KR102794949B1 - Light route control member and display having the same - Google Patents

Abstract

An optical path control member according to an embodiment comprises: a first substrate; a first electrode disposed on the first substrate; a second substrate disposed on the first substrate; a second electrode disposed under the second substrate; a light conversion unit disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode; and an adhesive layer disposed between the light conversion unit and the second electrode, wherein the light conversion unit comprises a plurality of partition walls, a plurality of receiving units, and a base, and a light conversion material is disposed in the receiving units, and a first sealing unit in contact with one end and the other end of the light conversion unit, wherein the first sealing unit is formed integrally with the adhesive layer.

Description

{LIGHT ROUTE CONTROL MEMBER AND DISPLAY HAVING THE SAME}

The present invention relates to an optical path control element and a display device including the same.

A shade film blocks the transmission of light from a light source and is attached to the front of a display panel, which is a display device used in mobile phones, laptops, tablet PCs, car navigation systems, car touchscreens, etc., to adjust the viewing angle of the light according to the angle of incidence of the light when the display transmits the screen, so that the user can express clear picture quality at the viewing angle they need.

Additionally, shade films can be used on windows of vehicles or buildings to block some of the outside light to prevent glare or to prevent the inside from being visible from the outside.

That is, the shading film may be a light path control member that controls the path of light movement, thereby blocking light in a specific direction and transmitting light in a specific direction. Accordingly, the angle of light transmission can be controlled by the shading film, thereby controlling the user's viewing angle.

Meanwhile, these shade films can be divided into shade films that can always control the viewing angle regardless of the surrounding environment or the user's environment, and switchable shade films that can turn the viewing angle control on and off by the user depending on the surrounding environment or the user's environment.

These switchable shading films can be implemented by filling a light conversion material including particles that can move according to the application of voltage inside a receptacle and a dispersion liquid that disperses the particles, so that the receptacle can be changed into a light transmitting portion and a light blocking portion by dispersion and coagulation of the particles.

The light conversion material can be injected from the injection port toward the outlet port through a capillary method with one end of the receptacle as the injection port and the other end as the outlet port. Then, the injection port and the outlet port can be sealed with a sealing portion to seal the light conversion material inside the receptacle.

At this time, if the sealing portion is removed, the light conversion material may leak out, which may deteriorate the reliability and operating characteristics of the light path control member.

Therefore, a new optical path control element having a structure capable of solving the above problems is required.

The invention seeks to provide an optical path control element which is easily manufactured and has improved reliability and driving characteristics.

An optical path control member according to an embodiment comprises: a first substrate; a first electrode disposed on the first substrate; a second substrate disposed on the first substrate; a second electrode disposed under the second substrate; a light conversion unit disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode; and an adhesive layer disposed between the light conversion unit and the second electrode, wherein the light conversion unit comprises a plurality of partition walls, a plurality of receiving units, and a base, and a light conversion material is disposed in the receiving units, and a first sealing unit in contact with one end and the other end of the light conversion unit, wherein the first sealing unit is formed integrally with the adhesive layer.

The optical path control member according to the embodiment may include a sealing member formed integrally with the adhesive layer. Accordingly, a process of placing a separate sealing material and curing it, etc. may be omitted, thereby improving process efficiency.

In addition, the sealing portion may include the same material as the adhesive layer, and the sealing portions arranged inside the receptacle may be connected to one adhesive layer. Accordingly, the adhesive properties of the sealing portion may be improved, and thus the sealing portion may be prevented from being delaminated, thereby improving the reliability of the optical path control member.

In addition, since the adhesive layer is arranged while being folded, the substrate area in direct contact with the adhesive layer can also be arranged while being folded.

Accordingly, the end of the second substrate can be formed to be curved, thereby improving the design freedom of the optical path control member.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an optical path control member according to an embodiment.
Figures 2 and 3 are drawings showing cross-sectional views taken along area AA' of Figure 1.
Figure 4 is a drawing showing a cross-sectional view taken along the BB' area of Figure 1.
Figure 5 is a drawing showing a cross-sectional view taken along the CC' region of Figure 1.
Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the AA' area of Fig. 1, and Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along the BB' area of Fig. 1, and these are drawings for explaining the thickness of the adhesive layer.
Figure 8 is a drawing showing another cross-sectional view taken along area AA' of Figure 1.
FIGS. 9 to 12 are drawings for explaining a process for forming a sealing portion of an optical path control member according to an embodiment.
FIGS. 13 and 14 are cross-sectional views of a display device to which an optical path control member according to an embodiment is applied.
FIGS. 15 to 17 are drawings for explaining one embodiment of a display device to which an optical path control member according to an embodiment is applied.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. However, the technical idea of the present invention is not limited to some of the embodiments described, but may be implemented in various different forms, and within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention, one or more of the components among the embodiments may be selectively combined or substituted for use.

In addition, terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the embodiments of the present invention can be interpreted as having a meaning that can be generally understood by a person of ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs, unless explicitly and specifically defined and described, and terms that are commonly used, such as terms defined in a dictionary, can be interpreted in consideration of the contextual meaning of the relevant technology.

In addition, the terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are for the purpose of describing the embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. In this specification, the singular may also include the plural unless specifically stated in the phrase, and when it is described as “A and (or) at least one (or more) of B, C,” it may include one or more of all combinations that can be combined with A, B, C.

In addition, in describing components of embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used. These terms are only intended to distinguish the components from other components, and are not intended to limit the nature, order, or sequence of the components.

In addition, when a component is described as being 'connected', 'coupled' or 'connected' to another component, it may include not only cases where the component is directly connected, coupled or connected to the other component, but also cases where the component is 'connected', 'coupled' or 'connected' by another component between the component and the other component.

Additionally, when it is described as being formed or arranged "above or below" each component, above or below includes not only cases where the two components are in direct contact with each other, but also cases where one or more other components are formed or arranged between the two components.

Also, when expressed as “upper or lower,” it can include the meaning of not only the upward direction but also the downward direction based on one component.

Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, an optical path control member according to an embodiment will be described. The optical path control member described below is a switchable optical path control member that operates in various modes depending on electrophoretic particles moving by application of voltage.

Referring to FIG. 1, the optical path control member according to the embodiment may include a first substrate (110), a second substrate (120), a first electrode (210), a second electrode (220), and a light conversion unit (300).

The above light conversion unit (300) may be placed between the first substrate (110) and the second substrate (120). In detail, the light conversion unit (300) may be placed between the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220).

A buffer layer (410) may be placed between the light conversion unit (300) and the first electrode (210). In addition, the buffer layer (410) may improve the adhesion between the first electrode (210), which is a heterogeneous material, and the light conversion unit (300).

An adhesive layer (420) may be placed between the light conversion unit (300) and the second electrode (220). Accordingly, the light conversion unit and the second electrode (220) may be adhered to each other.

The above light conversion unit (300) may include a plurality of partition walls (310) and a plurality of receiving units (320). A light conversion material is placed in the receiving units (320), and the light transmittance of the light conversion material may be changed by a voltage applied from the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220).

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the light conversion material (330) may include a dispersion (330a) and light conversion particles (330b) dispersed and arranged in the dispersion (330a). The surface of the light conversion particles (330b) is charged so as to have a charge, and accordingly, the light conversion particles (330b) may be moved by a positive voltage or a negative voltage applied from the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220).

For example, referring to FIG. 2, when no voltage is applied, the light conversion particles (330b) are uniformly dispersed and arranged within the dispersion (330a), and accordingly, the receiving portion (320) can be driven as a light blocking portion.

In addition, referring to FIG. 3, when voltage is applied through the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220), the light conversion particle (330b) moves toward the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220), and accordingly, the receiving portion (320) can be driven as a light transmitting portion.

Meanwhile, since the light conversion material placed inside the receiving portion (330a) has viscosity, it can move in one direction according to the movement of the light path control member. In addition, if external moisture or impurities penetrate into the light conversion material, the characteristics of the light conversion material may deteriorate.

Additionally, external impurities may penetrate into the interior of the optical path control member through the outer surface of the optical path control member.

Accordingly, in order to prevent movement of the light conversion material (300) and to prevent penetration of external impurities, a sealing portion may be placed on one end and the other end of the receiving portion and the outer surface of the light path control member.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the B-B' section of FIG. 1, which is a cross-sectional view taken along one end of the receiving portion, and FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the C-C' section of FIG. 1, which is a cross-sectional view taken along the extension direction of the receiving portion.

Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, a first sealing portion (510) may be arranged in each receiving portion (320). The first sealing portion (510) may be arranged at one end and the other end of the receiving portion (320), respectively.

Accordingly, the first sealing portion (510) can be in contact with one end and the other end of the light conversion portion (300). That is, the first sealing portion (510) is arranged in contact with one end and the other end of the light conversion material (330), and accordingly, the light conversion material (330) can be sealed. That is, the first sealing portion (510) can be a sealing portion that seals the light conversion material (330).

The first sealing portion (510) may include the same material as the adhesive layer (420). In detail, the first sealing portion (510) and the adhesive layer (420) may be formed integrally. In detail, the first sealing portion (510) may be formed by partially melting the adhesive layer (420) disposed on the first sealing portion (510). Accordingly, the first sealing portions (510) disposed in each of the receiving portions may be connected to each other through the adhesive layer (420).

Referring to FIG. 4, the adhesive layer (420) on the area corresponding to the first sealing portion (510) may have different thicknesses depending on the location. That is, the adhesive layer (420) on the first sealing portion (510) may have different thicknesses depending on the location.

In detail, the adhesive layer (420) disposed on the light conversion unit (300) may include an area corresponding to the partition wall unit (310) and an area corresponding to the receiving unit (320).

At this time, the adhesive layer thickness (T1) of the area corresponding to the partition wall portion (310) and the adhesive layer thickness (T2) of the area corresponding to the receiving portion (320) may be different from each other. In detail, the adhesive layer thickness (T1) of the area corresponding to the partition wall portion may be greater than the adhesive layer thickness (T2) of the area corresponding to the receiving portion (320).

That is, the first sealing portion (510) is formed by melting the adhesive layer (420), and as the adhesive layer (420) disposed on the area corresponding to the receiving portion (320) flows into the receiving portion, the thickness (T1) of the adhesive layer in the area corresponding to the receiving portion (320) can become smaller than the thickness of the adhesive layer before melting.

Referring to FIG. 5, the adhesive layer (420) may have a thickness that changes as it extends from the central region to the outer region of the receiving portion (320).

In detail, since the adhesive layer (420) disposed at one end and the other end of the receiving portion (320) is disposed while melting and filling the interior of the receiving portion (320), the thickness of the adhesive layer corresponding to the outer area of the receiving portion can be gradually reduced.

That is, the thickness of the adhesive layer (420) can be reduced while extending to the end region of the receiving portion. That is, the thickness of the adhesive layer (420) can be reduced while extending toward the first sealing portion (510).

In detail, the adhesive layer (420) may be folded into the receiving portion (320) while extending in one direction. That is, since the adhesive layer (420) of the area adjacent to the receiving portion (320) flows into the receiving portion (320), the adhesive layer (420) of the area adjacent to the receiving portion (320) may have a thickness that is reduced compared to the adhesive layers (420) of other areas. Accordingly, the adhesive layer (420) may have a thickness that is reduced while extending in the direction of the first sealing portion (510).

Additionally, the adhesive layer (420) and the sealing portion (510) may come into contact with different configurations.

In detail, the first sealing portion (510) can be in direct contact with the second substrate (120), and the adhesive layer (420) can be in direct contact with the second electrode (220).

Additionally, the first sealing portion (510) can be in direct contact with the buffer layer (410), and the adhesive layer (420) can be in direct contact with the second electrode (220).

Accordingly, in the area where the first sealing portion (510) is arranged, the first sealing portion (510) including the same material and the second substrate (120) including the resin material are arranged in a structure in which they are adhered to each other. Accordingly, since the area is formed in which a similar or similar material of a similar resin series, rather than a different material, is arranged, the adhesive strength of the first sealing portion (510) can be improved.

Additionally, referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the thickness of the adhesive layer (420) may vary from region to region.

In detail, the adhesive layer (420) can be defined into two regions according to the distance from the first sealing portion (510). In detail, FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a region where the adhesive layer (420) is far from the first sealing portion (510), and FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a region where the adhesive layer (420) is relatively close to the first sealing portion (510).

That is, FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the central region of the adhesive layer (420), and FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the region where the adhesive layer (420) and the first sealing portion (510) are adjacent.

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the adhesive layer (420) may have a thickness (T3) of the adhesive layer in an area far from the first sealing portion (510) that is greater than the adhesive layer thickness (T4) of an area close to the first sealing portion (510). That is, the adhesive layer (420) may have a thickness of the central area of the adhesive layer (420) that is greater than the adhesive layer thickness of an area close to the first sealing portion (510).

That is, the adhesive layer (420) can change in thickness while extending in the direction of the first sealing portion (510). That is, since the adhesive layer (420) is bent in the direction of the first sealing portion (510), the adhesive layer (420) can decrease in thickness while extending in the direction of the first sealing portion (510).

Figure 8 is a drawing showing another cross-sectional view taken along the A-A' section of Figure 1.

Referring to FIG. 8, the adhesive layer (420) may be arranged to surround a side surface of the light path control member. For example, the light path control member includes a first direction that is longitudinal and a second direction that is unidirectional, and the adhesive layer (420) may be arranged to surround at least one of the side surface in the first direction and the side surface in the second direction.

For example, referring to FIG. 8, the adhesive layer (420) may be arranged to surround the side surface in the second direction. In detail, the adhesive layer (420) may be arranged to contact the side surface of at least one of the light conversion unit (300), the buffer layer (410), the first electrode (210), and the first substrate (110).

Accordingly, a second sealing portion (520) that seals the outer surface of the light conversion portion (300) by the adhesive layer (420) can be formed on the outer surface of the light path control member.

That is, a second sealing portion (520) that seals the side of the light path control member by the adhesive layer (420) can be formed on the outer surface of the light path control member. In addition, a second sealing portion (520) that seals the light conversion member (300) by the adhesive layer (420) can be formed.

That is, since the adhesive layer (420) is arranged to surround the side surface of the light path control member and the second sealing portion (520) is arranged, the inflow of external impurities that may penetrate in the side surface direction of the light path control member can be prevented.

Additionally, the adhesive layer (420) and the second sealing portion (520) may come into contact with different configurations.

In detail, the second sealing portion (520) can be in direct contact with the second substrate (120), and the adhesive layer (420) can be in direct contact with the second electrode (220).

Meanwhile, the second sealing portion (520) may include a bending area (CA), that is, the sealing portion (520) may be formed such that a portion of the adhesive layer (420) material is melted and extends downward along the side of the light path control member, thereby forming a bending area.

Additionally, the second substrate (120) may also be folded. In detail, at least one of one end and the other end of the second substrate (120) may be folded.

That is, the second sealing portion (520) and the second substrate (120) are placed in direct contact, and since the second sealing portion (520) is bent, the second substrate (120) in contact with the second sealing portion (520) can also be bent in the same direction.

Accordingly, the second substrate (120) can be formed into a structure in which the central region is flat and the end region is curved.

Therefore, the design freedom of the optical path control member can be improved, and a curved optical path control member can be implemented.

Figures 9 to 12 are drawings for explaining the process of forming the sealing portion.

Referring to FIG. 9, a laser can be irradiated toward the second substrate (120). In detail, a laser having a specific wavelength range can be irradiated from the second substrate (120) toward the first substrate (110).

In detail, an infrared laser having a wavelength range that reacts with the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) can be irradiated from the second substrate (120) toward the first substrate (110).

The above substrate, electrodes and light converter comprise different materials. Additionally, each material reacts to different infrared laser wavelengths.

Accordingly, referring to FIG. 10, in the laser wavelength range, the second electrode (220) reacts and the second electrode (220) of the portion irradiated with the laser can be removed.

Referring to FIG. 11, a laser having a specific wavelength range can be irradiated again from the second substrate (120) toward the first substrate (110). In detail, a diode laser can be irradiated from the second substrate (120) toward the first substrate (110).

Accordingly, the adhesive layer (420) between the second substrate (120) and the light conversion unit (300) can be dissolved.

Referring to FIG. 12, the molten adhesive layer (420) can flow toward the first substrate (110) and fill the interior of the receiving portion (320). Accordingly, a first sealing portion (510) formed by the adhesive layer (420) can be arranged at the end of the receiving portion (320).

That is, the adhesive layer (420) that was placed in contact with the bulkhead (310) is melted by the laser and placed to fill the inside of the receiving portion (320), and thus, the first sealing portion (510) can be formed.

The optical path control member according to the embodiment may include a sealing member formed integrally with the adhesive layer. Accordingly, a process of placing a separate sealing material and curing it, etc. may be omitted, thereby improving process efficiency.

In addition, the sealing portion may include the same material as the adhesive layer, and the sealing portions arranged inside the receptacle may be connected to one adhesive layer. Accordingly, the adhesive properties of the sealing portion may be improved, and thus the sealing portion may be prevented from being delaminated, thereby improving the reliability of the optical path control member.

In addition, since the adhesive layer is arranged while being folded, the substrate area in direct contact with the adhesive layer can also be arranged while being folded.

Accordingly, the end of the second substrate can be formed to be curved, thereby improving the design freedom of the optical path control member.

Hereinafter, other configurations of the optical path control member according to the embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3.

The first substrate (110) can support the first electrode (210). The first substrate (110) can be rigid or flexible.

Additionally, the first substrate (110) may be transparent. For example, the first substrate (110) may include a transparent substrate that can transmit light.

The above first substrate (110) may include glass, plastic, or a flexible polymer film. For example, the flexible polymer film may be made of any one of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyether sulfone (PES), cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), triacetylcellulose (TAC) film, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film, polyimide (PI) film, and polystyrene (PS), but this is only one example and is not necessarily limited thereto.

Additionally, the first substrate (110) may be a flexible substrate having flexible characteristics.

In addition, the first substrate (110) may be a curved or bent substrate. That is, the optical path control member including the first substrate (110) may also be formed to have flexible, curved or bent characteristics. Accordingly, the optical path control member according to the embodiment may be changed into various designs.

The above first substrate (110) can extend in a first direction (1D), a second direction (2D), and a third direction (3D).

In detail, the first substrate (110) may include a first direction (1D) extending in a direction different from the first direction (1D) corresponding to the length or width direction of the first substrate (110), a second direction (2D) extending in a direction different from the length or width direction of the first substrate (110), and a third direction (3D) extending in a direction different from the first direction (1D) and the second direction (2D) and corresponding to the thickness direction of the first substrate (110).

For example, the first direction (1D) may be defined in the longitudinal direction of the first substrate (110), the second direction (2D) may be defined in the width direction of the first substrate (110) perpendicular to the first direction (1D), and the third direction (3D) may be defined in the thickness direction of the first substrate (110). Alternatively, the first direction (1D) may be defined in the width direction of the first substrate (110), the second direction (2D) may be defined in the longitudinal direction of the first substrate (110) perpendicular to the first direction (1D), and the third direction (3D) may be defined in the thickness direction of the first substrate (110).

Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the first direction (1D) is described as the length direction of the first substrate (110), the second direction (2D) is described as the width direction of the first substrate (110), and the third direction (3D) is described as the thickness direction of the first substrate (110).

The first electrode (210) may be disposed on one surface of the first substrate (110). In detail, the first electrode (210) may be disposed on the upper surface of the first substrate (110). That is, the first electrode (210) may be disposed between the first substrate (110) and the second substrate (120).

The first electrode (210) may include a transparent conductive material. For example, the first electrode (210) may include a conductive material having a light transmittance of about 80% or more. For example, the first electrode (210) may include a metal oxide such as indium tin oxide, indium zinc oxide, copper oxide, tin oxide, zinc oxide, or titanium oxide.

The above first electrode (210) may have a thickness of about 10 nm to about 300 nm.

Alternatively, the first electrode (210) may include various metals to implement low resistance. For example, the first electrode (210) may include at least one metal among chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), silver (Ag), molybdenum (Mo), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), and alloys thereof.

The first electrode (210) may be arranged on the entire surface of one side of the first substrate (110). In detail, the first electrode (210) may be arranged as a surface electrode on one side of the first substrate (110). However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the first electrode (210) may be formed as a plurality of pattern electrodes having a predetermined pattern, such as a mesh or stripe shape.

For example, the first electrode (210) may include a plurality of conductive patterns. In detail, the first electrode (210) may include a plurality of mesh lines intersecting each other and a plurality of mesh openings formed by the mesh lines.

Accordingly, even if the first electrode (210) includes metal, the first electrode is not visible from the outside, so that visibility can be improved. In addition, since the light transmittance is increased by the openings, the brightness of the light path control member according to the embodiment can be improved.

The second substrate (120) may be placed on the first substrate (110). In detail, the second substrate (120) may be placed on the first electrode (210) on the first substrate (110).

The second substrate (120) may include a material that can transmit light. The second substrate (120) may include a transparent material. The second substrate (120) may include a material that is the same as or similar to the first substrate (110) described above.

For example, the second substrate (120) may include glass, plastic, or a flexible polymer film. For example, the flexible polymer film may be made of any one of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyether sulfone (PES), cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), triacetylcellulose (TAC) film, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film, polyimide (PI) film, and polystyrene (PS), but this is only one example and is not necessarily limited thereto.

Additionally, the second substrate (120) may be a flexible substrate having flexible properties.

In addition, the second substrate (120) may be a curved or bent substrate. That is, the optical path control member including the second substrate (120) may also be formed to have flexible, curved or bent characteristics. Accordingly, the optical path control member according to the embodiment may be changed into various designs.

The above second substrate (120) can also extend in the first direction (1D), the second direction (2D), and the third direction (3D) in the same manner as the above first substrate (110) described above.

In detail, the second substrate (120) may include a first direction (1D) corresponding to the length or width direction of the second substrate (120), a second direction (2D) extending in a direction different from the first direction (1D) and corresponding to the length or width direction of the second substrate (120), and a third direction (3D) extending in a direction different from the first direction (1D) and the second direction (2D) and corresponding to the thickness direction of the second substrate (120).

For example, the first direction (1D) may be defined in the longitudinal direction of the second substrate (120), the second direction (2D) may be defined in the width direction of the second substrate (120) perpendicular to the first direction (1D), and the third direction (3D) may be defined in the thickness direction of the second substrate (120).

Alternatively, the first direction (1D) may be defined in the width direction of the second substrate (120), the second direction (2D) may be defined in the length direction of the second substrate (120) perpendicular to the first direction (1D), and the third direction (3D) may be defined in the thickness direction of the second substrate (120).

Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the first direction (1D) is described as the length direction of the second substrate (120), the second direction (2D) is described as the width direction of the second substrate (120), and the third direction (3D) is described as the thickness direction of the second substrate (120).

The second electrode (220) may be disposed on one surface of the second substrate (120). In detail, the second electrode (220) may be disposed on the lower surface of the second substrate (120). That is, the second electrode (220) may be disposed on a surface of the second substrate (120) where the second substrate (120) and the first substrate (110) face each other. That is, the second electrode (220) may be disposed to face the first electrode (210) on the first substrate (110). That is, the second electrode (220) may be disposed between the first electrode (210) and the second substrate (120).

The second electrode (220) may include a material identical to or similar to the first electrode (210) described above.

The second electrode (220) may include a transparent conductive material. For example, the second electrode (220) may include a conductive material having a light transmittance of about 80% or more. For example, the second electrode (220) may include a metal oxide such as indium tin oxide, indium zinc oxide, copper oxide, tin oxide, zinc oxide, or titanium oxide.

The second electrode (220) may have a thickness of about 10 nm to about 300 nm.

Alternatively, the second electrode (220) may include various metals to implement low resistance. For example, the second electrode (220) may include at least one metal among chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), silver (Ag), molybdenum (Mo), gold (Au), titanium (Ti), and alloys thereof.

The second electrode (220) may be arranged on the entire surface of one side of the second substrate (120). However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the second electrode (220) may be formed as a plurality of pattern electrodes having a certain pattern, such as a mesh or stripe shape.

For example, the second electrode (220) may include a plurality of conductive patterns. In detail, the second electrode (220) may include a plurality of mesh lines intersecting each other and a plurality of mesh openings formed by the mesh lines.

Accordingly, even if the second electrode (220) includes metal, the second electrode is not visible from the outside, so that visibility can be improved. In addition, since the light transmittance is increased by the openings, the brightness of the light path control member according to the embodiment can be improved.

The first substrate (110) and the second substrate (120) may include protrusions. The first substrate (110) may include a first protrusion, and the second substrate (120) may include a second protrusion. In detail, the first substrate (110) and the second substrate (120) may include a first protrusion and a second protrusion that are arranged misaligned from each other, respectively.

A connection area connected to an external printed circuit board or flexible printed circuit board can be formed in each of the first protrusion of the first substrate (110) and the second protrusion of the second substrate.

In detail, a first connection area (CA1) may be arranged on the first protrusion, and a second connection area (CA2) may be arranged on the second protrusion. When the first protrusion and the second protrusion are arranged at positions that are misaligned with each other, the first connection area (CA1) and the second connection area (CA2) may be arranged so as not to overlap in the third direction (3D).

The first connection area (CA1) and the second connection area (CA2) may be arranged on the same surface. Alternatively, the first connection area (CA1) and the second connection area (CA2) may be arranged on different surfaces.

When the first connection area (CA1) and the second connection area (CA2) are arranged on the same surface, when connecting the first connection area (CA1) and the second connection area (CA2) to a printed circuit board or a flexible printed circuit board, they can be connected on the same surface, so they can be easily connected.

A conductive material may be exposed on the upper surfaces of the first connection area (CA1) and the second connection area (CA2), respectively. Through the first connection area (CA1) and the second connection area (CA2), the light path control member may be electrically connected to an external printed circuit board or a flexible printed circuit board.

For example, a pad portion may be placed on the first connection area (CA1) and the second connection area (CA2), and a conductive adhesive including at least one of an anisotropic conductive film (ACF) and an anisotropic conductive paste (ACP) may be placed between the pad portion and the printed circuit board or the flexible printed circuit board to form a connection.

Alternatively, a conductive adhesive including at least one of an anisotropic conductive film (ACF) and an anisotropic conductive paste (ACP) may be placed between the first connection area (CA1) and the second connection area (CA2) and the printed circuit board or the flexible printed circuit board to enable direct connection without a pad bond.

The above light conversion unit (300) may include a partition wall unit (310) and a receiving unit (320).

The above-mentioned partition wall portion (310) can be defined as a partition wall region that partitions a receiving portion. That is, the above-mentioned partition wall portion (310) is a partition wall region that partitions a plurality of receiving portions and can transmit light. That is, light emitted from the direction of the first substrate (110) or the second substrate (120) can transmit through the above-mentioned partition wall portion.

The receiving portion (320) may be formed by partially penetrating the light conversion portion (300). Accordingly, the receiving portion (320) may be arranged in contact with the adhesive layer (410) and spaced apart from the buffer layer (420). Accordingly, a base portion (350) may be formed between the receiving portion (320) and the buffer layer (420).

The above base portion (350) may be placed on the partition wall portion (310). In detail, the base portion (350) may be placed below the second electrode (220), and the partition wall portion (310) may be placed below the base portion (350).

The partition wall portion (310) and the base portion (350) may include a resin material. For example, the partition wall portion (310) and the base portion (350) may include a photocurable resin material. For example, the partition wall portion (310) and the base portion (350) may include a UV resin or a transparent photoresist resin. Alternatively, the partition wall portion (310) and the base portion (350) may include a urethane resin or an acrylic resin.

The partition wall portion (310) and the receiving portion (320) may be arranged to extend in the second direction (2D) of the first substrate (110) and the second substrate (120). That is, the partition wall portion (310) and the receiving portion (320) may be arranged to extend in the width direction or the length direction of the first substrate (110) and the second substrate (120).

The above-mentioned bulkhead (310) and the receiving portion (320) may be arranged with different widths. For example, the width of the bulkhead (310) may be larger than the width of the receiving portion (320).

In addition, the receiving portion (320) may be formed in a shape that extends from the first electrode (210) toward the second electrode (220) and has a narrow width.

The above-mentioned partition walls (310) and the receiving portions (320) may be arranged alternately. In detail, the above-mentioned partition walls (310) and the receiving portions (320) may be arranged alternately. That is, each partition wall (310) may be arranged between the adjacent receiving portions (320), and each receiving portion (320) may be arranged between the adjacent partition walls (310).

A light conversion material (330) including light conversion particles (330a) and a dispersion liquid (330b) in which the light conversion particles (330a) are dispersed can be placed in the above-described receiving portion (320).

The dispersion (330b) may be a material that disperses the light conversion particles (330a). The dispersion (330b) may include a transparent material. The dispersion (330b) may include a nonpolar solvent. In addition, the dispersion (330b) may include a material that can transmit light.

The above light conversion particles (330a) can be arranged while being dispersed within the dispersion (330b). In detail, the plurality of light conversion particles (330a) can be arranged while being spaced apart from each other within the dispersion (330b).

The light conversion particle (330a) may include a material capable of absorbing light. That is, the light conversion particle (330a) may be a light absorbing particle. The light conversion particle (330a) may have a color. For example, the light conversion particle (330a) may have a black color. As an example, the light conversion particle (330a) may include carbon black particles.

The light conversion particle (330a) may have a surface that is charged and thus may have polarity. For example, the light conversion particle (330a) may have a surface that is charged with a negative (-) charge. Accordingly, depending on the application of voltage, the light conversion particle (330a) may move toward the first electrode (210) or the second electrode (220).

The light transmittance of the receiving portion (320) can be changed by the light conversion particle (330a). In detail, the light transmittance of the receiving portion (320) can be changed by the light conversion particle (330a) to be changed into a light blocking portion and a light transmitting portion. That is, the receiving portion (330a) can change the light transmittance passing through the receiving portion (320) by dispersion and coagulation of the light conversion particle (330a) disposed inside the dispersion liquid (330b).

For example, the optical path absence according to the embodiment can be changed from the first mode to the second mode or from the second mode to the first mode by the voltage applied to the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220).

In detail, the light path control member according to the embodiment can be operated in a privacy mode in which the receiving portion (320) becomes a light blocking portion in the first mode, and light at a specific angle can be blocked by the receiving portion (320). That is, the viewing angle of a user viewing from the outside is narrowed, so that the light path control member can be operated in a privacy mode.

In addition, the optical path control member according to the embodiment is such that in the second mode, the receiving portion (320) becomes a light transmitting portion, and the optical path control member according to the embodiment can transmit light through both the partition wall portion (310) and the receiving portion (320). That is, the viewing angle of a user viewing from the outside is widened, so that the optical path control member can be driven in an open mode.

The transition from the first mode to the second mode, that is, the transformation of the receiving portion (320) from a light-blocking portion to a light-transmitting portion, can be implemented by the movement of the light conversion particle (330a) of the receiving portion (320). That is, the light conversion particle (330a) has a charge on its surface, and depending on the characteristics of the charge, can move toward the first electrode or the second electrode depending on the application of voltage. That is, the light conversion particle (330a) can be an electrophoretic particle.

For example, when no voltage is applied to the light path control member from the outside, the light conversion particles (330a) of the receiving portion (320) are uniformly dispersed in the dispersion liquid (330b), and thus, the receiving portion (320) can have light blocked by the light conversion particles (330a). Accordingly, in the first mode, the receiving portion (320) can be driven as a light blocking portion.

In addition, when a voltage is applied to the optical path control member from the outside, the optical conversion particle (330a) can be moved. For example, the optical conversion particle (330a) can be moved toward one end or the other end of the receiving portion (320) by the voltage transmitted through the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220). That is, the optical conversion particle (330a) can be moved toward the first electrode (210) or the second electrode (220).

For example, when voltage is applied to the first electrode (210) and/or the second electrode (220), an electric field is formed between the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220), and the light conversion particles (330a) that are negatively charged can move toward the positive electrode of the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) using the dispersion (330b) as a medium.

For example, in the initial mode or when no voltage is applied to the first electrode (210) and/or the second electrode (220), as illustrated in FIG. 3, the light conversion particles (330a) are uniformly dispersed within the dispersion (330b), so that the receiving portion (320) can be driven as a light blocking portion.

In addition, when voltage is applied to the first electrode (210) and/or the second electrode (220), as illustrated in FIG. 2, the light conversion particle (330a) can move toward the second electrode (220) within the dispersion (330b), that is, the light conversion particle (330a) can move in one direction, and the receiving portion (320) can be driven as a light transmitting portion.

Accordingly, the light path control member according to the embodiment can be driven in two modes depending on the user's surrounding environment, etc. That is, when the user wants light transmission only at a specific viewing angle, the receiving unit can be driven as a light blocking unit, or, in an environment where the user requires a wide viewing angle and high brightness, the receiving unit can be driven as a light transmitting unit by applying voltage.

Therefore, since the optical path control member according to the embodiment can be implemented in two modes according to the user's needs, the optical path member can be applied without being restricted by the user's environment, etc.

Below, referring to FIGS. 13 to 17, a display device and a display device to which an optical path control member according to an embodiment is applied are described.

Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, the light path control member (1000) according to the embodiment may be placed on or below the display panel (2000).

The display panel (2000) and the light path control member (1000) may be arranged to be adhered to each other. For example, the display panel (2000) and the light path control member (1000) may be adhered to each other through an adhesive member (1500). The adhesive member (1500) may be transparent. For example, the adhesive member (1500) may include an adhesive or an adhesive layer including an optically transparent adhesive material.

The above adhesive member (1500) may include a release film. In detail, when bonding the light path member and the display panel, the light path control member and the display panel may be bonded after removing the release film.

The display panel (2000) may include a first' substrate (2100) and a second' substrate (2200). When the display panel (2000) is a liquid crystal display panel, the light path control member may be formed at a lower portion of the liquid crystal panel. That is, when a surface of the liquid crystal panel viewed by a user is defined as an upper portion of the liquid crystal panel, the light path control member may be disposed at a lower portion of the liquid crystal panel. The display panel (2000) may be formed in a structure in which a first' substrate (2100) including a thin film transistor (TFT) and a pixel electrode and a second' substrate (2200) including color filter layers are bonded with a liquid crystal layer therebetween.

In addition, the display panel (2000) may be a liquid crystal display panel having a COT (color filter on transistor) structure in which a thin film transistor, a color filter, and a black electrolyte are formed on a first substrate (2100), and a second substrate (2200) is bonded to the first substrate (2100) with a liquid crystal layer therebetween. That is, a thin film transistor may be formed on the first substrate (2100), a protective film may be formed on the thin film transistor, and a color filter layer may be formed on the protective film. In addition, a pixel electrode in contact with the thin film transistor may be formed on the first substrate (2100). At this time, in order to improve the aperture ratio and simplify the mask process, the black electrolyte may be omitted, and a common electrode may be formed to also serve as the black electrolyte.

In addition, when the display panel (2000) is a liquid crystal display panel, the display device may further include a backlight unit (3000) that provides light from the rear surface of the display panel (2000).

That is, as shown in FIG. 13, the light path control member is placed below the liquid crystal panel and above the backlight unit (3000), so that the light path control member can be placed between the backlight unit (3000) and the display panel (2000).

Alternatively, when the display panel (2000) is an organic light-emitting diode panel as shown in FIG. 14, the light path control member may be formed on the upper portion of the organic light-emitting diode panel. That is, when the surface of the organic light-emitting diode panel that the user views is defined as the upper portion of the organic light-emitting diode panel, the light path control member may be placed on the upper portion of the organic light-emitting diode panel. The display panel (2000) may include a self-luminous element that does not require a separate light source. The display panel (2000) may include a thin film transistor formed on a first' substrate (2100), and an organic light-emitting element formed in contact with the thin film transistor. The organic light-emitting element may include an anode, a cathode, and an organic light-emitting layer formed between the anode and the cathode. In addition, the organic light-emitting element may further include a second' substrate (2200) that serves as a sealing substrate for encapsulation on the organic light-emitting element.

In addition, although not shown in the drawing, a polarizing plate may be further arranged between the light path control member (1000) and the display panel (2000). The polarizing plate may be a linear polarizing plate or an anti-reflection polarizing plate. For example, when the display panel (2000) is a liquid crystal display panel, the polarizing plate may be a linear polarizing plate. In addition, when the display panel (2000) is an organic light emitting diode panel, the polarizing plate may be an anti-reflection polarizing plate.

In addition, an additional functional layer (1300), such as an anti-reflection layer or an anti-glare layer, may be further disposed on the optical path control member (1000). In detail, the functional layer (1300) may be adhered to one surface of the first substrate (110) of the optical path control member. Although not shown in the drawing, the functional layer (1300) may be adhered to the first substrate (110) of the optical path control member through an adhesive layer. In addition, a release film that protects the functional layer may be further disposed on the functional layer (1300).

Additionally, a touch panel may be further arranged between the display panel and the light path control member.

Although the drawing illustrates that the light path control member is positioned on the upper portion of the display panel, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the light control member may be positioned at various positions where light control is possible, such as at the lower portion of the display panel or between the second substrate and the first substrate of the display panel.

In addition, although the light conversion unit of the light path control member according to the embodiment is depicted in the drawing as being parallel or perpendicular to the outer surface of the second substrate, the light conversion unit may be formed at a certain angle with respect to the outer surface of the second substrate. This can reduce the moire phenomenon occurring between the display panel and the light path control member.

Referring to FIGS. 15 to 17, the optical path control member according to the embodiment can be applied to various display devices.

Referring to FIGS. 15 to 17, the optical path control member according to the embodiment can be applied to a display device that displays a display.

For example, when power is applied to the light path control member as in FIG. 15, the receiving portion functions as a light transmitting portion, so that the display device can be driven in a light-blocking mode, and when power is not applied to the light path control member as in FIG. 16, the receiving portion functions as a light blocking portion, so that the display device can be driven in a light-blocking mode.

Accordingly, the user can easily drive the display device in privacy mode or normal mode depending on the power supply.

Light emitted from the backlight unit or self-luminous element can travel from the first substrate toward the second substrate. Alternatively, light emitted from the backlight unit or self-luminous element can also travel from the second substrate toward the first substrate.

In addition, referring to FIG. 17, a display device to which an optical path control member according to an embodiment is applied can also be applied inside a vehicle.

For example, a display device including an optical path control member according to an embodiment can display information about a vehicle and an image confirming a moving path of the vehicle. The display device can be placed between the driver's seat and the passenger's seat of the vehicle.

Additionally, the optical path control member according to the embodiment can be applied to an instrument panel that displays vehicle speed, engine, and warning signals, etc.

Additionally, the optical path control member according to the embodiment can be applied to the front windshield (FG) or left and right window glass of the vehicle.

The features, structures, effects, etc. described in the above-described embodiments are included in at least one embodiment of the present invention, and are not necessarily limited to only one embodiment. Furthermore, the features, structures, effects, etc. exemplified in each embodiment can be combined or modified and implemented in other embodiments by a person having ordinary knowledge in the field to which the embodiments belong. Therefore, the contents related to such combinations and modifications should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the present invention.

In addition, although the above has been described with reference to examples, these are merely examples and do not limit the present invention, and those with ordinary knowledge in the field to which the present invention pertains will be able to recognize that various modifications and applications not exemplified above are possible without departing from the essential characteristics of the present invention. For example, each component specifically shown in the examples can be modified and implemented. And the differences related to such modifications and applications should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the present invention defined in the appended claims.

Claims (12)

First substrate;
A first electrode disposed on the first substrate;
A second substrate disposed on the first substrate;
A second electrode disposed under the second substrate;
A light conversion unit disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode; and
Including an adhesive layer disposed between the above light conversion unit and the second electrode,
The above optical conversion unit includes a plurality of partition walls, a plurality of receiving units, and a base unit,
A light conversion material is placed in the above-mentioned receiving portion,
Including a first sealing portion that contacts one end and the other end of the above-mentioned light conversion portion,
The above first sealing portion is an optical path control member formed integrally with the adhesive layer. In paragraph 1,
The thickness of the adhesive layer is an optical path control member in which the thickness of the area near the first sealing portion is smaller than the thickness of the central area of the adhesive layer. In paragraph 1,
The adhesive layer disposed on the first sealing portion includes a region corresponding to the bulkhead portion and a region corresponding to the receiving portion,
An optical path control member in which the thickness of the adhesive layer in the area corresponding to the above-mentioned bulkhead is greater than the thickness of the adhesive layer in the area corresponding to the above-mentioned receiving portion. In paragraph 1,
An optical path control member in which the adhesive layer extends in the direction of the first sealing portion and has a decreasing thickness. In paragraph 1,
The above first sealing portion is placed inside the receiving portion and is in contact with one end and the other end of the light conversion material,
An optical path control member in which the first sealing portions are arranged inside the plurality of receiving portions and are connected to each other through the adhesive layer. In paragraph 1,
Further comprising a buffer layer disposed between the first electrode and the light conversion unit,
The above first sealing portion is an optical path control member that is in direct contact with the buffer layer. In paragraph 1,
The above first sealing portion is an optical path control member that is in direct contact with the second substrate. In paragraph 1,
It further includes a second sealing part arranged to surround the outer surface of the above light conversion part,
The second sealing portion is an optical path control member including a bending region. In Article 8,
The above second sealing portion is in direct contact with the second substrate,
At least one of the ends of the second substrate and the other end is an optical path control member that is bent along the bending region; A panel comprising at least one of a display panel and a touch panel; and
A display device comprising an optical path control member according to any one of claims 1 to 9, arranged on or under the panel. In Article 10,
The above panel includes a backlight unit and a liquid crystal display panel,
The above light path control member is arranged between the backlight unit and the liquid crystal display panel,
A display device in which light emitted from the backlight unit moves from the first substrate toward the second substrate. In Article 10,
The above panel includes an organic light-emitting diode panel,
The above optical path control member is disposed on the organic light emitting diode panel,
A display device in which light emitted from the above panel moves from the first substrate toward the second substrate.

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