Method and apparatus for manufacturing display apparatus

Abstract

A display device includes a cover substrate including a first cover surface and an opposing second cover surface. And applying a first anti-reflection coating on the surface of the first cover plate. The light guide plate includes a first plate surface and an opposing second plate surface. The light guide plate includes a plurality of light extractors positioned at the second plate surface. A second anti-reflective coating is applied to the second plate surface and at least a portion of the plurality of light extractors. The display device comprises a third anti-reflection coating, and the third anti-reflection coating and the second anti-reflection coating are spaced by a certain distance, so that a gap exists between the second anti-reflection coating and the third anti-reflection coating. A method of manufacturing a display device is provided.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 581742, filed September 11, 2023, pursuant to 35 USC §119, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to apparatus and methods for manufacturing display devices, and more specifically to methods for manufacturing display devices comprising one or more anti-reflective coatings. Background Technology

[0004] Glass panels can be used in display applications such as liquid crystal displays (LCDs), electrophoretic displays (EPDs), organic light-emitting diode displays (OLEDs), and plasma display panels (PDPs). Display devices are well-known in display applications. However, display devices may have undesirable levels of internal light reflection. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The following is a brief overview of this disclosure to provide a basic understanding of some of the aspects described in the detailed description.

[0006] In various aspects, the display device may include a cover plate substrate comprising a first cover surface and an opposing second cover surface. The display device may include a first antireflective coating applied to the first cover surface. The first antireflective coating has a total reflectance in the visible spectrum ranging from about 380 nm to about 750 nm, which may be in the range of about 1% to about 4%. The display device may include a light guide plate comprising a first plate surface and an opposing second plate surface. The first plate surface may face the second cover surface. The light guide plate may include a plurality of light extractors positioned on the second plate surface. The display device may include a second antireflective coating applied to the second plate surface and at least a portion of the plurality of light extractors. The second antireflective coating has a total reflectance in the visible spectrum that may be in the range of about 1% to about 4%. The display device may include a third antireflective coating spaced apart from the second antireflective coating such that a gap exists between the second and third antireflective coatings. The third antireflective coating has a total reflectance in the visible spectrum that may be in the range of about 1% to about 4%.

[0007] In various aspects, the display device may include a polarizer and a color filter adjacent to the polarizer. A liquid crystal layer may be adjacent to the color filter. A reflector may be adjacent to the liquid crystal layer. A thin-film transistor substrate may be adjacent to the reflector.

[0008] In various respects, the third anti-reflective coating can be applied to the polarizer.

[0009] In all respects, the total reflectance of the first antireflective coating in the visible spectrum is in the range of about 1% to about 3%. The total reflectance of the second antireflective coating in the visible spectrum is in the range of about 1% to about 3%. The total reflectance of the third antireflective coating in the visible spectrum is in the range of about 1% to about 3%.

[0010] In various respects, the display device may include an optically transparent adhesive that is attached to the surface of the second cover plate and the surface of the first plate, such that the cover plate substrate is attached to the light guide plate.

[0011] In various respects, a fourth anti-reflective coating can be applied to the surface of the second cover plate.

[0012] In all respects, the total reflectance of the fourth antireflective coating in the visible spectrum can be less than about 2%.

[0013] In all respects, a fifth anti-reflective coating can be applied to the surface of the first plate.

[0014] In all respects, the total reflectivity of the fifth antireflective coating in the visible spectrum can be less than about 2%.

[0015] In various aspects, the display device may include a cover plate substrate comprising a first cover surface and an opposing second cover surface. The display device may include a first antireflective coating applied to the first cover surface. The first antireflective coating has a total reflectance in the visible spectrum ranging from about 380 nm to about 750 nm, which may be in the range of about 1% to about 4%. The display device may include a light guide plate comprising a first plate surface and an opposing second plate surface. The light guide plate may include a plurality of light extractors positioned on the second plate surface. The display device may include an optically transparent adhesive attached to the second cover surface and the first plate surface, such that the cover plate substrate is attached to the light guide plate. The display device may include a second antireflective coating applied to the second plate surface and at least a portion of the plurality of light extractors. The second antireflective coating has a total reflectance in the visible spectrum, which may be in the range of about 1% to about 4%. The display device may include a third antireflective coating spaced apart from the second antireflective coating, such that a gap exists between the second and third antireflective coatings. The third antireflective coating can be applied to a polarizer, and the total reflectance of the third antireflective coating in the visible spectrum can be in the range of about 1% to about 4%.

[0016] In various aspects, the display device may include a color filter adjacent to the polarizer. A liquid crystal layer may be adjacent to the color filter. A reflector may be adjacent to the liquid crystal layer. A thin-film transistor substrate may be adjacent to the reflector.

[0017] In all respects, the total reflectance of the first antireflective coating in the visible spectrum is in the range of about 1% to about 3%. The total reflectance of the second antireflective coating in the visible spectrum is in the range of about 1% to about 3%. The total reflectance of the third antireflective coating in the visible spectrum is in the range of about 1% to about 3%.

[0018] In various aspects, methods of manufacturing a display device may include applying a first antireflective coating to a first cover surface of a cover substrate. The first antireflective coating has a total reflectance in the visible spectrum ranging from about 380 nm to about 750 nm, which may be in the range of about 1% to about 4%. The method may include positioning a light guide plate adjacent to the cover substrate. The light guide plate may include a first plate surface and an opposing second plate surface. The first plate surface may face the second cover surface of the cover substrate. The light guide plate may include a plurality of light extractors positioned at the second plate surface. The method may include applying a second antireflective coating to the second plate surface and at least a portion of the plurality of light extractors. The second antireflective coating has a total reflectance in the visible spectrum, which may be in the range of about 1% to about 4%. The method may include applying a third antireflective coating to a polarizer such that the third antireflective coating is spaced apart from the second antireflective coating, and a gap may exist between the second and third antireflective coatings. The third antireflective coating has a total reflectance in the visible spectrum, which may be in the range of about 1% to about 4%.

[0019] In various respects, the method may include attaching the surface of the second cover plate and the surface of the first plate using an optically transparent adhesive.

[0020] In various aspects, the method may include positioning a color filter adjacent to the polarizer. The method may include positioning a liquid crystal layer adjacent to the color filter. The method may include positioning a reflector adjacent to the liquid crystal layer. The method may include positioning a thin-film transistor substrate adjacent to the reflector.

[0021] In all respects, the direct reflectivity of the display device to ambient light can be in the range of about 5% to about 7%.

[0022] In all respects, the total reflectance of the first antireflective coating in the visible spectrum is in the range of about 1% to about 3%. The total reflectance of the second antireflective coating in the visible spectrum is in the range of about 1% to about 3%. The total reflectance of the third antireflective coating in the visible spectrum is in the range of about 1% to about 3%.

[0023] In various respects, the method may include applying a fourth antireflective coating to the surface of the second cover plate, the fourth antireflective coating having a total reflectance of less than about 2% in the visible spectrum.

[0024] In various respects, the method may include applying a fifth antireflective coating to the surface of the first plate, the fifth antireflective coating having a total reflectance of less than about 2% in the visible spectrum.

[0025] Additional features and advantages of the aspects disclosed herein will be set forth in the following detailed description, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand, or recognize by practice, some of the features and advantages thereof, based on the description, including the following detailed description, the claims, and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description present aspects intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and features of the aspects disclosed herein. The accompanying drawings are included to provide further understanding and are incorporated in and form a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate aspects of this disclosure and, together with the description, explain the principles and operation of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0026] These and other features, aspects, and advantages can be better understood when reading the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings:

[0027] Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of a display device including an anti-reflective coating according to various aspects of this disclosure is illustrated schematically;

[0028] Figure 2 Exemplary embodiments of a display device including an additional anti-reflective coating according to various aspects of this disclosure are schematically illustrated; and

[0029] Figure 3 A method for manufacturing a display device according to various aspects of this disclosure is illustrated schematically. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The aspects will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which example aspects are shown. Where possible, the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar parts. However, this disclosure can be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the aspects set forth herein.

[0031] As used herein, the term “about” means that quantities, sizes, formulations, parameters and other quantities and characteristics are not exact and need not be exact, but can be approximate and / or larger or smaller as needed, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding, measurement errors and other factors known to those skilled in the art.

[0032] In this document, a range may be expressed as from “about” one value and / or to “about” another value. When such a range is expressed, each aspect includes the distance from said one value to said other value. Similarly, when a value is expressed as an approximation using the antecedent “about”, it should be understood that said value forms the other aspect. It should be further understood that the endpoints of each range are valid both in relation to and independent of the other endpoint.

[0033] The directional terms used in this article, such as up, down, right, left, forward, backward, top, bottom, upper, lower, etc., are used only with reference to the accompanying drawings and are not intended to imply absolute orientation.

[0034] Unless otherwise expressly stated, no method described herein implies a requirement that its steps be performed in a particular order, nor does it imply that any device requires a particular orientation. Therefore, if a method claim does not actually describe the order in which its steps are followed, or any device claim does not actually describe the order or orientation of individual components, or if the claims or description do not otherwise specifically state that the steps are limited to a particular order, or do not describe a particular order or orientation of the device's components, then no inference is made in any way of inferring an order or orientation. This applies to any possible non-express basis of interpretation, including: logical matters concerning the arrangement of steps, the flow of operations, the order of components, or the orientation of components; the general meaning derived from grammatical organization or punctuation; and the number or type of aspects described in the specification.

[0035] As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a / an” and “the” include plural indicators. Thus, for example, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, a reference to “a” component includes aspects having two or more such components.

[0036] The terms “exemplary,” “example,” or their various forms are used herein to mean something that serves as an example, illustration, or description. No aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” or “example” should be construed as superior to or better than any other aspect or design. Furthermore, examples are provided solely for clarity and understanding and are not intended to limit or constrain the disclosed subject matter or any relevant portion of this disclosure in any way. It will be understood that numerous additional or alternative examples of varying scope may have been presented, but for the sake of brevity, such examples may have been omitted.

[0037] As used herein, unless otherwise stated, the terms “comprising” and “including” and their variations shall be interpreted as synonymous and open-ended. The list of elements following the transitional phrase “comprising” or “including” is a non-exclusive list, and therefore may include other elements besides those specifically described in the list.

[0038] As used herein, the terms “basically,” “substantially,” and their variations are intended to indicate that the described feature is equal to or approximately equal to a certain value or description. For example, a “substantially flat” surface is intended to mean a flat or substantially flat surface. Furthermore, “substantially” is intended to indicate that two values ​​are equal or approximately equal. The term “substantially” can also indicate values ​​that differ from each other by approximately 10%, such as values ​​that differ from each other by approximately 5%, or values ​​that differ from each other by approximately 2%.

[0039] Modifications may be made to this disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed subject matter. Unless otherwise stated, terms such as "first," "second," etc., are not intended to imply temporal, spatial, or sequential aspects. Rather, such terms are used only as identifiers or names of features, elements, items, etc. For example, the first end and the second end typically correspond to end A and end B, or two different ends.

[0040] This disclosure relates to a display device and a method for manufacturing the display device. The method and apparatus for manufacturing the display device will now be described by way of example. Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of a display device 101 is shown. The display device 101 may include a cover plate substrate 103, which includes a first cover surface 105 and an opposing second cover surface 107. The first cover surface 105 and the second cover surface 107 face opposite directions. In various respects, the cover plate substrate 103 may comprise a glass substrate, a glass-ceramic substrate, a plastic substrate, or another suitable substrate that can be rigid or flexible. The cover plate substrate 103 is optically transparent, allowing light to pass through it between the first cover surface 105 and the second cover surface 107. The cover plate substrate 103 may comprise a flat substrate or a curved substrate.

[0041] Display device 101 may include a first antireflective coating 111 applied to a cover plate substrate 103 (e.g., applied to a first cover plate surface 105). In this way, the first antireflective coating 111 may form the outermost layer of display device 101. In various aspects, the total reflectance of the first antireflective coating 111 in the visible spectrum of light (e.g., in the range of about 380 nm to about 750 nm) may be in the range of about 1% to about 4%, or the total reflectance in the visible spectrum may be in the range of about 1% to about 3%, or the total reflectance in the visible spectrum may be less than about 2%. As used herein, the term "visible spectrum" may refer to the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum visible to the human eye. The first antireflective coating 111 may be applied to the first cover plate surface 105, for example, by discrete deposition processes, continuous deposition processes, physical vapor deposition, sputtering, etc. In various aspects, the first antireflective coating 111 may comprise one or more layers of material. For example, when the first antireflective coating 111 comprises multiple layers, the first antireflective coating 111 may comprise alternating layers with different refractive indices, such as alternating layers of low-refractive-index materials and high-refractive-index materials. For example, the first layer in the first antireflective coating 111 may comprise a low-refractive-index material, while an adjacent second layer in the first antireflective coating 111 may comprise a high-refractive-index material. In various respects, the difference in refractive index between the low-refractive-index and high-refractive-index materials may be greater than about 0.01, greater than about 0.05, greater than about 0.1, or greater than about 0.2. Therefore, a method of manufacturing the display device 101 may include applying the first antireflective coating 111 (e.g., using...). Figure 3 Arrow 301 in the diagram shows the first cover surface 105 of the cover substrate 103.

[0042] In all respects, the first antireflective coating 111 may comprise one or more of the following materials: SiO2, Al2O3, GeO2, SiO, AlO x N y AlN, SiN x SiO x N y Si u Al v O x N yThe low refractive index layer may contain one or more of the following materials: Ta2O5, Nb2O5, TiO2, ZrO2, TiN, MgO, MgF2, BaF2, CaF2, SnO2, HfO2, Y2O3, MoO3, DyF3, YbF3, YF3, CeF3, polymers, fluoropolymers, plasma-polymerized polymers, siloxane polymers, silsesquioxanes, polyimides, fluorinated polyimides, polyetherimides, polyethersulfone, polyphenylsulfone, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, acrylic polymers, polyurethane polymers, polymethyl methacrylate, etc. In various aspects, the low refractive index layer may contain one or more of the following materials: SiO2, Al2O3, GeO2, SiO, AlO x N y SiO x N y Si u Al v O x N y MgO, MgAl2O4, MgF2, BaF2, CaF2, DyF3, YbF3, YF3, and CeF3. In various aspects, the high refractive index layer can contain one or more of the following materials: Si u Al v O x N y , Ta2O5, Nb2O5, AlN, Si3N4, AlO x N y SiO x N y HfO2, TiO2, ZrO2, Y2O3, Al2O3, MoO3, and diamond-like carbon. In all aspects, the nitrogen content in the low-refractive-index layer material can be minimized, and the oxygen content in the high-refractive-index layer material can be minimized.

[0043] Display device 101 may include an optically transparent adhesive 115 for attaching cover plate substrate 103 to light guide plate 121. For example, the optically transparent adhesive 115 may be attached to a second cover plate surface 107 and a first plate surface 123 of light guide plate 121, such that cover plate substrate 103 can be attached to light guide plate 121. In this way, the method may include attaching the second cover plate surface 107 and the first plate surface 123 with optically transparent adhesive 115 (e.g., using...). Figure 3(See arrow 309 in the diagram). Because the optically clear adhesive 115 is bonded to the cover plate substrate 103 and the light guide plate 121, there may be no air gap between the cover plate substrate 103 and the light guide plate 121. The optically clear adhesive 115 may comprise one or more of the following: polyolefins, polyamides, halogenated polymers (e.g., polyvinyl chloride or fluoropolymers), elastomers, urethanes, phenolic resins, parylene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), or phenyl silicone. Examples of polyolefins include low molecular weight polyethylene (LDPE), high molecular weight polyethylene (HDPE), ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), and polypropylene (PP). Examples of fluoropolymers include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVF), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), perfluoropolyether (PFPE), perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA), perfluoroalkoxy (PFA), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP) polymers, and ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) polymers. Examples of elastomers include rubbers (e.g., polybutadiene, polyisoprene, chloroprene rubber, butyl rubber, nitrile rubber) and block copolymers (e.g., styrene-butadiene, high-impact polystyrene, poly(dichlorophosphazene)). The optically clear adhesive 115 may comprise one or more optically clear polymers: acrylics (e.g., polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)), epoxy resins, silicones, and / or polyurethanes. Exemplary aspects of epoxy resins include bisphenol epoxy resins, phenolic epoxy resins, alicyclic epoxy resins, and glycidylamine epoxy resins. In a further aspect, the optically clear adhesive 115 may comprise, but is not limited to, acrylic adhesives, such as 3M 8212 adhesive, or optically clear liquid adhesives, such as LOCTITE optically clear liquid adhesive. Exemplary aspects of optically clear adhesives include transparent acrylics, epoxy resins, silicones, and polyurethanes. For example, optically clear liquid adhesives may contain one or more of the following: LOCTITE AD 8650, LOCTITE AA 3922, LOCTITE EA E-05MR, LOCTITE UK U-09LV, all of which are available from Henkel.

[0044] Display device 101 includes a light guide plate 121, the light guide plate including a first plate surface 123 and an opposing second plate surface 125. The first plate surface 123 and the second plate surface 125 face opposite directions, wherein the first plate surface 123 faces the second cover plate surface 107 of the cover plate substrate 103. The method may include positioning the light guide plate 121 (e.g., using...). Figure 3(Arrow 303 in the diagram shows) adjacent to the cover plate substrate 103. The light guide plate 121 comprises a transparent material for lighting and display applications. As used herein, the term "transparent" is intended to mean that the light guide plate 121 has an optical transmittance greater than about 70% in the visible region of the spectrum (e.g., about 380–750 nm) over a length of about 500 mm. In all respects, the light guide plate 121 may have an optical transmittance greater than about 50% in the ultraviolet (UV) region (about 100–400 nm) over a length of 500 mm. In all respects, the light guide plate 121 may have an optical transmittance of at least 95% for wavelengths in the range of about 450 nm to about 650 nm over a path length of 50 mm. In all respects, transmittance data in the visible spectrum can be measured using a Lambda 950 UV / Vis / NIR spectrophotometer manufactured by PerkinElmer Inc. (Waltham, Massachusetts USA). In all aspects, the Lambda 950 instrument can be equipped with a 150 mm integrating sphere. It can use an open beam baseline and Spectralon. ® Data is collected using a reference reflector.

[0045] The refractive index of the light guide plate 121 can be in the range of about 1.3 to about 1.8. In other respects, the light attenuation level of the light guide plate 121 can be relatively low (e.g., due to absorption and / or scattering). For example, the light attenuation (a) of the light guide plate 121 for wavelengths in the range of about 380-750 nanometers can be less than about 5 dB / m and can be determined by testing or based on the material and dimensions of the light guide plate 121. The light guide plate 121 can contain a variety of materials that provide the desired optical properties. In various respects, the light guide plate 121 can contain amorphous inorganic materials (e.g., glass), crystalline materials (e.g., sapphire, single-crystal or polycrystalline alumina, spinel (MgAl2O4), quartz), or polymers. Examples of suitable polymers include, but are not limited to, the following polymers and their copolymers and blends: thermoplastics (including polystyrene (PS)), polycarbonate (PC), polyesters (including polyethylene terephthalate (PET)), polyolefins (including polyethylene (PE)), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acrylic polymers (including polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyetherimide (PEI), epoxy resins, and silicones (including polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)). Examples of glasses that can be strengthened or unstrengthened and can contain or not contain lithium oxide include soda-lime glass, alkali aluminosilicate glass, alkali borosilicate glass, and alkali aluminosilicate glass. As used herein, the term "strengthened," when applied to a substrate (e.g., glass or another transparent layer), can refer to a substrate that has been chemically strengthened, for example, by ion exchange between larger and smaller ions on the substrate surface. However, other strengthening methods known in the art (e.g., heat tempering, or utilizing the mismatch in the coefficients of thermal expansion between portions of the substrate to create compressive stress and a central tension zone) can be used to form strengthened substrates. Non-limiting examples of commercially available glass suitable for use as glass light guide plate 121 include EAGLE XG®, Lotus, Willow®, Iris™ and Gorilla® glass from Corning Incorporated.

[0046] The light guide plate 121 may include a plurality of light extractors 129 positioned on the surface 125 of the second plate. In various aspects, the plurality of light extractors 129 may have an arcuate or curved shape projecting outward from the surface 125 of the second plate. For example, the plurality of light extractors 129 may include a first light extractor 133, a second light extractor 135, etc. The surface 125 of the second plate may include a first surface portion 137, a second surface portion 139, etc. In various aspects, the light extractors 133, 135 may be spaced apart and separated by the surface portions 137, 139. For example, the first surface portion 137 may be positioned between the first light extractor 133 and the second light extractor 135. The second light extractor 135 may be positioned between the first surface portion 137 and the second surface portion 139. In this way, the light extractors 133, 135 and the surface portions 137, 139 may be alternately positioned along the surface 125 of the second plate. In various aspects, the plurality of light extractors 129 are not limited to the circular or arcuate shapes shown. Conversely, in various respects, some or all of the multiple light extractors 129 may contain other shapes, such as quadrilaterals (e.g., rectangular shapes, square shapes, etc.), hexagonal shapes, etc.

[0047] In various aspects, some or all of the plurality of light extractors 129 may include diffuse reflectors that enhance light scattering at a sufficiently high angle so that light can propagate in the light guide plate 121 via total internal reflection. In other aspects, some or all of the plurality of light extractors 129 may include specular reflectors in which specular reflection of light is provided, and incident light is reflected to a single outgoing direction. The plurality of light extractors 129 may be formed by printing patterns using white ink, black ink, metallic ink, or other suitable inks (e.g., inkjet printing, screen printing, microprinting). The plurality of light extractors 129 may also be formed by first depositing a continuous layer of white or metallic material (e.g., by physical vapor deposition or many different coating techniques, such as slot die or spraying), and then patterning the layer by photolithography or other known area-selective material removal methods.

[0048] The display device 101 may include a second antireflective coating 143 applied to at least a portion of the second plate surface 125 and the plurality of light extractors 129. For example, in various aspects, the second antireflective coating 143 may cover part or all of the second plate surface 125 (e.g., some or all of surface portions 137, 139, etc.) and may cover some or all of the plurality of light extractors 129 (e.g., light extractors 133, 135, etc.). In this way, the second antireflective coating 143 may at least partially cover one side of the light guide plate 121. In various aspects, the second antireflective coating 143 may contain the same material as or a different material from the first antireflective coating 111. In various aspects, the total reflectance of the second antireflective coating 143 in the visible spectrum may be in the range of about 1% to about 4%, or the total reflectance in the visible spectrum may be in the range of about 1% to about 3%, or the total reflectance in the visible spectrum may be less than about 2%. In various aspects, total reflectance can be measured by illuminating a material (e.g., an anti-reflective coating) with light and measuring the light reflected from the material, where the reflected light may include specular and diffuse reflection. Specular and diffuse reflection can be combined and referred to as total reflected light or the total reflectance of the material. In various aspects, relative specular reflectance can be measured using a specular reflection measuring accessory. In various aspects, relative diffuse reflectance can be measured by using an integrating sphere to measure diffuse reflection and exclude specular reflection. Alternatively or in an alternative, an integrating sphere can be used to measure relative total reflectance, where light may be incident on the material at an angle of incidence (e.g., less than about 10 degrees), and then the integrating sphere is used to measure the diffuse and specular reflection of the material.

[0049] The second anti-reflective coating 143 can be applied to the surface 125 of the second plate, for example, by discrete deposition, continuous deposition, physical vapor deposition, sputtering, etc. The method may include applying the second anti-reflective coating 143 (e.g., using...). Figure 3 (Arrow 305 in the diagram shows) at least a portion of the second plate surface 125 and the plurality of light extractors 129. In various aspects, the second anti-reflective coating 143 may be applied before or after the formation of the plurality of light extractors 129. For example, in various aspects, the second anti-reflective coating 143 may be applied first to the second plate surface 125, and then the plurality of light extractors 129 may be formed by etching, piercing, and / or laser printing onto the second plate surface 125. Alternatively, the plurality of light extractors 129 may be formed first, and then the second anti-reflective coating 143 may be applied to the second plate surface 125. In various aspects, the second anti-reflective coating 143 may cover all of the second plate surface 125 and all of the plurality of light extractors 129.

[0050] In various aspects, the second antireflective coating 143 may comprise one or more layers of material. For example, when the second antireflective coating 143 comprises multiple layers, it may comprise alternating layers with different refractive indices, such as alternating layers of low-refractive-index material and high-refractive-index material. For example, the first layer in the second antireflective coating 143 may comprise a low-refractive-index material, while an adjacent second layer in the second antireflective coating 143 may comprise a high-refractive-index material. In various aspects, the difference in refractive index between the low-refractive-index and high-refractive-index materials may be greater than about 0.01, greater than about 0.05, greater than about 0.1, or greater than about 0.2.

[0051] In all respects, the second antireflective coating 143 may comprise one or more of the following materials: SiO2, Al2O3, GeO2, SiO, AlO x N y AlN, SiN x SiO x N y Si u Al v O x N y The low refractive index layer may contain one or more of the following materials: Ta2O5, Nb2O5, TiO2, ZrO2, TiN, MgO, MgF2, BaF2, CaF2, SnO2, HfO2, Y2O3, MoO3, DyF3, YbF3, YF3, CeF3, polymers, fluoropolymers, plasma-polymerized polymers, siloxane polymers, silsesquioxanes, polyimides, fluorinated polyimides, polyetherimides, polyethersulfone, polyphenylsulfone, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, acrylic polymers, polyurethane polymers, polymethyl methacrylate, etc. In various aspects, the low refractive index layer may contain one or more of the following materials: SiO2, Al2O3, GeO2, SiO, AlO x N y SiO x N y Si u Al v O x N y MgO, MgAl2O4, MgF2, BaF2, CaF2, DyF3, YbF3, YF3, and CeF3. In various aspects, the high refractive index layer can contain one or more of the following materials: Si u Al v O x N y , Ta2O5, Nb2O5, AlN, Si3N4, AlO x N y SiO x N yHfO2, TiO2, ZrO2, Y2O3, Al2O3, MoO3, and diamond-like carbon. In all aspects, the nitrogen content in the low-refractive-index layer material can be minimized, and the oxygen content in the high-refractive-index layer material can be minimized.

[0052] Display device 101 may include a third antireflective coating 147 applied to polarizer 149, wherein the third antireflective coating 147 is spaced apart from a second antireflective coating 143 such that a gap 151 is formed between the second antireflective coating 143 and the third antireflective coating 147. Polarizer 149 may include a first polarizer surface 155 and an opposing second polarizer surface 157, the first polarizer surface and the second polarizer surface may face opposite directions, wherein the first polarizer surface 155 faces the light guide plate 121. In various respects, the third antireflective coating 147 is applied to the first polarizer surface 155, wherein the third antireflective coating 147 covers part or all of the first polarizer surface 155. The third antireflective coating 147 may contain the same material as the first antireflective coating 111 and / or the second antireflective coating 143 or a different material. In this way, the total reflectance of the third antireflective coating 147 in the visible spectrum can be in the range of about 1% to about 4%, or the total reflectance in the visible spectrum can be in the range of about 1% to about 3%, or the total reflectance in the visible spectrum can be less than about 2%. The gap 151 between the second antireflective coating 143 and the third antireflective coating 147 can contain empty voids or spaces (e.g., air gaps) so that the second antireflective coating 143 does not come into contact with the third antireflective coating 147.

[0053] The third anti-reflective coating 147 can be applied to the polarizer 149, for example, by discrete deposition, continuous deposition, physical vapor deposition, sputtering, etc. The method may include applying the third anti-reflective coating 147 (e.g., using...). Figure 3 Arrow 307 (shown in the diagram) points to polarizer 149, such that the third antireflective coating 147 is spaced apart from the second antireflective coating 143 by a certain distance, and a gap 151 exists between the second antireflective coating 143 and the third antireflective coating 147. In various respects, the third antireflective coating 147 may comprise one or more layers of material. For example, when the third antireflective coating 147 comprises multiple layers, it may comprise alternating layers with different refractive indices, such as alternating layers of low-refractive-index material and high-refractive-index material. For example, the first layer in the third antireflective coating 147 may comprise a low-refractive-index material, while an adjacent second layer in the third antireflective coating 147 may comprise a high-refractive-index material. In various respects, the difference in refractive index between the low-refractive-index and high-refractive-index materials may be greater than about 0.01, greater than about 0.05, greater than about 0.1, or greater than about 0.2.

[0054] In all respects, the third anti-reflective coating 147 may comprise one or more of the following materials: SiO2, Al2O3, GeO2, SiO, AlO x N y AlN, SiN x SiO x N y Si u Al v O x N y The low refractive index layer may contain one or more of the following materials: Ta2O5, Nb2O5, TiO2, ZrO2, TiN, MgO, MgF2, BaF2, CaF2, SnO2, HfO2, Y2O3, MoO3, DyF3, YbF3, YF3, CeF3, polymers, fluoropolymers, plasma-polymerized polymers, siloxane polymers, silsesquioxanes, polyimides, fluorinated polyimides, polyetherimides, polyethersulfone, polyphenylsulfone, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, acrylic polymers, polyurethane polymers, polymethyl methacrylate, etc. In various aspects, the low refractive index layer may contain one or more of the following materials: SiO2, Al2O3, GeO2, SiO, AlO x N y SiO x N y Si u Al v O x N y MgO, MgAl2O4, MgF2, BaF2, CaF2, DyF3, YbF3, YF3, and CeF3. In various aspects, the high refractive index layer can contain one or more of the following materials: Si u Al v O x N y , Ta2O5, Nb2O5, AlN, Si3N4, AlO x N y SiO x N y HfO2, TiO2, ZrO2, Y2O3, Al2O3, MoO3, and diamond-like carbon. In all aspects, the nitrogen content in the low-refractive-index layer material can be minimized, and the oxygen content in the high-refractive-index layer material can be minimized.

[0055] Polarizer 149 includes an optical filter that allows light waves of a specific polarization to pass through while blocking light waves of other polarizations. In this way, polarizer 149 can filter out one or more specific polarizations (e.g., to limit the passage of specific polarizations). Display device 101 may include a color filter 161 that extends adjacent to polarizer 149 and is attached to a second polarizer surface 157. Color filter 161 may include an array of red, green, and / or blue color filters to produce desired display colors. A method may include positioning color filter 161 (e.g., using...) Figure 3 (Arrow 311 in the diagram shows) adjacent to polarizer 149. Display device 101 may include liquid crystal layer 165 extending adjacent to color filter 161. Method may include positioning liquid crystal layer 165 (e.g., using...) Figure 3 (Arrow 313 in the diagram shows) adjacent to the color filter 161. The display device 101 may include a reflector 171 extending adjacent to the liquid crystal layer 165. The reflector 171 comprises an inherently reflective material, such as aluminum, steel, silver, etc. In various aspects, the reflector 171 may comprise a material such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polycarbonate (PC), which is reflective when placed adjacent to another material in the display device 101 with a different refractive index. In various aspects, the average reflectivity of the reflector 171 in the wavelength range of about 400 nm to about 700 nm may be about 90% or greater, about 95% or greater, about 96% or greater, or about 98% or greater. In various aspects, the reflector 171 may face the liquid crystal layer 165. The method may include positioning the reflector 171 (e.g., using...) Figure 3 (Indicated by arrow 315) adjacent to the liquid crystal layer 165. The display device 101 may include a thin-film transistor (TFT) substrate 175 extending adjacent to the reflector 171. The method may include positioning the thin-film transistor substrate 175 (e.g., using...) Figure 3 Arrow 317 (shown in the image) is adjacent to reflector 171.

[0056] Display device 101 may include a light source 181 that delivers light to a first edge 183 of a light guide plate 121. Therefore, display device 101 may include a forward-reflective display device. The first edge 183 may extend along the periphery of the light guide plate 121 between a first plate surface 123 and a second plate surface 125. In various aspects, the light source 181 may include one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) positioned along the first edge 183. In various aspects, the thickness or height of the light source 181 may be less than or equal to the thickness of the light guide plate 121. Although... Figure 1The illustration shows light from light source 181 being injected into a single edge 183, but additional light sources (e.g., those similar to or identical to light source 181) can be positioned along other edges of the light guide plate 121. In various aspects, light source 181 can be coupled to the first edge 183, for example, by positioning it adjacent to the first edge 183 and / or by attaching it to the first edge. In various aspects, some or all of the other edges of the light guide plate 121 may contain edge reflectors that can substantially reflect all light incident upon them. In this way, the edge reflectors can reflect a certain percentage of light. Exemplary reflection percentages can be greater than about 50%, between about 50% and about 95%, less than or equal to 100%, etc.

[0057] Light source 181 can supply (e.g., inject, guide, etc.) light into light guide plate 121 from one side (e.g., adjacent to the first edge 183). Light guide plate 121 can receive light from light source 181 and redirect the light to provide uniform illumination to reflective liquid crystal layer 165. Multiple light extractors 129 can extract light from light source 181 and limit the possibility of light being trapped within light guide plate 121 due to total internal reflection.

[0058] Figure 2 Additional aspects of the display device 101 are shown, which further include an additional anti-reflective coating. For example, the display device 101 may include a fourth anti-reflective coating 201 applied to a second cover surface 107 of a cover substrate 103. The fourth anti-reflective coating 201 may be positioned between and in contact with the cover substrate 103 and an optically clear adhesive 115, wherein the optically clear adhesive 115 is bonded to the fourth anti-reflective coating 201. The total reflectance of the fourth anti-reflective coating 201 in the visible spectrum may be in the range of about 1% to about 4%, or the total reflectance in the visible spectrum may be in the range of about 1% to about 3%, or the total reflectance in the visible spectrum may be less than about 2%. The fourth anti-reflective coating 201 may be applied, for example, by discrete deposition processes, continuous deposition processes, physical vapor deposition, sputtering, etc. The method may include applying the fourth anti-reflective coating 201 (e.g., using...). Figure 3 (Arrow 319 is shown in the diagram) on the second cover surface 107. In various aspects, the fourth antireflective coating 201 may comprise one or more layers of material. For example, when the fourth antireflective coating 201 comprises multiple layers, it may comprise alternating layers with different refractive indices, such as alternating layers of low-refractive-index material and high-refractive-index material. For example, the first layer in the fourth antireflective coating 201 may comprise a low-refractive-index material, while an adjacent second layer in the fourth antireflective coating 201 may comprise a high-refractive-index material. In various aspects, the difference in refractive index between the low-refractive-index and high-refractive-index materials may be greater than about 0.01, greater than about 0.05, greater than about 0.1, or greater than about 0.2.

[0059] In all respects, the fourth anti-reflective coating 201 may comprise one or more of the following materials: SiO2, Al2O3, GeO2, SiO, AlO x N y AlN, SiN x SiO x N y Si u Al v O x N y The low refractive index layer may contain one or more of the following materials: Ta2O5, Nb2O5, TiO2, ZrO2, TiN, MgO, MgF2, BaF2, CaF2, SnO2, HfO2, Y2O3, MoO3, DyF3, YbF3, YF3, CeF3, polymers, fluoropolymers, plasma-polymerized polymers, siloxane polymers, silsesquioxanes, polyimides, fluorinated polyimides, polyetherimides, polyethersulfone, polyphenylsulfone, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, acrylic polymers, polyurethane polymers, polymethyl methacrylate, etc. In various aspects, the low refractive index layer may contain one or more of the following materials: SiO2, Al2O3, GeO2, SiO, AlO x N y SiO x N y Si u Al v O x N y MgO, MgAl2O4, MgF2, BaF2, CaF2, DyF3, YbF3, YF3, and CeF3. In various aspects, the high refractive index layer can contain one or more of the following materials: Si u Al v O x N y , Ta2O5, Nb2O5, AlN, Si3N4, AlO x N y SiO x N y HfO2, TiO2, ZrO2, Y2O3, Al2O3, MoO3, and diamond-like carbon. In all aspects, the nitrogen content in the low-refractive-index layer material can be minimized, and the oxygen content in the high-refractive-index layer material can be minimized.

[0060] In various aspects, the display device 101 may include a fifth antireflective coating 203 applied to the first surface 123 of a light guide plate 121. The fifth antireflective coating 203 may be positioned between and in contact with the light guide plate 121 and an optically clear adhesive 115, wherein the optically clear adhesive 115 is bonded to the fifth antireflective coating 203. The total reflectance of the fifth antireflective coating 203 in the visible spectrum may be in the range of about 1% to about 4%, or the total reflectance in the visible spectrum may be in the range of about 1% to about 3%, or the total reflectance in the visible spectrum may be less than about 2%. The fifth antireflective coating 203 may be applied, for example, by discrete deposition processes, continuous deposition processes, physical vapor deposition, sputtering, etc. The method may include applying the fifth antireflective coating 203 (e.g., using...). Figure 3 (Arrow 321 is shown in the diagram) on the surface 123 of the first plate. In various respects, the fifth antireflective coating 203 may comprise one or more layers of material. For example, when the fifth antireflective coating 203 comprises multiple layers, it may comprise alternating layers with different refractive indices, such as alternating layers of low-refractive-index material and high-refractive-index material. For example, the first layer in the fifth antireflective coating 203 may comprise a low-refractive-index material, while an adjacent second layer in the fifth antireflective coating 203 may comprise a high-refractive-index material. In various respects, the difference in refractive index between the low-refractive-index and high-refractive-index materials may be greater than about 0.01, greater than about 0.05, greater than about 0.1, or greater than about 0.2.

[0061] In all aspects, the fifth anti-reflective coating 203 may contain one or more of the following materials: SiO2, Al2O3, GeO2, SiO, AlO x N y AlN, SiN x SiO x N y Si u Al v O x N y The low refractive index layer may contain one or more of the following materials: Ta2O5, Nb2O5, TiO2, ZrO2, TiN, MgO, MgF2, BaF2, CaF2, SnO2, HfO2, Y2O3, MoO3, DyF3, YbF3, YF3, CeF3, polymers, fluoropolymers, plasma-polymerized polymers, siloxane polymers, silsesquioxanes, polyimides, fluorinated polyimides, polyetherimides, polyethersulfone, polyphenylsulfone, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, acrylic polymers, polyurethane polymers, polymethyl methacrylate, etc. In various aspects, the low refractive index layer may contain one or more of the following materials: SiO2, Al2O3, GeO2, SiO, AlO x N y SiOx N y Si u Al v O x N y MgO, MgAl2O4, MgF2, BaF2, CaF2, DyF3, YbF3, YF3, and CeF3. In various aspects, the high refractive index layer can contain one or more of the following materials: Si u Al v O x N y , Ta2O5, Nb2O5, AlN, Si3N4, AlO x N y SiO x N y HfO2, TiO2, ZrO2, Y2O3, Al2O3, MoO3, and diamond-like carbon. In all aspects, the nitrogen content in the low-refractive-index layer material can be minimized, and the oxygen content in the high-refractive-index layer material can be minimized.

[0062] The display device 101 shown and described herein offers several benefits. For example, the anti-reflective coatings 111, 143, 147, 201, and 203 can reduce direct reflectivity. For example, in various aspects, the direct reflectivity of the display device 101 to ambient light can be in the range of about 5% to about 7%. That is, in the example, when the display device 101 includes three anti-reflective coatings 111, 143, and 147, the direct reflectivity of the display device 101 to ambient light can be about 6%, and the light transmittance is about 94.1%. In contrast, for a display device without any anti-reflective coatings, the direct reflectivity of ambient light is about 12%, and the transmittance is about 88%. Compared to a display device without anti-reflective coatings applied to the light guide plate and polarizer, the anti-reflective coatings 143 and 147 applied to the light guide plate 121 and polarizer 149 can further reduce Fresnel reflection by about 50% or more. Fresnel reflection refers to the phenomenon where, when light reaches the interface between two different and transparent media, some light is transmitted into the other material, while the other part is reflected back into the original material. Furthermore, compared to display devices without anti-reflective coatings, anti-reflective coatings 111, 143, 147, 201, and 203 can improve contrast.

[0063] It should be understood that although the various aspects have been described in detail with respect to certain illustrative specific examples, this disclosure should not be regarded as limited thereto, as many modifications and combinations of the disclosed features can be made without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display device comprising: A cover plate substrate, the cover plate substrate comprising a first cover plate surface and an opposing second cover plate surface; A first anti-reflective coating is applied to the surface of the first cover plate, and the total reflectance of the first anti-reflective coating in the visible spectrum in the range of about 1% to about 4% in the range of about 380 nanometers to about 750 nanometers. A light guide plate, the light guide plate including a first plate surface and an opposing second plate surface, the first plate surface facing the second cover plate surface, the light guide plate including a plurality of light extractors positioned on the second plate surface; A second anti-reflective coating is applied to the surface of the second plate and at least a portion of the plurality of light extractors, wherein the total reflectance of the second anti-reflective coating in the visible spectrum is in the range of about 1% to about 4%. as well as A third antireflective coating is provided, wherein the third antireflective coating is spaced apart from the second antireflective coating by a certain distance, such that there is a gap between the second antireflective coating and the third antireflective coating, and the total reflectivity of the third antireflective coating in the visible spectrum is in the range of about 1% to about 4%.

2. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: Polarizing filter; Color filter adjacent to the polarizer; The liquid crystal layer adjacent to the color filter; A reflector adjacent to the liquid crystal layer; and Thin-film transistor substrate adjacent to the reflector.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein the third anti-reflective coating is applied to the polarizer.

4. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein one or more of the following are true: The total reflectance of the first antireflective coating in the visible spectrum is in the range of about 1% to about 3%; The second antireflective coating has a total reflectance in the visible spectrum ranging from about 1% to about 3%; or The total reflectance of the third antireflective coating in the visible spectrum is in the range of about 1% to about 3%.

5. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising an optically transparent adhesive, the optically transparent adhesive being attached to the surface of the second cover plate and the surface of the first plate, such that the cover plate substrate is attached to the light guide plate.

6. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a fourth anti-reflective coating applied to the surface of the second cover plate.

7. The display device of claim 6, wherein the total reflectance of the fourth antireflective coating in the visible spectrum is less than about 2%.

8. The display device according to any one of claims 6 to 7, further comprising a fifth anti-reflective coating applied to the surface of the first plate.

9. The display device according to claim 8, wherein the total reflectance of the fifth antireflective coating in the visible spectrum is less than about 2%.

10. A display device comprising: A cover plate substrate, the cover plate substrate comprising a first cover plate surface and an opposing second cover plate surface; A first anti-reflective coating is applied to the surface of the first cover plate, and the total reflectance of the first anti-reflective coating in the visible spectrum in the range of about 1% to about 4% in the range of about 380 nanometers to about 750 nanometers. A light guide plate, the light guide plate including a first plate surface and an opposing second plate surface, the light guide plate including a plurality of light extractors positioned on the second plate surface; An optically transparent adhesive is attached to the surface of the second cover plate and the surface of the first plate, such that the cover plate substrate is attached to the light guide plate; A second anti-reflective coating is applied to the surface of the second plate and at least a portion of the plurality of light extractors, wherein the total reflectance of the second anti-reflective coating in the visible spectrum is in the range of about 1% to about 4%. as well as A third antireflective coating is provided, which is spaced a certain distance from the second antireflective coating, such that there is a gap between the second antireflective coating and the third antireflective coating. The third antireflective coating is applied to the polarizer and the total reflectance of the third antireflective coating in the visible spectrum is in the range of about 1% to about 4%.

11. The display device according to claim 10, further comprising: Color filter adjacent to the polarizer; The liquid crystal layer adjacent to the color filter; A reflector adjacent to the liquid crystal layer; and Thin-film transistor substrate adjacent to the reflector.

12. The display device according to claim 11, wherein one or more of the following are true: The total reflectance of the first antireflective coating in the visible spectrum is in the range of about 1% to about 3%; The second antireflective coating has a total reflectance in the visible spectrum ranging from about 1% to about 3%; or The total reflectance of the third antireflective coating in the visible spectrum is in the range of about 1% to about 3%.

13. A method of manufacturing a display device, the method comprising: A first antireflective coating is applied to the surface of a first cover plate of a cover plate substrate, wherein the total reflectance of the first antireflective coating in the visible spectrum in the range of about 1% to about 4% in the range of about 380 nm to about 750 nm. The light guide plate is positioned adjacent to the cover plate substrate. The light guide plate includes a first plate surface and an opposing second plate surface, the first plate surface facing the second cover plate surface of the cover plate substrate. The light guide plate includes a plurality of light extractors positioned at the second plate surface. A second antireflective coating is applied to the surface of the second plate and at least a portion of the plurality of light extractors, wherein the total reflectance of the second antireflective coating in the visible spectrum is in the range of about 1% to about 4%. as well as A third antireflective coating is applied to the polarizer such that the third antireflective coating is spaced a certain distance from the second antireflective coating, and there is a gap between the second antireflective coating and the third antireflective coating. The total reflectance of the third antireflective coating in the visible spectrum is in the range of about 1% to about 4%.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising attaching the second cover surface and the first plate surface to each other with an optically transparent adhesive.

15. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 14, further comprising: Position the color filter adjacent to the polarizer; Position the liquid crystal layer adjacent to the color filter; Position the reflector adjacent to the liquid crystal layer; and The thin-film transistor substrate is positioned adjacent to the reflector.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the direct reflectivity of the display device to ambient light is in the range of about 5% to about 7%.

17. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein one or more of the following are true: The total reflectance of the first antireflective coating in the visible spectrum is in the range of about 1% to about 3%; The second antireflective coating has a total reflectance in the visible spectrum ranging from about 1% to about 3%; or The total reflectance of the third antireflective coating in the visible spectrum is in the range of about 1% to about 3%.

18. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 17, further comprising applying a fourth antireflective coating to the surface of the second cover plate, said fourth antireflective coating having a total reflectance of less than about 2% in the visible spectrum.

19. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 18, further comprising applying a fifth antireflective coating to the surface of the first plate, said fifth antireflective coating having a total reflectance of less than about 2% in the visible spectrum.

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