Display device including viewing angle control unit

Abstract

To provide a display device including a viewing angle control unit capable of limiting a traveling path of light.SOLUTION: A display device may include a liquid crystal panel located on a backlight unit. The backlight unit may include a second light guide plate located on a first light guide plate. A viewing angle control unit may be located between the first light guide plate and the second light guide plate. The liquid crystal panel may include a first display area and a second display area. The viewing angle control unit may include a light shielding pattern overlapping the first display area. The second display area of the liquid crystal panel may be located outside the light shielding pattern. Thus, in the display device, a first image provided to a user located in a specific direction and a second image shared with persons around the user are realized simultaneously, and the persons around the user may not recognize the first image.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a display device including a viewing angle control unit that can limit the travel path of light. [Background technology]

[0002] Generally, a display device displays an image. For example, the display device may include a liquid crystal panel disposed on a backlight unit. The backlight unit may supply light to the liquid crystal panel. For example, the backlight unit may include at least one light source element. The liquid crystal panel may display a specific image using an electric field formed between a pixel electrode and a common electrode. For example, the liquid crystal panel may include a liquid crystal layer disposed between a first display substrate and a second display substrate.

[0003] The display device can be installed in various locations. For example, the display device can be mounted inside a vehicle. The display device can display a first image provided to a passenger in the passenger seat and / or a second image including information necessary for driving. The second image can be displayed simultaneously with the first image. For example, in the display device, the liquid crystal panel can include a first display area for displaying the first image and a second display area for displaying the second image.

[0004] The first display area and the second display area may be positioned side by side. For example, the first display area may be positioned in front of the passenger seat, and the second display area may be positioned between the driver's seat and the passenger seat. As a result, the first image provided by the display device may distract the driver's gaze. That is, the first image provided to a user positioned in a specific direction by the display device may distract the gaze of people around the user, which may result in an accident. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention provides a display device that can prevent accidents caused by distraction of the user's gaze from people around the user.

[0006] Another problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a display device that simultaneously displays a first image and a second image, but in which the first image can only be recognized in a specific direction.

[0007] The problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above. Problems not mentioned here will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

[0008] A display device according to the technical idea of ​​the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned object includes a backlight unit. The backlight unit includes a first light guide plate and a second light guide plate. The second light guide plate is located on the first light guide plate. A liquid crystal panel is located on the second light guide plate of the backlight. The liquid crystal panel includes a first display region and a second display region. A first viewing angle control unit is located between the first light guide plate and the second light guide plate of the backlight unit. The first viewing angle control unit includes a first light-blocking pattern extending in a first direction. The first light-blocking pattern is arranged to correspond to the first display region. The second display region of the liquid crystal panel is located outside the first light-blocking pattern in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0009] The second display area can be in contact with the first display area, and a boundary line between the first display area and the second display area can extend in a first direction.

[0010] A first light source element may be disposed on a side of the first light guide plate, and a second light source element may be disposed on a side of the second light guide plate.

[0011] The first light source element can be mounted on a first circuit board, the second light source element can be mounted on a second circuit board, and the second circuit board can be spaced apart from the first circuit board in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions.

[0012] The second light source element can be positioned alongside the first light source element in the third direction.

[0013] The first display area of ​​the liquid crystal panel can be located near the first light source element and the second light source element.

[0014] A second viewing angle control unit may be disposed between the second light guide plate of the backlight unit and the liquid crystal panel, and the second viewing angle control unit may include a second light blocking pattern extending in a second direction.

[0015] The second light-blocking pattern can overlap the first display area and the second display area of ​​the liquid crystal panel.

[0016] The first viewing angle control unit may further include a relaxation region overlapping a boundary line between the first display region and the second display region, and at least one dummy pattern may be located within the relaxation region, and the thickness of the dummy pattern may be thinner than that of each of the first light-blocking patterns.

[0017] The dummy pattern of the first viewing angle control unit can extend in a first direction.

[0018] To achieve another object of the present invention, a display device according to the technical concept of the present invention includes a first light guide plate. A first light source element is located on one side of the first light guide plate. A second light guide plate is located above the first light guide plate. The second light guide plate overlaps the first light guide plate. A viewing angle control unit is located between the first and second light guide plates. The viewing angle control unit includes a narrow viewing angle region and a wide viewing angle region. A light blocking pattern is located in the narrow viewing angle region. The wide viewing angle region is located outside the light blocking pattern. A liquid crystal panel is located above the second light guide plate. The liquid crystal panel includes a first display region and a second display region. The narrow viewing angle region of the viewing angle control unit overlaps with the first display region of the liquid crystal panel. The wide viewing angle region of the viewing angle control unit overlaps with the second display region of the liquid crystal panel. A second light source element is located on one side of the second light guide plate.

[0019] The light-blocking pattern may extend in a first direction. The second display area may be positioned adjacent to the first display area in the second direction. The second direction may be perpendicular to the first direction. The length of the narrow viewing angle area in the second direction may be the same as the length of the wide viewing angle area in the second direction.

[0020] The viewing angle control unit may further include a dummy light-shielding layer corresponding to the wide viewing angle region, and the dummy light-shielding layer may be smaller than the light-shielding pattern.

[0021] The dummy light-shielding layer may contain the same material as the light-shielding pattern.

[0022] The dummy light-shielding layer corresponds to the wide viewing angle region and can be disposed extending in the first and second directions. That is, it can be thinly coated and disposed corresponding to the wide viewing angle region. The amount of light transmitted through the light-shielding pattern of the viewing angle control pattern can be substantially the same as the amount of light transmitted through the dummy light-shielding layer.

[0023] A display device according to the technical concept of the present invention includes a viewing angle control unit located between a first light guide plate and a second light guide plate of a backlight unit, and a liquid crystal panel located on the second light guide plate of the backlight unit, the liquid crystal panel including a first display region and a second display region, and the viewing angle control unit may include a light-shielding pattern overlapping the first display region and be located outside the light-shielding pattern. As a result, in the display device according to the technical concept of the present invention, a first image displayed in the first display region may be selectively hidden from surrounding people. Therefore, the display device according to the technical concept of the present invention can prevent accidents caused by surrounding people's lines of sight being scattered. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a location where a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed; [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating a cross section of a liquid crystal panel and a cross section of a viewing angle control unit in a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 3 is a diagram illustrating the direction of light travel in a backlight unit of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 5] 3 is a diagram illustrating the direction of light travel in a backlight unit of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 6] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing a cross section of a liquid crystal panel and a cross section of a viewing angle control unit in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing a cross section of a liquid crystal panel and a cross section of a viewing angle control unit in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 10 is a diagram illustrating a backlight unit of a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9]10 is a diagram schematically illustrating a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing a cross section of a liquid crystal panel and a cross section of a viewing angle control unit in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing a cross section of a liquid crystal panel and a cross section of a viewing angle control unit in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing a cross section of a liquid crystal panel and a cross section of a viewing angle control unit in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing a cross section of a liquid crystal panel and a cross section of a viewing angle control unit in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing a cross section of a liquid crystal panel and a cross section of a viewing angle control unit in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing a cross section of a liquid crystal panel and a cross section of a viewing angle control unit in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing a cross section of a liquid crystal panel and a cross section of a viewing angle control unit in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing a cross section of a liquid crystal panel and a cross section of a viewing angle control unit in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] The purpose, technical structure, and operational effects of the present invention will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings illustrating embodiments of the present invention. The embodiments of the present invention are provided to fully convey the technical concept of the present invention to those skilled in the art, and therefore the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments, and may be embodied in other forms.

[0026] Furthermore, parts denoted by the same reference numerals throughout the specification refer to the same components, and the lengths and thicknesses of layers or regions in the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity. Note that when a first component is described as being "on" a second component, this does not only mean that the first component is located above and in direct contact with the second component, but also includes the case where a third component is located between the first and second components.

[0027] Here, the terms "first," "second," etc. are used to describe various components and to distinguish one component from another, but the first component and the second component may be named as desired for the convenience of those skilled in the art without departing from the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0028] The terms used in the present specification are merely used to describe particular embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. For example, a component expressed in the singular includes a plurality of components unless the context clearly indicates the singular component alone.

[0029] Furthermore, in the specification of the present invention, the terms "comprise" or "have" and the like are intended to specify the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described above in the specification, and should be understood not to preclude the presence or possibility of addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0030] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains. Terms defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as meanings consistent with the meanings they have in the context of the relevant art, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined in the specification of the present invention.

[0031] Example Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a location where a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed, Fig. 2 is a diagram showing a schematic view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 3 is a diagram showing a cross section of a liquid crystal panel and a cross section of a viewing angle control unit in a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] 1 to 3, a display device DP according to an embodiment of the present invention can be installed in an automobile. The display device DP can include a liquid crystal panel 100. The liquid crystal panel 100 can display an image using an electric field formed between a pixel electrode and a common electrode. For example, the liquid crystal panel 100 can include a liquid crystal layer disposed between a first display substrate and a second display substrate. The liquid crystal layer can include IPS mode, ECB mode, or TN mode liquid crystal.

[0033] The display device DP may implement a first image for a passenger in the passenger seat and / or a second image including information necessary for driving. The second image may be implemented simultaneously with the first image. For example, the LCD panel 100 may include a first display area CA and a second display area IA. The first image may be implemented in the first display area CA, and the second image may be implemented in the second display area IA. The second display area IA may be positioned adjacent to the first display area CA in the first direction X. For example, the first display area CA of the LCD panel 100 may be positioned in front of the passenger seat PS, and the second display area IA of the LCD panel 100 may be positioned between the passenger seat PS and the driver's seat DS. The length of the second display area IA may be the same as the length of the first display area CA in the first direction X. The second display area IA may be in direct contact with the first display area CA. For example, the boundary line between the first display area CA and the second display area IA may extend in a third direction Z different from the first direction X.

[0034] The liquid crystal panel 100 may be disposed on the backlight unit 200. For example, the liquid crystal panel 100 and the backlight unit 200 may be stacked in a second direction Y perpendicular to the first direction X. The backlight unit 200 may supply light to the liquid crystal panel 100. For example, the liquid crystal panel 100 may realize the first and second images using the light supplied from the backlight unit 200. A first linear polarizer 310 and a second linear polarizer 320 may be stacked on the backlight unit 200. The transmission axis of the second linear polarizer 320 may be perpendicular to the transmission axis of the first linear polarizer 310. For example, the liquid crystal panel 100 may be disposed between the first linear polarizer 310 and the second linear polarizer 320.

[0035] The backlight unit 200 may include a first light source member 210, a first light guide plate 220, a second light source member 250, and a second light guide plate 260. The first light source member 210 may emit light toward the inside of the first light guide plate 220. For example, the first light source member 210 may be positioned at a side of the first light guide plate 220. The second light source member 250 may emit light toward the inside of the second light guide plate 260. For example, the second light source member 250 may be positioned at a side of the second light guide plate 260. The second light guide plate 260 may be positioned above the first light guide plate 220. An upper surface of the first light guide plate 220 may extend in the first direction X and the third direction Z. The third direction Z may be perpendicular to the first direction X and the second direction Y. For example, the third direction Z may be a direction FW toward a front window of a vehicle in which the display device DP is installed.

[0036] The first light guide plate 220 and the second light guide plate 260 may function as a surface light source. For example, the second light guide plate 260 may overlap the first light guide plate 220. As a result, in the display device according to this embodiment, light incident on the first light guide plate 220 by the first light source member 210 may be supplied to the liquid crystal panel 100 through the upper surface of the second light guide plate 260. The liquid crystal panel 100 may be located above the second light guide plate 260.

[0037] The first light source member 210 may include a plurality of first light source elements 211 and a first circuit board 212. The first light source elements 211 may be mounted on the first circuit board 212. The second light source member 250 may include a plurality of second light source elements 251 and a second circuit board 252. The second light source elements 251 may be mounted on the second circuit board 252.

[0038] The second light source member 250 may be positioned above the first light source member 210 in the second direction Y. For example, the first light source member 210 may be positioned to a side of the first light guide plate 220 facing the first direction X, and the second light source member 250 may be positioned to a side of the second light guide plate 260 facing the first direction X. The first light source member 210 and the second light source member 250 may be independently controlled. For example, the second circuit board 252 may be positioned above the first circuit board 212 in the second direction Y. The second light source element 251 may be positioned adjacent to the first light source element 211 in the second direction Y.

[0039] The first light source elements 211 may be positioned adjacent to one side of the first light guide plate 220. The second light source elements 251 may be positioned adjacent to one side of the second light guide plate 260. For example, the first display area CA of the liquid crystal panel 100 may be positioned close to the first light source elements 211 and the second light source elements 251.

[0040] The backlight unit 200 may further include a reflector 240 positioned on a lower surface of the first light guide plate 220. For example, the first light guide plate 220 may be positioned between the reflector 240 and the second light guide plate 260. The reflector 240 may include a material with high reflectivity. For example, the reflector 240 may include a metal such as aluminum (Al) or silver (Ag). As a result, in the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, light emitted through the lower surface of the first light guide plate 220 may be reflected toward the upper surface of the first light guide plate 220 by the reflector 240. Therefore, the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention may improve light efficiency.

[0041] The backlight unit 200 may include a plurality of optical sheets 230 and 270. The optical sheets 230 and 270 may enable light emitted through the top surface of the first light guide plate 220 and light emitted through the top surface of the second light guide plate 260 to have uniform characteristics. For example, the optical sheets 230 and 270 may include a first optical sheet 230 positioned between the first light guide plate 220 and the second light guide plate 260, and a second optical sheet 270 positioned between the second light guide plate 260 and the first linear polarizer 310.

[0042] The characteristics of light emitted through the upper surface of the first light guide plate 220 may be made uniform overall by the first optical sheet 230. For example, the first optical sheet 230 may have a stacked structure of a first diffusion sheet 231 and a first prism sheet 232. The characteristics of light emitted through the upper surface of the second light guide plate 260 may be made uniform overall by the second optical sheet 270. The second optical sheet 270 may have the same stacked structure as the first optical sheet 230. For example, the second optical sheet 270 may have a stacked structure of a second diffusion sheet 271 and a second prism sheet 272.

[0043] A viewing angle control unit 400 may be located between the first light guide plate 220 and the second light guide plate 260 of the backlight unit 200. For example, the viewing angle control unit 400 may be located between the first optical sheet 230 and the second light guide plate 260. The viewing angle control unit 400 may partially restrict the traveling direction of light passing through the first optical sheet 230. For example, the viewing angle control unit 400 may include a narrow viewing angle region 401 where a shading pattern 430 is located and a wide viewing angle region 402 located outside the shading pattern 430.

[0044] The light-blocking patterns 430 may include a material capable of blocking light. For example, the light-blocking patterns 430 may include a black dye such as carbon black. The light-blocking patterns 430 may extend in parallel to one side.

[0045] That is, in the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, the light blocking pattern 430 may limit the traveling path of light passing through the narrow viewing angle region 401 of the viewing angle control unit 400. For example, each light blocking pattern 430 may extend in the third direction Z between the first control board 410 and the second control board 420. As a result, in the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, the viewing angle in the first direction X may be limited by the narrow viewing angle region 401 of the viewing angle control unit 400. Therefore, in the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, an image formed by light passing through the narrow viewing angle region 401 of the viewing angle control unit 400 may not be recognized by people nearby in the first direction X. For example, in the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, an image formed by light passing through the narrow viewing angle region 401 may not be recognized by the driver.

[0046] The narrow viewing angle region 401 of the viewing angle control unit 400 may overlap the first display region CA of the LCD panel 100. For example, in the display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, a first image provided by the first display region CA of the LCD panel 100 may be an image realized by light passing through the narrow viewing angle region 401 of the viewing angle control unit 400. As a result, in the display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, an image that is not recognized by the driver sitting in the driver's seat DS may be realized in the first display region CA of the LCD panel 100. Therefore, the display device according to an embodiment of the present invention can prevent the driver's line of sight from being scattered.

[0047] The light-blocking patterns 430 may be surrounded by a pattern insulating film 440. For example, the pattern insulating film 440 may be located between the first control substrate 410 and the second control substrate 420, and each light-blocking pattern 430 may cross the pattern insulating film 440 in the third direction Z. As a result, in the display device according to this embodiment, light emitted through the top surface of the first light guide plate 220 may pass through the pattern insulating film 440 of the viewing angle control unit 400 and enter the second light guide plate 260. The pattern insulating film 440 may include an insulating material. The pattern insulating film 440 may include a transparent material. The refractive index of the pattern insulating film 440 may be substantially the same as the refractive index of the first control substrate 410 and the refractive index of the second control substrate 420. Therefore, in the display device according to this embodiment, light loss due to the refractive index difference between the first control substrate 410 and the pattern insulating film 440 and the refractive index difference between the pattern insulating film 440 and the second control substrate 420 is minimized.

[0048] The thickness of the pattern insulating film 440 may be the same as the thickness of each light-blocking pattern 430. For example, the second control board 420 may be positioned parallel to the first control board 410. In the narrow viewing angle region 401, the space between the first control board 410 and the second control board 420 may be completely filled with the light-blocking pattern 430 and the pattern insulating film 440. As a result, in the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, deformation of the viewing angle control unit 400 due to external impact is prevented. Furthermore, in the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, image distortion due to light passing through the viewing angle control unit 400 is prevented.

[0049] Only the first control substrate 410, the second control substrate 420, and the pattern insulating film 440 may be located in the wide viewing angle region 402 of the viewing angle control unit 400. For example, the space between the first control substrate 410 and the second control substrate 420 in the wide viewing angle region 402 may be completely filled with the pattern insulating film 440. As a result, in the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, the traveling path of light passing through the wide viewing angle region 402 of the viewing angle control unit 400 may not be restricted. Therefore, in the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, an image formed by light passing through the wide viewing angle region 402 of the viewing angle control unit 400 can be recognized by surrounding people.

[0050] The wide viewing angle region 402 of the viewing angle control unit 400 may overlap the second display region IA of the LCD panel 100. For example, in the display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, a second image provided by the second display region IA of the LCD panel 100 may be realized by light passing through the light viewing angle region 402 of the viewing angle control unit 400. As a result, in the display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the second image can be recognized by the driver. Therefore, in the display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the second image can be shared with the driver and the person sitting in the passenger seat.

[0051] The wide viewing angle region 402 may be positioned next to the narrow viewing angle region 401 in the first direction X. The length of the wide viewing angle region 402 may be the same as the length of the narrow viewing angle region 401 in the first direction X. The wide viewing angle region 402 may be in direct contact with the narrow viewing angle region 401. The length of the narrow viewing angle region 401 may be the same as the length of the first display region CA in the first direction X. The length of the wide viewing angle region 402 may be the same as the length of the second display region IA in the first direction X. For example, the length of the viewing angle control unit 400 may be the same as the length of the liquid crystal panel 100 in the first direction X. A boundary line between the narrow viewing angle region 401 and the wide viewing angle region 402 may overlap with a boundary line between the first display region CA and the second display region IA. For example, the boundary between the narrow viewing angle region 401 and the wide viewing angle region 402 may extend in the third direction Z.

[0052] In the display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the first image displayed in the first display area CA of the liquid crystal panel 100 may be selectively restricted. For example, the display device according to an embodiment of the present invention may control whether or not the first image is shared using the second light source member 250.

[0053] 4 is a diagram showing the direction of light traveling in the backlight unit 200 when the viewing angle of an image displayed by the first display area CA of the liquid crystal panel 100 is limited in a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the direction of light traveling in the backlight unit 200 when the viewing angle of an image displayed by the first display area CA of the liquid crystal panel 100 is not limited in a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] 1 to 4, in the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, when the second light source member 250 is not operated, only light that has passed through the narrow viewing angle region 401 of the viewing angle control unit 400 is provided to the first display area CA of the liquid crystal panel 100, and only light that has passed through the wide viewing angle region 402 of the viewing angle control unit 400 is provided to the second display area IA of the liquid crystal panel 100. As a result, in the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, the first image displayed in the first display area CA of the liquid crystal panel 100 is not recognized by the driver, and the second image displayed in the second display area IA of the liquid crystal panel 100 can be shared by the driver and the person sitting in the passenger seat.

[0055] 1 to 3 and 5, in the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, when the second light source member 250 is operated, light that has passed through the narrow viewing angle region 401 of the viewing angle control unit 400 and light supplied to the second light guide plate 260 by the second light source member 250 is provided to the first display region CA of the liquid crystal panel 100, and light that has passed through the wide viewing angle region 402 of the viewing angle control unit 400 and light supplied to the second light guide plate 260 by the second light source member 250 is provided to the second display region IA of the liquid crystal panel 100. That is, in the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, when the second light source member 250 is operated, light that has not passed through the narrow viewing angle region 401 of the viewing angle control unit 400 is provided to the first display region CA of the liquid crystal panel 100. Therefore, in the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, the first image displayed in the first display area CA and the second image displayed in the second display area IA can both be recognized by the driver and the person sitting in the passenger seat. For example, in the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, when the second light source member 250 is operated, one large image shared by the driver and the person sitting in the passenger seat is displayed in the first display area CA and the second display area IA of the liquid crystal panel 100.

[0056] As a result, the display device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes the viewing angle control unit 400 located between the first light guide plate 220 and the second light guide plate 260 of the backlight unit 200 and the liquid crystal panel 100 located on the second light guide plate 260 of the backlight unit 200, the liquid crystal panel 100 including the first display area CA and the second display area IA located side by side in the first direction X, the viewing angle control unit 400 including the narrow viewing angle area 401 and the wide viewing angle area 402 having the light blocking pattern 430, the narrow viewing angle area 401 of the viewing angle control unit 400 overlapping with the first display area CA of the liquid crystal panel 100, and the wide viewing angle area 402 of the viewing angle control unit 400 overlapping with the second display area IA of the liquid crystal panel 100. As a result, in the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, the first image displayed in the first display area CA of the LCD panel 100 may be selectively hidden from the driver by the operation of the second light source member 250 that supplies light to the second light guide plate 260. That is, in the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, the viewing angle of the first image displayed in the first display area CA of the LCD panel 100 may be selectively limited. Therefore, in the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, the line of sight of surrounding people due to the first image displayed in the first display area CA of the LCD panel 100 may be selectively blocked. For example, the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention may prevent accidents caused by the driver's distracted line of sight.

[0057] In the display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the length of the second display region IA is described as being the same as the length of the first display region CA in the first direction X. However, in the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the length of the second display region IA may be different from the length of the first display region CA in the first direction X. For example, in the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the length of the second display region IA may be smaller than the length of the first display region CA in the first direction X.

[0058] The display device according to the embodiment of the present invention is described as being installed in a vehicle. However, the display device according to the other embodiment of the present invention can be installed in various devices. For example, the display device according to the other embodiment of the present invention can be used as an advertisement board to provide a large image to people around. In the display device according to the other embodiment of the present invention, the first display area CA, which is smaller than the second display area IA, can function as a monitor for modifying and changing the image to be displayed. As a result, the display device according to the other embodiment of the present invention allows modification and change of the image to be shared with people around without adding a display panel.

[0059] In a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, a luminance difference between the first image formed in the first display area CA of the liquid crystal panel 100 and the second image formed in the second display area IA of the liquid crystal panel 100 may be reduced by a light-blocking pattern 430. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the viewing angle control unit 400 may include a relaxation area 403 located between the narrow viewing angle area 401 and the wide viewing angle area 402. The relaxation area 403 may be in direct contact with the narrow viewing angle area 401 and the wide viewing angle area 402. The relaxation area 403 of the viewing angle control unit 400 may overlap a boundary line between the first display area CA and the second display area IA. For example, in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the length of the narrow viewing angle area 401 may be smaller than the length of the first display area CA in the first direction X, and the length of the wide viewing angle area 402 may be smaller than the length of the second display area IA in the first direction X.

[0060] At least one dummy pattern 450 may be positioned within the relaxation region 403 of the viewing angle control unit 400. The dummy pattern 450 may include a material capable of blocking light. For example, the dummy pattern 450 may include a black dye such as carbon black. The dummy pattern 450 may include the same material as the light-blocking pattern 430.

[0061] The dummy patterns 450 may have a smaller thickness or length than each of the light-blocking patterns 430. For example, the thickness 450t of the dummy patterns 450 may be smaller than the vertical distance between the first control board 410 and the second control board 420. The dummy patterns 450 may be spaced apart from the first control board 410 or the second control board 420. For example, the dummy patterns 450 may contact the second control board 420, and the first control board 410 may be spaced apart from the dummy patterns 450. The dummy patterns 450 may extend in the same direction as the light-blocking patterns 430. For example, the dummy patterns 450 may extend in the third direction Z. As a result, in the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the viewing angle of light incident on the relaxation region 403 may be limited by the dummy patterns 450. The viewing angle of light passing through the relaxation region 403 may be between the viewing angle of light passing through the narrow viewing angle region 401 and the viewing angle of light passing through the wide viewing angle region 402. That is, in the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the brightness difference between the light passing through the narrow viewing angle region 401 and the light passing through the wide viewing angle region 402 may be mitigated by the light passing through the relaxation region 403. Therefore, in the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, when the first display region CA and the second display region IA implement one large image, the boundary between the first display region CA and the second display region IA may not be recognized by a user.

[0062] The length of the relaxation region 403 may be smaller than the length of the narrow viewing angle region 401 in the first direction X and the length of the wide viewing angle region 402 in the first direction X. As a result, in the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, when the second light source member 250 is not operating, the relaxation region 403 can prevent the first image implemented in the first display region CA from being recognized by surrounding people. Therefore, in the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the relaxation region 403 can prevent line-of-sight dispersion.

[0063] 7, in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, a dummy light-shielding layer 460 may be positioned in the wide viewing angle region 402 of the viewing angle control unit 400. A thickness 460t of the dummy light-shielding layer 460 may be smaller than the thickness of each light-shielding pattern 430. For example, a thickness 450t of the dummy light-shielding layer 460 may be smaller than the vertical distance between the first control substrate 410 and the second control substrate 420. For example, the dummy light-shielding layer 460 may contact the second control substrate 420, and the first control substrate 410 may be spaced apart from the dummy light-shielding layer 460. The wide viewing angle region 402 of the second control substrate 420 may be completely covered by the dummy light-shielding layer 460. For example, the length of the dummy light-shielding layer 460 may be the same as the length of the wide viewing angle region 402 in the first direction X. The dummy light-shielding layer 460 may extend in the same direction as the light-shielding pattern 430. For example, the dummy light-shielding layer 460 may extend in the third direction Z.

[0064] The dummy light-shielding layer 460 may include a material capable of reducing light transmission. For example, the dummy light-shielding layer 460 may include a black dye such as carbon black. The dummy light-shielding layer 460 may have a thickness smaller than that of the light-shielding patterns 430. Light passing through the dummy light-shielding layer 460 may have substantially the same brightness as light passing through the narrow viewing angle region 401. The dummy light-shielding layer 460 may include the same material as the light-shielding patterns 430. As a result, in the display device according to this embodiment, light passing through the wide viewing angle region 402 may have substantially the same color as light passing through the narrow viewing angle region 401. That is, in the display device according to this embodiment, the dummy light-shielding layer 460 may reduce a color difference between an image formed in the first display area CA and an image formed in the second display area IA. Furthermore, in the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, when one large image is displayed using the first display area CA and the second display area IA, the user's perception of the boundary between the first display area CA and the second display area IA can be reduced by the dummy light-blocking layer 460. Therefore, in the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the quality of the image displayed by the liquid crystal panel 100 can be improved.

[0065] In the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, the first display area CA of the liquid crystal panel 100 is positioned close to the first light source member 210 and the second light source member 250.

[0066] 8, in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the first light source member 210 may be located on a side of the first light guide plate 220 that is close to the second display area IA of the liquid crystal panel 100, and the second light source member 250 may be located on a side of the second light guide plate 260 that is close to the second display area IA of the liquid crystal panel 100. As a result, in the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the degree of freedom in the arrangement of the first light source member 210 and the second light source member 250 may be improved.

[0067] In the display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the first light source member 210 is disposed on one side of the first light guide plate 220, and the second light source member 250 is disposed on one side of the second light guide plate 260. However, in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the first light source member 210 may be disposed on at least two sides of the first light guide plate 220, and the second light source member 250 may be disposed on at least two sides of the second light guide plate 260. For example, in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the first light source member 210 may be disposed on a side of the first light guide plate 220 near the first display area CA and a side of the first light guide plate 220 near the second display area IA, and the second light source member 250 may be disposed on a side of the second light guide plate 260 near the first display area CA and a side of the second light guide plate 260 near the second display area IA. As a result, the amount of light supplied to the liquid crystal panel 100 can be increased in the display device according to the other embodiment of the present invention. Therefore, in the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the brightness of the image displayed by the liquid crystal panel 100 can be improved.

[0068] In the display device according to this embodiment of the present invention, the second light source member 250 is described as being adjacent to the first light source member 210 in the second direction Y. However, in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the second light source member 250 may be spaced apart from the first light source member 210 in the first direction X or the third direction Y. For example, in a display device according to this embodiment of the present invention, the first light source member 210 may be located on a side of the first light guide plate 220 close to the first display area CA, and the second light source member 250 may be located on a side of the second light guide plate 260 close to the second display area IA. As a result, the display device according to this embodiment of the present invention may have improved flexibility in the relative positions of the first light source member 210 and the second light source member 250. In the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, one viewing angle control unit 400 is disposed between the first light guide plate 220 and the liquid crystal panel 100. However, a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention may include multiple viewing angle control units 400. For example, as shown in FIG. 9 , in the display device according to the other embodiment of the present invention, a first viewing angle control unit 400 may be disposed between the first light guide plate 220 and the second light guide plate 260 of the backlight unit 200, and a second viewing angle control unit 500 may be disposed between the second light guide plate 260 of the backlight unit 200 and the liquid crystal panel 100.

[0069] The first viewing angle control unit 400 may include a narrow viewing angle region in which a first light-shielding pattern extending in the third direction Z is located and a wide viewing angle region located outside the first light-shielding pattern. The first light-shielding pattern may be surrounded by a first pattern insulating film. The first pattern insulating film may extend between the first control substrate and the second control substrate in the wide viewing angle region. For example, the space between the wide viewing angle region of the first control substrate and the wide viewing angle region of the second control substrate may be completely filled with the first pattern insulating film.

[0070] The second viewing angle control unit 500 may include a second light-blocking pattern 530 disposed between the third control substrate 510 and the fourth control substrate 520 and a second pattern insulating film 540 surrounding the second light-blocking pattern 530. The second light-blocking pattern 530 may extend in the first direction X. For example, the second light-blocking pattern 530 may extend in a direction perpendicular to the first light-blocking pattern. The second light-blocking pattern 530 may completely cross the liquid crystal panel 100 in the first direction X. For example, the second light-blocking pattern 530 may overlap the first display region and the second display region of the liquid crystal panel 100. As a result, in the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the viewing angle of light supplied from the backlight unit 200 to the first display region and the second display region of the liquid crystal panel 100 may be limited by the second viewing angle control unit 500. That is, in the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the viewing angle in the third direction Z can be limited by the second viewing angle control unit 500. For example, the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention can prevent an image displayed by the liquid crystal panel 100 from being reflected by the front window. Therefore, the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention can effectively prevent accidents caused by people in the vicinity distracting their gazes.

[0071] In the display device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the thickness of each light-blocking pattern 430 is described as being equal to the vertical distance between the first control substrate 410 and the second control substrate 420. However, in display devices according to other embodiments of the present invention, each light-blocking pattern 430 may be spaced apart from the first control substrate 410 or the second control substrate 420. For example, as shown in FIG. 10 , in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the first control substrate 410 may contact the light-blocking pattern 430, and the light-blocking pattern 430 may be spaced apart from the second control substrate 420. The pattern insulating film 440 extends between each light-blocking pattern 430 and the second control substrate 420. The second control substrate 420 may be located between the first control substrate 410 and the LCD panel 100. For example, each light-blocking pattern 430 in the panel insulating film 440 may be disposed adjacent to a light guide plate of the backlight unit. Therefore, the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention can reduce the brightness difference between the first image implemented in the first display area CA of the liquid crystal panel 100 and the second image implemented in the second display area IA of the liquid crystal panel 100 by using the light-blocking pattern 430. That is, the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention uses the light-blocking pattern 430 to prevent accidents caused by the distraction of surrounding people's gazes, and the boundary between the first display area CA and the second display area IA may not be recognized by the user.

[0072] In a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the dummy patterns 450 in the relaxation region 430 may be located on the same control substrates 410 and 420 as the light-blocking patterns 430. For example, as shown in Fig. 11, in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the dummy patterns 450 in the relaxation region 403 may be in direct contact with the first control substrate 410. The second control substrate 420 may be spaced apart from the light-blocking patterns 430 and the dummy patterns 450.

[0073] The dummy patterns 450 may be formed using the same process as the light-blocking patterns 430. Therefore, in the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the processes for forming the light-blocking patterns 430 and the dummy patterns 450 may be simplified. Therefore, in the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, process efficiency may be improved.

[0074] In a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the light-blocking layer 460 in the wide viewing angle region 402 may be disposed on the same control substrates 410 and 420 as the light-blocking pattern 430. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the wide viewing angle region 402 of the first control substrate 410 may be covered with the light-blocking layer 460. The light-blocking layer 460 may be in direct contact with the first control substrate 410. For example, the light-blocking layer 460 may be formed simultaneously with the light-blocking pattern 430. Therefore, in the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, process efficiency may be improved.

[0075] A display device according to another embodiment of the present invention may include the relaxation patterns 470 located within the wide viewing angle region 401 of the viewing angle control unit 400. For example, as shown in FIG. 13, in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the relaxation patterns 470 may be disposed on the wide viewing angle region 401 of the first control substrate 410. The relaxation patterns 470 may be disposed at regular intervals. For example, the intervals between the relaxation patterns 470 may be the same as the intervals between the light-blocking patterns 430. The relaxation patterns 470 may be in direct contact with the first control substrate 410. For example, the pattern insulating film 440 may extend between each relaxation pattern 470 and the second control substrate 420. The relaxation patterns 470 may extend parallel to one another in one direction. The relaxation patterns 470 may extend in the same direction as the light-blocking patterns 430. For example, the relaxation patterns 470 may extend in a third direction.

[0076] The relaxation pattern 470 includes a material capable of blocking light. For example, the relaxation pattern 470 may include a black dye such as carbon black. Therefore, in the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the relaxation pattern 470 can reduce the brightness of light passing through the light viewing angle region 402 of the viewing angle control unit 400. The relaxation pattern 470 may include the same material as the light-blocking pattern 430. For example, the relaxation pattern 470 may be formed simultaneously with the light-blocking pattern 430.

[0077] A thickness 470t of each relaxation pattern 470 may be much thinner than a thickness of the light-blocking pattern 430. Therefore, in the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the traveling path of light passing through the light viewing angle region 402 of the viewing angle control unit 400 may not be significantly restricted by the relaxation pattern 470. That is, in the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, people nearby in the first direction X may recognize an image formed by light passing between the relaxation patterns 470. Therefore, in the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the viewing angle of the light viewing angle region 402 may be restricted, thereby reducing the luminance difference between light passing through the narrow viewing angle region 401 and light passing through the light viewing angle region 402.

[0078] In the display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the dummy patterns 450 in the relaxation region 403 are described as having the same thickness. However, in display devices according to other embodiments of the present invention, the dummy patterns 450 may be arranged in the relaxation region 403 with different thicknesses. For example, as shown in FIG. 14 , in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the dummy patterns 450 may include the first dummy pattern 451, a second dummy pattern 452 having a thickness smaller than that of the first dummy pattern 451, and a third dummy pattern 453 having a thickness smaller than that of the second dummy pattern 452. The first dummy pattern 451 may be arranged near the narrow viewing angle region 401. The third dummy pattern 453 may be arranged close to the wide viewing angle region 402. The second dummy pattern 452 may be located between the first dummy pattern 451 and the third dummy pattern 453. For example, in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the thickness of the dummy pattern 450 may be decreased from the narrow viewing angle region 401 toward the wide viewing angle region 402. Therefore, in the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the dummy pattern 450 can effectively reduce the luminance difference between the light passing through the narrow viewing angle region 401 and the light passing through the wide viewing angle region 402. Therefore, in the display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, when the first display region CA and the second display region IA of the liquid crystal panel 100 realize one large image, the boundary between the first display region CA and the second display region IA may not be recognized by a user.

[0079] 15, in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the dummy patterns 450 having different thicknesses may be arranged in the relaxation region 403, and the relaxation pattern 470 may be arranged in the wide viewing angle region 402. A thickness 470t of each relaxation pattern 470 may be smaller than a thickness of the third dummy pattern 453. Therefore, in a display according to another embodiment of the present invention, the boundary between the first display region CA and the second display region IA may be barely noticeable to a user.

[0080] In display devices according to other embodiments of the present invention, the light-blocking patterns 430 may be formed by various methods. For example, in display devices according to other embodiments of the present invention, the process of forming the light-blocking patterns 430 may include a process of forming a plurality of trenches in the pattern insulating film 440 and a process of filling the trenches with a light-blocking material. As shown in FIG. 16 , in display devices according to other embodiments of the present invention, a base substrate 480 may be disposed between the pattern insulating film 440 and the second control substrate 420. The base substrate 480 may support the pattern insulating film 440 during the process of forming the light-blocking patterns 430. For example, the base substrate 480 may be thicker than the first control substrate 410 and the second control substrate 420. The side surfaces of each light-blocking pattern 430 may be inclined. For example, the horizontal width of each light-blocking pattern 430 may decrease from the first control substrate 410 toward the second control substrate 420. Therefore, in display devices according to other embodiments of the present invention, the degree of freedom in the process of forming the light-blocking patterns 430 may be improved.

[0081] In the display device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the pattern insulating film 440 is described as being located between the first control substrate 410 and the second control substrate 420. However, in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the first surface of the pattern insulating film 440 facing the light guide plate and the second surface of the pattern insulating film 440 facing the LCD panel 100 may not be covered by the control substrates 410 and 420. For example, as shown in FIG. 17 , in a display device according to another embodiment of the present invention, the viewing angle control unit 400 may include the light-blocking pattern 430 located on the narrow viewing angle region 401 of the first control substrate 410 and the pattern insulating film 440 surrounding the light-blocking pattern 430. The surface of the pattern insulating film 440 facing the LCD panel 100 may be exposed. Therefore, the overall size of the display device according to this embodiment of the present invention can be reduced. Furthermore, the display device according to this embodiment of the present invention can prevent a decrease in brightness due to the second control substrate. Therefore, the display device according to this embodiment of the present invention can improve the flexibility of the configuration of the viewing angle control unit 400. [Explanation of symbols]

[0082] 100 LCD panels 200 Backlight Unit 220 1st light guide plate 260 2nd light guide plate 400 Viewing Angle Control Unit 401 Narrow viewing angle area 402 Wide viewing angle area 430 Blackout Pattern 440 Patterned insulating film CA 1st display area IA 2nd display area

Claims

1. a backlight unit including a first light guide plate and a second light guide plate positioned above the first light guide plate; a liquid crystal panel located on the second light guide plate of the backlight unit, the liquid crystal panel including a first display area and a second display area; and a first viewing angle control unit located between the first light guide plate and the second light guide plate of the backlight unit; the first viewing angle control unit includes a first light-blocking pattern extending in a first direction; The first light-blocking pattern is disposed to correspond to the first display area of ​​the display device.

2. The display device of claim 1 , wherein the second display area is in contact with the first display area, and a boundary line between the first display area and the second display area extends in the first direction.

3. The display device of claim 1 , wherein the backlight unit further comprises a first light source element positioned at a side of the first light guide plate and a second light source element positioned at a side of the second light guide plate.

4. the backlight unit further includes a first circuit board on which the first light source elements are mounted and a second circuit board on which the second light source elements are mounted; the second circuit board is spaced apart from the first circuit board in a third direction; The display device according to claim 3 , wherein the third direction is perpendicular to a plane formed by the first direction and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

5. The display device according to claim 3 , wherein the second light source element is positioned alongside the first light source element in a third direction perpendicular to a plane formed by the first direction and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

6. The display device according to claim 5 , wherein the first display area of ​​the liquid crystal panel is located near the first light source element and the second light source element.

7. Further including a second viewing angle control unit located between the second light guide plate of the backlight unit and the liquid crystal panel, The display device according to claim 1 , wherein the second viewing angle control unit includes a second light-blocking pattern extending in a second direction.

8. The display device according to claim 7 , wherein the second light-shielding pattern overlaps the first display area and the second display area of ​​the liquid crystal panel.

9. the first viewing angle control unit further includes a relaxation area overlapping a boundary line between the first display area and the second display area; the relaxation region includes at least one dummy pattern; The display device of claim 1 , wherein the dummy pattern has a thickness thinner than that of the first light-blocking pattern.

10. The display device according to claim 9 , wherein the dummy pattern of the first viewing angle control unit extends in the first direction.

11. a first light source element located on one side of the first light guide plate; a second light guide plate located above the first light guide plate and overlapping the first light guide plate; a viewing angle control unit located between the first light guide plate and the second light guide plate, the viewing angle control unit including a narrow viewing angle region in which a light blocking pattern is located, and a wide viewing angle region located outside the light blocking pattern; a liquid crystal panel located above the second light guide plate and including a first display area and a second display area; and a second light source element located on one side of the second light guide plate; the narrow viewing angle region of the viewing angle control unit overlaps with the first display region of the liquid crystal panel; A display device in which the wide viewing angle region of the viewing angle control unit overlaps with the second display region of the liquid crystal panel.

12. The light-blocking pattern extends in a first direction, the second display area is positioned next to the first display area in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, 12. The display device of claim 11, wherein a length of the narrow viewing angle region in the second direction is the same as a length of the wide viewing angle region in the second direction.

13. the viewing angle control unit further includes a dummy light-shielding layer corresponding to the wide viewing angle region; The display device of claim 11 , wherein the dummy light-shielding layer has a thickness smaller than that of the light-shielding pattern.

14. The display device of claim 13 , wherein the dummy light-shielding layer comprises the same material as the light-shielding pattern.

15. The display device of claim 13 , wherein the dummy light-shielding layer extends in the first direction and the second direction within the wide viewing angle region.

16. The display device according to claim 13 , wherein an amount of light transmitted between the light-shielding patterns of the viewing angle control unit and an amount of light transmitted through the dummy light-shielding layer are substantially the same.

Images