Offset Non-Etched Regions in Liquid Crystal Panel Etching
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for manufacturing liquid crystal panels often result in edge damage during bending due to uneven thickness after etching, as the non-etched regions on one substrate are not properly aligned with those on the other substrate, leading to instability and potential breakage.
Innovation Solution
A liquid crystal panel design where non-etched regions on the first and second substrates are offset, with different etching methods applied to achieve a stable thickness distribution, including primary and secondary etching, and the use of masking and encapsulation to prevent etching solution infiltration, allowing for a small radius of curvature without edge damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If etching is performed on the liquid crystal panel to reduce thickness for bending, then the panel can achieve curved shape, but the edge of the panel becomes damaged during bending due to thickness mismatch between etched and non-etched regions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different etching treatments to different regions of the substrate. Specifically, the edge region undergoes etching to reduce thickness, while the non-etched region maintains original thickness. This creates a thickness gradient that allows the etched edge to flex during bending without causing damage, resolving the contradiction between achieving curved shape and preventing edge damage
Solution Approach 2:
The substrate is divided into distinct regions with different thickness characteristics: an etched region with reduced thickness and a non-etched region with original thickness. This segmentation allows each region to serve different functions during bending - the etched region provides flexibility while the non-etched region maintains structural integrity
2Reliability
If masking process is performed to protect the edge from etching solution, then the edge is protected from damage, but the etching process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent forms a protrusion structure on the substrate before the etching process. This protrusion serves as a built-in mask that prevents the etching solution from reaching the edge region. By preparing this protective structure in advance, the patent eliminates the need for separate masking steps, thus protecting the edge while simplifying the overall process
3Adaptability or versatility
If the liquid crystal panel is thinned through etching to enable bending, then curved display is achieved, but the structural integrity is reduced making the panel more susceptible to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a thickness gradient across the substrate by selectively etching only the edge region while leaving the non-etched region at full thickness. This local differentiation allows the panel to bend in the etched region while the thicker non-etched region maintains structural integrity and prevents overall panel damage
Solution Approach 2:
The substrate structure becomes a composite of etched and non-etched regions with different mechanical properties. The etched region provides flexibility for bending, while the non-etched region provides strength and structural support, creating a composite structure that achieves both adaptability and integrity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables a stably bendable liquid crystal panel with reduced thickness, improving formability and preventing edge damage, allowing for easier implementation of curved displays with enhanced structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
an etching solution is sprayed onto the liquid crystal panel to thin the liquid crystal panel to a set thickness
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a liquid crystal panel and an etching method for a liquid crystal panel. The liquid crystal panel includes: a first substrate; and a second substrate installed spaced apart from the first substrate with a liquid crystal layer interposed therebetween, in which a non-etched region of the first substrate and a non-etched region of the second substrate are positioned to be offset from each other.