Indication device

Abstract

To provide a display device that can suppress a decline in display quality. [Solution] A display device according to one embodiment comprises a display panel having a display area for displaying an image, and a first light source unit. The display area has a first area and a second area spaced further apart from the first light source unit in a second direction than the first area. Multiple scan lines in the first area have a first portion that forms a first angle with respect to a first direction between a first signal line and a second signal line. Multiple scan lines in the second area have a second portion that forms a second angle smaller than the first angle with respect to a first direction between a first signal line and a second signal line.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, display devices having a display panel with a polymer dispersed liquid crystal layer (PDLC), a light source, etc. have been proposed. The polymer dispersed liquid crystal layer can switch between a scattering state that scatters light and a transparent state that transmits light.

[0003] The display device can display an image in the scattering state. When the display panel is switched to the transparent state, the user can visually recognize the background through the display panel.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Therefore, one of the objectives of the present invention is to provide a display device capable of suppressing a decrease in display quality.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A display device according to one embodiment has a liquid crystal layer containing polymer-dispersed liquid crystal, and is capable of switching between a state in which light incident on the liquid crystal layer is transmitted and a state in which light is scattered, depending on the applied voltage. The display device comprises a display panel having a display area for displaying an image, and a first light source unit. The display panel has first signal lines and second signal lines arranged at intervals in a first direction and extending in a second direction different from the first direction, and a plurality of scan lines extending in the first direction so as to intersect the first signal lines and the second signal lines and arranged at intervals in the second direction. The display area has a first region and a second region spaced further apart from the first light source unit in the second direction than the first region. The plurality of scan lines in the first region have a first portion that forms a first angle with respect to the first direction between the first signal line and the second signal line. The plurality of scan lines in the second region have a second portion that forms a second angle smaller than the first angle with respect to the first direction between the first signal line and the second signal line.

[0007] Another embodiment of the display device includes a liquid crystal layer containing polymer-dispersed liquid crystal, and is capable of switching between a state in which light incident on the liquid crystal layer is transmitted and a state in which light is scattered, depending on the applied voltage. The display device includes a display panel for displaying an image and a light source unit. The display panel has first signal lines and second signal lines that are spaced apart in a first direction and extend in a second direction different from the first direction, and first scan lines and second scan lines that extend in the first direction so as to intersect the first signal lines and the second signal lines and are spaced apart in the second direction. The first scan line has a first bend between the first signal line and the second signal line. The second scan line has a second bend between the first signal line and the second signal line that bends at an angle different from the bend angle of the first bend. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1]Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of a display device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic plan view of the display device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic enlarged view of section IV shown in Figure 3. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic enlarged view of section V shown in Figure 3. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic enlarged view of section VI shown in Figure 3. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic plan view showing the region in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic plan view of the display device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a schematic plan view showing the region in the second embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a schematic plan view showing the region in the second embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a schematic plan view showing the region in the second embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a schematic plan view of the display device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a schematic plan view of the display device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display device according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a diagram illustrating another example of a bent section. [Figure 17] Figure 17 illustrates yet another example of a bent section. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a diagram illustrating yet another example of a bent section. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] Hereinafter, each embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the disclosure is merely an example, and for those that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art with appropriate modifications while maintaining the gist of the invention, they are naturally included in the scope of the present invention. Also, for the purpose of making the description clearer, the drawings may schematically represent the width, thickness, shape, etc. of each part compared to the actual aspect, but this is merely an example and does not limit the interpretation of the present invention. Further, in this specification and each figure, components that exhibit the same or similar functions as those described above with respect to the previously shown figures are given the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions that are redundant may be omitted as appropriate.

[0010] Note that in the drawings, for the sake of easy understanding as necessary, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis that are orthogonal to each other are described. 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. Looking at various elements parallel to the third direction Z is referred to as a plan view.

[0011] In each embodiment, as an example of a display device, a highly light-transmissive liquid crystal display device (so-called transparent display device) applying polymer-dispersed liquid crystal is disclosed. However, the configuration disclosed in this embodiment is also applicable to other types of display devices.

[0012] [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a display device DSP according to this embodiment. The display device DSP includes a display panel PNL, a light source unit LU1 (first light source unit), and a light guide LG. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the light source unit LU1 and the light guide LG are marked with broken lines and a part of them is omitted.

[0013] In the example shown in FIG. 1, the shape of the display panel PNL in plan view is a rectangular shape elongated in the second direction Y. However, the shape of the display panel PNL is not limited to this example, and for example, it may be a rectangular shape elongated in the first direction X, a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or the like. The display panel PNL includes a first substrate SUB1 and a second substrate SUB2 stacked in the third direction Z.

[0014] The length of the first substrate SUB1 in the second direction Y is larger than the length of the second substrate SUB2 in the second direction Y. The first substrate SUB1 has a mounting area MA formed in a portion protruding in a direction opposite to the second direction Y from the second substrate SUB2. The mounting area MA corresponds to an area of the first substrate SUB1 that does not overlap the second substrate SUB2. An integrated circuit or a flexible circuit board (not shown) is mounted in the mounting area MA.

[0015] The display panel PNL has a display area DA for displaying an image and a frame-shaped peripheral area SA surrounding the display area DA. Both the display area DA and the peripheral area SA are formed in a portion where the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 overlap. The display area DA includes a plurality of pixels PX arranged in a matrix in the first direction X and the second direction Y.

[0016] The display panel PNL further includes a liquid crystal layer LC sealed between the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2. As schematically shown enlarged below FIG. 1, the liquid crystal layer LC is composed of a polymer dispersed liquid crystal containing a polymer 31 and liquid crystal molecules 32.

[0017] In one example, the polymer 31 is a liquid crystalline polymer. The polymer 31 is formed in a streak shape extending along the first direction X and arranged side by side in the second direction Y. The liquid crystal molecules 32 are dispersed in the gaps of the polymer 31 and are oriented such that their long axes are along the first direction X.

[0018] Each of the polymer 31 and the liquid crystal molecules 32 possesses optical anisotropy or refractive index anisotropy. The responsiveness of polymer 31 to an electric field is lower than that of liquid crystal molecules 32. In one example, the orientation direction of polymer 31 hardly changes regardless of the presence or absence of an electric field. In contrast, the orientation direction of liquid crystal molecules 32 changes in response to the voltage applied to the liquid crystal layer LC.

[0019] When no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer LC, the optical axes of the polymer 31 and the liquid crystal molecules 32 are parallel to each other, and light incident on the liquid crystal layer LC is transmitted through with almost no scattering (transparent state).

[0020] When a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer LC, the optical axes of the polymer 31 and the liquid crystal molecules 32 intersect with each other, and the light incident on the liquid crystal layer LC is scattered within the liquid crystal layer LC (scattering state). In other words, the display device DSP can switch between a transparent state and a scattering state depending on the applied voltage.

[0021] As shown in the enlarged view above Figure 1, the display area DA contains multiple scan lines G and multiple signal lines S. The multiple scan lines G extend in the first direction X and are spaced apart in the second direction Y. The multiple signal lines S extend in the second direction Y and are spaced apart in the first direction X. The multiple signal lines S intersect with the multiple scan lines G.

[0022] Each pixel PX comprises a switching element SW, a pixel electrode PE, a common electrode CE, and a capacitor CS. The switching element SW is composed of, for example, a thin-film transistor (TFT) and is electrically connected to the scan line G and the signal line S. The pixel electrode PE is electrically connected to the switching element SW.

[0023] The liquid crystal layer LC (particularly the liquid crystal molecules 32) is driven by the electric field generated between the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE. A 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.

[0024] The light source unit LU1 and the light guide LG are arranged along the mounting area MA. The light source unit LU1 has multiple light-emitting elements LS aligned in the second direction Y. Each light-emitting element LS illuminates the light guide LG. As the light guide LG, a lens such as a prism lens can be used.

[0025] For example, a plurality of light-emitting elements LS may include a light-emitting element that emits red light, a light-emitting element that emits green light, and a light-emitting element that emits blue light. These light-emitting elements may be arranged in a first direction X, or they may be stacked in a third direction Z. LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) can be used as the light-emitting elements LS.

[0026] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display device DSP according to this embodiment. In this figure, the structure of the display panel PNL and the like are schematically shown, and elements such as scan lines G, signal lines S, and switching elements SW are omitted.

[0027] The first substrate SUB1 is bonded to the second substrate SUB2 by a sealing material SE. The sealing material SE has a shape that surrounds the display area DA in a plan view. The liquid crystal layer LC is sealed within the space surrounded by the sealing material SE.

[0028] The first substrate SUB1 is provided with the pixel electrode PE described above. The second substrate SUB2 is provided with the common electrode CE described above. The pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE face each other via a liquid crystal layer LC. Note that the arrangement of the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE is not limited to this example. In another example, the first substrate SUB1 may be provided with both the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE.

[0029] The first substrate SUB1 has a main surface F1, a main surface F2 opposite to main surface F1, and side surfaces E1a and E1b connecting main surface F1 and main surface F2. The second substrate SUB2 has a main surface F3, a main surface F4 opposite to main surface F3, and side surfaces E2a and E2b connecting main surface F3 and main surface F4. Main surface F3 faces main surface F2 via a liquid crystal layer LC.

[0030] The display device DSP further includes a cover member CM1 superimposed on the display panel PNL. The cover member CM1 is transparent, and in one example, it is a cover glass made of glass. The cover member CM1 may also be made of a transparent resin material such as plastic.

[0031] The thickness of the cover member CM1 is sufficiently greater than the thickness of the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2. Here, thickness is the distance along the third direction Z. In one example, the cover member CM1 has a thickness of more than twice the thickness of the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2.

[0032] The cover member CM1 has a main surface F5 facing the main surface F4, a main surface F6 on the opposite side of main surface F5, and side surfaces E3a and E3b connecting main surfaces F5 and F6. Main surface F5 is bonded to main surface F4 by a transparent adhesive layer AD1. The adhesive layer AD1 is formed by, for example, OCA (Optical Clear Adhensive) or OCR (Optical Clear Resin).

[0033] Sides E1a, E2a, and E3a are all located on the light-emitting element LS side (light-receiving side). Sides E1b, E2b, and E3b are all located on the opposite side of the light-emitting element LS (anti-light-receiving side). The mounting area MA is formed on the portion of the first substrate SUB1 that protrudes beyond side E2a.

[0034] The display panel PNL may further include a reflective material RF1. The reflective material RF1 is located near the sides E1b, E2b, and E3b. In other words, in the second direction Y, the reflective material RF1 is located on the opposite side of the light source unit LU1, with the cover member CM1 in between. The reflective material RF1 is, for example, a reflective tape attached to the sides E1b, E2b, and E3b.

[0035] The light-emitting element LS faces the side surface E3a, with the light guide LG in between. Figure 2 shows an example of the path of light L emitted by the light-emitting element LS.

[0036] The light-emitting element LS emits light along the second direction Y. Specifically, the light-emitting element LS emits light toward the side surface E3a. The light L emitted from the light-emitting element LS passes through the light guide LG and enters the side surface E3a.

[0037] This light L moves towards the incoming light side while undergoing repeated total internal reflection between the main surfaces F1 and F6. The light L that reaches the sides E1b, E2b, and E3b is reflected by the reflective material RF1 and moves towards the incoming light side while undergoing repeated total internal reflection between the main surfaces F1 and F6.

[0038] In the vicinity of a transparent pixel PX, light L is hardly scattered by the liquid crystal layer LC. Therefore, light L hardly leaks out of the first substrate SUB1 and the cover member CM1.

[0039] On the other hand, near a pixel PX in a scattered state, light L is scattered by the liquid crystal layer LC. This scattered light SL is emitted from the first substrate SUB1 and the cover member CM1 and is visible to the user as a displayed image. By gradually defining the voltage applied to the pixel electrode PE within a predetermined range, it is also possible to achieve gradation in the degree of scattering (brightness).

[0040] Furthermore, in the vicinity of the transparent pixels PX, ambient light incident on the first substrate SUB1 and the cover member CM1 is transmitted through the liquid crystal layer LC with almost no scattering. That is, when viewing the display device DSP from the first substrate SUB1 side, the background on the cover member CM1 side is visible, and when viewing the display device DSP from the cover member CM1 side, the background on the cover member CM1 side is visible.

[0041] For example, a field sequential method can be used as the image display method by the display device DSP, which repeatedly displays a red image by lighting up a red light-emitting element among multiple light-emitting elements LS, a green image by lighting up a green light-emitting element, and a blue image by lighting up a blue light-emitting element.

[0042] Next, the scan lines provided by the display panel PNL of this embodiment will be described.

[0043] Figure 3 is a schematic plan view of the DSP display device according to this embodiment. Figure 4 is a schematic enlarged view of section IV shown in Figure 3. Figure 5 is a schematic enlarged view of section V shown in Figure 3. Figure 6 is a schematic enlarged view of section VI shown in Figure 3.

[0044] In Figures 3 to 6, the direction of light propagation emitted by the light-emitting element LS of the light source unit LU1 is indicated by arrow A1. The emission surface of the light-emitting element LS faces the second direction Y. In other words, the normal direction of this emission surface is parallel to the second direction Y. As shown in Figure 3, multiple signal lines S extend in the second direction Y and are spaced apart in the first direction X, and multiple scan lines G are spaced apart in the second direction Y.

[0045] As shown in Figure 3, the display area DA includes area 10A, area 20A, and area 30A. In this embodiment, area 10A corresponds to the first area, area 20A corresponds to the third area, and area 30A corresponds to the second area. Areas 10A, 20A, and 30A are arranged in this order in the second direction Y.

[0046] Region 20A is located between region 10A and region 30A. Region 30A is further away from the light source unit LU1 in the second direction Y than regions 10A and 20A. The scan lines G located in these regions 10A, 20A, and 30A each have different shapes.

[0047] Here, we will focus on two adjacent signal lines S1 and S2 among the multiple signal lines S, and describe the shapes of scan lines G1, G2, and G3 in regions 10A, 20A, and 30A. In this embodiment, signal line S1 corresponds to the first signal line, signal line S2 corresponds to the second signal line, scan line G1 corresponds to the first scan line, and scan line G2 corresponds to the second scan line.

[0048] First, let's explain region 10A. Region 10A corresponds to the region located on the light-receiving side of the display region DA. Figure 4 shows an example of pixel PX1 in region 10A. As shown in Figure 4, pixel PX1 is demarcated by signal lines S1 and S2 and two scan lines G1.

[0049] Pixels PX1 are arranged in a matrix in region 10A in the first direction X and the second direction Y. Signal lines S1 and S2 extend linearly in the second direction Y and are formed as strips with a nearly constant width, except near the switching element SW which will be described later.

[0050] In region 10A, multiple scan lines G1 are arranged at intervals in the second direction Y. As shown in Figure 4, the multiple scan lines G1 intersect with signal lines S1 and S2, respectively. The scan lines G1 extend in a direction intersecting the direction of light propagation. The multiple scan lines G1 are bent between signal lines S1 and S2.

[0051] Each of the multiple scan lines G1 has a bent portion 10 (first bent portion) that bends between signal line S1 and signal line S2. In other words, the scan line G1 has multiple bent portions 10 aligned in the first direction X in region 10A.

[0052] The bent portion 10 is bent, for example, so as to be convex in the second direction Y (the direction away from the light-emitting element LS). The bent portion 10 is bent at a position further from the light source unit LU1 than the intersection point C1 of the scan line G1 and the signal lines S1 and S2.

[0053] Furthermore, the bent portion 10 is furthest from the light source unit LU1 at approximately the center in the first direction X between signal lines S1 and S2. In other respects, the bent portion 10 has a line-symmetric shape.

[0054] The bent portion 10 has a portion 11 (first portion) and a portion 12. Portion 11 is connected to intersection C1 on the signal line S1 side, and portion 12 is connected to intersection C1 on the signal line S2 side. Portions 11 and 12 extend in directions different from the first direction X and the second direction Y in a plan view. Portions 11 and 12 extend in directions different from each other.

[0055] Here, we define direction D1 as the direction that intersects the first direction X at an acute angle counterclockwise, and direction D2 as the direction that intersects the first direction X at an acute angle clockwise. Note that the angle between the first direction X and direction D1, and the angle between the first direction X and direction D2 are, for example, the same, but this is not limited to this example, and the angle between the first direction X and direction D1 may be different from the angle between the first direction X and direction D2.

[0056] Part 11 extends linearly along direction D1, and part 12 extends linearly along direction D2. The length of part 11 is, for example, equivalent to the length of part 12.

[0057] Focusing on part 11, we define the angle between part 11 and the first direction X as angle θ1 (first angle). Part 11 is formed at an angle θ1 with respect to the first direction X. In other words, part 11 is inclined at an angle θ1 with respect to the first direction X.

[0058] The angle θ1 is, for example, 45 degrees or less, and in one example it is 45 degrees. Also, the angle θ10 between part 11 and part 12 is, for example, 90 degrees, but is not limited to this example. The angle θ10 is the angle counterclockwise from part 11 in a plan view.

[0059] Pixel PX1 comprises a switching element SW and a pixel electrode PE1. In the example shown in Figure 4, the switching element SW is electrically connected to one of the scan lines G1 and the signal line S1.

[0060] The switching element SW comprises a semiconductor layer, a gate electrode, a source electrode, and a drain electrode. The pixel electrode PE1 is positioned between signal line S1 and signal line S2, and between the two scan lines G1.

[0061] In the example shown in Figure 4, the pixel electrode PE1 has almost the same shape as the region enclosed by the signal lines S1 and S2 and the two scan lines G1, except for the vicinity of the switching element SW. The scan line G1 located at the bottom of Figure 4 is positioned between the pixel electrode PE1 and the light-emitting element LS in the second direction Y.

[0062] Next, we will describe region 20A. Region 20A is located in the center of the display region DA in the second direction Y. Figure 5 shows an example of pixel PX2 in region 20A. As shown in Figure 5, pixel PX2 is demarcated by signal lines S1 and S2 and two scan lines G2.

[0063] Pixels PX2 are arranged in a matrix in region 20A in the first direction X and the second direction Y. In region 20A, multiple scan lines G2 are arranged at intervals in the second direction Y. The multiple scan lines G2 are further apart from the light source unit LU1 than the multiple scan lines G1 in region 10A.

[0064] As shown in Figure 5, multiple scan lines G2 intersect with signal lines S1 and S2, respectively. The scan lines G2 extend in a direction intersecting the direction of light propagation. Multiple scan lines G2 bend between signal lines S1 and S2.

[0065] Each of the multiple scan lines G2 has a bent portion 20 (second bent portion) that bends between signal line S1 and signal line S2. In other words, the scan line G2 has multiple bent portions 20 aligned in the first direction X in region 20A.

[0066] The bent portion 20 is bent, for example, so as to be convex toward the second direction Y. The bent portion 20 is bent at a position further from the light source unit LU1 than the intersection point C2 of the scan line G2 and the signal lines S1 and S2.

[0067] Furthermore, the bent portion 20 is furthest from the light source unit LU1 at approximately the center in the first direction X between signal lines S1 and S2. In other respects, the bent portion 20 has a line-symmetric shape.

[0068] The bent portion 20 has a portion 21 (third portion) and a portion 22. Portion 21 is connected to intersection C2 on the signal line S1 side, and portion 22 is connected to intersection C2 on the signal line S2 side. Portions 21 and 22 extend in directions different from the first direction X and the second direction Y in a plan view. Portions 21 and 22 extend in directions different from each other.

[0069] Here, we define direction D3 as the direction that intersects the first direction X at an acute angle counterclockwise, and direction D4 as the direction that intersects the first direction X at an acute angle clockwise. Note that the angle between the first direction X and direction D3, and the angle between the first direction X and direction D4 are, for example, the same, but this is not limited to this example, and the angle between the first direction X and direction D3 may be different from the angle between the first direction X and direction D4.

[0070] Part 21 extends linearly along direction D3, and part 22 extends linearly along direction D4. The length of part 21 is, for example, equivalent to the length of part 22.

[0071] Focusing on portion 21, we define the angle between the first direction X and portion 21 as angle θ2 (the third angle). Portion 21 is formed at an angle θ2 with respect to the first direction X. In other words, portion 21 is inclined at an angle θ2 with respect to the first direction X.

[0072] Angle θ2 is smaller than angle θ1 (shown in Figure 4), and in one example it is 30 degrees. Also, the angle θ20 between part 21 and part 22 is different from angle θ10 (shown in Figure 4). Angle θ20 is larger than angle θ10. In a plan view, angle θ20 is the angle counterclockwise from part 21. In this embodiment, angles θ10 and θ20 are examples of bending angles.

[0073] Pixel PX2 comprises a switching element SW and a pixel electrode PE2. In the example shown in Figure 5, the switching element SW is electrically connected to one of the scan lines G2 and the signal line S1.

[0074] The pixel electrode PE2 is positioned between signal line S1 and signal line S2, and between the two scan lines G2. In the example shown in Figure 5, the pixel electrode PE2 has approximately the same shape as the region enclosed by signal lines S1, S2 and the two scan lines G2, except near the switching element SW.

[0075] Next, we will explain region 30A. Region 30A corresponds to the region located on the ingress side of the display region DA. Figure 6 shows an example of pixel PX3 in region 30A. As shown in Figure 6, pixel PX3 is demarcated by signal lines S1 and S2 and two scan lines G3.

[0076] Pixels PX3 are arranged in a matrix in region 30A in the first direction X and the second direction Y. In region 30A, multiple scan lines G3 are arranged at intervals in the second direction Y. As shown in Figure 6, the multiple scan lines G3 intersect with signal lines S1 and S2, respectively. The scan lines G3 extend in a direction intersecting the direction of light propagation.

[0077] Multiple scan lines G3 extend in a straight line between signal line S1 and signal line S2. In other words, scan lines G3 do not bend between signal line S1 and signal line S2.

[0078] Multiple scan lines G3 have a portion 30 (second portion) between signal line S1 and signal line S2. The portion 30 is, for example, parallel to the first direction X. Here, the angle between the first direction X and the portion 30 is defined as angle θ3 (second angle). The portion 30 is formed at an angle θ3 with respect to the first direction X.

[0079] These angles θ1 through θ3 are sometimes referred to as wiring angles. Angle θ3 is smaller than angles θ1 and θ2, and greater than or equal to 0 degrees. In one example, angle θ3 is 0 degrees. From another perspective, angle θ2 is smaller than angle θ1 and greater than angle θ3. Note that since angle θ3 is 0 degrees, angle θ3 is not shown in Figure 5.

[0080] Pixel PX3 comprises a switching element SW and a pixel electrode PE3. In the example shown in Figure 6, the switching element SW is electrically connected to one of the scan lines G3 and the signal line S1.

[0081] The pixel electrode PE3 is positioned between signal line S1 and signal line S2, and between the two scan lines G3. In the example shown in Figure 6, the pixel electrode PE3 has approximately the same shape as the region enclosed by signal lines S1, S2 and the two scan lines G3, except for the vicinity of the switching element SW.

[0082] Focusing on the shapes of pixels PX1, PX2, and PX3 in regions 10A, 20A, and 30A, we see that the shapes of these pixels PX1, PX2, and PX3 are all different. In other words, the shapes of pixel electrodes PE1, PE2, and PE3 in regions 10A, 20A, and 30A are all different.

[0083] As shown in Figure 3, the display area DA further includes area 10B and area 20B. In this embodiment, area 10B corresponds to the first change area, and area 10B corresponds to the second change area.

[0084] Regions 10A, 10B, 20A, 20B, and 30A are arranged in this order in the second direction Y. Region 10B is located between region 10A and region 20A. Region 20B is located between region 20A and region 30A.

[0085] The length of region 10A in the second direction Y is equal to the length of regions 20A and 30A in the second direction Y in the example shown in Figure 3. The length of region 10B in the second direction Y is equal to the length of region 20B in the second direction Y in the example shown in Figure 3. The lengths of regions 10A, 20A, and 30A in the second direction Y are greater than, for example, the lengths of regions 10B and 20B in the second direction Y.

[0086] Figure 7 is a schematic plan view showing regions 10B and 20B in this embodiment. Figure 7 shows an example of pixels PX4 and PX5 in regions 10B and 20B.

[0087] In region 10B, multiple scan lines G4 are arranged at intervals in the second direction Y. Each of the multiple scan lines G4 has a bent portion 40 between signal line S1 and signal line S2. In other words, the scan line G4 has multiple bent portions 40 arranged in the first direction X in region 10B.

[0088] The bent portion 40 is bent, for example, so as to be convex in the second direction Y. The bent portion 40 is furthest from the light source unit LU1 at approximately the center in the first direction X between signal lines S1 and S2. In other respects, the bent portion 10 has a line-symmetric shape.

[0089] The multiple bent portions 40 in region 10B are inclined at different angles. Specifically, the angle θ40 of the bent portion 40 increases as we move in the second direction Y. Focusing on two adjacent scan lines G4 in the second direction Y, the portion 41 (first inclined portion) extending from the intersection with the signal line S1 is inclined at different angles with respect to the first direction X.

[0090] Specifically, the angle θ4 between the first direction X and part 41 decreases as we move in the second direction Y. Focusing on a part 41 adjacent to the second direction Y, the angle θ4 decreases by, for example, 1 degree. Note that the difference in angle can be greater than or less than 1 degree.

[0091] Among the multiple scan lines G4, the angle θ4 of the portion 41 of scan line G4 closest to region 10A is the largest, and the angle θ4 of the portion 41 of scan line G4 closest to region 20A is the smallest.

[0092] In relation to regions 10A, 20A, and 30A, angle θ4 is smaller than angle θ1 and larger than angle θ2. Also, angle θ40 is larger than angle θ10 and smaller than angle θ20.

[0093] Focusing on the shape of pixel PX4 in region 10B, the shapes of adjacent pixels PX4 in the second direction Y are all different. In other words, the shapes of adjacent pixel electrodes PE4 in the second direction Y are all different.

[0094] In region 20B, multiple scan lines G5 are arranged at intervals in the second direction Y. The multiple scan lines G5 have a bent portion 50 between signal line S1 and signal line S2. In other words, the scan lines G5 have multiple bent portions 50 arranged in the first direction X in region 20B.

[0095] The bent portion 50 is bent, for example, so as to be convex in the second direction Y. The bent portion 50 is furthest from the light source unit LU1 at approximately the center in the first direction X between signal lines S1 and S2. In other respects, the bent portion 10 has a line-symmetric shape.

[0096] The multiple bent sections 50 in region 20B are inclined at different angles. Specifically, the angle θ50 of the bent section 50 increases as you move in the second direction Y. Focusing on two adjacent scan lines G5 in the second direction Y, the portion 51 (second inclined section) extending from the intersection with the signal line S1 is inclined at different angles with respect to the first direction X.

[0097] Specifically, the angle θ5 between the first direction X and part 51 decreases as we move in the second direction Y. Focusing on a part 51 adjacent to the second direction Y, the angle θ5 decreases by, for example, 1 degree. Note that the difference in angle can be greater than or less than 1 degree.

[0098] Among the multiple scan lines G5, the angle θ5 of the portion 51 of scan line G5 closest to region 20A is the largest, and the angle θ5 of the portion 51 of scan line G5 closest to region 30A is the smallest.

[0099] In relation to regions 10A, 20A, and 30A, angle θ5 is smaller than angle θ2 and larger than angle θ3. Also, angle θ50 is larger than angle θ20 and smaller than 180 degrees.

[0100] Focusing on the shape of pixel PX5 in region 20B, the shapes of adjacent pixels PX5 in the second direction Y are all different. In other words, the shapes of adjacent pixel electrodes PE5 in the second direction Y are all different.

[0101] The light emitted from the light source unit LU1 is scattered by various wirings arranged on the display panel PNL, mainly those that run in a direction intersecting the direction of light propagation (for example, scan lines).

[0102] When a large amount of light scattering occurs on the incoming side, it becomes difficult for light to reach the incoming side. Specifically, the brightness on the incoming side becomes higher, and the brightness on the incoming side becomes lower. This results in uneven brightness in the second direction Y. This can cause a decrease in display quality. When the scan line extends linearly in the first direction X, the amount of light scattered by the scan line is most likely to be greatest.

[0103] In this embodiment, the display area DA has an area 10A located on the light-receiving side. The scan line G1 in area 10A is bent. Specifically, the scan line G1 has a portion 11 formed at an angle θ1 with respect to the first direction X.

[0104] Compared to the case where the scan line extends linearly in the first direction X, the bending of the scan line G1 as described above makes it possible to suppress the amount of scattered light in portion 11 of the scan line G1. This makes it easier to deliver the light emitted from the light source unit LU1 to the ingress side.

[0105] In this embodiment, the display area DA further comprises areas 20A and 30A. The portion 21 of scan line G2 in area 20A is formed at an angle θ2, and the portion 30 of scan line G3 in area 30A is formed at an angle θ3. The angle θ2 is smaller than the angle θ1 of scan line G1 and larger than the angle θ3.

[0106] Specifically, the angle with respect to the first direction X decreases as the distance from the light source unit LU1 increases. In other words, the scan lines G1, G2, and G3 in the display area DA are configured such that the amount of light decreases as they approach the light source unit LU1 due to scattering by the scan lines.

[0107] Thus, in this embodiment, light scattering on the light-receiving side is suppressed, allowing light to reach the reverse light-receiving side. As a result, by suppressing the brightness on the light-receiving side and improving the brightness on the reverse light-receiving side, the uniformity of brightness in the second direction Y is improved, and a decrease in display quality can be suppressed.

[0108] Here, as a comparative example, the measured luminance values ​​for the light-receiving side, the central part, and the reverse-light-receiving side are shown when the shape of multiple scan lines in the display area DA is the same.

[0109] When the shape of the scan lines is parallel to the first direction X, the brightness on the incoming side is 9.8 (nit), the brightness in the central part is 4.9 (nit), the brightness on the reverse side is 3.7 (nit), and the brightness uniformity is 37%. Brightness uniformity is calculated by dividing the brightness on the reverse side by the brightness on the incoming side and multiplying by 100.

[0110] When the shape of the scan line was the shape of scan line G2 shown in Figure 5, the brightness on the light-receiving side was 9.3 (nit), the brightness in the central part was 4.5 (nit), the brightness on the reverse side was 3.3 (nit), and the brightness uniformity was 35%.

[0111] When the shape of the scan line was the shape of scan line G1 shown in Figure 4, the brightness on the light-receiving side was 8.2 (nit), the brightness in the central part was 4.0 (nit), the brightness on the reverse light-receiving side was 3.1 (nit), and the brightness uniformity was 36%.

[0112] In contrast, in this embodiment, the brightness on the light-receiving side (region 10A) was 8.2 (nit), the brightness in the central part (region 20A) was 4.5 (nit), and the brightness on the side opposite the light-receiving side (region 30A) was 3.7 (nit), resulting in a brightness uniformity of 45%. Thus, it was confirmed that this embodiment showed improved brightness uniformity compared to the comparative examples described above.

[0113] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the length of scan line G1 is greatest in region 10A, and the length of scan line G3 is greatest in region 30A. Focusing on the outer wiring in the peripheral region SA, the length of the outer wiring from the driver (not shown) to scan line G1 is greatest, and the length of the outer wiring from the driver to scan line G3 is greatest.

[0114] Therefore, by focusing on the wiring lengths including scan lines G1, G2, G3 and outer wiring in the display area DA and the peripheral area SA, the difference in wiring lengths on the light-receiving side, the central part, and the reverse-light-receiving side can be minimized. This reduces the difference in wiring capacitance, enabling stable control.

[0115] In this embodiment, the display area DA further includes areas 10B and 20B. In areas 10B and 20B, the shape of the scan lines gradually changes in the second direction Y. Therefore, since the shape of the scan lines does not change abruptly, the light scattering state does not change significantly, making it easier to maintain brightness uniformity. From another perspective, since the area per pixel does not change significantly in the second direction Y, it does not significantly affect the appearance of the displayed image.

[0116] With a DSP display device configured as described above, a decrease in display quality can be suppressed. In addition, various other desirable effects can be obtained from this embodiment.

[0117] In this embodiment, the display area DA had areas 10A, 20A, and 30A, but the display area DA does not necessarily have to have, for example, area 20A or area 30A. Furthermore, the display area DA may have other areas. These other areas are, for example, areas located between area 20A and area 30A that have multiple scan lines with a wiring angle of 15 degrees.

[0118] Next, other embodiments will be described. In the other embodiments described below, components similar to those in the first embodiment described above will be given the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and their detailed descriptions may be omitted or simplified.

[0119] [Second Embodiment] Figure 8 is a schematic plan view of the display device DSP according to this embodiment. This embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the display device DSP further comprises a light source unit LU2 (second light source unit).

[0120] The light source unit LU2 is located on the opposite side from the light source unit LU1. In other words, the light source unit LU2 faces the side E3b of the cover member CM1, with the cover member CM1 in between.

[0121] The light source unit LU2 is equipped with multiple light-emitting elements LS arranged in the second direction Y. In Figure 8, the direction of light propagation emitted by the light-emitting elements LS of the light source unit LU2 is indicated by arrow A2. The display device DSP further includes a light guide LG positioned between the cover member CM1 and the light source unit LU2.

[0122] The display area includes area 10A, area 20A, area 30A, area 40A, and area 50A. In this embodiment, area 10A corresponds to the first area, area 20A corresponds to the fifth area, area 30A corresponds to the second area, area 40A corresponds to the sixth area, and area 50A corresponds to the fourth area. Area 40A is located between area 30A and area 50A.

[0123] Regions 10A, 20A, 30A, 40A, and 50A are arranged in this order in the second direction Y. Region 50A is the region closest to the light source unit LU2, more so than regions 10A, 20A, 30A, and 40A.

[0124] In this embodiment, region 10A is configured similarly to region 10A in the first embodiment (shown in Figure 4), region 20A is configured similarly to region 20A in the first embodiment (shown in Figure 5), and region 30A is configured similarly to region 30A in the first embodiment (shown in Figure 6). Furthermore, region 50A is configured similarly to, for example, region 10A, and region 40A is configured similarly to, for example, region 20A.

[0125] Figure 9 is a schematic plan view showing regions 10A and 50A in this embodiment. The scan line G1 in regions 10A and 50A each has a bent portion 10 between the signal line S1 and the signal line S2. The bent portion 10 is bent, for example, so as to be convex toward the second direction Y. In other words, the bent portion 10 in region 50A is bent so as to be convex toward the light-emitting element LS of the light source unit LU2.

[0126] The bent portion 10 has a portion 11 and a portion 12. In this embodiment, portion 11 of the scan line G1 in region 10A corresponds to the first portion, and portion 11 of the scan line G1 in region 50A corresponds to the fourth portion.

[0127] Part 11 is inclined at an angle θ1 with respect to the first direction X. In this embodiment, the angle θ1 in region 10A corresponds to the first angle, and the angle θ1 in region 50A corresponds to the fourth angle. The angle θ1 in region 50A is substantially equal to, for example, the angle θ1 in region 10A. In one example, the angle θ1 is 45 degrees. However, the angle θ1 in region 50A may be different from the angle θ1 in region 10A.

[0128] In the example shown in Figure 4, the pixel electrode PE1 has almost the same shape as the region enclosed by the signal lines S1 and S2 and the two scan lines G1, except for the vicinity of the switching element SW. The shape of the pixel PX1 (pixel electrode PE1) in region 50A is the same as the shape of the pixel PX1 (pixel electrode PE1) in region 10A.

[0129] Figure 10 is a schematic plan view showing regions 20A and 40A in this embodiment. The scan line G2 in regions 20A and 40A each has a bent portion 20 between signal line S1 and signal line S2. The bent portion 20 is bent, for example, so as to be convex toward the second direction Y.

[0130] The bent portion 20 has a portion 21 and a portion 22. In this embodiment, portion 21 of the scan line G2 in region 20A corresponds to the fifth portion, and portion 21 of the scan line G2 in region 40A corresponds to the sixth portion.

[0131] Part 21 is inclined at an angle θ2 with respect to the first direction X. In this embodiment, the angle θ2 in region 20A corresponds to the fifth angle, and the angle θ2 in region 40A corresponds to the sixth angle. The angle θ2 in region 40A is substantially equal to, for example, the angle θ2 in region 20A. Note that the angle θ2 in region 40A may be different from the angle θ2 in region 10A.

[0132] In relation to other regions, the angle θ2 in regions 20A and 40A is smaller than the angle θ1 in regions 10A and 50A, and larger than the angle θ3 in region 30A. In one example, the angle θ2 is 30 degrees.

[0133] In the example shown in Figure 10, the pixel electrode PE2 has almost the same shape as the region enclosed by the signal lines S1 and S2 and the two scan lines G2, except for the vicinity of the switching element SW. The shape of the pixel PX2 (pixel electrode PE2) in region 40A is the same as the shape of the pixel PX2 (pixel electrode PE2) in region 20A.

[0134] As shown in Figure 8, the display area further comprises area 10B, area 20B, area 30B, and area 40B. In this embodiment, area 10B corresponds to the third change area, area 20B corresponds to the fourth change area, area 30B corresponds to the fifth change area, and area 40B corresponds to the sixth change area.

[0135] Region 10B is located between region 10A and region 20A, region 20B is located between region 20A and region 30A, region 30B is located between region 30A and region 40A, and region 40B is located between region 40A and region 50A.

[0136] In this embodiment, the scan lines in region 10B are configured in the same way as in region 10B in the first embodiment (shown in Figure 7), and the scan lines in region 20B are configured in the same way as in region 20B in the first embodiment (shown in Figure 7). In this embodiment, portion 41 in region 10B corresponds to the third inclined portion, and portion 51 in region 20B corresponds to the fourth inclined portion.

[0137] Now, let's describe regions 30B and 40B. Figure 11 is a schematic plan view showing regions 30B and 40B in this embodiment.

[0138] In region 30B, multiple scan lines G6 are arranged at intervals in the second direction Y. The multiple scan lines G6 have a bent portion 60 between signal line S1 and signal line S2. The bent portion 60 is bent, for example, so as to be convex in the second direction Y.

[0139] The multiple bent sections 60 in region 30B are each inclined at different angles. Specifically, the angle θ60 of the bent section 60 increases as it moves in the direction opposite to the second direction Y (the direction away from the light source unit LU2).

[0140] Focusing on two adjacent scan lines G6 in the second direction Y, the portion 61 (fifth inclined portion) extending from the intersection with the signal line S1 is inclined at different angles with respect to the first direction X. Specifically, the angle θ6 between the first direction X and portion 61 decreases as the direction opposite to the second direction Y progresses. Focusing on the portion 61 adjacent to the second direction Y, the angle θ6 decreases by, for example, 1 degree. Note that the difference in angle may be greater or less than 1 degree.

[0141] In relation to regions 30A, 40A, and 50A, angle θ6 is smaller than angle θ2 and larger than angle θ3. Also, angle θ60 is larger than angle θ20 and smaller than 180 degrees.

[0142] Furthermore, focusing on the shape of pixels PX6 (pixel electrode PE6) in region 30B, the shapes of adjacent pixels PX6 (pixel electrode PE6) in the second direction Y are all different.

[0143] In region 40B, multiple scan lines G7 are arranged at intervals in the second direction Y. The multiple scan lines G7 have a bent portion 70 between signal line S1 and signal line S2. The bent portion 70 is bent, for example, so as to be convex in the second direction Y.

[0144] The multiple bent sections 70 in region 40B are inclined at different angles. Specifically, the angle θ70 of the bent section 70 increases as the direction moves in the opposite direction to the second direction Y.

[0145] Focusing on two adjacent scan lines G7 in the second direction Y, the portion 71 (sixth inclined portion) extending from the intersection with the signal line S1 is inclined at different angles with respect to the first direction X. Specifically, the angle θ7 between the first direction X and portion 71 decreases as the direction opposite to the second direction Y progresses. Focusing on the portion 71 adjacent to the second direction Y, the angle θ7 decreases by, for example, 1 degree. Note that the difference in angle may be greater than or less than 1 degree.

[0146] In relation to regions 30A, 40A, and 50A, angle θ7 is smaller than angle θ1 and larger than angle θ2. Also, angle θ70 is larger than angle θ10 and smaller than angle θ20.

[0147] Furthermore, focusing on the shape of pixels PX7 (pixel electrode PE7) in region 40B, the shapes of adjacent pixels PX7 (pixel electrode PE7) in the second direction Y are all different.

[0148] In this embodiment as well, the same effects as in the first embodiment can be obtained. In this embodiment, even when the display device DSP further includes a light source unit LU2, light scattering in region 50A can be suppressed. As a result, light can be delivered to region 30A (the central part in the second direction Y of the display region DA). Consequently, brightness uniformity is improved, and a decrease in display quality can be suppressed.

[0149] [Third Embodiment] Figure 12 is a schematic plan view of the display device DSP according to this embodiment. In this embodiment, the plan view shapes of the display panel PNL and the cover member CM1 differ from those of the first embodiment.

[0150] As shown in Figure 12, the display panel PNL and cover member CM1 have a semicircular shape in plan view. The display area DA also has a semicircular shape, for example. The display area DA includes areas 10A, 20A, 30A, and areas 10B, 20B. These areas 10A, 20A, 30A, 10B, and 20B are configured in the same way as in the first embodiment.

[0151] In this embodiment as well, the same effects as in the first embodiment can be obtained. With this embodiment, even if the shape of the display panel PNL is not rectangular, the uniformity of brightness can be improved.

[0152] [Fourth Embodiment] Figure 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display device DSP according to this embodiment. Figure 14 is a schematic plan view of the display device DSP according to this embodiment. This embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it further includes a low refractive index layer LL. In this embodiment, the side surface E3a of the cover member CM1 corresponds to the first side surface.

[0153] The low-refractive-index layer LL is a transparent layer formed from an organic material, such as a siloxane-based resin. The refractive index of the low-refractive-index layer LL is lower than that of the cover member CM1. The refractive index of the cover member CM1 is approximately 1.5, while the refractive index of the low-refractive-index layer LL is approximately 1.4.

[0154] The low-refractive-index layer LL is positioned between the cover member CM1 and the display panel PNL, as shown in Figure 13. Specifically, the low-refractive-index layer LL is positioned on the main surface F5 of the cover member CM1. The low-refractive-index layer LL is positioned in the region of the main surface F5 that is close to the light source unit LU1. In the example shown in Figure 14, the low-refractive-index layer LL is positioned so as to overlap region 10A. In Figure 14, dots are marked on the region where the low-refractive-index layer LL is formed.

[0155] In this embodiment, the same effects as in the first embodiment can be obtained. In this embodiment, the display device DSP is equipped with a low refractive index layer LL. Now, the light emitted from the light-emitting element LS will be described.

[0156] Light L emitted from the light-emitting element LS is moderately diffused in the light guide LG and incident on the cover member CM1 from the side E3a. The light L incident on the cover member CM1 reaches the liquid crystal layer LC via the cover member CM1. As described above, the refractive index of the low-refractive-index layer LL is smaller than the refractive index of the cover member CM1.

[0157] Therefore, of the light L incident on the cover member CM1, the light L that travels from the cover member CM1 toward the low-refractive-index layer LL is reflected at the interface between the cover member CM1 and the low-refractive-index layer LL. Also, the light L that travels toward the main surface F6 is reflected at the interface between the main surface F6 and the air layer. In the region where the cover member CM1 and the low-refractive-index layer LL overlap, the light travels through the interior of the cover member CM1 while being repeatedly reflected.

[0158] Light L traveling towards the region where the cover member CM1 and the adhesive layer AD1 overlap passes through the cover member CM1 and enters the display panel PNL via the adhesive layer AD1. Since the refractive index of the adhesive layer AD1 is equivalent to that of the cover member CM1, the light is hardly reflected at the interface between the cover member CM1 and the adhesive layer AD1.

[0159] The region where the main surface F5 and the low-refractive-index layer LL overlap corresponds to a region where light incident on the cover member CM1 hardly enters the display panel PNL side. The region where the main surface F5 and the adhesive layer AD1 overlap corresponds to a region where light incident on the cover member CM1 can enter the display panel PNL side.

[0160] In this embodiment, in regions close to the light-emitting element LS, the incidence of light from the light-emitting element LS onto the display panel PNL is suppressed, while in regions further away from the light-emitting element LS, the incidence of light onto the display panel PNL is promoted. In other words, the low-refractive-index layer LL delays the light from the light-emitting element LS.

[0161] This suppresses light scattering on the light-receiving side and makes it easier for light to reach the light-receiving side, thereby improving brightness uniformity in the display area DA. As a result, it is possible to suppress a decrease in display quality in the display device DSP.

[0162] Furthermore, the low refractive index layer LL may be formed to overlap not only region 10A but also at least a portion of other regions (for example, region 10B, region 20A, etc.). In addition, the low refractive index layer LL in this embodiment can also be applied to the display device DSP according to the third embodiment.

[0163] [Fifth Embodiment] Figure 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display device DSP according to this embodiment. This embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that it further includes a low refractive index layer LL. In this embodiment, side E3a of the cover member CM1 corresponds to the first side, and side E3b corresponds to the second side.

[0164] The low-refractive-index layer LL is located on the main surface F5 of the cover member CM1. In the example shown in Figure 15, the low-refractive-index layer LL is positioned to overlap regions 10A and 50A. In other words, the low-refractive-index layer LL is located in the regions adjacent to the light source units LU1 and LU2, respectively. In Figure 15, dots are marked in the regions where the low-refractive-index layer LL is formed.

[0165] In this embodiment, the low-refractive-index layer LL causes light from the light source units LU1 and LU2 to be forwarded. This improves the brightness of the central part (region 30A) in the second direction Y of the display area DA, and suppresses the occurrence of brightness unevenness.

[0166] As a result, it becomes possible to suppress the deterioration of display quality in the display device DSP. Furthermore, the low refractive index layer LL may be formed to overlap not only regions 10A and 50A, but also at least a portion of other regions.

[0167] In addition to the configurations disclosed in the first to fifth embodiments described above, various other configurations can be applied to the bent portion. Figure 16 is a diagram illustrating another example of the bent portion 10.

[0168] In the example shown in Figure 16, the bent portion 10 is bent so as to be convex in the direction opposite to the second direction Y. In other words, the bent portion 10 is bent so as to be convex in the direction approaching the light source unit LU1. The shape of the bent portion 10 shown in Figure 16 can also be applied to scan lines in other regions.

[0169] Figures 17 and 18 illustrate yet another example of the bent portion 10. In the example shown in Figures 17 and 18, the intersection of portions 11 and 12 of the bent portion 10 is spaced apart from the center in the first direction X between adjacent signal lines S1 and S2.

[0170] Specifically, in Figure 17, the intersection of part 11 and part 12 is spaced apart from the center in the direction opposite to the first direction X, and in Figure 18, the intersection of part 11 and part 12 is spaced apart from the center in the first direction X. The distance from the center in the first direction X can be changed as appropriate. A single scan line G may be formed to have either the bent portion 10 shown in Figure 17 or the bent portion 10 shown in Figure 18, or it may be formed to have both the bent portions 10 shown in Figures 17 and 18.

[0171] 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. Within the scope of the idea of ​​the present invention, a person skilled in the art can conceive of various modifications, and these modifications are also understood to fall within the scope of the present invention. For example, any modifications made by a person skilled in the art to add, delete, or modify components, or to add, omit, or change the conditions of the above-described embodiments, are also included within the scope of the present invention insofar as they retain the gist of the present invention.

[0172] 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]

[0173] 10, 20, 40, 50, 60, 70... Bending section, 10A, 10B, 20A, 20B, 30A, 30B, 40A, 40B... Area, 11, 12, 21, 22, 30, 41, 51, 61, 71... Part, CM1... Cover member, DA... Display area, DSP... Display device, G... Scan line, LC... Liquid crystal layer, LL... Low refractive index layer, LS... Light-emitting element, LU1, LU2... Light source unit, PE... Pixel electrode, PNL... Display panel, PX... Pixel, S... Signal line, SUB1... First substrate, SUB2... Second substrate.

Claims

1. A display device having a liquid crystal layer containing polymer-dispersed liquid crystal, which can switch between a state in which light incident on the liquid crystal layer is transmitted and a state in which light is scattered, depending on the applied voltage, A display panel having a display area for displaying images, A first light source unit is provided, The aforementioned display panel is A first signal line and a second signal line are arranged at intervals in a first direction and extend in a second direction different from the first direction, It has a plurality of scan lines that extend in the first direction so as to intersect the first signal line and the second signal line, and are arranged at intervals in the second direction, The aforementioned display area is The first area and, It has a second region which is spaced further apart from the first light source unit in the second direction than the first region, The plurality of scan lines in the first region have a first portion that forms a first angle with respect to the first direction between the first signal line and the second signal line, The plurality of scan lines in the second region have a second portion that forms a second angle smaller than the first angle with respect to the first direction between the first signal line and the second signal line. Display device.

2. The shape of the pixels in the first region is different from the shape of the pixels in the second region. The display device according to claim 1.

3. The display area further has a third area between the first area and the second area in the first direction, The plurality of scan lines in the third region have a third portion that forms a third angle between the first signal line and the second signal line that is smaller than the first angle and larger than the second angle with respect to the first direction. The display device according to claim 1.

4. The shape of the pixels in the third region is different from the shape of the pixels in the first region and the shape of the pixels in the second region, respectively. The display device according to claim 3.

5. The aforementioned display area is Between the first region and the third region, there is a first inclined region having a first inclined portion in which two adjacent scan lines in the second direction are inclined at different angles with respect to the first direction, The device further includes a second changing region between the second region and the third region, having a second inclined portion in which two adjacent scan lines in the second direction are inclined at different angles with respect to the first direction. The display device according to claim 3.

6. The first angle is 45 degrees, The aforementioned second angle is 0 degrees, The aforementioned third angle is 30 degrees. The display device according to claim 4.

7. A transparent cover member is superimposed on the display panel and has a first side facing the first light source unit, The system further comprises a low refractive index layer disposed between the cover member and the display panel, having a refractive index smaller than that of the cover member, The low refractive index layer is superimposed on the first region. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The system further comprises a second light source unit located on the opposite side from the first light source unit, The display area further includes a fourth area that is closer to the second light source unit than the first and second areas, The scan line in the fourth region has a fourth portion that forms a fourth angle greater than the second angle with respect to the first direction between the first signal line and the second signal line. The display device according to claim 1.

9. The fourth angle is substantially equal to the first angle. The display device according to claim 8.

10. The shape of the pixels in the fourth region is the same as the shape of the pixels in the first region. The display device according to claim 8.

11. The aforementioned display area is In the second direction, a fifth region between the first region and the second region, In the second direction, it further comprises a sixth region between the second region and the fourth region, The scan line in the fifth region has a fifth portion between the first signal line and the second signal line that forms a fifth angle with respect to the first direction that is smaller than the first angle and larger than the second angle. The scan line in the sixth region has a sixth portion between the first signal line and the second signal line that forms a sixth angle with respect to the first direction that is smaller than the fourth angle and larger than the second angle. The display device according to claim 8.

12. The fourth angle is substantially equal to the first angle, The sixth angle is substantially equal to the fifth angle. The display device according to claim 11.

13. The first angle and the fourth angle are 45 degrees, The aforementioned second angle is 0 degrees, The fifth and sixth angles are 30 degrees. The display device according to claim 12.

14. The shape of the pixels in the fourth region is equal to the shape of the pixels in the first region. The shape of the pixels in the sixth region is equal to the shape of the pixels in the fifth region. The display device according to claim 11.

15. The aforementioned display area is Between the first region and the fifth region, there is a third inclined region having a third inclined portion in which two adjacent scan lines in the second direction are inclined at different angles with respect to the first direction, Between the second region and the fifth region, there is a fourth inclined region having a fourth inclined portion in which two adjacent scan lines in the second direction are inclined at different angles with respect to the first direction, Between the second region and the sixth region, there is a fifth inclined region having a fifth inclined portion in which two adjacent scan lines in the second direction are inclined at different angles with respect to the first direction, The fourth region and the sixth region further include a sixth inclined region having a sixth inclined portion in which two adjacent scan lines in the second direction are inclined at different angles with respect to the first direction. The display device according to claim 11.

16. A transparent cover member is superimposed on the display panel and has a first side facing the first light source unit and a second side facing the second light source unit, The system further comprises a low refractive index layer disposed between the cover member and the display panel, having a refractive index smaller than that of the cover member, The low refractive index layer is superimposed on the first region and the fourth region. The display device according to any one of claims 8 to 15.

17. The display panel has a rectangular shape that is elongated in the second direction when viewed from above. The display device according to claim 1 or 8.

18. The display panel has a semicircular shape in a plan view. The display device according to claim 1.

19. A display device having a liquid crystal layer containing polymer-dispersed liquid crystal, which can switch between a state in which light incident on the liquid crystal layer is transmitted and a state in which light is scattered, depending on the applied voltage, A display panel that displays images, It comprises a light source unit, The aforementioned display panel is A first signal line and a second signal line are arranged at intervals in a first direction and extend in a second direction different from the first direction, It has a first scan line and a second scan line that extend in the first direction so as to intersect the first signal line and the second signal line, and are spaced apart in the second direction, The first scan line has a first bend that bends between the first signal line and the second signal line. The second scan line has a second bend that bends between the first signal line and the second signal line at an angle different from the bending angle of the first bend. Display device.

20. The first bent portion is bent at a position further from the light source unit than the intersection point of the first signal line and the second signal line and the first scan line. The second bent portion is bent at a position further from the light source unit than the intersection point of the first signal line and the second signal line and the second scan line. The display device according to claim 19.

21. The second scanning line is spaced further away from the light source unit than the first scanning line. The angle of the second bend is greater than the angle of the first bend. The display device according to claim 20.

22. The first and second bent portions are located approximately in the center between the first and second signal lines, and are furthest from the light source unit. The display device according to any one of claims 19 to 21.

Images