Display device and film

Abstract

To provide a display device and a film that can suppress deterioration of the design property.SOLUTION: In one embodiment, a display device includes a display panel including a display region to display images, and a resin layer overlapping with the display region. The resin layer includes a first region, a second region having a refractive index different from that of the first region, and a third region having a refractive index different from that of the first region and the second region and being adjacent to at least one of the first region and the second region.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a display device and a film. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, various types of display devices have been proposed. For example, a display device in which a pattern is printed in a display area using transparent ink to improve design is known. The reflectance of the patterned area is higher than the reflectance of the non-patterned area. Therefore, when the display panel is in the off state, the pattern is emphasized and can be seen.

[0003] However, because a step occurs depending on whether or not there is ink, light is scattered at the corners of the ink, and when the display panel is turned on, the pattern is visible superimposed on the displayed image, which can reduce display quality. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-100748 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a display device and a film that can suppress deterioration of design. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one embodiment, a display device comprises a display panel having a display area for displaying an image, and a resin layer overlying the display area, the resin layer having a first region, a second region having a refractive index different from that of the first region, and a third region having a refractive index different from that of the first region and the second region and adjacent to at least one of the first region and the second region.

[0007] According to one embodiment, the film comprises a substrate and a resin layer, the resin layer having a first region, a second region having a refractive index different from that of the first region, and a third region having a refractive index different from that of the first region and the second region and adjacent to at least one of the first region and the second region. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view of a display device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows a display device in which the illumination device and the display panel are in an off or on state. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of a method for forming the first region, the second region, and the third region. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic plan view showing an example of a mask. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic plan view of a display device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the film according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic plan view of the film according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14]FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a state in which a film is attached to a display device. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a film according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Some embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. The disclosure is merely an example, and appropriate modifications that a person skilled in the art can easily make while maintaining the gist of the invention are naturally included within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the drawings may be schematic in terms of the width, thickness, shape, etc. of each part compared to the actual embodiment for the sake of clarity, but these are merely examples and are not intended to limit the interpretation of the present invention. Furthermore, in this specification and each drawing, components that perform the same or similar functions as those described above with reference to the previous drawings are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant detailed descriptions may be omitted as appropriate.

[0010] In the drawings, mutually orthogonal X, Y, and Z axes are shown as necessary to facilitate 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. Viewing various elements parallel to the third direction Z is referred to as a planar view.

[0011] [First embodiment] 1 is a schematic plan view of a display device DSP according to the first embodiment. The display device DSP according to the first embodiment is a liquid crystal display device. The display device DSP includes a display panel PNL, an IC chip 5, a wiring substrate 6, and a resin layer 30. The display device DSP also includes an illumination device that illuminates the display panel PNL, as will be described later.

[0012] The display panel PNL includes a first substrate SUB1 and a second substrate SUB2. The first substrate SUB1 faces the second substrate SUB2 in the third direction Z. The first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 are formed in the shape of flat plates parallel to the XY plane. In FIG. 1, the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 each have a rectangular shape in plan view with long sides parallel to the second direction Y. However, the shapes of the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 in plan view are not limited to this example and may be other shapes such as a rectangle with long sides parallel to the first direction X, a square, a circle, or an ellipse.

[0013] The display panel PNL has a display area DA and a peripheral area SA. The display area DA is an area where an image is displayed. The display area DA has a plurality of pixels PX arranged in a matrix in the first direction X and the second direction Y. The peripheral area SA surrounds the display area DA. The peripheral area SA has a mounting portion MT. The mounting portion MT is a portion of the first substrate SUB1 that does not overlap with the second substrate SUB2.

[0014] As shown enlarged in FIG. 1, the plurality of pixels PX include a switching element SW, a pixel electrode PE, a common electrode CE, a liquid crystal layer LC, etc. The switching element SW is formed, for example, by a thin film transistor (TFT) and is electrically connected to a scanning line GL and a signal line SL. The scanning line GL is electrically connected to the switching element SW in each of the pixels PX aligned in the first direction X. The signal line SL is electrically connected to the switching element SW in each of the pixels PX aligned in the second direction Y. The pixel electrode PE is electrically connected to the switching element SW. Each pixel electrode PE faces the common electrode CE, and the liquid crystal layer LC is driven by an electric field generated between the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE. The capacitance CS is formed, for example, between an electrode having the same potential as the common electrode CE and an electrode having the same potential as the pixel electrode PE.

[0015] In one example, the scanning lines GL, signal lines SL, switching elements SW, pixel electrodes PE, and common electrode CE are provided on the first substrate SUB1, but the pixel electrodes PE may be provided on the first substrate SUB1 and the common electrode CE may be provided on the second substrate SUB2.

[0016] In the illustrated example, the IC chip 5 and wiring board 6 are mounted on a mounting portion MT. The IC chip 5 has built-in components such as a display driver that outputs signals necessary for image display. The wiring board 6 is a bendable flexible printed circuit board. The IC chip 5 may also be mounted on the wiring board 6.

[0017] The resin layer 30 overlaps the display area DA. In the illustrated example, the edge of the resin layer 30 is located between the display area DA and the end of the second substrate SUB2. The resin layer 30 may cover the entire surface of the second substrate SUB2, or may cover only the display area DA. Details of the resin layer 30 will be described later.

[0018] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display device DSP according to the first embodiment. The display panel PNL includes the above-mentioned first substrate SUB1 and second substrate SUB2, and a liquid crystal layer LC.

[0019] The first substrate SUB1 includes a transparent substrate 10, insulating layers 11 and 12, a common electrode CE, a plurality of pixel electrodes PE, and a first alignment film AL1. The first substrate SUB1 is disposed above the lighting device BL. The insulating layer 11 is disposed on the transparent substrate 10. The common electrode CE is disposed on the insulating layer 11 across a plurality of pixels PX. The insulating layer 12 is disposed on the common electrode CE. A plurality of pixel electrodes PE are disposed on the insulating layer 12 for each pixel PX. The first alignment film AL1 covers the plurality of pixel electrodes PE and the insulating layer 12. The common electrode CE may be disposed above the plurality of pixel electrodes PE. The scanning lines GL, signal lines SL, and switching elements SW shown in FIG. 1 are disposed between the transparent substrate 10 and the common electrode CE.

[0020] The second substrate SUB2 includes a transparent substrate 20 and a second alignment film AL2. The second substrate SUB2 faces the first substrate SUB1 in the third direction Z. The second alignment film AL2 is disposed below the transparent substrate 20. Although not shown, a light-shielding layer, a color filter layer, an overcoat layer, and the like may be further provided on the second substrate SUB2. However, the color filter layer may be provided on the first substrate SUB1.

[0021] The liquid crystal layer LC is disposed between the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2. In the example of Fig. 2, the liquid crystal layer LC is disposed between the first alignment film AL1 and the second alignment film AL2.

[0022] The transparent substrates 10 and 20 are insulating substrates made of, for example, glass or plastic. The insulating layer 11 is made of a transparent insulating material, and in one example, the insulating layer 11 includes an inorganic insulating layer and an organic insulating layer.

[0023] The insulating layer 12 is formed of a transparent inorganic insulating material such as silicon nitride (SiNx). The common electrode CE and the pixel electrodes PE are formed of a transparent conductive material such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO).

[0024] The first alignment film AL1 and the second alignment film AL2 are horizontal alignment films that have an alignment regulating force along the XY plane. The first alignment film AL1 and the second alignment film AL2 are photo-alignment films that are imparted with an alignment regulating force by irradiation with ultraviolet light. The first alignment film AL1 and the second alignment film AL2 may also be alignment films that have been subjected to a rubbed treatment.

[0025] The display device DSP further includes a first polarizer POL1, a second polarizer POL2, an adhesive layer AD, and a cover member CO. The first polarizer POL1 is disposed between the first substrate SUB1 and the lighting device BL. In the example of FIG. 2, the first polarizer POL1 is bonded to the lower surface of the first substrate SUB1. Specifically, the first polarizer POL1 is bonded to the lower surface 10L of the transparent substrate 10. The second polarizer POL2 is disposed between the second substrate SUB2 and the resin layer 30. In the example of FIG. 2, the second polarizer POL2 is bonded to the upper surface of the second substrate SUB2. Specifically, the second polarizer POL2 is bonded to the upper surface 20U of the transparent substrate 20. The polarization axes of the first polarizer POL1 and the second polarizer POL2 are orthogonal to each other in, for example, the XY plane.

[0026] The resin layer 30 is disposed on the opposite side of the liquid crystal layer LC with the second substrate SUB2 sandwiched therebetween. The resin layer 30 is also disposed on the opposite side of the display panel PNL with the second polarizer POL2 sandwiched therebetween. The adhesive layer AD bonds the lower surface 30L of the resin layer 30 to the upper surface POL2U of the second polarizer POL2. The adhesive layer AD is formed of a transparent material such as OCA (Optical Clear Adhesive) or OCR (Optical Clear Resin). The refractive index of the adhesive layer AD is approximately 1.4 to 1.55.

[0027] The resin layer 30 is made of a material whose refractive index changes when irradiated with ultraviolet light. The resin layer 30 may be made of a material whose refractive index increases when irradiated with ultraviolet light, or may be made of a material whose refractive index decreases when irradiated with ultraviolet light.

[0028] In one example, the resin layer 30 is formed of aromatic polyurethane. Aromatic polyurethane is synthesized, for example, by polyaddition reaction of aromatic diisocyanate and difunctional alcohol. Examples of aromatic diisocyanate that can be used include 4,4'-methylenediphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) and tolylene-2,4'-diisocyanate (TDI). Examples of difunctional alcohol that can be used include 1,4-bis(hydroxymethyl)benzene (HMB), 2-methyl-1,3-propanediol (MPDO), and 1,3-propanediol (PDO). Aromatic polyurethane is an example of a material whose refractive index increases when irradiated with ultraviolet light. The refractive index of aromatic polyurethane is approximately 1.58 to 1.65. Note that the refractive index of aromatic polyurethane mentioned above includes the refractive index before and after ultraviolet light irradiation.

[0029] The cover member CO is disposed above the display panel PNL. The cover member CO has an inner surface COL (first surface) facing the display panel PNL in the third direction Z, and an outer surface COU (second surface) located on the opposite side to the inner surface COL. In this embodiment, the resin layer 30 is disposed on the inner surface COL.

[0030] The cover member CO is made of a transparent material such as glass or plastic. In one example, the cover member CO is made of alkali aluminum silicate glass. The cover member CO may be formed in the form of a film, for example. The cover member CO may also have the function of blocking ultraviolet rays contained in external light. In this case, the cover member CO can suppress changes in the refractive index of the resin layer 30 caused by ultraviolet rays contained in external light. The refractive index of the cover member CO is approximately 1.5.

[0031] Fig. 3 is a diagram showing the display device DSP when the lighting device BL and the display panel PNL are in an off or on state. The diagram on the left of Fig. 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of the display device DSP. The diagram on the top right of Fig. 3 is a diagram showing the lighting device BL and the display panel PNL in an off state. The diagram on the bottom right of Fig. 3 is a diagram showing the lighting device BL and the display panel PNL in an on state.

[0032] The off state of the lighting device BL corresponds to a state in which all light sources included in the lighting device BL are turned off, and the on state of the lighting device BL corresponds to a state in which at least one light source included in the lighting device BL is turned on.

[0033] The off state of the display panel PNL corresponds to a state in which no electric field is formed in the liquid crystal layer LC shown in Fig. 2 while the lighting device BL is in the off state. Therefore, no image is displayed in the display area DA while the display panel PNL and the lighting device BL are in the off state.

[0034] The on-state of the display panel PNL corresponds to a state in which an electric field is formed in the liquid crystal layer LC while the illumination device BL is on, and therefore, while the display panel PNL and the illumination device BL are on, an image can be displayed in the display area DA.

[0035] As shown on the left side of FIG. 3, the resin layer 30 is transparent and includes a first region AR1, a second region AR2 having a refractive index different from that of the first region AR1, and a third region having a refractive index different from that of the first region AR1 and the second region AR2. The third region AR3 is adjacent to at least one of the first region AR1 and the second region AR2. In the example of FIG. 3, the first region AR1 and the second region AR2 are spaced apart, and the third region AR3 is adjacent to the first region AR1 and the second region AR2. The third region AR3 surrounds the first region AR1 and the second region AR2. The first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3 are formed of the same material.

[0036] The first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3 have the same thickness. Therefore, there are no steps at the boundaries between the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3. In other words, the surface of the resin layer 30 is flat.

[0037] The first area AR1, the second area AR2, and the third area AR3 overlap the display area DA. For example, the first area AR1 and the second area AR2 are areas that represent characters and figures. In the example of FIG. 3, the areas of the first area AR1 and the second area AR2 are smaller than the area of ​​the third area AR3. Furthermore, the refractive index of the first area AR1 is higher than the refractive index of the second area AR2, which is higher than the refractive index of the third area AR3.

[0038] The magnitude relationship between the refractive indexes of the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3 is not limited to the above example. The resin layer 30 may have four or more regions with different refractive indices.

[0039] The refractive index of each of the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3 is different from the refractive index of the cover member CO and the adhesive layer AD shown in Fig. 2. In one example, the refractive index of each of the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3 is smaller than the refractive index of the cover member CO and larger than the refractive index of the adhesive layer AD.

[0040] As shown in the upper right of FIG. 3 , when the lighting device BL and the display panel PNL are in an off state, external light incident on the display device DSP is refracted in the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3. Because the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3 have different refractive indices, the light refracted in the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3 travels in different directions. Because the light traveling in the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3 travels in different directions, a user can visually recognize the first region AR1 as a pattern M1 and the second region AR2 as a pattern M2. To make the patterns M1 and M2 visible, the difference in refractive index between the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3 needs to be at least 0.003. In addition, since the patterns M1 and M2 are formed by the difference in refractive index between the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3, it is desirable that the difference in refractive index be large in order to improve the visibility of the patterns M1 and M2.

[0041] As shown in the lower right of FIG. 3, when the lighting device BL and the display panel PNL are in an on state, the display panel PNL is illuminated by light from the lighting device BL, and an image P is displayed in the display area DA. Because the resin layer 30 is transparent, the display light forming the image P passes through the resin layer 30. This allows the user to view the image P. If the difference in refractive index between the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3 is large, the display light may be refracted in different directions in the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3, which may result in the patterns M1 and M2 and the image P being superimposed on each other. Therefore, from the viewpoint of preventing a decrease in visibility of the image P, it is desirable that the difference in refractive index between the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3 be 0.1 or less.

[0042] Next, a method for forming the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3 will be described. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of a method for forming the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3.

[0043] First, as shown in FIG. 4(a), a cover member CO is prepared. 4(b), a material for forming the resin layer 30 is applied to the cover member CO and then dried to form the resin layer 30. The material can be applied by, for example, an inkjet method or a spin coating method. For example, aromatic polyurethane is used as the material.

[0044] Next, as shown in FIG. 4(c), a mask MS is placed above the resin layer 30. A grayscale mask may be used as the mask MS. As an example, the mask MS has a light-transmitting portion MS1 ​​through which ultraviolet light UL passes and a light-shielding portion MS2 that blocks ultraviolet light UL. The mask MS also has a first mask region MA1, a second mask region MA2, and a third mask region MA3, which correspond to the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3, respectively, shown in FIG. 3. The proportion of the light-transmitting portion MS1 ​​in each of the first mask region MA1, the second mask region MA2, and the third mask region MA3 increases in the order of the first mask region MA1, the second mask region MA2, and the third mask region MA3. The proportion of the light-shielding portion MS2 in each of the first mask region MA1, the second mask region MA2, and the third mask region MA3 increases in the order of the third mask region MA3, the second mask region MA2, and the first mask region MA1.

[0045] Then, ultraviolet light UL is irradiated onto the resin layer 30 from an ultraviolet irradiation device UD through the light-transmitting portion MS1 ​​of the mask MS. The amount of ultraviolet light UL transmitted through the mask MS is greatest in the first mask region MA1, followed by the second mask region MA2 and the third mask region MA3. If the resin layer 30 is made of a material whose refractive index increases with ultraviolet light UL, the refractive index of the region irradiated with ultraviolet light UL increases compared to before irradiation with ultraviolet light UL. On the other hand, the refractive index of the region not irradiated with ultraviolet light UL remains almost unchanged compared to before irradiation with ultraviolet light UL. For example, when aromatic polyurethane is used, the refractive index in the first region AR1 changes by approximately 0.04 before and after irradiation with ultraviolet light UL, and the refractive index in the second region AR2 changes by approximately 0.02 before and after irradiation with ultraviolet light UL. In the third region AR3, most of the ultraviolet light UL is blocked from reaching the resin layer 30 by the mask MS, so the refractive index in the third region AR3 remains almost unchanged before and after irradiation with ultraviolet light UL.

[0046] As a result, as shown in Figure 4(d), a first region (high refractive index region) AR1 and a second region (medium refractive index region) AR2 are formed, which are irradiated with ultraviolet light UL, and a third region (low refractive index region) AR3, which is hardly irradiated with ultraviolet light UL.

[0047] Next, as shown in Figure 4(e), a first polarizer POL1 and a second polarizer POL2 are attached to a display panel PNL, which is made up of a first substrate SUB1, a liquid crystal layer LC, and a second substrate SUB2 stacked in that order, and a cover member CO on which a resin layer 30 is formed is attached to the second polarizer POL2 with an adhesive.

[0048] 5 is a schematic plan view showing an example of a mask MS. In the example shown in FIG. 5, a circular pattern PA that blocks ultraviolet light is formed on the mask MS. The pattern PA is formed, for example, from a material that blocks ultraviolet light, and is formed by an inkjet method or the like. The area of ​​the pattern PA corresponds to the area of ​​the light-shielding portion MS2.

[0049] In the example shown in FIG. 5, the pattern PA is formed in the first mask region MA1, the second mask region MA2, and the third mask region MA3. The proportion of the pattern PA in each of the first mask region MA1, the second mask region MA2, and the third mask region MA3 is highest in the third mask region MA3, the second mask region MA2, and the first mask region MA1, in that order. Note that the first mask region MA1 may be formed only with the light-transmitting portions MS1, and the third mask region MA3 may be formed only with the light-shielding portions MS2. Furthermore, the mask MS is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 5. For example, a halftone phase-shift mask may be used as the mask MS. By using such a mask MS, the amount of ultraviolet light transmitted can be adjusted.

[0050] According to this embodiment, the resin layer 30 overlapping the display area DA has a first area AR1, a second area AR2, and a third area AR3, each having a different refractive index. This difference in refractive index allows the patterns M1 and M2 to be seen, thereby improving the design.

[0051] Furthermore, the resin layer 30 is covered with a cover member CO. Therefore, the cover member CO can prevent wear on the surface of the resin layer 30. Therefore, it is possible to suppress deterioration of the design due to damage to the resin layer 30.

[0052] Furthermore, the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3 have the same thickness, and there are no steps at the boundaries between the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3, which makes it possible to suppress undesired scattering of light. In particular, scattering of external light and scattering of display light when the lighting device BL and the display panel PNL are in the on state can be suppressed. This makes it possible to suppress deterioration in the display quality of the image displayed in the display region DA.

[0053] In the above embodiment, the resin layer 30 is in contact with the cover member CO and the adhesive layer AD. In such an embodiment, if a predetermined refractive index difference is formed between the resin layer 30 and the cover member CO or between the resin layer 30 and the adhesive layer AD, the patterns M1 and M2 of the resin layer 30 can be visually recognized.

[0054] For example, when a predetermined refractive index difference is formed between the resin layer 30 and the cover member CO, light is refracted at the interface between the resin layer 30 and the cover member CO, and the patterns M1 and M2 can be seen. Note that the refractive index of the resin layer 30 (each of the refractive indexes of the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3) may be greater or smaller than the refractive index of the cover member CO.

[0055] Furthermore, when a predetermined difference in refractive index is formed between the resin layer 30 and the adhesive layer AD, light is refracted at the interface between the resin layer 30 and the adhesive layer AD, making the patterns M1 and M2 visible. The refractive index of the resin layer 30 may be greater or smaller than the refractive index of the adhesive layer AD.

[0056] Furthermore, even if a predetermined refractive index difference is formed between both the resin layer 30 and the cover member CO and between the resin layer 30 and the adhesive layer AD, the resin layer 30 has an extremely small thickness of about 1 μm, and does not lead to a deterioration in visibility due to multiple reflections.

[0057] [Second embodiment] Next, a second embodiment will be described. Fig. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device DSP according to the second embodiment. Elements that are the same as or similar to those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0058] In the display device DSP shown in FIG. 6, an air layer 40 is interposed between the resin layer 30 and the second polarizer POL2. Because the refractive index of the resin layer 30 is greater than that of the air layer 40, light is refracted at the interface (lower surface 30L) between the resin layer 30 and the air layer 40. Therefore, the patterns M1 and M2 can be seen even in the display device DSP shown in FIG. 6. Furthermore, because the resin layer 30 is covered with the cover member CO, it is possible to suppress deterioration of the design due to defects in the resin layer 30.

[0059] In addition, the display device DSP according to the second embodiment has the same effects as the display device DSP according to the first embodiment.

[0060] [Third embodiment] Next, a third embodiment will be described. Fig. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device DSP according to the third embodiment. Elements that are the same as or similar to those in the above-described embodiments are given the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted as appropriate.

[0061] In the display device DSP shown in FIG. 7, a resin layer 30 is disposed on an outer surface COU of a cover member CO. An inner surface COL of the cover member CO and an upper surface POL2U of the second polarizer POL2 are bonded by an adhesive layer AD. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the upper surface of the resin layer 30 is in contact with air. Therefore, light is refracted at the interface between the resin layer 30 and air, and patterns M1 and M2 can be seen. Furthermore, because the resin layer 30 is in contact with the cover member CO, if a predetermined refractive index difference is formed between the resin layer 30 and the cover member CO, the patterns M1 and M2 of the resin layer 30 can be seen. Therefore, the third embodiment can also achieve the same effects as the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0062] The display device DSP may further include an ultraviolet ray blocking layer that is disposed on the resin layer 30 and has the function of blocking ultraviolet rays contained in external light. In the example shown in Fig. 7, the resin layer 30 is disposed on the outer surface COU of the cover member CO, but the resin layer 30 may also be disposed on the upper surface POL2U of the second polarizer POL2.

[0063] [Fourth embodiment] Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. Fig. 8 is a schematic plan view of a display device DSP according to the fourth embodiment. Elements that are the same as or similar to those in the above-described embodiments are given the same reference numerals, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0064] The display device DSP according to the fourth embodiment is an organic electroluminescence display device that includes, for example, organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) as display elements. The display device DSP includes a display panel PNL. The display panel PNL includes an insulating substrate 110. In FIG. 8, the shape of the insulating substrate 110 in a plan view is a rectangle with long sides parallel to the second direction Y. However, the shape of the insulating substrate 110 in a plan view is not limited to this example and may be other shapes, such as a rectangle with long sides parallel to the first direction X, a square, a circle, or an ellipse. The insulating substrate 110 is formed of an insulating material such as glass or plastic.

[0065] The display area DA includes a plurality of pixels PX arranged in a matrix in the first direction X and the second direction Y. Each pixel PX includes a plurality of subpixels SP. For example, the pixel PX includes a red subpixel SP1, a green subpixel SP2, and a blue subpixel SP3. Note that the pixel PX may include four or more subpixels, including subpixels of other colors such as white, in addition to the above three subpixels.

[0066] 8, the subpixel SP includes a pixel circuit 1 and a display element DE driven by the pixel circuit 1. The pixel circuit 1 includes a pixel switch 2, a drive transistor 3, and a capacitor 4. The pixel switch 2 and the drive transistor 3 are switching elements formed of, for example, thin film transistors.

[0067] In the pixel switch 2, the gate electrode is connected to the scanning line GL. One of the source electrode and drain electrode of the pixel switch 2 is connected to the signal line SL, and the other is connected to the gate electrode of the drive transistor 3 and the capacitor 4. In the drive transistor 3, one of the source electrode and drain electrode is connected to the power line PL and the capacitor 4, and the other is connected to the anode of the display element DE. Note that the configuration of the pixel circuit 1 is not limited to the example shown in the figure.

[0068] The display element DE is an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) as a light-emitting element. For example, the subpixel SP1 includes a display element DE that emits light corresponding to a red wavelength, the subpixel SP2 includes a display element DE that emits light corresponding to a green wavelength, and the subpixel SP3 includes a display element DE that emits light corresponding to a blue wavelength. Note that the display element DE is not limited to an organic light-emitting diode, and may be another light-emitting element such as a micro light-emitting diode.

[0069] FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device DSP according to the fourth embodiment. The display panel PNL includes the above-mentioned insulating substrate 110, a circuit layer 111, insulating layers 112 and 113, the ribs 7, and a plurality of display elements DE arranged above the insulating substrate 110. The circuit layer 111 is arranged on the insulating substrate 110. The circuit layer 111 is covered with the insulating layer 112.

[0070] 8, and various wirings such as scanning lines GL, signal lines SL, and power supply lines PL. In one example, the insulating layer 112 includes an inorganic insulating layer and an organic insulating layer.

[0071] The display element DE includes a pixel electrode PE, an organic layer OR, and a common electrode CE. The pixel electrode PE is an electrode arranged for each subpixel SP. The common electrode CE is an electrode arranged in common to multiple display elements DE. The organic layer OR is arranged between the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE.

[0072] The pixel electrode PE is disposed on the insulating layer 112. The ribs 7 are disposed on the insulating layer 112 and the pixel electrode PE. The peripheral edge of the pixel electrode PE is covered by the ribs 7. The organic layer OR is disposed on the pixel electrode PE. The organic layer OR is surrounded by the ribs 7. The common electrode CE covers the organic layer OR and the ribs 7.

[0073] The organic layer OR includes a light-emitting layer made of an organic electroluminescent material, and may also include functional layers such as a hole-injection layer, a hole-transport layer, an electron-blocking layer, a hole-blocking layer, an electron-transport layer, and an electron-injection layer.

[0074] The insulating layer 113 covers the display elements DE. In Fig. 9, the insulating layer 113 covers the common electrode CE. The insulating layer 113 includes an organic layer for flattening the unevenness caused by the ribs 7 and an inorganic layer (sealing layer) for protecting the organic layer OR from moisture and the like.

[0075] The display device DSP further includes a polarizing plate POL arranged above the insulating layer 113, an adhesive layer AD, and a cover member CO.

[0076] The polarizer POL is bonded to the upper surface of the insulating layer 113. The resin layer 30 faces the polarizer POL in the third direction Z. That is, the resin layer 30 is disposed on the opposite side of the polarizer POL from the display panel PNL. The resin layer 30 is disposed on the inner surface COL of the cover member CO. An adhesive layer AD bonds the lower surface 30L of the resin layer 30 to the upper surface POLU of the polarizer POL.

[0077] The patterns M1 and M2 can also be seen in the display device shown in Fig. 9. Furthermore, since the resin layer 30 is covered with the cover member CO, it is possible to prevent deterioration of the design due to damage to the resin layer 30.

[0078] In addition, the display device DSP according to the fourth embodiment has the same effects as the display device DSP according to each of the above-described embodiments.

[0079] [Fifth embodiment] Next, a fifth embodiment will be described. Fig. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device DSP according to the fifth embodiment. Elements that are the same as or similar to those in the above-described embodiments are given the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted as appropriate.

[0080] 10, an air layer 40 is interposed between the resin layer 30 and the polarizing plate POL. In this embodiment as well, the patterns M1 and M2 can be seen.

[0081] Furthermore, since the resin layer 30 is covered with the cover member CO, it is possible to prevent deterioration of the design due to damage to the resin layer 30.

[0082] In addition, the display device DSP according to the fifth embodiment has the same effects as the display device DSP according to each of the above-described embodiments.

[0083] [Sixth embodiment] Next, a sixth embodiment will be described. Fig. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device DSP according to the sixth embodiment. Elements that are the same as or similar to those in the above-described embodiments are given the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted as appropriate.

[0084] In the display device DSP shown in FIG. 11, a resin layer 30 is disposed on the outer surface COU of a cover member CO. The inner surface COL of the cover member CO and the upper surface POLU of the polarizing plate POL are bonded by an adhesive layer AD. In the example shown in FIG. 11, the upper surface of the resin layer 30 is in contact with air. Therefore, light is refracted at the interface between the resin layer 30 and the air, making it possible to visually recognize the patterns M1 and M2. Furthermore, since the resin layer 30 is in contact with the cover member CO, if a predetermined refractive index difference is formed between the resin layer 30 and the cover member CO, the patterns M1 and M2 of the resin layer 30 can be visually recognized. Therefore, the sixth embodiment can also achieve the same effects as the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0085] The display device DSP may further include an ultraviolet ray blocking layer that is disposed on the resin layer 30 and has the function of blocking ultraviolet rays contained in external light. In the example shown in Fig. 11, the resin layer 30 is disposed on the outer surface COU of the cover member CO, but the resin layer 30 may also be disposed on the upper surface POLU of the polarizing plate POL.

[0086] Next, a description will be given of a film that uses the above-described resin layer 30. Elements that are the same as or similar to those in the above-described embodiments are given the same reference numerals, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted as appropriate. [First embodiment] 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the film FLM according to embodiment 1. The film FLM includes a base material BA, a resin layer 30, and an adhesive layer AD.

[0087] The substrate BA has a surface BAS and is formed in the shape of a thin sheet. The substrate BA is formed of a resin material such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), or a transparent material such as glass. The refractive index of the substrate BA is, for example, about 1.5.

[0088] As described above, the resin layer 30 is made of a material whose refractive index changes when irradiated with ultraviolet light. In one example, the resin layer 30 is made of aromatic polyurethane. The resin layer 30 is disposed on the surface BAS of the base material BA. The resin layer 30 may cover the entire surface BAS or may cover only a portion of the surface BAS.

[0089] The adhesive layer AD is made of a transparent material as described above. In the example shown in Fig. 12, the adhesive layer AD is disposed on the opposite side of the resin layer 30 across the base material BA.

[0090] 13 is a schematic plan view of the film FLM according to the first embodiment. As described above, the resin layer 30 has a first region AR1, a second region AR2 having a refractive index different from that of the first region AR1, and a third region AR3 having a refractive index different from that of the first region AR1 and the second region AR2 and adjacent to at least one of the first region AR1 and the second region AR2.

[0091] Because the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3 have different refractive indices, the light passing through the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3 travels in different directions. This allows the user to visually recognize the first region AR1 as pattern M1 and the second region AR2 as pattern M2. To make the patterns M1 and M2 visible, the difference in refractive index between the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3 needs to be at least 0.003.

[0092] According to the film FLM of this embodiment, the patterns M1 and M2 can be visually recognized due to the difference in refractive index between the first region AR1, the second region AR2, and the third region AR3, thereby improving the design.

[0093] In this embodiment, the adhesive layer AD is disposed on the opposite side of the base material BA from the resin layer 30. In other words, the resin layer 30 is not in contact with the adhesive layer AD. This prevents alteration or deterioration of the resin layer 30 due to the adhesive layer AD, and increases the options for materials for forming the resin layer 30.

[0094] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a state in which a film FLM is attached to a display device DSP. The display device DSP shown in FIG. 14 may be the display device DSP of each of the above-described embodiments, or may be a general display device distributed on the market. The film FLM is adhered to the surface of the display device DSP by an adhesive layer AD. Note that the adhesion method of the film FLM is not limited to the adhesion method using the adhesive layer AD. For example, the film FLM may be adhered to the display device DSP by static electricity. In this case, the film FLM may not have an adhesive layer AD.

[0095] In this way, by attaching the film FLM to the display device DSP, it is possible to improve the design of the display device DSP. The film FLM can be attached not only to the display device DSP but also to various other items.

[0096] [Second embodiment] Fig. 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the film FLM according to the second embodiment. In the example shown in Fig. 15, the adhesive layer AD is disposed on the opposite side of the base material BA with the resin layer 30 sandwiched therebetween. In such a film FLM, the resin layer 30 is protected by the base material BA, so that damage to the resin layer 30 can be prevented and deterioration of the film FLM over time can be suppressed.

[0097] All display devices and films that can be implemented by a person skilled in the art by appropriately modifying the design based on the display devices and films described above as embodiments of the present invention also fall within the scope of the present invention as long as they include the gist of the present invention.

[0098] Within the scope of the concept of the present invention, a person skilled in the art may conceive of various modifications, and these modifications are also understood to fall within the scope of the present invention. For example, even if a person skilled in the art appropriately adds or deletes components or modifies the design of the above-described embodiment, or adds or omits steps or modifies conditions, these modifications are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they maintain the gist of the present invention.

[0099] Furthermore, with regard to other effects brought about by the aspects described in the above embodiments, those that are clear from the description in this specification or that can be appropriately thought of by a person skilled in the art are naturally understood to be brought about by the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0100] DSP...display device, PNL...display panel, BL...illumination device, SUB1...first substrate, SUB2...second substrate, AR1...first region, AR2...second region, AR3...third region, LC...liquid crystal layer, AL1...first alignment film, AL2...second alignment film, POL1...first polarizer, POL2...second polarizer, AD...adhesive layer, CO...cover member, 30...resin layer, UD...ultraviolet irradiation device.

Claims

1. a display panel having a display area for displaying an image; a resin layer overlapping the display area, A display device, wherein the resin layer has a first region, a second region having a refractive index different from that of the first region, and a third region having a refractive index different from that of the first region and the second region and adjacent to at least one of the first region and the second region.

2. a difference in refractive index between the first region, the second region, and the third region is 0.003 or more; The display device according to claim 1 .

3. The resin layer is formed of aromatic polyurethane. The display device according to claim 1 .

4. The resin layer is formed of a material whose refractive index changes when exposed to ultraviolet light. The display device according to claim 1 .

5. a cover member having a first surface facing the display panel and a second surface located on the opposite side to the first surface; The resin layer is disposed on the first surface or the second surface of the cover member. The display device according to claim 1 .

6. The refractive index of each of the first region, the second region, and the third region is different from the refractive index of the cover member. The display device according to claim 5 .

7. Furthermore, an illumination device that illuminates the display panel; a first polarizing plate and a second polarizing plate, the display panel includes a first substrate, a second substrate facing the first substrate, and a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate; the first polarizing plate is disposed between the first substrate and the lighting device; the second polarizing plate is disposed between the second substrate and the resin layer, the resin layer is disposed on the opposite side of the display panel with the second polarizing plate interposed therebetween; The display device according to claim 5 .

8. the resin layer is disposed on the first surface, Further, an adhesive layer is provided to bond the resin layer and the second polarizing plate. The display device according to claim 7 .

9. the resin layer is disposed on the first surface, an air layer is interposed between the resin layer and the second polarizing plate; The display device according to claim 7 .

10. the display panel includes an insulating substrate, a plurality of display elements facing the insulating substrate, and an insulating layer covering the plurality of display elements; Further, a polarizing plate facing the insulating layer is provided, the resin layer is disposed on the opposite side of the display panel with the polarizing plate interposed therebetween; The display device according to claim 5 .

11. the resin layer is disposed on the first surface, Further, an adhesive layer is provided to bond the resin layer and the polarizing plate. The display device according to claim 10.

12. the resin layer is disposed on the first surface, an air layer is interposed between the resin layer and the polarizing plate; The display device according to claim 10.

13. each of the plurality of display elements is a light-emitting diode; The display device according to claim 10.

14. The refractive index of each of the first region, the second region, and the third region is different from the refractive index of the adhesive layer. The display device according to claim 8 or 11.

15. A substrate; a resin layer disposed on a surface of the substrate, the resin layer having a first region, a second region having a refractive index different from that of the first region, and a third region having a refractive index different from that of the first region and the second region and adjacent to at least one of the first region and the second region.

16. a difference in refractive index between the first region, the second region, and the third region is 0.003 or more; The film of claim 15.

17. The resin layer is formed of aromatic polyurethane. The film of claim 15.

18. The resin layer is formed of a material whose refractive index changes when exposed to ultraviolet light. The film of claim 15.

19. Further, an adhesive layer is provided on the opposite side of the resin layer with the substrate interposed therebetween. The film of claim 15.

20. Further, an adhesive layer is provided on the opposite side of the base material with the resin layer interposed therebetween. The film of claim 15.

Images