Zigzag Rubbed Alignment Layer for LCD Viewing Angle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Liquid crystal display devices with single domain alignment layers suffer from limited viewing angles due to refractive index anisotropy, requiring complex methods to create multiple domains which can affect display characteristics like brightness.
Innovation Solution
A zigzag-shaped rubbed pattern is applied to the alignment layer, allowing liquid crystals to be aligned in different directions, forming multiple domains and improving viewing angles without complex processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a single domain alignment layer is used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the viewing angle is limited due to refractive index anisotropy
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment layer is divided into multiple domains with different alignment directions. Each domain has a specific rubbing direction (e.g., first direction and second direction at different angles), segmenting the uniform alignment into multiple oriented regions to widen the viewing angle while maintaining manufacturing simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the alignment layer are given different local alignment properties through selective rubbing directions. The first and second alignment layers have different rubbing directions, creating local quality variations that enable multi-domain liquid crystal alignment and improved viewing angle characteristics
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex methods are used to create multiple domains, then the viewing angle is widened, but the device complexity and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The domain formation is achieved by segmenting the rubbing process into two sequential steps with different directions, rather than using complex electrode patterns or protrusion structures. This segmentation approach creates multiple domains through simple directional control
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the rubbing direction parameter (angle) between the first and second alignment layers to create multiple domains. By adjusting the rubbing direction angle, different domain configurations can be achieved without adding structural complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex methods are used to create multiple domains, then the viewing angle is widened, but the display characteristics such as brightness are affected
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment layers are given different local rubbing directions (first and second directions) to create multiple domains. This local quality differentiation allows light to be controlled in multiple directions, widening the viewing angle while maintaining brightness through proper optical compensation
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
The zigzag pattern enhances the viewing angle of liquid crystal display devices by aligning liquid crystals in various directions, improving display characteristics while simplifying the manufacturing process.
Implementation Method 1
the rubbing is to treat the alignment layer by rubbing or abrading a surface of the alignment layer in a desired direction using a rubbing member
Data Source
AI summary
An alignment layer for a display device may include a plurality of rubbed patterns formed on its surface, wherein each of the rubbed patterns includes a first pattern intersecting a center axis at a first angle, and a second pattern connected to the first pattern and intersecting the center axis at a second angle, and the first pattern and the second pattern are alternately repeated. A liquid crystal display device includes the alignment layer, and a method and apparatus for treating the alignment layer are provided.