Indication device

Abstract

To provide a display device capable of improving display quality. [Solution] According to one embodiment, the display device comprises a display panel having a display area for displaying an image, and a plurality of light-emitting units having light-emitting surfaces that irradiate light toward the display panel, wherein the display panel comprises a first transparent substrate, a second transparent substrate facing the first transparent substrate, a liquid crystal layer located between the first transparent substrate and the second transparent substrate and containing polymer-dispersed liquid crystal, scan lines located between the first transparent substrate and the liquid crystal layer, and signal lines located between the first transparent substrate and the liquid crystal layer and intersecting the scan lines, wherein the plurality of light-emitting units are arranged in a plan view along a first edge extending in a first direction of the display panel, and in the display area, each of the scan lines and the signal lines extends in a direction different from the first direction and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction in a plan view.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a display device.

Background Art

[0002] Various display devices using polymer-dispersed liquid crystal that can switch between a scattered state that scatters incident light and a transparent state that transmits incident light have been proposed. In a display device using polymer-dispersed liquid crystal, an edge light method in which a light-emitting module is arranged at an end of a display panel may be used.

[0003] Part of the illumination light emitted from the light-emitting module may be reflected by a wiring orthogonal to its traveling direction. If such undesired reflected light leaks outside the display panel near the wiring, it causes a deterioration in display quality. On the other hand, if a wide light-shielding layer is provided directly above the wiring to suppress such leakage of reflected light, it causes a reduction in the aperture area of the pixel. Therefore, a technique of forming the wiring in a curved shape has been proposed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] An object of an embodiment is to provide a display device capable of improving display quality.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] According to one embodiment, a display device includes The display panel comprises a display area for displaying an image, and a plurality of light-emitting units having light-emitting surfaces that irradiate light toward the display panel, wherein the display panel comprises a first transparent substrate, a second transparent substrate facing the first transparent substrate, a liquid crystal layer containing polymer-dispersed liquid crystal located between the first transparent substrate and the second transparent substrate, scan lines located between the first transparent substrate and the liquid crystal layer, and signal lines located between the first transparent substrate and the liquid crystal layer that intersect the scan lines, wherein the plurality of light-emitting units are arranged along a first edge extending in a first direction of the display panel in a plan view, and in the display area, each of the scan lines and the signal lines extends in a direction different from the first direction and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction in a plan view. According to one embodiment, the display device is The display panel includes a polymer-dispersed liquid crystal and a plurality of light-emitting units arranged in a first direction, wherein the display panel comprises a first non-display area, a display area, and a second non-display area arranged sequentially in the first direction, a plurality of scan lines arranged in the first direction within the display area, and a plurality of signal lines arranged in the first direction within the display area and intersecting the plurality of scan lines, wherein the outermost scan line of the plurality of scan lines is located in either the first non-display area or the second non-display area and extends in a direction different from the first direction and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction within the display area, and the outermost signal line of the plurality of signal lines is located in either the first non-display area or the second non-display area and extends in a direction different from the first direction and a second direction within the display area. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of a display device according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to one embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 illustrates the relationship between the irradiated light and the scan lines and signal lines. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the DSP display device along the AB line shown in Figure 3. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example configuration of scan lines and signal lines. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows another example of a display device DSP configuration. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows another example of a DSP display device configuration. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Several embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. The disclosure is merely an example, and any modifications that a person skilled in the art could easily conceive of while maintaining the spirit of the invention are naturally included within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the drawings may schematically represent the width, thickness, shape, etc., of each part in order to clarify the explanation, but these are merely examples and do not limit the interpretation of the present invention. In addition, in this specification and each drawing, the same reference numerals are used for components that perform the same or similar functions as those described above with respect to previously shown drawings, and redundant detailed explanations may be omitted as appropriate.

[0009] Furthermore, the drawings will include mutually orthogonal X, Y, and Z axes as needed to facilitate understanding. The direction along the X-axis will be referred to as the first direction X, the direction along the Y-axis as the second direction Y, and the direction along the Z-axis as the third direction Z. Viewing various elements parallel to the third direction Z is called a plan view. In addition, terms referring to the positional relationship between two or more constituent elements, such as above, above, between, and opposite, include not only cases where the two or more constituent elements of an object are in direct contact, but also cases where they are separated from each other by gaps or other constituent elements.

[0010] Figure 1 shows an example configuration of a display device DSP according to one embodiment.

[0011] The display device DSP comprises a display panel PNL configured to display an image, and a plurality of light-emitting units LE that emit light L toward the display panel PNL.

[0012] The display panel PNL comprises a transparent substrate 110 and a transparent substrate 120. Each of the transparent substrates 110 and 120 is formed as a flat plate parallel to the XY plane defined by a first direction X and a second direction Y. The transparent substrates 110 and 120 overlap each other in a plan view. The transparent substrate 110 extends further along the second direction Y than the transparent substrate 120. In the illustrated example, both the transparent substrates 110 and 120 are formed as rectangles, but are not limited to this. For example, the transparent substrates 110 and 120 may be polygons other than rectangles, circles, ellipses, semicircles, or any other shape.

[0013] The display panel PNL further includes a liquid crystal layer LC sealed between a transparent substrate 110 and a transparent substrate 120. The liquid crystal layer LC is located in a display area DA for displaying images and a non-display area NDA outside the display area DA. As shown in an enlarged view in Figure 1, the liquid crystal layer LC is composed of a polymer-dispersed liquid crystal containing a polymer PL and liquid crystal molecules LM.

[0014] In one example, polymer PL is a liquid crystalline polymer. Polymer PL is formed in streaks extending along a first direction X and aligned in a second direction Y in a plan view. Liquid crystal molecules LM are dispersed in the gaps of polymer PL and are oriented so that their long axes are aligned along the first direction X.

[0015] Both polymer PL and liquid crystal molecule LM possess optical anisotropy or refractive index anisotropy. The responsiveness of polymer PL to an electric field is lower than that of liquid crystal molecule LM.

[0016] In one example, the orientation direction of the polymer PL remains largely unchanged regardless of the presence or absence of an electric field. In contrast, the orientation direction of the liquid crystal molecules LM changes depending on the voltage applied to the liquid crystal layer LC.

[0017] In a state where no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer LC, the optical axes of the polymer PL and the liquid crystal molecules LM are parallel to each other, and the light incident on the liquid crystal layer LC is transmitted through the liquid crystal layer LC almost without being scattered (transparent state).

[0018] In a state where a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer LC, the optical axes of the polymer PL and the liquid crystal molecules LM intersect each other, and the light incident on the liquid crystal layer LC is scattered within the liquid crystal layer LC (scattering state).

[0019] Note that the configuration of the polymer-dispersed liquid crystal including the polymer PL and the liquid crystal molecules LM is not limited to the above example.

[0020] In the present embodiment, in a plan view, a direction different from the first direction X and the second direction Y is defined as the fourth direction D4. Further, in a plan view, a direction different from the first direction X, the second direction Y, and the fourth direction D4 is defined as the fifth direction D5.

[0021] The fourth direction D4 is a direction forming a first angle θ1 with respect to a reference line RF parallel to the first direction X. The first angle θ1 is an acute angle in the clockwise direction with respect to the reference line RF. The fifth direction D5 is a direction forming a second angle θ2 with respect to the reference line RF. The second angle θ2 is an acute angle in the clockwise direction with respect to the reference line RF. Each of the first angle θ1 and the second angle θ2 is more preferably, for example, 30 degrees or more and 45 degrees or less. In one example, the first angle θ1 is equal to the second angle θ2.

[0022] The display area DA includes a plurality of pixels PX arranged in a matrix in the fourth direction D4 and the fifth direction D5 in a plan view.

[0023] As shown enlarged in the figure, each pixel PX includes a switching element SW, a pixel electrode PE, a common electrode CE, a liquid crystal layer LC, etc. The switching element SW is constituted by, for example, a thin film transistor (TFT) and is electrically connected to a scanning line G and a signal line S.

[0024] The scan line G extends in a direction different from the first direction X and the second direction Y within the display area DA, for example, in the fourth direction D4. The scan line G is electrically connected to the switching element SW in each of the multiple pixels PX aligned in the fourth direction D4.

[0025] The signal line S intersects the scan line G in the display area DA and extends in a direction different from the first direction X and the second direction Y, for example, in the fifth direction D5. The signal line S is electrically connected to the switching element SW in each of the multiple pixels PX aligned in the fifth direction D5.

[0026] The pixel electrodes PE are electrically connected to the switching element SW. Each pixel electrode PE faces a common electrode CE, and the electric field generated between the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE drives the liquid crystal layer LC (particularly the liquid crystal molecules LM). Capacitance CS is formed, for example, between an electrode at the same potential as the common electrode CE and an electrode at the same potential as the pixel electrode PE.

[0027] The scan lines G, signal lines S, switching elements SW, and pixel electrodes PE are formed between the transparent substrate 110 and the liquid crystal layer LC. The common electrode CE is formed between the transparent substrate 120 and the liquid crystal layer LC.

[0028] The light-emitting units LE are configured to emit light L toward the display panel PNL. Multiple light-emitting units LE are arranged along the first side 11 of the display panel PNL. In the illustrated example, the first side 11 extends in the first direction X.

[0029] Light L is emitted from the light-emitting surface LEF of each light-emitting unit LE. For example, the normal N of the light-emitting surface LEF is parallel to the second direction Y. In this case, the light L emitted from the light-emitting surface LEF propagates within the display panel PNL along the second direction Y.

[0030] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to one embodiment.

[0031] Note that Figure 2 schematically shows the structure of the display panel PNL, etc., and omits the illustration of elements such as scan lines G, signal lines S, and switching elements SW.

[0032] Transparent substrates 110 and 120 face each other in the third direction Z. The liquid crystal layer LC is located between transparent substrates 110 and 120. Each pixel electrode PE of a pixel PX is located between transparent substrate 110 and the liquid crystal layer LC and is covered with alignment film AL1. A common electrode CE facing multiple pixel electrodes PE is located between transparent substrate 120 and the liquid crystal layer LC and is covered with alignment film AL2. The liquid crystal layer LC is in contact with alignment films AL1 and AL2. The pixel electrodes PE and common electrode CE are transparent electrodes formed from a transparent conductive material such as indium tin oxide (ITO). An IC chip CP and a flexible printed circuit board (not shown) are mounted on transparent substrate 110.

[0033] In the illustrated example, the display panel PNL further comprises a transparent substrate 130, a transparent substrate 140, and a light guide LG. The transparent substrate 130 is bonded to the transparent substrate 110 via a transparent adhesive layer AD1. The transparent substrate 140 is bonded to the transparent substrate 120 via a transparent adhesive layer AD2. The light guide LG is located between the light-emitting part LE and the transparent substrate 140 in the second direction Y.

[0034] The side surface 120E of the transparent substrate 120 and the side surface 140E of the transparent substrate 140 overlap in the third direction Z. In this case, the side surfaces 120E and 140E correspond to the first side 11 of the display panel PNL shown in Figure 1.

[0035] The transparent substrate 140 may extend further along the second direction Y than the transparent substrate 120. If the side surface 120E of the transparent substrate 120 is located between the side surface 140E of the transparent substrate 140 and the display area DA in the second direction Y, then the side surface 140E corresponds to the first side 11 of the display panel PNL shown in Figure 1.

[0036] In the illustrated example, the main surface 130A of the transparent substrate 130 and the main surface 140A of the transparent substrate 140 are both parallel to the XY plane and are in contact with the air.

[0037] Adhesive layers AD1 and AD2 have refractive indices equivalent to those of transparent substrates 110, 120, 130, and 140. Therefore, unwanted interfacial reflections are suppressed between transparent substrate 110 and transparent substrate 130, and between transparent substrate 120 and transparent substrate 140.

[0038] The light-emitting section LE faces the side surface 140E of the transparent substrate 140 in the second direction Y. The light-emitting section LE may also face both the side surface 120E and the side surface 140E. The light-emitting section LE includes, though not described in detail, a red light-emitting section, a green light-emitting section, and a blue light-emitting section. These red, green, and blue light-emitting sections may be lit sequentially, or all may be lit simultaneously.

[0039] Transparent substrates 110, 120, 130, and 140 are, for example, glass substrates, but may also be resin substrates. Transparent substrates 130 and 140 function as cover members. Transparent substrate 140 also functions as a light guide plate that propagates the light L emitted from the light-emitting part LE along the second direction Y.

[0040] In one example, the transparent substrate 130 is thicker than the transparent substrate 110, and the transparent substrate 140 is thicker than the transparent substrate 120. At least one of the transparent substrates 130 and 140 may be omitted. If the transparent substrate 140 is omitted, the light-emitting part LE is positioned to face the side surface 120E of the transparent substrate 120 in the second direction Y.

[0041] In such a display panel PNL, when a voltage is applied to each pixel PX, the light L emitted from the light-emitting unit LE is scattered by the liquid crystal layer LC of each pixel PX, becoming display light, and an image is displayed in the display area DA. The display light emitted from the display panel PNL is linearly polarized and parallel to the first direction X.

[0042] When the liquid crystal layer (LC) is transparent, external light incident on the display panel (PNL) is transmitted with almost no scattering by the liquid crystal layer (LC). In other words, external light incident on the display panel (PNL) from the main surface (130A) is transmitted through the main surface (140A), and external light incident on the display panel (PNL) from the main surface (140A) is transmitted through the main surface (130A). Therefore, when the display panel (PNL) is observed from the side of the main surface (130A), the background can be observed through the display panel (PNL). Similarly, when the display panel (PNL) is observed from the side of the main surface (140A), the background can be observed through the display panel (PNL).

[0043] Figure 3 illustrates the relationship between the irradiated light and the scan lines and signal lines.

[0044] In Figure 3, adjacent scan lines G are shown as scan line GA and scan line GB. Signal lines S that intersect scan lines GA and scan line GB and are adjacent to each other are shown as signal line SA and signal line SB.

[0045] In the illustrated example, since the normal N of the light-emitting surface LEF of the light-emitting unit LE is parallel to the second direction Y, the light L emitted from the light-emitting unit LE propagates within the display panel PNL along the second direction Y.

[0046] Each of the scan lines GA and GB extends in a fourth direction D4 that intersects the second direction Y, which is the propagation direction of light L, in a plan view, and also has a side surface GS extending in the fourth direction D4 on the light-emitting part LE side. Each of the scan lines GA and GB extends in a straight line and does not include a curved section between the signal line SA and the signal line SB.

[0047] Each of the signal lines SA and SB extends in a fifth direction D5 that intersects the second direction Y, which is the propagation direction of light L, in a plan view, and also has a side surface SS extending in the fifth direction D5 towards the light-emitting part LE. Each of the signal lines SA and SB extends in a straight line and does not include a curved section between the scan line GA and the scan line GB.

[0048] As will be described later, the extension directions of the scan line G and signal line S are not limited to this example; the scan line G may extend in the fifth direction D5, and the signal line S may extend in the fourth direction D4. Furthermore, the positional relationship between the gate driver GD and source driver SD to which they are connected may change depending on the extension direction of the scan line G and signal line S.

[0049] A pixel PX comprises a switching element SW and a pixel electrode PE. In the illustrated example, the switching element SW is electrically connected to the scan line GB and the signal line SA. In the fourth direction D4, the switching element SW is closer to the signal line SA than to the signal line SB, and in the fifth direction D5, it is closer to the scan line GB than to the scan line GA.

[0050] The pixel electrode PE is positioned between signal line SA and signal line SB, and between scan line GA and scan line GB. In the illustrated example, the pixel electrode PE is formed to be approximately the same shape as the region enclosed by signal line SA, signal line SB, scan line GA, and scan line GB, except near the switching element SW. Note that the position and shape of the pixel electrode PE are not limited to this example. For example, the pixel electrode PE may overlap with scan line G and signal line S, and may have a roughly rectangular shape with sides parallel to the first direction X and the second direction Y.

[0051] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the DSP display device along the AB line shown in Figure 3.

[0052] The insulating layer 111 is placed on the transparent substrate 110. The insulating layer 112 is placed on the insulating layer 111. These insulating layers 111 and 112 are inorganic insulating layers formed from, for example, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, or silicon oxynitride. The insulating layer IL is placed on the insulating layer 112. The insulating layer IL is an organic insulating layer. The transparent electrode TE covers the insulating layer IL. The insulating layer 113 is placed on the insulating layer 112 and covers the transparent electrode TE. The pixel electrode PE is placed on the insulating layer 113. The insulating layer 113 is interposed between the transparent electrode TE and the pixel electrode PE. The alignment film AL1 covers the pixel electrode PE and the insulating layer 113 and is in contact with the liquid crystal layer LC.

[0053] The scan line G is positioned on an insulating layer 111 and covered by an insulating layer 112. The scan line G is a multilayer body including, for example, an aluminum layer formed of an aluminum-based material and a titanium layer formed of a titanium-based material.

[0054] The signal line S is placed on the insulating layer 112 and covered with the insulating layer IL. The signal line S is a multilayer, for example, containing a titanium layer and an aluminum layer.

[0055] The materials forming the scan lines G and signal lines S are not limited to the examples above. For example, the signal lines S may include a molybdenum layer formed from a molybdenum-based material.

[0056] The light-shielding layer BM is positioned between the transparent substrate 120 and the liquid crystal layer LC. Furthermore, the light-shielding layer BM is located directly above the scan lines G and signal lines S. Although not shown in the diagram, the light-shielding layer BM is also located directly above the switching element SW.

[0057] The common electrode CE faces the pixel electrode PE in the third direction Z and covers the light-shielding layer BM. The alignment layer AL2 covers the common electrode CE and is in contact with the liquid crystal layer LC.

[0058] With such a display device DSP, compared to the case where the scan line G or signal line S is perpendicular to the propagation direction of light L, the amount of light reflected outwards from the side GS of the scan line G and the side SS of the signal line S is reduced. As a result, light leakage caused by unwanted reflections in the scan line G or signal line S is suppressed, and the display quality can be improved.

[0059] Furthermore, there is no need to form a wide light-shielding layer to block unwanted reflected light. As a result, the reduction in the aperture area of ​​the pixels is suppressed.

[0060] Furthermore, there is no need to form the wiring in a curved shape to suppress unwanted reflected light. As a result, an unwanted increase in the resistance or capacitance of the wiring is suppressed.

[0061] Figure 5 shows an example configuration of scan lines and signal lines.

[0062] In Figure 5, each of the scan lines G of the display panel PNL according to this embodiment is designated as one of several scan lines G1 to Gn, and the scan line located on the outermost edge of the display panel PNL is designated as the outermost scan line G1. Similarly, each of the signal lines S is designated as one of several signal lines S1 to Sm, and the signal line located on the outermost edge of the display panel PNL is designated as the outermost signal line S1. n and m are natural numbers of 2 or greater. Note that the values ​​of n and m may be different or the same. Furthermore, the positions and number of the multiple scan lines G1 to Gn and the multiple signal lines S1 to Sm are not limited to the example shown.

[0063] The display panel PNL has a display area DA, which is the area where the image is displayed, and a non-display area NDA that is provided around the display area DA. For example, the display area DA is a rectangle as shown by the dashed line in Figure 5, but it is not limited to this example.

[0064] In this embodiment, the non-display area NDA is the area outside the display area DA. For example, in a plan view, the non-display area NDA is the area defined by the dashed line indicating the display area DA and the border lines indicating each side of the transparent substrates 110 and 120.

[0065] The non-display area NDA includes the first area A1 and the second area A2 located on either side of the display area DA in the first direction X, and the third area A3 and the fourth area A4 located on either side of the display area DA in the second direction Y. In other words, the first area A1, the display area DA, and the second area A2 are arranged in this order in the first direction X, and the third area A3, the display area DA, and the fourth area A4 are arranged in this order in the second direction Y.

[0066] In one example, the first region A1 and the second region A2 are regions that are elongated in the second direction Y. The third region A3 and the fourth region A4 are regions that are elongated in the first direction X. Note that the boundaries of the first region A1 to the fourth region A4 are not strictly defined and may overlap with other regions.

[0067] The display panel PNL has, in a plan view, a first side 11 extending in a first direction X, and a second side 12 facing the first side 11 in a second direction Y and extending in the first direction X. The first side 11 is located in a third region A3, and the second side 12 is located in a fourth region A4. In other words, the display region DA is located between the first side 11 and the second side 12. Here, both the first side 11 and the second side 12 are sides of the transparent substrate 120.

[0068] The first side 11 has a first end 11A and a second end 11B located opposite the first end 11A in the first direction X. The second side 12 has a third end 12A and a fourth end 12B located opposite the third end 12A in the first direction X.

[0069] The first end 11A and the third end 12A face each other in the second direction Y. Also, the second end 11B and the fourth end 12B face each other in the second direction Y. In the illustrated example, in a plan view, the first to fourth ends 11A to 12B correspond to the corners of the transparent substrate 120. The first end 11A and the fourth end 12B are located diagonally opposite each other. Also, the second end 11B and the third end 12A are located diagonally opposite each other.

[0070] The display device DSP further comprises a gate driver GD configured to drive multiple scan lines G1 to Gn, and a source driver SD configured to drive multiple signal lines S1 to Sm.

[0071] The outermost scan line G1 is closest to the second end 11B and the fourth end 12B among the multiple scan lines G1 to Gn. The outermost signal line S1 is closest to the first end 11A and the third end 12A among the multiple signal lines S1 to Sm.

[0072] The gate driver GD and source driver SD are mounted on the transparent substrate 110 and are aligned in the first direction X in the non-display area NDA. The gate driver GD and source driver SD are controlled, for example, via an external wiring board.

[0073] In the illustrated example, the gate driver GD is located on the second end 11B side of the third region A3. The source driver SD is located on the first end 11A side of the third region A3. Multiple gate drivers GD and source drivers SD may be provided.

[0074] In the display area DA, each of the multiple scan lines G1 to Gn extends in the fourth direction D4. That is, the direction in which each of the multiple scan lines G1 to Gn extends is the direction that makes a first angle θ1 with respect to the reference line RF. In other words, each of the multiple scan lines G1 to Gn extends from the second end 11B toward the third end 12A. Note that "extending from the second end 11B toward the third end 12A" is not limited to the case where each of the multiple scan lines G1 to Gn extends in a direction parallel to the line connecting the second end 11B and the third end 12A. For example, in the display area DA, each of the multiple scan lines G1 to Gn is parallel to each other.

[0075] Each of the multiple scan lines G1 to Gn is drawn from the display area DA to the non-display area NDA and then connected to the gate driver GD. For example, some of the multiple scan lines G1 to Gn, including the outermost scan line G1, are drawn to the second area A2, then pass through the second area A2 and the third area A3 and are connected to the gate driver GD. In this case, in the non-display area NDA, the outermost scan line G1 has a portion extending in the fourth direction D4, a portion extending in the second direction Y, and a portion extending toward the gate driver GD, but this is not an example. For example, the outermost scan line G1 may consist only of a portion extending in the fourth direction D4, without having a portion extending in the second direction Y. Of the multiple scan lines G1 to Gn, the other scan lines, including scan line Gn, are drawn to the third area A3 without being drawn to the second area A2 and are connected to the gate driver GD. Therefore, compared to the case where all scan lines G1 to Gn are drawn into the second region A2, the area of ​​the second region A2 can be reduced, enabling a narrower bezel.

[0076] In the display area DA, each of the multiple signal lines S1 to Sm extends in the fifth direction D5. That is, the direction of extension of each of the multiple signal lines S1 to Sm is in the direction that makes a second angle θ2 with respect to the reference line RF. In other words, each of the multiple signal lines S1 to Sm extends from the first end 11A toward the fourth end 12B. Note that "extending from the first end 11A toward the fourth end 12B" is not limited to the case where each of the multiple signal lines S1 to Sm extends in a direction parallel to the line connecting the first end 11A and the fourth end 12B. For example, in the display area DA, each of the multiple signal lines S1 to Sm is parallel to each other.

[0077] Each of the multiple signal lines S1 to Sm is drawn from the display area DA to the non-display area NDA and then connected to the source driver SD. For example, some of the multiple signal lines S1 to Sm, including the outermost signal line S1, are drawn to the first area A1, then pass through the first area A1 and the third area A3 and are connected to the source driver SD. In this case, in the non-display area NDA, the outermost signal line S1 has a portion extending in the fifth direction D5, a portion extending in the second direction Y, and a portion extending toward the source driver SD, but this is not an example. For example, the outermost signal line S1 may consist only of a portion extending in the fifth direction D5, without having a portion extending in the second direction Y. Of the multiple signal lines S1 to Sm, the other signal lines, including signal line Sm, are drawn to the third area A3 without being drawn to the first area A1 and are connected to the source driver SD. Therefore, compared to the case where all signal lines S1 to Sm are brought out into the first region A1, the area of ​​the first region A1 can be reduced, making it possible to narrow the bezel.

[0078] Note that the connection relationships between the gate driver GD and each scan line G, and the relationship between the source driver SD and each signal line S are not limited to this example.

[0079] In the display area DA, if a scan line G extends in the fourth direction D4, for example, the outermost scan line G1 will have a longer wiring length in the non-display area NDA compared to other scan lines G, but a shorter wiring length in the display area DA. On the other hand, scan lines G with a longer wiring length in the display area DA are drawn out near the gate driver GD, thus shortening their wiring length within the non-display area NDA. Therefore, variations in wiring resistance caused by differences in wiring lengths among multiple scan lines G1 to Gn can be reduced. Furthermore, compared to the case where scan lines G1 to Gn are drawn out on both sides of the display area DA (both the first area A1 and the second area A2), the wiring lengths of scan lines G1 to Gn can be shortened, thereby reducing wiring resistance.

[0080] Furthermore, if the scan line G extends in the fourth direction D4, the scan line G is not drawn into the first region A1, but into the second region A2 and the third region A3. Therefore, it becomes possible to concentrate the gate driver GD only on the second end 11B side of the third region A3. By concentrating the gate driver GD on one side, the overall size of the gate driver GD can be reduced.

[0081] Figure 6 shows another example of a display device DSP configuration.

[0082] The configuration example shown in Figure 6 differs from the configuration example shown in Figure 5 in the extension direction of the scan line G and signal line S, and in the positions of the gate driver GD and source driver SD. Hereafter, components identical to those in the configuration example in Figure 5 will be given the same reference numerals, and their descriptions may be omitted.

[0083] The outermost scan line G1 is closest to the first end 11A and the third end 12A among the multiple scan lines G1 to Gn. The outermost signal line S1 is closest to the second end 11B and the fourth end 12B among the multiple signal lines S1 to Sm.

[0084] In the display area DA, each of the multiple scan lines G1 to Gn extends in the fifth direction D5. That is, the direction of extension of each of the multiple scan lines G1 to Gn is in the direction that makes a second angle θ2 with respect to the reference line RF. In other words, each of the multiple scan lines G1 to Gn extends from the first end 11A toward the fourth end 12B. Note that "extending from the first end 11A toward the fourth end 12B" is not limited to the case where each of the multiple scan lines G1 to Gn extends in a direction parallel to the line connecting the first end 11A and the fourth end 12B. For example, in the display area DA, each of the multiple scan lines G1 to Gn is parallel to each other.

[0085] In the display area DA, each of the multiple signal lines S1 to Sm extends in the fourth direction D4. That is, the direction of extension of each of the multiple signal lines S1 to Sm is in the direction that makes a first angle θ1 with respect to the reference line RF. In other words, each of the multiple signal lines S1 to Sm extends from the second end 11B toward the third end 12A. Note that "extending from the second end 11B toward the third end 12A" is not limited to the case where each of the multiple signal lines S1 to Sm extends in a direction parallel to the line connecting the second end 11B and the third end 12A. For example, in the display area DA, each of the multiple signal lines S1 to Sm is parallel to each other.

[0086] In the example shown in Figure 6, the gate driver GD is located on the first end 11A side of the third region A3. The source driver SD is located on the second end 11B side of the third region A3. Multiple gate drivers GD and source drivers SD may be provided.

[0087] Each of the multiple scan lines G1 to Gn is drawn from the display area DA to the non-display area NDA and then connected to the gate driver GD. For example, some of the multiple scan lines G1 to Gn, including the outermost scan line G1, are drawn to the first area A1, then pass through the first area A1 and the third area A3 and are connected to the gate driver GD. In this case, in the non-display area NDA, the outermost scan line G1 has a portion extending in the fifth direction D5, a portion extending in the second direction Y, and a portion extending toward the gate driver GD, but this is not an example. For example, the outermost scan line G1 may consist only of a portion extending in the fifth direction D5, without having a portion extending in the second direction Y. Of the multiple scan lines G1 to Gn, the other scan lines, including scan line Gn, are drawn to the third area A3 without being drawn to the first area A1 and are connected to the gate driver GD.

[0088] Each of the multiple signal lines S1 to Sm is drawn from the display area DA to the non-display area NDA and then connected to the source driver SD. For example, some of the multiple signal lines S1 to Sm, including the outermost signal line S1, are drawn to the second area A2, then pass through the second area A2 and the third area A3 and are connected to the source driver SD. In this case, in the non-display area NDA, the outermost signal line S1 has a portion extending in the fourth direction D4, a portion extending in the second direction Y, and a portion extending toward the source driver SD, but this is not an example. For example, the outermost signal line S1 may consist only of a portion extending in the fourth direction D4, without having a portion extending in the second direction Y. Of the multiple signal lines S1 to Sm, the other signal lines, including signal line Sm, are drawn to the third area A3 without being drawn to the second area A2 and are connected to the source driver SD.

[0089] Note that the connection relationships between the gate driver GD and each scan line G, and the relationship between the source driver SD and each signal line S are not limited to this example.

[0090] In this configuration example shown in Figure 6, the same effects as in the configuration example shown in Figure 5 can be obtained.

[0091] Figure 7 shows another example of a DSP display device configuration.

[0092] The configuration example shown in Figure 7 is a modified example of the display panel PNL and display area DA. Hereafter, components identical to those in the configuration examples in Figures 5 and 6 will be given the same reference numerals, and their descriptions may be omitted.

[0093] The display panel PNL, in a plan view, has a first side 11 and a second side 12 extending in a first direction X, as well as a third side 13 and a fourth side 14 extending in directions different from the first direction X and the second direction Y. In the illustrated example, the third side 13 extends in a fifth direction D5, and the fourth side 14 extends in a fourth direction D4. The extension directions of the third side 13 and the fourth side 14 are not limited to this example, but it is preferable that the extension direction of the third side 13 is as close to parallel as possible to the fifth direction D5, and the extension direction of the fourth side 14 is as close to parallel as possible to the fourth direction D4.

[0094] The third side 13 and the fourth side 14 face the first side 11 in the second direction Y. The third side 13 faces the fourth side 14 in the first direction X. The display area DA is located between the first side 11 and the third side 13, between the first side 11 and the fourth side 14, and between the third side 13 and the fourth side 14.

[0095] The display area DA includes the 5th side 15, the 6th side 16, the 7th side 17, and the 8th side 18.

[0096] The fifth side 15 to the eighth side 18 all extend in directions different from the first direction X and the second direction Y. For example, the fifth side 15 and the eighth side 18 extend in the fourth direction D4, and the sixth side 16 and the seventh side 17 extend in the fifth direction D5. The extension directions of the fifth side 15 to the eighth side 18 are not limited to this example, but it is preferable that the extension directions of the fifth side 15 and the eighth side 18 are nearly parallel to the fourth direction D4, and that the extension directions of the sixth side 16 and the seventh side 17 are nearly parallel to the fifth direction D5.

[0097] In the example in Figure 7, the display area DA is an octagon containing sides 15 through 18. However, the shape of the display area DA is not limited to this example. For example, it could be a polygon other than an octagon, or a rhombus formed only by sides 15 through 18. Furthermore, the display area DA does not necessarily have to contain all sides 15 through 18. For example, it could be a hexagon containing sides 17 and 18, or a circle.

[0098] The fifth side 15 is closer to the first end 11A than the eighth side 18, and the sixth side 16 is closer to the second end 11B than the seventh side 17. Also, the seventh side 17 is closer to the third side 13 than the sixth side 16, and the eighth side 18 is closer to the fourth side 14 than the fifth side 15.

[0099] In the example in Figure 7, the non-display area NDA includes the first area A1 and the second area A2 located on either side of the display area DA in the first direction X, and the third area A3 aligned with the display area DA in the second direction Y. That is, the first area A1, the display area DA, and the second area A2 are aligned in this order in the first direction X, and the third area A3 and the display area DA are aligned in the second direction Y. The boundaries of the first area A1 to the third area A3 are not strictly defined and may overlap with other areas.

[0100] In the display area DA, each of the multiple scan lines G1 to Gn extends in the fourth direction D4. Also, each of the multiple signal lines S1 to Sm extends in the fifth direction D5.

[0101] The extension directions of each of the multiple scan lines G1 to Gn and each of the multiple signal lines S1 to Sm are not limited to the above example. For example, as shown in the configuration in Figure 6, each of the multiple scan lines G1 to Gn may extend in the fifth direction D5, and each of the multiple signal lines S1 to Sm may extend in the fourth direction. Furthermore, the connection relationships between the gate driver GD and each scan line G, and the relationships between the source driver SD and each signal line S are not limited to this example.

[0102] The outermost scan line G1 extends parallel to the eighth side 18. No scan lines are drawn into the non-display area NDA between the fourth side 14 and the eighth side 18. Therefore, the area between the fourth side 14 and the eighth side 18 can be reduced, enabling a narrower bezel.

[0103] The outermost signal line S1 extends parallel to the seventh side 17. No signal lines are routed into the non-display area NDA between the third side 13 and the seventh side 17. Therefore, the area between the third side 13 and the seventh side 17 can be reduced, enabling a narrower bezel.

[0104] In the above embodiment, for example, transparent substrate 110 corresponds to the first transparent substrate, transparent substrate 120 corresponds to the second transparent substrate, and transparent substrate 140 corresponds to the third transparent substrate. The first region A1 corresponds to the first non-display region, and the second region A2 corresponds to the second non-display region.

[0105] As described above, this embodiment provides a display device capable of improving display quality.

[0106] All display devices that a person skilled in the art can implement by appropriately modifying the design based on the display devices described above as embodiments of the present invention also fall within the scope of the present invention insofar as they encompass the gist of the present invention.

[0107] Within the scope of the concept of this invention, a person skilled in the art can conceive of various modifications, and such modifications are also understood to fall within the scope of this invention. For example, any modifications made by a person skilled in the art to add, delete, or change the design of any of the above-described embodiments, or to add, omit, or change the conditions of any process, are also included within the scope of this invention, as long as they retain the essence of this invention.

[0108] Furthermore, any other effects and advantages brought about by the embodiments described above that are obvious from the description herein or that can be appropriately conceived by those skilled in the art are naturally considered to be brought about by the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0109] DSP...Display device, PNL...Display panel DA...display area, NDA...non-display area, A1...first area, A2...second area 110...Transparent substrate, 120...Transparent substrate, 130...Transparent substrate, 140...Transparent substrate LC...Liquid crystal layer, PE...Pixel electrode, SW...Switching element LE...light-emitting part, LEF...light-emitting surface, LG...light guide RF...Reference line, θ1...1st angle, θ2...2nd angle 11...First side, 11A...First end, 11B...Second end 12...Second side 12, 12A...Third end, 12B...Fourth end G...Scan line, S...Signal line, GD...Gate driver, SD...Source driver,

Claims

1. It comprises a display panel having a display area for displaying an image, and a plurality of light-emitting units having light-emitting surfaces that irradiate light toward the display panel, The aforementioned display panel is The device comprises a first transparent substrate, a second transparent substrate facing the first transparent substrate, a liquid crystal layer located between the first transparent substrate and the second transparent substrate and containing polymer-dispersed liquid crystal, scanning lines located between the first transparent substrate and the liquid crystal layer, and signal lines located between the first transparent substrate and the liquid crystal layer and intersecting the scanning lines. The plurality of light-emitting units are arranged in a plan view along the first side extending in the first direction of the display panel. In the display area, each of the scan lines and signal lines extends in a direction different from the first direction and the second direction perpendicular to the first direction, in a plan view. Display device.

2. The normal to the light-emitting surface is parallel to the second direction. The display device according to claim 1.

3. The direction in which the scan line extends forms a first angle with respect to a reference line parallel to the first direction in the display area. The direction in which the signal line extends forms a second angle with respect to the reference line. The first angle is an acute angle clockwise with respect to the reference line, The second angle is an acute angle that rotates counterclockwise with respect to the reference line. The display device according to claim 1.

4. The first side has a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, The second side of the display panel faces the first side in the second direction and extends in the first direction. The display area is located between the first side and the second side in the second direction. The second side has a third end facing the first end in the second direction, and a fourth end facing the second end in the second direction. The signal line extends in the display area from the first end toward the fourth end, The scan line extends from the second end toward the third end in the display area. The display device according to claim 1.

5. The gate driver to which the scan line is connected, The system further comprises a source driver to which the aforementioned signal lines are connected, The gate driver is located on the second end side, The source driver is located on the first end side, The display device according to claim 4.

6. The direction in which the signal line extends forms a first angle with respect to a reference line parallel to the first direction in the display area. The direction in which the scan line extends forms a second angle with respect to the reference line. The first angle is an acute angle clockwise with respect to the reference line, The second angle is an acute angle that rotates counterclockwise with respect to the reference line. The display device according to claim 1.

7. The first side has a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, The second side of the display panel faces the first side in the second direction and extends in the first direction. The display area is located between the first side and the second side in the second direction. The second side has a third end facing the first end in the second direction, and a fourth end facing the second end in the second direction. The scan line extends in the display area from the first end toward the fourth end, The signal line extends from the second end toward the third end in the display area. The display device according to claim 1.

8. The system further comprises a gate driver to which the scan line is connected, and a source driver to which the signal line is connected. The gate driver is located on the first end side, The source driver is located on the second end side. The display device according to claim 7.

9. Each of the first angle and the second angle is between 30 degrees and 45 degrees. The display device according to claim 3 or 6.

10. The first angle is equivalent to the second angle. The display device according to claim 3 or 6.

11. The display panel includes a polymer-dispersed liquid crystal, and a plurality of light-emitting units arranged in a first direction. The aforementioned display panel is The first non-display area, the display area, and the second non-display area are arranged in order in the first direction, In the display area, a plurality of scan lines are arranged in the first direction, The display area comprises a plurality of signal lines arranged in the first direction and intersecting the plurality of scan lines, The outermost scan line among the plurality of scan lines is located in either the first non-display area or the second non-display area, and extends in a direction different from the first direction and the second direction perpendicular to the first direction within the display area. The outermost signal line among the plurality of signal lines is located in the other of the first non-display area and the second non-display area, and extends in a direction different from the first direction and the second direction within the display area. Display device.

12. The plurality of scan lines are parallel to each other in the display area. The plurality of signal lines are parallel to each other in the display area. The display device according to claim 11.

13. Each of the plurality of light-emitting units has a light-emitting surface, The normal to the light-emitting surface is parallel to the second direction. The display device according to claim 11.

14. Each of the plurality of scan lines does not include a curved portion between two adjacent signal lines. Each of the plurality of signal lines does not include a curved portion between two adjacent scan lines. The display device according to claim 11.

15. A third transparent substrate superimposed on the aforementioned display panel, The third transparent substrate is further provided with a light guide that faces the side surface of the third transparent substrate and is provided between the plurality of light-emitting parts and the third transparent substrate. The display device according to claim 1 or 11.

16. The display panel further comprises a switching element electrically connected to the scan line and the signal line, and a pixel electrode electrically connected to the switching element. The pixel electrode is formed in the region surrounded by the signal line and the scan line. The display device according to claim 1 or 11.

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