JP2003280037A - Active matrix type liquid crystal display device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an active matrix type liquid crystal display device having a wide range of viewing angles with uniform color tone and capable of realizing the same viewing angle as that of a CRT, and also improving picture quality. <P>SOLUTION: This is the active matrix type liquid crystal display device comprising a pair of substrates, a liquid crystal layer held between the pair of substrates, a plurality of video signal lines formed on one of the substrates of the pair, a plurality of scanning signal lines formed on the one of the substrates of the pair, and pixel electrodes and counter electrodes formed on the one of the substrates, and the counter electrodes are supplied with counter voltage from the scanning signal lines. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a liquid crystal display device, and more particularly to a technique effectively applied to a lateral electric field type active matrix liquid crystal display device.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art An active matrix type liquid crystal display device using an active element represented by a thin film transistor (TFT) is widely used as a display terminal device such as OA equipment because of its thinness and light weight and high image quality comparable to a cathode ray tube. It is becoming popular. The display methods of this active matrix type liquid crystal display device are roughly classified into the following two display methods. First, by enclosing a liquid crystal layer between a pair of substrates having two transparent electrodes and applying a drive voltage to the two transparent electrodes, the liquid crystal layer is driven by an electric field in a direction substantially perpendicular to the substrate interface. Then, a method of modulating and displaying light that has passed through the transparent electrode and is incident on the liquid crystal layer (hereinafter, referred to as
This is called the vertical electric field method), and all the products that are currently popular use this method. However, in the active matrix type liquid crystal display device adopting the vertical electric field method, there is a remarkable change in luminance when the viewing angle direction is changed, and particularly when halftone display is performed, the gradation level is inverted depending on the viewing angle direction. There was a problem in practical use such as being lost.

The other is to enclose a liquid crystal layer between a pair of substrates and apply a driving voltage to two electrodes formed on the same substrate or both substrates, whereby a direction substantially parallel to the substrate interface is obtained. Is a method of driving the liquid crystal layer by the electric field of (2) and modulating and displaying the light incident on the liquid crystal layer through the gap between the two electrodes (hereinafter referred to as the "horizontal electric field method"). Type liquid crystal display device has not been put to practical use yet. However, the active-matrix liquid crystal display device adopting the lateral electric field method has characteristics such as a wide viewing angle and a low load capacity. This lateral electric field method is a promising technology for the active matrix liquid crystal display device. is there. Regarding the features of the active matrix type liquid crystal display device adopting the horizontal electric field method, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 5-505247 and Japanese Examined Patent Publication No. 63-219.
No. 07, JP-A-6-160878.

[0004]

In the conventional active matrix type liquid crystal display device adopting the horizontal electric field method, in order to improve the driving voltage and the response speed, the pixel electrode and the counter electrode arranged in parallel are opposed to each other. , The liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer are initially aligned homogeneously with a certain inclination, and the liquid crystal molecules are rotated in the plane to modulate the light for display. Therefore, the viewing angle is remarkably wider than that of the active matrix type liquid crystal display device adopting the vertical electric field method.

However, in the active matrix type liquid crystal display device adopting the horizontal electric field method, when the viewing angle is tilted in a certain direction, a uniform color tone cannot be realized, the viewing angle becomes narrow, and a cathode ray tube (CRT) is used. However, there is a problem that a viewing angle comparable to that of the self-luminous display device cannot be achieved. That is, when the viewing angle is tilted in the major axis direction when the liquid crystal molecule is rotated, the birefringence anisotropy of the liquid crystal molecule is more likely to change than when the viewing angle is tilted in other directions. The gradation is easier to invert and the color tone is easier to change than in other directions. In particular, when white is displayed in the normally black mode, the color tone of white shifts to blue in that direction. In addition, the birefringence anisotropy does not change in the minor axis direction of the liquid crystal molecule forming an angle of 90 ° with that, but the optical path length increases with the inclination of the viewing angle, and thus the white color tone becomes yellow in that direction. Shift to. As a result, there is a problem that a uniform color tone cannot be realized in the azimuth of a part, the viewing angle becomes narrow, and a viewing angle comparable to that of a cathode ray tube cannot be achieved.

The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems of the prior art, and an object of the present invention is to provide a wide viewing angle range in which color tones are uniform in an active matrix liquid crystal display device. An object of the present invention is to provide a technology capable of realizing a viewing angle comparable to that of a cathode ray tube and improving image quality. The above and other objects and novel features of the present invention will become apparent from the description of this specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0007]

Among the inventions disclosed in the present application, a brief description will be given to the outline of typical ones.
It is as follows. The present invention includes a pair of substrates, a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between the pair of substrates, a plurality of video signal lines formed on one of the pair of substrates, and a plurality of video signal lines formed on the one substrate. An active matrix type liquid crystal display device having a plurality of scanning signal lines, a pixel electrode formed on the one substrate, and a counter electrode, wherein a counter voltage is supplied to the counter electrode from the scan signal line. It is characterized by being done. In the present invention, the counter electrode is connected to another scan signal line adjacent to the scan signal line to which the pixel electrode facing the counter electrode is connected via the active element. Further, in the present invention, the non-selection voltage supplied to the scanning signal line is binary. Further, in the present invention, the change in the non-selection voltage supplied to the adjacent scanning signal line is different between the adjacent pixels. Further, in the present invention, the counter electrode and the pixel electrode are provided in the same layer. Further, in the present invention, the facing surfaces of the counter electrode and the pixel electrode have sides having an inclination angle of θ and sides having an inclination angle of −θ with respect to the initial alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules.

Further, the present invention is an active matrix type liquid crystal display device, characterized in that liquid crystal molecules for displaying white are present in two directions at an angle of 90 °. In addition, the present invention is an active matrix liquid crystal display device, which has driving directions of liquid crystal molecules in which a white color tone shifts in a complementary color relationship with each other, and cancels the color tone shift to each other and depends on the direction of the white color tone. It is characterized by reducing the sex. Further, the present invention is characterized by adopting a lateral electric field method.

According to each of the above-mentioned means, in the active matrix type liquid crystal display device adopting the horizontal electric field method, the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer are initially aligned in a single direction, and each pixel or within one pixel. Since the initial alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer and the direction of the applied electric field between the pixel electrode and the counter electrode are made different to drive the liquid crystal molecules in two directions, the color tones are mutually shifted. Offset
It is possible to greatly reduce the dependency of the color tone on the azimuth. For example, in the case of birefringent normally black mode (dark when no voltage is applied, bright when voltage is applied), the polarization transmission axes of the two polarizing plates are orthogonal (crossed Nicols), When the angle formed by the long axes of the rotated liquid crystal molecules becomes 45 °, the maximum transmittance, that is, white display is obtained. In that state, when white display is viewed from the long axis direction of the liquid crystal molecule (angle of 45 ° from the polarization transmission axis), the birefringence anisotropy changes and the white color tone shifts to blue in that direction. To do. In addition, the birefringence anisotropy does not change in the minor axis direction of the liquid crystal molecules (angle of -45 ° from the polarization transmission axis) that makes an angle of 90 ° with that, but the optical path length increases with the inclination of the viewing angle. Causes the white tone to shift to yellow in that direction. Blue and yellow have a complementary color relationship in chromaticity coordinates, and when the two colors are mixed, white is obtained.

Therefore, the driving directions of the liquid crystal molecules are set to two directions for each pixel or within one pixel, for example,
If the angles of the liquid crystal molecules displaying white exist in two directions that form an angle of 90 ° with each other, it is possible to cancel the shifts of the color tones and significantly reduce the dependence of the white tone on the azimuth. Become. Similarly, in gradation inversion, the characteristics of the minor axis direction of the liquid crystal molecule in which gradation inversion is difficult and the major axis direction of the liquid crystal molecule in which gradation inversion is likely to occur are averaged, and the characteristics in the direction weak in gradation inversion. The non-gradation reversal viewing angle can be expanded. Thereby, the uniformity of gradation and the uniformity of color tone are averaged or expanded in all directions, and it is possible to realize a wide viewing angle close to that of a cathode ray tube.

[0011]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In all of the drawings for explaining the embodiments (examples) of the invention, components having the same function are designated by the same reference numeral, and repeated description thereof will be omitted. [First Embodiment of the Invention] First, an outline of a horizontal electric field type active matrix type color liquid crystal display device constructed in the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. << Plane Configuration of Matrix Part (Pixel Part) >> FIG. 1 shows one pixel and its periphery of an active matrix type color liquid crystal display device which is an embodiment (Embodiment 1) of the present invention. It is a top view. Each pixel has two adjacent scanning signal lines (gate signal line or horizontal signal line) (G
L) and an adjacent two video signal lines (drain signal lines or vertical signal lines) (DL) are arranged in an intersecting region (in a region surrounded by four signal lines). Each pixel includes a thin film transistor (TFT), a storage capacitor (Cstg), a pixel electrode (SL), a counter electrode (CL ′), and a counter voltage signal line (common signal line) (CL).

Here, the scanning signal lines (GL) and the counter voltage signal lines (CL) extend in the horizontal direction in FIG. 1 and are arranged in the vertical direction. Also, the video signal line (D
L) extends in the vertical direction and a plurality of L) are arranged in the horizontal direction. The pixel electrode (SL) is connected to the source electrode (SD1) of the thin film transistor (TFT), and the counter electrode (CL ') is integrally formed with the counter voltage signal line (CL). The pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ′) face each other, and an electric field between each pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ′) causes a liquid crystal layer (LCD).
Control the optical state of, and control the display. The pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ') are configured in a comb shape,
As shown in FIG. 1, the pixel electrode (SL) has a linear shape extending obliquely downward, and the counter electrode (CL ′) has a counter surface (pixel electrode (S) protruding upward from the counter voltage signal line (CL)).
L) has a comb-like shape extending obliquely upward, and a region between the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ′) is divided into two in one pixel.

<< Cross-Sectional Structure of Display Matrix Part (Pixel Part) >> FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross-section of an essential part taken along the line aa 'shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. Sectional view showing a cross section of a thin film transistor (TFT) taken along a line
FIG. 4 shows the storage capacitance (C
It is sectional drawing which shows the cross section of stg). As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, a thin film transistor (TF) is provided on the lower transparent glass substrate (SUB1) side based on the liquid crystal layer (LCD).
T), storage capacitance (Cstg) and electrode group are formed,
A color filter (FIL) and a light-shielding black matrix pattern (B) are provided on the upper transparent glass substrate (SUB2) side.
M) is formed. In addition, a transparent glass substrate (SUB
1, the inside of each (SUB2) (liquid crystal layer (LCD)
On the surface of the (side), an alignment film (O
R1, OR2) are provided, and a transparent glass substrate (S
Polarizing plates (POL1, POL2) are provided on the outer surfaces of UB1 and SUB2), respectively.

A more detailed structure will be described below. << TFT Substrate >> First, the lower transparent glass substrate (SUB1)
The configuration of the side (TFT substrate) will be described in detail. << Thin Film Transistor (TFT) >> Thin Film Transistor (T
The FT operates such that when a positive bias is applied to the gate electrode (GT), the channel resistance between the source and the drain is reduced, and when the bias is zero, the channel resistance is increased. The thin film transistor (TFT) is shown in FIG.
, The gate electrode (GT), the gate insulating film (G
I), i-type (intrinsic, intrinsic, i-type semiconductor layer (AS) made of amorphous silicon (Si) not doped with conductivity determining impurities), a pair of source electrodes (SD)
1), and has a drain electrode (SD2). The source electrode (SD1) and the drain electrode (SD2) are originally determined by the bias polarity between them, and the polarity is reversed during operation in the circuit of this liquid crystal display device. Therefore, the source electrode (SD1) and the drain electrode (SD2) ) Should be understood to change during operation.

However, in the following description, for convenience, one is fixed as the source electrode (SD1) and the other is fixed as the drain electrode (SD2). Although an amorphous silicon thin film transistor element is used as a thin film transistor (TFT) in the embodiments of the present invention, the invention is not limited to this. A polysilicon thin film transistor element, a MOS type transistor on a silicon wafer, an organic transistor TFT or MIM (Metal-Insulator-Me)
2-terminal element such as a diode (strictly speaking, it is not an active element, but it is an active element in the present invention)
It is also possible to use.

<< Gate Electrode (GT) >> Gate Electrode (G
T) is formed continuously with the scanning signal line (GL), and a partial region of the scanning signal line (GL) is a gate electrode (G).
T). Gate electrode (GT)
Is a portion that exceeds the active region of the thin film transistor (TFT), and is formed larger than it so as to completely cover the i-type semiconductor layer (AS) (when viewed from below). As a result, in addition to the role of the gate electrode (GT), the i-type semiconductor layer (AS) is designed so as not to be exposed to external light or backlight light. In the embodiment of the present invention, the gate electrode (GT) is formed of a single-layer conductive film (g1), and the conductive film (g1) is, for example, an aluminum (Al) -based film formed by sputtering. A conductive film is used, and an anodic oxide film of aluminum (Al) (A
OF) is provided.

<< Scanning Signal Line (GL) >> Scanning Signal Line (G)
L) is composed of a conductive film (g1), and the conductive film (g1) of this scanning signal line (GL) is a gate electrode (GT).
The conductive film (g1) is formed in the same manufacturing process and is integrally formed. By this scanning signal line (GL), the gate voltage (VG) is supplied to the gate electrode (GT) from the external circuit. An aluminum (Al) anodic oxide film (AOF) is also provided on the scanning signal line (GL).
<< Counter Electrode (CL ') >> The counter electrode (CL ′) is composed of a conductive film (g1) in the same layer as the gate electrode (GT) and the scanning signal line (GL). In addition, the counter electrode (CL ')
An anodized film (AOF) of aluminum (Al) is also provided on the top. A counter voltage (Vcom) is applied to the counter electrode (CL '). In the embodiment of the present invention, the counter voltage (Vcom) is the minimum level drive voltage (VD) applied to the video signal line (DL).
min) and the maximum level drive voltage (VDmax), and a feedthrough voltage (ΔV) generated when the thin film transistor element (TFT) is turned off.
However, if it is desired to reduce the power supply voltage of the integrated circuit used in the video signal drive circuit to about half, an AC voltage may be applied.

<< Counter Voltage Signal Line (CL) >> The counter voltage signal line (CL) is composed of a conductive film (g1). The conductive film (g1) of the counter voltage signal line (CL) has a gate electrode (GT), a scanning signal line (GL) and a counter electrode (C).
L ') is formed in the same manufacturing process as the conductive film (g1) and is integrally formed with the counter electrode (CL'). The counter voltage signal line (CL) supplies a counter voltage (Vcom) from the external circuit to the counter electrode (CL ′). Also,
An anodized film (AOF) of aluminum (Al) is also provided on the counter voltage signal line (CL). The counter electrode (CL ') and the counter voltage signal line (CL) may be formed on the upper transparent glass substrate (SUB2) (color filter substrate) side.

<< Insulating Film (GI) >> The insulating film (GI) is used as a gate electrode (G) in a thin film transistor (TFT).
It is used as a gate insulating film for applying an electric field to the semiconductor layer (AS) together with T). The insulating film (GI) is formed in the upper layer of the gate electrode (GT) and the scanning signal line (GL), and the insulating film (GI) is, for example, a silicon nitride film formed by plasma CVD, 1200
The thickness is about 2700 angstroms (about 2400 angstroms in the embodiment of the present invention). The gate insulating film (GI) is formed in the display matrix portion (A
R) is formed so as to surround the whole, and the peripheral portion is removed so that the external connection terminals (DTM, GTM) are exposed. The insulating film (GI) also contributes to electrical insulation between the scanning signal line (GL) and the counter voltage signal line (CL) and the video signal line (DL).

<< i-Type Semiconductor Layer (AS) >> The i-type semiconductor layer (AS) is made of amorphous silicon and has a thickness of 200 to 2200 Å (in the embodiment of the present invention, 20
(A film thickness of about 00 Å) is formed. Layer (d
0) is a phosphorus (P) -doped N (+) type amorphous silicon semiconductor layer for ohmic contact, the i-type semiconductor layer (AS) is present on the lower side, and the conductive film (d1,
It is left only where d2) exists. The i-type semiconductor layer (AS) is also provided between both the scanning signal line (GL) and the intersection (crossover portion) of the counter voltage signal line (CL) and the video signal line (DL). The i-type semiconductor layer (AS) at the intersection reduces the short circuit between the scanning signal line (GL) and the counter voltage signal line (CL) and the video signal line (DL) at the intersection.

<< Source Electrode (SD1), Drain Electrode (SD2) >> Source Electrode (SD1), Drain Electrode (S
Each of D2) is a conductive film (d1) in contact with the N (+) type semiconductor layer (d0) and a conductive film (d) formed thereon.
2) and. The conductive film (d1) is a chromium (Cr) film formed by sputtering,
It is formed to a thickness of 1000 Å (about 600 Å in the embodiment of the present invention). The chrome (Cr) film is formed in a range not exceeding a film thickness of about 2000 angstroms because stress increases as the film thickness increases. Chromium (Cr) film is N
Adhesion with the (+) type semiconductor layer (d0) is improved, and aluminum (Al) in the aluminum (Al) -based conductive film (d2) is prevented from diffusing into the N (+) type semiconductor layer (d0). It is used for the purpose (so-called barrier layer). As the conductive film (d1), in addition to the chromium (Cr) film,
Refractory metal (molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), tantalum (Ta), tungsten (W)) film, refractory metal silicide (MoSi2, TiSi2, TaSi2, W)
A Si2) film may be used.

As the conductive film (d2), an aluminum (Al) -based conductive film is sputtered from 3000 to 50.
It is formed to a thickness of 00 angstroms (about 4000 angstroms in the embodiment of the present invention). The aluminum (Al) -based conductive film has less stress than a chromium (Cr) film and can be formed to have a thick film thickness, and has a source electrode (SD1), a drain electrode (SD2), and a video signal line (DL). 2) has a function of reducing the resistance value of (1) and ensuring the step-over through the step due to the gate electrode (GT) and the i-type semiconductor layer (AS) (improving the step coverage). In addition, the conductive film (d1) and the conductive film (d
After patterning 2) with the same mask pattern, the N (+) type semiconductor layer (d0) is formed by using the same mask or by using the conductive film (d1) and the conductive film (d2) as masks.
Are removed. That is, the N (+) type semiconductor layer (d0) remaining on the i type semiconductor layer (AS) is the conductive film (d1),
The portion other than the conductive film (d2) is removed by self-alignment. At this time, since the N (+) type semiconductor layer (d0) is etched so that the entire thickness thereof is removed, the i type semiconductor layer (AS) is also slightly etched on its surface portion, but the extent is It may be controlled by the etching time.

<< Video Signal Line (DL) >> Video Signal Line (D
L is a source electrode (SD1) and a drain electrode (SD
2), similarly, it is composed of a conductive film (d1) and a conductive film (d2) formed thereon. The video signal line (DL) is formed in the same layer as the source electrode (SD1) and the drain electrode (SD2), and further, the video signal line (D
L) is formed integrally with the drain electrode (SD2). << Pixel Electrode (SL) >> The pixel electrode (SL) includes a source electrode (SD1) and a drain electrode (SD2), a conductive film (d1) and a conductive film (d2) formed thereon. Has been done. The pixel electrode (SL) is formed in the same layer as the source electrode (SD1) and the drain electrode (SD2), and the pixel electrode (SL) is formed as the source electrode (SD
It is configured integrally with 1).

<< Storage Capacitance (Cstg) >> Pixel Electrode (S
L) is configured to overlap the counter voltage signal line (CL) at the end opposite to the end connected to the thin film transistor (TFT). As is apparent from FIG. 4, this superposition is performed by using the pixel electrode (SL) as one electrode (PL2) and the counter voltage signal (CL) as the other electrode (PL1) as a storage capacitor (electrostatic capacitance element). ) (Cst
g). The dielectric film of the storage capacitor (Cstg) is an insulating film (GI) and an anodized film (AOF) used as a gate insulating film of a thin film transistor (TFT).
It is composed of. As shown in FIG. 1, in plan view, the storage capacitor (Cstg) is formed in the conductive film (g1) portion of the counter voltage signal line (CL).

<< Protective Film (PSV) >> A protective film (PSV) is provided on the thin film transistor (TFT). The protective film (PSV) is mainly used for thin film transistors (TF).
It is provided to protect T) from moisture and the like, and a material having high transparency and good moisture resistance is used. The protective film (PSV) is formed of, for example, a silicon oxide film or a silicon nitride film formed by a plasma CVD device,
It is formed to a film thickness of about 1 μm. The protective film (PSV) is formed so as to surround the entire display matrix portion (AR),
The peripheral portion is removed so that the external connection terminals (DTM, GTM) are exposed. Regarding the thickness relationship between the protective film (PSV) and the gate insulating film (GI), the former is made thicker in consideration of the protective effect, and the latter is made thinner considering the mutual conductance (gm) of the transistor. Therefore, the protective film (PSV) having a high protective effect is formed to be larger than the gate insulating film (GI) so as to protect the peripheral portion over as wide a range as possible.

<< Color Filter Substrate >> Next, FIGS.
Returning to, the configuration of the upper transparent glass substrate (SUB2) side (color filter substrate) will be described in detail. << Light-shielding film (BM) >> An unnecessary gap (pixel electrode (SL) and counter electrode (C) is provided on the upper transparent glass substrate (SUB2) side.
A light-shielding film (BM) (so-called black matrix) is formed so that transmitted light from a gap other than between L ′) is emitted to the display surface side and the contrast ratio and the like are not reduced. The light shielding film (BM) also plays a role of preventing external light or backlight light from entering the i-type semiconductor layer (AS). That is, the i-type semiconductor layer (AS) of the thin film transistor (TFT) is sandwiched by the upper and lower light-shielding films (BM) and the large gate electrode (GT) so that external natural light or backlight light is not exposed. The closed polygonal contour line of the light-shielding film (BM) shown in FIG. 1 indicates an opening in which the light-shielding film (BM) is not formed.

The light-shielding film (BM) has a light-shielding property and is formed of a film having a high insulating property so as not to affect the electric field between the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL '). In the embodiment of the present invention, a black pigment is mixed in the resist material to form a thickness of about 1.2 μm. The light shielding film (BM) is formed in a lattice shape around each pixel, and the effective display area of one pixel is partitioned by this lattice. Therefore, the contour of each pixel is made clear by the light shielding film (BM). That is, the light shielding film (BM) has two functions of a black matrix and a light shielding for the i-type semiconductor layer (AS). The light-shielding film (BM) is also formed in a frame shape in the peripheral portion, and its pattern is formed continuously with the pattern of the matrix portion shown in FIG. 1 in which a plurality of dots-like openings are provided. The light-shielding film (BM) at the periphery is the seal part (S
LP) is extended outside to prevent leakage light such as reflected light due to a mounting machine such as a personal computer from entering the display matrix portion. On the other hand, this light-shielding film (BM) is kept inside about 0.3 to 1.0 mm from the edge of the upper transparent glass substrate (SUB2), and is formed so as to avoid the cutting region of the upper transparent glass substrate (SUB2). There is.

<< Color Filter (FIL) >> The color filter (FIL) is formed in a stripe shape by repeating red, green, and blue at a position facing a pixel, and the color filter (FIL) is a light-shielding film (BM). ) Is formed so as to overlap the edge portion. Color filter (FIL)
Can be formed as follows. First, a dyeing base material such as an acrylic resin is formed on the surface of the upper transparent glass substrate (SUB2), and the dyeing base material other than the red filter forming region is removed by a photolithography technique. After that, the dyed substrate is dyed with a red dye, and a fixing process is performed to form a red filter (R). Next, the green filter (G) and the blue filter (B) are sequentially formed by performing the same process. << Overcoat film (OC) >> Overcoat film (O
C) is provided to prevent the dye from leaking from the color filter (FIL) to the liquid crystal layer (LCD) and to flatten the step due to the color filter (FIL) and the light shielding film (BM). . The overcoat film (OC) is formed of a transparent resin material such as acrylic resin or epoxy resin.

<< Structure around display matrix section (AR) >>
FIG. 5 shows upper and lower transparent glass substrates (SUB1 and SUB2).
Display Panel (PN) of Display Panel (PNL)
It is a figure which shows the principal part plane around a part. 6 is a diagram showing a cross section near the external connection terminal (GTM) to which the scanning circuit is to be connected on the left side, and a cross section near the seal portion where there is no external connection terminal on the right side. In the manufacture of this panel,
If small size, divided from simultaneously processing devices plurality fraction in one glass substrate for improving throughput, also, if large size was standardized in any breed for shared manufacturing facilities After processing a glass substrate of a size, the size is reduced to a size suitable for each product type, and in each case, the glass is cut after passing through one step.

5 and 6 show an example of the latter case, and both upper and lower transparent glass substrates (SUB1 and S) are shown in FIGS.
UB2) is shown after cutting, and LN shown in FIG. 5 shows the edges of both substrates before cutting. In either case, in the completed state, the external connection terminal group (Tg, Td) and the terminal (CTM)
The parts where the (subscripts are omitted) are present (on the upper side and the left side in the figure), the upper transparent glass substrate (SUB) is exposed so that they are exposed.
The size of 2) is limited to the inside of the lower transparent glass substrate (SUB1). The terminal group (Tg, Td) is a tape carrier package in which a scanning circuit connecting terminal (GTM), a video signal circuit connecting terminal (DTM), and their lead-out wiring portions, which are integrated circuit chips (CHI), are mounted, respectively, which will be described later. A plurality of (TCP) (FIGS. 16 and 17) are collectively named. The lead-out wiring from the display matrix portion of each group to the external connection terminal portion is inclined toward both ends. This is a package (TCP)
Of the display panel (PNL) terminals (DTM, G) depending on the arrangement pitch of and the connection terminal pitch of each package (TCP).
This is for matching TM). In addition, the counter electrode terminal (C
TM) is a counter voltage (Vcom) applied to the counter electrode (CL ′).
Is a terminal for giving from the external circuit.

The counter voltage signal line (C
L) is led out to the opposite side (right side in the figure) of the scanning circuit terminal (GTM), and the respective counter voltage signal lines (CL) are grouped together by the common bus line (CB) (counter electrode connection signal line) to face each other. It is connected to the electrode terminal (CTM). A seal pattern (SLP) is provided between the transparent glass substrates (SUB1, SUB2) along the edge thereof except the liquid crystal encapsulation port (INJ) so as to seal the liquid crystal layer (LCD). The seal pattern (SLP) is made of, for example, an epoxy resin. The layers of the alignment film (OR1, OR2) are
The polarizing plates (POL1, POL2) are formed inside the seal pattern (SLP), and the lower transparent glass substrate (SUB1) and the upper transparent glass substrate (SUB2) are respectively provided.
Is formed on the outer surface of.

The liquid crystal layer (LCD) is enclosed in a region partitioned by a seal pattern (SLP) between a lower alignment film (OR1) and an upper alignment film (OR2) that set the orientation of liquid crystal molecules. The lower alignment film (OR1) is formed on the lower transparent glass substrate (SUB1) side of the protective film (PSV). In the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, the lower transparent glass substrate (SUB1) and the upper transparent glass substrate (SUB
After forming 2) separately by stacking various layers, a seal pattern (SLP) is formed on the upper transparent glass substrate (SUB2).
Formed on the side, the lower transparent glass substrate (SUB1) and the upper transparent glass substrate (SUB2) are superposed, and liquid crystal (LCD) is opened from the opening (INJ) of the seal pattern (SLP).
Is injected, the injection port (INJ) is sealed with an epoxy resin, and the upper and lower substrates are cut to assemble.

<< Gate Terminal (GTM) Section >> FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a connection structure from the scanning signal line (GL) of the display matrix section (AR) to the gate terminal (GTM) which is an external connection terminal thereof. FIG. 7A is a plan view.
7B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line BB shown in FIG. Note that FIG. 7 corresponds to the vicinity of the lower side in FIG. 5, and the diagonal wiring portions are shown in a straight line for convenience. In FIG. 7, AO is a boundary line for direct photoresist writing, in other words, a photoresist pattern for selective anodic oxidation.
Therefore, this photoresist is removed after anodization, as shown in FIG.
The pattern (AO) shown in does not remain as a finished product,
The gate wiring (GL) has an oxide film (A
Since OF) is selectively formed, its locus remains.

In the plan view of FIG. 7A, with respect to the photoresist boundary line (AO), the left side is a region covered with resist and not anodized, and the right side is a region exposed from the resist and anodized. An aluminum oxide film (Al2O3) is formed on the surface of the anodized aluminum (AL) -based conductive film (g1), and the volume of the lower conductive portion is reduced. Of course, the anodic oxidation is performed by setting an appropriate time and voltage so that the conductive portion remains. In FIG.
The aluminum (AL) -based conductive film (g1) is hatched for easy understanding, but the region not anodized is patterned in a comb shape. This is because whiskers are generated on the surface when the width of the aluminum (Al) -based conductive film is large. Therefore, by narrowing the width of each one and by bundling them in parallel, The aim is to minimize the probability of wire breakage and the sacrifice of conductivity while preventing the occurrence.

The gate terminal (GTM) is a transparent film for protecting the aluminum (Al) -based conductive film (g1) and the surface thereof and for improving the reliability of connection with the TCP (Tape Carrier Packege). It is formed of a conductive film (g2). This transparent conductive film (g2) is made of a transparent conductive film (Indium-Tin-Oxide ITO: NES film) formed by sputtering, and has a thickness of 1000 to 2000 angstroms (1400 angstroms in the embodiment of the present invention). Film thickness). Further, the conductive film (d1) formed on the aluminum (Al) -based conductive film (g1) and on the side surface portion thereof supplements the poor connection between the conductive film (g1) and the transparent conductive film (g2). A conductive film (g
1) and the transparent conductive film (g2) are both connected to a chromium (Cr) layer (d1) having good connectivity to reduce the connection resistance. The conductive film (d2) is a conductive film (d2). It remains because it is formed with the same mask as d1).

In the plan view of FIG. 7A, the gate insulating film (GI) is formed on the right side of the boundary line (AO) and the protective film (PSV) is formed on the left side of the boundary line (AO). The terminal portion (GTM) located at the left end is exposed from them and can be electrically contacted with an external circuit. In FIG. 7, only one pair of the gate line (GL) and the gate terminal is shown, but in reality, a plurality of such pairs are arranged vertically to form the terminal group (Tg) shown in FIG. In the manufacturing process, the left end of the gate terminal extends beyond the cut region of the lower transparent glass substrate (SUB1) and is short-circuited by the wiring (SHg) (not shown). Such a short-circuit line (SHg) in the manufacturing process is useful for feeding power during anodization and preventing electrostatic breakdown during rubbing of the alignment film (OR1).

<< Drain Terminal (DTM) Section >> FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a connection from the video signal line (DL) of the display matrix section (AR) to the drain terminal (DTM) which is an external connection terminal thereof. 8 (A) is a plan view of FIG.
8B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line BB shown in FIG. Note that FIG. 8 corresponds to the vicinity of the upper right of FIG. 5, and although the orientation of the drawing is changed for convenience, the right end direction corresponds to the upper end of the lower transparent glass substrate (SUB1). In FIG. 8, TSTd is an inspection terminal, which is not connected to an external circuit, but has a width wider than that of the wiring portion so that a probe needle or the like can come into contact therewith. Similarly, the drain terminal (D
TM) is also wider than the wiring part so that it can be connected to an external circuit. A plurality of drain terminals (DTM) are vertically arranged to form a terminal group (Td) (subscripts omitted) shown in FIG. 5, and the drain terminals (DTM) are cut lines of the lower transparent glass substrate (SUB1). All of them are short-circuited to each other by wiring (SHd) (not shown) during the manufacturing process to prevent electrostatic breakdown. The inspection terminal (TSTd) is provided on every other video signal line (DL) as shown in FIG.

The drain connection terminal (DTM) is formed of a single layer of the transparent conductive film (g2), and the gate insulating film (G2).
The part where I) is removed is connected to the video signal line (DL). The semiconductor layer (AS) formed on the end portion of the gate insulating film (GI) is for etching the edge of the gate insulating film (GI) in a tapered shape. On the drain connection terminal (DTM), the protective film (PSV) is of course removed in order to connect to the external circuit. In the lead wiring from the display matrix portion (AR) to the drain terminal portion (DTM), conductive films (d1 and d2) having the same level as the video signal line (DL) are formed up to the middle of the protective film (PSV). , A transparent conductive film (g2) in the protective film (PSV)
Connected with. This is for the purpose of protecting the aluminum (Al) -based conductive film (d2), which is easy to contact with electricity, with a protective film (PSV) or a seal pattern (SLP) as much as possible.

<< Counter Electrode Terminal (CTM) >> FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a connection from the counter voltage signal line (CL) to the counter electrode terminal (CTM) which is an external connection terminal thereof.
9A is a plan view thereof, and FIG. 9B is a plan view thereof.
It is sectional drawing in the BB cutting line shown to (A). Note that FIG. 9 corresponds to the vicinity of the upper left of FIG. The respective counter voltage signal lines (CL) are collected by a common bus line (CB) and led out to the counter electrode terminal (CTM). The common bus line (CB) has a structure in which a conductive film (d1) and a conductive film (d2) are stacked on the conductive film (g1). This reduces the resistance of the common bus line (CB),
This is to ensure that the counter voltage is sufficiently supplied from the external circuit to each counter voltage signal line (CL). According to this structure, the resistance of the common bus line (CB) can be lowered without adding a new conductive film.

Conductive film (g1) of common bus line (CB)
Is not joined to the anode so as to be electrically connected to the conductive film (d1) and the conductive film (d2), and is also exposed from the gate insulating film (GI). Counter electrode terminal (C
TM) has a structure in which the transparent conductive film (g2) is laminated on the conductive film (g1). In this way, the conductive film (g1) is covered with the transparent conductive film (g2) having good durability to protect the surface and prevent electrolytic corrosion and the like.

<< Equivalent Circuit of Entire Display Device >> FIG. 10 is a connection diagram of an equivalent circuit of the display matrix section (AR) and its peripheral circuits. Although FIG. 10 is a circuit diagram, it is drawn corresponding to the actual geometrical arrangement. Figure 1
At 0, AR indicates a display matrix section (matrix array) in which a plurality of pixels are two-dimensionally arranged. In FIG. 10, SL is a pixel electrode, and subscripts G, B, and R are added corresponding to green, blue, and red pixels, respectively. Scan signal lines (GL) y0, y1, ..., Yen
d indicates the order of scanning timing. The scanning signal line (GL) is connected to the vertical scanning circuit (V), and the video signal line (DL) is connected to the video signal drive circuit (H). The circuit (SUP) supplies information for a CRT (cathode ray tube) from a power supply circuit or a host (upper processing unit) to obtain a plurality of divided and stabilized voltage sources from one voltage source (TFT). It is a circuit including a circuit for exchanging information for a liquid crystal display device.

<< Driving Method >> FIG. 11 is a diagram showing driving waveforms at the time of driving in the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 11 (a) and 11 (b) respectively show (i)
The gate voltage (scanning signal voltage) (VG) applied to the -1) th and (i) th scanning signal lines (GL) is shown. Further, FIG. 11C shows a video signal voltage (VD) applied to the video signal line (DL), and FIG. 11D shows
Opposing voltage (Vcom) applied to the opposing electrode (CL ')
Is shown. Further, FIG. 11 (e) shows row (i),
FIG. 11F shows the pixel electrode voltage (Vs) applied to the pixel electrode (SL) in the pixel in the column (j), and FIG.
The voltage (VLC) applied to the liquid crystal layer (LCD) of the pixels in the row and column (j) is shown. In the method of driving the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 11D, the counter voltage (Vco) applied to the counter electrode (CL ′) is applied.
m) is a binary AC rectangular wave of VCH and VCL, and the gate voltage (V) is applied to the gate electrode (GT) in synchronization with it.
The non-selection voltage of G) is changed in two values of VGLH and VGLL for every scanning period.

In this case, the amplitude value of the counter voltage (Vcom) and the amplitude value of the non-selection voltage of the gate voltage (VG) are made the same. The video signal voltage (VD) applied to the video signal line (DL) is a voltage (VSIG) obtained by subtracting 1/2 of the amplitude of the counter voltage (VC) from the voltage desired to be applied to the liquid crystal layer (LCD). The counter voltage (Vcom) applied to the counter electrode (CL ′) may be direct current, but by converting to alternating current, the maximum amplitude of the video signal voltage (VD) can be reduced, and the withstand voltage of the video signal drive circuit (signal side driver) can be reduced. It becomes possible to use a low one.

<< Function of Storage Capacitance (Cstg) >> The storage capacity (Cstg) is provided in order to store the video information written in the pixel (after the thin film transistor (TFT) is turned off) for a long time. Unlike the method of applying the electric field perpendicular to the substrate surface, the method of applying the electric field parallel to the substrate surface as in the embodiment of the present invention is configured by the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ′). Capacity (so-called liquid crystal capacity (C
Since there is almost no pix)), the storage capacity (Cstg)
Without it, the video information cannot be stored in the pixel. Therefore, the storage capacitor (Cstg) is an essential component in the method of applying the electric field parallel to the substrate surface. The storage capacitor (Cstg) also works to reduce the influence of the gate potential change (ΔVG) on the pixel electrode potential (Vs) when the thin film transistor (TFT) switches.

This situation can be expressed by the following equation.

[Expression 1] ΔVs = {Cgs / (Cgs + Cstg + Cp
ix)} × ΔVG where Cgs is a parasitic capacitance formed between the gate electrode (GT) and the source electrode (SD1) of the thin film transistor (TFT), and Cpix is the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ′). ΔVs, which is a capacitance formed between and, represents a so-called feedthrough voltage, which is a change in the pixel electrode potential due to ΔVG. This change (ΔVs) is the liquid crystal layer (LCD).
Cause a direct current component added to the storage capacitor (Cst
The larger g) is, the smaller the value can be. The reduction of the direct current component applied to the liquid crystal layer (LCD) improves the life of the liquid crystal layer (LCD) and can reduce so-called burn-in in which the previous image remains when the liquid crystal display screen is switched. As mentioned above, the gate electrode (GT)
Is large enough to completely cover the i-type semiconductor layer (AS), so that the source electrode (SD1) and the drain electrode (SD)
2) the area of overlap with that of the parasitic capacitance (C
gs) becomes large, and the pixel electrode potential (Vs) is easily affected by the gate voltage (scanning signal voltage) (VG), which has the opposite effect. However, by providing the storage capacity (Cstg), this demerit can be eliminated.

<< Manufacturing Method >> Next, a manufacturing method of the lower transparent glass substrate (SUB1) side of the above-mentioned liquid crystal display device will be described with reference to FIGS. Note that FIG.
~ In Fig. 14, the central character is an abbreviation for the process name,
The left side shows the thin film transistor (TFT) portion shown in FIG. 3, and the right side shows the flow of processing seen in the sectional shape near the gate terminal shown in FIG. Except for the process B and the process D, the process A to the process I are divided corresponding to each photographic process, and all the cross-sectional views of each process show the stage after the photo process is finished and the photoresist is removed. There is. In the following description, photographic processing refers to a series of operations from application of photoresist to selective exposure using a mask to development thereof, and repeated description will be omitted.

Description will be given below in accordance with the divided steps. (Step A, FIG. 12) On a lower transparent glass substrate (SUB1) made of glass, aluminum (Al) -palladium (Pd), aluminum (Al) -silicon (Si), and aluminum (A) having a film thickness of 3000 Å are formed.
1) -tantalum (Ta), aluminum (Al) -titanium (Ti) -tantalum (Ta), etc.
1) is formed by sputtering. After the photographic processing, the conductive film (g1) is selectively etched with a mixed acid solution of phosphoric acid, nitric acid, glacial acetic acid and water. Thereby, the gate electrode (GT), the scanning signal line (GL), the counter electrode (CL '),
Counter voltage signal line (CL), electrode (PL1), gate terminal (GTM), first conductive film of common bus line (CB), first conductive film of counter electrode terminal (CTM), gate terminal (GT)
An anodizing bus line (SHg) (not shown) connecting M) and an anodizing pad (not shown) connected to the anodizing bus line (SHg) are formed.

(Step B, FIG. 12) After forming an anodizing mask (AO) by direct drawing, a solution of 3% tartaric acid adjusted to pH 6.25 ± 0.05 with ammonia was diluted 1: 9 with an ethylene glycol solution. The lower transparent glass substrate (SUB1) is dipped in an anodizing solution composed of the above solution and adjusted so that the formation current density is 0.5 mA / cm ² (constant current formation). Next, an aluminum oxide film (A
Anodization is performed until the formation voltage of 125 V required to obtain OF) is reached. After that, it is desirable to hold this state for several tens of minutes (constant voltage formation). This is important for obtaining a uniform aluminum oxide film (AOF). Thereby, the conductive film (g1) is anodized, and the gate electrode (GT), the scanning signal line (GL), the counter electrode (C).
L '), counter voltage signal line (CL) and electrode (PL1)
An anodic oxide film (A
OF) is formed.

(Step C, FIG. 12) A transparent conductive film (g2) made of an ITO film having a film thickness of 1400 Å is formed by sputtering. After photo processing, use a mixed acid solution of hydrochloric acid and nitric acid as an etching solution to form a transparent conductive film (g2).
By selectively etching the gate terminal (G
The second conductive film of the uppermost layer of TM), the drain terminal (DTM) and the counter electrode terminal (CTM) is formed. (Process D, FIG. 13) Ammonia gas, silane gas, and nitrogen gas were introduced into the plasma CVD apparatus to obtain a film thickness of 2200.
An angstrom silicon nitride film (SiNX) is provided, silane gas and hydrogen gas are introduced into the plasma CVD apparatus to form an i-type amorphous silicon (Si) film having a thickness of 2000 angstroms, and then hydrogen is added to the plasma CVD apparatus. Gas and phosphine gas are introduced to form an N (+)-type amorphous silicon (Si) film having a film thickness of 300 Å.

(Step E, FIG. 13) After the photographic processing, N (+) type amorphous silicon (S) is formed by using carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) as dry etching gas.
The island of the i-type semiconductor layer (AS) is formed by selectively etching the i) film and the i-type amorphous silicon (Si) film. (Step F, FIG. 13) After the photo processing, the silicon nitride film is selectively etched using sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) as a dry etching gas.

(Step G, FIG. 14) A conductive film (d1) made of chromium (Cr) having a film thickness of 600 angstroms is provided by sputtering, and aluminum (Al) -tantalum (T) having a film thickness of 4000 angstroms (T).
a), a conductive film (d2) made of aluminum (Al) -titanium (Ti) -tantalum (Ta) or the like is provided by sputtering. After the photographic processing, the conductive film (d2) was etched with a mixed acid solution containing phosphoric acid, nitric acid, glacial acetic acid and water,
The conductive film (d1) is etched with a cerium ammonium nitrate solution to form a video signal line (DL), a source electrode (SD1),
Drain electrode (SD2), pixel electrode (SL), electrode (P
L2), a bus line (SHd) (not shown) that short-circuits the second conductive film, the third conductive film and the drain terminal (DTM) of the common bus line (CB). The resist material used in the embodiment of the present invention was a semiconductor resist OFPR800 (trade name) manufactured by Tokyo Ohka. Next, in a dry etching device, carbon tetrachloride (CCl4),
By introducing sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) and etching the N (+) type amorphous silicon (Si) film, the N (+) type semiconductor layer (d0) between the source and the drain is selectively selected. Remove.

(Step H, FIG. 14) Ammonia gas, silane gas and nitrogen gas are introduced into the plasma CVD apparatus to form a silicon nitride film having a film thickness of 1 μm. After the photo processing, the protective film (PSV) is formed by selectively etching the silicon nitride film by a photo-etching technique using sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) as a dry etching gas.

<< Display Panel (PNL) and Drive Circuit Board P
CB1 >> FIG. 15 is a display panel (PNL) shown in FIG.
FIG. 6 is a plan view showing a state in which a video signal drive circuit (H) and a vertical scanning circuit (V) are connected to each other. In FIG. 15, CHI
15 are drive IC chips for driving the display panel (PNL). The lower five IC chips shown in FIG. 15 are vertical scan circuit side drive IC chips, and the left ten are video signal drive circuit side drive I.
It is a C chip. TCP is a tape carrier package in which a driving IC chip (CHI) is mounted by a tape automated bonding method (TAB) as described later with reference to FIGS. 16 and 17, and PCB1 is the tape carrier package (TCP) or a capacitor. Etc. are mounted on the drive circuit board, and the drive circuit board is divided into two parts, one for the video signal drive circuit and the other for the scanning signal drive circuit. FGP is a frame ground pad, and a spring-like fragment provided by cutting into a shield case (SHD) is soldered. FC is the lower drive circuit board (PCB1) and the left drive circuit board (PB1)
It is a flat cable that electrically connects CB1).
As the flat cable (FC), a plurality of lead wires (phosphor bronze material plated with tin (Sn)) sandwiched between a striped polyethylene layer and a polyvinyl alcohol layer are used.

<< TCP Connection Structure >> FIG. 16 shows a scanning signal drive circuit (V) and a video signal drive circuit (H).
FIG. 17 is a sectional view showing a sectional structure of a tape carrier package (TCP) in which an integrated circuit chip (CHI) is mounted on a flexible wiring board, and FIG. 17 shows a state in which the tape carrier package (TCP) is connected to a liquid crystal display panel (PNL) (in FIG. 16, FIG. 16). FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of essential parts showing a state where the scanning signal circuit terminal (GTM) is connected). In FIG. 16, TTB is an integrated circuit (CHI)
Is an input terminal / wiring part of the integrated circuit (CH)
I) output terminal / wiring part, and terminals (TTB, TT)
M) is made of, for example, copper (Cu), and each of the inner tip parts (commonly called inner leads) has an integrated circuit (CH
The bonding pad (PAD) of I) is connected by the so-called face-down bonding method.

The tip portions (commonly called outer leads) on the outside of the terminals (TTB, TTM) respectively correspond to the input and output of the semiconductor integrated circuit chip (CHI), and by soldering, etc., a CRT / TFT conversion circuit / power supply circuit. (SUP),
Alternatively, the liquid crystal display panel (PNL) is connected by an anisotropic conductive film (ACF). Package (TCP)
Is connected to the panel (PNL) side connection terminal (G
TM) is connected to the panel so as to cover the exposed protective film (PSV), and thus the external connection terminal (GTM)
(Or DTM) is covered with at least one of the protective film (PSV) and the package (TCP), and thus is resistant to electric contact. BF1 is a base film made of polyimide or the like, and SRS is a solder resist film for masking the solder so that it will not stick to an unnecessary place during soldering. The gap between the upper and lower glass substrates outside the seal pattern (SLP) is protected by epoxy resin (ESL) after cleaning, and silicone resin (SPX) is further filled between the package (TCP) and the upper substrate (SUB2) for protection. Are multiplexed.

<< Drive Circuit Board (PCB2) >> The drive circuit board (PCB2) is mounted with electronic parts such as ICs, capacitors and resistors. This drive circuit board (PCB2) has a power supply circuit for obtaining a plurality of divided and stabilized voltage sources from one voltage source, and a CRT (cathode ray tube) for a host (upper processing unit). A circuit (SU) including a circuit for converting information into information for a (TFT) liquid crystal display device.
P) is installed. CJ is a connector connecting portion to which a connector (not shown) connected to the outside is connected. The drive circuit board (PCB1) and the drive circuit board (PCB2) are electrically connected by a flat cable (FC).

<< Overall Structure of Liquid Crystal Display Module (MDL) >> FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view showing each component of the liquid crystal display module (MDL). SHD is a frame-shaped shield case (metal frame) made of a metal plate, LCW is a display window, PNL is a liquid crystal display panel, SPB is a light diffusion plate, and L.
CB is a light guide, RM is a reflection plate, BL is a backlight fluorescent tube, and LCA is a backlight case. The respective members are stacked in a vertical arrangement relationship as shown in the figure to assemble the module MDL. The entire module (MDL) is fixed by the claws and hooks provided on the shield case (SHD). The backlight case (LCA) has a shape that accommodates a backlight fluorescent tube (BL), a light diffusion plate (SPB), a light guide (LCB), and a reflector (RM). The light guide (LCB) The light of the backlight fluorescent tube (BL) arranged on the side surface of the liquid crystal display panel is made uniform by the light guide (LCB), the reflector (RM), and the light diffuser (SPB) on the display surface. Emit to the (PNL) side. Backlight fluorescent tube (BL)
An inverter circuit board (PCB3) is connected to the power source for the backlight fluorescent tube (BL).

<< Liquid Crystal Layer and Polarizing Plate >> Next, the liquid crystal layer, the alignment film, the polarizing plate and the like will be described. << Liquid Crystal Layer >> As a liquid crystal material for the liquid crystal layer (LCD), the dielectric anisotropy (Δε) is positive, its value is 13.2, and the refractive index anisotropy (Δn) is 0.081 (589 nm, 20). (° C) nematic liquid crystal is used. Liquid crystal layer thickness (gap)
Is 3.9 μm, and the retardation (Δn · d) is 0.316. The value of this retardation (Δn · d) is 1 which is approximately the average wavelength of the wavelength characteristics of the backlight.
The color tone of the transmitted light of the liquid crystal layer is white (C
Light source, chromaticity coordinate x = 0.3101, y = 0.3163)
Set so that The maximum transmittance can be obtained when the angle formed by the polarization transmission axis of the polarizing plate and the long axis direction of the liquid crystal molecules is 45 °, and transmitted light having almost no wavelength dependence within the visible light range can be obtained. . The thickness (gap) of the liquid crystal layer is controlled by polymer beads. Also,
The larger the dielectric anisotropy (Δε), the lower the driving voltage can be. Further, the smaller the refractive index anisotropy (Δn), the thicker the liquid crystal layer (gap) can be. The time can be shortened and the gap variation can be reduced.

<< Alignment Film >> Polyimide is used as the alignment film (OR). The alignment (rubbing) direction of the alignment film, that is, the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD) is shown in FIG.
As shown in, the upper and lower substrates are parallel to each other and parallel to the video signal line (DL) (or perpendicular to the scanning signal line (GL)). << Polarizing Plate >> FIG. 19 shows the directions of applied electric fields and the polarizing plates (POL1, POL) in the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention.
It is a figure which shows the polarization transmission axis (OD1, OD2) direction of 2), and the drive direction of a liquid crystal molecule (LC). As shown in FIG. 19, the polarization transmission axis (O) of the lower polarizing plate (POL1) is
D1) and the polarization transmission axis (O) of the upper deflection plate (POL2).
D2) are orthogonal to each other, and the polarization transmission axis (OD1)
One of the polarization transmission axis (OD2) and the polarization transmission axis (OD2) is in the same direction as the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD). Accordingly, in the embodiment of the present invention, normally closed characteristics in which the transmittance increases as the voltage applied to the pixel (voltage between the pixel electrode SL and the counter electrode CL ′) increases can be obtained. it can. In addition, in order to obtain a normally white characteristic in which the transmittance decreases as the voltage applied to the pixel increases, the lower polarizing plate (POL)
The polarized light transmission axis (OD1) of 1) and the upper deflection plate (POL)
The polarization transmission axis (OD2) of 2) may be set in the same direction as the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD).

As shown in FIG. 1, in the embodiment of the present invention, the opposing surfaces (opposite electrodes (CL ′) or pixel electrodes (S) of the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ′) are opposed to each other.
L) is inclined, and the opposing surfaces of the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ′) are θ (counterclockwise) with respect to the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD). Alternatively, the inclination angle of −θ) should be clockwise. Accordingly, the angle formed by the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD) and the direction of the applied electric field (ED) is set to (90 ° −θ), and the liquid crystal driving region (opposite) The driving direction of liquid crystal molecules (LC) in the region between the electrode (CL ′) and the pixel electrode (SL) is defined as shown in FIG. The inclination angle θ is optimally 10 ° to 20 °. In the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, an electric field (ED) is applied between the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ′) substantially parallel to the substrate surface, and the liquid crystal is homogeneously aligned without twist. The display is performed by utilizing the birefringence of the layer (LCD). Since the long axis of liquid crystal molecules (LC) rotates on the substrate surface, there is little difference in the appearance of liquid crystal molecules when the panel is viewed from the front, when it is viewed obliquely, and when gray scales are displayed. A wide viewing angle can be realized. Further, in the embodiment of the present invention, the driving voltage is reduced by aligning the driving directions of the liquid crystal molecules within the liquid crystal driving region,
The response speed can be increased.

20 to 22 are diagrams showing an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 1 or similar pixels are arranged in a matrix. In the embodiment of the present invention, as in the arrangement example shown in FIGS. 20 to 22, the opposing surface is the liquid crystal layer (L
Θ or − with respect to the initial orientation direction (RD) of (CD)
By combining the pixels having the counter electrode (CL ′) and the pixel electrode (SL) having the inclination angle of θ and arranging them in a matrix, the driving directions of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) can be made different between the pixels. . Thereby, in the embodiment of the present invention, the homogeneously aligned liquid crystal layer (LC
It is possible to compensate the non-uniformity due to the viewing angle of the white color tone resulting from the unified driving direction in D), improve the display quality, and obtain a high-quality display image.

In the arrangement example shown in FIG. 20, the video signal line (D
In each pixel parallel to L), the opposing electrodes (CL ′) and the pixel electrodes (SL) are opposed to each other so that the inclination angles of the opposing surfaces with respect to the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD) are equal to each other. The surface has the same inclination angle (θ or −θ) with respect to the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD).
Pixels having a counter electrode (CL ′) and a pixel electrode (SL) each having a counter are arranged in a direction parallel to the video signal line (DL), and the counter surface thereof has an initial alignment direction of the liquid crystal layer (LCD) ( Pixel having a counter electrode (CL ′) and a pixel electrode (SL) having an inclination angle of θ or −θ with respect to RD) is alternately arranged in a direction parallel to the scanning signal line (GL). is there.

Further, in the arrangement example shown in FIG. 21, the opposing electrode (CL ') has an opposing surface having an inclination angle of θ or -θ with respect to the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD).
Pixels having a pixel electrode (SL) and a pixel electrode (SL) are arranged alternately in a direction parallel to the video signal line (DL). Further, in each pixel parallel to the scanning signal line (GL), a liquid crystal layer (LC
The counter electrode (C) with respect to the initial orientation direction (RD) of D).
L ′) and the pixel electrode (SL) have opposing surfaces with equal inclination angles, the opposing surfaces are arranged in a liquid crystal layer (LCD).
The pixel having the counter electrode (CL ') and the pixel electrode (SL) having the same inclination angle (θ or -θ) with respect to the initial alignment direction (RD) of the pixel is set in the direction parallel to the scanning signal line (GL). It is the example of arrangement arranged.

Further, in the arrangement example shown in FIG. 22, the opposing surface (CL ') of which the opposing surface has an inclination angle of θ or −θ with respect to the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD).
In this example, the pixels having the pixel electrodes (SL) are arranged alternately in the direction parallel to the video signal lines (DL) and the scanning signal lines (GL). In the arrangement examples shown in FIGS. 20 to 22, the driving directions of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD) are both two directions. However, in the arrangement example shown in FIG. Molecule (LC)
Since the driving directions of the white tones are different, it is possible to further improve the effect of compensating for non-uniformity due to the viewing angle of the white color tone.

In the embodiment of the present invention, in the viewing angle defined in FIG. 23, the white color tone can be made completely uniform in the range of φ up to 50 degrees in all directions, and the uniformity in the viewing angle direction can be improved. Further, in the non-gradation inversion region, the characteristics are averaged and the non-gradation inversion region is averaged in all directions, so that the problem that the characteristics deteriorate in a specific direction is solved. The same applies to the viewing angle dependence of the contrast ratio. As described above, in the embodiment of the present invention,
The uniformity of color tone, gradation inversion, and contrast ratio in the viewing angle direction can be improved, and a liquid crystal display device having a wide viewing angle closer to that of a cathode ray tube can be obtained.

[Embodiment 2] FIG. 24 shows one pixel and its periphery of an active matrix type color liquid crystal display device which is another embodiment (Embodiment 2) of the present invention. It is a top view shown. FIG. 25 shows the applied electric field direction and the polarization transmission axes (OD1, OD2) of the polarizing plates (POL1, POL2) in the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention.
It is a figure which shows 2) direction and the drive direction of a liquid crystal molecule (LC). It should be noted that the embodiment of the present invention uses the pixel electrode (S
The shapes of L) and the counter electrode (CL ′) are different from those of the first embodiment of the invention, but the other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment of the invention. In the embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 24, the pixel electrode (SL) has a substantially triangular shape in which the facing surface (the surface facing the facing electrode (CL ′)) extends obliquely downward, or the facing electrode. (CL ') has a comb-teeth shape in which the opposing surface (the surface facing the pixel electrode (SL)) protruding upward from the opposing voltage signal line (CL) extends obliquely upward, and the pixel electrode ( The region between SL) and the counter electrode (CL ') is divided into two in one pixel.

In the embodiment of the present invention, the alignment (rubbing) direction of the alignment film, that is, the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD), as shown in FIG. , And is parallel to the video signal line (DL) (or perpendicular to the scanning signal line (GL)). Further, as shown in FIG. 24, in the embodiment of the present invention, the facing surfaces of the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ′) (the counter electrodes (C
L ′) or the surface facing the pixel electrode (SL) is inclined, and the facing surfaces of the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ′) are oriented with respect to the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD). , Θ counterclockwise, −θ (or −clockwise
θ, θ). Thereby, the initial alignment direction (R) of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD) is
The angle between D) and the direction of the applied electric field (ED) is 90 °-
With θ and 90 ° + θ, the liquid crystal molecule (LC) drive direction in the liquid crystal drive region (region between the counter electrode (CL ′) and the pixel electrode (SL)) in one pixel is as shown in FIG. Prescribed in. Therefore, in the embodiment of the present invention, the driving directions of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) can be two directions within one pixel.

Also in the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, an electric field (ED) is applied between the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ′) substantially parallel to the substrate surface, and a homogeneous alignment with no twist is obtained. Display is performed by utilizing the birefringence of the liquid crystal layer (LCD). Since liquid crystal molecules (LC) rotate their major axes on the substrate surface, when the panel is viewed from the front, when viewed obliquely, and when gradation display is performed,
A wide viewing angle can be realized because the difference in the appearance of liquid crystal molecules is small. Further, by aligning the driving directions of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) within the liquid crystal driving region, the driving voltage can be reduced and the response speed can be increased. At this time, the inclination angle θ is optimally 10 to 20 °. In the embodiment of the present invention,
The driving direction of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) can be different for each liquid crystal driving area in one pixel, and the nonuniformity due to the viewing angle of the white color tone due to the uniform driving direction in the homogeneously aligned liquid crystal layer (LCD). Can be compensated for within one pixel, display quality can be improved, and a high-quality display image can be obtained.

FIGS. 26 and 27 are diagrams showing an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 24 or similar pixels are arranged in a matrix. The arrangement example shown in FIG. 26 is an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 24 are arranged in a matrix, and the arrangement example shown in FIG. 27 is in a direction parallel to the video signal line (DL) and shown in FIG. This is an arrangement example in which pixels, and pixels shown in FIG. 24, pixels having counter electrodes (CL ′) and pixel electrodes (SL) having symmetrical shapes are alternately arranged and arranged in a matrix.
In the arrangement example shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, the liquid crystal layer (LC
The driving directions of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) of D) are both two directions, but in the arrangement example shown in FIG. 27, since the driving directions of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) are different in the adjacent pixels, a white tone is obtained. It is possible to further improve the effect of compensating for the non-uniformity due to the viewing angle.

[Third Embodiment of the Invention] FIG. 28 shows one pixel and its periphery of an active matrix type color liquid crystal display device which is another embodiment (third embodiment of the invention) of the present invention. It is a top view shown. FIG. 29 shows directions of applied electric fields and polarization transmission axes (OD1, OD2) of the polarizing plates (POL1, POL2) in the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention.
It is a figure which shows 2) direction and the drive direction of a liquid crystal molecule (LC). It should be noted that the embodiment of the present invention uses the pixel electrode (S
The shapes of L) and the counter electrode (CL ′) are different from those of the first embodiment of the invention, but the other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment of the invention. In the embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 28, the pixel electrode (SL) has an upper-opened portion in which a portion within the display region of the pixel (opening region of the light shielding film (BM)) is an inclined portion. C-shaped, counter electrode (C
L ') has a comb tooth shape protruding upward from the counter voltage signal line (CL), and has a pixel electrode (SL) and a counter electrode (C).
The area between L ') is divided into four within one pixel.

In the embodiment of the present invention, the alignment (rubbing) direction of the alignment film, that is, the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD), as shown in FIG. , Parallel to the video signal line (DL) (or perpendicular to the scanning signal line (GL)). In addition, the counter electrode (C
L ′) is parallel to the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD), the pixel electrode (SL) is tilted, and the pixel electrode (S
L) has an inclination angle of θ or −θ in the counterclockwise direction with respect to the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD). As a result, liquid crystal molecules (LC) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD)
The angles formed by the initial alignment direction (RD) and the direction of the applied electric field (ED) are 90 ° −θ, 90 ° + θ, and the liquid crystal drive region (counter electrode (CL ′) and pixel electrode (SL) in one pixel). 29), the liquid crystal molecule (LC) driving direction is shown in FIG.
Specify as in (b). Therefore, also in the embodiment of the present invention, the driving directions of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) can be two directions within one pixel.

Also in the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, an electric field (ED) is applied between the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ′) substantially parallel to the substrate surface, and there is no twist and is homogeneous. The display is performed by utilizing the birefringence of the aligned liquid crystal layer (LCD). Since the long axis of liquid crystal molecules (LC) rotates on the substrate surface, there is little difference in the appearance of liquid crystal molecules when the panel is viewed from the front, when it is viewed obliquely, and when gray scales are displayed. A wide viewing angle can be realized. Further, by aligning the driving directions of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) within the liquid crystal driving region, the driving voltage can be reduced and the response speed can be increased. At this time, the angle θ
Is optimally 10 to 20 °. In the embodiment of the present invention, the driving directions of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) can be different in the liquid crystal driving area in one pixel, which is caused by the uniform driving direction in the homogeneously aligned liquid crystal layer (LCD). It is possible to compensate the non-uniformity of the white color tone due to the viewing angle within one pixel, improve the display quality, and obtain a high quality display image.

FIGS. 30 and 31 are diagrams showing an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 28 and similar pixels are arranged in a matrix. The arrangement example shown in FIG. 30 is an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 28 are arranged in a matrix, and the arrangement example shown in FIG. 31 is in the direction parallel to the video signal line (DL) and shown in FIG. This is an arrangement example in which the pixels and the pixels shown in FIG. 28 that are symmetrical with respect to the video signal line (DL) direction are alternately arranged while the counter voltage signal line (CL) is shared by the two pixels. . In the arrangement examples shown in FIG. 30 and FIG. 31, the driving directions of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD) are both two directions. However, in the arrangement example shown in FIG. Molecule (LC)
Since the driving directions of the white tones are different, it is possible to further improve the effect of compensating for non-uniformity due to the viewing angle of the white color tone.
Further, the display area per pixel can be made larger than in the first and second embodiments of the invention, and high-luminance and low-power consumption display can be performed.

[Fourth Embodiment of the Invention] FIG. 32 shows one pixel and its periphery of an active matrix type color liquid crystal display device which is another embodiment of the present invention (fourth embodiment of the invention). It is a top view shown. FIG. 33 shows the applied electric field direction and the polarization transmission axes (OD1, OD) of the polarizing plates (POL1, POL2) in the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention.
It is a figure which shows 2) direction and the drive direction of a liquid crystal molecule (LC). It should be noted that the embodiment of the present invention uses the pixel electrode (S
The shapes of L) and the counter electrode (CL ′) are different from those of the first embodiment of the invention, but the other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment of the invention. In the embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 32, the pixel electrode (SL) has a linear shape extending downward, and the counter electrode (CL ′) is the counter voltage signal line (C).
L) has a comb-teeth shape in which a portion in the display region of the pixel protruding upward extends in the upward direction, and has a pixel electrode (SL).
The region between the counter electrode and the counter electrode (CL ') is divided into two in one pixel. In addition, in the embodiment of the present invention, FIG.
As shown in A part in 2, the side of the counter electrode (CL ′) outside the display region of the pixel, which is opposed to the pixel electrode (SL), is formed in a tapered shape.

As a result, in the portion outside the display area of the pixel,
The counter electrode (CL ′) and the pixel electrode (SL) are crossed in the counterclockwise direction at angles θ and −θ via the protective film (PSV). This intersection is the counter electrode (C
L ′) and the pixel electrode (SL) have the shortest inter-electrode distance and the strongest electric field is applied. Therefore, when the electric field (ED) is applied to the liquid crystal layer (LCD), the liquid crystal layer (L
The liquid crystal molecules (LC) of (CD) start to drive rapidly. As a result, the liquid crystal molecules (LC) in the liquid crystal driving region between the counter electrode (CL ′) and the pixel electrode (SL) in the display region of the pixel are affected by the initial driving direction of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) at the intersection. Accordingly, the liquid crystal molecules (LC) at the intersection are driven in the same direction. As described above, in the embodiment of the present invention, the liquid crystal molecules (LC) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD) are formed by the intersections.
Defines the initial drive direction of.

That is, in the embodiment of the present invention, the intersection angle between the counter electrode (CL ′) and the pixel electrode (SL) is set to θ and −θ in the counterclockwise direction, and the counter electrode (CL ′) and the pixel electrode ( S
FIG. 33 shows the driving directions of liquid crystal molecules (LC) between L) and L).
Specify as in (b). Therefore, also in the embodiment of the present invention, the driving directions of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) can be two directions within one pixel. The angle θ is 0
It may be more than 90 ° and less than 90 °, but 30 ° to 60 ° is optimal. In addition, in the embodiment of the present invention, the alignment (rubbing) direction of the alignment film, that is, the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD), as shown in FIG. It is parallel to the video signal line (DL) (or perpendicular to the scanning signal line (GL)).

Also in the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, an electric field (ED) is applied between the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ') substantially in parallel to the substrate surface, and a homogeneous alignment without twist is obtained. Display is performed by utilizing the birefringence of the liquid crystal layer (LCD). Liquid crystal molecules (L) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD)
In C)), since the major axis is rotated on the substrate surface, there is little difference in the appearance of liquid crystal molecules when the panel is viewed from the front, when it is viewed obliquely, and when gradation display is performed. A viewing angle can be realized. In addition, liquid crystal molecules (LC)
By defining the initial drive direction of and aligning the liquid crystal drive directions, the drive voltage can be reduced and the response speed can be increased. Further, in the embodiment of the present invention, the driving direction of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) can be made different for each liquid crystal driving region in one pixel, and the homogeneously aligned liquid crystal layer (LCD).
The non-uniformity due to the viewing angle of the white color tone due to the unified driving direction in 1 is compensated within one pixel, the display quality is improved, and a high quality display image can be obtained.

FIGS. 34 and 35 are diagrams showing an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 32 or similar pixels are arranged in a matrix. The arrangement example shown in FIG. 34 is an arrangement example in which the pixels in FIG. 32 are arranged in a matrix, and the arrangement example shown in FIG. 35 is in the direction parallel to the video signal line (DL). In addition, a pixel that is symmetric with respect to the pixel shown in FIG. 32 in the video signal line (DL) direction is referred to as a counter voltage signal line (C
In this example, L) are shared by two pixels and are alternately arranged in a matrix. In the arrangement examples shown in FIGS. 34 and 35, the driving directions of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD) are both two directions. However, in the arrangement example shown in FIG. Since the driving directions of the molecules (LC) are different, it is possible to further improve the effect of compensating for the non-uniformity of the white color tone depending on the viewing angle. Further, in the embodiment of the present invention, since the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ′) are formed in parallel with the rubbing direction of the alignment film, when the alignment film is rubbed, the display region of the pixel is displayed. Since the buff cloth bristles can be smoothly applied to the electrode side part inside, the rubbing process near the end face of the electrode is performed smoothly and reliably, so that the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer in the electrode side part The orientation can be improved.

[Fifth Embodiment of the Invention] FIG. 36 shows one pixel and its periphery of an active matrix type color liquid crystal display device which is another embodiment of the present invention (Fifth Embodiment of the invention). It is a top view shown. FIG. 37 shows the applied electric field direction and the polarization transmission axes (OD1, OD) of the polarizing plates (POL1, POL2) in the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention.
It is a figure which shows 2) direction and the drive direction of a liquid crystal molecule (LC). It should be noted that the embodiment of the present invention uses the pixel electrode (S
The shapes of L) and the counter electrode (CL ′) are different from those of the first embodiment of the invention, but the other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment of the invention. In the embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 36, the pixel electrode (SL) has a linear shape in which the portion in the display region of the pixel extends downward, the counter electrode (C
L ') has a comb tooth shape protruding upward from the counter voltage signal line (CL), and has a pixel electrode (SL) and a counter electrode (C).
The region between L ') is divided into two within one pixel. In addition, in the embodiment of the present invention, as shown in part A in FIG. 36, the counter voltage signal line (C) is formed below the pixel electrode (SL).
L) is formed in a trapezoidal shape, and the counter electrode (CL ′) and the pixel electrode (S) are formed outside the display area of the pixel.
L) is crossed in a counterclockwise direction at angles of θ and −θ via a protective film (PSV). Also in the embodiment of the present invention, the liquid crystal layer (LC
The initial driving direction of the liquid crystal molecule (LC) of D) is shown in FIG.
Specify as follows.

That is, in the fourth embodiment of the invention, the counter electrode (C) having an angle with the linear pixel electrode (SL) is formed.
L ′) defines the initial drive direction of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) and performs display, whereas in the embodiment of the present invention, the linear counter electrode (CL ′) and the pixel electrode ( S
L) defines the initial drive direction of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD) and displays. Therefore, also in the embodiment of the present invention, the driving directions of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) can be two directions within one pixel. The angle θ may be more than 0 ° and less than 90 °, but 30 °
~ 60 ° is optimal. In the embodiment of the present invention, the alignment (rubbing) direction of the alignment film, that is, the liquid crystal layer (L
As shown in FIG. 36, the initial orientation direction (RD) of CD) is parallel to each other on the upper and lower substrates, and the video signal line (DL)
And (or perpendicular to the scanning signal line (GL)).

FIGS. 38 and 39 are diagrams showing an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 36 or similar pixels are arranged in a matrix. Also in the embodiment of the present invention, as in the case of the third embodiment of the present invention, the non-uniformity due to the viewing angle of the white color tone due to the uniform driving direction in the homogeneously aligned liquid crystal layer (LCD) is within one pixel. It becomes possible to obtain a high quality display image by compensating for the display quality. Further, also in the embodiment of the present invention, when the alignment film is rubbed, the rubbing process near the end face of the electrode in the display region of the pixel is smoothly and reliably performed, so that the liquid crystal layer on the side of the electrode It is possible to improve the alignment of the liquid crystal molecules.

[Sixth Embodiment of the Invention] FIG. 40 shows one pixel and its periphery of an active matrix type color liquid crystal display device which is another embodiment (sixth embodiment) of the present invention. It is a top view shown. FIG. 41 shows the direction of applied electric field and the polarization transmission axes (OD1, OD2) of the polarizing plates (POL1, POL2) in the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention.
It is a figure which shows 2) direction and the drive direction of a liquid crystal molecule (LC). It should be noted that the embodiment of the present invention uses the pixel electrode (S
The shapes of L) and the counter electrode (CL ′) are different from those of the first embodiment of the invention, but the other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment of the invention. In the embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 40, the pixel electrode (SL) has a U-shape that is open downward, and the counter electrode (CL ′) is upward from the counter voltage signal line (CL). It has a comb-like shape protruding from
The area between the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ') is 1
It is divided into four within a pixel. In addition, in the embodiment of the present invention, as shown in a portion A in FIG.
Is tapered in a portion close to the counter electrode (CL ′), and is a portion outside the display area of the pixel in the counter electrode (CL ′).
And the pixel electrode (SL) via a protective film (PSV)
They intersect in the counterclockwise direction at angles of θ and −θ.

As described in the fourth embodiment of the invention,
This intersection portion is provided with the counter electrode (CL ′) and the pixel electrode (S
When the electric field (ED) is applied to the liquid crystal layer (LCD) because the distance between the electrodes and L) is the shortest and the strongest electric field is applied, the liquid crystal molecules (LC) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD) at this intersection.
The liquid crystal molecules (LC) in the liquid crystal driving area between the pixel electrode (SL) and the central counter electrode (CL ′) in the display area of the pixel are crossed (see FIG. 40). Under the influence of the initial driving direction of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) in the (A part), the liquid crystal molecules are driven in the same direction as the liquid crystal molecules (LC) at the intersection. In addition, in the embodiment of the present invention, as shown in part B in FIG. 40, the side of the counter electrode (CL ′) outside the display region of the pixel, which is close to the pixel electrode (SL), is the pixel electrode. It is tapered like (SL),
The angles formed by the tapered counter voltage signal line (CL) and the counter electrode (CL ′) in the center are θ and −θ in the counterclockwise direction.

Further, in the portion B shown in FIG. 40, the distance between the counter electrode (CL ′) and the pixel electrode (SL) is such that the counter electrode (CL) in the display region of the pixel (opening region of the light shielding layer (BM)). ') And the pixel electrode (SL). As described above, in the part B shown in FIG. 40, the counter electrode (CL ′) and the pixel electrode (S
L) and the angle between the electric field direction (ED) and the initial alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD) is set to 90-θ and 90 + θ, and the part B shown in FIG. Defines the initial driving direction of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD). As a result, the liquid crystal molecules (LC) in the liquid crystal driving region between the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrodes (CL ′) at both ends in the display region of the pixel are the liquid crystal molecules (LC) in the B portion shown in FIG. Affected by the initial driving direction of
It is driven in the same direction as the liquid crystal molecules (LC) of the part B shown in FIG. Therefore, also in the embodiment of the present invention,
The liquid crystal molecules (LC) can be driven in two directions within one pixel. The angle θ is more than 0 ° and 90 °
The angle may be less than 30 °, but 30 ° to 60 ° is optimal.

Further, in the embodiment of the present invention, the alignment (rubbing) direction of the alignment film, that is, the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD) is parallel to each other on the upper and lower substrates as shown in FIG. And parallel to the video signal line (DL) (or perpendicular to the scanning signal line (GL)). Also in the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, the electric field (E) is substantially parallel to the substrate surface between the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ′).
D) is applied to display by utilizing the birefringence of the homogeneously aligned liquid crystal layer (LCD) without twist. Since the long axis of liquid crystal molecules (LC) rotates on the substrate surface, there is little difference in the appearance of liquid crystal molecules when the panel is viewed from the front, when it is viewed obliquely, and when gray scales are displayed. A wide viewing angle can be realized. In the embodiment of the present invention, liquid crystal molecules (L
The driving direction of C) can be made different, and the non-uniformity due to the viewing angle of the white color tone due to the uniform driving direction in the homogeneously aligned liquid crystal layer (LCD) is compensated for within one pixel to improve the display quality. As a result, a high quality display image can be obtained.

42 and 43 are diagrams showing an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 40 or similar pixels are arranged in a matrix. The arrangement example shown in FIG. 42 is an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 40 are arranged in a matrix, and the arrangement example shown in FIG. 43 is in the direction parallel to the video signal line (DL) and is shown in FIG. In the arrangement example, the pixels and the pixels shown in FIG. 40 that are symmetric with respect to the video signal line (DL) direction are alternately arranged while the opposing voltage signal line (CL) is shared by the two pixels. is there. In the arrangement examples shown in FIGS. 42 and 43, the driving directions of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD) are two directions, but in the arrangement example shown in FIG. Molecule (LC)
Since the driving directions of the white tones are different, it is possible to further improve the effect of compensating for non-uniformity due to the viewing angle of the white color tone.
In this case, the values of the angle θ of the A part and the B part shown in FIG. 40 can be set to different values. Further, also in the embodiment of the present invention, when the alignment film is rubbed, the rubbing process near the end face of the electrode in the display region of the pixel is smoothly and reliably performed, so that the liquid crystal layer on the side of the electrode It is possible to improve the alignment of the liquid crystal molecules.

[Seventh Embodiment of the Invention] FIG. 44 shows one pixel and its periphery of an active matrix type color liquid crystal display device which is another embodiment (seventh embodiment of the invention) of the present invention. It is a top view shown. 45 and 46 show
In the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, the applied electric field direction, the polarization transmission axis (OD) of the polarizing plates (POL1, POL2).
It is a figure which shows the driving direction of a liquid crystal molecule (LC), and the (1, OD2) direction. In the embodiment of the present invention, the shapes of the pixel electrode (SL), the counter electrode (CL ') and the video signal line (DL) are different from those of the first embodiment of the invention, but the other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment. This is the same as the first embodiment of the invention. In the embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 44, the pixel electrode (SL) has a linear shape extending obliquely downward, and the counter electrode (CL ′) has a counter voltage signal line (C).
L) has a comb-like shape protruding obliquely upward, and a region between the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ′) is divided into two in one pixel.

In the embodiment of the present invention, the alignment (rubbing) direction of the alignment film, that is, the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD), as shown in FIG. , And is perpendicular to the scanning signal line (GL). Further, as shown in FIG. 44, the counter electrode (CL ′) and the pixel electrode (SL) are parallel to each other, and the counter electrode (CL ′)
The pixel electrodes (SL) are tilted so that each electrode has a tilt angle of θ or −θ in the counterclockwise direction with respect to the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD). Also,
The video signal line (DL) is made parallel to the counter electrode (CL ') and the pixel electrode (SL), and the video signal line (DL) is also counterclockwise with respect to the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD). The angle of inclination should be θ or −θ. Further, a pixel and a video signal having a counter electrode (CL ′) and a pixel electrode (SL) having a tilt angle of θ or −θ counterclockwise with respect to the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD). The lines (DL) are arranged in a zigzag. Accordingly, the angles formed by the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD) and the electric field direction (ED) are set to 90 ° −θ and 90 ° + θ, and the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ′) are formed. The driving directions of liquid crystal molecules (LC) between the two are shown in FIGS.
Specify as in (b). The angle θ is 10 to 20 °
Is the best.

Also in the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, the electric field (ED) is applied between the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ′) substantially parallel to the substrate surface, and there is no twist and homogeneous alignment. Display is performed by utilizing the birefringence of the liquid crystal layer (LCD). Since the long axis of liquid crystal molecules (LC) rotates on the substrate surface, there is little difference in the appearance of liquid crystal molecules when the panel is viewed from the front, when it is viewed obliquely, and when gray scales are displayed. A wide viewing angle can be realized. Further, by aligning the driving directions of the liquid crystal molecules (LC) within the liquid crystal driving region, the driving voltage can be reduced and the response speed can be increased. In the embodiment of the present invention, the counter electrode (C having an inclination angle of θ or −θ counterclockwise with respect to the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD) is used.
Since the pixels having L ') and the pixel electrodes (SL) are arranged in a zigzag manner, the driving directions of two different liquid crystal molecules (LC) are alternated in the pixels continuous along the video signal line (DL). Therefore, it is possible to compensate the non-uniformity due to the viewing angle of the white tone due to the uniform driving direction in the homogeneously aligned liquid crystal layer (LCD), improve the display quality, and obtain a high quality display image. It will be possible.

[Embodiment 8] FIG. 47 shows one pixel and its periphery of an active matrix type color liquid crystal display device which is another embodiment of the present invention (Embodiment 8). It is a top view shown. FIG. 48 shows the direction of applied electric field and the polarization transmission axes (OD1, OD) of the polarizing plates (POL1, POL2) in the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention.
It is a figure which shows 2) direction and the drive direction of a liquid crystal molecule (LC). The embodiment of the present invention is the same as the first embodiment of the invention except for the following configuration. In the embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG.
On the upper transparent glass substrate (SUB2) side with reference to D), the upper alignment film (OR2), the protective film (PSV1), the counter voltage signal line (CL) and the counter electrode (CL '), the overcoat film (OC). ) And a color filter (FI
L), a black matrix pattern for light shielding (BM) is formed. The storage capacitor (Cstdg) is configured by superimposing the other end of the pixel electrode (SL) and the scanning signal line (GL) of the next stage.

In the embodiment of the present invention, the alignment (rubbing) direction of the alignment film, that is, the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD), as shown in FIG. , Counter electrode (CL ′), pixel electrode (S
L) and parallel to the video signal line (DL) (or perpendicular to the scanning signal line (GL)). Further, the counter voltage signal line (CL) and the counter electrode (CL ') are arranged on the upper transparent glass substrate (SUB2), and as shown in FIG. 48 (b), the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL'). ) And the electric field between and is slightly inclined with respect to the substrate. Here, when a pretilt is given at the time of initial alignment of the liquid crystal layer (LCD) by selecting the material of the liquid crystal layer (LCD) and the process conditions, each liquid crystal molecule (LC) has a portion close to the pixel electrode (SL). A portion close to the counter electrode (CL ') is generated, and FIG.
The liquid crystal driving direction is defined as shown in.

Also in the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, an electric field (ED) is applied between the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ′) substantially in parallel to the substrate surface, and there is no twist and homogeneous alignment. Display is performed by utilizing the birefringence of the liquid crystal layer (LCD). Since the long axis of liquid crystal molecules (LC) rotates on the substrate surface, there is little difference in the appearance of liquid crystal molecules when the panel is viewed from the front, when it is viewed obliquely, and when gray scales are displayed. A wide viewing angle can be realized. Further, in the embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 48, the counter electrode (CL ') formed on the upper transparent glass substrate (SUB2) and the lower transparent glass substrate (SU).
Since it is arranged alternately with the pixel electrode (SL) formed on B1), the liquid crystal drive region (pixel electrode (S
In the region between L) and the counter electrode (CL ′), an electric field (E
The inclination direction of D) with respect to the substrate is reversed. Therefore,
In the embodiment of the present invention, the liquid crystal driving directions are different in two directions in one pixel, and the non-uniformity due to the viewing angle of the white tone due to the uniform driving direction in the homogeneously aligned liquid crystal layer (LCD). Can be compensated for within one pixel, display quality can be improved, and a high-quality display image can be obtained.

FIG. 49 is a diagram showing an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 47 or similar pixels are arranged in a matrix. Further, also in the embodiment of the present invention, when the alignment film is rubbed, the rubbing process near the end face of the electrode in the display region of the pixel is smoothly and reliably performed, so that the liquid crystal layer on the side of the electrode It is possible to improve the alignment of the liquid crystal molecules. The upper transparent glass substrate (SUB2)
Shape of counter electrode (CL ') formed on top, pixel electrode (SL) formed on lower transparent glass substrate (SUB1)
And the relative relationship between the counter electrode (CL ') formed on the upper transparent glass substrate (SUB2) and the pixel electrode (SL) formed on the lower transparent glass substrate (SUB1). By making it similar to the second, fourth, and fifth embodiments, it becomes effective in defining the driving direction of the liquid crystal molecules (LC), and the driving voltage can be expected to decrease.

[Ninth Embodiment of the Invention] FIG. 50 shows one pixel and its periphery of an active matrix type color liquid crystal display device which is another embodiment of the present invention (Embodiment 9 of the invention). It is a top view shown. FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional view of the pixel taken along the line aa ′ shown in FIG. In the embodiment of the present invention, the counter electrode (CL ′) is the pixel electrode (S).
L) The same as Embodiment 1 of the present invention except that it is formed in the same layer. As shown in FIG. 51, in the embodiment of the present invention, the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (C
L ′) is formed in the same layer, and the counter electrode (CL ′) and the counter voltage signal line (CL) form a through hole (SH) in the gate insulating film (GI) and electrically connect the two. Connected. Here, when the counter voltage signal line (CL) is formed of an aluminum (Al) -based conductive film (g1), in order to connect the counter electrode (CL ′) and the counter voltage signal line (CL). , The counter voltage signal line (CL), the same material as the counter voltage signal line (CL), and those formed in the same process are not anodized. In this case, if chromium (Cr) is used for the counter voltage signal line (CL), the same material as the counter voltage signal line (CL), and the conductive film formed in the same process, anodic oxidation need not be performed.

Further, by providing the counter voltage signal line (CL) in the same layer as the pixel electrode (SL), it is possible not to form the through hole (SH), and further, the pixel electrode (SL). May be formed in the same layer as the counter electrode (CL ′) in the same step. Also in the liquid crystal display device of the embodiment of the present invention, as in the case of the first embodiment of the present invention, the facing surface thereof has the initial alignment direction (RD) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD).
With respect to the counter electrode (C
L ') and the pixel having the pixel electrode (SL) are combined and arranged in a matrix, so that the nonuniformity due to the viewing angle of the white tone due to the uniform driving direction in the homogeneously aligned liquid crystal layer (LCD). Can be compensated for, the display quality can be improved, and a high-quality display image can be obtained. Further, also in the second to seventh embodiments of the invention, the counter electrode (CL ′) can be formed in the same layer as the pixel electrode (SL), whereby the inventions of the above respective inventions can be achieved. It is possible to obtain the same effect as that of the embodiment.

[Embodiment 10] FIG. 52 shows one pixel and its periphery of an active matrix type color liquid crystal display device according to another embodiment (Embodiment 10) of the present invention. It is a top view shown. Embodiment 1 of the present invention is the same as Embodiment 1 of the present invention except for the following configurations.
Is the same as. According to the embodiment of the present invention, in the liquid crystal display device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, a counter voltage (Vc) is applied from an adjacent scanning signal line (GL) to a counter electrode (CL ').
om) is an embodiment of the invention.
As shown in FIG. 52, in the embodiment of the present invention,
The gate electrode (GT) and the counter electrode (CL ') are
The scanning signal line (GL) is formed continuously and integrally. Further, the portion intersecting with the video signal line (DL) is thinned in order to reduce the probability of short circuit with the video signal line (DL), and even if a short circuit occurs, it is bifurcated so that it can be separated by laser trimming. Has been done. Here, the counter electrode (C
L ') is connected to the scanning signal line (GL) of the immediately preceding line. The cross section of the pixel according to the embodiment of the present invention (the cross section taken along the line aa 'shown in FIG. 1) is the same as that shown in FIG.

FIG. 53 is a diagram showing an equalizing circuit of the display matrix portion (AR) and its peripheral circuits in the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention. Although FIG. 53 is also a circuit diagram, it is drawn corresponding to the actual geometrical arrangement. Figure 5
In FIG. 3, AR indicates a display matrix section (matrix array) in which a plurality of pixels are two-dimensionally arranged. In FIG. 53, SL is a pixel electrode, and subscripts G, B, and R are added corresponding to green, blue, and red pixels, respectively. GL is a scanning signal line, and y0, ..., Yend
Indicates the order of scanning timing. Scan signal line (G
L) is connected to the vertical scanning circuit (V), and the video signal line (DL) is connected to the video signal drive circuit (H). The circuit (SUP) supplies information for a CRT (cathode ray tube) from a power supply circuit or a host (upper processing unit) to obtain a plurality of divided and stabilized voltage sources from one voltage source (TFT). It is a circuit including a circuit for exchanging information for a liquid crystal display device.

FIG. 54 is a diagram showing drive waveforms during driving in the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention.
(A) and FIG. 54 (b) are respectively (i-1) th,
The gate voltage (scanning signal voltage) (VG) supplied to the (i) th scanning signal line (GL) is shown. Note that FIG.
In 4, (i) is an even number, so (i-1)
The scan signal line (GL) of the th is the odd scan signal line (G
L) and the (i) th scanning signal line (GL) indicate even-numbered scanning signal lines (GL), respectively. Also, FIG.
4 (c) shows a video signal voltage (VD) applied to the video signal line (DL), and FIG. 54 (d) shows (i).
The pixel electrode voltage (Vs) applied to the pixel electrode (SL) in the pixel in the row and (j) column is shown, and FIG.
The voltage (VLC) applied to the liquid crystal layer (LCD) of the pixel at row (i) and column (j) is shown.

In the method of driving the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, the scanning signal line (GL) is changed to the counter electrode (C).
Since the counter voltage (Vcom) must be applied to L ′), the non-selection voltage of the gate voltage (VG) supplied to the scanning signal line (GL) is set to VGLH and VGL for each frame.
It is changed by a binary rectangular wave of M or a binary rectangular wave of VGLM and VGLL. Furthermore, the adjacent scanning signal line (G
The change of the non-selection voltage of the gate voltage (VG) supplied to L) should not be the same. 54 (a) and FIG.
In the example shown in (b), the (i-1) th scanning signal line (G
The non-selection voltage of the gate voltage (VG) supplied to L) is
Odd frame, binary value of VGLM and VGLL, even frame, V
The non-selection voltage of the gate voltage (VG) supplied to the (i) th scanning signal line (GL) is changed by binary values of GLH and VGLM, and the odd value of VGLH and VGLM is even. In the frame, it is changed by the binary value of VGLM and VGLL. In this case, the center potential of VGLH and VGLM is VGL1, the center potential of VGLM and VGLL is VGL2, and the amplitude values of VGLH and VGLM and the amplitude values of VGLM and VGLL are equal to 2VB.

Also in the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, the facing surface thereof has liquid crystal molecules (L) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD).
Pixels having a counter electrode (CL ′) and a pixel electrode (SL) having a tilt angle of θ or −θ with respect to the initial alignment direction of C) are combined and arranged in a matrix to achieve homogeneous alignment. It is possible to compensate the non-uniformity of the white color tone due to the viewing angle in the liquid crystal layer (LCD) due to the uniform driving direction, improve the display quality, and obtain a high-quality display image. Further, also in the second to seventh embodiments of the invention, it is possible to supply the counter voltage (Vcom) from the adjacent scanning signal line (GL) to the counter electrode (CL ′). As a result, it is possible to obtain the same effects as those of the above-described embodiments of the invention. Further, in the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, the aperture ratio can be improved.

[Embodiment 11] FIG. 55 shows a pixel and its periphery of an active matrix type color liquid crystal display device which is another embodiment (Embodiment 11) of the present invention. It is a top view shown. The embodiment of the present invention is an embodiment of the invention in which the counter electrode (CL ') is formed in the same layer as the pixel electrode (SL) in the liquid crystal display device shown in the tenth embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 55, in the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention,
The gate electrode (GT) is continuously and integrally formed with the inspection signal line (GL). Further, the counter electrode (CL ′) is connected to the immediately preceding scanning signal line (GL) via the through hole (SH). Note that the cross section of the pixel in the embodiment of the present invention (the cross section taken along the line aa 'in FIG. 50) is the same as that in FIG. In this case, when the scanning signal line (GL) is formed of the aluminum (Al) -based conductive film (g1), in order to connect the counter electrode (CL ′) and the scanning signal line (GL), The scanning signal line (GL), the same material as the scanning signal line (GL), and those formed in the same process are not anodized. In this case, the scanning signal line (GL) and
If chromium (Cr) is used as the conductive film formed of the same material and in the same process, it is not necessary to perform anodic oxidation.

Also in the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, the facing surface thereof has liquid crystal molecules (L) of the liquid crystal layer (LCD).
C) A pixel having a counter electrode (CL ′) and a pixel electrode (SL) having a tilt angle of θ or −θ with respect to the initial alignment direction of C) is combined to be unified in a homogeneously aligned liquid crystal layer (LCD). It is possible to compensate the non-uniformity of the white color tone due to the viewing angle due to the driving direction, improve the display quality, and obtain a high-quality display image. In addition, Embodiment 2 of the invention to Embodiment 7 of the invention
Also in the above, the counter voltage (Vcom) may be supplied to the counter electrode (CL ′) from the adjacent scanning signal line (GL), and the counter electrode (CL ′) may be formed in the same layer as the pixel electrode (SL). This is possible, and it is possible to obtain the same effects as those of the above-described embodiments of the invention. Further, in the liquid crystal display device according to the embodiment of the present invention, the aperture ratio can be improved.

Although the area between the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ′) is divided into 2 or 4 in one pixel in the embodiments of each invention described above, the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (CL ′) are periodically added, so that the pixel electrode (SL) and the counter electrode (C) are added.
It is also possible to divide the area between L ′) into 2 or 4 or more within one pixel. Although the present invention has been specifically described based on the embodiments of the present invention, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments of the present invention, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. Needless to say.

[0104]

The effects obtained by the typical ones of the inventions disclosed in the present application will be briefly described as follows. (1) According to the present invention, in the active matrix type liquid crystal display device adopting the horizontal electric field method, it is possible to cancel the shifts of the color tones to each other and to greatly reduce the dependence of the white tone on the azimuth. Further, the characteristics in the short axis direction of the liquid crystal molecules that are difficult to invert the gradation and the long axis direction of the liquid crystal molecules that are easy to invert the gradation are averaged, and the non-gradation inversion viewing angle in the direction weak in the gradation inversion is expanded. It becomes possible. This makes it possible to improve the range of viewing angles in all directions, and average or expand the uniformity of gradation and the uniformity of color tone in all directions. (2) According to the present invention, by aligning the driving directions of the liquid crystal molecules within the liquid crystal driving region, it is possible to reduce the driving voltage and increase the response speed. (3) According to the present invention, since the initial alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer is a single direction, it is not necessary to increase the manufacturing process. (4) According to the present invention, an extremely high-quality liquid crystal display having an extremely wide viewing angle, an excellent viewing angle characteristic of color tone, a viewing angle comparable to that of a cathode ray tube, a high contrast ratio, and excellent display quality. It is possible to obtain the device.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a main-portion plan view showing one pixel and its periphery of an active matrix type color liquid crystal display device which is an embodiment (Embodiment 1) of the present invention.

2 is a cross-sectional view of the pixel taken along the line aa 'in FIG.

3 is a cross-sectional view of the thin film transistor element (TFT) taken along section line 4-4 of FIG.

FIG. 4 shows a storage capacitance (Cst
It is a sectional view of g).

FIG. 5 is a plan view for explaining a configuration of a matrix peripheral portion of a display panel (PNL) in the liquid crystal display device according to the first embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a scan signal terminal on the left side and a panel edge portion having no external connection terminal on the right side in the liquid crystal display device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a connection structure from a scanning signal line (GL) of a display matrix portion (AR) to a gate terminal (GTM) which is an external connection terminal thereof in the liquid crystal display device according to the first embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a connection from a video signal line (DL) of a display matrix section (AR) to a drain terminal (DTM) which is an external connection terminal thereof in the liquid crystal display device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a connection from a counter voltage signal line (CL) to a counter electrode terminal (CTM) which is an external connection terminal thereof in the liquid crystal display device according to the first embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an equalizing circuit of a display matrix unit (AR) and its peripheral circuits in the liquid crystal display device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing drive waveforms during driving in the liquid crystal display device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart of a cross-sectional view of a pixel portion and a gate terminal portion showing manufacturing steps of steps A to C on the transparent substrate (SUB1) side in the liquid crystal display device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a flow chart of a cross-sectional view of a pixel portion and a gate terminal portion showing manufacturing steps of steps D to F on the transparent substrate (SUB1) side in the liquid crystal display device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a flow chart of a cross-sectional view of a pixel portion and a gate terminal portion showing manufacturing steps of steps G to H on the transparent substrate (SUB1) side in the liquid crystal display device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a plan view showing a state in which a peripheral drive circuit is mounted on the liquid crystal display panel (PNL) according to the first embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross-sectional structure of a tape carrier package (TCP) in which an integrated circuit chip (CHI) forming a drive circuit in the liquid crystal display device according to the first embodiment of the invention is mounted on a flexible wiring board.

FIG. 17 is a main-portion cross-sectional view showing a state where the tape carrier package (TCP) in the liquid crystal display device of Embodiment 1 of the invention is connected to the scanning signal circuit terminals (GTM) of the liquid crystal display panel (PNL).

FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view of a liquid crystal display module in the liquid crystal display device according to the first embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an applied electric field direction, polarization transmission axis (OD1, OD2) directions of polarizing plates (POL1, POL2), and liquid crystal molecules (L) in the liquid crystal display device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
It is a figure which shows the drive direction of C).

20 is a diagram showing an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 1 or similar pixels are arranged in a matrix.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 1 or similar pixels are arranged in a matrix.

22 is a diagram showing an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 1 or similar pixels are arranged in a matrix.

FIG. 23 is a diagram showing definitions of viewing angles in the first embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 24 is a plan view showing one pixel and its periphery of an active matrix type color liquid crystal display device which is another embodiment of the present invention (Embodiment 2 of the invention).

FIG. 25 is a view showing an applied electric field direction, polarization transmission axis (OD1, OD2) directions of polarizing plates (POL1, POL2), and liquid crystal molecules (L) in the liquid crystal display device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
It is a figure which shows the drive direction of C).

FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 24 or similar pixels are arranged in a matrix.

27 is a diagram showing an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 24 or similar pixels are arranged in a matrix.

FIG. 28 is a plan view showing one pixel and its periphery of an active matrix type color liquid crystal display device which is another embodiment of the present invention (Embodiment 3 of the invention).

FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an applied electric field direction, polarization transmission axis (OD1, OD2) directions of polarizing plates (POL1, POL2), and liquid crystal molecules (L) in the liquid crystal display device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.
It is a figure which shows the drive direction of C).

FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 28 and similar pixels are arranged in a matrix.

FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 28 and similar pixels are arranged in a matrix.

FIG. 32 is a plan view showing one pixel and its periphery of an active matrix type color liquid crystal display device which is another embodiment of the present invention (Embodiment 4 of the invention).

FIG. 33 is a diagram showing an applied electric field direction, polarization transmission axis (OD1, OD2) directions of polarizing plates (POL1, POL2), and liquid crystal molecules (L) in the liquid crystal display device according to the fourth embodiment of the invention.
It is a figure which shows the drive direction of C).

FIG. 34 is a diagram showing an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 32 or similar pixels are arranged in a matrix.

FIG. 35 is a diagram showing an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 32 or similar pixels are arranged in a matrix.

FIG. 36 is a plan view showing one pixel and its periphery of an active matrix type color liquid crystal display device which is another embodiment of the present invention (Embodiment 5 of the invention).

FIG. 37 is a diagram showing an applied electric field direction, polarization transmission axis (OD1, OD2) directions of polarizing plates (POL1, POL2), and liquid crystal molecules (L) in the liquid crystal display device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.
It is a figure which shows the drive direction of C).

38 is a diagram showing an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 36 or similar pixels are arranged in a matrix.

FIG. 39 is a diagram showing an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 36 or similar pixels are arranged in a matrix.

FIG. 40 is a plan view showing one pixel and its periphery of an active matrix type color liquid crystal display device which is another embodiment of the present invention (Embodiment 6 of the invention).

FIG. 41 is a diagram showing an applied electric field direction, polarization transmission axis (OD1, OD2) directions of polarizing plates (POL1, POL2), and liquid crystal molecules (L) in the liquid crystal display device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.
It is a figure which shows the drive direction of C).

42 is a diagram showing an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 40 or similar pixels are arranged in a matrix.

43 is a diagram showing an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 40 or similar pixels are arranged in a matrix.

FIG. 44 is a plan view showing one pixel and its periphery of an active matrix type color liquid crystal display device which is another embodiment (Embodiment 7 of the invention) of the present invention.

FIG. 45 is a diagram showing an applied electric field direction, polarization transmission axis (OD1, OD2) directions of polarizing plates (POL1, POL2), and liquid crystal molecules (L) in the liquid crystal display device according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.
It is a figure which shows the drive direction of C).

FIG. 46 is a view showing an applied electric field direction, polarization transmission axis (OD1, OD2) directions of polarizing plates (POL1, POL2), and liquid crystal molecules (L) in the liquid crystal display device according to the seventh embodiment.
It is a figure which shows the drive direction of C).

FIG. 47 is a plan view showing one pixel and its periphery of an active matrix type color liquid crystal display device which is another embodiment (Embodiment 8 of the invention) of the present invention.

48] An applied electric field direction, polarization transmission axis (OD1, OD2) directions of polarizing plates (POL1, POL2), and liquid crystal molecules (L) in a liquid crystal display device according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.
It is a figure which shows the drive direction of C).

FIG. 49 is a diagram showing an arrangement example in which the pixels shown in FIG. 47 are arranged in a matrix.

FIG. 50 is a plan view showing one pixel and its periphery of an active matrix type color liquid crystal display device which is another embodiment of the present invention (Embodiment 9 of the invention).

51 is a cross-sectional view of the pixel taken along the line aa ′ in FIG. 50.

FIG. 52 is a plan view showing one pixel and its periphery of an active matrix type color liquid crystal display device which is another embodiment of the present invention (Embodiment 10 of the invention).

FIG. 53 is a diagram showing an equalizing circuit of a display matrix portion (AR) and its peripheral circuits in a liquid crystal display device according to a tenth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 54 is a diagram showing drive waveforms during driving in the liquid crystal display device according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 55 is a plan view showing one pixel and its periphery of an active matrix type color liquid crystal display device which is another embodiment (Embodiment 11 of the invention) of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

SUB ... Transparent glass substrate, GL ... Scan signal line, DL ... Video signal line, CL ... Counter voltage signal line, SL ... Pixel electrode, C
L '... counter electrode, GI ... insulating film, GT ... gate electrode, A
S ... i-type semiconductor layer, SD ... Source electrode or drain electrode, OR ... Orientation film, OC ... Overcoat film, POL ...
Polarizing plate, PSV ... Protective film, BM ... Light-shielding film, FIL ... Color filter, LCD ... Liquid crystal layer, LC ... Liquid crystal molecule, TFT
... thin film transistor, g, d ... Conductive film, Cstg ... Storage capacitor, AOF ... Anodized film, AO ... Anodized mask, G
TM ... gate terminal, DTM ... drain terminal, CTM ... counter electrode terminal, CB ... common bus line, SHD ... shield case, PNL ... liquid crystal display panel, SPB ... light diffusion plate,
LCB ... Light guide, BL ... Backlight fluorescent tube, LCA ...
Backlight case, RM ... Reflector.

   ─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continued front page    (72) Inventor Kazuhiro Ogawa             Hitachi, Ltd. 3300 Hayano, Mobara-shi, Chiba             Factory Electronic Devices Division (72) Inventor Kazuhiko Yanagawa             Hitachi, Ltd. 3300 Hayano, Mobara-shi, Chiba             Factory Electronic Devices Division (72) Inventor Masahiro Yanai             Hitachi, Ltd. 3300 Hayano, Mobara-shi, Chiba             Factory Electronic Devices Division (72) Inventor Katsumi Kondo             7-1-1, Omika-cho, Hitachi-shi, Ibaraki Prefecture             Inside the Hitachi Research Laboratory, Hitachi Ltd. (72) Inventor Masato Oe             Hitachi, Ltd. 3300 Hayano, Mobara-shi, Chiba             Factory Electronic Devices Division (72) Inventor Nobutake Konishi             Hitachi, Ltd. 3300 Hayano, Mobara-shi, Chiba             Factory Electronic Devices Division F-term (reference) 2H090 JD14 KA04 MA02 MA07                 2H092 GA14 JA26 JA29 JA46 JB14                       JB23 JB38 JB51 JB58 KA05                       KA12 KA18 NA04

Claims (9)

[Claims] 1. A pair of substrates, a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between the pair of substrates, a plurality of video signal lines formed on one substrate of the pair of substrates, and formed on the one substrate. An active matrix type liquid crystal display device having a plurality of scanning signal lines and a pixel electrode and a counter electrode formed on the one substrate, wherein a counter voltage is applied to the counter electrode from the scan signal line. An active matrix liquid crystal display device characterized by being supplied. 2. The counter electrode is connected to another scan signal line adjacent to a scan signal line to which a pixel electrode facing the counter electrode is connected via an active element. 1. The active matrix type liquid crystal display device according to 1. 3. The active matrix type liquid crystal display device according to claim 1, wherein the non-selection voltage supplied to the scanning signal line is binary. 4. The active matrix type liquid crystal display device according to claim 3, wherein the change of the non-selection voltage supplied to the adjacent scanning signal line is different in the adjacent pixels. 5. The active matrix type liquid crystal display device according to claim 1, wherein the counter electrode and the pixel electrode are provided in the same layer. 6. The facing surfaces of the counter electrode and the pixel electrode have sides having an inclination angle of θ and sides having an inclination angle of −θ with respect to an initial alignment direction of liquid crystal molecules. The active matrix type liquid crystal display device according to any one of claims 1 to 5. 7. The angle of liquid crystal molecules displaying white is
An active matrix type liquid crystal display device characterized by being present in two directions forming an angle of 90 ° with each other. 8. An active matrix which has driving directions of liquid crystal molecules in which a white color tone shifts in a complementary color relationship with each other, and cancels the color tone shifts to reduce the dependence of the white color tone depending on the azimuth direction. Type liquid crystal display device. 9. The active matrix liquid crystal display device according to claim 7, wherein a horizontal electric field system is adopted.