit board, and wherein the second light guide plate includes an inclined surface overlapping the module circuit board outside the module light source.

18. The display device according to claim 15, wherein, The backlight unit includes a reflector disposed between the bottom cover and the first light guide plate, and wherein the reflector includes a through hole overlapping the sensing area of the liquid crystal panel.

19. The display device according to claim 15, wherein, The backlight unit includes a backlight sheet disposed between the first light guide plate and the liquid crystal panel, wherein the backlight sheet includes a base substrate and optical elements disposed on the base substrate, wherein the base substrate includes an area overlapping the sensing area of the liquid crystal panel, and wherein the optical elements are disposed outside the area of the base substrate overlapping the sensing area.

20. The display device according to claim 15, wherein, The optical device is disposed on a lower surface of the second light guide plate opposite to the upper surface of the second light guide plate, and wherein a semi-transmissive surface inclined with respect to the upper surface and the lower surface of the second light guide plate is disposed in the second light guide plate.

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