Reflective LCD Alignment Layer Azimuthal Anchoring Energy Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional horizontal electric field mode liquid crystal display devices have lower reflectance compared to vertical electric field mode devices due to insufficient modulation width of the liquid crystal layer's retardation, which affects their display performance.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a liquid crystal display device with a first and second alignment layer having specific azimuthal anchoring energy values, where at least one layer has an anchoring energy value less than 1×10−4 J/m2, and a liquid crystal layer with controlled retardation, allows for increased modulation width and improved reflectance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If horizontal electric field mode liquid crystal display device is used, then device complexity is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but reflectance is insufficient compared to vertical electric field mode devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by precisely controlling the azimuthal anchoring energy of alignment layers and the in-plane retardation of the liquid crystal layer. By setting the azimuthal anchoring energy to less than 1×10^-4 J/m² and the in-plane retardation to 130-145 nm, the liquid crystal molecules achieve optimal alignment that maximizes reflectance modulation while maintaining horizontal electric field mode simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by creating different anchoring energy conditions at different interfaces. The first alignment layer has azimuthal anchoring energy less than 1×10^-4 J/m² while the second alignment layer has azimuthal anchoring energy of 1×10^-4 J/m² or more. This local differentiation optimizes liquid crystal alignment specifically at the reflective interface to enhance reflectance.
2Device complexity
If conventional alignment layers are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but modulation width of liquid crystal layer's retardation is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the alignment layers by controlling their azimuthal anchoring energy values. This parameter control enables the liquid crystal layer to achieve sufficient modulation width of in-plane retardation (130-145 nm) which is critical for high reflectance, while maintaining the overall device structure of horizontal electric field mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamics by enabling the liquid crystal molecules to dynamically adjust their alignment state in response to applied voltage. The weak anchoring condition allows the liquid crystal molecules to rotate and change orientation more effectively, achieving dynamic modulation of retardation that enhances reflectance control.
3Loss of time
If liquid crystal layer thickness is reduced, then response time is improved, but reflectance may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the optical parameters of the liquid crystal layer by precisely controlling its in-plane retardation to 130-145 nm. This retardation value is optimized to achieve high reflectance while allowing for reduced cell thickness, which in turn improves response time. The specific retardation range ensures optimal balance between optical performance and response speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by optimizing the liquid crystal layer properties specifically in the reflective region. By controlling the in-plane retardation and anchoring energy at the interfaces, the patent ensures that the liquid crystal layer provides sufficient reflectance modulation even with reduced thickness, thereby improving response time without sacrificing reflectance performance.
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 configuration enhances the reflectance of horizontal electric field mode liquid crystal display devices to levels comparable to vertical electric field mode devices, while also reducing the optimum cell thickness and response time.
Implementation Method 1
at least one alignment layer of the first alignment layer or the second alignment layer has an azimuthal anchoring energy value of less than 1×10−4 J/m2
Implementation Method 2
voltage is applied to liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer to change the alignment state of liquid crystal molecules, and thereby the amount of light transmitted is controlled
Implementation Method 3
the alignment of liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer being controlled by an electric field in a horizontal direction
Implementation Method 4
displays an image by reflecting light entered from outside with the reflective layer and transmitting the reflected light through a liquid crystal layer
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a horizontal electric field mode reflective or transflective liquid crystal display device that achieves an increased reflectance. The liquid crystal display device sequentially includes: a first substrate; a first alignment layer; a liquid crystal layer containing liquid crystal molecules horizontally aligned with no voltage applied; a second alignment layer; and a second substrate including a pixel electrode and a common electrode, the liquid crystal display device further including a reflective layer disposed in at least part of a pixel at a position closer to a back surface than the first alignment layer, the liquid crystal layer, the second alignment layer, the pixel electrode, and the common electrode, at least one alignment layer of the first alignment layer or the second alignment layer having an azimuthal anchoring energy value of less than 1×10−4 J/m2.