JP2020506525A - Light guide plate assembly including optical manipulation features - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a light guide plate assembly that includes a glass substrate, a prism layer, and at least one modification layer that includes an inorganic material or an inorganic-organic hybrid material. At least one light source may be optically coupled to the end face of the glass substrate to provide an optical assembly. Further, a display device and a lighting device including such a light guide plate and an optical assembly are disclosed.

Description

Cross-reference of related applications

  This application claims priority from US Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62 / 453,075, filed Feb. 1, 2017, pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 35 Section 119. And incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

  The present disclosure relates generally to light guide plate assemblies and display devices or lighting devices that include such assemblies, and more specifically to glass light guide plates that include at least one optical manipulation feature.

  Liquid crystal displays (LCDs) are often used in various electronic devices such as, for example, mobile phones, laptops, electronic tablets, televisions, and computer monitors. However, LCDs may have limitations regarding brightness, contrast ratio, efficiency, and viewing angle compared to other display devices. For example, in order to compete with other display technologies, conventional LCDs require ongoing demands for higher contrast ratios, color gamut, and brightness while balancing power requirements and device size (eg, thickness). is there.

  LCDs may include a backlight unit (BLU) for producing light. This light can then be transformed, filtered, and / or polarized to produce the desired image. A BLU may be, for example, an edge-light type including a light source coupled to the edge of a light guide plate (LGP), or a backlight type including, for example, a two-dimensional array of light sources located behind an LCD panel. The backlight-type BLU may have an advantage that the dynamic contrast is improved as compared with the edge-light-type BLU. For example, a display with a backlit BLU can independently adjust the brightness of each LED to optimize the dynamic range of brightness across the image. This is commonly known as local dimming. However, in a backlit BLU, the light source can be positioned at a distance from the LGP to achieve the desired light uniformity and / or to avoid hot spots, thereby causing the display The overall thickness is larger than that of the edge light type BLU. In a conventional edge-lit BLU, the light from each LED can spread over a large area of LGP, so turning off individual LEDs or groups of LEDs has minimal effect on the dynamic contrast ratio. Can be

  The local dimming efficiency of the LGP can be increased, for example, by providing one or more microstructures on the surface of the LGP. For example, a plastic LGP, such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) LGP or methyl methacrylate styrene (MS) LGP, may be provided with surface microstructures (eg, microlenses) that can collimate or confine the light from each LED within a narrow band. . In this way, it may be possible to adjust the brightness of the light source along the edge of the LGP in order to increase the dynamic contrast of the display. If LEDs are mounted on both sides of the LGP, the brightness of the paired LEDs can be adjusted by creating a brightness gradient along the band of illumination, which can further improve dynamic contrast. .

  It may be advantageous to modify the LGP to improve the uniformity of the color and / or intensity of the light extracted from the LGP. For example, at least one surface of the LGP may be modified to include light extraction features that break total internal reflection (TIR) within the LGP. In some examples, the density of the light extraction features may increase with distance from the light source. Techniques for modifying the surface of the LGP to form microstructures and / or light extraction features include, for example, screen printing, inkjet printing, thermal imprinting, and laser imprinting. Laser imprinting can have certain advantages, for example, with respect to pattern control of patterning using software, reduced processing time, reproducibility, and manufacturing flexibility. Thermal imprinting can also have advantages in terms of improved control over feature shape, reproducibility, and high throughput.

  Glass LGPs can provide various improvements over plastic LGPs, for example, with respect to their low light attenuation, low coefficient of thermal expansion, and high mechanical strength. Therefore, it may be desirable to use glass as an alternative material for building LGPs to overcome various disadvantages associated with plastics. For example, manufacturing plastic LGPs that are large and thin enough to meet current consumer demands can be difficult due to their relatively poor mechanical strength and / or low stiffness. Also, plastic LGPs may require a larger gap between the light source and the LGP due to a high coefficient of thermal expansion, thereby reducing optical coupling efficiency and / or A display bezel may be required. In addition, plastic LGPs may have a tendency to discolor over time and / or to absorb moisture and expand more readily than glass LGPs.

  Due to the above advantages, many display manufacturers are replacing plastic LGP with glass LGP, for example, to produce thinner displays. However, the BLU may further include other polymer layers, such as, for example, a brightness enhancement film (BEF) or a light diffusing layer, which may have one or more of the above-mentioned disadvantages. Thus, it would be advantageous to provide a BLU stack with as few polymer components as possible, for example, by replacing at least one organic layer in the BLU with an inorganic or inorganic-organic hybrid layer. It would also be advantageous to provide a BLU comprising glass LGP and having at least one of improved local dimming efficiency, improved light uniformity, and / or improved light extraction efficiency.

The present disclosure, in various embodiments, relates to a light guide plate assembly that includes a glass substrate having a first major surface that is a light emitting surface, and a second major surface opposite the light guide surface, and an organic light guide plate. A prism layer comprising a material, an inorganic material, or an inorganic-organic hybrid material; and a first modifying layer disposed between the first major surface of the glass substrate and the prism layer. The first correction layer, an inorganic material or an inorganic - are those which may include organic hybrid material may have a lower refractive index n _M than the refractive index n _G of the glass substrate.

According to various embodiments, the refractive index n _M of the first modification layer may be one less than the refractive index n _P of the prism layer. The light guide plate assembly may further include, for example, at least one adhesive layer between the prism layer and the first modifying layer. In some embodiments, the refractive index n _A of the adhesive layer is lower than the refractive index n _P of the prism layer, and may be one higher than the refractive index n _M of the first modification layer. In other embodiments, the light guide plate assembly may not include an adhesive layer, for example, an inorganic or inorganic-organic hybrid prism layer may be provided directly on the first modifying layer.

According to certain embodiments, the light guide plate assembly is a second modification layer provided on a second major surface of the glass substrate, the second modification layer comprising an inorganic material or an inorganic-organic hybrid material. It may further include a layer. The refractive index n _{M ′} of the second modifying layer can be equal to or higher than the refractive index n _G of the glass substrate. The second modifying layer and / or the second major surface of the glass substrate may include at least one light extraction feature (eg, a plurality of light extraction features). The thickness of the first or second correction layer can be, for example, in the range of about 5 μm to about 100 μm.

Further, disclosed herein is a light guide plate assembly, wherein the light guide plate assembly comprises a glass substrate having a first major surface that is a light emitting surface and a second major surface opposite the glass substrate; And a prism layer provided on the first main surface of the first substrate. Prism layer, an inorganic material or an inorganic - are those which may include organic hybrid material may have a lower refractive index n _P than the refractive index n _G of the glass substrate. In some embodiments, the light guide plate assembly is a second modifying layer provided on a second major surface of the glass substrate, the second light modifying plate assembly comprising an inorganic material or an inorganic-organic hybrid material, wherein the glass substrate has a refractive index. It may include a second correction layer having a rate n _G equal or higher refractive index n _{M 'further.} According to a non-limiting embodiment, the second modification layer may include a plurality of light extraction features and / or microstructures. Exemplary microstructures may include a prism, a rounded prism, or a periodic or aperiodic array of lenticular lenses.

  Further, disclosed herein is an optical assembly that includes a light source optically coupled to an end face of any of the light guide plate assemblies disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the light source is

It may have an emission maximum angle theta _m satisfying. In other words, when the light source having the maximum light emission angle (θ _m ) is used, the refractive indices of the glass substrate and the first correction layer are expressed by the following formula:

Can be satisfied. Also disclosed herein are display devices, electronic devices, and lighting devices that include such light guide plates and optical assemblies.

  Additional features and advantages of the present disclosure will be set forth in the following detailed description, and will be in part obvious to those skilled in the art, or may be used to describe the following detailed description, claims, and appended claims. Recognized by performing the method as described herein, including the drawings.

  The above summary description and the following detailed description illustrate various embodiments of the present disclosure, and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and features of the claims. Please understand that. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate various embodiments of the present disclosure, and together with the description, serve to explain the principles and operation of the present disclosure.

  The following detailed description can be better understood when read in conjunction with the following drawings.

4 illustrates an exemplary configuration of a light guide plate assembly according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. 4 illustrates an exemplary configuration of a light guide plate assembly according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. 4 illustrates an exemplary configuration of a light guide plate assembly according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. 4 illustrates an exemplary configuration of a light guide plate assembly according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. 4 illustrates an exemplary configuration of a light guide plate assembly according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. 4 illustrates an exemplary configuration of a light guide plate assembly according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. 4 illustrates an exemplary microstructured surface according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure. 4 illustrates an exemplary microstructured surface according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure. 4 illustrates an exemplary microstructured surface according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure. 4 illustrates an exemplary microstructured surface according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

Disclosed herein is a light guide plate assembly that includes a glass substrate having a first major surface that is a light emitting surface, and a second major surface opposite the light major surface, and an organic material, an inorganic material, A prism layer comprising a material, or an inorganic-organic hybrid material, and a first modifying layer disposed between the first major surface of the glass substrate and the prism layer. The first correction layer, an inorganic material or an inorganic - are those which may include organic hybrid material may have a lower refractive index n _M than the refractive index n _G of the glass substrate. The light guide plate assembly may further include an adhesive layer and / or a second modifying layer.

Also disclosed herein is a light guide plate assembly, wherein the light guide plate assembly comprises a glass substrate having a first major surface that is a light emitting surface and a second major surface opposite to the first major surface, and a glass substrate. And a prism layer provided on the first main surface of the first substrate. Prism layer, an inorganic material or an inorganic - are those which may include organic hybrid material may have a lower refractive index n _P than the refractive index n _G of the glass substrate. The light guide plate assembly may further include a second correction layer. Further, disclosed herein is an optical assembly that includes a light source optically coupled to an end face of any of the light guide plate assemblies disclosed herein. As used herein, various devices including such light guide plates and optical assemblies (eg, display devices, lighting devices, electronic devices (eg, televisions, computers, phones, tablets, and other display panels), lighting fixtures, Also disclosed are solid-state lighting, electronic billboards, as well as other building elements.

  Various embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to FIGS. 1-6, which illustrate exemplary embodiments and aspects of a light guide plate assembly. The following summary is intended to provide an overview of the claimed device, and throughout this disclosure, various aspects will be more specifically described with reference to the non-limiting embodiments illustrated. State it. These embodiments are interchangeable within the context of the present disclosure.

  FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary light guide plate assembly 100 that includes a glass substrate 110, a prism layer 115, and a first modifying layer 120. The glass substrate 110 may have a first major surface 125 that is a light emitting surface, a light incident end surface 130, and a second major surface 135 opposite the first major surface 125. A first correction layer 120 may be provided on a first main surface 125 which is a light emitting surface of the glass substrate 110, and a prism layer 115 may be provided on the first correction layer 120. The first correction layer 120 may be disposed between the glass substrate 110 and the prism layer 115. The prism layer 115 may include an organic material, an inorganic material, or an inorganic-organic hybrid material. The first modification layer 120 may include an inorganic material or an inorganic-organic hybrid material. Materials suitable for the prism layer 115 and the first correction layer 120 will be described later in more detail.

  As used herein, the term "provided on" and variations thereof indicate that a component or layer is located on a particular surface and is in direct physical contact with that surface. Is intended. For example, the first modifying layer 120 may be on the first major surface 125 of the glass substrate 110 in direct physical contact with the surface (eg, with any additional layers or films disposed therebetween). Without being done). Therefore, the component A provided on the surface of the component B is in direct physical contact with the component B.

  In some embodiments, at least one light source 140 may be optically coupled to light incident end face 130 (eg, located adjacent to the end face). The term "optically coupled" as used herein is intended to indicate that a light source is located at the edge of the LGP to introduce light into the LGP. The light source can be optically coupled to the LGP, even though it is not in physical contact with the LGP. Additional light sources (not shown) may also be optically coupled to other end faces of the LGP (eg, adjacent or opposite end faces, etc.).

  As will be described in more detail below, a plurality of light extraction features 145 are formed on the second major surface 135 or in the matrix of the glass substrate 110 (eg, below the second major surface 135). obtain. A reflector 150 may be positioned adjacent the second major surface 135 of the glass substrate 110 to recycle light back to the light guide assembly 100.

  Referring to FIG. 2, the light guide plate assembly 100 may include a glass substrate 110 and a first correction layer 120 provided on a first main surface 125 that is a light emitting surface of the glass substrate 110. The prism layer 115 may be disposed adjacent to the first correction layer 120, for example, the first correction layer 120 may be disposed between the glass substrate 110 and the prism layer 115. . If necessary, an adhesive layer 155 may be disposed between the prism layer 115 and the first correction layer 120. For example, in some non-limiting embodiments, a first repair layer 120 is provided on a first major surface 125, an adhesive layer 155 is provided on the first repair layer 120, The prism layer 115 can be provided on the agent layer 155. In certain embodiments, the prism layer 115 may be laminated to the first modification layer 120 by an adhesive layer 155. The prism layer 115 may include an organic material, an inorganic material, or an inorganic-organic hybrid material. The first modification layer 120 may include an inorganic material or an inorganic-organic hybrid material.

  As used herein, the term "adjacent to" and variations thereof are intended to mean that a component or layer is located on or near a particular surface of a listed component, but not necessarily that component. It is intended to indicate that it need not be in direct physical contact with the surface. For example, in FIG. 1, the prism layer 115 is shown in direct physical contact with the first correction layer 120. However, in some embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, there may be other layers or films (eg, adhesive layer 155) or gaps between these two components. . In FIG. 1, the prism layer 115 is provided on the first correction layer 120. In FIG. 2, the prism layer 115 is arranged adjacent to the first correction layer 120.

  Thus, component A “disposed adjacent” on the surface of component B may or may not be in direct physical contact with component B. In some embodiments, components located adjacent to a surface may or may not be in direct physical contact with the surface. Similarly, component A “disposed between” component B and component C may be disposed between component B and component C, but not necessarily directly from these components. You do not need to be in contact with In certain embodiments, a first component disposed between a plurality of second components may be in direct physical contact with at least one of the second components.

  As will be described in more detail below, a plurality of light extraction features 145 are formed on the second major surface 135 or in the matrix of the glass substrate 110 (eg, below the second major surface 135). obtain. As in FIG. 1, a light source 140 may be disposed adjacent to the light incident end face 130 of the glass substrate 110 and a reflector 150 may be disposed adjacent to the second major surface 135 of the glass substrate 110.

  Referring to FIG. 3, the light guide plate assembly 100 includes a glass substrate 110, a first modification layer 120 provided on a first major surface 125 of the glass substrate 110, and a second major surface of the glass substrate. 135, a second correction layer 120 'provided on the first correction layer 120 (shown) or a prism layer disposed (not shown) adjacent to the first correction layer 120 115. The first correction layer 120 may be disposed between the glass substrate 110 and the prism layer 115. The prism layer 115 may include an organic material, an inorganic material, or an inorganic-organic hybrid material. The first modification layer 120 and the second modification layer 120 'may include an inorganic material or an inorganic-organic hybrid material.

  A light source 140 may be disposed adjacent to the light incident end surface 130 of the glass substrate 110, and a reflector 150 may be disposed adjacent to the second correction layer 120 '. According to further embodiments, a plurality of light extraction features 145 may be formed on or in the second correction layer 120 ', as described in more detail below.

  Referring to FIG. 4, the light guide plate assembly 100 may include a glass substrate 110 and a prism layer 115 provided on a first main surface 125 that is a light emitting surface of the glass substrate 110. The prism layer 115 may include an inorganic material or an inorganic-organic hybrid material, as described in more detail below. As will be described in more detail below, a plurality of light extraction features 145 are formed on the second major surface 135 or in the matrix of the glass substrate 110 (eg, below the second major surface 135). obtain. A light source 140 may be disposed adjacent to the light incident end face 130 of the glass substrate 110, and a reflector 150 may be disposed adjacent to the second main surface 135 of the glass substrate 110.

  5A and 5B show a side view of the light guide plate assembly 100 as viewed from an end surface 160 adjacent (eg, orthogonal) to the light incident surface 130 and a side view of the light guide plate assembly 100 as viewed from the light incident surface 130, respectively. Show. The light guide plate assembly 100 is provided on a glass substrate 110, a prism layer 115 provided on a first main surface 125 which is a light emitting surface of the glass substrate 110, and provided on a second main surface 135 of the glass substrate. And a second correction layer 120 '. As shown in FIGS. 5A-5B, the second repair layer 120 'may see a plurality of microstructures 165.

  As used herein, the terms “microstructure”, “having a microstructure”, and variations thereof, extend in a given direction (eg, parallel or perpendicular to the direction of light propagation) and have at least one One dimension (eg, height, width, etc.) of less than about 500 μm (eg, less than about 400 μm, less than about 300 μm, less than about 200 μm, less than about 100 μm, less than about 50 μm, or even smaller, such as about 10 μm to about 500 μm) It is intended to refer to surface relief features of the modifying layer that are within the range (including all ranges and partial ranges therebetween). In certain embodiments, the microstructures can have the same or different regular or irregular shapes within a given array.

  Although the configuration shown in FIGS. 5A-5B illustrates a second repair layer 120 ′ that includes a microstructure 165, in some embodiments, the second repair layer 120 ′ includes a microstructure 165. It should be understood that this need not be the case. Similarly, the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 is not described as having a second modification layer 120 'having a microstructure, but in a non-limiting embodiment, the second modification layer 120' It should be understood that 120 'may include a microstructure.

  The prism layer 115 and the second modification layer 120 'may include an inorganic material or an inorganic-organic hybrid material, as described in more detail below. A plurality of light extraction features 145 may be formed on or in the second correction layer 120 '. In some embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 5B, a light extraction feature 145 may be provided on a microstructure 165. A light source 140 may be located adjacent to the light entry end face 130 of the glass substrate 110, and a reflector 150 may be located adjacent to the second modifying layer 120 'for recycling light back to the light guide plate assembly 100.

  This can make it difficult to achieve local dimming (eg, by turning off one or more light sources), as light from light source 140 can spread immediately into light guide plate assembly 100. However, by providing one or more elongated microstructures in the direction of light propagation (indicated by the solid arrows in FIG. 5A), the light source can effectively illuminate only a narrow band of LGPs. It may be possible to limit the spread. The illuminated band may extend, for example, from the origin at the light entry end face 130 to a similar end point on the opposite end face 170. Thus, using various microstructure configurations, it may be possible to collimate light and provide 1D local dimming of at least a portion of light guide plate assembly 100 in a relatively efficient manner.

  In certain embodiments, the light guide plate assembly may be configured to be able to achieve 2D local dimming. For example, one or more additional light sources may be optically coupled to adjacent (eg, orthogonal) end faces (eg, one or both of end faces 160). One correction layer may include a microstructure extending in a light propagation direction, and another correction layer (not shown) may include a microstructure extending in a direction orthogonal to the light propagation direction. Thus, 2D local dimming can be achieved by selectively blocking one or more of the light sources along each end face.

  FIG. 5B generally shows microstructures 165 of the same size and shape evenly spaced at approximately the same pitch, but all microstructures in a given array are of the same size and / or shape and / or shape. It should be understood that they do not have to have spacing. Multiple combinations of microstructure shapes and / or sizes may be used, and such combinations may be arranged periodically or aperiodically. Further, while FIG. 5B shows a microstructure 165 having a lenticular profile, the second modifying layer 120 'may include any other suitable microstructure 165 having a different profile. For example, FIGS. 6A-6B show a microstructure including a prism 165A and a microstructure including a rounded prism 165B, respectively. As shown in FIG. 6C, the microstructure may also include a lenticular lens 165C. Of course, the depicted microstructures are merely exemplary, and are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims. Other microstructure shapes are possible and are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. Further, while FIGS. 6A-6C show regular (or periodic) arrays, irregular (or aperiodic) arrays can be used. For example, FIG. 6D is a SEM image of a microstructured surface that includes an array of aperiodic prisms.

  Also, the size and / or shape of the microstructure 165 can be varied depending on the desired light output and / or optical function of the light guide plate assembly 100. For example, different microstructure shapes can result in different local dimming efficiencies (also referred to as local dimming indices (LDI)). The local dimming index is described, for example, in Jung et al., “Local dimming design and optimization for edge-type LED backlight unit,” SID Symp. Dig. Tech. Papers, 42 (1), pp. 1430-1432 (June 2011 ) Can be determined using the method described in As a non-limiting example, an array of periodic prismatic microstructures can produce an LDI value of at most about 70%, while an array of periodic lenticular lenses can have an LDI value of at most about 83%. Can occur. Of course, the size and / or shape and / or spacing of the microstructures may be varied to achieve different LDI values. Also, different microstructure shapes may provide additional optical functions. For example, a prism array having a prism angle of 90 degrees will not only produce more efficient local dimming, but will also direct light partially perpendicular to the prism ridges due to ray recycling and redirection. Light can be collected in various directions.

  Referring to FIG. 6A, the prismatic microstructure 165A may be in a range of about 60 degrees to about 120 degrees (e.g., about 70 degrees to about 110 degrees, about 80 degrees to about 100 degrees, or about 90 degrees, and so on). , And partial ranges between them). Referring to FIG. 6C, the lenticular microstructure 165C may have any given shape within a semi-circular, semi-elliptical, parabolic, or other similar rounded shape (as indicated by the dashed line). May have the following cross-sectional shape. It should be noted that light extraction features are not shown in FIGS. 6A-6C for simplicity of illustration, but such features may be present in non-limiting embodiments.

Second correction layer 120 '(having a microstructure) may have a total thickness d ₂ and "lands" thickness t. The microstructure may include a peak p and a valley v, where the overall thickness corresponds to the height of the peak p and the land thickness may correspond to the height of the valley v. According to various embodiments, it may be advantageous to provide the second modification layer 120 'such that the land thickness t is zero or as close to zero as possible. If t is 0, the second modification layer 120 'may be discontinuous. For example, the land thickness t is in the range of 0 to about 50 μm (eg, about 1 μm to about 40 μm, about 2 μm to about 30 μm, about 5 μm to about 20 μm, or about 10 μm to about 15 μm, etc. Including the partial range between them). In a further embodiment, the overall thickness d2 of the _second modification layer 120 'is in the range of about 10 μm to about 100 μm (eg, about 20 μm to about 90 μm, about 30 μm to about 80 μm, about 40 μm to about 70 μm). Or about 50 μm to about 60 μm, including all ranges and partial ranges therebetween.

With continued reference to FIGS. 6A-6C, the microstructure may also have a width w, which may be varied as appropriate to achieve a desired aspect ratio. To correct the light output, the change of the land portion thickness t and total thickness d ₂ may also be used. In embodiments do not limit, the aspect ratio of the microstructure _{165 (w / [d 2 -t} ]) is in the range of from about 0.2 to about 8 (e.g., about 0.5 to about 7, about 1 To about 6, about 1.5 to about 5, about 2 to about 4, or about 2.5 to about 3, and the like, including all ranges and partial ranges therebetween. According to some embodiments, the aspect ratio ranges from about 2 to about 3 (e.g., about 2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6). , 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, or 3, including all ranges and partial ranges therebetween). The width w of the microstructure 165 is, for example, in the range of about 1 μm to about 500 μm (eg, about 10 μm to about 400 μm, about 20 μm to about 300 μm, about 30 μm to about 250 μm, about 40 μm to about 200 μm, or about 50 μm約 100 μm, etc., including all ranges and partial ranges therebetween. In addition, the microstructure 165 may have a length L that extends in a light propagation direction or a direction orthogonal to the light propagation (for example, see broken lines in FIGS. 6A to 6C). The length L of the microstructure 165 can vary as desired (eg, depending on the dimensions of the glass substrate 110). According to various embodiments, the microstructures can have one or more discontinuities along their length L or width w.

1 to 5, the general direction of light emission from the light source 140 is indicated by solid arrows. Light injected into the LGP may propagate along the length of the LGP due to total internal reflection (TIR) until it strikes the interface at an angle of incidence below the critical angle. Total internal reflection (TIR) means that light propagating in a first material having a first refractive index (eg, glass, plastic, etc.) has a second refractive index that is lower than the first refractive index. This is a phenomenon that can be completely reflected at an interface with a material (for example, air or the like). TIR can be expressed using Snell's law.
n ₁ sin (θ _i ) = n ₂ sin (θ _r )
This equation describes the refraction of light at the interface between two materials with different indices of refraction. According to Snell's law, n ₁ is the index of refraction of the first material, n ₂ is the index of refraction of the second material, and θ _i is the angle of incident light at the interface with respect to the normal to the interface (incident And θ _r is the refraction angle of the reflected light with respect to the perpendicular. When the refraction angle (θ _r ) is 90 degrees (for example, sin (θ _r ) = 1), Snell's law can be expressed as follows.
θ _c = θ _i = sin ⁻¹ (n ₂ / n ₁ )
The incident angle theta _i under these conditions can also be referred to as the critical angle theta _c. Light having a critical angle larger than the incident angle a (θ _i> θc) is totally reflected within the first material, while the light having a critical angle or less of the incident angle (θ _i ≦ θc) is transmitted through the first material I do.

For an exemplary interface between air (n ₁ = 1) and glass (n ₂ = 1.5), the critical angle (θ _c ) may be calculated as 42 degrees. Thus, if light propagating through the glass hits the air-glass interface at an incident angle greater than 42 degrees, all incident light will be reflected from the interface at an angle equal to the incident angle. If the reflected light encounters a second interface having the same refractive index relationship as the first interface, the light incident on the second interface is reflected at an angle that is also equal to the angle of incidence.

The term "refractive index" as used herein refers to the refractive index of a material measured near the peak of the response of the human eye (eg, about 550 nm). The refractive indices of the various components of the light guide plate assembly 100 are determined by the amount of light transmitted by the light guide plate assembly 100 in a direction perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the light emitting surface 125 of the glass substrate 110 (eg, toward an observer). May be selected to increase. For example, in the non-limiting embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-3, the first modifying layer 120 has a lower refractive index than the refractive index n _G of the glass substrate 110 and the refractive index n _P of the prism layer 115. It may have a n _M. In some embodiments, the refractive index n _P of the prism layer 115 may be equal to or higher than the refractive index n _G of the glass substrate 110. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer 155, if present (FIG. 2), is higher than the refractive index n _{M of} the first modifying layer 120 and higher than the refractive index n _P of the prism layer 115. It may have a lower refractive index _{n a.} Second correction layer 120 ', when present (Figure 3), the refractive index n _G equal or higher refractive index of the glass substrate 110 n _M' may have. In the non-limiting embodiment shown in FIGS. 4-5, the refractive index n _P of the prism layer 115 may be lower than the refractive index n _G of the glass substrate 110. Second correction layer 120 ', when present (Figure 5A~ Figure 5B), the refractive index _{n G} equal or higher refractive index of the glass substrate 110 n _M' may have.

According to various embodiments, the refractive index n _G of the glass substrate 110 is in a range from about 1.3 to about 1.8 (eg, from about 1.35 to about 1.7, from about 1.4 to about 1). .65, about 1.45 to about 1.6, or about 1.5 to about 1.55, including all ranges and partial ranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the first modifying layer 120 can have a lower refractive index than the refractive index of the glass substrate 110, for example, n _G is at least about 1% higher than n _M ( for example, at least about 2% less than _{n M,} at least about 3%, at least about 5%, at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, or at least about 25% higher (all ranges and between them It includes subranges, for example, from about 1% to about 25% higher than _{n M))} may be those. In a non-limiting embodiment, n _M ranges from about 1 to about 1.78 (eg, from about 1.1 to about 1.75, from about 1.2 to about 1.7, about 1.3). From about 1.6 to about 1.6, or from about 1.4 to about 1.5, including all ranges and partial ranges therebetween.

According to a further embodiment, the second modifying layer 120 '(with or without microstructure) may have a higher refractive index than that of the glass substrate 110, for example, n _{M 'is, n} of at least about 1% higher than the _G (e.g., at least about 2% less than _{n G,} of at least about 3%, at least about 5%, at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, or (including a partial range between all ranges and their, eg, n from about 1% to about 25% higher than _G) at least about 25% higher in the embodiment may be one. not limiting, n _{M ′} is in the range of about 1.32 to about 2.1 (eg, about 1.35 to about 2, about 1.4 to about 1.9, about 1.5 to about 1.8, or about 1.6 to about 1.7 mag, all ranges and parts between them According to a further embodiment, the second modifying layer 120 ′ may have a refractive index equal to or approximately equal to the refractive index of the glass substrate 110, for example, n _{M 'is} approximately within 1% _{n G} (e.g., within about 0.5% of _{n G,} within about 0.2%, or about 0.1% within such, all ranges and between them Including a partial range of

According to a particular embodiment, for example, when the prism layer 115 is provided on the first major surface 125 of the glass substrate 110, the prism layer 115 has a lower refractive index than that of the glass substrate 100. are those which may have, for example, _{n G} is at least about 1% higher than the _{n P} (e.g., at least about 2% than the _{n P,} at least about 3%, at least about 5%, at least about 10%, at least about 15% (including all ranges and subranges there between, for example, from about 1% to about 25% higher than the n _P) of at least about 20%, or at least about 25% higher can be one In some embodiments, for example, if the first modifying layer 120 is disposed between the prism layer 115 and the glass substrate 110, the prism layer 115 may Other are those which can have a refractive index higher than the refractive index of the first correction layer 120, for example, _{n P} is at least about 1% higher than _{n G} and / or _{n M} (e.g., _{n G} and / or at least about 2% less than _{n M,} at least about 3%, at least about 5%, at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, or at least about 25% higher (all ranges and between them (Eg, about 1% to about 25% higher than n _G and / or n _M. ) According to a further embodiment, the prism layer 115 includes a glass substrate 110 and / or those that may have a refractive index equal to or substantially equal to the refractive index of the first adjusting layer 120 and / or the second correction layer 120 ', for example, n _P is your n _G and / or n _M Beauty / or _'within about 1% (e.g., _{n G} and / or _{n M} and / or n _M' n _M within about 0.5%, within about 0.2%, or about 0.1% less, such as And including all ranges and partial ranges therebetween.

In some embodiments, light source 140 can be a Lambertian light source, such as a light emitting diode (LED). In certain embodiments, light source 140 may emit blue light, UV light, or near UV light (eg, about 100-500 nm). According to various embodiments, the maximum emission angle (θ _m ) of a light source (eg, an LED), as well as the refractive indices of the glass substrate and the first modifying layer, increase the efficiency of coupling light from the light source to the light guide plate assembly. It can be chosen to maximize. For example, for a given index of refraction n _G and n _M of the glass substrate and the first correction layer, the light source may be selected such that its maximum emission angle θ _m satisfies Equation (1) below.

Similarly, for a given maximum emission angle θ _m , the refractive indices of the glass substrate and the first modifying layer can be selected to satisfy equation (2) below.

As used herein, the term "maximum emission angle" is intended to refer to the maximum angle of emission relative to the normal to the emission source surface, e.g., where the angular distribution of the planar LED output is Lambertian. For example, the maximum emission angle can be about 80 degrees.

  Referring again to FIGS. 1-5, the first modification layer 120, the second modification layer 120 ', or the glass substrate 110 includes a plurality of light extraction features 145 formed on or below its surface. obtain. For example, a plurality of light extraction features 145 may be patterned on the first modification layer 120, the second modification layer 120 ′, or the second major surface 135 of the glass substrate 110. The light extraction features 145 may be distributed on the surface, for example, as texture features making up a roughened or raised surface, or the glass substrate 110, the first modifying layer 120, the second May be distributed all over or within a portion of the repair layer 120 '(eg, features due to laser damage). The light extraction features 145 may have any cross-sectional profile, and may be less than about 100 micrometers (μm) (eg, less than about 75 μm, less than about 50 μm, less than about 25 μm, less than about 10 μm, or even smaller, with the full range And at least one dimension (eg, width, height, length, etc.) that is in the range of, for example, about 1 μm to about 100 μm).

  In various embodiments, light extraction features 145 may include light scattering sites. According to various embodiments, the extraction features 145 can be patterned with a suitable density to produce a substantially uniform light output intensity across the light emitting surface 125 of the glass substrate 110. In certain embodiments, the density of the light extraction features 145 proximate to the light source 140 may be lower than the density of the light extraction features 145 at points further away from the light source 140, or vice versa. (Eg, a gradient from one end to the other, suitable for producing a desired light output distribution across the light guide plate assembly 100).

Suitable methods for generating such light extraction features include printing (eg, ink jet printing, screen printing, micro printing, etc.), texturing, mechanical roughening, etching, injection molding. , Coating, laser damage, or any combination thereof. The light extraction features 145 are described, for example, in International Application Nos. PCT / US2013 / 063622 and PCT / US2014 / 070771 which are co-continuous and have the same owner as the present application (each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety). (Incorporated in the specification). Examples not limiting of suitable methods are, for example, acid etching of the surface, surface coating with TiO _2, and also the laser damage of the substrate or layer by condensing the laser inside surface or in the matrix No.

Exemplary laser, Nd: YAG laser, CO ₂ the laser, and the like, without limitation. The operating parameters of the laser (eg, laser power, pulse duration, pulse energy, etc.) and other variables may vary depending on the desired light extraction feature profile. In some embodiments, the pulse duration is in the range of about 1 to about 1000 microseconds (μs) (eg, about 5 to about 500 μs, about 10 μs to about 200 μs, about 20 μs to about 100 μs, or about 30 μs to about 30 μs). About 50 μs, etc., including all ranges and partial ranges therebetween). Laser power is in the range of about 1 to about 100 Watts (W) (eg, about 5 to about 50 W, or about 10 to about 35 W, including the entire range and partial ranges therebetween). Can be The laser energy is, for example, in the range of about 0.01 to about 100 millijoules (mJ) (eg, about 0.1 to about 10 mJ, about 0.5 to about 5 mJ, or about 1 mJ to about 2 mJ, and the like; Including all ranges and partial ranges therebetween.

  Glass substrate 110 may have any desired size and / or shape suitable to produce a desired light distribution. In certain embodiments, major surfaces 125, 135 of glass substrate 110 may be planar or substantially planar and / or parallel. Also, in various embodiments, the first major surface and the second major surface can have a radius of curvature along at least one axis. Glass substrate 110 may include four edges, or may include more than four edges (eg, multi-sided polygons). In other embodiments, glass substrate 110 may include less than four edges (eg, a triangle). By way of non-limiting example, glass substrate 110 may include a rectangular, square, or rhombic sheet having four edges, but other shapes, including those having one or more curvilinear portions or edges. And configurations are also intended to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

  In certain embodiments, the glass substrate 110 is about 3 mm or less (eg, about 0.1 mm to about 2.5 mm, about 0.3 mm to about 2 mm, about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm, or about 0.7 mm (In the range of about to about 1 mm, including all ranges and partial ranges therebetween). Glass substrate 110 may include any material used in display devices known in the art, including aluminosilicate glass, alkali aluminosilicate glass, borosilicate glass, alkali borosilicate glass, aluminoborosilicate glass. , Alkali aluminoborosilicate glass, soda lime glass, or other suitable glass. Non-limiting examples of commercially available glass suitable for use as a glass light guide plate include, for example, Corning EAGLE XG® glass, Lotus® glass, Willow® glass, Iris ( (Trademark) glass, and Gorilla (registered trademark) glass.

Glass composition is not intended to some limited, _SiO 2 of about 50 mole% to about 90 mol%, 0 mol% to about 20 mole% of _Al 2 _O 3, 0 mole% to about 20 mol% of B ₂ O ₃ , 0 mol% to about 20 mol% of P ₂ O ₅ , and 0 mol% to about 25 mol% of R _x O, where R is Li, Na, K, Rb , Cs, and x is 2, or R is Zn, Mg, Ca, Sr, or Ba, and x is 1. In some _embodiments, whether it is _{R x O-Al 2 O 3} > 0, 0 < either a _{R x O-Al 2 O 3} <15, is x = 2, _and, R 2 O-Al ₂ O ₃ <15, R ₂ O—Al ₂ O ₃ <2, x = 2, and R ₂ O—Al ₂ O ₃ —MgO> −15, 0 < _{(R x O-Al 2 O} 3) < a 25, _{and, -11 <(R 2 O-} Al 2 O 3) < is 11, _{and, -15 <(R 2 O-} Al 2 O 3 - MgO) <either a 11, and / _or, -1 <(a _{R 2 O-Al 2 O 3} ) <2, _and, at _{-6 <(R 2 O-Al} 2 O 3 -MgO) <1 is there. In some embodiments, the glass comprises less than 1 ppm of each of Co, Ni, and Cr. In some embodiments, the concentration of Fe is <about 50 ppm, <about 20 ppm, or <about 10 ppm. In other embodiments, Fe + 30Cr + 35Ni <about 60 ppm, Fe + 30Cr + 35Ni <about 40 ppm, Fe + 30Cr + 35Ni <about 20 ppm, or Fe + 30Cr + 35Ni <about 10 ppm. In other embodiments, the glass is about 60 mole% to about 80 mol% of SiO _2, from about 0.1 mole% to about 15 mole% of _Al 2 _O 3, 0 mole% to about 12 mole% of _{B 2} O _3, comprises from about 0.1 mole% to about 15 mol% of _R 2 O, and from about 0.1 mole% to about 15 mole% of RO, wherein, R is Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs And x is 2 or R is Zn, Mg, Ca, Sr, or Ba, and x is 1.

In another embodiment, the glass composition comprises from about 65.79 mole% to about 78.17 mole% of SiO _2, from about 2.94 mole% to about 12.12 mole% _Al 2 _{O 3,} from about 0 mol % To about 11.16 mol% B ₂ O ₃ , about 0 mol% to about 2.06 mol% Li ₂ O, about 3.52 mol% to about 13.25 mol% Na ₂ O, about 0 mol% _K mole% to about 4.83 mol% 2 O, from about 0 mol% to about 3.01 mol% of ZnO, from about 0 mol% to about 8.72 mol% of MgO, from about 0 mol% to about 4. 24 mol% CaO, about 0 mol% to about 6.17 mol% SrO, about 0 mol% to about 4.3 mol% BaO, and about 0.07 mol% to about 0.11 mol% SnO. ₂ may be included.

In a further embodiment, the glass substrate 110, which may include a glass having a _R x _O / _Al 2 O ₃ ratio of 0.95 to 3.23, wherein, R is Li, Na, K, Rb , Cs, and x is 2. In a further embodiment, the glass is one that may have _R x _O / _Al 2 O ₃ ratio of 1.18 to 5.68, wherein, R is Li, Na, K, Rb, among Cs And x is 2 or R is Zn, Mg, Ca, Sr, or Ba, and x is 1. In a further embodiment, the value of _{R x O-Al 2 O 3} -MgO glass is -4.25～4.0, wherein any of R is Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs And x is 2. In a further embodiment, the glass is about 66 mole% to about 78 mol% of SiO _2, from about 4 mol% to about 11 mole% _Al 2 _{O 3,} about 4 mol% to about 11 mole% of _B 2 O _3, from about 0 mol% to about 2 mol% of _Li 2 O, from about 4 mol% to about 12 mol% of _Na 2 O, from about 0 mol% to about 2 mol% of _K 2 O, from about 0 mol% to about 2 mol% ZnO, about 0 mol% to about 5 mol% MgO, about 0 mol% to about 2 mol% CaO, about 0 mol% to about 5 mol% SrO, about 0 mol% to about 2 mol % of may include BaO, and about 0 mole% to about 2 mol% of SnO _2.

In a further embodiment, the glass substrate 110 is about 72 mole% to about 80 mol% of SiO _2, from about 3 mole percent to about 7 mole% _Al 2 _{O 3,} from about 0 mol% to about 2 mol% of B ₂ O ₃ , about 0 mol% to about 2 mol% Li ₂ O, about 6 mol% to about 15 mol% Na ₂ O, about 0 mol% to about 2 mol% K ₂ O, about 0 mol% About 2 mol% ZnO, about 2 mol% to about 10 mol% MgO, about 0 mol% to about 2 mol% CaO, about 0 mol% to about 2 mol% SrO, about 0 mol% to about 2 mol% of BaO, and may comprise from about 0 mole% to about 2 mole percent of the glass material containing SnO _2. In certain embodiments, the glass is about 60 mole% to about 80 mol% of SiO _2, from about 0 mole% to about 15 mole% _Al 2 _{O 3,} from about 0 mole% to about 15 mole% _B 2 O ₃ , and about 2 mol% to about 50 mol% of R _x O, wherein R is any one or more of Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs, and x Is 2 or R is Zn, Mg, Ca, Sr or Ba and x is 1 where Fe + 30Cr + 35Ni <about 60 ppm.

In some embodiments, the glass substrate 110 is less than 0.05, for example, in the range of about -0.005 to about 0.05, or in the range of about 0.005 to about 0.015 (e.g., about -0.005, -0.004, -0.003, -0.002, -0.001, 0, 0.001, 0.002, 0.003, 0.004, 0.005, 0.006 , 0.007, 0.008, 0.009, 0.010, 0.011, 0.012, 0.013, 0.014, 0.015, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, or 0.05). In other embodiments, the glass substrate can include a color shift of less than 0.008. According to certain embodiments, the glass substrate is less than about 4 dB / m (eg, less than about 3 dB / m) (eg, due to absorption and / or scattering losses) for wavelengths in the range of about 420-750 nm. Less than about 2 dB / m, less than about 1 dB / m, less than about 0.5 dB / m, less than about 0.2 dB / m, or even smaller, such as in the range of about 0.2 dB / m to about 4 dB / m. It may have attenuation alpha ₁ light).

Attenuation can be characterized by measuring the light transmission T _L (λ) of the input light source through a transparent substrate of length L and normalizing this transmission by the light source spectrum T ₀ (λ). The attenuation is in units of dB / m,
α (λ) = − 10 / L * log ₁₀ ( _TL (λ) / _TL (λ))
Where L is the length in meters and _TL (λ) and _TL (λ) are measured in radiometric units.

  In some embodiments, the glass substrate 110 can include glass that has been chemically strengthened, for example, by ion exchange. During the ion exchange process, ions in the glass sheet at or near the surface of the glass sheet may be exchanged for larger metal ions, for example, from a molten salt bath. By incorporating larger ions into the glass, the sheet can be strengthened by creating a compressive stress in the area near the surface. Within the central region of the glass sheet, a corresponding tensile stress may occur to balance the compressive stress.

Ion exchange can be performed, for example, by immersing the glass in a molten salt bath for a predetermined time. Exemplary molten salt _{bath, KNO 3, LiNO 3, NaNO} 3, RbNO 3, and although combinations thereof, without limitation. The temperature of the molten salt bath and the treatment time can vary. Determining time and temperature according to the desired application is within the ability of those skilled in the art. As a non-limiting example, the temperature of the molten salt bath can be in the range of about 400 ° C. to about 800 ° C. (eg, about 400 ° C. to about 500 ° C., etc.), and the predetermined time is about 4 to about 24 hours (Eg, about 4 hours to about 10 hours, etc.), but other combinations of temperature and time are also envisioned. As non-limiting example, glass, for example, in order K to impart surface compressive stress get rich layer may be immersed in the KNO ₃ bath of about 450 ° C. for about 6 hours.

First correction layer 120 or the second correction layer 120 ', the refractive index n _M or n _M suitable for the desired _application' any inorganic material or an inorganic having a - may include organic hybrid material. Exemplary inorganic materials include, for example, inorganic oxides such as silicon oxide, aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, zirconium oxide, rare earth metal oxides, other inorganic materials such as alkali silicates, and combinations thereof. . As used herein, an “inorganic-organic hybrid” material refers to a composite material that includes inorganic and organic components at the nanometer or molecular level, rather than at the macroscopic (eg, micrometer or millimeter) level. It is intended. Exemplary inorganic-organic hybrid materials include, for example, organic silicates such as silsesquioxane and polyoctahedral silsesquioxane commercially available from Gelest, Hybrid Plastics, or Honeywell, and the like. Combinations are included. In certain embodiments, such an inorganic-hybrid material can be UV curable, thermoset, or light curable. For example, in a non-limiting embodiment, the inorganic-organic hybrid material can be a photocurable organosilicate.

  In some embodiments, the total thickness of the first modification layer 120 or the second modification layer 120 ′ is in the range of about 5 μm to about 100 μm (eg, about 5 μm to about 90 μm, about 10 μm to about 80 μm, About 20 μm to about 70 μm, about 30 μm to about 60 μm, or about 40 μm to about 50 μm, including the entire range and subranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the deposition of the inorganic or inorganic-organic hybrid first or second modification layer 120, 120 'is performed using a sputtering technique or a deposition technique (eg, chemical vapor deposition (CVD) or plasma enhanced CVD (PECVD)). ) And other techniques, including dip coating, spin coating, roll coating, screen printing, and the like. According to some embodiments, the inorganic-organic hybrid material is applied as a liquid, sol-gel, or low viscosity layer, and then, for example, UV-cured, heat-cured, light-cured, or any combination thereof Can be cured. The second modifying layer 120 'may be formed using any suitable technique, such as patterning, imprinting, molding, etching, micro-replicating, or otherwise shaping at least one surface to provide the microstructure 165. , Microstructure 165 may be provided. In various embodiments, the inorganic-organic hybrid material can be cured before or during formation of the microstructure, for example, by imprinting, microreplication, or molding.

  If an adhesive layer 155 is present, the adhesive layer 155 may be any adhesive known in the art, such as an optically clear adhesive (OCA) (eg, sold by 3M Company). And ionomer polymers (such as those sold by DuPont). Exemplary thicknesses of the adhesive layer are, for example, in the range of about 5 μm to about 500 μm, about 10 μm to about 400 μm, about 25 μm to about 300 μm, about 50 μm to about 250 μm, or about 100 μm to about 200 μm (all ranges) And a partial range between them).

  The prism layer 115 can brighten the light emitted from the LGP (for example, the angle distribution of the light can be modified to be perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the light emitting surface of the glass substrate 110 (about 90 ° C.)). It may include any film or material known in the art. Exemplary polymer prism films include, for example, brightness enhancement films (BEF) and dual brightness enhancement films (DBEF). A non-limiting example of a commercially available polymer prism film includes Vikuiti ™ sold by 3M. In certain embodiments, the prism layer 115 may include an organic, inorganic, or inorganic-organic hybrid material as disclosed herein. Such materials can be patterned, imprinted, molded, etched, microreplicated, or otherwise shaped to provide a prismatic structure that can brighten the light emitted from the glass substrate.

  In certain embodiments, various components of light guide plate assembly 100 (eg, glass substrate 110, first modification layer 120, second modification layer 120 ', and / or adhesive layer 155 (if present), etc.). ) Can be transparent or substantially transparent. As used herein, the term "transparent" indicates that the component has a light transmission of greater than about 70% in the visible spectral region (about 420-750 nm) for a transmission length of 500 mm or less. Is intended. For example, exemplary transparent materials have a transmittance in the visible region of greater than about 75% (eg, greater than about 80%, or greater than about 85%, etc.), in all ranges and between them. (Including partial ranges). In certain embodiments, the exemplary modification layers 120, 120 'have a light transmission of greater than about 40% (eg, greater than about 50%, greater than about 60%, for a transmission length of 500 mm or less, in the visible region. Large, greater than about 70%, or greater than about 80% transmittance, and the like, including all ranges and partial ranges therebetween.

  In some embodiments, an exemplary transparent material may include less than about 1 ppm of each of Co, Ni, and Cr. In some embodiments, the concentration of Fe can be less than about 50 ppm, less than about 20 ppm, or less than about 10 ppm. In other embodiments, Fe + 30Cr + 35Ni <about 60 ppm, Fe + 30Cr + 35Ni <about 40 ppm, Fe + 30Cr + 35Ni <about 20 ppm, or Fe + 30Cr + 35Ni <about 10 ppm. According to further embodiments, an exemplary transparent material may include a color shift Δy of less than 0.015, and in some embodiments, a color shift of less than 0.008.

The color shift is the x and y of the light extracted along the length L of the LGP illuminated by a standard white LED (eg, Nichia NFSW157D-E, etc.) using the CIE 1931 standard for color measurement. It can be characterized by measuring the change in chromaticity coordinates. The nominal color coordinate points of the LED are selected such that y = 0.28 and x = 0.29. For glass LGP, the color shift Δy can be reported as Δy = y (L ₂ ) −y (L ₁ ), where L ₂ and L ₁ are panels away from the source launch. or a Z position along the base _direction, is L ₂ -L 1 = 0.5 meters. In an exemplary glass LGP, Δy <0.05, Δy <0.01, Δy <0.005, Δy <0.003, or Δy <0.001. LGP is when no light extraction features may be characterized by adding a plurality of light extraction features of a small area at each measurement point L ₁ and L _2.

The light guide plate assembly disclosed herein may include at least one optical manipulation feature designed to direct light forward (eg, toward a viewer). For example, the optical manipulation features may increase the amount of light transmitted by the light guide plate assembly 100 in a direction perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the light emitting surface 125 of the glass substrate 110. Similarly, the relative refractive index n _P of the prism layer, the relative refractive index n _M and / or n _{M ′ of} the modifying layer, and the relative refractive index n _G of the glass substrate may be in the vertical or substantially vertical direction transmitted by the light guide plate assembly. Can be designed to enhance the rays of light. Using inorganic or inorganic-organic materials in place of one or more organic (eg, polymer) layers in a BLU stack provides the opportunity to create a variety of different refractive index layers, thereby providing More advanced light manipulation may be possible.

  The light guide plate assembly disclosed herein can be used in various display devices, including but not limited to LCDs. Exemplary LCD optical components further include one or more diffuser, reflective, prism, and / or polarizing films, thin film transistor (TFT) arrays, liquid crystal layers, and / or one or more color filters, and the like. obtain. The light guide plate assembly disclosed herein may also be used in various lighting devices, such as, for example, lighting fixtures or solid state lighting devices.

  It is noted that various disclosed embodiments may include the particular features, elements, or steps described with respect to that particular embodiment. Also, the particular features, elements, or steps described with respect to one particular embodiment may be interchanged with, or combined with, another embodiment in various combinations or permutations not shown. .

  Also, as used herein, the terms "the", "a", or "an" mean "at least one" and should not be limited to "only one" unless otherwise specified. I want to be understood. Thus, for example, reference to "a light source" includes instances having more than one such light source, unless otherwise specified. Similarly, "plurality" or "array" is intended to indicate "two or more." Thus, "a plurality of light extraction features" includes two or more such features (e.g., three or more such features, etc.) and an "array of microstructures" includes two or more such features. Microstructures (eg, three or more such microstructures).

  Ranges can be expressed herein as from "about" one particular value, and / or to "about" another particular value. Where such a range is expressed, examples include from the one particular value and / or to another particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the word "about," it will be understood that the particular value forms another aspect. Further, it is to be understood that the endpoints of each range are significant both in relation to, and independently of, the other endpoint.

  As used herein, the terms "substantially", "substantially", and variations thereof, are intended to mean that the recited feature, is equal to or approximately equal to a value or description. For example, a "substantially planar" surface is intended to indicate a planar or substantially planar surface. Furthermore, "substantially similar," as defined above, is intended to mean that the two values are equal or nearly equal. In some embodiments, “substantially similar” may indicate a value that is within 10% of each other (eg, within about 5% of each other, or within about 2% of each other).

  Unless otherwise indicated, it is not intended that any of the methods described herein require that the steps be performed in any particular order. Therefore, when the method claims do not actually state the order in which the steps must be followed, or in the claims or description, it is specifically stated that the steps are limited to a particular order. If not, it is not intended that any particular order be inferred.

  Various features, elements, or steps of a particular embodiment may be disclosed using the transitional phrase “comprising / having”, but comprising “comprising” or including the features, elements, or steps. It is to be understood that other embodiments that may be described using the transitional phrase “consisting essentially of” are also implied. Thus, for example, another embodiment implied for an assembly including A + B + C includes an embodiment in which the assembly consists of A + B + C and an embodiment in which the assembly consists essentially of A + B + C.

  It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the present disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Since those skilled in the art can devise variations, combinations, subcombinations, and modifications of the embodiments of the present disclosure that incorporate the spirit and essence of the present disclosure, the present disclosure should be construed within the scope of the appended claims. Should be construed as including any and all equivalents of

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described separately.

Embodiment 1
A light guide plate assembly,
(A) a glass substrate having a first major surface that is a light-emitting surface and a second major surface opposite to the first major surface;
(B) a prism layer containing an organic material, an inorganic material, or an inorganic-organic hybrid material;
(C) a first correction layer disposed between the first main surface of the glass substrate and the prism layer,
The first correction layer, an inorganic material or an inorganic - include organic hybrid material, a light guide plate assembly and having a lower refractive index n _M than the refractive index n _G of the glass substrate.

Embodiment 2
The first of the refractive index n _M of the modified layer is lower than the refractive index n _P of the prism layer, the first embodiment the light guide plate assembly according.

Embodiment 3
The light guide plate assembly according to claim 1, further comprising an adhesive layer disposed between the prism layer and the first correction layer.

Embodiment 4
The refractive index n _A of the adhesive layer is lower than the refractive index n _P of the prism layer, and the first higher than the refractive index n _M of the modified layer, Embodiment 3 The light guide plate assembly according.

Embodiment 5
The light guide plate assembly according to claim 1, wherein the prism layer includes an inorganic material or an inorganic-organic hybrid material, and the prism layer is provided on the first correction layer.

Embodiment 6
The light guide plate assembly of embodiment 1, further comprising at least one light extraction feature provided on or below the second major surface of the glass substrate.

Embodiment 7
The light guide plate according to embodiment 1, further comprising a second modifying layer provided on the second main surface of the glass substrate, wherein the second modifying layer comprises an inorganic material or an inorganic-organic hybrid material. assembly.

Embodiment 8
The second correction layer, wherein a refractive index n _G equal or higher refractive index of the glass substrate having n _{M ',} embodiment 7 light guide plate assembly according.

Embodiment 9
The light guide plate assembly of embodiment 7, wherein the second modification layer includes at least one light extraction feature.

Embodiment 10
8. The light guide plate assembly of embodiment 7, wherein the second modification layer includes a plurality of microstructures.

Embodiment 11
11. The light guide plate assembly of embodiment 10, wherein the plurality of microstructures comprises a prism, a rounded prism, or a periodic or aperiodic array of lenticular lenses.

Embodiment 12
12. The light guide plate assembly of any one of embodiments 1-11, wherein the thickness of the first or second correction layer is in a range from about 10 μm to about 100 μm.

Embodiment 13
An optical assembly comprising a light source optically coupled to an end face of the light guide plate assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 12.

Embodiment 14
The maximum light emission angle θ _{m of the} light source is given by the following equation (1).

14. The optical assembly according to embodiment 13, wherein:

Embodiment 15
In the light guide plate assembly,
(A) a glass substrate having a first major surface that is a light-emitting surface and a second major surface opposite to the first major surface;
(B) a prism layer provided on the first main surface of the glass substrate, the prism layer including an inorganic material or an inorganic-organic hybrid material, and having a refractive index n _P lower than the refractive index n _{G of the} glass substrate. A light guide plate assembly comprising:

Embodiment 16
A second correction layer provided on the second major surface of the glass substrate, an inorganic material or an inorganic - include organic hybrid materials, higher than or equal to the refractive index n _G of said glass substrate Embodiment 16. The light guide plate assembly of embodiment 15, further comprising a second modifying layer having a refractive index nM _' .

Embodiment 17
17. The light guide plate assembly of embodiment 16, wherein the second modification layer further comprises at least one light extraction feature.

Embodiment 18
17. The light guide plate assembly of embodiment 16, wherein the second modification layer further comprises a plurality of microstructures.

Embodiment 19
19. The light guide plate assembly of embodiment 18, wherein the plurality of microstructures comprises a prism, a rounded prism, or a periodic or aperiodic array of lenticular lenses.

Embodiment 20
20. An optical assembly comprising a light source optically coupled to an end face of the light guide plate assembly according to any one of embodiments 15-19.

Embodiment 21
A display device, a lighting device, or an electronic device, comprising the light guide plate assembly or the optical assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 20.

Reference Signs List 110 glass substrate 115 prism layer 120 first correction layer 120 ′ second correction layer 125 first major surface 130 light incident end surface 135 second major surface 140 light source 145 light extraction feature 150 reflector 155 adhesive layer 160, 170 End face 165 Microstructure 165A Prism 165B Rounded prism 165C Lenticular lens

Claims (21)

A light guide plate assembly,
(A) a glass substrate having a first major surface that is a light-emitting surface and a second major surface opposite to the first major surface;
(B) a prism layer containing an organic material, an inorganic material, or an inorganic-organic hybrid material;
(C) a first correction layer disposed between the first main surface of the glass substrate and the prism layer,
The first correction layer, an inorganic material or an inorganic - include organic hybrid material, a light guide plate assembly and having a lower refractive index n _M than the refractive index n _G of the glass substrate. The first of the refractive index n _M of the modified layer is lower than the refractive index n _P of the prism layer, a light guide plate assembly according to claim 1.   The light guide plate assembly according to claim 1, further comprising an adhesive layer disposed between the prism layer and the first correction layer. The refractive index n _A of the adhesive layer is lower than the refractive index n _P of the prism layer, and the first higher than the refractive index n _M of the modified layer, claim 3 the light guide plate assembly according.   The light guide plate assembly according to claim 1, wherein the prism layer includes an inorganic material or an inorganic-organic hybrid material, and the prism layer is provided on the first correction layer.   The light guide plate assembly of claim 1, further comprising at least one light extraction feature provided on or below the second major surface of the glass substrate.   The light guide plate according to claim 1, further comprising a second correction layer provided on the second main surface of the glass substrate, wherein the second correction layer includes an inorganic material or an inorganic-organic hybrid material. assembly. The second correction layer, wherein a refractive index n _G equal or higher refractive index of the glass substrate having n _{M ',} claim 7 light guide plate assembly according.   The light guide plate assembly of claim 7, wherein the second modification layer includes at least one light extraction feature.   The light guide plate assembly according to claim 7, wherein the second correction layer includes a plurality of microstructures.   The light guide plate assembly of claim 10, wherein the plurality of microstructures comprises a prism, a rounded prism, or a periodic or aperiodic array of lenticular lenses.   The light guide plate assembly according to claim 1, wherein a thickness of the first correction layer or the second correction layer is in a range from about 10 μm to about 100 μm.   An optical assembly comprising a light source optically coupled to an end face of the light guide plate assembly according to claim 1. The maximum light emission angle θ _{m of the} light source is given by the following equation (1).

14. The optical assembly of claim 13, wherein In the light guide plate assembly,
(A) a glass substrate having a first major surface that is a light-emitting surface and a second major surface opposite to the first major surface;
(B) a prism layer provided on the first main surface of the glass substrate, the prism layer including an inorganic material or an inorganic-organic hybrid material, and having a refractive index n _P lower than the refractive index n _{G of the} glass substrate. A light guide plate assembly comprising: A second correction layer provided on the second major surface of the glass substrate, an inorganic material or an inorganic - include organic hybrid materials, higher than or equal to the refractive index n _G of said glass substrate 16. The light guide plate assembly of claim 15, further comprising a second modifying layer having a refractive index nM _' .   17. The light guide plate assembly of claim 16, wherein said second modifying layer further comprises at least one light extraction feature.   17. The light guide plate assembly of claim 16, wherein said second modification layer further comprises a plurality of microstructures.   19. The light guide plate assembly of claim 18, wherein the plurality of microstructures comprises a prism, a rounded prism, or a periodic or aperiodic array of lenticular lenses.   An optical assembly comprising a light source optically coupled to an end face of the light guide plate assembly according to any one of claims 15 to 19.   A display device, a lighting device, or an electronic device, comprising the light guide plate assembly or the optical assembly according to claim 1.

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