JP2008216423A - Liquid crystal device and electronic apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a liquid crystal device capable of readily adjusting white balance. <P>SOLUTION: The liquid crystal device has a liquid crystal layer, held in between an element substrate and a color filter (CF) substrate. The element substrate includes pixel electrodes, and the CF substrate includes color layers in respective colors of B, G, and R. Pixel areas are formed in areas wherein pixel electrodes and color layers overlap. A light-shielding layer is provided island-like at positions overlapping the parts of color layers, in at least one color within the pixel areas from among the color layers in respective colors of B, G, and R. This configuration allows changes in the proportion of the quantity of light to be transmitted through color layers in at least one pertinent color, by changing areas of the light-shielding layer when the light-shielding layer is formed. As a result, white balance (whiteness index) of white light, resulting from mixing primary color light transmitted through color layers in respective colors of B, G, and R, can be adjusted easily, without having to change the colorants of color layers, sizes of pixel electrodes, or the like and without adjusting illumination light of backlight. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a liquid crystal device suitable for displaying various information.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, liquid crystal devices capable of full color display are known as display devices used for mobile phones and the like. In such a liquid crystal device, red (R), green (G), and blue (B) color layers are provided for each unit pixel serving as a display unit, and a liquid crystal is provided for each unit pixel of each color. Full color display is performed by controlling the ratio of the transmission amount of each color of R, G, and B by changing the voltage applied to the layer.

  In such a liquid crystal device, white is displayed by combining the three primary colors of R, G, and B. If the luminance balance (so-called white balance) for displaying this white is not good, the display quality is degraded. Invite. Therefore, in such a liquid crystal device, generally, the white balance (whiteness) is adjusted by appropriately changing the material, size, thickness, and the like of the colored layer.

  In this regard, for example, in the liquid crystal devices disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2, chromaticity adjustment is performed by performing predetermined processing on the R, G, and B digital signals.

  In addition, the liquid crystal device disclosed in Patent Document 3 is provided with a fluorescent lamp that independently emits the three primary colors of red, green, and blue, and lighting control that can independently control the light emission luminance of each color fluorescent lamp. The luminance distribution of the three primary colors is changed by the circuit to change the white chromaticity of the backlight.

JP 2001-282190 A JP 2000-206486 A JP-A-10-240198

  In the liquid crystal device for full color display described above, in order to adjust the white balance, for example, when the size (area) of the colored layer is changed and the area of the unit pixel is changed for each color, Therefore, the size of the pixel capacity is different. In this case, the pixel capacity must be adjusted for each color, which causes problems such as a complicated pixel structure and an increase in man-hours.

  Further, the above-described liquid crystal devices according to Patent Documents 1 and 2 have a problem that a complicated signal processing circuit must be provided in order to adjust white balance. Further, the liquid crystal device described in Patent Document 3 has a problem that the backlight must be adjusted by the lighting control circuit in order to adjust the white balance.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and an object of the present invention is to provide a liquid crystal device capable of easily adjusting white balance and an electronic apparatus using the liquid crystal device.

  In one aspect of the present invention, a liquid crystal device includes a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between a first substrate and a second substrate, and the first substrate includes an electrode for driving the liquid crystal layer. In addition, the second substrate includes a plurality of colored layers, and a pixel region is formed in a region where the electrode and the colored layer overlap, at least of the first substrate and the second substrate. On the other hand, among the colored layers of the plurality of colors, a light-shielding layer having a predetermined area is provided in an island shape at a position overlapping with a part of the colored layer of at least one color in the pixel region. ing.

  The liquid crystal device includes a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between a first substrate and a second substrate. The first substrate includes an electrode for driving the liquid crystal layer, and the second substrate includes a plurality of colored layers. A pixel region serving as a display unit is formed in a region where the electrode and the colored layer overlap.

  In particular, at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate, and a position of a plurality of colored layers that overlaps a part of at least one colored layer in the pixel region has a predetermined area. A light-shielding layer having an island shape is provided.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to change the ratio of the amount of light transmitted through the colored layer of at least one color by changing the area of the light shielding layer when forming the light shielding layer. In a preferred example, the light shielding layer preferably has a square, circular or elliptical planar shape. As a result, it is possible to easily adjust the white balance (whiteness) of white light obtained by mixing primary color light transmitted through a plurality of colored layers. Moreover, according to this configuration, when the color material, chromaticity, and color gamut of the colored layers of a plurality of colors are not changed, the size of the electrode is not changed, and the backlight is provided. Has the advantage that the desired whiteness can be obtained without adjusting the illumination light of the backlight and without changing the signal processing circuit such as a driver IC for driving the liquid crystal layer. In addition, since it is not necessary to change the size of the electrodes, it is not necessary to adjust the pixel capacity for each color.

  In another aspect of the present invention, the liquid crystal device includes a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between a first substrate and a second substrate, and the first substrate includes an electrode for driving the liquid crystal layer. In addition, the second substrate includes a plurality of colored layers, and a pixel region is formed in a region where the electrode and the colored layer overlap, at least of the first substrate and the second substrate. On the other hand, in the colored layer of the plurality of colors, the pixel region is located at a position overlapping with a part of the colored layer of the predetermined color from an end of the electrode corresponding to the colored layer of the predetermined color. An end portion of the electrode corresponding to another colored layer different from the predetermined color is provided at a position where a light shielding layer is provided extending inside and overlaps a part of another colored layer different from the predetermined color. The light shielding layer extended into the pixel region from the end of the electrode corresponding to the colored layer of the predetermined color It is provided in a different area from that of the light-shielding layer provided to extend in al the pixel region.

  The liquid crystal device includes a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between a first substrate and a second substrate. The first substrate includes an electrode for driving the liquid crystal layer, and the second substrate includes a plurality of colored layers. A pixel region serving as a display unit is formed in a region where the electrode and the colored layer overlap.

  In particular, at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate, and in a position overlapping a part of the colored layer of the predetermined color among the colored layers of the plurality of colors, the colored layer of the predetermined color A light-shielding layer is provided extending from the end of the corresponding electrode into the pixel region, and at a position overlapping with a part of another colored layer different from the predetermined color, another color different from the predetermined color is provided. The light shielding layer extended into the pixel region from the end of the electrode corresponding to the layer is different from the light shielding layer provided to extend into the pixel region from the end of the electrode corresponding to the colored layer of the predetermined color. It is provided in area.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to change the ratio of the amount of light transmitted through the colored layer of the predetermined color and the other colored layer different from the predetermined color. In a preferred example, the light shielding layer preferably has a square, circular or elliptical planar shape. As a result, it is possible to easily adjust the white balance (whiteness) of white light obtained by mixing primary color light transmitted through a plurality of colored layers. Moreover, according to this configuration, when the color material, chromaticity, and color gamut of the colored layers of a plurality of colors are not changed, the size of the electrode is not changed, and the backlight is provided. Has the advantage that the desired whiteness can be obtained without adjusting the illumination light of the backlight and without changing the signal processing circuit such as a driver IC for driving the liquid crystal layer. In addition, since it is not necessary to change the size of the electrodes, it is not necessary to adjust the pixel capacity for each color.

In a preferred example, the colored layers of the plurality of colors include the colored layers of each color of blue, red, and green, and overlap a part of the colored layers of the colors of blue, red, and green. If the area of the light shielding layer in the pixel region, and the _{S B,} S R, _{S G,} respectively, wherein said _{S B} and the _{S R S G is, S B <S R <S} G, S B < It is preferable to satisfy any one of S _R = S _G , S _B <S _G <S _R , and S _B = S _G = S _R. Thereby, desired whiteness can be obtained according to the specification.

  In one aspect of the liquid crystal device, the second substrate has a light shielding film made of a resin material or a metal material at least at a position partitioning each of the colored layers, and the light shielding layer includes the second light shielding layer. The substrate is integrally formed continuously in the pixel region using the same material as the light shielding film. Thereby, the light shielding layer can be continuously formed integrally in the pixel region by the same material in the same process as the light shielding film. Therefore, the process can be simplified as compared with the case where the light shielding layer and the light shielding film are separately formed in separate processes.

  In another aspect of the above liquid crystal device, the second substrate has a light-shielding film made of a resin material or a metal material at least at a position partitioning each of the colored layers, and the light-shielding layer includes the second light-shielding layer. The substrate is formed separately from the light shielding film using the same material as the light shielding film. Thereby, the light shielding layer can be formed separately from the light shielding film by the same material in the same process as the light shielding film. Therefore, the process can be simplified as compared with the case where the light shielding layer and the light shielding film are separately formed in separate processes.

  In another aspect of the liquid crystal device, the light shielding layer has a configuration in which the colored layers of at least two colors among the colored layers of the plurality of colors are stacked on the second substrate.

  In another aspect of the above liquid crystal device, the first substrate has another light-shielding film (for example, various wirings) made of a metal material, and the light-shielding layer is formed on the first substrate. It is formed using the same material as the light shielding film. Thereby, the light shielding layer can be formed of the same material in the same process as other light shielding films. Therefore, the process can be simplified as compared with the case where the light shielding layer and the other light shielding film are separately formed in independent processes.

  In another aspect of the liquid crystal device, the liquid crystal layer has negative dielectric anisotropy, and the electrode includes a plurality of island-shaped electrode portions formed in an island shape, and each of the island-shaped electrode portions. A connecting portion that electrically connects the liquid crystal, and the liquid crystal is disposed at a position corresponding to substantially the center of the island-shaped electrode portion in either one of the first substrate and the second substrate. A slit or protrusion for controlling the alignment of liquid crystal molecules in the layer is provided, and the light shielding layer has a larger area than the slit or the protrusion in a planar region, and is provided at a position overlapping the slit or the protrusion. ing. According to this configuration, even if light leakage or the like occurs due to the shape of the slit or protrusion, the slit or protrusion is shielded from light by the light shielding layer, so that the display quality can be prevented from deteriorating.

  In still another aspect of the present invention, an electronic apparatus including the liquid crystal device as a display unit can be configured.

  Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In each of these drawings, the scale of each layer and each member is different in order to make each layer and each member recognizable on the drawing.

[First Embodiment]
The configuration of the liquid crystal device according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. The liquid crystal device according to the first embodiment is an example of an active matrix liquid crystal device using a thin film transistor (hereinafter abbreviated as “TFT”) as a switching element.

(Configuration of electrical equivalent circuit of liquid crystal device)
First, the configuration of an electrical equivalent circuit 50 of the liquid crystal device according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of an electrical equivalent circuit 50 including a plurality of pixel regions D arranged in a matrix that forms an image display region of the liquid crystal device according to the first embodiment.

  In the liquid crystal device according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1, a plurality of pixel regions (regions surrounded by a rectangular broken line) D arranged in a matrix that forms an image display region are provided with a pixel electrode 5 and the pixel. TFTs 30 which are switching elements for driving and controlling the electrodes 5 are respectively formed, and the data lines 6a to which image signals are supplied are electrically connected to the source regions 30s of the TFTs 30 (see also FIG. 2). . Image signals S1, S2,..., Sn to be written to the data line 6a are supplied line-sequentially in this order, or are supplied for each group to a plurality of adjacent data lines 6a. Further, the scanning line 3a is electrically connected to the gate electrode 30g (see also FIG. 2) of the TFT 30, and the scanning signals G1, G2,..., Gm are pulsed at a predetermined timing with respect to the plurality of scanning lines 3a. Are applied in a line sequential manner. The pixel electrode 5 is electrically connected to the drain region 30d (see also FIG. 2) of the TFT 30, and the image signal S1 supplied from the data line 6a is turned on by turning on the TFT 30 serving as a switching element for a certain period. , S2,..., Sn are written at a predetermined timing. Image signals S1, S2,..., Sn written to the liquid crystal via the pixel electrode 5 are held for a certain period with the common electrode 11 (see FIG. 3) described later. The liquid crystal modulates light by changing the orientation and order of the molecular assembly according to the applied voltage level, thereby enabling gradation display. Here, in order to prevent the held image signal from leaking, a storage capacitor 70 is added in parallel with the liquid crystal capacitor formed between the pixel electrode 5 and the common electrode 11. The wiring 3b is a capacitance line.

(Planar configuration of TFT array substrate)
Next, the planar configuration of the TFT array substrate 91 that constitutes the liquid crystal device of the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing a planar configuration of the TFT array substrate 91 corresponding to the six pixel regions D. FIG. In the first embodiment, in the color filter substrate 92 arranged to face the TFT array substrate 91, the position corresponding to each of the 1 × 3 pixel regions D adjacent in the extending direction of the scanning line 3a Blue (B), green (G), and red (R) colored layers 16B, 16G, and 16R (see FIGS. 2 and 4) are arranged in this order. However, in the present invention, there is no limitation on the order of arrangement. In the following description, when referring to a colored layer regardless of color, it is simply referred to as “colored layer 16”, and when referring to a colored layer by distinguishing colors, it is referred to as “colored layer 16R” or the like.

  As shown in FIG. 2, on the TFT array substrate 91, TFTs 30 and pixel electrodes 5 are formed corresponding to the intersections between the data lines 6a and the scanning lines 3a, and the pixel electrodes 5 are provided in a matrix. . Here, the pixel electrode 5 includes a plurality of island-shaped island-shaped electrode portions 5a, 5b, and 5c having corners that are curved and each of the island-shaped electrode portions 5a, 5b, and 5c. And an electrically connected connection portion 5s. In the present invention, the island-like electrode portions 5a, 5b, and 5c may have a planar shape such as a polygon or a circle. Further, the island-like electrode portion 5a and the island-like electrode portion 5c are formed of transparent electrodes made of ITO (Indium-Tin-Oxide) or the like, and the regions where the island-like electrode portions 5a and 5c are disposed are respectively transmissive. The first and second transmissive display areas T1 and T2 are displayed. On the other hand, the island-like electrode portion 5b located between the island-like electrode portion 5a and the island-like electrode portion 5c is formed of a reflective metal (for example, aluminum, silver, or a metal film containing these as a main component). It is a reflective electrode, and the island-like electrode portion 5b is a reflective display region R where reflective display is performed. In the lower layer of the island-like electrode portion 5 b having reflectivity, the capacitor line 3 b is provided so as to extend in a direction substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the pixel electrode 5. In the first embodiment, each pixel electrode 5 and the data line 6a arranged so as to surround each pixel electrode 5 and the area where the scanning line 3a is formed are one pixel area D, which is arranged in a matrix. Each pixel region D has a structure capable of displaying R, G, and B colors.

  The data line 6a is electrically connected to a source region 30s, which will be described later, of a semiconductor layer made of, for example, a polysilicon film constituting the TFT 30, and the pixel electrode 5 is a drain region 30d, which will be described later, of the semiconductor layer. Is electrically connected. Further, in the semiconductor layer, the scanning line 3a is disposed so as to face the channel region, and the scanning line 3a functions as the gate electrode 30g in a portion facing the channel region.

  The pixel electrode 5 and the TFT 30 are electrically connected to each other at the island-like electrode portion 5b disposed in the reflective display region R through the wiring portion 34 and the contact hole 7 led out from the drain region 30d side. Is planned. In other words, the wiring portion 34 is formed so as to extend in the longitudinal direction of the pixel electrode 5 from the approximate center of the island-like electrode portion 5c disposed in the second transmissive display region T2, and is located in the reflective display region R. It is electrically connected through a contact hole 7 at a substantially central portion of the electrode portion 5b. In the present invention, the electrical connection method of the pixel electrode 5 and the TFT 30 is not limited to the above-described configuration, and the formation positions of the wiring portion 34 and the capacitor line 3b are not limited to the above-described configuration.

(Cross-sectional configuration corresponding to the pixel region of the liquid crystal device)
Next, a cross-sectional configuration corresponding to one pixel region D of the liquid crystal device according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross-sectional configuration of one pixel region D along the cutting line AA ′ of FIG.

  In the liquid crystal device 100 according to the first embodiment, the initial alignment state exhibits a vertical alignment between the TFT array substrate 91 disposed on the opposite side to the observation side and the color filter substrate 92 disposed opposite thereto. The liquid crystal layer 50 made of liquid crystal having negative dielectric anisotropy is sandwiched.

  First, the cross-sectional configuration of the TFT array substrate 91 corresponding to FIG. 3 is as follows.

  The TFT array substrate 91 has a role of supporting a plurality of constituent elements, and includes a substrate body 10 made of a translucent material such as quartz or glass. On the inner surface of the substrate body 10 on the liquid crystal layer 50 side, scanning lines 3a, capacitor lines 3b, and the like are formed. A first insulating layer 37 is formed on the inner surface of the substrate body 10, and the scanning lines 3 a and the capacitor lines 3 b are covered with the first insulating layer 37. A wiring portion 34 extending from the drain region 30d side of the TFT 30 is routed on the inner surface of the first insulating layer 37 so as to extend from the scanning line 3a side to the reflective display region R side. A second insulating layer 38 is formed on the inner surface of the first insulating layer 37, and the wiring part 34 is covered with the second insulating layer 38. A third insulating layer 39 is formed on the inner surface of the second insulating layer 38. On the inner surface of the third insulating layer 39 corresponding to the reflective display region R, minute irregularities for appropriately scattering light are formed, and the inner surface of the third insulating layer 39 having the minute irregularities. An island-like electrode portion 5b as a reflective electrode is formed on the top. For this reason, the island-shaped electrode portion 5b has a shape reflecting the minute irregularities of the third insulating layer 39, and the light reflected by the island-shaped electrode portion 5b is appropriately scattered.

  A substantially rectangular island-shaped electrode portion 5a is formed on the inner surface of the third insulating layer 39 corresponding to the first transmissive display area T1, and corresponds to the second transmissive display area T2. On the inner surface of the third insulating layer 39, a substantially rectangular island-shaped electrode portion 5c is formed. The electrical connection between the island-shaped electrode portion 5a disposed in the first transmissive display area T1 and the island-shaped electrode section 5b disposed in the reflective display region R forms a part of the island-shaped electrode section 5a. This is illustrated by the connecting portion 5s. That is, in this example, the connecting portion 5s of the island-shaped electrode portion 5a and a part of the island-shaped electrode portion 5b are provided so as to partially overlap, and the island-shaped electrode portion 5a and the island-shaped electrode portion 5b are electrically connected. Connected. In addition, the electrical connection between the island-shaped electrode portion 5c disposed in the second transmissive display region T2 and the island-shaped electrode portion 5b disposed in the reflective display region R is a part of the island-shaped electrode portion 5c. The connecting portion 5s forming That is, in this example, the connection part 5s of the island-like electrode part 5c and the part of the island-like electrode part 5b are provided so as to partially overlap, and the island-like electrode part 5c and the island-like electrode part 5b are electrically connected. Connected. In the present invention, the electrical connection method between the island-shaped electrode portion 5a or the island-shaped electrode portion 5c and the island-shaped electrode portion 5b is not limited to the configuration described above.

  In addition, a contact hole 7 penetrating through the third insulating layer 39 and the second insulating layer 38 is formed in a substantially central portion of the island-shaped electrode portion 5b. The island-like electrode part 5 b is electrically connected to the wiring part 34 through the contact hole 7. Therefore, the electrical connection between the TFT 30 and the pixel electrode 5 is made by dividing the first and second transmissive display regions T1 and T2 by the wiring portion 34 and the contact hole 7 derived from the drain region 30d of the TFT 30. It is made in the island-shaped electrode portion 5b of the reflective display region R. A vertical alignment film 42 having a vertical alignment is formed on the inner surfaces of the pixel electrode 5 and the third insulating layer 39. On the other hand, on the outer surface opposite to the liquid crystal layer 50 side of the substrate body 10, a retardation plate (¼ wavelength plate) 17, a polarizing plate 18, and a backlight 19 as an illumination device are arranged in this order. Yes. The backlight 19 is preferably a point light source such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode) or a combination of a linear light source such as a cold cathode fluorescent tube and a light guide plate.

  Next, the cross-sectional configuration of the color filter substrate 92 corresponding to FIG. 3 is as follows.

  The color filter substrate 92 has a role of supporting a plurality of constituent elements, and includes a substrate body 25 made of a translucent material such as quartz or glass. On the inner surface of the substrate body 25 on the liquid crystal layer 50 side, the colored layers 16B, 16G, and 16R (G colored layer 16G in FIG. 3) and the light shielding layers 80 and 81 are provided. It has been.

  The colored layers 16B, 16G, and 16R for the respective colors B, G, and R are provided at positions corresponding to the pixel region D (see also FIG. 4).

  The light shielding layer 80 is formed of a resin material, a metal material, or the like having a light shielding property, and is provided corresponding to a position partitioning each pixel region D.

  The light shielding layer 81 has an island shape, is formed separately from the light shielding layer 80 by the same material in the same process as the light shielding layer 80, and is colored layers 16B, 16G, and 16R of B, G, and R colors. Covered with The light shielding layer 81 is provided at a position overlapping with a part of the colored layer 16 of at least one color in the pixel region D among the colored layers 16 of each color of B, G, and R. In the first embodiment, the island-shaped light shielding layer 81 is provided at a position overlapping each part of the colored layers 16G and 16R, and the illumination light from the backlight 19 passes through the colored layers 16 of B, G, and R colors. Although it has a role for adjusting the whiteness (white balance) of the mixed light (white light) obtained by transmitting, this point will be described later.

  An overcoat layer 48 is provided on the inner surface of the colored layer 16 to protect the colored layer 16 from chemicals and the like during the manufacturing process of the color filter substrate 92. The overcoat layer 48 is made of a transparent resin such as an acrylic resin. In the present invention, it is not essential to provide the overcoat layer 48. Each thickness dt of the liquid crystal layer 50 corresponding to each of the first and second transmissive display regions T1 and T2 on the inner surface of the overcoat layer 48 and at least at a position corresponding to the reflective display region R; A layer thickness adjusting layer 45 for making the thickness dr of the liquid crystal layer 50 corresponding to the reflective display region R substantially different is formed. The layer thickness adjusting layer 45 is made of a transparent resin such as an acrylic resin. In the first embodiment, due to the presence of the layer thickness adjusting layer 45, the thickness dr of the liquid crystal layer 50 in the reflective display region R is changed to the thickness dt of the liquid crystal layer 50 in the first and second transmissive display regions T1 and T2. Can be made smaller. Accordingly, the retardation in the reflective display region R (product of the thickness dr of the liquid crystal layer 50 and the refractive index anisotropy Δn of the liquid crystal) and the retardation (liquid crystal layer 50 in each of the first and second transmissive display regions T1 and T2). The product of the thickness dt of the liquid crystal and the refractive index anisotropy Δn of the liquid crystal) can be made close to or substantially equal to each other, thereby improving the contrast.

  A common electrode 11 made of ITO or the like is formed on the inner surfaces of the overcoat layer 48 and the layer thickness adjusting layer 45. Here, the common electrode 11 is provided with alignment control means for controlling the alignment of the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 50. The orientation control means is provided at a position corresponding to the substantially central portion of the island-like electrode portions 5a, 5b, and 5c formed on the TFT array substrate 10 side in the common electrode 11, and as a specific configuration thereof, This is due to the protrusion 13 made of a dielectric. In the present invention, the orientation control means may be a slit that opens a region of the common electrode 11 corresponding to the substantially central portion of the island-like electrode portions 5a, 5b, and 5c, instead of the protrusions 13. . On the inner surfaces of the common electrode 11 and the protrusion 13, a vertical alignment film 12 having a vertical alignment is formed. On the other hand, on the outer surface of the substrate body 25 opposite to the liquid crystal layer 50 side, a retardation plate (¼ wavelength plate) 14 and a polarizing plate 15 are arranged in this order.

  In the liquid crystal device 100 having the above configuration, when a voltage is applied between the TFT array substrate 91 and the color filter substrate 92, an electric field corresponding to the voltage is formed in the liquid crystal layer 50 between the two substrates. Each of the island-shaped electrode portions 5a, 5b, and 5c is formed in a substantially rectangular shape, and the common electrode 11 on the side of the color filter substrate 92 that faces the island-shaped electrode portions 5a, 5b, and 5c is formed with protrusions 13 as alignment control means. The alignment state of the liquid crystal molecules is controlled radially about the approximate center of each of the island-like electrode portions 5a, 5b, and 5c. Thereby, in the liquid crystal device 100 according to the first embodiment, the viewing angle dependency is suppressed, and a wide viewing angle can be achieved.

  When the reflective display is performed in the liquid crystal device 100 of the first embodiment, the external light that has entered the liquid crystal device 100 from the observation side travels along the path Lr shown in FIG. The light passes through the formed region, is reflected by the island-like electrode portion 5b, which is a reflective electrode located below the colored layer 16, passes through the colored layer 16 again, and is emitted onto the display screen. Thereby, the display image which shows a predetermined hue and brightness is visually recognized by the observer. On the other hand, when transmissive display is performed in the liquid crystal device 100, the illumination light emitted from the backlight 19 travels along the path Lt shown in FIG. 3, and passes through the pixel electrode 5, the colored layer 16 and the like for observation. To the person. In this case, the illumination light has a predetermined hue and brightness by passing through the colored layer 16. Thus, a desired color display image is visually recognized by the observer.

(White balance adjustment method)
Next, with reference to FIGS. 2 and 4, a method for adjusting white balance (whiteness) in the liquid crystal device 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the liquid crystal device 100 taken along the cutting line BB ′ of FIG. 2, and in particular, the liquid crystal device 100 cut at a position passing through an island-shaped light shielding layer 81 having a role of adjusting white balance. FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the color filter substrate 92 has an island-shaped light shielding layer 81 that is formed separately from the light shielding layer 80 by the same material in the same process as the light shielding layer 80. In the example of the first embodiment, the island-shaped light shielding layer 81 has a circular planar shape, and is smaller than each area of the island-shaped electrode portions 5a and 5c. In general, each of the G and R colors has a high luminance, and the B color has a low luminance, so that the island-shaped light-shielding layer 81 has the first and second transmissive displays in the G pixel region D. The first and second regions in the pixel region D of R color are provided at positions corresponding to the regions T1 and T2 and at a position overlapping the substantially central portion of the G colored layer 16 in plan view. Are provided at positions corresponding to each of the transmissive display areas T1 and T2 and at a position overlapping with the substantially central portion of the colored layer 16 of R color in a plane, and provided in the pixel area D of B color. Not.

  In the present invention, the setting position of the light shielding layer 81 with respect to the pixel region D of each color of B, G, and R is not limited to the configuration example of the first embodiment. That is, in the present invention, the island-shaped light shielding layer 81 is provided at a position overlapping with a part of the colored layer 16 of at least one color in the pixel region D among the colored layers 16 of the colors B, G, and R. Just do it. Therefore, the island-shaped light-shielding layer 81 is located at a position corresponding to each of the first and second transmissive display regions T1 and T2 in the B-color pixel region D, and substantially at the center of the B-color coloring layer 16B. Or a colored layer of each color of B, G, R at a position corresponding to the reflective display region R in the pixel region D of each color of B, G, R You may provide in the position which overlaps with the approximate center part of 16B, 16G, and 16R planarly.

  As a result, when the liquid crystal device 100 is driven, when a part of the illumination light incident on the liquid crystal layer 50 side from the backlight 19 passes through the pixel region D of each color of R and G, the pixel region of each color of R and G D is shielded by an island-shaped light shielding layer 81 provided at a position corresponding to each of the first and second transmissive display areas T1, T2, and is transmitted through the colored layers 16R and 16G of the R and G colors. The amount of each primary color light obtained is suppressed. For this reason, white light having a predetermined whiteness is obtained by mixing the suppressed primary color light of R and G and the primary color light obtained by transmitting through the colored layer 16B of B color. It is done.

  Under this configuration, island-shaped electrode portions 5a and 5c provided at positions corresponding to the first and second transmissive display regions T1 and T2 in the pixel regions D of the colors R and G are formed in an island shape. When the light shielding layer 81 shields light by about 17.5%, the whiteness of the white light can be further increased as compared with the comparative example in which the island-shaped light shielding layer 81 is not provided at all. Specifically, in the comparative example, the white coordinate of the white light is (X, Y) = (0.324, 0.341) as the color coordinate of the CIE chromaticity diagram. In the configuration example of one embodiment, the white coordinate of the white light is (X, Y) = (0.311, 0.322) as the color coordinate of the CIE chromaticity diagram. Here, under this configuration, no change in color coordinate / change in color gamut occurred in the pixel area D of each color of B, G, and R.

  As described above, in the present invention, among the colored layers 16 of B, G, and R colors, the light shielding layer having a predetermined area at a position overlapping with a part of the colored layer 16 of at least one color in the pixel region D. 81 is provided in an island shape. According to this configuration, when the island-shaped light shielding layer 81 is formed, the ratio of the amount of light transmitted through the colored layer 16 of at least one color can be changed by changing the area of the island-shaped light shielding layer 81. It becomes. As a result, it is possible to easily adjust the white balance (whiteness) of white light obtained by mixing primary color light transmitted through the colored layers 16 of B, G, and R colors. Moreover, according to this configuration, without changing the color material, chromaticity, and color gamut of the colored layer 16 of each color of B, G, and R, and without changing the size of the pixel electrode 5, Further, there is an advantage that desired whiteness can be easily obtained without adjusting the luminance of the illumination light of the backlight 19 and without changing the signal processing circuit such as a driver IC for driving the liquid crystal layer 50. Have. Further, since it is not necessary to change the size of the pixel electrode 5, it is not necessary to adjust the pixel capacity for each of B, G, and R colors.

In a preferred example, when the areas of the light shielding layer 81 in the pixel region D overlapping with the colored layers 16B, 16G, and 16R of the respective colors B, G, and R are S _B , S _R , and S _G , respectively, S _B , S _R and S _G are any of S _B <S _R <S _G , S _B <S _R = S _G , S _B <S _G <S _R , S _B = S _G = S _R It is preferable to satisfy the relationship. Thereby, desired whiteness can be obtained according to the specification.

  In the first embodiment of the present invention, the color filter substrate 92 has a light-shielding layer (light-shielding film) 80 made of a resin material or a metal material at least at a position where each colored layer 16 is partitioned, and has an island-shaped light shielding. The layer 81 is formed using the light shielding layer 80 in the color filter substrate 92. That is, the island-shaped light shielding layer 81 is formed separately from the light shielding layer 80 by the same material in the same process as the light shielding layer 80. Thereby, compared with the case where the light shielding layer 80 and the light shielding layer 81 are formed in a separate process separately, the process can be simplified.

  In the first embodiment of the present invention, the alignment of the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 50 is arranged at the position corresponding to the approximate center of the island-like electrode portions 5a, 5b, and 5c on the color filter substrate 92 side. Protrusions 13 for control are provided, and the island-shaped light shielding layer 81 has a larger area than the protrusions 13 in a planar region and is provided at a position overlapping the protrusions 13. As a result, even if light leakage or the like occurs due to the shape of the protrusion 13, the protrusion 13 is shielded by the island-shaped light shielding layer 81, so that the display quality can be prevented from deteriorating.

  In the first embodiment, the island-shaped light shielding layer 81 is provided on the color filter substrate 92 side. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and in the present invention, the island-shaped light shielding layer 81 is provided on the element substrate 91 side. It doesn't matter if you do. In this case, since various metal films having a light shielding property, for example, various wirings such as the source line 3a, are provided on the element substrate 91 side, the island-shaped light shielding layer 81 is provided on the element substrate in order to simplify the process. In 91, it is preferable to form in the same process using the said metal film (light-shielding film).

[Second Embodiment]
The configuration of the liquid crystal device according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. The liquid crystal device according to the second embodiment is an example of an active matrix driving type liquid crystal device using a thin film diode (hereinafter abbreviated as “TFD”) as a switching element. Note that in the second embodiment, elements that are the same as in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

(Equivalent circuit configuration of liquid crystal device)
First, the configuration of the electrical equivalent circuit 51 of the liquid crystal device according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 5 is a configuration diagram of an electrical equivalent circuit 51 including a plurality of pixel regions D arranged in a matrix that configures an image display region of the liquid crystal device according to the second embodiment.

  In the liquid crystal device according to the second embodiment shown in FIG. 5, a plurality of pixel regions D arranged in a matrix constituting the image display region are provided with a pixel electrode 55 and a switching element for driving and controlling the pixel electrode 55. Each TFD 31 is formed, and a data line 32 to which an image signal is supplied is electrically connected to one end side of the TFD 31. The image signals S1, S2,..., Sn to be written to the data lines 32 are supplied line-sequentially in this order, or are supplied for each group to a plurality of adjacent data lines 32. In addition, the scanning signals G1, G2,. The pixel electrode 55 is electrically connected to the other end of the TFD 31, and the liquid crystal layer 50 is interposed between the pixel electrode 55 and the scanning line 27. By turning on the TFD 31 that is a switching element for a certain period, the image signals S1, S2,..., Sn supplied from the data line 32 are written at a predetermined timing. The predetermined level image signals S1, S2,..., Sn written to the liquid crystal layer 50 through the pixel electrode 55 are held between the scanning lines 27 for a certain period. The liquid crystal modulates light by changing the orientation and order of the molecular assembly according to the applied voltage level, thereby enabling gradation display.

(Planar structure of TFD array substrate)
Next, the planar configuration of the TFD array substrate that constitutes the liquid crystal device of the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 6 is a plan view showing a planar configuration of the TFD array substrate 93 corresponding to the six pixel regions D. FIG. In FIG. 6, for convenience of explanation, the positions of the scanning lines 27 (regions surrounded by the broken lines in FIG. 6) provided on the color filter substrate 94 (see FIG. 8) disposed to face the TFD array substrate 93 are also shown. I am going to show it. Further, in the second embodiment, in the color filter substrate 94 arranged to face the TFD array substrate 93, the positions corresponding to the 1 × 3 pixel regions D adjacent in the extending direction of the scanning line 27 are The colored layers 16B, 16G, and 16R (see FIGS. 6 and 9) of blue (B), green (G), and red (R) are arranged in this order. However, in the present invention, there is no limitation on the order of arrangement. FIG. 7 is an enlarged plan view of an essential part of the broken line area E1 in FIG. 6 and shows a connection structure between the TFD 31 and the pixel electrode 55. FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 6, on the TFD array substrate 93, TFDs 31 and pixel electrodes 55 are formed corresponding to the intersections of the data lines 32 and the scanning lines 27, and the pixel electrodes 55 are provided in a matrix. . Here, the pixel electrode 55 includes a plurality of island-shaped island-shaped electrode portions 55a, 55b, and 55c each having a substantially rectangular shape with corners curved, and each of the island-shaped electrode portions 55a, 55b, and 55c. And an electrically connected connection portion 55s. In the present invention, the island-shaped electrode portions 55a, 55b, and 55c may have a planar shape such as a polygon or a circle. The island-shaped electrode portions 55a, 55b, and 55c are formed of transparent electrodes made of ITO or the like. Of the island-shaped electrode portions 55a, 55b, and 55c, the regions where the island-shaped electrode portions 55a and 55c are disposed are first and second transmissive display regions T1 and T2, respectively. On the other hand, the region where the island-like electrode portion 55b is disposed between the first transmissive display region T1 and the second transmissive display region T2 extends in a direction substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the pixel electrode 55. A reflective film 23 having reflectivity is provided, and the region is a reflective display region R. Here, the reflective film 23 is preferably formed of, for example, aluminum, silver, or a metal film containing these as a main component. In the second embodiment, a region between adjacent data lines 32 provided so as to extend in the longitudinal direction of the pixel electrode 55 and the scanning line 27 is one pixel region D, which is arranged in a matrix. Each of the pixel areas D is configured to be capable of displaying R, G, and B colors.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the TFD 31 includes a first TFD 31 a and a second TFD 31 b. The first TFD 31a and the second TFD 31b are formed by anodizing the island-shaped first metal film 322 mainly composed of tantalum tungsten and the like, and the surface of the first metal film 322. It has an insulating film 323 that is an anodized film and second metal films 316 and 336 that are formed on the surface and spaced apart from each other. Among these, the second metal films 316 and 336 are obtained by patterning the same conductive film such as chromium, and the former second metal film 316 is used for electrical connection with the island-shaped electrode portion 55c. The latter second metal film 336 is branched from the data line 32 in a T shape.

  Here, among the TFDs 31, the first TFD 31 a becomes the second metal film 336 / insulating film 323 / first metal film 322 in order from the data line 32 side, and is made of metal / insulator / metal. Due to the structure, the current-voltage characteristic is nonlinear in both positive and negative directions. On the other hand, the second TFD 31b becomes a first metal film 322 / insulating film 323 / second metal film 316 in order from the data line 32 side, and has a structure opposite to that of the first TFD 31a. . Therefore, the current-voltage characteristic of the second TFD 31b is obtained by making the current-voltage characteristic of the first TFD 31a point-symmetric with respect to the origin. As a result, since the TFD 31 has a configuration in which two TFD elements are connected in series in opposite directions, the current-voltage nonlinear characteristics are symmetric in both positive and negative directions compared to the case where one TFD element is used. become.

  The pixel electrode 55 and the TFD 31 are electrically connected to each other in the island-shaped electrode portion 55c through a contact hole 47a provided at a corner position of the island-shaped electrode portion 55c disposed in the second transmissive display region T2. Connections are made. However, in the present invention, the electrical connection between the TFD 31 and the pixel electrode 55 is not limited to the configuration described above.

(Cross-sectional configuration corresponding to the pixel region of the liquid crystal device)
Next, a cross-sectional configuration corresponding to one pixel region D of the liquid crystal device according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross-sectional configuration of one pixel region D along the cutting line CC ′ of FIG.

  The liquid crystal device 200 according to the second embodiment includes a liquid crystal layer made of liquid crystal whose initial alignment state is vertical alignment between the TFD array substrate 93 disposed on the observation side and the color filter substrate 94 disposed opposite thereto. 50 has the structure clamped.

  First, the cross-sectional configuration of the TFD array substrate 93 corresponding to FIG. 8 is as follows.

  The TFD array substrate 93 includes a substrate body 10 that has a role of supporting a plurality of components. A data line 32 (see FIG. 9), a TFD 31 (see FIG. 6), a light shielding layer 82, an insulating layer 47 made of a transparent resin, and the like are formed on the inner surface of the substrate body 10. The TFD 31 and the light shielding layer 82 are covered with an insulating layer 47.

  The light shielding layer 82 has an island shape and is formed of a light shielding resin material or metal material. Among the colored layers 16 of B, G, and R in the color filter substrate 94 described later. , At a position overlapping with a part of the colored layer 16 of at least one color. In FIG. 8, the island-shaped light shielding layer 82 is provided at a position overlapping a part of the colored layer 16G. In the second embodiment, the island-shaped light shielding layer 82 is provided at a position overlapping each part of the colored layers 16G and 16R, and the illumination light from the backlight 19 passes through the colored layers 16 of B, G, and R colors. Although it has a role for adjusting the whiteness (white balance) of the mixed light (white light) obtained by transmitting, this point will be described later.

  A pixel electrode 55 is formed on the inner surface of the insulating layer 47 and in each pixel region D. The island-shaped electrode portion 55a is provided at a position corresponding to the first transmissive display region T1, and the island-shaped electrode portion 55c is provided at a position corresponding to the second transmissive display region T2. The electrode portion 55b is provided at a position corresponding to the reflective display region R. Further, the electrical connection between the island-shaped electrode portion 55a disposed in the first transmissive display area T1 and the island-shaped electrode section 55b disposed in the reflective display region R is the same as the island-shaped electrode section 55a and the island-shaped electrode. On the inner surface of the insulating layer 47 located between the portions 55b, the connection portion 55s is provided, and the island-shaped electrode portion 55c disposed in the second transmissive display region T2 and the reflective display region R are disposed. The electrical connection with the island-shaped electrode portion 55b is achieved via the connection portion 55s on the inner surface of the insulating layer 47 located between the island-shaped electrode portion 55c and the island-shaped electrode portion 55b.

  As shown in FIG. 6, a contact hole 47a that penetrates a part of the insulating layer 47 is formed at the corner position of the island-shaped electrode portion 55c, and the island-shaped electrode portion 55b passes through the contact hole 47a. Are electrically connected to the TFD 31 and the data line 32, respectively. A vertical alignment film 42 having a vertical alignment is formed on the inner surface of the pixel electrode 55 and the like. On the other hand, a retardation plate 17 and a polarizing plate 18 are arranged in this order on the outer surface of the substrate body 10 opposite to the liquid crystal layer 50 side.

  Next, the cross-sectional configuration of the color filter substrate 94 corresponding to FIG. 8 is as follows.

  The color filter substrate 94 includes a substrate body 25 having a role of supporting a plurality of components. On the inner surface of the substrate body 25, colored layers 16B, 16G, and 16R (G colored layer 16G in FIG. 8), a scattering layer 24, a light shielding layer 83, and the like are provided. .

  The scattering layer 24 is formed of a transparent resin material, and minute unevenness for appropriately scattering light is formed on the surface thereof. The scattering layer 24 is provided at a position corresponding to at least the reflective display region R. The light shielding layer 83 is formed of a resin material, a metal material, or the like having a light shielding property, and is provided corresponding to a position partitioning each pixel region D.

  A reflective film 23 having reflectivity is provided on the inner surface of the scattering layer 24. The reflective film 23 has a shape reflecting the minute irregularities of the scattering layer 24, and the light reflected by the reflective film 23 is appropriately scattered. The colored layer 16 is provided on each inner surface of the substrate body 25 and the reflective film 23 in each pixel region D. The thickness dt of the liquid crystal layer 50 corresponding to each of the first and second transmissive display regions T1 and T2 and the reflection on at least the position corresponding to the reflective display region R on the inner surface of the colored layer 16 A layer thickness adjusting layer 46 for making the thickness dr of the liquid crystal layer 50 corresponding to the display region R substantially different is provided. In the second embodiment, due to the presence of the layer thickness adjusting layer 46, the thickness dr of the liquid crystal layer 50 in the reflective display region R is changed to the thickness dt of the liquid crystal layer 50 in the first and second transmissive display regions T1 and T2. Can be made smaller. Therefore, the retardation in the reflective display region R and the retardation in each of the first and second transmissive display regions T1 and T2 can be brought close to or substantially equal to each other, thereby improving the contrast.

  A scanning line (scanning electrode) 27 made of ITO or the like is formed on each inner surface of the coloring layer 16 and the layer thickness adjusting layer 46. As shown in FIG. 6, the scanning line 27 has a stripe shape when seen in a plan view, and overlaps a plurality of pixel regions D arranged in a direction substantially orthogonal to the extending direction of the data line 32. Is provided. Here, the scanning line 27 is provided with an alignment control means for controlling the alignment of the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 50. The orientation control means is provided at a position corresponding to the substantially central portion of the island-like electrode portions 55a, 55b, and 55c formed on the TFD array substrate 93 side in the scanning line 27. As a specific configuration thereof, This is due to the slit 27a having an opening in the region of the scanning line 27 corresponding to the substantially central portion of the island-shaped electrode portions 55a, 55b, and 55c. In the present invention, the orientation control means may be provided with a protrusion made of a dielectric material in a region corresponding to the substantially central portion of the island-like electrode portions 55a, 55b, and 55c, instead of the slit 27a. A vertical alignment film 12 having a vertical alignment is formed on the inner surface of the scanning lines 27 and the like. On the other hand, on the outer surface opposite to the liquid crystal layer 50 side of the substrate body 25, the phase difference plate 14, the polarizing plate 15, and the backlight 19 are arranged in this order.

  In the liquid crystal device 200 having the above configuration, when a voltage is applied between the TFD array substrate 93 and the color filter substrate 94, an electric field corresponding to the voltage is formed in the liquid crystal layer 50 between the two substrates. Each of the island-shaped electrode portions 55a, 55b, and 55c is formed in a substantially rectangular shape, and a slit 27a as an orientation control means is formed in the scanning line 27 on the color filter substrate 94 side facing the island-shaped electrode portions 55a, 55b, and 55c. The alignment state of the liquid crystal molecules is controlled radially around the approximate center of each of the island-shaped electrode portions 55a, 55b, and 55c. Thereby, in the liquid crystal device 200 according to the second embodiment, the viewing angle dependency is suppressed, and a wide viewing angle is possible.

  When reflection type display is performed in the liquid crystal device 200 of the second embodiment, external light that enters the liquid crystal device 200 from the observation side travels along the path Lr shown in FIG. The light passes through the formed region, is reflected by the reflective film 23 located below the colored layer 16, passes through the colored layer 16 again, and is emitted onto the display screen. Thereby, the display image which shows a predetermined hue and brightness is visually recognized by the observer. On the other hand, when transmissive display is performed in the liquid crystal device 200, the illumination light emitted from the backlight 19 travels along the path Lt shown in FIG. 8, and passes through the pixel electrode 55, the colored layer 16 and the like for observation. To the person. In this case, the illumination light has a predetermined hue and brightness by passing through the colored layer 16. Thus, a desired color display image is visually recognized by the observer.

(White balance adjustment method)
Next, with reference to FIGS. 6 and 9, a method for adjusting white balance (whiteness) in the liquid crystal device 200 according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the liquid crystal device 100 taken along the cutting line DD ′ of FIG. 6, and in particular, the liquid crystal device 200 cut at a position passing through the island-shaped light shielding layer 82 having the role of adjusting white balance. FIG.

  Here, the white balance adjustment method of the second embodiment is the same as the white balance adjustment method of the first embodiment described above. However, in the first embodiment, a light shielding layer having a role of adjusting the white balance is provided. In contrast to being provided on the color filter substrate 92 side, in the second embodiment, the light shielding layer is provided on the element substrate 93 side.

  Specifically, in the second embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 9, the element substrate 93 includes an island-shaped light shielding layer 82 formed of a light shielding resin material or metal material. In the example of the second embodiment, the island-shaped light shielding layer 82 has a circular planar shape, and is smaller than each area of the island-shaped electrode portions 5a and 5c. In general, each of the G and R colors has a high luminance, and the B color has a low luminance, so that the island-shaped light-shielding layer 82 has the first and second transmissive displays in the G pixel region D. The first and second regions in the pixel region D of R color are provided at positions corresponding to the regions T1 and T2 and at a position overlapping the substantially central portion of the G colored layer 16 in plan view. Are provided at positions corresponding to each of the transmissive display areas T1 and T2 and at a position overlapping with the substantially central portion of the colored layer 16 of R color in a plane, and provided in the pixel area D of B color. Not.

  In the present invention, the setting position of the light shielding layer 82 with respect to the pixel regions D of B, G, and R colors is not limited to the configuration example of the second embodiment. In other words, in the present invention, among the colored layers 16 of B, G, and R colors, the light shielding layer 82 is provided in an island shape at a position that overlaps a part of the colored layer 16 of at least one color in the pixel region D. Just do it. Therefore, the island-shaped light-shielding layer 82 is located at a position corresponding to each of the first and second transmissive display regions T1 and T2 in the B-color pixel region D, and at a substantially central portion of the B-color colored layer 16B. Or a colored layer of each color of B, G, R at a position corresponding to the reflective display region R in the pixel region D of each color of B, G, R You may provide in the position which overlaps with the approximate center part of 16B, 16G, and 16R planarly.

  Thus, when the liquid crystal device 200 is driven, a part of the illumination light incident on the liquid crystal layer 50 side from the backlight 19 passes through the pixel region D of each color of R and G, and the pixel region of each color of R and G D is shielded by an island-shaped light shielding layer 82 provided at a position corresponding to each of the first and second transmissive display areas T1 and T2, and is transmitted through the colored layers 16R and 16G of the R and G colors. The amount of each primary color light obtained is suppressed. For this reason, white light having a predetermined whiteness is obtained by mixing the suppressed primary color light of R and G and the primary color light obtained by transmitting through the colored layer 16B of B color. It is done.

  As described above, in the present invention, among the colored layers 16 of each color B, G, and R in the pixel region D, a predetermined position is provided at a position overlapping with a part of the colored layer 16 of at least one color in the pixel region D. A light shielding layer 82 having an area is provided in an island shape. According to this configuration, when the island-shaped light shielding layer 82 is formed, the ratio of the amount of light transmitted through the colored layer 16 of at least one color can be changed by changing the area of the island-shaped light shielding layer 82. It becomes. As a result, it is possible to easily adjust the white balance (whiteness) of white light obtained by mixing primary color light transmitted through the colored layers 16 of B, G, and R colors. Moreover, according to this configuration, without changing the color material, chromaticity, and color gamut of the colored layer 16 of each color of B, G, and R, and without changing the size of the pixel electrode 5, Further, there is an advantage that desired whiteness can be easily obtained without adjusting the luminance of the illumination light of the backlight 19 and without changing the signal processing circuit such as a driver IC for driving the liquid crystal layer 50. Have. Further, since it is not necessary to change the size of the pixel electrode 5, it is not necessary to adjust the pixel capacity for each of B, G, and R colors.

In a preferred example, when the areas of the light-shielding layer 82 in the pixel region D that overlaps part of the colored layers 16B, 16G, and 16R of the colors B, G, and R are S _B , S _R , and S _G , S _B , S _R and S _G are any of S _B <S _R <S _G , S _B <S _R = S _G , S _B <S _G <S _R , S _B = S _G = S _R It is preferable to satisfy the relationship. Thereby, desired whiteness can be obtained according to the specification.

  In the second embodiment of the present invention, the alignment of the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 50 is arranged at the position corresponding to the approximate center of the island-like electrode portions 5a, 5b, and 5c on the color filter substrate 94 side. A slit 27a for control is provided, and the island-shaped light shielding layer 82 has a larger area than the slit 27a in a planar region, and is provided at a position overlapping the slit 27a. Thus, even if light leakage or the like occurs due to the shape of the slit 27a, the slit 27a is shielded by the island-shaped light shielding layer 82, so that the display quality can be prevented from deteriorating.

  In the second embodiment, the island-shaped light shielding layer 82 is provided on the element substrate 93 side. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and in the present invention, the island-shaped light shielding layer 82 is provided on the color filter substrate 94 side. It doesn't matter if you do. In this case, since the light shielding layer 83 having a light shielding property is provided on the color filter substrate 94 side, the island-shaped light shielding layer 82 and the light shielding layer 83 on the color filter substrate 94 side are provided in order to simplify the process. It is preferable to use the same material in the same process.

[Modification]
In the first and second embodiments described above, the island-shaped light-shielding layer 81 or 82 is formed on each plane of the island-shaped electrode portion 5a (or 55a), 5c (or 55c), the protrusion 13, or the slit 27a. Although it was formed in a circular planar shape according to the shape, the shape of the light shielding layer 81 or 82 is not limited in the present invention. For example, in the present invention, the island-shaped light shielding layer 81 or 82 may adopt various plane shapes such as a quadrangle, an ellipse, and a rhombus.

  For example, in the liquid crystal device 100 or 200, the protrusion 13 or the slit 27a as the liquid crystal alignment regulating means may be formed in a cross-shaped planar shape in addition to a circular shape. In this case, the light shielding layer 81 or 82 may conceal the cross-shaped planar projection 13 or slit 27a in case light leakage occurs in the projection 13 or slit 27a due to its shape. It is preferable to be formed in a possible shape. In a liquid crystal device having a TN (Twisted Nematic) type liquid crystal, the pixel electrode is often formed in a rectangular shape. In this case, the light shielding layer 81 or 82 may be formed in a rectangular planar shape in accordance with the shape of the pixel electrode. That is, the light shielding film may be formed so as to extend inward from the end of the pixel electrode along at least a part of the contour of the pixel electrode.

  In addition, at least one of the TFD array substrate 93 and the color filter substrate 92, or at least one of the TFT array substrate 91 and the color filter substrate 94, and a predetermined color among the colored layers 16 of R, G, and B colors. In a position overlapping with a part of the colored layer 16, a light shielding layer is provided extending from the end of the pixel electrode 5 or 55 corresponding to the colored layer 16 of the predetermined color into the pixel region D. In a position overlapping with a part of another colored layer 16 different from the color, the light shielding extended into the pixel region D from the end of the pixel electrode 5 or 55 corresponding to the other colored layer 16 different from the predetermined color. The layer may be provided with a different area from the light shielding layer provided in the pixel region D from the end of the pixel electrode 5 or 55 corresponding to the colored layer 16 of the predetermined color. According to this configuration, it is possible to change the ratio of the amount of light transmitted through the colored layer 16 of the predetermined color and the other colored layer 16 different from the predetermined color. As a result, it is possible to easily adjust the white balance (whiteness) of white light obtained by mixing primary color light transmitted through the colored layers 16 of R, G, and B colors.

  In this configuration, the color filter substrate 92 or 94 has a light-shielding film made of a resin material or a metal material at a position that partitions at least each of the colored layers 16 of each color of R, G, and B. The color filter substrate 92 or 94 may be integrally formed continuously in the pixel region D using the same material as the light shielding film. Accordingly, the light shielding layer can be continuously formed in the pixel region D integrally with the same material in the same process as the light shielding film. Therefore, the process can be simplified as compared with the case where the light-shielding layer and the light-shielding film are separately formed in independent processes.

  In addition, since the liquid crystal device 100 or 200 according to the first or second embodiment employs a vertical alignment method, the pixel electrode 5 or 55 has a comb-shaped planar shape. Due to the shape of the pixel electrode 5 or 55, the end side of the island-like electrode portion 5a (or 55a) of the first transmissive display region T1 (near the region A5) located on the reflective display region R side. In addition, on the end side (near the region A6) of the island-like electrode portion 5c (or 55c) of the second transmissive display region T2 located on the reflective display region R side, an electric field generated when driving the liquid crystal is particularly generated. In some cases, the liquid crystal molecules are not uniform and poor alignment of the liquid crystal molecules may occur. Therefore, in a modified example, as shown in FIG. 10A, the light shielding layer 81 or 82 is formed in a bowl-like planar shape, and the light shielding layer 81 or 82 is located in the region A5. (Or 55a) and the end portion side of the island-like electrode portion 5c (or 55c) located in the region A6, respectively. Thus, even when liquid crystal molecules are poorly aligned near the regions A5 and A6 and light leakage occurs when the liquid crystal is driven in the liquid crystal device 100 or 200, the light leakage has a bowl-like planar shape. It is possible to prevent light leakage from being covered with the light shielding layer 81 or 82 having the light shielding layer. For the same purpose, in another modified example, as shown in FIG. 10B, the light shielding layer 81 or 82 is formed in an annular plane shape, and the light shielding layer 81 or 82 is formed in the first shape. Part of the outer shape side of the island-shaped electrode portion 5a (or 55a) of the transmissive display region T1 and part of the outer shape side of the island-shaped electrode portion 5c (or 55c) of the second transmissive display region T2. You may arrange in a position.

  In the present invention, the light shielding layer having a role of adjusting white balance (whiteness) may be configured by laminating a plurality of colored layers 16. For example, this modification will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross-sectional configuration of a color filter substrate 92x according to a modification corresponding to FIG.

  In this modified example, the colored layers 16B, 16G, and 16R of the respective colors B, G, and R are provided at positions corresponding to the pixel region D, as in the first and second embodiments described above. In addition, the colored layers 16B, 16G, and 16R of each color of B, G, and R are partitioned by a light shielding layer 87 formed by laminating the colored layers 16 of any two colors. The light shielding layer 85 is provided at a position corresponding to the first transmissive display area T1 in the G color pixel area D and at a position overlapping the substantially central portion of the G color coloring layer 16G in a plane. Although not shown in the drawing, the light shielding layer 85 is in a position corresponding to the second transmissive display region T2 in the G color pixel region D and in plan view with the substantially central portion of the G color colored layer 16G. It is provided at the overlapping position. The light shielding layer 85 has a structure in which a G colored layer 16G and a B colored layer 16B are laminated. Further, the light shielding layer 86 is provided at a position corresponding to the first transmissive display area T1 in the R color pixel area D and at a position overlapping the substantially central portion of the R color coloring layer 16R. Yes. Although illustration is omitted, the light shielding layer 86 is planarly positioned at a position corresponding to the second transmissive display region T2 in the R color pixel region D and substantially at the center of the R colored layer 16R. It is provided at the overlapping position. The light shielding layer 86 has a structure in which an R colored layer 16R and a B colored layer 16B are laminated. With these configurations, the same functions and effects as those of the first and second embodiments described above can be obtained.

  In the first and second embodiments, the present invention is applied to a transflective liquid crystal device. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the present invention is applied to a reflective or transmissive liquid crystal device. It doesn't matter.

  In addition, various modifications can be made in the present invention without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[Electronics]
Next, specific examples of the liquid crystal devices 100 and 200 according to the first and second embodiments of the present invention or electronic devices to which various modifications can be applied will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, an example in which the liquid crystal devices 100 and 200 according to the first and second embodiments of the present invention are applied to a display unit of a portable personal computer (so-called notebook personal computer) will be described. FIG. 12A is a perspective view showing the configuration of this personal computer. As shown in the figure, the personal computer 710 includes a main body 712 having a keyboard 711 and a display 713 to which the liquid crystal devices 100 and 200 according to the present invention are applied as a panel.

  Next, an example in which the liquid crystal devices 100 and 200 of the present invention are applied to a display unit of a mobile phone will be described. FIG. 12B is a perspective view showing the configuration of this mobile phone. As shown in the figure, a cellular phone 720 includes a plurality of operation buttons 721, a reception port 722, a transmission port 723, and a display unit 724 to which the liquid crystal devices 100 and 200 of the present invention are applied.

  Note that examples of electronic devices to which the liquid crystal devices 100 and 200 of the present invention can be applied include a liquid crystal television, a view, in addition to the personal computer shown in FIG. 12A and the cellular phone shown in FIG. Examples include a finder type / monitor direct-view type video tape recorder, a car navigation device, a pager, an electronic notebook, a calculator, a word processor, a workstation, a videophone, a POS terminal, and a digital still camera.

1 is an electrical equivalent circuit diagram of a liquid crystal device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a planar configuration of the TFT array substrate according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to one pixel region of the liquid crystal device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view passing through a plurality of first transmissive display areas of the liquid crystal device according to the first embodiment. The electrical equivalent circuit schematic of the liquid crystal device which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention. The top view which shows the planar structure of the TFD array substrate which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. The principal part top view which shows the electrical connection structure of a pixel electrode and a TFD element. Sectional drawing corresponding to one pixel area | region of the liquid crystal device which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. Sectional drawing which passes along the some 1st transmissive display area | region of the liquid crystal device which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. The top view which shows the planar shape of the light shielding layer which concerns on various modifications. Sectional drawing of the color filter board | substrate containing the light shielding layer which concerns on a modification. Examples of electronic devices to which the liquid crystal device of the present invention is applied are shown.

Explanation of symbols

  5a, 5b, 5c, 55a, 55b, 55c Island-shaped electrode portion, 5, 55 Pixel electrode, 30 TFT, 31 TFD, 81, 82, 85, 86 Light-shielding layer, 50 Liquid crystal layer, 91 TFT array substrate, 93 TFD array Substrate, 92, 92x, 94 color filter substrate, 100, 200 liquid crystal device, D pixel area, T1 first transmissive display area, T2 second transmissive display area, R reflective display area

Claims (10)

A liquid crystal layer is sandwiched between the first substrate and the second substrate;
The first substrate includes an electrode for driving the liquid crystal layer, and the second substrate includes a plurality of colored layers.
A pixel region is formed in a region where the electrode and the colored layer overlap,
At least one of the first substrate and the second substrate, and at a position overlapping with a part of the colored layer of at least one color in the pixel region among the colored layers of the plurality of colors. A liquid crystal device, wherein a light shielding layer having a predetermined area is provided in an island shape. A liquid crystal layer is sandwiched between the first substrate and the second substrate;
The first substrate includes an electrode for driving the liquid crystal layer, and the second substrate includes a plurality of colored layers.
A pixel region is formed in a region where the electrode and the colored layer overlap,
At least one of the first substrate and the second substrate, and a color of the predetermined color is provided at a position overlapping with a part of the color layer of the predetermined color among the color layers of the plurality of colors A light shielding layer extending from the end of the electrode corresponding to the layer into the pixel region,
The light shielding layer extended into the pixel region from the end of the electrode corresponding to another colored layer different from the predetermined color at a position overlapping with a part of another colored layer different from the predetermined color However, the liquid crystal device is provided with an area different from that of the light-shielding layer provided to extend from the end portion of the electrode corresponding to the colored layer of the predetermined color into the pixel region. The second substrate has a light shielding film made of a resin material or a metal material at least at a position partitioning each of the colored layers,
3. The liquid crystal device according to claim 2, wherein the light shielding layer is integrally formed continuously in the pixel region using the same material as the light shielding film on the second substrate. . The second substrate has a light shielding film made of a resin material or a metal material at least at a position partitioning each of the colored layers,
The liquid crystal device according to claim 1, wherein the light shielding layer is formed on the second substrate separately from the light shielding film using the same material as the light shielding film.   The said light shielding layer has the structure by which the said colored layer of at least 2 color was laminated | stacked among the said colored layers of the said several color in the said 2nd board | substrate. Liquid crystal device. The first substrate has another light shielding film made of a metal material,
3. The liquid crystal device according to claim 1, wherein the light shielding layer is formed on the first substrate using the same material as the other light shielding film. The colored layers of the plurality of colors include the colored layers of each color of blue, red, and green,
When the area of the light shielding layer in the pixel region overlapping with part of the colored layer of each color of blue, red, and green is S _B , S _R , and S _G , respectively
S _B , S _R and S _G are S _B <S _R <S _G , S _B <S _R = S _G , S _B <S _G <S _R , S _B = S _G = S _R The liquid crystal device according to claim 1, wherein any one of the relationships is satisfied.   The liquid crystal device according to claim 1, wherein the light shielding layer has a quadrangular, circular, or elliptical planar shape. The liquid crystal layer has a negative dielectric anisotropy;
The electrode has a plurality of island-shaped electrode portions formed in an island shape, and a connection portion that electrically connects each of the island-shaped electrode portions,
A slit or protrusion for controlling the alignment of liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer at a position corresponding to the approximate center of the island-shaped electrode portion, which is one of the first substrate and the second substrate. Is provided,
2. The liquid crystal device according to claim 1, wherein the light shielding layer has a larger area than the slit or the protrusion in a planar region, and is provided at a position overlapping the slit or the protrusion.   An electronic apparatus comprising the liquid crystal device according to claim 1 as a display unit.

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