Display device and shell

Abstract

Embodiments provide a display device and a housing. A display device is provided with: a display panel having a first surface, a second surface on the opposite side of the first surface, and a mounting region including a terminal, the display panel being visible to the background on the second surface side from the first surface side and visible to the background on the first surface side from the second surface side; and a housing that supports the display panel. The housing has a main body part covering the mounting region and a transparent frame part connected to the main body part.

Description

[0001] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-219342 filed on December 26, 2023, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The utility model relates to display device and shell. BACKGROUND

[0003] In recent years, a display device provided with a display panel having a polymer dispersed liquid crystal layer (PDLC: Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal), a light source, and the like has been proposed. The polymer dispersed liquid crystal layer can switch between a scattering state in which light is scattered and a transparent state in which light is transmitted.

[0004] The display device can display an image in the scattering state. If the display panel is switched to the transparent state, the user can visually recognize a background through the display panel. For the display panel that can visually recognize the background in this way, a shell that supports the display panel is required to be designed without damage. SUMMARY

[0005] Generally, according to the technical solution, the display device is provided with: a display panel having a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a mounting region including a terminal, the display panel being capable of visually recognizing a background on the second surface side from the first surface side and capable of visually recognizing a background on the first surface side from the second surface side; and a shell supporting the display panel. The shell has a main body portion covering the mounting region and a transparent frame portion connected to the main body portion.

[0006] In the display device, the display panel has: an array substrate having a pixel electrode; a counter substrate facing the array substrate; and a liquid crystal layer disposed between the array substrate and the counter substrate, the liquid crystal layer being a polymer dispersed liquid crystal; and the mounting region is provided on the array substrate and does not overlap the counter substrate.

[0007] In the display device, a plurality of light sources arranged in a first direction and emitting light toward a second direction intersecting the first direction toward the display panel are further provided; the mounting region and the counter substrate are arranged in the second direction in a plan view; the main body portion covers the plurality of light sources; and the frame portion extends along the second direction.

[0008] In the display device, the display panel further includes a first cover member that is transparent and has the first surface facing the opposing substrate, and a second cover member that is transparent and has the second surface facing the array substrate, the second cover member having a width in the first direction that is greater than a width of the first cover member in the first direction, the second cover member having a first protruding portion and a second protruding portion, the first protruding portion protruding from the array substrate in a direction opposite to the first direction in plan view, the second protruding portion protruding from the array substrate in the first direction in plan view, the array substrate being positioned between the first protruding portion and the second protruding portion in plan view, and the frame portion having a first frame that overlaps with a portion of the first protruding portion, and a second frame that overlaps with a portion of the second protruding portion.

[0009] In the display device, the first frame has a first slit through which the portion of the first protruding portion passes, and the second frame has a second slit through which the portion of the second protruding portion passes.

[0010] In the display device, the first frame and the second frame are each formed from a single member.

[0011] In the display device, the main body portion faces the plurality of light sources and has a recessed portion recessed in a direction away from the plurality of light sources.

[0012] In the display device, there is further provided a circuit substrate that overlaps with the mounting region, and a flexible circuit substrate that connects the terminal and the circuit substrate.

[0013] In the display device, the second cover member is positioned between the array substrate and the circuit substrate.

[0014] In the display device, the main body portion has a first member that overlaps with the mounting region from the first surface side, and a second member that overlaps with the mounting region from the second surface side, and a first opening through which the display panel passes is formed between the first member and the second member.

[0015] In the display device, the second member is positioned between the second cover member and the circuit substrate.

[0016] In the display device, the housing further includes a substrate cover that covers the circuit substrate, the circuit substrate is positioned between the second member and the substrate cover, and the substrate cover has a second opening through which the flexible circuit substrate passes.

[0017] Further, according to the technical solution, the housing supports a display panel having a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a mounting region including a terminal, a background on the second surface side being visible from the first surface side and a background on the first surface side being visible from the second surface side. The housing has a main body portion covering the mounting region, and a transparent frame portion connected to the main body portion.

[0018] In the housing, the main body portion faces the mounting region and has a recessed portion recessed in a direction away from the mounting region.

[0019] In the housing, the display panel further has a plurality of light sources arranged along the mounting region, the main body portion has a first member overlapping the mounting region from the first surface side and a second member overlapping the mounting region from the second surface side, the first member has the recessed portion, and the recessed portion faces the plurality of light sources and is recessed in a direction away from the plurality of light sources.

[0020] In the housing, the display panel further has an array substrate having a pixel electrode, a counter substrate facing the array substrate, a liquid crystal layer arranged between the array substrate and the counter substrate and being a high-molecular dispersion type liquid crystal, a transparent first cover member having the first surface and facing the counter substrate, and a transparent second cover member having the second surface and facing the array substrate, a width of the second cover member in a first direction, which is a length direction of the mounting region, is greater than a width of the first cover member in the first direction, the second cover member has a first protruding portion and a second protruding portion, the first protruding portion protrudes from the array substrate in a direction opposite to the first direction in a plan view, the second protruding portion protrudes from the array substrate in the first direction in the plan view, the array substrate is located between the first protruding portion and the second protruding portion in the plan view, and the frame portion has a first frame overlapping a part of the first protruding portion and extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and a second frame overlapping a part of the second protruding portion and extending in the second direction.

[0021] In the housing, the first frame has a first slit through which the part of the first protruding portion passes, and the second frame has a second slit through which the part of the second protruding portion passes.

[0022] In the housing, the first frame has a first stopper in the first slit, the second frame has a second stopper in the second slit, the first stopper is located on a side of the first slit opposite to the main body portion and faces the first protruding portion, and the second stopper is located on a side of the second slit opposite to the main body portion and faces the second protruding portion.

[0023] In the housing, the main body portion has a first member overlapping the mounting region from the first surface side, and a second member overlapping the mounting region from the second surface side. A first opening through which the display panel passes is formed between the first member and the second member.

[0024] In the housing, there is also a substrate cover. The display panel has a circuit substrate overlapping the mounting region, and a flexible circuit substrate connected to the mounting region and the circuit substrate. The substrate cover covers the circuit substrate and has a second opening through which the flexible circuit substrate passes.

[0025] According to such a structure, a display device and a housing that can improve designability can be provided. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0026] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view showing a structure example of a display device of one embodiment.

[0027] Figure 2 is a view showing a structure example of a display device of one embodiment.

[0028] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device of one embodiment.

[0029] Figure 4 is a view showing one example of a structure that can be applied to the vicinity of the mounting region.

[0030] Figure 5 is a view showing one example of a structure that can be applied to the vicinity of the mounting region.

[0031] Figure 6 is a view showing the vicinity of the mounting region of the display panel after the holding member, the light source unit, and the light guide are detached.

[0032] Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device along line VII-VII in Figure 4

[0033] Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of a housing of one embodiment.

[0034] Figure 9 is a front view of a housing of one embodiment.

[0035] Figure 10 is a side view of a housing of one embodiment.

[0036] Figure 11 is a top view of a housing of one embodiment. ​

[0037] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the display device along the line XII-XII in Figure 1

[0038] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of the display device along the line XIII-XIII in Figure 1

[0039] Figure 14 is a view for explaining the relationship between the first frame and the support member.

[0040] Figure 15 is a view for explaining the relationship between the first frame, the support member, and the cover member. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] An embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0042] The disclosure is merely one example, and of course includes within the scope of the utility model those portions which can be readily derived by those skilled in the art with appropriate modifications as appropriate to the essential characteristics of the utility model. Furthermore, the drawings have, for the sake of making the explanation clearer, cases in which the width, thickness, shape, and the like of each part are schematically represented compared to the actual form, but this is merely one example, and does not limit the explanation of the utility model. Furthermore, in the present specification and each drawing, repeated detailed explanation is appropriately omitted for elements which exert the same or similar function to elements described with respect to the preceding drawings.

[0043] In addition, in the drawings, as necessary, X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis which are orthogonal to each other are described for easy understanding. The direction along the X-axis is referred to as the first direction X, the direction along the Y-axis is referred to as the second direction Y, and the direction along the Z-axis is referred to as the third direction Z.

[0044] In the present embodiment, as one example of a display device, a liquid crystal display device (so-called transparent display) in which a high-transparency liquid crystal of a polymer-dispersed type is applied is disclosed. However, the structure disclosed in the present embodiment can also be applied to other kinds of display devices.

[0045] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the structure of a display device DSP of the present embodiment. The display device DSP is provided with a display panel PNL and a housing CAS. The display device DSP is also provided with a light source unit and the like described later.

[0046] The display device DSP can be self-erected on a setting surface such as a desk as in the example shown in Figure 1 . By this, the display device DSP can be used as a monitor. The display device DSP can also be arranged between users facing each other, for example.​​

[0047] The housing CAS supports the display panel PNL. The housing CAS has a main portion MP, leg portions LPA, LPB connected to the main portion MP, and a frame portion FP connected to the main portion MP.

[0048] The housing CAS is capable of standing by itself by the leg portions LPA, LPB. The leg portions LPA, LPB are respectively arranged at both ends in the width direction of the main portion MP. Details of the housing CAS will be described later.

[0049] Figure 2 is a view showing a configuration example of the display device DSP of the present embodiment. In Figure 2 the housing CAS and the like are omitted. In Figure 2 the display device DSP is viewed in the direction opposite to the third direction Z.

[0050] The display device DSP is provided with the above-described display panel PNL, the light source unit LU, and the light guide LG. In Figure 2 the light source unit LU and the light guide LG are omitted by being given a broken line.

[0051] The display panel PNL is provided with an array substrate AR and a counter substrate CT which overlap in the third direction Z. The counter substrate CT faces the array substrate AR. In Figure 2 the array substrate AR and the counter substrate CT are both rectangular in shape with a long dimension in the first direction X. However, the shapes of the array substrate AR and the counter substrate CT are not limited to this example.

[0052] The width of the array substrate AR in the second direction Y is larger than the width of the counter substrate CT in the second direction Y. Thus, the array substrate AR has a mounting region MA provided in a portion which does not overlap the counter substrate CT. The mounting region MA and the counter substrate CT are arranged in the second direction Y in a plan view. Further, the first direction X corresponds to the length direction of the mounting region MA. A flexible circuit substrate and the like described later is mounted to the mounting region MA.

[0053] The display panel PNL has a display region DA which displays an image, and a peripheral region SA which is a frame shape surrounding the display region DA. The display region DA and the peripheral region SA are both formed in a portion where the array substrate AR and the counter substrate CT overlap. The display region DA is provided with a plurality of pixels PX arranged in a matrix shape in the first direction X and the second direction Y.

[0054] The display panel PNL further has a liquid crystal layer LC enclosed between the array substrate AR and the counter substrate CT. As schematically shown in an enlarged manner below in Figure 2 the liquid crystal layer LC is composed of a high-molecular dispersion type liquid crystal including a polymer 31 and liquid crystal molecules 32.

[0055] In one example, the polymer 31 is a liquid crystal polymer. The polymer 31 is formed in a strip shape extending along the first direction X and arranged in the second direction Y. The liquid crystal molecules 32 are dispersed in the gaps of the polymer 31 and oriented with their long axes along the first direction X.

[0056] The polymer 31 and the liquid crystal molecules 32 each have optical anisotropy or refractive index anisotropy. The polymer 31 has a lower responsiveness to an electric field than the liquid crystal molecules 32. In one example, the orientation direction of the polymer 31 hardly changes regardless of the presence or absence of an electric field. In contrast, the orientation direction of the liquid crystal molecules 32 changes in response to the voltage applied to the liquid crystal layer LC.

[0057] In a state where no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer LC, the optical axes of the polymer 31 and the liquid crystal molecules 32 are parallel to each other, and light incident into the liquid crystal layer LC is transmitted through the liquid crystal layer LC without being scattered (transparent state).

[0058] In a state where a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer LC, the optical axes of the polymer 31 and the liquid crystal molecules 32 cross each other, and light incident into the liquid crystal layer LC is scattered in the liquid crystal layer LC (scattering state).

[0059] As shown in an enlarged view of the upper portion of FIG. 1, Figure 2 A plurality of scan lines G and a plurality of signal lines S are arranged in the display region DA. The plurality of scan lines G extend in the first direction X and are arranged in the second direction Y. The plurality of signal lines S extend in the second direction Y and are arranged in the first direction X.

[0060] Each pixel PX includes a switching element SW, a pixel electrode PE, a common electrode CE, and a capacitor CS. The switching element SW is formed of, for example, a thin film transistor (TFT) and is electrically connected to the scan line G and the signal line S. The pixel electrode PE is electrically connected to the switching element SW.

[0061] The liquid crystal layer LC (particularly, the liquid crystal molecules 32) is driven by an electric field generated between the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE. The capacitor CS is formed, for example, between an electrode at the same potential as the common electrode CE and an electrode at the same potential as the pixel electrode PE.

[0062] The light source unit LU and the light guide LG are arranged along the mounting region MA. The light source unit LU includes a plurality of light sources LS arranged in the first direction X. Each light source LS irradiates light toward the display panel PNL along the second direction Y via the light guide LG. As the light guide LG, a lens such as a prism lens can be used, for example.

[0063] For example, the plurality of light sources LS include a light emitting element that emits red light, a light emitting element that emits green light, and a light emitting element that emits blue light. These light emitting elements can be arranged in the first direction X or stacked in the third direction Z. As the light emitting element, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) can be used.

[0064] Figure 3 Fig. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device DSP of the present embodiment. The configuration of a display panel PNL and the like is schematically shown in the figure, and elements such as scan lines G, signal lines S, and switching elements SW are omitted.

[0065] The array substrate AR and the counter substrate CT are attached with a sealant SE. The sealant SE has a shape that surrounds the display region DA. The liquid crystal layer LC is enclosed in a space surrounded by the sealant SE.

[0066] The array substrate AR is provided with the pixel electrode PE described above. The counter substrate CT is provided with the common electrode CE described above. The pixel electrode PE faces the common electrode CE with the liquid crystal layer LC interposed therebetween.

[0067] The pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE are respectively formed on transparent insulating substrates provided in the array substrate AR and the counter substrate CT. These insulating substrates are formed of, for example, glass, but can be formed of plastic.

[0068] In one example, the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE are respectively formed under the orientation film of the array substrate AR and the counter substrate CT. The arrangement of the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE is not limited to this example. As another example, the array substrate AR can be provided with both the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE.

[0069] The display panel PNL also has a cover member CM1 and a cover member CM2. In the present embodiment, the cover member CM1 corresponds to a second cover member, and the cover member CM2 corresponds to a first cover member. These cover members CM1 and CM2 are both transparent, and are formed of, for example, glass in one example.

[0070] As another example, the cover members CM1 and CM2 can be formed of plastic. The cover members CM1 and CM2 are sufficiently thicker than the array substrate AR and the counter substrate CT. In one example, the cover members CM1 and CM2 have a thickness that is two times or more the thickness of the array substrate AR and the counter substrate CT.

[0071] The array substrate AR has a main surface F1, a main surface F2 opposite to the main surface F1, and side surfaces E1a and E1b connecting the main surfaces F1 and F2. The cover member CM1 has a main surface F3 facing the main surface F1, a main surface F4 opposite to the main surface F3, and side surfaces E2a and E2b connecting the main surfaces F3 and F4. In this embodiment, the main surface F4 corresponds to the second surface.

[0072] The main surfaces F1 and F3 are bonded together with a transparent first adhesive layer AD1. As the first adhesive layer AD1, OCA (Optical Clear Adhesive) can be used, for example.

[0073] The opposing substrate CT has a main surface F5 facing the main surface F2 across the liquid crystal layer LC, a main surface F6 opposite to the main surface F5, and side surfaces E3a and E3b connecting the main surfaces F5 and F6. The cover member CM2 has a main surface F7 facing the main surface F6, a main surface F8 opposite to the main surface F7, and side surfaces E4a and E4b connecting the main surfaces F7 and F8. In this embodiment, the main surface F8 corresponds to the first surface. The main surface F4 is located opposite to the main surface F8.

[0074] The main surfaces F6 and F7 are bonded together with a transparent second adhesive layer AD2. As the second adhesive layer AD2, OCA can be used in the same way as the first adhesive layer AD1.

[0075] Sides E1a, E2a, E3a, and E4a are all located on the light source LS side (light incident side). Sides E1b, E2b, E3b, and E4b are all located on the opposite side of the light source LS (reverse light incident side). The mounting region MA is formed in the array substrate AR, protruding from side E3a in a direction opposite to the second direction Y.

[0076] Side E2a, E4a, E2b, E4b Figure 3 The example shown is a plane parallel to the first direction X and the third direction Z. However, the cross-sectional shapes of the sides E2a, E4a, E2b, and E4b are not limited to this example.

[0077] exist Figure 3 In the example shown, reflectors RF are disposed near the sides E1b, E2b, E3b, and E4b. The reflectors RF are, for example, reflective strips adhered to the sides E1b, E2b, E3b, and E4b. Alternatively, the reflectors RF could be reflective films formed on the sides E1b, E2b, E3b, and E4b.

[0078] The light source LS faces the side E4a. The light guide LG is positioned between the side E4a and the light source LS. Figure 3An example of a path of light L emitted from the light source LS is shown in FIG. 8. The light L emitted from the light source LS is incident on the side surface E4a through the light guide LG.

[0079] The light L repeatedly totally reflects between the main surface F8 and the main surface F4 while heading toward the light-reflecting side. The light L reaching the side surfaces E1b, E2b, E3b, E4b is reflected by the reflecting member RF, repeatedly totally reflects between the main surface F8 and the main surface F4 while heading toward the light-incident side.

[0080] In the vicinity of the pixel PX in the transparent state, the light L is hardly scattered by the liquid crystal layer LC. Therefore, the light L hardly leaks out to the cover members CM1, CM2.

[0081] On the other hand, in the vicinity of the pixel PX in the scattering state, the light L is scattered by the liquid crystal layer LC. The scattered light SL is emitted from the cover members CM1, CM2 and is visually recognized by the user as a display image. It is also possible to realize gradation expression of scattering degree (brightness) by stage- wise specifying the voltage applied to the pixel electrode PE in a prescribed range.

[0082] In addition, in the vicinity of the pixel PX in the transparent state, external light incident on the cover members CM1, CM2 is hardly transmitted through the liquid crystal layer LC without scattering. That is, in the case where the display panel PNL is observed from the side of the cover member CM1 (the side of the main surface F4), the background on the side of the cover member CM2 (the side of the main surface F8) can be visually recognized, and in the case where the display panel PNL is observed from the side of the cover member CM2 (the side of the main surface F8), the background on the side of the cover member CM1 (the side of the main surface F4) can be visually recognized.

[0083] Observation of the display device DSP from the side of the cover member CM1 means observation of the display device DSP in the 3rd direction Z, and observation of the display device DSP from the side of the cover member CM2 means observation of the display device DSP in the direction opposite to the 3rd direction Z.

[0084] For example, as a display method of the display device DSP, a field sequential method in which a 1st subframe in which red color images are displayed by lighting red color light emitting elements among the plurality of light sources LS, a 2nd subframe in which green color images are displayed by lighting green color light emitting elements, and a 3rd subframe in which blue color images are displayed by lighting blue color light emitting elements are repeated can be used.

[0085] Figure 4 and Figure 5 is a view showing an example of a structure that can be applied in the vicinity of the mounting region MA. In Figure 5 is a view showing a state in which the display panel PNL is housed in the case CAS. In Figure 4 and Figure 5 In, the display panel PNL is observed in the direction opposite to the 3rd direction Z.

[0086] The display device DSP has a holding member 1 that holds the light source unit LU and the light guide LG, as shown in Figure 4 and Figure 5 The holding member 1 has a shape that is long in the first direction X, and covers the mounting region MA.

[0087] For example, the holding member 1 has a first portion 11, a second portion 12, and a rib 13 between the first portion 11 and the second portion 12. The first portion 11 is located lower (on the opposite side of the display region DA) than the rib 13. The second portion 12 is located between the rib 13 and the display region DA.

[0088] In the example shown in Figure 4 The opposing substrate CT and the cover member CM2 have the same planar shape. The cover member CM1 has a width in the first direction X that is larger than the array substrate AR, the opposing substrate CT, and the cover member CM2. As a result, both ends of the cover member CM1 in the first direction X protrude beyond the array substrate AR, the opposing substrate CT, and the cover member CM2.

[0089] Specifically, the cover member CM1 has protruding portions PT1, PT2 at both ends thereof in the first direction X. In the present embodiment, the protruding portion PT1 corresponds to a first protruding portion, and the protruding portion PT2 corresponds to a second protruding portion.

[0090] The protruding portion PT1 protrudes in a direction opposite the first direction X from the cover member CM2, and the protruding portion PT2 protrudes in the first direction X from the cover member CM2. The protruding portion PT1 protrudes in a direction opposite the first direction X from the array substrate AR, and the protruding portion PT2 protrudes in the first direction X from the array substrate AR. The display region DA is located between the protruding portion PT1 and the protruding portion PT2 in the first direction X. The array substrate AR is located between the protruding portion PT1 and the protruding portion PT2 in the first direction X. The protruding portions PT1, PT2 have a shape that is long in the second direction Y.

[0091] The display device DSP also has a plurality of flexible circuit boards 2, and a circuit board 3. The rigidity of the flexible circuit boards 2 is smaller than the rigidity of the circuit board 3. In the mounting region MA, one end of each of the plurality of flexible circuit boards 2 is connected. The other end of each of the flexible circuit boards 2 is connected to the circuit board 3, which is a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0092] A portion of the circuit board 3 overlaps the mounting region MA in the example shown in Figure 5 The flexible circuit boards 2 are bent toward the cover member CM2 in the example shown in Figure 5 In other words, the flexible circuit boards 2 have sufficient length to be bent.

[0093] Here, as shown inFigure 4 and Figure 5 The distance between the side surface E2a of the cover member CM1 and the end of the member that protrudes most in the opposite direction of the second direction Y from the side surface E2a of the cover member CM1 is defined as distance D1 and D2, respectively.

[0094] In Figure 4 , the end of the member that protrudes most in the opposite direction of the second direction Y from the side surface E2a is the end of the circuit substrate 3. In Figure 5 , the end of the member that protrudes most in the opposite direction of the second direction Y from the side surface E2a is the bent portion 21 of the flexible circuit substrate 2 that is bent. As Figure 4 and Figure 5 shown, the distance D2 is smaller than the distance D1 (D2 < D1). In one example, the distance D1 is about 131.5 mm and the distance D2 is about 47 mm.

[0095] In this way, by bending the flexible circuit substrate 2 and overlapping the circuit substrate 3 in the mounting region MA, the area of the portion that protrudes in the opposite direction of the second direction Y from the side surface E2a can be made smaller. As a result, the area of the frame portion on the setting surface side in the display device DSP can be made smaller.

[0096] Figure 6 is a view showing the vicinity of the mounting region MA of the display panel PNL after the holding member 1, the light source unit LU, and the light guide LG are removed. A plurality of terminals T are provided in the mounting region MA. The flexible circuit substrate 2 is connected to the terminals T via a conductive adhesive. Further, a plurality of integrated circuits 4 are mounted in the mounting region MA. In the example shown in Figure 4 , the integrated circuits 4 and the terminals T are arranged in the second direction Y.

[0097] The drive signals of the array substrate AR are input to the terminals T via the circuit substrate 3 and the flexible circuit substrate 2. For example, the integrated circuits 4 include drivers that supply signals to the scan lines G and the signal lines S based on the drive signals input to the terminals T. Figure 1

[0098] Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display device DSP along the line VII-VII in Figure 4 . In Figure 7 , the adhesive layers AD1, AD2, the seal member SE, the liquid crystal layer LC, and the like are omitted.

[0099] As described above, the array substrate AR protrudes more than the side surface E3a of the counter substrate CT, and the cover member CM1 protrudes more than the side surface E1a of the array substrate AR. The cover member CM1 protrudes more than the side surface E4a of the cover member CM2.

[0100] In​Figure 7 In the example shown, the position of the side surface E3a of the counter substrate CT is aligned with the position of the side surface E4a of the cover member CM2. The mounting region MA is formed in a portion of the array substrate AR that protrudes beyond the side surfaces E3a, E4a.

[0101] A heat sink 20 can also be attached to the flexible circuit substrate 2 and the integrated circuit 4 mounted in the mounting region MA. Thus, the temperature increase of the integrated circuit 4 due to heat generated during display driving can be suppressed.

[0102] The first portion 11, the second portion 12, and the rib plate 13 of the holding member 1 are formed integrally, for example, from a metal material. The first portion 11 and the second portion 12 are flat plates parallel to the first direction X and the second direction Y.

[0103] In Figure 7 In the example shown, the position of the first portion 11 and the position of the second portion 12 are offset in the third direction Z. Specifically, the distance between the first portion 11 and the cover member CM1 is smaller than the distance between the second portion 12 and the cover member CM1.

[0104] The rib plate 13 protrudes in the third direction Z from the first portion 11 and the second portion 12. The rib plate 13 is provided at a position overlapping the side surface E1a of the array substrate AR in the third direction Z. The first portion 11 is attached to the main surface F3 of the cover member CM1 with the adhesive member 5.

[0105] The light source unit LU is provided with a light source substrate 6 on which a light source LS is mounted. The light source substrate 6 is fixed to the holding member 1. The method of fixation is not particularly limited, but in Figure 7 In the example shown, the light source substrate 6 is attached to the inner surface of the rib plate 13 with an adhesive layer 60.

[0106] A light guide LG is disposed in the space surrounded by the display panel PNL and the holding member 1. The light guide LG is positioned between the holding member 1 and the mounting region MA in the third direction Z. For example, the light guide LG is attached to the second portion 12 with an adhesive layer 7 having light reflectivity. In addition, a reflective sheet 8 is attached to the surface of the light guide LG opposite the mounting region MA. These adhesive layer 7 and reflective sheet 8 suppress the emission of light from the light guide LG.

[0107] Next, the case CAS provided with the display device DSP will be described.

[0108] Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of the case CAS of the present embodiment. Figure 9 is a front view of the case CAS of the present embodiment. Figure 10 is a side view of the case CAS of the present embodiment. Figure 11 is a plan view of the case CAS of the present embodiment. InFigure 9 In the case where the case CAS is viewed in the direction opposite to the third direction Z, the Figure 10 In the case where the case CAS is viewed in the first direction X, the Figure 11 In the case where the case CAS is viewed in the direction opposite to the second direction Y, the. In the case where the case CAS is viewed in the direction opposite to the second direction Y, the Figure 8 to Figure 11 In the case where the case CAS is viewed in the direction opposite to the second direction Y, the. In the case where the case CAS is viewed in the direction opposite to the second direction Y, the Figure 1 In the case where the case CAS is viewed in the direction opposite to the second direction Y, the. In the case where the case CAS is viewed in the direction opposite to the second direction Y, the

[0109] The case CAS has a main body portion MP and a frame portion FP. The main body portion MP covers at least a portion of the display panel PNL. Specifically, the main body portion MP covers the mounting region MA and the light source unit LU (the plurality of light sources LS).

[0110] In a state where the display device DSP is self-standing, the mounting region MA and the main body portion MP are located on the setting surface side. The main body portion MP has a first member 51, a second member 52, and support members 53A and 53B as shown in FIG. 1. Figure 8

[0111] The first member 51 and the second member 52 have an oblong shape that is long in the first direction X. The support members 53A and 53B are provided between the first member 51 and the second member 52.

[0112] The support members 53A and 53B are respectively provided at both end portions of the main body portion MP in the first direction X. The first member 51, the second member 52, and the frame portion FP are respectively connected by the support members 53A and 53B and a fixing member 57 (shown in FIG. 1). The fixing member 57 is, for example, a screw. The fixing member 57 is connected not only from, for example, the direction opposite to the third direction Z but also from the third direction Z. Figure 9

[0113] In the main body portion MP, a space SP is defined by the first member 51, the second member 52, and the support members 53A and 53B. In the space SP, a portion of the display panel PNL including the mounting region MA is disposed. Between the first member 51 and the second member 52, a first opening API connected to the space SP is formed as shown in FIG. 1. The display panel PNL passes through the first opening API. Figure 11

[0114] The first opening API has a shape that is long in the first direction X. The width of the first opening API in the first direction X is larger than the width of the cover member CM2 in the first direction X. The width of the first opening API in the third direction Z is larger than the thickness of the display panel PNL in the third direction Z. Here, the thickness of the display panel PNL in the third direction Z corresponds to the distance from the main face F4 (shown in FIG. 1) of the cover member CM1 to the main face F8 (shown in FIG. 1) of the cover member CM2. Figure 3 Figure 3 ​​​​​

[0115] The main body portion MP further has a substrate cover 54. The substrate cover 54 overlaps the second member 52 in the third direction Z. The substrate cover 54 is connected to the second member 52, for example, by a fixing member such as a screw.

[0116] Next, the frame portion FP will be described.

[0117] The frame portion FP has a first frame 61 and a second frame 62. The first frame 61 and the second frame 62 extend along the second direction Y from both end portions in the first direction X of the main body portion MP.

[0118] The first frame 61 and the second frame 62 are formed of a transparent material. Here, the transparent is, for example, colorless transparent. However, the transparent can include translucent and colored transparent. The material forming the first frame 61 and the second frame 62 is, for example, acrylic, polycarbonate, glass, or the like.

[0119] The first frame 61 and the second frame 62 are formed of, for example, a single member. Thereby, the transparency of the first frame 61 and the second frame 62 can be improved. However, the first frame 61 and the second frame 62 can be formed of a plurality of members.

[0120] The housing CAS can visually recognize the background in the first frame 61 and the second frame 62. Specifically, in the first frame 61 and the second frame 62, the background of the cover member CM2 side (the main surface F8 side) can be visually recognized when the frame portion FP is viewed from the cover member CM1 side, and the background of the cover member CM1 side (the main surface F4 side) can be visually recognized when the frame portion FP is viewed from the cover member CM2 side.

[0121] The first frame 61 has a first slit 610 as shown in Figure 9 and Figure 10 The second frame 62 has a second slit 620 as shown in Figure 9 The first slit 610 and the second slit 620 are formed along the second direction Y.

[0122] The first slit 610 and the second slit 620 do not penetrate the first frame 61 and the second frame 62 in the second direction Y. Specifically, the first frame 61 has a stop portion 611 (first stop portion), and the second frame 62 has a stop portion 621 (first stop portion). The stop portions 611, 621 are located on opposite sides of the main body portion MP in the second direction Y. The stop portions 611, 621 block one end of the first frame 61 and the second frame 62 in the second direction Y.

[0123] Next, the configuration of the main body portion MP of the housing CAS and the mounting area MA of the display panel PNL will be described.

[0124] Figure 12 is along theFigure 1 FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display device DSP taken along the XII-XII line in FIG. 6. In Figure 12 FIG. 7, the display device DSP is viewed in a direction opposite the first direction X.

[0125] The display panel PNL passes through the first opening API. The mounting region MA is disposed in the space SP as Figure 12 indicated. In other words, the first member 51 overlaps the mounting region MA from a direction opposite the third direction Z (the counter substrate CT side), and the second member 52 overlaps the mounting region MA from the third direction Z (the array substrate AR side).

[0126] The first member 51 has an inner surface 511 facing the mounting region MA. The inner surface 511 corresponds to a portion of a surface that defines the space SP. The inner surface 511 has a recessed portion 513. The recessed portion 513 is recessed in the third direction Z (a direction away from the light source unit LU). The recessed portion 513 is formed along the first direction X. The distance between the first member 51 and the second member 52 is largest at the recessed portion 513. Thus, the distance D3 between the first member 51 and the second member 52 can be sufficiently ensured in the recessed portion 513.

[0127] The recessed portion 513 faces the rib 13 of the holding member 1 and the light source unit LU. A gap is formed between the recessed portion 513 and the light source unit LU. Thus, even if a force is applied from the outside of the case CAS, the force is less likely to be applied to the light source unit LU.

[0128] There is a case where a force from the outside damages the light guide LG, or deforms the holding member 1, or misaligns the optical axis of the light source LS. These undesirable conditions can become a cause of a decrease in display quality. In the present embodiment, by forming the recessed portion 513, a force is less likely to be applied to the light source unit LU from the outside, so a decrease in display quality of the display device DSP can be suppressed.

[0129] As described using Figure 5 FIG. 6, the flexible circuit substrate 2 is bent, and the circuit substrate 3 overlaps the mounting region MA in the third direction Z. Thus, the width of the main portion MP in the second direction Y can be made smaller. The circuit substrate 3 overlaps the mounting region MA across the second member 52 as Figure 12 indicated.

[0130] The circuit substrate 3 is disposed in parallel with the second member 52 at a distance in the third direction Z. The circuit substrate 3 is disposed in the second member 52, for example, via a plurality of spacers 55. The circuit substrate 3 is positioned between the second member 52 and the substrate cover 54.

[0131] The substrate cover 54 has a substantially U-shaped shape as Figure 12 indicated. The substrate cover 54 covers the circuit substrate 3. The substrate cover 54 is disposed in the space SP asFigure 12 As shown, it has a second opening AP2 and a third opening AP3. The second opening AP2 and the third opening AP3 penetrate the substrate cover 54 in the second direction Y. The circuit board 3 is disposed between the second opening AP2 and the third opening AP3.

[0132] The second opening AP2 and the third opening AP3 are in Figure 11 The example shown has a shape that is elongated in the first direction X. In the second direction Y, airflow can be generated between the second opening AP2 and the third opening AP3. The second opening AP2 and the third opening AP3 function as heat dissipation vents.

[0133] The bent flexible circuit board 2 passes through the second opening AP2. From another viewpoint, the second component 52 is located between the bent flexible circuit boards 2.

[0134] The substrate cover 54, circuit board 3, second component 52, mounting area MA of display panel PNL, and first component 51 are arranged in this order in the third direction Z. Cover component CM1 is located between array board AR and circuit board 3, and second component 52 is located between cover component CM1 and circuit board 3.

[0135] Next, the configuration of the frame portion FP of the housing CAS and the cover portion CM1 of the display panel PNL will be described. Hereinafter, the area around the first frame 61 will be mainly described, but the second frame 62 is also configured in the same way.

[0136] Figure 13 It is along Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the display device DSP for lines XIII-XIII. First slit 610 as shown. Figure 13 As shown, the opening is in the first direction X. Although not illustrated, the second slit 620 opens in the direction opposite to the first direction X.

[0137] A first frame 61 is provided at the protrusion PT1. Although not shown, a second frame 62 is provided at the protrusion PT2. Specifically, a portion of the protrusion PT1 passes through the first slit 610 along the second direction Y. In other words, the first frame 61 overlaps with a portion of the protrusion PT1. Although not shown, a portion of the protrusion PT2 passes through the second slit 620. In other words, the second frame 62 overlaps with a portion of the protrusion PT2. Since the cover member CM1 and the frame portion FP are transparent, the background can be seen in the frame portion FP even when the protrusion PT1 passes through the first slit 610 and the protrusion PT2 passes through the second slit 620.

[0138] The width of the first and second slits 610 and 620 in the third direction Z is larger than the width of the cover member CM1 in the third direction Z. Thus, the cover member CM1 can pass through the first and second slits 610 and 620 in the second direction Y.

[0139] If the protrusions PT1 and PT2 pass through the first and second slits 610 and 620 in the second direction Y, the side surface E2b of the cover member CM1 comes into contact with the stop portions 611 and 621, respectively (shown by the dotted line). Figure 9 In other words, the stop portion 611 opposes the protrusion PT1, and the stop portion 621 opposes the protrusion PT2.

[0140] The display panel PNL is restricted in movement in the third direction Z and the direction opposite to the third direction Z by the first and second slits 610 and 620. Further, the housing CAS supports a load from the display panel PNL in the third direction Z and the direction opposite to the third direction Z by the first and second frames 61 and 62.

[0141] The width of the protrusion PT1 of the cover member CM1 in the first direction X is larger than the width of the first slit 610 in the first direction X. Although not shown, the width of the protrusion PT2 of the cover member CM1 in the first direction X is larger than the width of the second slit 620 in the first direction X.

[0142] A gap GA is formed in the first direction X between the first frame 61 and the cover member CM2, as shown in Figure 13 Although not shown, a gap is formed in the first direction X between the second frame 62 and the cover member CM2.

[0143] Figure 14 is a view for explaining the relationship between the first frame 61 and the support member 53A. Figure 15 is a view for explaining the relationship between the first frame 61, the support member 53A, and the cover member CM1. In Figure 14 and Figure 15 , the first frame 61 and the support member 53A are viewed from the second member 52 side.

[0144] In Figure 14 , the first frame 61 is shown by a solid line. In Figure 15 , the cover member CM1 is shown by a single-dot chain line. In Figure 14 and Figure 15 , the second member 52, the substrate cover 54, and the like are omitted.

[0145] The first frame 61 has an end portion 61a. The end portion 61a corresponds to the portion of the first frame 61 disposed between the first component 51 and the second component 52. The end portion 61a includes a portion extending in a direction opposite to the second direction Y, which is greater than the first slit 610.

[0146] The width of end 61a in the first direction X is smaller than the width of the other parts of the first frame 61 in the first direction X. End 61a, as... Figure 14 It is connected to the support member 53A as shown. The inner surface of the second member 52 is as shown. Figure 8 As shown, there is a depression in the portion that overlaps with end 61a.

[0147] The first frame 61 has surfaces 613 and 615. Surfaces 613 and 615 face in a direction opposite to the second direction Y. The support member 53A has surfaces 531A and 533A. Surfaces 531A and 533A face in the second direction Y. A portion of the surface of the support member 53A facing the end 61a protrudes in a direction opposite to the third direction Z, thereby forming surfaces 531A and 533A.

[0148] Face 531A faces face 613, and face 533A faces face 615. Figure 15 In this configuration, a gap is formed between the first frame 61 and the support member 53A, but it is also possible that no gap is formed. Figure 15 In the example shown, the end 61a of the first frame 61 is located between surface 531A and surface 533A in the first direction X.

[0149] First slit 610 Figure 14 As shown, surface 613 opens in a direction opposite to the second direction Y. Surface 531A faces this opening of the first slit 610. Figure 15 For ease of illustration, a gap is placed between surface 531A and side surface E2a, but surface 531A is connected to side surface E2a of cover component CM1.

[0150] Thus, support member 53A supports cover member CM1. Similarly, support member 53B supports cover member CM1. As a result, support members 53A and 53B are able to support the entire display panel PNL.

[0151] In the display device DSP, the display panel PNL is restricted from moving in the second direction Y and in the direction opposite to the second direction Y by support members 53A, 53B and stop parts 611, 621.

[0152] In the support member 53A and end 61a, such as Figure 15 As shown, multiple through holes H1 and H2 are formed to accommodate threaded components and other fixed parts. The connection structure between the main body MP and the frame FP described above is one example; other structures can be applied.

[0153] The display device DSP configured as above can improve the design. Specifically, the transparent frame portion FP (the first frame 61 and the second frame 62) provided in the housing CAS enables the background to be visually recognized. Thus, since the background can be visually recognized not only in the display panel PNL but also in the frame portion FP, the display device DSP can improve the design. Further, since the display panel PNL and the frame portion FP are integrated into the surrounding scene, the display device DSP is less likely to impair the aesthetics.

[0154] In the present embodiment, when the circuit board 3 is housed in the main body portion MP, the flexible circuit board 2 is bent, and the circuit board 3 overlaps the mounting region MA. Thus, as used in the description of the first embodiment, the display panel PNL is supported by the frame portion FP. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As described above, the area of the frame portion on the setting surface side of the display device DSP can be made small. As a result, the design of the display device DSP can be further improved.

[0155] With respect to the display panel PNL, the cover member CM1 passes through the first and second slits 610 and 620 with respect to the first and second frames 61 and 62. In other words, the display panel PNL is not fixed to the frame portion FP by a fixing member such as a screw.

[0156] Thus, the configuration of the first and second frames 61 and 62 can be made simple. Specifically, the width of the first and second frames 61 and 62 in the first direction X can be made small. As a result, the design of the display device DSP can be further improved.

[0157] If an adhesive member such as a double-sided tape is provided in the specific region A (indicated by a broken line in Figure 4 ) of the surrounding region SA, light emitted from the light source LS is dissipated or reflected by the adhesive member. Thus, there is a case where the luminance gradient of the display panel PNL changes and the display quality deteriorates.

[0158] In the present embodiment, the display panel PNL is supported by the protrusions PT1 and PT2 passing through the first and second slits 610 and 620, and thus it is not necessary to provide an adhesive member such as a double-sided tape in the region A. Thus, in the display device DSP, the luminance gradient of the display panel PNL is less likely to change undesirably, and the deterioration of the display quality can be suppressed.

[0159] The above, all the display devices and housings which can be implemented by appropriately changing the design of the display device and the housing described as embodiments of the present application by those skilled in the art also belong to the scope of the present application as long as they include the gist of the present application.

[0160] It should be noted that, in the ideological category of the present application, those skilled in the art can think of various modifications, and these modifications also belong to the scope of the present application. For example, the skilled person in the art can appropriately add, delete or change the form of the design of the above-mentioned embodiments, or add, omit or change the form of the process, as long as it has the essence of the present application, which is included in the scope of the present application.

[0161] In addition, it should be understood that, as for other effects brought about by the forms described in the above embodiments, it is of course brought about by the present application according to the description in the present application, or can be appropriately thought by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A display device, characterized in that, have: A display panel having a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a mounting area including terminals, wherein the background of the second surface is visible from the first surface and the background of the first surface is visible from the second surface; and The housing supports the aforementioned display panel; The housing has a main body that covers the mounting area and a transparent frame that is connected to the main body.

2. The display device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The above display panel has: An array substrate having pixel electrodes; Opposing substrate, facing the aforementioned array substrate; as well as The liquid crystal layer, disposed between the array substrate and the opposing substrate, is a polymer-dispersed liquid crystal. The aforementioned mounting area is located on the aforementioned array substrate and does not overlap with the aforementioned opposing substrate.

3. The display device as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes a plurality of light sources arranged in a first direction and irradiating light toward the display panel in a second direction that intersects the first direction; The aforementioned mounting area and the aforementioned opposing substrate are arranged in the aforementioned second direction when viewed in a planar view; The aforementioned main body covers the aforementioned multiple light sources; The aforementioned frame extends along the aforementioned second direction.

4. The display device as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that, The above-mentioned display panel also has: A transparent first cover component, having the aforementioned first surface, faces the aforementioned opposing substrate; and A transparent second cover component has the aforementioned second surface facing the aforementioned array substrate, and the width of the second cover component in the aforementioned first direction is greater than the width of the first cover component in the aforementioned first direction. The aforementioned second cover component has a first protrusion and a second protrusion; The first protrusion, when viewed in a planar view, protrudes from the array substrate in a direction opposite to the first direction. The second protrusion protrudes from the array substrate toward the first direction when viewed in a planar view; The array substrate described above is located between the first protrusion and the second protrusion when viewed in a planar view; The above-mentioned frame has: The first frame overlaps with a portion of the aforementioned first protrusion; and The second frame overlaps with a portion of the aforementioned second protrusion.

5. The display device as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that, The first frame described above has a first slit through which a portion of the first protrusion described above passes; The second frame has a second slit through which a portion of the second protrusion passes.

6. The display device as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that, The first frame and the second frame mentioned above are each formed from a single component.

7. The display device as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that, The main body faces the plurality of light sources and has a recess that is recessed in a direction away from the plurality of light sources.

8. The display device as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that, It also has: The circuit board overlaps with the aforementioned mounting area; and A flexible circuit board is connected to the aforementioned terminals and the aforementioned circuit board.

9. The display device as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that, The second cover component is located between the array substrate and the circuit substrate.

10. The display device as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that, The aforementioned main body has: The first component overlaps the mounting area from the first surface side; and The second component overlaps the mounting area from the second side described above. A first opening is formed between the first component and the second component, through which the display panel passes.

11. The display device as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that, The second component is located between the second cover component and the circuit board.

12. The display device as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that, The aforementioned housing also includes a substrate cover that covers the aforementioned circuit board; The aforementioned circuit board is located between the aforementioned second component and the aforementioned substrate cover; The aforementioned substrate cover has a second opening through which the aforementioned flexible circuit substrate passes.

13. A housing for supporting a display panel having a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a mounting area including terminals, wherein the background of the second surface is visible from the first surface and the background of the first surface is visible from the second surface, characterized in that... The aforementioned housing has: The main body covers the aforementioned installation area; and The transparent frame is connected to the main body.

14. The housing as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, The main body facing the mounting area has a recess that is recessed in a direction away from the mounting area.

15. The housing as claimed in claim 14, characterized in that, The aforementioned display panel also has multiple light sources arranged along the aforementioned mounting area; The aforementioned main body has: The first component overlaps the mounting area from the first surface side; and The second component overlaps the mounting area from the second side described above. The first component described above has the aforementioned recess; The aforementioned recess faces the aforementioned plurality of light sources and is recessed in a direction away from the aforementioned plurality of light sources.

16. The housing as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, The above-mentioned display panel also has: An array substrate having pixel electrodes; Opposing substrate, facing the aforementioned array substrate; The liquid crystal layer, disposed between the array substrate and the opposing substrate, is a polymer-dispersed liquid crystal. A transparent first cover component, having the aforementioned first surface, faces the aforementioned opposing substrate; and A transparent second cover component has the aforementioned second surface facing the aforementioned array substrate, and the width of the second cover component in the length direction of the aforementioned mounting area, i.e., the first direction, is greater than the width of the first cover component in the aforementioned first direction. The aforementioned second cover component has a first protrusion and a second protrusion; The first protrusion, when viewed in a planar view, protrudes from the array substrate in a direction opposite to the first direction. The second protrusion protrudes from the array substrate toward the first direction when viewed in a planar view; The array substrate described above is located between the first protrusion and the second protrusion when viewed in a planar view; The above-mentioned frame has: The first frame overlaps with a portion of the aforementioned first protrusion and extends in a second direction intersecting the aforementioned first direction; as well as The second frame overlaps with a portion of the aforementioned second protrusion and extends in the aforementioned second direction.

17. The housing as claimed in claim 16, characterized in that, The first frame described above has a first slit through which a portion of the first protrusion described above passes; The second frame has a second slit through which a portion of the second protrusion passes.

18. The housing as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that, The first frame described above has a first stop portion in the first slit described above; The second frame described above has a second stop in the second slit described above; The first stop portion is located on the side of the first slit opposite to the main body portion and is opposite to the first protrusion portion. The second stop portion is located on the side opposite to the main body portion of the second slit and is opposite to the second protrusion.

19. The housing as claimed in claim 16, characterized in that, The aforementioned main body has: The first component overlaps the mounting area from the first surface side; and The second component overlaps the mounting area from the second side described above. A first opening is formed between the first component and the second component, through which the display panel passes.

20. The housing as claimed in claim 19, characterized in that, It also has a substrate cover; The above display panel has: The circuit board overlaps with the aforementioned mounting area; and A flexible circuit board is connected to the aforementioned mounting area and the aforementioned circuit board. The aforementioned substrate cover covers the aforementioned circuit board and has a second opening through which the aforementioned flexible circuit board passes.

Images