A privacy panel, display module and display device

Abstract

The application provides a kind of privacy panel, display module and display device, privacy panel includes the substrate and cover plate of relative arrangement, substrate has first area, first area has first electrode between, further include the support column between substrate and cover plate, support column is located in first area, further include the electrophoretic liquid between substrate and cover plate, privacy panel includes the first edge extending along first direction, between the center of privacy panel and first edge, first area includes first sub-region and second sub-region, first sub-region is located between first edge and the second sub-region, support column includes first support column and second support column, first support column is located in first sub-region, second support column is located in second sub-region, the size of first support column in first direction is greater than the size of second support column in first direction, increase the density of support column in first direction on the side of first edge, relieve the puncture problem and in-plane uneven problem of electrophoretic liquid at first edge.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of semiconductors, and in particular to a privacy panel, a display module, and a display device. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of display technology, existing monitors have very wide light emission angles, with the maximum light emission angle even reaching 178°, such as ADS displays. Such a wide viewing angle provides consumers with an excellent user experience in some applications, such as television products. However, in other applications, such as personal mobile products or special applications, it can lead to the leakage of personal information or privacy.

[0003] Currently, privacy panels can be installed, with the electrophoretic fluid within the panel used to limit light emission from a wide viewing angle, thus achieving privacy protection. In privacy mode, electrophoretic particles are dispersed in the electrophoretic fluid, and light emission from a wide viewing angle is absorbed by the electrophoretic particles, limiting the light emission from that angle. In shared mode, voltage drives the electrophoretic particles to adhere to the vicinity of the electrodes, and light emission from a wide viewing angle is not restricted. However, privacy panels are prone to edge puncture problems. Edge puncture refers to the electrophoretic fluid spreading to the edge of the privacy panel and compressing the sealing layer surrounding the electrophoretic fluid, causing the sealing layer to be subjected to greater local pressure, and even resulting in the electrophoretic fluid migrating to the outside of the sealing layer. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the purpose of this application is to provide a privacy panel, a display module and a display device that, while ensuring privacy function, alleviates the problem of electrophoretic liquid puncture at the first edge and the problem of in-plane unevenness, and facilitates the realization of a narrow bezel design.

[0005] This application provides a privacy panel, including:

[0006] A substrate and a cover plate are disposed opposite to each other; the substrate has a first region and a first electrode is provided between the first regions;

[0007] The support column between the substrate and the cover plate is located in the first region;

[0008] Electrophoretic solution located between the substrate and the cover plate;

[0009] The privacy panel includes a first edge extending along a first direction. Between the center of the privacy panel and the first edge, the first region includes a first sub-region and a second sub-region. The first sub-region is located between the first edge and the second sub-region. The support pillar includes a first support pillar and a second support pillar. The first support pillar is located in the first sub-region, and the second support pillar is located in the second sub-region. The dimension of the first support pillar in the first direction is greater than the dimension of the second support pillar in the first direction.

[0010] Optionally, the first support column includes a first sub-support column and a second sub-support column arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction, with the second sub-support column located between the first sub-support column and the second support column.

[0011] Optionally, the dimension of the first sub-support column in the first direction is greater than the dimension of the second sub-support column in the first direction.

[0012] Optionally, along a second direction intersecting the first direction, the gap between adjacent first sub-support columns overlaps with the second sub-support column.

[0013] Optionally, one of the first sub-support columns overlaps with N1 second support columns and the interval between the N1 second support columns in the second direction, and one of the second sub-support columns overlaps with N2 second support columns and the interval between the N2 second support columns in the second direction, wherein N1 and N2 are positive integers, and N1 is greater than N2.

[0014] Optionally, along the second direction, one of the first sub-support columns and one of the second sub-support columns overlap with N3 of the second support columns and the interval between the N3 of the second support columns, where N3 is a positive integer;

[0015] All N3 second support columns overlap with the first sub-support columns, and / or at least one of the N3 second support columns includes a portion that does not overlap with the second sub-support column.

[0016] Optionally, the first support column includes a third sub-support column and a fourth sub-support column arranged along the first direction, pointing from the center of the privacy panel to the edge and parallel to the first direction. The third sub-support column is located between the fourth sub-support column and the second edge, the second edge intersecting the first edge, and the dimension of the third sub-support column in the first direction is smaller than the dimension of the fourth sub-support column in the first direction.

[0017] Optionally, the first support column includes a fifth sub-support column and a sixth sub-support column arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction. The sixth sub-support column is located between the fifth sub-support column and the second support column. The dimension of the fifth sub-support column in the second direction is greater than the dimension of the sixth sub-support column in the second direction.

[0018] Optionally, the second support columns include a gap area, the dimension of one fifth sub-support column in the second direction is less than or equal to the sum of the dimensions of N4 second support columns in the second direction and the dimensions of N4 gap areas in the second direction, and the dimension of one fifth sub-support column in the second direction is greater than the dimensions of N4 second support columns in the second direction, where N4 is a positive integer.

[0019] Optionally, the dimension of one of the sixth sub-support columns in the second direction is greater than or equal to the dimension of the N4 second support columns in the second direction.

[0020] Optionally, one of the fifth sub-support columns overlaps with N5 second support columns and the interval between the N5 second support columns in the first direction, and one of the sixth sub-support columns overlaps with N6 second support columns in the first direction, wherein N5 and N6 are positive integers, and N5 is greater than N6.

[0021] Optionally, the privacy panel includes a second edge extending along a second direction intersecting the first direction. Between the center of the privacy panel and the second edge, the first region includes a third sub-region and a fourth sub-region, the third sub-region being located between the second edge and the fourth sub-region. The support pillar further includes a third support pillar and a fourth support pillar, the third support pillar being located in the third sub-region and the fourth support pillar being located in the fourth sub-region. The dimension of the third support pillar in the second direction is greater than the dimension of the fourth support pillar in the second direction.

[0022] Optionally, the third support column includes a seventh sub-support column and an eighth sub-support column arranged along the first direction. The eighth sub-support column is located between the seventh sub-support column and the fourth support column. The dimension of the seventh sub-support column in the second direction is greater than the dimension of the eighth sub-support column in the second direction.

[0023] Optionally, along the first direction, the gap between adjacent seventh sub-support columns overlaps with the eighth sub-support column.

[0024] Optionally, the third support column includes a ninth sub-support column and a tenth sub-support column arranged along the second direction. In a direction parallel to the second direction and pointing from the center of the privacy panel to the edge, the ninth sub-support column is located between the tenth sub-support column and the first edge. The dimension of the ninth sub-support column in the second direction is smaller than the dimension of the tenth sub-support column in the second direction.

[0025] Optionally, the third support column includes an eleventh sub-support column and a twelfth sub-support column arranged along the second direction. The twelfth sub-support column is located between the eleventh sub-support column and the fourth support column. The dimension of the eleventh sub-support column in the first direction is greater than the dimension of the twelfth sub-support column in the first direction.

[0026] Optionally, the privacy panel includes a second edge extending along a second direction intersecting the first direction, and the support post further includes a fifth support post located in the corner region between the first edge and the second edge, wherein the dimension of the fifth support post in the first direction is smaller than the dimension of the first support post in the first direction.

[0027] Optionally, between the center of the privacy panel and the second edge, the first region includes a third sub-region and a fourth sub-region, the third sub-region being located between the second edge and the fourth sub-region, the support post further includes a third support post located in the third sub-region, and the dimension of the fifth support post in the second direction is smaller than the dimension of the third support post in the second direction.

[0028] Optionally, the dimension of the fifth support column in the first direction is equal to the dimension of the second support column in the first direction, and / or the dimension of the fifth support column in the second direction is equal to the dimension of the second support column in the second direction.

[0029] Optionally, the privacy panel further includes:

[0030] A sealing layer is located between the substrate and the cover plate, the sealing layer surrounding the electrophoretic solution.

[0031] Optionally, the privacy panel further includes a sixth support post, which overlaps with the sealing layer in the thickness direction of the privacy panel.

[0032] Optionally, the sixth support column is a ring structure.

[0033] Optionally, the dimension of the sealing layer along the thickness direction of the privacy panel is consistent with the distance between the cover plate and the substrate.

[0034] Optionally, the privacy panel includes a first electrode, which is at least partially located in the gap between the second support pillars, and the first electrode is not disposed in the gap between the first support pillars.

[0035] This application provides a display module, including:

[0036] Display panel, including subpixels;

[0037] The privacy panel mentioned above;

[0038] The display panel and the privacy panel are stacked together, with the privacy panel located on the light-emitting side of the display panel. Along the stacking direction of the display panel and the privacy panel, the support column overlaps with the sub-pixel.

[0039] Optionally, one of the first support pillars overlaps with multiple sub-pixels.

[0040] Optionally, the sub-pixel includes a first sub-pixel and a second sub-pixel. Along the direction in which the display panel and the privacy panel are stacked, the first sub-pixel overlaps with the first support post, and the second sub-pixel overlaps with the second support post. The area of ​​the first sub-pixel is larger than the area of ​​the second sub-pixel.

[0041] Optionally, sub-pixels overlapping with the first support column are not displayed in privacy mode.

[0042] This application provides a display device, characterized in that it includes the aforementioned display module.

[0043] This application provides a privacy panel, a display module, and a display device. The privacy panel includes a substrate and a cover plate disposed opposite to each other. The substrate has a first region, and a first electrode is disposed between the first regions. It also includes a support pillar between the substrate and the cover plate, located in the first region. Furthermore, it includes an electrophoretic liquid located between the substrate and the cover plate. The privacy panel includes a first edge extending along a first direction. Between the center of the privacy panel and the first edge, the first region includes a first sub-region and a second sub-region, located between the first edge and the second sub-region. The support pillar includes a first support pillar and a second support pillar, located in the first sub-region and the second support pillar in the second sub-region. The dimension of the first support pillar in the first direction is larger than the dimension of the second support pillar in the first direction. This increases the density of the support pillars on the first edge side in the first direction, constructing a denser physical barrier, improving the diffusion resistance of the electrophoretic liquid on the first edge side, reducing the available channels for the electrophoretic liquid to migrate outward, and preventing the electrophoretic liquid from accumulating at the first edge. While ensuring the privacy function, it alleviates the puncture problem and in-plane unevenness problem of the electrophoretic liquid at the first edge, facilitating a narrow bezel design. Attached Figure Description

[0044] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0045] Figure 1 This illustration shows a schematic diagram of the structure of a privacy panel provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 2 A top view schematic diagram of a privacy panel provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figures 3-10 A schematic diagram illustrating the layout of various support columns provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0048] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of another privacy panel provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 12A and Figure 12B This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the display module provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0050] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of another display module provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0052] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the planar structure of a display device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0053] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present application, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0054] Many specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a full understanding of this application. However, this application may also be implemented in other ways different from those described herein. Those skilled in the art can make similar extensions without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0055] This application is described in detail with reference to the schematic diagrams. When detailing the embodiments of this application, for ease of explanation, the cross-sectional views illustrating the device structure may be partially enlarged, not according to the usual scale. Furthermore, the schematic diagrams are merely examples and should not limit the scope of protection of this application. In actual fabrication, the three-dimensional spatial dimensions of length, width, and depth should be included.

[0056] To better understand the technical solution and effects of this application, the specific embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0057] See Figure 1 The figure is a schematic diagram of the structure of a privacy panel provided in an embodiment of this application. The privacy panel includes a substrate 100 and a cover plate 200 disposed opposite to each other.

[0058] Specifically, substrate 100 is typically an array substrate 100, used to carry electrodes and driving circuits 130, such as a first electrode for controlling the privacy mode. The first electrode may be covered with a thin film encapsulation (TFE) layer 140. Cover plate 200 is typically a facing substrate, used for protection and encapsulation. Both substrate 100 and cover plate 200 are made of light-transmitting materials to ensure good light transmittance of the entire panel. The material of substrate 100 can be glass or plastic, such as poly(ethylene terephthalate), polyethylene naphthalate, polyaramid, polyimide, polycyclic olefin, polycarbonate, and polymethyl methacrylate, etc.; the material of cover plate 200 can also be glass or the aforementioned light-transmitting plastics.

[0059] The substrate 100 has a first region, and a first electrode is provided between the first regions. The first region refers to a specific area on the surface of the substrate 100 for setting support pillars. The first electrode is a conductive structure used to drive the movement of charged particles in the electrophoretic solution 120. By applying a voltage, the distribution of particles in the electrophoretic solution 120 is controlled, thereby realizing the switching between the privacy mode and the sharing mode. The first electrode can be made of a transparent conductive material, such as indium tin oxide, antimony tin oxide, fluorine-doped tin oxide, and aluminum-doped zinc oxide, etc., to ensure that light can pass through the electrode area smoothly. Among them, the indium tin oxide film has both good conductivity and light transmittance.

[0060] The privacy panel also includes pillars 110 between the substrate 100 and the cover plate 200, with the pillars 110 located in the first region. The pillars 110 are columnar structures disposed between the substrate 100 and the cover plate 200, used to maintain the distance between the substrate 100 and the cover plate 200 (i.e., the thickness of the enclosure) and provide mechanical support. Since the pillars 110 are located in the first region, a first electrode is disposed between the pillars 110. The pillars 110 may also be made of a transparent material, such as a transparent photocurable resin or a transparent insulating material, so that light at the corresponding viewing angle can pass through the pillars 110.

[0061] The privacy panel also includes an electrophoretic liquid 120 located between the substrate 100 and the cover plate 200. The electrophoretic liquid 120 may include a transparent dispersion medium and charged electrophoretic particles dispersed in the transparent dispersion medium. The transparent dispersion medium provides a suspension and movement medium for the electrophoretic particles, which may be black particles. Under the action of an electric field, the electrophoretic particles can migrate in the electrophoretic liquid 120 to change the distribution state of the electrophoretic particles relative to the first electrode. Optionally, in privacy mode, the electrophoretic particles may be dispersed in the electrophoretic liquid 120 between the support pillars 110 to absorb light emitted from a wide viewing angle; in sharing mode, the electrophoretic particles may gather near the first electrode under the action of the first electrode, allowing light emitted from a wide viewing angle to pass through. As an example, the electrophoretic particles may be positively charged black resin particles, metal hydroxide particles, metal oxide particles, or negatively charged black non-metallic oxide particles or non-metallic sulfide particles.

[0062] refer to Figure 2 The diagram shown is a top view of a privacy panel according to an embodiment of this application. The electrophoretic liquid 120 diffuses from the center to the edge between the substrate 100 and the cover plate 200, in the direction indicated by the arrows. After the electrophoretic liquid 120 diffuses to the edge, it compresses the sealing layer 150 surrounding it, causing the sealing layer 150 to experience localized high pressure, potentially leading to punctures. As referred to herein, edge puncture refers to the phenomenon where the electrophoretic liquid 120 diffuses or accumulates at the edge, causing the sealing layer 150 to experience localized high pressure, and possibly migrating outwards. This phenomenon reduces the sealing reliability of the sealing layer 150 against the electrophoretic liquid 120, and in severe cases, may cause leakage of the electrophoretic liquid 120 to the outside of the privacy panel.

[0063] refer to Figure 3 The diagram shows a layout of a support column provided in an embodiment of this application. The first direction is the y-direction. The privacy panel includes a first edge 1001 extending along the first direction, which is parallel to the direction in which the first edge 1001 extends. The first edge 1001 is the outer boundary of the panel extending along the first direction. Between the center of the privacy panel and the first edge 1001, a first region includes a first sub-region 1A and a second sub-region 1B. The first sub-region 1A is located between the first edge 1001 and the second sub-region 1B. The first sub-region 1A and the second sub-region 1B are two continuous regions divided within the first region along the direction from the center of the panel to the first edge 1001. The first sub-region 1A is closer to the outer side of the panel, and the second sub-region 1B is relatively closer to the center of the panel.

[0064] The support column 110 includes a first support column 11 and a second support column 12. The first support column 11 is located in the first sub-region 1A, and the second support column 12 is located in the second sub-region 1B. The dimension (d1) of the first support column 11 in the first direction (y direction) is greater than the dimension (d2) of the second support column 12 in the first direction. The dimension refers to the width of the support column in the first direction.

[0065] This increases the density of the support pillars on the first edge 1001 side in the first direction to construct a denser physical barrier, improves the diffusion resistance of the electrophoretic fluid 120 on the first edge 1001 side, reduces the available channels for the electrophoretic fluid 120 to migrate outward, and prevents the electrophoretic fluid 120 from accumulating on the first edge 1001. While ensuring the privacy function, it alleviates the puncture problem and in-plane unevenness problem of the electrophoretic fluid 120 at the first edge 1001, which is conducive to achieving a narrow bezel design.

[0066] Alternatively, in another optional embodiment provided in this application, reference is made to... Figure 4 As shown, this is a schematic diagram of another support column layout provided in an embodiment of this application. The first support column 11 includes a first sub-support column 111 and a second sub-support column arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction. The second sub-support column is located between the first sub-support column 111 and the second support column 12.

[0067] Specifically, the arrangement refers to the sequential arrangement of multiple sub-support columns in a second direction, which is the direction intersecting with the first direction, such as the direction perpendicular to the first edge 1001 (x direction). The first sub-support column 111 is closer to the first edge 1001 than the second sub-support column, and the second sub-support column is located between the first sub-support column 111 and the second support column 12 in the inner region. The three columns are arranged sequentially from the first edge 1001 to the center of the panel along the second direction as the first sub-support column 111, the second sub-support column, and the second support column 12, forming a gradient transition in the position of the support columns from the edge to the inside, constituting multiple rows of relatively wide support columns from the edge to the inside.

[0068] In addition to the first sub-support column 111 and the second sub-support column, the first support column 11 may also include other sub-support columns, such that the first support column 11 includes M layers in the direction perpendicular to the first edge 1001, where M is a natural number greater than or equal to 2.

[0069] In this embodiment, a method is provided to segment and refine the first support column 11 to optimize the barrier distribution structure. By splitting the originally single first support column 11 into a first sub-support column 111 and a second sub-support column 112 arranged sequentially along the second direction, multiple sequentially acting support layers are formed along the path of the electrophoretic liquid 120 diffusing from the center of the panel to the first edge 1001. This forces the electrophoretic liquid 120 to pass through multiple support structures before reaching the first edge 1001, thereby increasing the resistance to the diffusion of the electrophoretic liquid 120 to the first edge 1001, reducing the amount of electrophoretic liquid 120 reaching the vicinity of the sealing layer 150, and thus alleviating the edge puncture problem caused by the compression of the sealing layer 150. At the same time, the multi-layer support structure allows the diffusion resistance in the edge region to be set in layers, which is beneficial to improving the uniformity of the distribution of the electrophoretic liquid 120 in the edge region.

[0070] Optionally, in another optional embodiment provided by this application, the dimension (d3) of the first sub-support column 111 in the first direction (y direction) is greater than the dimension (d4) of the second sub-support column 112 in the first direction, as shown in the reference. Figure 4 As shown. Specifically, the dimension in the first direction (y-direction) refers to the width of the support column or sub-support column along the first direction, i.e., the direction parallel to the first edge 1001. The first sub-support column 111 is located closer to the first edge 1001 in the first sub-region, and the second sub-support column 112 is located relatively closer to the inside in the first sub-region. The two have different widths in the first direction.

[0071] In this embodiment, by making the first sub-support post 111 closest to the first edge 1001 larger in the first direction, while the second sub-support post 112 on the inner side has a relatively smaller size in the first direction, the size of the support posts gradually decreases from the first edge 1001 towards the center of the panel. The support post closer to the first edge 1001 occupies a larger area, thus creating greater resistance to the diffusion of the electrophoretic liquid 120 towards the first edge 1001. This provides stronger obstruction when the electrophoretic liquid 120 is closer to the sealing layer 150, reducing the accumulation of the electrophoretic liquid 120 at the first edge 1001 and the compression of the sealing layer 150, thereby better alleviating the frame puncture problem. At the same time, the smaller inner sub-support post provides appropriate adjustment space for the electrophoretic liquid 120, reducing excessive restriction on the diffusion of the electrophoretic liquid 120 inside the panel, which is beneficial for balancing the diffusion degree between the edge area and the inner area.

[0072] Optionally, in another optional embodiment provided in this application, along a second direction (x-direction) intersecting the first direction, the gap between adjacent first sub-support columns 111 overlaps with the second sub-support column 112, as shown in the reference. Figure 4As shown. Specifically, the gap refers to the interval between two adjacent first sub-support columns 111 arranged along the first direction, and the overlap refers to the fact that, in the second direction, the projection of this gap area onto the second sub-support column 112 along the second direction at least partially overlaps with the solid area of ​​the second sub-support column 112. This staggered arrangement results in the support columns in the edge region forming an interlocking layout.

[0073] As an example, the gap between two adjacent first sub-support columns 111 falls exactly within the solid coverage area of ​​the second sub-support column 112 in the projection direction, forming a tight overlapping relationship.

[0074] In this embodiment, a method is provided to eliminate straight leakage channels by staggered overlapping arrangement. By covering the gap area between the first sub-support columns 111 near the first edge 1001 with the inner second sub-support columns 112 in the projection direction, possible through gaps are effectively blocked, eliminating the potential path of electrophoretic liquid 120 seeping out in a straight line along the second direction, and improving the continuity and integrity of the barrier.

[0075] Optionally, in another optional embodiment provided by the present application, a first sub-support column 111 overlaps with N1 second support columns 12 and the interval between N1 second support columns 12 in the second direction, and a second sub-support column 112 overlaps with N2 second support columns 12 and the interval between N2 second support columns 12 in the second direction, where N1 and N2 are positive integers, and N1 is greater than N2.

[0076] Specifically, overlap refers to the situation where, when viewed along the second direction, the horizontal projection of the outer sub-support column covers the solid bodies of multiple inner second support columns 12 and the gaps between them. N1 and N2 represent the number of covered second support columns 12, respectively. N1 being greater than N2 means that the coverage area of ​​the first sub-support column 111 in the second direction is greater than the coverage area of ​​the second sub-support column 112.

[0077] As an example, see reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, N1 can be 3, meaning that one first sub-support column 111 covers three second support columns 12 and two intervals in between, and its size is the sum of the size of the three second support columns 12 (3*d2) and the size of the two intervals (2*d7); in other examples, N2 can be 2, meaning that one second sub-support column 112 covers two second support columns 12 and one interval in between, and its size is the sum of the size of the two second support columns 12 (2*d2) and the size of the one interval (d7).

[0078] In this embodiment, a method for constructing a multi-layer barrier by differentiating coverage areas is provided. Since the first sub-support column 111 covers more of the second support column 12 and the interval area than the second sub-support column 112, the outermost barrier has a significantly larger shielding range in the second direction than the inner layer. This design gives the physical barrier in the edge region a gradient characteristic of being wider at the outside and narrower at the inside, which can effectively increase the path length of the electrophoretic liquid 120 in the lateral diffusion of the edge region and the number of barrier layers it needs to traverse, thereby improving the protective depth of the barrier.

[0079] Optionally, in another optional embodiment provided by this application, along the second direction (x direction), a first sub-support column 111 and a second sub-support column 112 both overlap with N3 second support columns 12 and the interval between the N3 second support columns 12, where N3 is a positive integer. All N3 second support columns 12 overlap with the first sub-support columns 111, and / or, at least one of the N3 second support columns 12 includes a portion that does not overlap with the second sub-support column 112.

[0080] Specifically, overlap and non-overlap refer to the coincidence relationship between the projection of the outer sub-support column and the entity of the inner second support column 12 when viewed along the second direction. The first sub-support column 111 completely overlaps with N3 second support columns 12, that is, it covers the entire width of these second support columns 12; while the second sub-support column 112 only partially overlaps with at least one second support column 12, that is, there is an uncovered exposed portion.

[0081] Of course, the first sub-support column can also overlap with the interval area other than the N3 second support columns, and the second sub-support column can also overlap with the interval area other than the N3 second support columns. The size of the interval area that overlaps with the first sub-support column in the first direction is larger than the size of the interval area that overlaps with the second sub-support column in the first direction.

[0082] In other words, Figure 4 Based on this, the first sub-support column 111 can be extended or shortened in the y-direction, and the second sub-support column 112 can also be extended or shortened in the y-direction. In this way, the first sub-support column 111 and the second sub-support column 112, while overlapping the same number of second support columns 12, have different widths due to different degrees of coverage of the second support columns 12 or different degrees of coverage of the interval area outside the second support columns 12.

[0083] As an example, N3 is 2, the first sub-support column 111 completely covers the entire width of the two second support columns 12 and their interval area; while the second sub-support column 112 only covers half of the width of each of the two second support columns 12, and the other half is exposed.

[0084] In this embodiment, a differentiated barrier method combining full outer coverage and partial inner coverage is provided. The first sub-support column 111 completely overlaps with all corresponding second support columns 12, ensuring the continuity and integrity of the outermost barrier; the second sub-support column 112 only partially overlaps with some of the second support columns 12, forming an incompletely shielded area. This design results in differences in the degree of shielding between the support columns from the first edge 1001 towards the center of the panel, providing a differentiated flow resistance distribution for the electrophoretic fluid 120 while maintaining high-density edge protection.

[0085] Optionally, refer to Figure 5 The diagram shows another layout of a support column provided in this application embodiment. The first support column 11 includes a third sub-support column 113 and a fourth sub-support column 114 arranged along the first direction (y direction). Along the direction from the center of the privacy panel to the edge and parallel to the first direction, the third sub-support column 113 is located between the fourth sub-support column 114 and the second edge 1002. The second edge 1002 intersects with the first edge 1001. The dimension (d5) of the third sub-support column 113 in the first direction is smaller than the dimension (d6) of the fourth sub-support column 114 in the first direction.

[0086] Specifically, the second edge 1002 is another edge on the panel extending along the second direction, intersecting the first edge 1001 at the corner area of ​​the panel. The sealing layer on the side of the second edge 1002 is not the focus of the description, so it is not shown in the figure. The support column on the side of the second edge 1002 can be a second support column, or there can be other settings, please refer to the following description.

[0087] In practice, the diffusion degree of the electrophoretic fluid at different edge positions of the privacy panel may vary, and correspondingly, the risk of frame puncture at different edge positions may also differ. For example, the electrophoretic fluid 120 has a stronger diffusion ability at the straight edge of the privacy panel, thus the frame puncture problem is more prominent, and the diffusion ability at the center position of the straight edge is relatively stronger. Therefore, support pillars of different sizes or densities can be set at different positions of the first edge 1001. Specifically, the third sub-support pillar 113 and the fourth sub-support pillar 114 are arranged along the first direction, with the third sub-support pillar 113 closer to the second edge, i.e., closer to the corner, and the fourth sub-support pillar 114 further away from the second edge 1002 and closer to the center position of the first edge 1001. The size difference between the two in the first direction means that the width of the sub-support pillar in the corner area is smaller.

[0088] In this embodiment, a method for differentially adjusting the support columns along the edge length direction is provided. Since the edge center often has a greater risk of puncture, a higher support column density at the edge center position is beneficial for specifically increasing the diffusion resistance of the electrophoretic fluid 120 at the center position of the first edge 1001, and reducing the available channels for the electrophoretic fluid 120 to migrate outward.

[0089] Optionally, refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, this is a schematic diagram of another support column layout provided in an embodiment of this application. The dimension (c1) of the first support column 11 in the second direction (x direction) can be greater than the dimension (c2) of the second support column 12 in the second direction.

[0090] Optional, see reference Figure 7 As shown, the first support column 11 includes a fifth sub-support column 115 and a sixth sub-support column 116 arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction. The sixth sub-support column 116 is located between the fifth sub-support column 115 and the second support column 12. The dimension (c3) of the fifth sub-support column 115 in the second direction is greater than the dimension (c4) of the sixth sub-support column 116 in the second direction.

[0091] Specifically, the dimension in the second direction refers to the width of the support column or sub-support column along the second direction, i.e., from the edge of the panel towards the center, which can also be understood as the thickness of the support column in the depth direction. The fifth sub-support column 115 is closer to the first edge 1001, and the sixth sub-support column 116 is located inside the fifth sub-support column 115. The two have different widths in the second direction.

[0092] In this embodiment, a method is provided to increase the size of the outer sub-support column in the depth direction to strengthen the barrier thickness. By making the fifth sub-support column 115 closest to the first edge 1001 have a larger size in the second direction, it is equivalent to thickening the depth of the outermost barrier in the outflow path of the electrophoretic fluid 120, increasing the barrier distance that the electrophoretic fluid 120 needs to cross, and improving the impermeability of the edge region.

[0093] Optionally, in another optional embodiment provided by this application, the second support columns 12 include a gap area, the dimension (c3) of a fifth sub-support column 115 in the second direction is less than or equal to the sum of the dimensions (N4*c2) of N4 second support columns 12 in the second direction and the dimensions (N4*c5) of N4 gap areas in the second direction, and the dimension (c3) of a fifth sub-support column 115 in the second direction is greater than the dimensions (N4*c2) of N4 second support columns 12 in the second direction, where N4 is a positive integer.

[0094] Specifically, the gap area refers to the empty area between adjacent second support columns 12 arranged along the second direction. This definition indicates that the dimension of the fifth sub-support column 115 in the second direction is greater than N4 second support columns (N4*c2) and less than or equal to N4 second support columns + N4 gap areas (N4*c2 + N4*c5). That is, the dimension of a fifth support column 115 in the second direction is such that it can cover N4 second support columns and part or all of the gap areas in the N4 gap areas; or it can cover less than N4 second support columns, overlapping with some of the gap areas between the support columns.

[0095] When N4 is 1, the dimension of the fifth sub-support column 115 in the second direction is greater than the dimension of one second support column in the second direction (c2, which completely covers one second support column), and less than or equal to the sum of the dimensions of one second support column and one interval zone in the second direction (c2+c5, which completely covers one second support column and one interval zone). Therefore, the fifth sub-support column 115 can overlap with an adjacent interval zone at least partially, in addition to overlapping with one second support column 12 in the second direction. When N4 is 1 and the fifth sub-support column 115 and one second support column 12 are arranged in accordance with... Figure 7 In the case of the configuration shown, the fifth sub-support column 115 can also overlap with the adjacent interval area at least partially. For example, its size can be 1.2 times the size of the second support column 12 (i.e., 1.2*c2), so that the fifth sub-support column 115 overlaps with a part of the adjacent interval area in addition to overlapping with the second support column 12. At this time, the size of the interval area covered is 0.2 times the size of the second support column.

[0096] When there are multiple N4, the fifth sub-support column 115 can completely cover the multiple second support columns and the interval area between the multiple second support columns, or it can not completely cover the multiple second support columns (the outer support columns of the N4 second support columns may not be completely covered), and cover the interval area between the multiple second support columns, for example, cover two second support columns and one interval area between them, or completely cover one of the second support columns and 80% of the area of ​​another support column, and one interval area between the two support columns.

[0097] In this embodiment, a method is provided to precisely control the coverage area of ​​the outer support pillars to balance obstruction and drainage. With the appropriate arrangement, the fifth sub-support pillar can overlap with the corresponding second support pillar and at least part of the interval area, increasing the flow resistance of the electrophoretic fluid along the first edge direction at the first edge position and reducing the possibility of edge puncture; at the same time, only part of the interval area is covered, leaving a small amount of detour space for the electrophoretic fluid 120, avoiding the local pressure anomalies that might result from complete sealing.

[0098] Optionally, in another optional embodiment provided by this application, the dimension (c4) of a sixth sub-support column 116 in the second direction is greater than or equal to the dimension (N4*c2) of N4 second support columns 12 in the second direction.

[0099] Specifically, the sixth sub-support column 116 is located inside the fifth sub-support column 115, and its width is at least equal to the sum of the widths of N4 second support columns 12 (N4*c2). N4 is the same parameter as the aforementioned N4, representing the number of second support columns 12 corresponding to the sixth sub-support column 116.

[0100] When N4 is 1, if the dimension of the sixth sub-support column 116 in the second direction is equal to the dimension of the second support column 12 in the second direction, the sixth sub-support column 116 can correspond to the second support column 12 in the second direction without overlapping with adjacent intervals. When the dimension of the sixth sub-support column 116 in the second direction is greater than the dimension of the second support column 12 in the second direction, it can overlap with adjacent intervals at least partially, in addition to overlapping with the second support column 12. For example, the dimension of the sixth sub-support column 116 in the second direction can be 1.1 times the dimension of the second support column 12 in the second direction (i.e., 1.1*c2). Combined with the fact that the dimension of the fifth sub-support column 115 in the second direction is greater than the dimension of the sixth sub-support column 116 in the second direction, the fifth sub-support column 115 can have a larger overlap range with the intervals relative to the sixth sub-support column 116.

[0101] When there are multiple N4 sub-support columns, the dimension of the sixth sub-support column 116 in the second direction is at least equal to the sum of the dimensions of the N4 second support columns 12 in the second direction. The specific overlap relationship between the sixth sub-support column 116 and each of the second support columns 12, as well as the spacer regions, can be set according to the relative positions of the sixth sub-support column 116 and the second support columns 12. When the dimension of the sixth sub-support column 116 in the second direction is greater than the sum of the dimensions of the N4 second support columns 12 in the second direction, compared to the case where the dimension is equal to the sum of the dimensions, the sixth sub-support column 116 has a larger range to overlap with the spacer regions between or adjacent to the second support columns 12, thereby increasing the diffusion resistance of this layer to the electrophoretic solution 120.

[0102] Specifically, the sixth sub-support column 116 can completely cover the multiple second support columns and the interval area between the multiple second support columns, or it can not completely cover the multiple second support columns but cover the interval area between the multiple second support columns, for example, covering two second support columns and one interval area between them, or completely covering one of the second support columns and covering 70% of the area of ​​another support column and one interval area between the two support columns.

[0103] In this embodiment, by setting the size of the sixth sub-support post 116 in the second direction to be greater than or equal to the sum of the sizes of N4 second support posts 12 in the second direction, the sixth sub-support post 116 can form an intermediate barrier layer located between the fifth sub-support post 115 and the second support posts 12. When the size of the sixth sub-support post 116 is equal to the sum of the corresponding sizes and is arranged accordingly, its overlap with the spacer area can be reduced; when the size of the sixth sub-support post 116 is further increased, its overlap range with the spacer area can be increased, and the difficulty for the electrophoretic liquid 120 to pass through this layer can be increased. Combined with the fact that the size of the fifth sub-support post 115 is greater than the size of the sixth support post 116, a multi-layer structure with gradually changing resistance from the outside to the inside can be formed, thereby forming a stronger barrier near the first edge 1001 and further alleviating the edge puncture problem.

[0104] Optionally, in another optional embodiment provided by this application, a fifth sub-support column 115 overlaps with N5 second support columns 12 and the interval between N5 second support columns 12 in the first direction, and a sixth sub-support column 116 overlaps with N6 second support columns 12 in the first direction, where N5 and N6 are positive integers and N5 is greater than N6.

[0105] Specifically, overlap in the first direction means that, when viewed along the first direction, the projection of the outer sub-support column covers the range of the multiple inner second support columns 12 and their intervals. N5 and N6 represent the number of second support columns 12 covered respectively. N5 being greater than N6 means that the coverage area of ​​the fifth sub-support column 115 in the first direction is greater than that of the sixth sub-support column 116.

[0106] As an example, N5 is 4, meaning the fifth sub-support column 115 covers 4 second support columns 12 and the 3 intervals between them; N6 is 2, meaning the sixth sub-support column 116 covers 2 second support columns 12.

[0107] In this embodiment, an outer support column is provided to expand its coverage in the first direction to enhance longitudinal protection. Since the fifth sub-support column 115 covers more of the second support column 12 and the interval area than the sixth sub-support column 116, the shielding range of the outermost barrier in the first direction is significantly increased, effectively widening the barrier band width in the first direction of the edge area and improving the longitudinal protection capability of the barrier.

[0108] Optionally, refer to Figure 8The diagram shows a layout of another support column provided in an embodiment of this application. The privacy panel includes a second edge 1002 extending along a second direction (x direction) intersecting with the first direction. Between the center of the privacy panel and the second edge 1002, the first region includes a third sub-region 1C and a fourth sub-region 1D. The third sub-region 1C is located between the second edge 1002 and the fourth sub-region 1D. The support column also includes a third support column 13 and a fourth support column 14. The third support column 13 is located in the third sub-region 1C, and the fourth support column 14 is located in the fourth sub-region 1D. The dimension (e1) of the third support column 13 in the second direction is greater than the dimension (e2) of the fourth support column 14 in the second direction.

[0109] Specifically, the second edge 1002 is another edge on the panel that intersects with the first edge 1001, extending along the second direction. The third sub-region 1C is closer to the second edge 1002, and the fourth sub-region 1D is closer to the center of the panel. The third support pillar 13 is located in the third sub-region 1C, and the fourth support pillar 14 is located in the fourth sub-region 1D. The third support pillar 13 is larger in size in the second direction. The dimensions of the second support pillar 12 and the fourth support pillar 14 can be the same or different.

[0110] In this embodiment, an edge support column reinforcement scheme is symmetrically applied to the second edge 1002. By adopting a layout where the outer support column is larger than the inner support column in the direction of the second edge 1002, a higher density physical barrier is constructed at the second edge 1002, achieving comprehensive protection for the two intersecting edges of the panel and avoiding unidirectional weakness in edge protection.

[0111] Optionally, refer to Figure 9 As shown, this is a schematic diagram of the layout of another support column provided in an embodiment of this application. The third support column 13 includes a seventh sub-support column 131 and an eighth sub-support column 132 arranged along the first direction. The eighth sub-support column 132 is located between the seventh sub-support column 131 and the fourth support column 14. The dimension (e3) of the seventh sub-support column 131 in the second direction is greater than the dimension (e4) of the eighth sub-support column 132 in the second direction.

[0112] Specifically, the seventh sub-support column 131 is closer to the outer side of the second edge 1002, while the eighth sub-support column 132 is located inside the seventh sub-support column 131, closer to the fourth support column 14. The two differ in size in the second direction, with the seventh sub-support column 131 being wider in that direction.

[0113] In addition to the seventh sub-support column 131 and the eighth sub-support column 132, the third support column 13 may also include other sub-support columns, such that the third support column 13 includes L layers in the direction perpendicular to the second edge 1002, where L is a natural number greater than or equal to 2.

[0114] In this embodiment, a method is provided to optimize the gradient barrier by segmenting the third support column 13 in the direction of the second edge 1002. By setting a seventh sub-support column 131 with a larger size in the second direction on the outer side of the second edge 1002, a high-density barrier is directly constructed at the second edge 1002, while the eighth sub-support column 132 on the inner side is slightly smaller. This results in a gradual decrease in barrier density from the second edge 1002 towards the center of the panel, improving the smoothness of the protection.

[0115] Alternatively, in another optional embodiment provided in this application, reference is made to... Figure 9 As shown, along the first direction, the gap between adjacent seventh sub-support columns 131 overlaps with the eighth sub-support column 132. Specifically, the gap is the interval between two adjacent seventh sub-support columns 131 in the first direction, and the overlap means that the gap at least partially coincides with the solid area of ​​the eighth sub-support column 132 in the projection direction, forming a staggered and interlocking arrangement.

[0116] As an example, the gap between two adjacent seventh sub-support columns 131 falls within the solid coverage area of ​​the eighth sub-support column 132 in a direction perpendicular to the panel.

[0117] In this embodiment, a staggered and overlapping arrangement is provided in the direction of the second edge 1002 to eliminate straight leakage channels. By covering the gap area between the seventh sub-support columns 131 near the second edge 1002 with the inner eighth sub-support column 132 in the projection direction, the straight path of seepage from the first direction to the second edge 1002 is effectively blocked, eliminating possible through gaps and improving the continuity of the barrier in the direction of the second edge 1002.

[0118] Optionally, in another optional embodiment provided by this application, the third support column 13 includes a ninth sub-support column and a tenth sub-support column arranged along the second direction. Along the direction from the center of the privacy panel to the edge and parallel to the second direction, the ninth sub-support column is located between the tenth sub-support column and the first edge 1001. The dimension of the ninth sub-support column in the second direction is smaller than that of the tenth sub-support column in the second direction. The arrangement of the ninth and tenth sub-support columns is similar to... Figure 5 The configuration of the third and fourth sub-support columns is not illustrated here.

[0119] Specifically, the ninth sub-support column is closer to the first edge 1001 of the panel, i.e., in the corner direction, while the tenth sub-support column is relatively farther away from the first edge 1001. They differ in size in the second direction; the width of the ninth sub-support column in the second direction is smaller than that of the tenth sub-support column.

[0120] In this embodiment, a method is provided to reduce the size of the support pillars in the corner region of the second edge 1002 to avoid excessive local obstruction. Since the edge center often has a greater risk of puncture, a higher support pillar density at the edge center position is beneficial to specifically increase the diffusion resistance of the electrophoretic fluid 120 at the center position of the second edge 1002, and reduce the available channels for the electrophoretic fluid 120 to migrate outward.

[0121] Optionally, in another optional embodiment provided by this application, the dimension of the third support column 13 in the first direction is larger than the dimension of the fourth support column 14 in the first direction. Specifically, the third support column 13 includes an eleventh sub-support column and a twelfth sub-support column arranged along the second direction. The twelfth sub-support column is located between the eleventh sub-support column and the fourth support column 14. The dimension of the eleventh sub-support column in the first direction is larger than the dimension of the twelfth sub-support column in the first direction. The arrangement of the eleventh and twelfth sub-support columns is similar to... Figure 7 The fifth and sixth sub-support columns are not illustrated here.

[0122] Specifically, the eleventh sub-support column is closer to the outer side of the second edge 1002, while the twelfth sub-support column is located inside the eleventh sub-support column, closer to the fourth support column 14. The two differ in size in the first direction, with the eleventh sub-support column being wider in the first direction.

[0123] In this embodiment, a method is provided to enhance the cross-directional barrier by increasing the size of the outer support column in the direction of the second edge 1002 in the first direction. By making the eleventh sub-support column closest to the second edge 1002 larger in the first direction, the gap between the support columns in the first direction is reduced, the resistance to the outward diffusion of the electrophoretic liquid 120 along the second direction is increased, and the protective strength of the second edge 1002 is strengthened.

[0124] Optionally, refer to Figure 10 The diagram shows a layout of another support column provided in an embodiment of this application. The privacy panel includes a second edge 1002 extending along a second direction (x direction) intersecting with the first direction. The support column also includes a fifth support column 15 located in the corner region 1E between the first edge 1001 and the second edge 1002. The dimension d8 of the fifth support column 15 in the first direction is smaller than the dimension d1 of the first support column 11 in the first direction.

[0125] Specifically, the corner region 1E refers to the corner area where the first edge 1001 and the second edge 1002 intersect. The stress state and flow characteristics of the electrophoretic liquid 120 in this region are different from those in the straight edge region. The fifth support column 15 is located in the corner region 1E, and its dimension d8 in the first direction is smaller than that of the first support column 11 in the first direction. This means that the support columns on the longer side have the highest density in the first direction, while the support columns at the corner have a lower density in the first direction.

[0126] In this embodiment, a method is provided to reduce the size of the support column in the corner area to avoid excessive local obstruction. Since the corner area is constrained by the edges in two directions at the same time, the electrophoretic liquid 120 tends to accumulate here. By making the size of the fifth support column 15 in the corner area smaller than that of the first support column 11 in the first direction, the barrier density at the corner is appropriately reduced, providing space for the electrophoretic liquid 120 to be channeled and buffered at the corner, thereby improving the fluidity of the electrophoretic liquid 120 in the corner area.

[0127] Optionally, in another optional embodiment provided by this application, between the center of the privacy panel and the second edge 1002, the first region includes a third sub-region 1C and a fourth sub-region 1D. The third sub-region 1C is located between the second edge 1002 and the fourth sub-region 1D. The support column also includes a third support column 13, which is located in the third sub-region 1C. The fifth support column 15 has a smaller dimension in the second direction than the third support column 13 in the second direction.

[0128] Specifically, the third support column 13 is located in the third sub-region 1C of the straight area of ​​the second edge 1002, and the fifth support column 15 is located in the corner region 1E. The two have different dimensions in the second direction, with the fifth support column 15 being narrower in the second direction. This means that the support columns on the shorter side have a higher density in the second direction, while the support columns at the corner have a lower density in the second direction.

[0129] Because the electrophoretic fluid diffuses more strongly along the straight edges of the privacy panel and less strongly at the corners, the degree of compression exerted by the electrophoretic fluid on the sealing layer 150 varies at different locations, with the long edge being more prone to frame puncture. Therefore, different support column densities can be set for the long edge, short edge, and corner locations to differentiate the diffusion resistance of the electrophoretic fluid at different locations.

[0130] This arrangement results in the highest density of support pillars along the long side, followed by the short side, and the lowest density at the corners. By adjusting the density of the support pillars at different locations, the diffusion of the electrophoretic liquid 120 can be balanced. Locations with high support pillar density experience greater resistance to the diffusion of the electrophoretic liquid 120, while locations with low density experience less resistance. This differentiated distribution of support pillars at different locations allows for a more uniform diffusion of the electrophoretic liquid 120 across the panel, reduces localized pressure from the electrophoretic liquid 120 on the sealing layer 150, and minimizes punctures to the frame adhesive, thereby achieving an extremely narrow bezel.

[0131] In this embodiment, a method is provided to reduce the size of the support column in both directions in the corner area to comprehensively reduce the corner blocking strength. By simultaneously reducing the size of the support column in the second direction in the corner area, the physical barrier density in the corner area is further relaxed, providing a more sufficient channel for the electrophoretic fluid 120 at the intersection of the two directions, and optimizing the flowability of the electrophoretic fluid 120 in this critical corner area.

[0132] Alternatively, in another optional embodiment provided in this application, reference is made to... Figure 10 As shown, the dimension d8 of the fifth support column 15 in the first direction is equal to the dimension d2 of the second support column 12 in the first direction, and / or the dimension e8 of the fifth support column 15 in the second direction is equal to the dimension c2 of the second support column 12 in the second direction.

[0133] Specifically, this means that the fifth support column 15 in the corner region has the same dimension in the corresponding direction as the second support column 12 in the inner region. In this way, the surface density of the support column is the same at the corner as at the center, which helps to avoid excessive diffusion resistance at the corner and allows the electrophoretic liquid 120 to diffuse more fully.

[0134] In this embodiment, a method is provided to simplify design and manufacturing by setting the dimensions of the corner support column to be consistent with the internal reference column. By making the fifth support column 15 in the corner area the same as the internal second support column 12, the increased complexity of mask design and process control caused by the special corner dimensions are avoided, thereby reducing manufacturing costs and process complexity.

[0135] Alternatively, in another optional embodiment provided in this application, reference is made to... Figure 1 As shown, the privacy panel also includes a seal 150 located between the substrate 100 and the cover plate 200, the seal 150 surrounding the electrophoretic liquid 120.

[0136] Specifically, the sealing layer 150 is an encapsulation structure disposed between the substrate 100 and the cover plate 200, located in the peripheral area of ​​the panel, used to enclose the electrophoretic liquid 120 inside the privacy panel. The sealing layer 150 is typically distributed continuously along the edge of the panel, forming a closed loop to isolate the electrophoretic liquid 120 from the external environment. The sealing layer 150 can also be referred to as sealant, frame sealant, etc.

[0137] The sealing layer 150 material possesses excellent adhesion properties, enabling it to form a strong bond with the surfaces of the substrate 100 and cover plate 200; it can have a low curing temperature, avoiding adverse effects of high temperatures on the performance of the electrophoretic solution 120; it has a moderate coefficient of linear expansion, matching the material of the substrate 100 to reduce thermal stress; and it exhibits good chemical stability, not reacting with the electrophoretic solution 120 and resisting moisture penetration. The sealing layer 150 can be made of epoxy resin, acrylic resin, or UV-cured sealant. Among these, epoxy resin sealants are commonly used for manufacturing panel sealing layers 150 due to their high adhesive strength, low curing shrinkage, and excellent resistance to chemical media.

[0138] In this embodiment, a method is provided to encapsulate the electrophoretic fluid 120 inside a privacy panel using a sealing layer 150. The sealing layer 150, as the outermost encapsulation structure of the electrophoretic fluid 120, confines the electrophoretic fluid 120 inside the privacy panel and, together with the internal support pillar structure, restricts the edge diffusion of the electrophoretic fluid 120, thereby reducing the risk of the electrophoretic fluid 120 migrating to the outside of the sealing layer 150.

[0139] Optionally, refer to Figure 11 As shown, this is a schematic diagram of another privacy panel provided in an embodiment of this application. The privacy panel also includes a sixth support column 16, which overlaps with the sealing layer 150 in the thickness direction of the privacy panel.

[0140] Specifically, the thickness direction refers to the direction perpendicular to the substrate 100 and the cover plate 200, and the overlap means that the projection of the sixth support post 16 in the thickness direction at least partially coincides with the projection of the sealing layer 150. The sixth support post 16 is disposed in or below the area where the sealing layer 150 is located, and is used to provide additional structural support in the sealing area. The sixth support post 16 and the sealing layer 150 are disposed opposite to each other to form a sealing cell.

[0141] The material requirements for the sixth support column 16 are the same as those for the internal support columns. It also needs to be an insulating material with sufficient mechanical strength, such as UV-cured resin or polyimide. Since the sixth support column 16 is located in the sealing layer 150 area, its material must also possess good thermal stability, maintaining dimensional stability during the curing process of the sealing layer 150 without significant thermal expansion or softening deformation, to ensure effective support when the panel is under pressure. The height of the sixth support column 16 is the same as that of the internal support columns, equal to the panel box thickness.

[0142] In this embodiment, a method is provided to enhance the structural rigidity of the sealing area by adding a support column in the sealing layer 150 region. The sixth support column 16 overlaps with the sealing layer 150 in the thickness direction, providing additional support for the substrate 100 and the cover plate 200 in the sealing area, preventing the sealing layer 150 from generating micro-gaps due to pressure deformation, and improving the pressure resistance and structural stability of the sealing area.

[0143] Optionally, in another optional embodiment provided by this application, the sixth support column 16 is a ring-shaped structure. Specifically, a ring-shaped structure means that the sixth support column 16 is distributed in a closed ring or frame shape within the panel plane, extending continuously along the perimeter of the panel to form a complete ring-shaped support band without interruption. As an example, the sixth support column 16 continuously surrounds the panel's four-sided border inside the sealing layer 150, forming a closed-loop support ring.

[0144] In this embodiment, a method of comprehensively reinforcing the sealing area using annular support columns is provided. The sixth annular support column 16 is continuously distributed around the perimeter of the panel, providing uniform and uninterrupted structural support throughout the entire extension of the sealing layer 150. This avoids the weak points that may exist in segmented supports and significantly enhances the compressive strength and deformation resistance of the sealing area.

[0145] Alternatively, in another optional embodiment provided in this application, reference is made to... Figure 1 As shown, the dimension of the sealing layer 150 along the thickness direction of the privacy panel is consistent with the distance between the cover plate 200 and the substrate 100. Specifically, the dimension in the thickness direction refers to the height of the sealing layer 150 in the direction perpendicular to the substrate 100, and the distance between the cover plate 200 and the substrate 100 is the panel's thickness, which is the gap between the upper surface of the substrate 100 and the lower surface of the cover plate 200. The fact that the height of the sealing layer 150 is consistent with the panel's thickness means that the sealing layer 150 is in close contact with the inner surfaces of the substrate 100 and the cover plate 200, completely filling the gap between them. This results in stronger overall puncture resistance, and this design reduces the risk of exposure of the organic pillars.

[0146] In this embodiment, a sealing layer 150 is provided with the same height as the panel box to eliminate leakage gaps. Since the height of the sealing layer 150 is exactly the same as the distance between the substrate 100 and the cover plate 200, the sealing layer 150 can achieve zero-gap tight contact with the inner surfaces of the substrate 100 and the cover plate 200, eliminating the tiny gaps left by insufficient height of the sealing layer 150, which helps to block the path of electrophoretic liquid migrating outward along the edge of the sealing layer and reduces the risk of migration.

[0147] Optionally, in another optional embodiment provided by this application, the privacy panel includes a first electrode, which is at least partially located in the gap area between the second support pillars 12, and the gap area between the first support pillars 11 is not provided with the first electrode.

[0148] Specifically, the gap region refers to the void region between adjacent support pillars. The first electrode is disposed on the substrate 100 to drive the movement of charged particles in the electrophoretic solution 120. In the inner region, i.e., the second sub-region, the gap region between the second support pillars 12 is provided with the first electrode; while in the edge region, i.e., the first sub-region, the gap region between the first support pillars 11 is not provided with the first electrode.

[0149] Of course, the first electrode can also be set in the interval between the first support pillars 11. Retaining this part of the first electrode is beneficial to improving the uniformity of optical performance in the shared mode.

[0150] In this embodiment, an optimized method is provided to avoid electric field interference with the flow of the electrophoretic solution 120 by not placing electrodes in the spacer region between the edge support pillars. Since a high-density physical barrier has already been constructed in the edge region by increasing the size of the first support pillars 11, placing a first electrode in the spacer region could cause the electric field generated by the electrode to attract excessive accumulation of charged particles at the edge. By not placing the first electrode in the spacer region between the first support pillars 11, unnecessary electric field disturbances in the edge region are avoided, allowing the flow of the electrophoretic solution 120 in the edge region to be primarily regulated by the physical barrier, thus reducing the adverse effects of electrochemical factors on edge stability.

[0151] Based on the privacy panel provided in the above embodiments, this application also provides a display module, see reference. Figure 12A and Figure 12BThe diagram shows a schematic of the display module provided in this embodiment. The display module includes a display panel 20A and a privacy panel 10A. The display panel 20A includes sub-pixels 310. The display panel 20A and the privacy panel 10A are stacked together, with the privacy panel 10A located on the light-emitting side of the display panel 20A. Along the stacking direction of the display panel 20A and the privacy panel 10A, the support pillars overlap with the sub-pixels. The support pillars have a light-transmitting structure and are positioned opposite to the sub-pixels 310, allowing the frontal viewing angle light emitted by the sub-pixels 310 to pass through the support pillars and then through the privacy panel 10A. An area for containing electrophoretic fluid 120 is formed between the support pillars, and the area containing the electrophoretic fluid 120 corresponds to the spacing between adjacent sub-pixels 310. By adjusting the distribution of electrophoretic particles in the electrophoretic fluid 120, the wide-viewing angle light emitted by the sub-pixels 310 can be absorbed or allowed to pass through, thereby achieving the switching between privacy mode and sharing mode.

[0152] Specifically, the display module is an integral structure formed by assembling the privacy panel 10A and the display panel 20A. The display panel 20A is a basic component for displaying image information, such as a liquid crystal display panel, an organic light-emitting diode display panel, or a micro light-emitting diode display panel.

[0153] Subpixels are the basic units used to display images in the display panel 20A. Multiple subpixels of different colors achieve color display through combinations of different brightness levels. The display panel 20A also includes a substrate 300 for supporting the subpixels 310. A spacing region 320 may be provided between the subpixels 310. Optionally, a light-shielding layer may be provided in this spacing region 320 to block light from the area between adjacent subpixels 310, thereby reducing crosstalk between adjacent subpixels 310. It should be noted that the height of the light-shielding layer and the subpixels 310 may be the same or different. The spacing region 320 in the attached figure is only used to illustrate the planar positional relationship between adjacent subpixels 310 and is not used to limit the relative size or positional relationship between the light-shielding layer and the subpixels 310 in the thickness direction within the spacing region 320.

[0154] The privacy panel 10A is located on the light-emitting side of the display panel 20A. The display panel 20A and the privacy panel 10A are stacked along the thickness direction, meaning that the light emitted from the display panel 20A passes through the privacy panel 10A and is then emitted outwards. The support pillars 110 in the privacy panel 10A at least partially overlap with the sub-pixels 310 in the display panel 20A. The support pillars 110 can be formed of a light-transmitting material, allowing the frontal viewing angle light emitted from the sub-pixels 310 to pass through the support pillars 110 opposite to the sub-pixels 310 and be emitted outwards, thereby reducing the impact of the support pillars 110 on the frontal viewing angle display. An area for containing the electrophoretic liquid 120 is formed between adjacent support pillars 110. This area can at least partially overlap with the interval area 320 between adjacent sub-pixels 310 along the stacking direction of the display panel 20A and the privacy panel 10A. Thus, the support pillars 110 are mainly positioned corresponding to the sub-pixels 310, while the area containing the electrophoretic liquid 120 is mainly positioned corresponding to the area between adjacent sub-pixels 310.

[0155] In privacy mode, refer to Figure 12A As shown, the black electrophoretic particles in the electrophoretic solution 120 are dispersed in the area between adjacent support pillars 110. The frontal viewing angle light emitted by the sub-pixel 310 can mainly pass through the light-transmitting support pillar 110 opposite to the sub-pixel 310, while the wide viewing angle light emitted by the sub-pixel 310 enters the area of ​​the electrophoretic solution 120 between adjacent support pillars 110 during its lateral propagation, and is absorbed or attenuated by the black electrophoretic particles therein, thereby limiting the light emission in the wide viewing angle direction and achieving the privacy protection effect.

[0156] In shared mode, refer to Figure 12B As shown, the electrophoretic solution includes electrophoretic particles 121 and a transparent dispersion medium 122. The electric field generated by the first electrode drives the black electrophoretic particles 121 to migrate and aggregate near the first electrode, preventing most of the area between adjacent support pillars 110 from being blocked by the dispersed black electrophoretic particles. Therefore, the wide-viewing-angle light emitted by the sub-pixel 310 can be emitted through the area between adjacent support pillars 110, thereby increasing the viewing angle of the display module and achieving shared display.

[0157] Therefore, by setting the light-transmitting support pillar 110 opposite to the sub-pixel 310, and using the electrophoretic liquid 120 between adjacent support pillars 110 to selectively block the wide-viewing-angle light, the switching between the anti-spy mode and the sharing mode can be achieved by controlling the distribution state of the electrophoretic particles while ensuring the normal emission of the positive-viewing-angle light.

[0158] This application provides a display module structure in which a privacy panel 10A and a display panel 20A are stacked, and support pillars overlap with sub-pixels. By overlapping the light-transmitting support pillars with the sub-pixels 310, the forward-viewing angle light emitted by the sub-pixels 310 can pass through the privacy panel 10A through the location of the support pillars; simultaneously, the area of ​​the electrophoretic liquid 120 between the support pillars is used to adjust the transmission state of light with a wide viewing angle. In privacy mode, the black electrophoretic particles in the electrophoretic liquid 120 absorb the light emitted with a wide viewing angle, while the forward-viewing angle light can still be emitted through the light-transmitting support pillars; in sharing mode, the black electrophoretic particles are adsorbed near the first electrode, and the light with a wide viewing angle can pass through. Thus, switching between privacy mode and sharing mode can be achieved while ensuring forward-viewing angle display.

[0159] Optionally, in another optional embodiment provided by this application, a first support pillar 11 overlaps with multiple sub-pixels. Specifically, "multiple" means that in the projection along the stacking direction of the display panel 20A and the privacy panel 10A, the coverage area of ​​a single first support pillar 11 spans multiple sub-pixel regions, that is, the size of the support pillar on the plane is larger than the size of a single sub-pixel, and its projection simultaneously covers two or more adjacent sub-pixels. Multiple sub-pixels include sub-pixels of different colors, such as red, blue, and green pixels, or include multiple different pixel groups, each pixel group including sub-pixels of different colors. The first support pillar 11 is located in the edge region of the privacy panel 10A, and its size in the first direction is larger than that of the second support pillar 12; therefore, the first support pillar 11 can correspond to a larger sub-pixel overlap range.

[0160] In this embodiment, a layout is provided in which a first support pillar 11 overlaps with multiple sub-pixels. Since the first support pillar 11 has a light-transmitting structure, even when it overlaps with multiple sub-pixels 310, the forward viewing angle light of the corresponding sub-pixels 310 can still be emitted through the first support pillar 11. By aligning the larger first support pillar 11 with the multiple sub-pixels 310, the correspondence between the first support pillar 11 and the multiple sub-pixels 310 can be established while satisfying the differentiated size design of the support pillars in the edge area, facilitating the layout matching between the display panel 20A and the privacy panel 10A.

[0161] Alternatively, in another optional embodiment provided in this application, reference is made to... Figure 13 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of another display module provided in an embodiment of this application. The sub-pixels include a first sub-pixel 311 and a second sub-pixel 312. Along the direction of the stacking of the display panel 20A and the privacy panel 10A, the first sub-pixel 311 overlaps with the first support post 11, and the second sub-pixel 312 overlaps with the second support post 12. The area of ​​the first sub-pixel 311 is larger than the area of ​​the second sub-pixel 312.

[0162] Specifically, the first sub-pixel 311 is the sub-pixel in the display panel 20A corresponding to the position of the first support pillar 11, and the second sub-pixel 312 is the sub-pixel in the display panel 20A corresponding to the position of the second support pillar 12. The area of ​​the first sub-pixel 311 being larger than the area of ​​the second sub-pixel means that the area occupied by the first sub-pixel 311 in the plane of the display panel 20A is greater than the area occupied by the second sub-pixel 312 in the plane of the display panel 20A.

[0163] The first support pillar 11 is located at the edge of the privacy panel 10A and is relatively large, overlapping with the larger first sub-pixel in the stacking direction; the second support pillar 12 is located in the inner area of ​​the privacy panel 10A and is relatively small, overlapping with the smaller second sub-pixel in the stacking direction. The support pillars are light-transmitting, so the difference in pillar size does not mean that different sub-pixels are blocked by opaque support pillars. Instead, it allows support pillars of different sizes to correspond to sub-pixels of corresponding areas, which is beneficial for layout alignment and structural matching between the display panel 20A and the privacy panel 10A.

[0164] Optionally, in another optional embodiment provided in this application, the sub-pixels overlapping with the first support pillar 11 are not displayed in privacy mode. (See reference...) Figure 14 The diagram shows a display module provided in an embodiment of this application. The sub-pixels 310 (dark squares) that overlap with the first support column 11 are not displayed in the privacy mode, while the sub-pixels 310 (light squares) that overlap with the second support column 12 are displayed in the privacy mode.

[0165] Specifically, the privacy mode refers to controlling the voltage of the first electrode to disperse black electrophoretic particles in the electrophoretic liquid 120 between the support pillars, thereby absorbing light emitted from a wide viewing angle and limiting the viewing angle of the display module. In privacy mode, sub-pixels overlapping with the first support pillar 11 are not displayed. This means that these sub-pixels located in the edge areas do not receive display data signals or are not illuminated when privacy mode is enabled; their corresponding sub-pixels are in a closed state. The display state of the sub-pixels is controlled by the driving circuit of the display panel 20A, and can be achieved by cutting off the data signal of the sub-pixel or adjusting its grayscale data when privacy mode is enabled. In sharing mode, the voltage of the first electrode can be controlled to cause black electrophoretic particles to adhere to the vicinity of the first electrode, preventing the light emitted from a wide viewing angle from being blocked by the dispersed black electrophoretic particles.

[0166] In this embodiment, a driving control method is provided to prevent sub-pixels overlapping with the first support pillar 11 from being displayed in privacy mode. By turning off the sub-pixels corresponding to the first support pillar 11 in the edge area in privacy mode, the emitted light generated in the edge area can be reduced, thereby reducing the potential light leakage from the edge area over a wide viewing angle. This driving control method can be combined with the absorption of light from the electrophoretic particles in the privacy panel 10A over a wide viewing angle to further improve the edge privacy effect in privacy mode.

[0167] Based on the above display module, embodiments of this application also provide a display device, including the aforementioned display module. (See reference...) Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the planar structure of a display device provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in the figure, the display device 1000 includes a display module 10, which is the display module 10 described in any of the above embodiments. The display device 1000 provided in this application embodiment can be a display device with display function, such as a mobile phone, computer, television, or vehicle-mounted display device; this application embodiment does not specifically limit its functionality. The display device 1000 provided in this application embodiment has the beneficial effects of the display module 10 provided in this application embodiment. For details, please refer to the specific description of the display module 10 in the above embodiments; further details will not be repeated here.

[0168] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application. Although this application has disclosed preferred embodiments above, it is not intended to limit this application. Any person skilled in the art can make many possible variations and modifications to the technical solutions of this application using the methods and techniques disclosed above, or modify them into equivalent embodiments with equivalent changes, without departing from the scope of the technical solutions of this application. Therefore, any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and modifications made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of this application without departing from the content of the technical solutions of this application shall still fall within the protection scope of the technical solutions of this application.

Claims

1. A privacy panel, characterized in that, include: The substrate and cover plate are positioned opposite each other; The substrate has a first region, and a first electrode is provided between the first regions; The support column between the substrate and the cover plate is located in the first region; Electrophoretic solution located between the substrate and the cover plate; The privacy panel includes a first edge extending along a first direction. Between the center of the privacy panel and the first edge, the first region includes a first sub-region and a second sub-region. The first sub-region is located between the first edge and the second sub-region. The support pillar includes a first support pillar and a second support pillar. The first support pillar is located in the first sub-region, and the second support pillar is located in the second sub-region. The dimension of the first support pillar in the first direction is greater than the dimension of the second support pillar in the first direction.

2. The privacy panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first support column includes a first sub-support column and a second sub-support column arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction, with the second sub-support column located between the first sub-support column and the second support column.

3. The privacy panel according to claim 2, characterized in that, The dimension of the first sub-support column in the first direction is greater than the dimension of the second sub-support column in the first direction.

4. The privacy panel according to claim 2, characterized in that, Along a second direction intersecting the first direction, the gap between adjacent first sub-support columns overlaps with the second sub-support column.

5. The privacy panel according to claim 2, characterized in that, A first sub-support column overlaps with N1 second support columns and the interval between the N1 second support columns in the second direction; a second sub-support column overlaps with N2 second support columns and the interval between the N2 second support columns in the second direction, wherein N1 and N2 are positive integers, and N1 is greater than N2.

6. The privacy panel according to claim 2, characterized in that, Along the second direction, one of the first sub-support columns and one of the second sub-support columns overlap with N3 of the second support columns and the interval between the N3 second support columns, where N3 is a positive integer; All N3 second support columns overlap with the first sub-support columns, and / or at least one of the N3 second support columns includes a portion that does not overlap with the second sub-support column.

7. The privacy panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first support column includes a third sub-support column and a fourth sub-support column arranged along the first direction. The third sub-support column is located between the fourth sub-support column and the second edge, and the second edge intersects the first edge. The size of the third sub-support column in the first direction is smaller than the size of the fourth sub-support column in the first direction.

8. The privacy panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first support column includes a fifth sub-support column and a sixth sub-support column arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction. The sixth sub-support column is located between the fifth sub-support column and the second support column. The dimension of the fifth sub-support column in the second direction is greater than the dimension of the sixth sub-support column in the second direction.

9. The privacy panel according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second support columns include a gap area. The dimension of one fifth sub-support column in the second direction is less than or equal to the sum of the dimensions of N4 second support columns in the second direction and the dimensions of N4 gap areas in the second direction, and the dimension of one fifth sub-support column in the second direction is greater than the dimensions of N4 second support columns in the second direction, where N4 is a positive integer.

10. The privacy panel according to claim 9, characterized in that, The dimension of one of the sixth sub-support columns in the second direction is greater than or equal to the dimension of the N4 second support columns in the second direction.

11. The privacy panel according to claim 8, characterized in that, A fifth sub-support column overlaps with N5 second support columns and the interval between the N5 second support columns in the first direction; a sixth sub-support column overlaps with N6 second support columns in the first direction, wherein N5 and N6 are positive integers, and N5 is greater than N6.

12. The privacy panel according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The privacy panel includes a second edge extending along a second direction intersecting the first direction. Between the center of the privacy panel and the second edge, the first region includes a third sub-region and a fourth sub-region. The third sub-region is located between the second edge and the fourth sub-region. The support pillar also includes a third support pillar and a fourth support pillar. The third support pillar is located in the third sub-region, and the fourth support pillar is located in the fourth sub-region. The dimension of the third support pillar in the second direction is greater than the dimension of the fourth support pillar in the second direction.

13. The privacy panel according to claim 12, characterized in that, The third support column includes a seventh sub-support column and an eighth sub-support column arranged along the first direction. The eighth sub-support column is located between the seventh sub-support column and the fourth support column. The size of the seventh sub-support column in the second direction is larger than the size of the eighth support column in the second direction.

14. The privacy panel according to claim 13, characterized in that, Along the first direction, the gap between adjacent seventh sub-support columns overlaps with the eighth sub-support column.

15. The privacy panel according to claim 12, characterized in that, The third support column includes a ninth sub-support column and a tenth sub-support column arranged along the second direction. The ninth sub-support column is located between the tenth sub-support column and the first edge, and the size of the ninth sub-support column in the second direction is smaller than the size of the tenth sub-support column in the second direction.

16. The privacy panel according to claim 12, characterized in that, The third support column includes an eleventh sub-support column and a twelfth sub-support column arranged along the second direction. The twelfth sub-support column is located between the eleventh sub-support column and the fourth support column. The dimension of the eleventh sub-support column in the first direction is greater than the dimension of the twelfth sub-support column in the first direction.

17. The privacy panel according to any one of claims 1-16, characterized in that, The privacy panel includes a second edge extending along a second direction intersecting the first direction, and the support post also includes a fifth support post located in the corner region between the first edge and the second edge, wherein the dimension of the fifth support post in the first direction is smaller than the dimension of the first support post in the first direction.

18. The privacy panel according to claim 17, characterized in that, Between the center of the privacy panel and the second edge, the first region includes a third sub-region and a fourth sub-region, the third sub-region being located between the second edge and the fourth sub-region, the support post further includes a third support post located in the third sub-region, and the dimension of the fifth support post in the second direction is smaller than the dimension of the third support post in the second direction.

19. The privacy panel according to claim 17, characterized in that, The dimension of the fifth support column in the first direction is equal to the dimension of the second support column in the first direction, and / or the dimension of the fifth support column in the second direction is equal to the dimension of the second support column in the second direction.

20. The privacy panel according to any one of claims 1-19, characterized in that, The privacy panel also includes: A sealing layer is located between the substrate and the cover plate, the sealing layer surrounding the electrophoretic solution.

21. The privacy panel according to claim 20, characterized in that, The privacy panel also includes a sixth support column, which overlaps with the sealing layer in the thickness direction of the privacy panel.

22. The privacy panel according to claim 21, characterized in that, The sixth support column is a ring structure.

23. The privacy panel according to claim 20, characterized in that, The dimension of the sealing layer along the thickness direction of the privacy panel is consistent with the distance between the cover plate and the substrate.

24. The privacy panel according to any one of claims 1-23, characterized in that, The privacy panel includes a first electrode, which is at least partially located in the gap between the second support pillars, and the first electrode is not disposed in the gap between the first support pillars.

25. A display module, characterized in that, include: Display panel, including subpixels; The privacy panel according to any one of claims 1-24; The display panel and the privacy panel are stacked together, with the privacy panel located on the light-emitting side of the display panel. Along the stacking direction of the display panel and the privacy panel, the support column overlaps with the sub-pixel.

26. The display module according to claim 25, characterized in that, One of the first support pillars overlaps with multiple sub-pixels.

27. The display module according to claim 25, characterized in that, The sub-pixel includes a first sub-pixel and a second sub-pixel. Along the direction in which the display panel and the privacy panel are stacked, the first sub-pixel overlaps with the first support pillar, and the second sub-pixel overlaps with the second support pillar. The area of ​​the first sub-pixel is larger than the area of ​​the second sub-pixel.

28. The display module according to claim 25, characterized in that, Subpixels that overlap with the first support column are not displayed in privacy mode.

29. A display device, characterized in that, Includes the display module as described in any one of claims 25-28.

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