Display module and display device

Abstract

The invention provides a display module and a display device, and relates to the technical field of display, and the display module comprises a backlight module and a display panel located on the light emitting side of the backlight module; the backlight module comprises a backlight structure and a reflecting layer; the array substrate and the color film substrate are oppositely arranged, the liquid crystal layer is located between the array substrate and the color film substrate, the dimming unit is located on the side, facing the array substrate, of the color film substrate, the array substrate is located between the color film substrate and the backlight module, and the color film substrate comprises a plurality of pixel openings; the array substrate comprises a metal wire, and the metal wire is located on the side, away from the reflecting layer, of the backlight structure. The dimming unit is at least partially overlapped with the pixel opening. According to the display module, the reflecting layer, the metal wire and the dimming unit are arranged, so that at least part of light is reflected for multiple times in the display module, the light is effectively utilized, the utilization rate of the light is improved, the transmittance of the light is improved, the brightness of the display module is improved, and the display effect is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of display technology, and in particular to a display module and display device. Background Technology

[0002] With the continuous development of science and technology, more and more display products, such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops, and smart wearable devices, are widely used in people's daily lives and work, bringing great convenience and becoming indispensable tools for people today. However, some display products have low light utilization rates, resulting in low light transmittance and affecting their display performance.

[0003] Therefore, how to improve the above problems has become one of the urgent technical issues to be addressed at this stage. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this disclosure provides a display module and display device to enhance the brightness of display products and improve display performance.

[0005] In a first aspect, this disclosure provides a display module, including a backlight module and a display panel located on the light-emitting side of the backlight module; wherein the backlight module includes a backlight structure and a reflective layer; and the display panel includes:

[0006] An array substrate and a color filter substrate are disposed opposite to each other, and a liquid crystal layer is located between the array substrate and the color filter substrate. The array substrate is located between the color filter substrate and the backlight module. The color filter substrate includes a plurality of pixel openings. The array substrate includes metal traces located on the side of the backlight structure away from the reflective layer.

[0007] A dimming unit is located on the side of the color filter substrate facing the array substrate; along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the display panel, the dimming unit at least partially overlaps with the pixel opening.

[0008] Secondly, this disclosure provides a display device, including a display module.

[0009] The technical solution provided in this disclosure has the following advantages compared with the prior art:

[0010] This disclosure provides a display module and display device, including a backlight module and a display panel. The backlight module includes a backlight structure and a reflective layer. The display panel includes an array substrate, a color filter substrate, and a liquid crystal layer located between the array substrate and the color filter substrate. The array substrate includes metal traces. The display panel also includes a dimming unit located on the side of the color filter substrate facing the array substrate, and the dimming unit at least partially overlaps with the pixel opening. This disclosure provides a reflective layer, metal traces, and a dimming unit. Through the cooperation between the reflective layer, metal traces, and dimming unit, at least a portion of the light is reflected multiple times in the display module, reducing the absorption or blocking of light by opaque areas. This facilitates effective light utilization, improves light utilization efficiency, and thus improves light transmittance, thereby enhancing the brightness of the display module and improving its display effect. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure.

[0012] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure or the prior art, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, for those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0013] Figure 1 The figure shown is a planar schematic diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0014] Figure 2 As shown Figure 1 A planar schematic diagram of region Q in the middle;

[0015] Figure 3 As shown Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a membrane layer in the Q region of the middle region;

[0016] Figure 4 As shown Figure 1 Another planar schematic diagram of region Q in the middle;

[0017] Figure 5 As shown Figure 1 Another schematic diagram of the membrane layer in the Q region;

[0018] Figure 6 As shown Figure 1 Another planar schematic diagram of the central region Q;

[0019] Figure 7 As shown Figure 1 A schematic diagram of another type of film layer in the Q region;

[0020] Figure 8 As shown Figure 1 A schematic diagram of another type of membrane layer in the Q region;

[0021] Figure 9 As shown Figure 1 A schematic diagram of another type of membrane layer in the Q region;

[0022] Figure 10 As shown Figure 1 A schematic diagram of another type of membrane layer in the Q region;

[0023] Figure 11 The figure shown is a plan view of a display device provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0024] To better understand the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this disclosure, the solutions disclosed herein will be further described below. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described herein can be combined with each other.

[0025] Numerous specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a full understanding of this disclosure, but this disclosure may also be implemented in other ways different from those described herein; obviously, the embodiments in the specification are only some, and not all, of the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0026] The inventors discovered in their research that as the pixel density of display products increases, the pixel transmittance decreases significantly. Several methods exist to improve transmittance in related technologies. One method is to increase transmittance by reducing metal traces and device size; however, this requires a high-precision exposure machine, leading to excessive costs. Another method involves using negative liquid crystals. The pixel electrode on the array substrate side of the negative liquid crystal is designed as a simple, complete plane, while the common electrode on the color filter substrate side is designed as a single sheet of transparent conductive film, thereby reducing the area occupied by opaque electrodes and improving transmittance. However, this method may not meet the required liquid crystal response time. A third method is to reduce the thickness of the color resist layer, which leads to a decrease in color saturation and affects display quality. A fourth method, in high-temperature polysilicon display panels, utilizes the reflection and refraction of light under parallel light incidence conditions to reuse previously absorbed light, increasing the luminous flux of the display panel. However, this method has a limited application range.

[0027] In view of this, the present disclosure provides a display module and display device to improve the brightness of display products and enhance display performance.

[0028] Figure 1 The figure shown is a plan view of a display module provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 2As shown Figure 1 A planar schematic diagram of region Q in the middle. Figure 3 As shown Figure 1 Please refer to the schematic diagram of a membrane layer in region Q of the central region. Figures 1-3 This disclosure provides a display module 100, including a backlight module 01 and a display panel 02 located on the light-emitting side of the backlight module 01; wherein, the backlight module 01 includes a backlight structure 011 and a reflective layer 012. The display panel 02 includes: an array substrate 10 and a color filter substrate 20 disposed opposite to each other, and a liquid crystal layer 30 located between the array substrate 10 and the color filter substrate 20. The array substrate 10 is located between the color filter substrate 20 and the backlight module 01, and the color filter substrate 20 includes a plurality of pixel openings 21; the array substrate 10 includes metal traces 11, and the metal traces 11 are located on the side of the backlight structure 011 away from the reflective layer 012; the display panel 02 also includes a dimming unit 40 located on the side of the color filter substrate 20 facing the array substrate 10; along a direction F3 perpendicular to the plane where the display panel 02 is located, the dimming unit 40 and the pixel openings 21 at least partially overlap.

[0029] It should be noted that this disclosure Figure 1 The illustration uses a rectangular display module as an example only, but is not limited to this. For example, the display module 100 can also be any other feasible shape, such as a circle or a rounded rectangle. Figure 1 The central region Q can be any region in the display module 100. This disclosure uses the region Q containing 9 pixel openings 21 as an example for illustration, but is not limited thereto.

[0030] Specifically, this disclosure provides a display module 100, which includes a backlight module 01 and a display panel 02. The backlight module 01 provides backlight to the display panel 02. Light shines on the display panel 02 and undergoes twisting, filtering, and imaging within the panel to form the final display image. The display panel 02 includes an array substrate 10, a color filter substrate 20, and a liquid crystal layer 30. The array substrate 10 and the color filter substrate 20 are disposed opposite to each other, and the liquid crystal layer 30 is located between the array substrate 10 and the color filter substrate 20. The backlight module 01 provides backlight to the display panel 02. The array substrate 10 includes a common electrode 12, an insulating layer 13, a pixel electrode 15, and an alignment layer 14. The alignment layer 14 provides an initial alignment direction and angle for the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 30. The common electrode 12 and the pixel electrode 15 form an electric field that drives the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 30 to deflect under the drive of the array substrate 10, allowing at least some light to pass through the liquid crystal layer 30. The light is mixed in the color filter substrate 20 to form a display image. This disclosure describes an embodiment where the common electrode 12 and the pixel electrode 15 are located on the same side of the liquid crystal layer 30 but on different layers. When an electric field is applied between the common electrode 12 and the pixel electrode 15, the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 30 rotate horizontally (within the plane of the display module 100) under the influence of this electric field to adjust the light transmittance, thereby achieving different brightness levels by controlling the voltage between the common electrode 12 and the pixel electrode 15. This disclosure is only illustrative using the example of the common electrode 12 and the pixel electrode 15 being located on the same side of the liquid crystal layer 30 but on different layers, and is not limited thereto. In some other embodiments, the common electrode and the pixel electrode may be located on opposite sides of the liquid crystal layer 30, or the common electrode 12 and the pixel electrode 15 may be located on the same side of the liquid crystal layer 30 and on the same layer, etc. It should also be noted that the metal trace 11 may include data signal lines for providing data voltage to the pixel electrode 15, thereby forming an electric field between the common electrode 12 and the pixel electrode 15 to drive the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 30. In some other embodiments, the metal trace 11 may also include touch signal lines. In this case, the data signal lines and touch signal lines may be disposed in different film layers and arranged alternately. That is, the orthographic projections of the data signal lines on the plane where the display module 100 is located and the orthographic projections of the touch signal lines on the plane where the display module 100 is located do not overlap, so as to reduce or avoid coupling interference between the data signals and the touch signals.

[0031] The backlight module 01 includes a backlight structure 011 and a reflective layer 012; the array substrate 10 includes metal traces 11; and the display panel 02 also includes a dimming unit 40. Please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 3As shown, the backlight structure 011 is located above the reflective layer 012, the metal trace 11 is located above the backlight structure 011, and the dimming unit 40 is located above the metal trace 11. It should be noted that the backlight structure 011 can be either an edge-lit backlight structure or a direct-lit backlight structure. An edge-lit backlight structure places the light source at the edge of the backlight module and guides the light to the entire screen through a light guide plate. A direct-lit backlight structure places the light source below the display panel. This disclosure does not specifically limit the type of backlight structure 011; it can be selected according to actual conditions. The backlight structure 011 provides a light source for the display panel 02, with the light emanating towards the display panel 02. When light cannot pass through the display panel 02 and is reflected to the reflective layer 012, the reflective layer 012 can reflect the light again, thus improving light utilization and transmittance. When light shines on the metal trace 11, the metal trace 11 can reflect at least a portion of the light emitted by the backlight structure 011 to the reflective layer 012. The reflective layer 012 can then reflect the light again, further improving light utilization and thus increasing light transmittance. When the reflective layer 012 reflects the light reflected by the metal trace 11 to the dimming unit 40, the dimming unit 40 can transmit the light reflected by the reflective layer 012 to the pixel opening 21. This increases the amount of light transmitted to the pixel opening 21, thereby improving light transmittance.

[0032] For example, please refer to Figure 3 The light transmission path shown by solid arrow 1 involves light emitted from the backlight structure 011 being transmitted to the dimming unit 40, dimmed by the dimming unit 40, and then converged and transmitted to the pixel opening 21. As another example, the light transmission path shown by solid arrow 2 involves light emitted from the backlight structure 011 being transmitted to the metal trace 11, which can reflect some of the light to the reflective layer 012. The metal trace 11 can be at least one of the data signal line and touch signal line mentioned in this disclosure. After reflection by the reflective layer 012, the light is transmitted to the dimming unit 40, refracted within the dimming unit 40, and then transmitted to the pixel opening 21. As yet another example, the light transmission path shown by dashed arrow involves light emitted from the backlight structure 011 being transmitted to the dimming unit 40, undergoing total internal reflection within the dimming unit 40, being transmitted to the reflective layer 012, and then to the pixel opening 21. This disclosure only illustrates the above light transmission paths as examples and does not represent all light transmission paths within the display module 100. It is understood that the present disclosure provides a reflective layer 012, metal traces 11, and a dimming unit 40. Through the cooperation between the reflective layer 012, metal traces 11, and dimming unit 40, at least some of the light is reflected multiple times in the display module 100, thereby being effectively utilized and improving the light utilization rate. This is beneficial to improving the light transmittance, which in turn helps to improve the brightness of the display module 100 and improve the display effect of the display module 100.

[0033] Please continue to refer to this. Figures 1-3 In one optional embodiment of this disclosure, the dimming unit 40 includes a first dimming layer 41, a dimming part 43, and a second dimming layer 42. Along the direction F3 perpendicular to the plane where the display panel 02 is located, the dimming part 43 is located between the first dimming layer 41 and the second dimming layer 42. The refractive index of the dimming part 43 is greater than the refractive index of the first dimming layer 41 and greater than the refractive index of the second dimming layer 42.

[0034] Specifically, the dimming unit 40 is located on the side of the backlight structure 011 away from the reflective layer 012. After light is emitted from the backlight module 01, some of the light enters the dimming unit 40. The light first passes through the second dimming layer 42, then through the dimming section 43, which has a higher refractive index than the second dimming layer 42, and propagates inside the dimming section 43 before entering the first dimming layer 41, which has a lower refractive index than the dimming section 43. For some light rays incident at a small angle on the interface of the dimming section 43, they are refracted at the adjacent interface between the dimming section 43 and the first dimming layer 41 and then transmitted to the pixel opening 21. For some light rays incident at a larger angle (far from the screen normal), their incident angle is usually greater than the critical angle. These large-angle light rays undergo total internal reflection, then propagate inside the dimming section 43 and are reflected back into the display module, where they are reflected again for reuse, thereby improving the light transmittance.

[0035] It should be noted that the light emitted by the backlight module 01 is scattered in all directions, with some of the light rays striking the display panel 02 at large angles. These large-angle rays contribute little to the brightness when viewed from the front, as they are absorbed by structures such as the light-shielding layer, resulting in low light transmittance. This disclosure, by setting up a dimming unit 40, facilitates the smooth arrival of small-angle light at the pixel opening 21. Large-angle light is reflected again inside the dimming unit 43, allowing it to continue transmitting within the display module 100, thus having the opportunity to be emitted again at a smaller angle. This allows more light to be reused, improving light utilization and thus increasing light transmittance. Consequently, it helps to improve the brightness of the display module 100 and enhance its display effect.

[0036] Regarding the materials of the first dimming layer 41, dimming part 43, and second dimming layer 42 in the dimming unit 40, this disclosure provides an optional embodiment in which the first dimming layer 41 and the second dimming layer 42 can be made of an organic transparent resin with a refractive index of 1.4 to 1.5, and the dimming part 43 can be made of an organic transparent resin with a refractive index of 1.6 to 1.7. The refractive index of the dimming part 43 is greater than that of the first dimming part 431 and also greater than that of the second dimming part 432. Optionally, the difference between the refractive index of the dimming part 43 and the refractive index of the first dimming layer 41 is greater than or equal to 0.2, and the difference between the refractive index of the dimming part 43 and the refractive index of the second dimming layer 42 is greater than or equal to 0.2. Simultaneously, the first dimming layer 41, the dimming part 43, and the second dimming layer 42 in the dimming unit 40 can be selected from materials with high transmittance to improve the transmittance of light in the dimming unit 40. It should be noted that this disclosure is only illustrative of the above embodiments and is not limited thereto.

[0037] To further improve the dimming effect of the dimming unit 40 and increase light transmittance, this disclosure provides a method for setting the thickness of the first dimming layer 41, the dimming part 43, and the second dimming layer 42. Optionally, the thickness of the first dimming layer 41 is 3μm to 4μm (including the endpoints), the thickness of the dimming part 43 is 0 to 4μm, and the thickness of the second dimming layer 42 is 1μm to 2μm (including the endpoints). It should be noted that the thickness of the dimming part 43 being 0 to 4μm means that along the thickness direction of the display module 100, the thickness of the dimming part 43 is greater than 0 and less than or equal to 4μm. Specifically, this disclosure provides a dimming unit 40 with a low refractive index-high refractive index-low refractive index (first dimming layer 41-dimming part 43-second dimming layer 42) structure. The dimming part 43 is a high refractive index film. To enable macroscopic optical control of light through limited refraction, diffraction, or total internal reflection, the thickness of the dimming part 43 needs to be greater than the wavelength of light. Therefore, the thickness of the dimming part 43 needs to be at least greater than 0 (which can be set according to the wavelength of different colors of light). When the thickness of the dimming part 43 is greater than 4 μm, it may become tall and narrow, which is not conducive to manufacturing. Furthermore, when the first dimming layer 41 is fabricated on top of it, the height of the dimming part 43 can cause defects such as breakage and bubbles in the first dimming layer 41. This also hinders the thinning of the display module 100. Therefore, this disclosure sets the thickness of the dimming part 43 to 0–4 μm. This disclosure provides an optional embodiment in which the thickness of the first dimming layer 41 is 3.5 μm, the thickness of the dimming part 43 is 2 μm, and the thickness of the second dimming layer 42 is 1.5 μm; another optional embodiment in which the thickness of the first dimming layer 41 is 3 μm, the thickness of the dimming part 43 is 1.5 μm, and the thickness of the second dimming layer 42 is 1 μm; yet another optional embodiment in which the thickness of the first dimming layer 41 is 4 μm, the thickness of the dimming part 43 is 2.5 μm, and the thickness of the second dimming layer 42 is 2 μm. It should be noted that this disclosure is only illustrative of the above embodiments and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0038] Please continue to refer to this. Figures 1-3 In one optional embodiment of this disclosure, the surface of the dimming unit 43 facing the light-emitting surface of the display module 100 is arc-shaped, and the bending direction of the arc is towards the array substrate 10.

[0039] Specifically, this disclosure provides a dimming unit 40 in the display module 100. The surface of the dimming section 43 in the dimming unit 40 away from the backlight module 01 is an arc-shaped surface, and the bending direction of the arc is towards the array substrate 10. That is, the surface of the dimming section 43 in contact with the second dimming layer 42 is flat, and the surface in contact with the first dimming layer 41 protrudes towards the side closer to the first dimming layer 41. When light is emitted from the dimming section 43 (optically dense medium) to the first dimming layer 41 (optically sparse medium), it will be refracted on the arc-shaped surface. After refraction, the originally divergent light changes its emission direction and converges towards the center of the dimming section 43. This arrangement is beneficial for the light to converge to the pixel opening 21, improving the light transmittance, thereby improving the brightness of the display module 100 and improving the display effect of the display module 100.

[0040] Please continue to refer to this. Figures 1-3 In one optional embodiment of this disclosure, the display panel 02 includes a plurality of pixel aperture columns 211 arranged along a first direction F1, and each pixel aperture column 211 includes a plurality of pixel apertures 21 arranged along a second direction F2. The emitted light color of the pixel apertures 21 in the same pixel aperture column 211 is the same, and the first direction F1 and the second direction F2 intersect. The dimming unit 43 includes a first dimming unit 431, which extends along the second direction F2 and is arranged along the first direction F1. Along a direction F3 perpendicular to the light-emitting surface of the display panel 02, the first dimming unit 431 at least partially overlaps with the pixel apertures 21.

[0041] Specifically, this embodiment provides a configuration of a dimming unit 40, wherein the dimming unit 43 includes a first dimming unit 431. The first dimming unit 431 has an elongated structure, and its extension direction is consistent with the arrangement direction of the pixel openings 21 in the pixel opening column 211. The arrangement direction of the first dimming unit 431 is consistent with the arrangement direction of the pixel opening column 211, and the first dimming unit 431 and the pixel openings 21 at least partially overlap. This embodiment is equivalent to matching each pixel opening column 211 with a first dimming unit 431 for dimming. With this configuration, each pixel opening 21 can be matched with a corresponding first dimming unit 431. When light is transmitted to the first dimming unit 431, it is converged by the first dimming unit 431, which is beneficial for the light to converge to the corresponding pixel opening 21, thereby improving the light transmittance. For light rays incident at large angles, the first dimming unit 431 can reflect the light back to the reflective layer 012, allowing the light rays to re-emerge at a suitable angle and be fully and effectively utilized by the display panel 02, further improving light transmittance. Simultaneously, after entering the dimming unit 40, the first dimming unit 431 can confine the light within the first dimming unit 431 corresponding to the pixel opening 21 and guide the light upwards towards the corresponding pixel opening column 211, reducing light propagation in the first direction F1 and thus suppressing light crosstalk between pixel opening columns 211 of different colors. Furthermore, this disclosure also sets the emitted light color of the pixel openings 21 in the same pixel opening column 211 corresponding to the first dimming unit 431 to be the same. Different colors of light have different wavelengths, and the refractive index of different wavelengths of light in the same medium also differs. Therefore, the corresponding first dimming unit 431 can be differentiated according to the pixel openings 21 of different colors, further facilitating the convergence of light and its transmission to the pixel opening 21, thus improving light transmittance.

[0042] Please continue to refer to this. Figures 1-3 In one optional embodiment of this disclosure, the color filter substrate 20 includes a color resist 22, and along a direction F3 perpendicular to the plane where the display panel 02 is located, a first dimming layer 41 is located between the color resist 22 and the dimming section 43.

[0043] Specifically, the color filter substrate 20 also includes a color resist 22, which is located on the side of the dimming unit 43 away from the backlight module 01. The light emitted from the backlight module 01 is still white light before entering the color resist 22. At this time, the light is first guided by the dimming unit 40, which is more conducive to the light converging as much as possible at the pixel opening 21, improving the light transmittance. The dimmed light is then transmitted to the corresponding color resist 22 for coloring. With this setting, when the light is white light, dimming the light is beneficial to guide the light energy of all spectral components to the correct path as much as possible, thereby improving the utilization rate of light energy and reducing the power consumption of the display module 100.

[0044] Please continue to refer to this. Figures 1-3 In one optional embodiment of this disclosure, along a direction F3 perpendicular to the plane where the display panel 02 is located, a first dimming unit 431 covers multiple pixel openings 21 located in the same pixel opening column 211.

[0045] Specifically, in this embodiment, the first dimming unit 431 is a long strip-shaped dimming unit 43, and one first dimming unit 431 corresponds to one pixel aperture column 211. Pixels in the same pixel aperture column 211 can all receive the same optical processing, which is beneficial to improving the brightness uniformity of the display module 100 in the second direction F2. At the same time, one first dimming unit 431 covers multiple pixel apertures 21, and most of the light can be emitted after being adjusted by the first dimming unit 431, which is further beneficial to the light converging in the pixel apertures 21, improving the light transmittance, and thus improving the brightness of the display module 100 and improving the display effect.

[0046] Optionally, along the first direction F1, the size of the color resist 22 is the same as the size of its corresponding first dimming part 431. With this configuration, at least some light (small-angle light) can be converged to the pixel opening 21, which further facilitates the transmission of light to the pixel opening 21. At least some light (large-angle light) can be reused inside the display module 100, thereby increasing the light transmittance, increasing the brightness of the display module 100, and improving the display effect of the display module 100.

[0047] It should be noted that in the relevant technology, a considerable portion of the light emitted by the backlight structure 011 will be directed towards the opaque area between the pixel openings 21. This light will be blocked or absorbed, resulting in ineffective energy loss, which is a major reason for limiting the brightness of the display module 100. Figure 4 As shown Figure 1 Another planar schematic diagram of region Q in the middle region. Figure 5 As shown Figure 1 Please refer to another schematic diagram of the film layer in region Q. Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 In order to improve the brightness of the display module 100, this disclosure provides an optional embodiment in which the first dimming unit 431 is located at least between two adjacent pixel opening columns 211, along the direction F3 perpendicular to the plane where the display panel 02 is located, and the first dimming unit 431 and the pixel opening 21 do not overlap at least partially.

[0048] Specifically, in this embodiment, the first dimming unit 431 is positioned between two adjacent pixel aperture columns 211 to capture light that would otherwise be directed towards the opaque area between the adjacent pixel aperture columns 211. Light entering the first dimming unit 431 undergoes total internal reflection or surface refraction, altering its propagation direction. This arrangement allows previously wasted light energy to be reused, thereby improving light utilization and transmittance. Simultaneously, the first dimming unit 431 and the pixel apertures 21 do not overlap at least partially, reducing the impact of the first dimming unit 431 on light that could otherwise be directly transmitted to the pixel apertures 21, further improving light efficiency. In this embodiment, the first dimming unit 431 utilizes the area between the pixel aperture columns 211, reusing previously wasted light energy, improving light utilization while reducing the impact on aperture ratio, thus further enhancing the brightness of the display module 100 and improving the display effect.

[0049] Figure 6 As shown Figure 1 Please refer to another planar schematic diagram of the central region Q. Figure 1 as well as Figures 4-6 In one optional embodiment of this disclosure, the display panel 02 includes a plurality of pixel opening rows 212 arranged along a second direction F2, and the pixel opening rows 212 include a plurality of pixel openings 21 arranged along a first direction F1. The dimming unit 43 includes a second dimming unit 432, which extends along the first direction F1 and is arranged along the second direction F2. The second dimming unit 432 is located at least between two adjacent pixel opening rows 212. Along a direction F3 perpendicular to the plane of the display panel 02, the second dimming unit 432 and the pixel openings 21 do not overlap at least partially.

[0050] Specifically, the pixel openings 21 are arranged in a matrix, including multiple pixel opening columns 211 and multiple pixel opening rows 212. There are opaque areas between the pixel opening columns 211 that block or absorb light, and there are also opaque areas between the pixel opening rows 212 that block or absorb light. For the opaque areas between the pixel opening columns 211, this disclosure provides a first dimming unit 431 to improve light utilization. For the opaque areas between the pixel opening rows 212, this embodiment provides a second dimming unit 432. Light entering the second dimming unit 432 undergoes total internal reflection or surface refraction, thus changing its propagation direction. This arrangement allows light energy that would otherwise be wasted to be reused, thereby improving light utilization and ultimately increasing light transmittance. This embodiment, by providing the first dimming unit 431 and the second dimming unit 432, reuses light from the opaque areas between the pixel openings 21, which helps to improve the brightness of the display module 100 and enhance the display effect. Meanwhile, the first dimming unit 431 and the second dimming unit 432 do not overlap with at least part of the pixel opening 21, which also helps to reduce the impact of the dimming unit 43 on the original brightness of the pixel opening 21 area.

[0051] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 1 as well as Figures 4-6 In one optional embodiment of this disclosure, the color filter substrate 20 includes a plurality of first light-shielding portions 231 arranged along a third direction. Along the thickness direction F3 of the display module 100, the first light-shielding portions 231 overlap with the dimming portions 43, and the third direction is parallel to the plane where the display panel 02 is located. The color filter 22 is located at least between adjacent first light-shielding portions 231. Along the thickness direction F3 of the display module 100, the center of the first light-shielding portion 231 overlaps with the center of its corresponding dimming portion 43.

[0052] It should be noted that the third direction can be the same direction as the first direction F1 (e.g., Figure 4 (as shown), or it can be the same direction as the second direction F2 (as shown). Figure 6 As shown), the first light-shielding portion 231 is arranged along a third direction, meaning that the first light-shielding portion 231 is a light-shielding portion located between adjacent pixel opening columns 211, or it can be a light-shielding portion located between adjacent pixel opening rows 212. Figure 4 As shown, the first light-shielding portion 231 is arranged along the first direction F1 and extends along the second direction F2, located between adjacent pixel opening columns 211; Figure 6 As shown, the first light-shielding part 231 is arranged along the second direction F2 and extends along the first direction F1, located between adjacent pixel opening rows 212.

[0053] In this embodiment, along the thickness direction F3 of the display panel 02, the center of the first light-shielding part 231 overlaps with the center of its corresponding dimming part 43. That is, the center of the orthographic projection of the first light-shielding part 231 onto the plane where the display module 100 is located coincides with the center of the orthographic projection of the dimming part 43 onto the plane where the display module 100 is located. With this arrangement, the dimming effect of the dimming part 43 is consistent for both the pixel openings 21 on its sides, and the dimming effect is consistent for different pixel openings 21. This helps to balance the transmittance between different pixel openings 21, thereby improving the brightness uniformity of the display module 100 and enhancing the display effect.

[0054] Figure 7 As shown Figure 1 Please refer to another schematic diagram of the film layer in region Q of the middle region. Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 7 In one optional embodiment of this disclosure, the angle between the side surface of the backlight module 01 near the array substrate 10 and the side surface of the array substrate 10 near the backlight module 01 is α, where α ≠ 0°.

[0055] Specifically, in some application scenarios, the backlight module 01 and the display panel 02 are not parallel but at a certain angle. For example, in a head-up display (HUD) scenario, the user views a virtual image formed by reflection from the windshield. The light emitted by the display module 100 (called the PGU - Picture Generation Unit) needs to undergo a series of complex reflections and amplifications before finally being projected into the driver's line of sight. In this application scenario, the angle α between the backlight module 01 and the array substrate 10 in the display module 100 is not equal to 0. Optionally, the angle between the backlight module 01 and the array substrate 10 is 20°≤α≤40°, and the backlight module 01 illuminates at an angle, thereby avoiding light waste in the backlight structure 011 due to angle mismatch, improving the brightness of the final virtual image, and reducing power consumption. It should be noted that this disclosure is only based on the example of 20°≤α≤40° and is not limited thereto. This embodiment is intended to illustrate that the backlight module 01 and the display panel 02 are not parallel, but have a certain angle between them.

[0056] In the case where the included angle α between the backlight module 01 and the array substrate 10 in the display module 100 is not equal to 0, this disclosure provides an optional embodiment in which the color filter substrate 20 includes a plurality of first light-shielding portions 231 arranged along a first direction F1, the first light-shielding portions 231 overlapping with the dimming portions 43, and the first direction F1 being parallel to the plane where the display panel 02 is located; the color filter 22 is located at least between adjacent first light-shielding portions 231; along the thickness direction F3 of the display module 100, the center of the first light-shielding portion 231 does not overlap with the center of its corresponding dimming portion 43.

[0057] Specifically, when the angle α formed between the backlight module 01 and the array substrate 10 in the display module 100 is not equal to 0, the distance between the center of the orthographic projection of the first light-shielding part 231 onto the plane where the display module 100 is located and the center of the orthographic projection of the dimming part 43 onto the plane where the display module 100 is located is s, where s is not equal to 0. Since there is an angle between the backlight module 01 and the display panel 02, the light that could originally illuminate the dimming part 43 is shifted. Therefore, the position of the dimming part 43 must also be adjusted accordingly so that more light can be adjusted through the dimming part 43 and smoothly transmitted to the corresponding pixel opening 21, or reflected and utilized again in the display module 100, thereby further improving the utilization rate of light and increasing the brightness of the display module 100.

[0058] Optionally, the larger the angle α formed between the side surface of the backlight module 01 near the array substrate 10 and the side surface of the array substrate 10 near the backlight module 01, the larger the distance s between the center of the orthographic projection of the first light-shielding part 231 on the plane where the display module 100 is located and the center of the orthographic projection of the dimming part 43 on the plane where the display module 100 is located. For example, when the backlight module 01 is close to the side surface of the array substrate 10, and the angle α formed by the backlight module 01 and the side surface of the array substrate 10 close to the backlight module 01 is a1, the distance s between the center of the orthographic projection of the first light-shielding part 231 on the plane where the display module 100 is located and the center of the orthographic projection of the dimming part 43 on the plane where the display module 100 is located is s1; when the backlight module 01 is close to the side surface of the array substrate 10, and the angle α formed by the backlight module 01 and the side surface of the array substrate 10 close to the backlight module 01 is a2, the distance s between the center of the orthographic projection of the first light-shielding part 231 on the plane where the display module 100 is located and the center of the orthographic projection of the dimming part 43 on the plane where the display module 100 is located is s2; a1>a2, s1>s2. This configuration allows more light to be utilized by the dimming unit 43, enabling it to be smoothly transmitted to the corresponding pixel opening 21, or reflected and utilized again in the display module 100, thereby further improving the utilization rate of light and increasing the brightness of the display module 100.

[0059] Figure 8 As shown Figure 1Please refer to the schematic diagram of another type of film layer in the Q region. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 8 In one optional embodiment of this disclosure, the color filter substrate 20 includes a color resist 22. Along a direction F3 perpendicular to the plane where the display panel 02 is located, the color resist 22 is multiplexed as a first dimming layer 41, and the dimming part 43 and the second dimming layer 42 are located on the side of the color resist 22 facing the liquid crystal layer 30.

[0060] In this embodiment, a method for configuring the dimming unit 40 is provided. The color filter 22 in the color filter substrate 20 serves as the first dimming layer 41 in the dimming unit 40. The refractive index of the color filter 22 is close to that of the second dimming layer 42, eliminating the need to add a new first dimming layer 41 to the display panel 02. This saves on the manufacturing process of the first dimming layer 41, improves production efficiency, and reduces production costs. Simultaneously, by utilizing the color filter 22, the dimming section 43, and the second dimming layer 42 to form the dimming unit 40, at least some light is reused, increasing light utilization and thus improving light transmittance. This, in turn, improves the brightness of the display module 100 and enhances its display effect. Furthermore, by avoiding the addition of a new first dimming layer 41, the thickness of the entire display module 100 can be further reduced, making it easier to achieve a thinner and lighter display module 100.

[0061] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 8 In one optional embodiment of this disclosure, along a direction F3 perpendicular to the plane where the display panel 02 is located, a first dimming unit 431 covers multiple pixel openings 21 located in the same pixel opening column 211.

[0062] Specifically, in this embodiment, the color resist 22 is reused as the first dimming layer 41. The color resist 22 is in direct contact with the first dimming unit 431 and covers the first dimming unit 431. If the shape of the color resist 22 is irregular, it will cause a large difference between the actual light output and the theoretical light output, or even prevent normal light output. Therefore, in this embodiment, one first dimming unit 431 covers multiple pixel openings 21 located in the same pixel opening column 211. In this way, when the color resist 22 covers the first dimming unit 431, the structure formed is more regular, which is conducive to each pixel opening 21 emitting light of the corresponding color, reducing light crosstalk, and thus improving the display effect of the display module 100.

[0063] Optionally, along the first direction F1, the size of the color resist 22 is the same as the size of its corresponding first dimming part 431. This arrangement is beneficial for forming a color resist 22 with a regular shape, which further facilitates the transmission of light to the pixel opening 21, improves the light transmittance, and thus improves the brightness and display effect of the display module 100.

[0064] Figure 9 As shown Figure 1 Please refer to the schematic diagram of another type of film layer in the Q region. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 9 In one optional embodiment of this disclosure, the color filter substrate 20 includes a color filter 22, which overlaps with the dimming section 43. The color filter 22 includes a first color filter 221 and a second color filter 222. The first color and the second color are different. The curvature of the dimming section 43 corresponding to the first color filter 221 is different from the curvature of the dimming section 43 corresponding to the second color filter 222.

[0065] Specifically, the color filter substrate 20 includes color resists 22 of different colors, specifically a first color color resist 221 and a second color color resist 222. The curvature of the surface of the dimming unit 43 away from the backlight structure 011 is differentiated according to the color of the color resist 22. Since the first color and the second color are different, the wavelengths of the first color light and the second color light are different. For example, the light emitted after passing through the first color color resist 221 is the first color light, and the light emitted after passing through the second color color resist 222 is the second color light. The wavelength of the first color light is greater than the wavelength of the second color light. Wavelength is inversely proportional to refractive index; the longer the wavelength, the lower the refractive index, and the shorter the wavelength, the higher the refractive index. Since the wavelength of the first color light is greater than the wavelength of the second color light, the refractive index of the first color light is less than that of the second color light. Because the refractive index of the first color light is low, the light deflection angle is small when the light passes through the dimming unit 43. Therefore, the curvature of the corresponding dimming unit 43 can be set to be larger (a more curved arc surface) to enhance its focusing ability. Because the second color light has a high refractive index, the light is deflected at a larger angle when it passes through the dimming unit 43. Therefore, the curvature of the dimming unit 43 can be set to be smaller (a flatter arc surface) to reduce its focusing ability. By setting the curvature of the dimming unit 43 corresponding to different color color resists 22, it is beneficial to balance the utilization of light energy of different colors.

[0066] Figure 10 As shown Figure 1 Please refer to the schematic diagram of another type of film layer in the Q region. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 10 In one optional embodiment of this disclosure, the reflective layer 012 includes a substrate 0121 and a metal thin film 0122, with the metal thin film 0122 located on the side of the substrate 0121 close to the backlight structure 011.

[0067] It should be noted that in the display module 100, some light is reflected to the reflective layer 012. When the light undergoes specular reflection at the reflective layer 012, it is beneficial for the reflected light to be effectively utilized. In this embodiment, a metal thin film 0122 is provided on the side of the reflective layer 012 near the backlight structure 011. When light is reflected to the reflective layer 012, the light can undergo specular reflection on the surface of the metal thin film 0122, thereby facilitating the effective utilization of light, improving the brightness of the display module 100, and thus improving the brightness and display effect of the display module 100. Optionally, the material of the metal thin film 0122 can be silver or aluminum. This disclosure is only used as an example for illustration and is not limited thereto.

[0068] Based on the same inventive concept, this disclosure provides a display device. Figure 11 The diagram shown is a plan view of a display device provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Please refer to it. Figure 11 The display device 200 includes a display module 100, which is any of the display modules 100 provided in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0069] It should be noted that the embodiments of the display device 200 provided in this disclosure can refer to the embodiments of the display module 100 described above, and will not be repeated here. The display device 200 provided in this disclosure can be any product and component with display function, such as a mobile phone, tablet computer, television, touch screen, laptop computer, navigator, head-up display, etc.

[0070] As can be seen from the above embodiments, the display module and display device provided by the present invention achieve at least the following beneficial effects:

[0071] This disclosure provides a display module and display device, including a backlight module and a display panel. The backlight module includes a backlight structure and a reflective layer. The display panel includes an array substrate, a color filter substrate, and a liquid crystal layer located between the array substrate and the color filter substrate. The array substrate includes metal traces. The display panel also includes a dimming unit located on the side of the color filter substrate facing the array substrate, and the dimming unit at least partially overlaps with the pixel opening. This disclosure provides a reflective layer, metal traces, and a dimming unit. Through the cooperation between the reflective layer, metal traces, and dimming unit, at least a portion of the light is reflected multiple times in the display module, reducing the absorption or blocking of light by opaque areas. This facilitates effective light utilization, improves light utilization efficiency, and thus improves light transmittance, thereby enhancing the brightness of the display module and improving its display effect.

[0072] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0073] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this disclosure, enabling those skilled in the art to understand or implement it. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure is not to be limited to the embodiments described herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A display module, characterized in that, The system includes a backlight module and a display panel located on the light-emitting side of the backlight module; wherein the backlight module includes a backlight structure and a reflective layer; and the display panel includes: An array substrate and a color filter substrate are disposed opposite to each other, and a liquid crystal layer is located between the array substrate and the color filter substrate. The array substrate is located between the color filter substrate and the backlight module. The color filter substrate includes a plurality of pixel openings. The array substrate includes metal traces located on the side of the backlight structure away from the reflective layer. A dimming unit is located on the side of the color filter substrate facing the array substrate; along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the display panel, the dimming unit at least partially overlaps with the pixel opening.

2. The display module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The dimming unit includes a first dimming layer, a dimming part, and a second dimming layer. Along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the display panel, the dimming part is located between the first dimming layer and the second dimming layer. The refractive index of the dimming part is greater than the refractive index of the first dimming layer and greater than the refractive index of the second dimming layer.

3. The display module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The surface of the dimming section facing the light-emitting surface of the display module is arc-shaped, and the bending direction of the arc is towards the array substrate.

4. The display module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The display panel includes a plurality of pixel aperture columns arranged along a first direction, and the pixel aperture columns include a plurality of pixel apertures arranged along a second direction. The pixel apertures in the same pixel aperture column emit the same light color, and the first direction and the second direction intersect. The dimming unit includes a first dimming unit, which extends along the second direction and is arranged along the first direction. In a direction perpendicular to the light-emitting surface of the display panel, the first dimming unit at least partially overlaps with the pixel opening.

5. The display module according to claim 4, characterized in that, The color filter substrate includes a color resist, and the first dimming layer is located between the color resist and the dimming section along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the display panel.

6. The display module according to claim 5, characterized in that, Along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the display panel, one of the first dimming units covers a plurality of the pixel openings located in the same column of pixel openings.

7. The display module according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first dimming unit is located at least between two adjacent pixel aperture columns, and along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the display panel, the first dimming unit and the pixel aperture do not overlap at least partially.

8. The display module according to claim 7, characterized in that, The display panel includes a plurality of pixel opening rows arranged along the second direction, and the pixel opening rows include a plurality of pixel openings arranged along the first direction; The dimming unit includes a second dimming unit, which extends along the first direction and is arranged along the second direction. The second dimming unit is located at least between two adjacent pixel opening rows. Along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the display panel, the second dimming unit does not overlap with the pixel opening at least partially.

9. The display module according to claim 7, characterized in that, The color filter substrate includes a plurality of first light-shielding portions arranged along a third direction. Along the thickness direction of the display module, the first light-shielding portions overlap with the dimming portions. The third direction is parallel to the plane where the display panel is located. The color resist is located at least between adjacent first light-shielding portions. Along the thickness direction of the display module, the center of the first light-shielding part overlaps with the center of its corresponding dimming part.

10. The display module according to claim 7, characterized in that, The angle between the side surface of the backlight module near the array substrate and the side surface of the array substrate near the backlight module is α, where α ≠ 0°.

11. The display module according to claim 10, characterized in that, The color filter substrate includes a plurality of first light-shielding portions arranged along a first direction, the first light-shielding portions overlapping the dimming portions, the first direction being parallel to the plane of the display panel; the color resist is located at least between adjacent first light-shielding portions; Along the thickness direction of the display module, the center of the first light-shielding part does not overlap with the center of the corresponding dimming part.

12. The display module according to claim 4, characterized in that, The color filter substrate includes a color resist along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the display panel. The color resist is multiplexed as the first dimming layer, and the dimming part and the second dimming layer are located on the side of the color resist facing the liquid crystal layer.

13. The display module according to claim 12, characterized in that, Along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the display panel, one of the first dimming units covers a plurality of the pixel openings located in the same column of pixel openings.

14. The display module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The color filter substrate includes a color resist, which overlaps with the dimming section. The color resist includes a first color resist and a second color resist. The first color and the second color are different. The curvature of the dimming section corresponding to the first color resist is different from the curvature of the dimming section corresponding to the second color resist.

15. The display module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The reflective layer includes a substrate and a metal thin film, with the metal thin film located on the side of the substrate closer to the backlight structure.

16. A display device, characterized in that, Includes the display module described in any one of claims 1 to 15.

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