JP3841190B2 - Liquid crystal element manufacturing method and manufacturing apparatus thereof - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a liquid crystal element such as a liquid crystal panel, and an apparatus for manufacturing the same.
[0002]
[Prior art and its problems]
  As a method for manufacturing a liquid crystal element such as a liquid crystal panel, a well-known method is an injection method. In this injection method, first, an empty panel is produced by bonding and fixing a peripheral portion of a pair of substrates facing each other with a predetermined interval of 1 to 10 μm with a sealing material. Next, this empty panel is accommodated in a vacuum device, the inside of the panel is brought into a vacuum state, and an inlet provided in advance in the sealing material portion is immersed in the liquid crystal. Thereafter, the inside of the vacuum apparatus is gradually returned to the atmospheric pressure, whereby liquid crystal is injected into the panel using the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the panel and capillary action. However, this injection method has a problem that it takes time to inject liquid crystal having a relatively high viscosity, and in particular, a large injection time is required as the liquid crystal display element is enlarged. In addition, there is a problem that it takes a pre-processing time for making the inside of the vacuum device vacuum, and there is another problem that an expensive vacuum device is necessary. That is, the conventional injection method has problems such as an increase in manufacturing time and cost.
[0003]
  Therefore, for example, as described in JP-A-60-75817, JP-A-60-230636, JP-A-1-303414, JP-A-3-25416, and JP-A-4-218027. Then, a sealing material is applied to one of the pair of bases so as to surround the display area, and after the liquid crystal is dropped or applied to the display area, the other base is pressure-bonded in parallel in a vacuum device, and then the sealing material A method (a dropping method or a coating method) for curing the resin has been proposed. According to this method, the time required for injecting the liquid crystal is greatly shortened. However, since the substrates are superposed under vacuum, it still takes a pretreatment time for evacuating the inside of the vacuum apparatus and is expensive. Since a vacuum device is necessary, there is a problem that the manufacturing time increases and the manufacturing cost increases.
[0004]
  In addition, as described in JP-A-2-84616, JP-A-2-123324, and JP-A-6-208097, in the above-described dropping method or coating method, the substrate is superposed in the atmosphere. A method of doing this has also been proposed. Since this method does not require a vacuum device, manufacturing time and manufacturing cost can be reduced as compared with the dropping method or coating method using the vacuum device described above. However, in this method, since the substrates are superposed in the atmosphere, bubbles remain in the liquid crystal in the display area during the superposition, which becomes a display defect, and there is a problem in that the yield decreases. It was.
[0005]
  Further, in order to solve the problem of remaining bubbles as described above, a method of applying liquid crystal to a predetermined thin line pattern and superimposing a substrate gradually or intermittently (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 3-89315), A method in which a pair of substrates are made to face each other in a wedge shape, or one substrate is made to face in a convex shape, and the substrates are gradually brought close to each other in parallel so as to be pressure-bonded. 179919) and the like have been proposed. However, in such a method, the time required for the superposition of the substrates becomes long, and a special apparatus is required for performing precise superposition of the substrates, which also increases the production time and the production cost. There was a problem of bulkiness.
[0006]
  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing a liquid crystal element capable of easily and simply enclosing liquid crystal in a short time without the need for a vacuum apparatus and without bubbles remaining in the liquid crystal. It is to provide a manufacturing apparatus.
[0007]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In the method for manufacturing a liquid crystal element of the present invention that achieves the above-described object, a pair of substrates opposed to each other at a predetermined interval are fixed to each other in an adhesion region provided along an outer peripheral portion thereof, A method of manufacturing a liquid crystal element in which liquid crystal is sealed in a liquid crystal region inside the bonding region, the step of applying a curable adhesive to the bonding region of at least one of the pair of substrates; Supplying a predetermined amount of liquid crystal to one end of the liquid crystal region of at least one of the substrates, and placing the pair of substrates facing each other with the curable adhesive and the liquid crystal interposed therebetween,Heating the pair of opposed substrates to the same temperature;On at least one base of the pair of bases arranged to face each other in the direction from the one end to the other end of the liquid crystal region.Built-in heaterRoll the pressure roller relativelyIn this case, the pressure roller is heated to the same temperature as the substrate by a built-in heater.And extending the liquid crystal from the one end to the entire liquid crystal region, and curing the curable adhesive.
[0008]
  In one embodiment of the present invention, the liquid crystal region is a display region, and the surface of at least one of the pair of substrates disposed to face each other is from the one end to the other end of the liquid crystal region.SaidA pressure roller is rolled to spread the liquid crystal from the one end to the entire liquid crystal region.
[0009]
  In one aspect of the present invention, when the pressure roller relatively rolls on at least one of the pair of opposed substrates, the one outside the one end portion of the liquid crystal region. The substrate is relatively rolled from a position near the edge of the substrate to the other end of the liquid crystal region.
[0010]
  In one aspect of the present invention, the relatively moving substrate is pressurized in the moving direction by the pressure roller, and this pressure state is held by an auxiliary roller.
[0011]
  In one aspect of the present invention, the pressure roller is formed with a large diameter, and the auxiliary roller is formed with a smaller diameter than the pressure roller.
[0012]
  In one aspect of the present invention, when the curable adhesive is applied to the adhesive region, at least one air discharge portion that does not apply the curable adhesive is provided in the vicinity of the other end portion of the liquid crystal region.
[0013]
  In one embodiment of the present invention, a groove is provided between the liquid crystal region and the adhesion region on the opposing surface of at least one of the pair of substrates, and at least when the liquid crystal is spread, Place in the groove.
[0014]
  In one aspect of the present invention, the groove is continued so as to surround the liquid crystal region in a closed loop shape when viewed in plan when the pair of substrates are opposed to each other.
[0015]
  In one embodiment of the present invention, an air discharge groove extending to the edge of the one base is provided continuously to the groove formed on the facing surface of at least one base of the pair of bases, and the liquid crystal is spread. When performing, the air pushed out by the liquid crystal is discharged from the air discharge groove.
[0016]
  In one embodiment of the present invention, a groove having a width of 200 μm or more and a depth of 20 μm or more is formed as the groove.
[0017]
  In one embodiment of the present invention, ferroelectric liquid crystal is used as the liquid crystal.
[0018]
  In one embodiment of the present invention, fine particles having an average primary particle size of 1 μm or less are mixed in the liquid crystal.
[0019]
  In one embodiment of the present invention, when the liquid crystal is spread, the liquid crystal materialTheThe substrate is heated between the transition temperature between the tic A phase and the cholesteric phase and a temperature 4 ° C. higher than that and below the transition temperature between the cholesteric phase and the isotropic phase.
[0020]
  In one aspect of the present invention, after the step of spreading the liquid crystal, the curable adhesive is cured while pressing the pair of substrates that are arranged to face each other evenly or from the opposite side. Let
[0021]
  In addition, the present inventionObtained inIn the liquid crystal element, a pair of bases arranged to face each other at a predetermined interval are fixed to each other in an adhesive region provided along an outer peripheral portion thereof, and the liquid crystal is formed in the liquid crystal region inside the adhesive region between the pair of bases. A groove is provided between the liquid crystal region and the bonding region on the opposing surface of at least one of the pair of substrates.Good.
[0022]
  SoIn one aspect, the liquid crystal region is a display region.
[0023]
  SoIn one aspect, the grooves continue so as to surround the liquid crystal region in a closed loop shape when viewed in plan when the pair of substrates are opposed to each other.
[0024]
  SoIn one aspect of the present invention, a groove extending continuously to an edge of the one substrate is further provided continuously to the groove formed on the facing surface of at least one substrate of the pair of substrates.
[0025]
  SoIn one aspect, the groove has a width of 200 μm or more and a depth of 20 μm or more.
[0026]
  SoIn one aspect, the liquid crystal is a ferroelectric liquid crystal.
[0027]
  SoIn one embodiment, fine particles having an average primary particle size of 1 μm or less are mixed in the liquid crystal.
[0028]
  In the apparatus for manufacturing a liquid crystal element of the present invention, a pair of substrates opposed to each other with a predetermined interval are fixed to each other in an adhesion region provided along an outer peripheral portion thereof, and the adhesion region between the pair of substrates is fixed. An apparatus for manufacturing a liquid crystal element in which liquid crystal is sealed in an inner liquid crystal region, wherein an application means for applying a curable adhesive to the adhesive region of at least one of the pair of substrates, and at least one of the pair of substrates Supply means for supplying a predetermined amount of liquid crystal to one end of the liquid crystal region of the base, and placement means for opposingly arranging the pair of bases with the curable adhesive and the liquid crystal interposed therebetween,Heating means for heating the pair of opposed substrates disposed at the same temperature;Relatively rolls on at least one of the pair of opposed substrates from the one end to the other end of the liquid crystal region.At this time, it is heated to the same temperature as the base by the built-in heater.And extending the liquid crystal from the one end to the entire liquid crystal region.Built-in heaterA pressure roller; and a curing means for curing the curable adhesive.
[0029]
  In one embodiment of the present invention, the liquid crystal region is a display region, and the liquid crystal region is placed on at least one of the pair of substrates disposed to face each other.ofFrom the one end to the other endSaidPressure rollerButRollingTo doThus, the liquid crystal is spread from the one end to the entire liquid crystal region.
[0030]
  In one aspect of the present invention, when the pressure roller relatively rolls on at least one of the pair of opposed substrates, the one outside the one end of the liquid crystal region. Relative rolling from a position near the edge of the substrate to the other end of the liquid crystal regionYouThe
[0031]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described according to preferred embodiments.
[0032]
  First, referring to FIG. 1 to FIG. 3, a method for manufacturing a liquid crystal display element such as an active matrix liquid crystal panelExampleWill be explained.
[0033]
  First, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, a pair of upper and lower substrates 1 and 2 constituting an active matrix type liquid crystal display element are prepared. For example, the substrate 1 includes a matrix pixel electrode (see FIG. 5A) on a glass substrate and a thin film transistor (not shown) connected to the pixel electrode, and an alignment film (not shown) is further formed thereon. (Shown). On the other hand, the substrate 2 has a color filter (not shown), a transparent common electrode (see FIG. 5A), and an alignment film (not shown) on a glass substrate.
[0034]
  Therefore, first, as shown in FIG. 1A, for example, a sealing material 3 made of, for example, an ultraviolet curable adhesive is provided in an adhesive region along the outer peripheral portion of the opposing surface of the substrate 1 on which the alignment film is formed. Using a dispenser, the display area inside the adhesion area is applied in a closed loop shape as shown in the figure. The sealing material 3 may be applied to the opposite surface side of the substrate 2 on which the alignment film is formed, or may be applied to the opposite surfaces of both substrates.
[0035]
  Next, as shown in FIG. 1 (b), the liquid crystal 4 is accurately measured at one end of the display area on the opposite surface of the base 1 using, for example, a dispenser, and straight along one side of the base 1. Dripping into a shape. The liquid crystal 4 may be applied to the opposite surface side of the substrate 2 or may be applied to the opposite surfaces of both substrates. Furthermore, the application pattern of the liquid crystal 4 is not limited to a linear shape, but may be a curved shape or a dotted line shape. Furthermore, the liquid crystal 4 may be dropped at other locations in the display area for the purpose of increasing the uniformity of the spread of the liquid crystal 4.
[0036]
  In addition,This exampleThe liquid crystal 4 used in 1 is, for example, a nematic type having fluidity at room temperature, and can be operated as it is. The liquid crystal 4 is preferably used by mixing spacer particles for controlling the gap between the substrates. The spacer particles may be dispersed in advance on the opposing surfaces of one or both substrates. In that case, the substrate is heated to fix the spacer particles coated with the thermoplastic resin to the substrate. May be.
[0037]
  Next, as shown in FIG. 1 (c), the substrates 1 and 2 are superposed with their opposing surfaces facing each other. For example, the liquid crystal 4 spreads and approaches due to the weight of the superposed substrate 2 from above. It spreads in the display area near the bonding areaThewait. Thereafter, for example, the pressure roller 5 is rolled on the base 2 to spread the liquid crystal 4 over the entire display area as shown in FIG. Also, the spacer particles mixed with the liquid crystal 4 are distributed over the entire display area together with the liquid crystal 4, and between the substrates 1 and 2.InA predetermined gap is formed. In this way, by expanding the liquid crystal 4 in one direction by the pressure roller 5, the bubbles once caught in the liquid crystal 4 are pushed out from the liquid crystal 4 along with the expansion of the liquid crystal 4. Further, the liquid crystal 4 spreads sideways and does not enter the seal portion of the seal material 3.
[0038]
  The pressing force of the pressure roller 5 at this time is 2 to 15 kg / cm.²It is preferable that it is the range of these. If the pressing force is smaller than this, the liquid crystal 4 does not spread sufficiently, and a predetermined gap between the substrates may not be obtained. On the other hand, if the pressing force is larger than this range, the alignment film provided on the opposite surface of the substrate may be damaged, or the spacer particles for maintaining the gap between the substrates may be destroyed, and the predetermined gap between the substrates will be lost. May not be obtained.
[0039]
  FIG. 3B shows a schematic cross-sectional view. The pressure roller 5 is positioned closer to the edge of the substrate 2 on the outer side than the position where the liquid crystal 4 is first applied, as indicated by the alternate long and short dash line. It is better to start rolling. As a result, the liquid crystal 4 is reliably spread from one end portion of the display area applied first to the other end portion. At this time, since the sealing material 3 is not yet sufficiently in close contact with the base 2, gaps 100 are formed in some places, air is appropriately discharged from these gaps 100, and bubbles remain in the liquid crystal 4. Is prevented, and the seal pattern of the sealing material 3 is prevented from being disturbed or torn. Further, for example, when the pressure roller 5 is rolled in the illustrated rubbing direction of the alignment film 102 made of, for example, a polyimide rubbing film formed on the transparent electrodes 101 on the substrates 1 and 2, the molecules 103 of the liquid crystal 4 are formed. It becomes easy to orient in that direction.
[0040]
  Pressurizing meansAsIsIllustratedNot only the pressure roller 5 but also pressurerollerWhen relatively moving, the bases 1 and 2 may be moved.
[0041]
  Next, as shown in FIG. 2, the display area filled with the liquid crystal 4 is shielded with a stainless steel plate 6 or the like, and the sealing material 3 is cured by irradiating the ultraviolet ray with an ultraviolet lamp 7. Prior to or when the sealing material 3 is cured, it is preferable to apply pressure uniformly from both the upper and lower surfaces of the substrates 1 and 2 disposed opposite to each other by a heating press or the like. Thereby, a uniform gap between substrates can be obtained, and a high-quality liquid crystal display element free from display unevenness can be obtained.
[0042]
  thisExampleThen, the liquid crystal 4 is supplied to one end portion of the display area inside the adhesion area where the sealing material 3 is applied on at least one of the pair of bases 1 and 2, and the bases 1 and 2 are opposed to each other. After arranging and overlapping, the pressure roller 5 is rolled in the direction from one end to the other end of the display area to which the liquid crystal 4 is supplied, and the liquid crystal 4 is pushed from one end to the other end. , Spread throughout the display area. Therefore, the liquid crystal 4 can be filled in a short time. Further, even if the liquid crystal 4 is spread under atmospheric pressure, the bubbles once entrained in the liquid crystal 4 are pushed out from the liquid crystal 4 along with the spread of the liquid crystal 4.ButThere is no residue. Accordingly, there is no need to use an expensive vacuum device as in the prior art, so that the manufacturing cost does not increase. Furthermore, since it is not necessary to hold the bases 1 or 2 in an unreasonable posture when the bases 1 and 2 are superposed, accurate superposition of the bases 1 and 2 can be performed easily and in a short time. Furthermore, there is also an effect that a desired gap between the substrates can be obtained by appropriately adjusting the pressure of the pressure roller 5.
[0043]
  Next, referring to FIG.Another exampleWill be explained. In addition, thisExampleIn the first mentioned aboveExampleIn the part corresponding toExampleThe same reference numerals are attached.
[0044]
  As shown in FIG. 4 (a), this secondExampleThen, when the sealing material 3 is applied to the bonding region of the substrate 1, the air discharge portion 8 that does not apply the sealing material 3 is provided on the side far from the side where the liquid crystal 4 is dropped. As a result, as shown in FIG. 4B, when the pressure roller 5 is rolled, the air pushed out by the liquid crystal 4 that is spread out is smoothly discharged from the air discharge unit 8. In addition, you may provide the air exhaust part 8 in multiple places not only in one place. In that case, an air discharge portion may be provided on a side other than the side far from the side where the liquid crystal 4 is dropped.
[0045]
  As illustrated in FIG. 4C, the air discharge unit 8 cures the sealing material 3 and then applies and seals the sealing material.
[0046]
  Configurations other than those described above are the same as those described above.ExampleIs the same.
[0047]
  This secondExampleThen, the first mentioned aboveExampleIn addition to the above effects, it is possible to more effectively prevent bubbles from remaining in the liquid crystal 4 and to obtain a liquid crystal display element free from disturbance of the seal pattern of the sealing material 3 and air remaining at the inner end of the adhesive region. The effect of being able to be obtained.
[0048]
  5 to 6 show the thirdExampleIndicates. This thirdExampleIn the first and second described aboveExampleThe part corresponding toExampleThe same reference numerals are attached.
[0049]
  As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, this thirdExampleThen, prior to forming the alignment film, the grooves 9a and 9b are provided at positions inside the bonding regions of the opposing surfaces of the substrates 1 and 2, respectively. The grooves 9a and 9b are formed in a pattern that does not interfere with the electrode lead portions provided on the bases 1 and 2, respectively. For example, in the illustrated example, since the pixel electrode 104 is provided on the base 1, grooves 9 a are provided at the four corners of the display area, avoiding the lead portions of the pixel electrode 104. On the other hand, since the transparent common electrode 105 is provided on the base 2, relatively long grooves 9b can be formed on the four sides of the display area. Then, as shown in FIG. 6B, these grooves 9a and 9b overlap each other when the bases 1 and 2 are arranged to face each other, and are continuous so as to surround the display area in a closed loop shape.
[0050]
  When such grooves 9a and 9b are provided, when the liquid crystal 4 is spread by the pressure roller 5 as shown in FIG. 6A, excess liquid crystal is present as shown in FIG. 6B. Therefore, when these protrude from the original display area, the excess liquid crystal is accommodated in the grooves 9a and 9b. Therefore, the surplus liquid crystal does not enter the seal portion of the seal material 3, and the display quality is not deteriorated and the panel is not poorly bonded due to the liquid crystal coming into contact with the seal material. Moreover, since the precision of the dripping amount of the liquid crystal 4 is not required, the process becomes simple. Moreover, these grooves 9a and 9b are also useful when accommodating the sealing material 3 protruding from the adhesion region.
[0051]
  The effect of accommodating the liquid crystal and the sealing material is particularly great when the grooves 9a and 9b are continuous as shown in FIG. 6B, but the grooves 9a and 9b are not necessarily continuous.
[0052]
  The width of the groove to be formed is preferably 200 μm or more, and the depth is preferably 20 μm or more. If the groove is narrower or shallower than this, the excess liquid crystal or sealing material cannot sufficiently be accommodated when it protrudes from the display area or the adhesive area. Therefore, the effect of providing the groove is sufficient. Therefore, there is a possibility that a high-quality liquid crystal display element cannot be obtained. In addition, the upper limit of the groove depth is preferably less than or equal to half the thickness of the substrate from the viewpoint of not reducing the mechanical strength of the substrate.
[0053]
  This thirdExampleIn the configuration other than that described above, the first configuration described above is used.ExampleIs the same.
[0054]
  The fourth in FIG.ExampleIndicates. This fourthExampleIn the first to third mentioned aboveExampleThe part corresponding toExampleThe same reference numerals are attached.
[0055]
  As shown in FIG. 7, this fourthExampleIs the second mentioned aboveExampleIn the same manner as in the third embodiment, except that the air discharge portion 8 that does not apply the sealing material 3 is provided in the bonding region of the base 1.ExampleIt is the same composition as. Therefore this fourthExampleThen, the second and third described aboveExampleThe effect of each can be acquired.
[0056]
  Figure 5 shows the fifthExampleIndicates. This fifthExample1 to 4 described above.ExampleThe part corresponding toExampleThe same reference numerals are attached.
[0057]
  As shown in FIG. 8, this fifthExampleThen, the third mentioned aboveExampleIn the same configuration, a groove 9c extending to the edge of the base 2 is provided continuously to the groove 9b provided in the base 2 corresponding to the side opposite to the side where the liquid crystal 4 is supplied in the display area. Yes. The other configuration is the above-described third configuration.ExampleIs the same.
[0058]
  This fifthExampleThe groove 9c provided in FIG. 5 functions as an air discharge groove for discharging the air pushed out by the liquid crystal 4 when the liquid crystal 4 is spread by the pressure roller 5. Therefore, this fifthExampleThen, the 2nd and 4th which provided the air exhaust part 8ExampleSimilarly to the above, it is possible to effectively prevent bubbles from remaining in the liquid crystal 4 and to obtain a liquid crystal display element free from disturbance of the seal pattern of the sealing material 3 and air remaining at the inner end of the adhesion region. The effect is obtained. Furthermore, this fifthExampleSince the groove 9c has an effect of assisting the continuous groove 9b, for example, there is an effect that liquid crystal or a sealing material that cannot be accommodated in the groove 9b can be accommodated in the groove 9c.
[0059]
  The groove 9c is the second and fourth described above.ExampleIn the same manner as in the air discharge part 8, the sealing material 3 is cured and then sealed with a sealing material.
[0060]
  The number of grooves 9c is not limited to one, and a plurality of grooves 9c may be provided. In that case, the grooves 9c may be provided continuously to the grooves 9b on the other side. Further, the groove 9c may be provided on the base 1 side. Further, the groove 9c may be provided in a curved shape.
[0061]
  FIG. 9 shows the present invention.Example based onIndicates. thisExample1 to 5 described above.ExampleThe part corresponding toExampleThe same reference numerals are attached.
[0062]
  thisExampleNow, an example in which the present invention is applied to a manufacturing process of a liquid crystal display element such as a simple matrix type liquid crystal panel using ferroelectric liquid crystal will be described.
[0063]
  First, as shown in FIG. 9A, a pair of upper and lower substrates 11 and 12 constituting a simple matrix type liquid crystal display element are prepared. For example, the substrate 11 has a striped transparent electrode (see FIG. 10A) on a glass substrate, and further has an alignment film (not shown) thereon. On the other hand, the substrate 12 has a color filter (not shown), a striped transparent electrode (see FIG. 10A), and an alignment film (not shown) on a glass substrate. A simple matrix is formed by superimposing these substrates 11 and 12 so that the striped transparent electrodes are orthogonal to each other.
[0064]
  Then, as shown in FIG.ExampleIn the same manner as in the above, the ferroelectric liquid crystal 14 is dropped on one end of the display area of the base 11 provided with the air discharge part 8 in the sealing material 3. At this time, as shown in the figure, the substrate 11 is placed on the stage 20 with a built-in heater, and the substrate 11 is 4 ° C. higher than the transition temperature between the smectic A phase and the cholesteric phase of the ferroelectric liquid crystal 14. While being heated to a temperature between the temperature and the transition temperature between the cholesteric phase and the isotropic phase, the ferroelectric liquid crystal 14 is dropped accurately by, for example, using a heat retaining dispenser.Good.
[0065]
  At this time, it is preferable to mix fine particles having an average primary particle size of 1 μm or less together with the spacer particles in the ferroelectric liquid crystal 14. As already presented in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 6-194893 by the applicant of the present application, when such fine particles are present in the liquid crystal, for example, the transmittance of the liquid crystal is continuously changed according to the applied voltage due to the dielectric constant of the fine particles. By changing to the above, it is possible to realize analog gradation display while maintaining high contrast in the ferroelectric liquid crystal display element. Specific examples of usable fine particles include titanium oxide and carbon black.
[0066]
  When such fine particles are used, there is a concern that fine particles may agglomerate or settle at the time of injection in a process that takes a long time like the injection method.ExampleIn that case, there is almost no concern.
[0067]
  Next, as shown in FIG. 9B, the base 12 heated to the same temperature as the base 11 is superposed on the base 11 and, for example, the heater built-in pressure roller 15 incorporating the lamp heater 21 is rolled, The ferroelectric liquid crystal 14 is spread.
[0068]
  Since the ferroelectric liquid crystal generally has a high viscosity, if the liquid crystal is spread at a low temperature, the alignment film is damaged due to flow resistance, and a uniform alignment state of the liquid crystal cannot be obtained. However, when the substrate is heated and the liquid crystal is kept in the cholesteric phase or isotropic phase, the viscosity of the liquid crystal is sufficiently lowered, and the alignment film is not damaged during spreading. However, if the liquid crystal is spread in the isotropic phase or the liquid crystal is spread at a temperature exceeding 4 ° C. higher than the transition temperature between the smectic A phase and the cholesteric phase even in the cholesteric phase, the gap between the substrates is increased. The orientation around the spacer particles used for control is disturbed, and an inversion domain is formed. For this reason, the problem that display quality falls will arise. Therefore, the ferroelectric material is heated while being heated to a temperature between the transition temperature between the smectic A phase and the cholesteric phase of the liquid crystal material and a temperature 4 ° C. higher than that and below the transition temperature between the cholesteric phase and the isotropic phase. By spreading the liquid crystal, a high-quality liquid crystal display element free from liquid crystal alignment disorder can be obtained.
[0069]
  After that, as shown in FIG.ExampleIn the same manner as described above, after the sealing material 3 is cured, the air discharge portion 8 is sealed.
[0070]
  The configuration other than that described above is the second configuration described above.ExampleIs the same.
[0071]
  thisExampleUses ferroelectric liquid crystal, but since the ferroelectric liquid crystal has a memory property, flicker which is a problem in CRT (cathode ray tube) or the like can be eliminated. Ferroelectric liquid crystal is about 1000 times faster than nematic liquid crystal display.ExampleSuch simple XY matrix driving can be driven with 1000 or more scanning lines (that is, driving with a thin film transistor (TFT) can be eliminated). Further, the ferroelectric liquid crystal has little viewing angle dependency. So thisExampleThus, an inexpensive and high-quality liquid crystal display element can be obtained.
[0072]
  And thisExampleThus, since the viscosity is high, it becomes possible to fill the ferroelectric liquid crystal, which required a long time for liquid crystal injection in a normal injection method, in an extremely short time.
[0073]
  FIG. 10 shows the present invention.Other examples based onIndicates. thisExampleIn the aboveExampleThe part corresponding toExampleThe same reference numerals are attached.
[0074]
  thisExampleThen, aboveExampleSimilarly to the above, another example in which the present invention is applied to a manufacturing process of a liquid crystal element such as a simple matrix type liquid crystal panel using a ferroelectric liquid crystal will be described.
[0075]
  First, as shown in FIGS.ExampleSimilarly, the bases 11 and 12 are overlapped so that the striped transparent electrodes are orthogonal to each other to form a simple matrix. Under the same conditions, the display region of the base 11 provided with the air exhaust part 8 in the sealing material 3 A ferroelectric liquid crystal 14 is dropped on one end of the substrate.
[0076]
  Next, as shown in FIG. 10 (c), the base 12 heated to the same temperature as the base 11 is superposed on the base 11 and, for example, the heater built-in pressure roller 15 incorporating the lamp heater 21 is rolled, The ferroelectric liquid crystal 14 is spread. Further, on the downstream side of the pressure roller 15, the auxiliary rollers 22 </ b> A and 22 </ b> B incorporating the lamp heater 23 are rolled, and after the pressure roller 15 passes, the substrates 11 and 12 are held by the auxiliary rollers 22 </ b> A and 22 </ b> B.
[0077]
  Thereafter, as shown in FIG.AlreadyThe second mentionedExampleIn the same manner as described above, after the sealing material 3 is cured, the air discharge portion 8 is sealed.
[0078]
  Configurations other than those described above areAlreadyThe second mentionedExampleIs the same.
[0079]
  In addition, as a method of arranging the spacer particles for controlling the gap between the substrates, not only mixing in the liquid crystal but also pre-spreading on at least one substrate. Further, in this case, spacers coated with a thermoplastic resin (for example, high plesica made by Ube Nitto Kasei Co., Ltd.) may be sprayed, and the spacer particles may be fixed to the substrate by heating the substrate.
[0080]
  In addition, the physical properties and types of the ultrafine particles that give the analog liquid crystal display properties to the ferroelectric liquid crystal can be variously changed.
[0081]
  thisExampleIn the aboveExampleIn addition to the effects of this auxiliary roller 22A,22BAs a result, the bases 11 and 12 after passing through the pressure roller 15 are held, and the gap return (gap fluctuation) due to the repulsive force of the uncured sealing material 3 pressurized to the pressure roller 15 is prevented. Can do.
[0082]
  FIG. 13 shows the present invention.Yet another exampleIndicates. thisExampleIn the aboveExamplesThe part corresponding toExampleThe same reference numerals are attached.
[0083]
  As shown in FIG.ExampleIn the aboveExample of FIG.In the simple matrix type liquid crystal display element using the ferroelectric liquid crystal of the above,ExampleSimilarly to the above, grooves 19a and 19b are provided on the opposing surfaces of the bases 11 and 12, respectively. However, thisExampleThen, as shown in the figure, the stripe electrodes 106 and 107 are provided on the opposing surfaces of the bases 11 and 12, respectively. Therefore, the grooves 19a and 19b are provided along two sides where the stripe electrodes 106 and 107 do not have the lead portions, respectively. It is done. Further, as shown in FIG. 13B, the grooves 19a and 19b are provided in a continuous pattern so as to overlap each other when the substrates 11 and 12 are opposed to each other and surround the display area in a closed loop shape.
[0084]
  thisExampleIn the configuration other than that described above,Example of FIG.Is the same.
[0085]
  thisExampleIn the aboveExample of FIG.In addition to the effect ofExampleThe same effect can be obtained.
[0086]
  More thanEach example, especially the example of FIGS. 9 and 10In the above, an example in which the present invention is applied to a liquid crystal display element such as a liquid crystal panel and a manufacturing method thereof has been described. However, the present invention can also be applied to a liquid crystal element such as a light shielding shutter and a manufacturing method thereof, for example. It is. Further, for example, the present invention can be applied to a liquid crystal element such as a light control element by analog gradation display using a ferroelectric liquid crystal and a manufacturing method thereof.
[0087]
【Example】
  Example 1
  1 to 3 shown in FIGS.ExampleAccordingly, an active matrix liquid crystal display element was manufactured.
[0088]
  First, firstExampleA pair of upper and lower substrates 1 and 2 constituting the active matrix type liquid crystal display element described in the above were prepared.
[0089]
  Next, as shown in FIG. 1A, a sealant 3 (World Lock No.SD-11Z, manufactured by Kyoritsu Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) is used by using a dispenser so as to form a closed loop along the outer periphery of the substrate 1. ) And leveled at 60 ° C. for 3 minutes to form a seal portion.
[0090]
  Next, as shown in FIG. 1B, the liquid crystal 4 in which 0.05 wt% spacer particles are mixed in advance inside the seal portion described above along one side of the substrate 1 is used with a dispenser. Weighed accurately and dropped in a straight line.
[0091]
  Next, the substrates 1 and 2 were superposed with their respective alignment film forming surfaces facing each other. After waiting for the liquid crystal 4 to spread by the dead weight of the substrate 2 superimposed from above and to reach the area between the liquid crystal 4 and the seal portion adjacent to the liquid crystal 4, the liquid crystal 4 is moved as shown in FIG. A pressure roller 5 having a diameter of 90 mm is applied at 4 kg / cm from the outside of the seal part on the dripping side.²It was pressed and rolled with a pressure of. As a result, the liquid crystal 4 spreads uniformly over almost the entire area inside the seal portion, and the spacer particles mixed in advance with the liquid crystal 4 also spread over the entire area inside the seal portion together with the liquid crystal 4, and between the substrates 1 and 2.InA predetermined gap was formed.
[0092]
  Next, as shown in FIG. 2, the display area filled with the liquid crystal 4 is shielded by a stainless steel plate 6 having a thickness of 0.3 mm, and then the entire liquid crystal display element is 90 mW / cm.²The sealing material 3 was hardened by irradiating with ultraviolet rays at an intensity of 20 seconds.
[0093]
  This makes the active matrix system extremely shortofA liquid crystal display element was obtained. Although slight bubbles remained in the vicinity of the seal portion on the side opposite to the side where the liquid crystal 4 was first dropped and slight disturbance of the seal pattern due to the bubbles was observed, there was no microbubbles remaining in the display area. I couldn't see it.
[0094]
  Example 2
  The second shown in FIG.ExampleAccordingly, an active matrix liquid crystal display element was manufactured.
[0095]
  First, as in Example 1, a pair of upper and lower substrates 1 and 2 constituting an active matrix type liquid crystal display element were prepared.
[0096]
  Next, as shown in FIG. 4A, a sealing material 3 (World Rock No. SD-11Z, manufactured by Kyoritsu Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) was applied to the outer periphery of the substrate 1 using a dispenser. At that time, the air discharge part 8 was provided in the seal part along one side of the base body 1. The substrate 1 was heated at 60 ° C. for 3 minutes to level the sealing material 3.
[0097]
  Next, the liquid crystal 4 in which 0.05 wt% spacer particles are mixed in advance inside the seal portion along one side facing the side where the air discharge unit 8 of the substrate 1 is provided is dispensed using a dispenser. Weighed accurately and dropped in a straight line.
[0098]
  Next, the substrates 1 and 2 were superposed with their alignment film formation surfaces facing each other, and the pressure roller 5 was rolled under the same conditions as in Example 1 as shown in FIG. . As a result, the liquid crystal 4 is uniformly spread over the entire area inside the seal portion, and the spacer particles premixed in the liquid crystal 4 are spread over the entire area inside the seal portion together with the liquid crystal 4, soInA predetermined gap was formed.
[0099]
  Next, as shown in FIG. 4C, after the sealing material 3 was cured in the same manner as in Example 1, the sealing material was applied to the air discharge portion 8 and sealed.
[0100]
  This makes the active matrix system extremely shortofA liquid crystal display element was obtained. Further, there was no disorder in the seal pattern, and no fine bubbles remained in the area inside the seal portion including the display area.
[0101]
  Example 3
  The third shown in FIG. 5 and FIG.ExampleAccordingly, an active matrix liquid crystal display element was manufactured.
[0102]
  First, as in Example 1, a pair of upper and lower substrates 1 and 2 constituting an active matrix type liquid crystal display element were prepared.
[0103]
  However, as shown in FIG. 5A, prior to providing the alignment films on the substrates 1 and 2, the substrate 1 has 4 of the substrate 1 so as not to interfere with the lead-out portions of the matrix pixel electrodes. A groove 9a having a width of 1 mm and a depth of 100 μm was formed in the inner portion of the corner seal portion. On the other hand, a linear groove 9b having a width of 1 mm and a depth of 100 μm was formed on the opposite surface of the base 2 along the sides of the base 2 at the inside of the seal portion. As shown in FIG. 6B, the grooves 9a and 9b are formed so that the projections of the grooves 9a and 9b on the substrate surface are aligned inside the seal portion when the substrates 1 and 2 are opposed to each other. The position and length were determined so as to form a closed loop surrounding the display area.
[0104]
  Next, as shown in FIG. 5 (a), a sealant 3 (World Lock No.SD-11Z, manufactured by Kyoritsu Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) is used by using a dispenser so as to form a closed loop along the outer periphery of the substrate 1. ) And heated at 60 ° C. for 3 minutes to level the sealing material 3.
[0105]
  Next, as shown in FIG. 5B, 0.05 wt% spacer particles were mixed in advance along the side of the substrate 1 and inside the position overlapping the groove 9b formed in the substrate 2. The liquid crystal 4 was dripped linearly using the dispenser. At this time, the liquid crystal 4 was drastically weighed in a slightly larger amount than necessary.
[0106]
  Next, the substrates 1 and 2 were superposed with their respective alignment film forming surfaces facing each other. The liquid crystal 4 spreads due to the weight of the substrate 2 superimposed from above, and after waiting for the liquid crystal 4 to reach the grooves 9a and 9b adjacent thereto, the liquid crystal 4 was dropped as shown in FIG. 6 (a). 4 kg / cm of pressure roller 5 having a diameter of 90 mm from the outside of the side seal part²It was pressed and rolled with a pressure of. As a result, the liquid crystal 4 spreads uniformly over the entire display area surrounded by the grooves 9a and 9b, and the excess liquid crystal 4 collected in the grooves 9a and 9b and did not reach the seal portion. In addition, the spacer particles mixed in advance with the liquid crystal 4 spread over the entire display area together with the liquid crystal 4, and between the substrates 1 and 2.InA predetermined gap was formed.
[0107]
  Next, as shown in FIG. 6C, the sealing material 3 was cured in the same manner as in Example 1.
[0108]
  This makes the active matrix system extremely shortofA liquid crystal display element was obtained, and no fine bubbles remained in the region surrounded by the grooves 9a and 9b, including the display region.
[0109]
  Example 4
  The fourth shown in FIG.ExampleAccordingly, an active matrix liquid crystal display element was manufactured.
[0110]
  First, as in Example 3, a pair of upper and lower substrates 1 and 2 constituting an active matrix type liquid crystal display element having grooves 9a and 9b formed in the outer peripheral portion were prepared.
[0111]
  Next, as shown in FIG. 7A, the seal material 3 (World Lock No. SD-11Z manufactured by Kyoritsu Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) was applied to the outer peripheral portion of the base 1 using a dispenser. At that time, the air discharge part 8 was provided in the seal part along one side of the base body 1. The substrate 1 was heated at 60 ° C. for 3 minutes to level the sealing material 3.
[0112]
  Next, the liquid crystal 4 in which 0.05 wt% spacer particles are mixed in advance inside the seal portion along one side facing the side where the air discharge unit 8 of the substrate 1 is provided is dispensed using a dispenser. It was dripped linearly. At this time, the liquid crystal 4 was dripped by roughly weighing a slightly larger amount than necessary.
[0113]
  Next, the substrates 1 and 2 were superposed with their respective alignment film forming surfaces facing each other. The liquid crystal 4 spreads due to the weight of the substrate 2 superimposed from above, and after waiting for the liquid crystal 4 to reach the grooves 9a and 9b adjacent thereto, the liquid crystal 4 was dropped as shown in FIG. 7B. 4 kg / cm of pressure roller 5 having a diameter of 90 mm from the outside of the side seal part²It was pressed and rolled with a pressure of. As a result, the liquid crystal 4 spreads uniformly over the entire display area surrounded by the grooves 9a and 9b, and the excess liquid crystal 4 collected in the grooves 9a and 9b and did not reach the seal portion. In addition, the spacer particles mixed in advance with the liquid crystal 4 spread over the entire display area together with the liquid crystal 4, and between the substrates 1 and 2.InA predetermined gap was formed.
[0114]
  Next, as shown in FIG. 7C, the sealing material 3 was cured in the same manner as in Example 1.
[0115]
  After that, a sealing material is applied to the air discharge part 8 provided in the seal part.TheSealed.
[0116]
  This makes the active matrix system extremely shortofA liquid crystal display element was obtained, and no fine bubbles remained in the region surrounded by the grooves 9a and 9b, including the display region.
[0117]
  Example 5
  The fifth shown in FIG.ExampleAccordingly, an active matrix liquid crystal display element was manufactured.
[0118]
  First, as in Example 3, a pair of upper and lower substrates 1 and 2 constituting an active matrix type liquid crystal display element having grooves 9a and 9b formed in the outer peripheral portion were prepared. However, as shown in FIG. 8, the base 2 was further provided with a groove 9 c having a width of 1 mm and a depth of 100 μm that reaches the edge of the base 2 from one groove 9 b.
[0119]
  Next, a sealant 3 (World Lock No. SD-11Z, manufactured by Kyoritsu Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) was applied using a dispenser so as to form a closed loop along the outer periphery of the substrate 1. The substrate 1 was heated at 60 ° C. for 3 minutes to level the sealing material 3.
[0120]
  Next, along the side of the base 1 facing the side of the base 1 that is overlapped with the side on which the groove 9c of the base 2 is provided, 0.05 wt beforehand inside the position overlapping the groove 9b formed in the base 2 The liquid crystal 4 mixed with% spacer particles was dropped linearly using a dispenser. At this time, the liquid crystal 4 was drastically weighed in a slightly larger amount than necessary.
[0121]
  Next, the substrates 1 and 2 were superposed with their respective alignment film forming surfaces facing each other. The liquid crystal 4 spreads due to the weight of the substrate 2 superimposed from above, and after waiting for the liquid crystal 4 to reach the grooves 9a and 9b adjacent thereto, the diameter of 90 mm is formed from the outside of the seal portion on the side where the liquid crystal 4 is dropped. Pressurizing roller 4kg / cm²It was pressed and rolled with a pressure of. As a result, the liquid crystal 4 spreads uniformly over the entire display area surrounded by the grooves 9a and 9b, and the excess liquid crystal 4 collected in the grooves 9a and 9b and did not reach the seal portion. In addition, the spacer particles mixed in advance with the liquid crystal 4 spread over the entire display area together with the liquid crystal 4, and between the substrates 1 and 2.InA predetermined gap was formed.
[0122]
  Next, the sealing material 3 was cured in the same manner as in Example 1.
[0123]
  Thereafter, a sealing material is applied to the opening of the groove 9c provided in the base 2.TheSealed.
[0124]
  This makes the active matrix system extremely shortofA liquid crystal display element was obtained, and no fine bubbles remained in the region surrounded by the grooves 9a and 9b, including the display region.
[0125]
  Example 6
  As shown in FIG.Examples according to the inventionThus, a simple matrix type liquid crystal display element using a ferroelectric liquid crystal was produced.
[0126]
  First,Example of FIG.A pair of upper and lower substrates 11 and 12 constituting the simple matrix type liquid crystal display element described in the above were prepared. As the alignment film, an oblique SiO deposition film was used. The deposition angle was 85 ° with respect to the normal of the substrate.
[0127]
  Next, as shown in FIG. 9A, the seal material 3 (World Lock No. SD-11Z manufactured by Kyoritsu Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) was applied to the outer peripheral portion of the base 11 using a dispenser. At that time, the air discharge part 8 was provided in the seal part along one side of the base 11. The substrate 11 was heated at 60 ° C. for 3 minutes to level the sealing material 3.
[0128]
  next,By the stage 20 with a built-in heater,While heating the substrate 11 to a temperature 2 ° C. higher than the transition temperature between the smectic A phase and the cholesteric phase of the ferroelectric liquid crystal, a seal portion is formed along one side of the substrate 11 facing the side where the air discharge portion 8 is provided. The ferroelectric liquid crystal 14 previously mixed with 0.05 wt% spacer particles was accurately weighed while keeping the temperature of the cholesteric phase using a heat retaining dispenser, and dropped in a straight line.
[0129]
  Next, the base 12 heated in advance to the same temperature as the base 11 was superposed on the base 11 so that the respective alignment film forming surfaces face each other. After waiting for the ferroelectric liquid crystal 14 to spread by the dead weight of the substrate 12 superimposed from above and to reach the region between the ferroelectric liquid crystal 14 and the seal portion adjacent to the ferroelectric liquid crystal 14, as shown in FIG. As described above, a pressure roller 15 having a diameter of 90 mm, which is heated to the same temperature as the base body 11 with a built-in lamp heater 21 from the outside of the seal portion on the side where the ferroelectric liquid crystal 14 is dropped, is 6 kg / cm.²It was pressed and rolled with a pressure of. As a result, the ferroelectric liquid crystal 14 is spread uniformly over almost the entire area inside the seal portion, and the spacer particles mixed in advance with the ferroelectric liquid crystal 14 are also spread over the entire area inside the seal portion together with the ferroelectric liquid crystal 14. Spread, between bases 11 and 12InA predetermined gap was formed.
[0130]
  Next, as shown in FIG. 9C, after the sealing material 3 was cured in the same manner as in Example 1, the sealing material was applied to the air discharge portion 8 and sealed.
[0131]
  As a result, the simple matrix method can be used in a very short time.ofA liquid crystal display element was obtained. Further, there was no disorder in the seal pattern, and no fine bubbles remained in the area inside the seal portion including the display area. Furthermore, there was no inversion domain around the spacer particles, and display characteristics with good uniformity were obtained.
[0132]
  Example 7
  As shown in FIG.Other examples according to the inventionThus, a simple matrix type liquid crystal display element using a ferroelectric liquid crystal was produced.
[0133]
  First, Example of FIG.A pair of upper and lower substrates 11 and 12 constituting the simple matrix type liquid crystal display element described in the above were prepared. As the alignment film, an oblique SiO deposition film was used. The deposition angle was 85 ° with respect to the normal of the substrate.
[0134]
  However, as shown in FIG. 10B, prior to providing the alignment film on each of the bases 11 and 12, the sealing regions are formed along the two sides where the respective striped transparent electrodes are not provided. A groove (not shown) having a width of 2 mm and a depth of 100 μm was formed in the inner portion. As shown in FIG. 10 (c), when the bases 11 and 12 are made to face each other, these grooves form a closed loop that surrounds the display area on the inner side of the seal portion. The position and length were determined as expected (see FIG. 13).
[0135]
  Next, a sealing material 3 (UV cured type No. 3025H, G manufactured by ThreeBond Co., Ltd.) was applied to the outer peripheral portion of the substrate 11 (line width 200 to 500 μm, height 25 to 60 μm). At that time, the air discharge part 8 was provided in the seal part along one side of the base 11.
[0136]
  Next, a ferroelectric liquid crystal in which 0.01 wt% of titanium oxide (ITOD manufactured by Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd.), which is ultrafine particles, is mixed in advance is kept in the N-phase temperature range (105 to 108 ° C.). After performing ultrasonic dispersion in the state heated at 33, along the side opposite to the side where the air discharge part 8 of the substrate 11 is provided, a straight line (1 line width 2 mm, length 40 to 40 mm) is formed inside the seal part. 50 mm, height 50 to 200 μm).
[0137]
  Next, the base 12 heated in advance to the same temperature as the base 11 was superposed on the base 11 so that the respective alignment film forming surfaces face each other. After waiting for the ferroelectric liquid crystal 14 to spread by the dead weight of the substrate 12 superimposed from above and reaching the groove adjacent to the ferroelectric liquid crystal 14, the seal portion on the side where the ferroelectric liquid crystal 14 is dropped is waited for. A pressure roller 15 having a diameter of 70 mm heated to the same temperature as that of the substrate 11 with a built-in lamp heater is provided at 10 kg / cm²It was pressed and rolled with a pressure of.
[0138]
  The pressure roller 15 is held at a set pressure by an axial load servo (not shown). After the pressure roller 15 passes, the base 12 is held by the auxiliary rollers 22A and 22B.The.
[0139]
  As a result, the ferroelectric liquid crystal 14 is spread uniformly over the entire region surrounded by the groove, and the excess ferroelectric liquid crystal 14 is accumulated in the groove and does not reach the seal portion.InA predetermined gap was formed.
[0140]
  Next, the sealing material 3 was cured in the same manner as in Example 1.
[0141]
  After that, a sealing material is applied to the air discharge part 8.TheSealed.
[0142]
  The liquid crystal display element of Example 7 described above was manufactured by a manufacturing apparatus schematically shown in FIG.
[0143]
  First, the substrate 11 is placed on the moving table 34 by the transfer robot 32 driven by the XY robot 31, and then the sealing material 3 and the liquid crystal 4 are applied in a predetermined pattern on the substrate 11 by the dispenser robot 33. On the other hand, the counter substrate 12 heated in advance to the same temperature as the substrate 11 was superposed by the transfer robot 32. After the liquid crystal is spread to the adjacent groove by its own weight, the upper and lower bases are kept at a predetermined temperature by the heat-retaining dispenser 35, and the moving table 34 is moved in the direction of the arrow (Y direction) while the diameter of 70 mm is added. 10 kg / cm with the pressure roller 20²Pressurization was carried out at the following pressure, and subsequently passed under the auxiliary rollers 22A and 22B to reach a predetermined position.
[0144]
  During the movement by the moving table 34, the substrates 11 and 12 were pressurized by the pressure roller 20 at a predetermined pressure, and further held by the auxiliary rollers 22A and 22B. Then, the UV lamp unit 39 moved in the direction of the arrow, and ultraviolet rays were applied from above the base on the moving table 34 that reached a predetermined position, thereby curing the sealing agent. Thereafter, the air outlet of the sealing agent was sealed by applying a sealing material. At this time, the display area filled with the liquid crystal is shielded by a stainless steel plate having a thickness of 0.3 mm, and the entire substrate is 90 mW / cm.²Irradiation was performed for 20 seconds at an intensity of.
[0145]
  FIG. 12 is a plan view showing the manufacturing apparatus of FIG. 11 in more detail, but the unit temperature of the moving table 34 is kept uniformly at ± 1 ° C., and the transfer robot 32 moved by the XY robot 31 is A drive mechanism (not shown) reciprocates between the initial position and the moving table 34. On the other hand, the moving table 34 is connected to a feed shaft 37 that is rotated by a drive source 36, and the rotation of the feed shaft 37 moves on the rail 38 to an upper position of the drive source 36. The pressure roller 20 has an axial load servo function, an auxiliary roller 22A,22BAt the same time, it is made of a heat-resistant silicon material.
[0146]
  Further, the UV lamp unit 39 connected to the feed shaft 42 rotated by the drive source 41 irradiates the substrates 11 and 12 on the moving table 34 moved above the drive source 36 while being supported by the rail 40. After the irradiation is completed, the moving table 34 and the UV lamp unit 39 are returned to their original positions.
[0147]
  As a result, the simple matrix method can be used in a very short time.ofA liquid crystal display element was obtained, the seal pattern was not disturbed, and no fine bubbles remained in the display area surrounded by the grooves. In addition, there was no inversion domain around the spacer particles, and display characteristics with good uniformity were obtained.
[0148]
  Example 8
  As shown in FIG.ExampleThus, a simple matrix type liquid crystal display element using a ferroelectric liquid crystal was produced.
[0149]
  First, similarly to Examples 6 and 7, a pair of upper and lower substrates 11 and 12 constituting a simple matrix type liquid crystal display element were prepared.
[0150]
  However, as shown in FIG. 13A, prior to the alignment film being provided on each of the bases 11 and 12, the two striped transparent electrodes 106 and 107 are provided along two sides where there are no lead portions. Then, grooves 19a and 19b having a width of 1 mm and a depth of 100 μm were formed in the inner portion of the seal portion. As shown in FIG. 13 (b), these grooves 19a and 19b are formed so that the projections of the grooves 19a and 19b on the substrate surface are aligned inside the seal portion when the substrates 11 and 12 are opposed to each other. The position and length were determined so as to form a closed loop surrounding the display area.
[0151]
  Next, the sealing material 3 (World Lock No. SD-11Z manufactured by Kyoritsu Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) was applied to the outer peripheral portion of the base 11 using a dispenser. At that time, the air discharge part 8 was provided in the seal part along one side of the base 11. This substrate11Was heated at 60 ° C. for 3 minutes to level the sealing material 3.
[0152]
  Next, while heating the substrate 11 to a temperature 2 ° C. higher than the transition temperature between the smectic A phase and the cholesteric phase of the ferroelectric liquid crystal, along the one side facing the side where the air discharge portion 8 of the substrate 11 is provided. The ferroelectric liquid crystal 14 in which 0.05 wt% spacer particles were mixed in advance inside the seal portion was dropped linearly while maintaining the temperature of the cholesteric phase using a heat retaining dispenser. At this time, the ferroelectric liquid crystal 14 was dripped after approximately weighing a slightly larger amount than necessary.
[0153]
  Next, the base 12 heated in advance to the same temperature as the base 11 was superposed on the base 11 so that the respective alignment film forming surfaces face each other. The ferroelectric liquid crystal 14 spreads due to the weight of the substrate 12 superimposed from above, and after waiting for the ferroelectric liquid crystal 14 to reach the grooves 19a and 19b adjacent thereto, the side on which the ferroelectric liquid crystal 14 is dropped is waited for. 6 kg / cm of a 90 mm diameter pressure roller heated to the same temperature as the substrate 11 with a built-in lamp heater²It was pressed and rolled with a pressure of. As a result, the ferroelectric liquid crystal 14 is uniformly spread over the entire region surrounded by the grooves 19a and 19b, and the excess ferroelectric liquid crystal is accumulated in the grooves 19a and 19b and does not reach the seal portion. . In addition, the spacer particles mixed in advance with the ferroelectric liquid crystal 14 spread over the entire display area together with the ferroelectric liquid crystal 14, and between the substrates 11 and 12.InA predetermined gap was formed.
[0154]
  Next, the sealing material 3 was cured in the same manner as in Example 1.
[0155]
  After that, a sealing material is applied to the air discharge part 8.TheSealed.
[0156]
  As a result, the simple matrix method can be used in a very short time.ofA liquid crystal display element was obtained, and no fine bubbles remained in the area surrounded by the grooves 19a and 19b including the display area. In addition, there was no inversion domain around the spacer particles, and display characteristics with good uniformity were obtained.
[0157]
  Example 9
  First, in the same manner as in Example 8, a pair of upper and lower substrates constituting a simple matrix type liquid crystal display element having grooves formed in the outer peripheral portion was prepared.
[0158]
  Next, a sealing material (World Rock No. SD-11Z manufactured by Kyoritsu Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) was applied to the outer peripheral portion of the lower substrate using a dispenser. At that time, an air discharge portion was provided in a seal portion along one side of the lower base. The lower substrate was heated at 60 ° C. for 3 minutes to level the sealing material.
[0159]
  Next, while heating the lower substrate to a temperature 2 ° C. higher than the transition temperature between the smectic A phase and the cholesteric phase of the ferroelectric liquid crystal, along the one side facing the side where the air discharge portion of the lower substrate is provided, A ferroelectric liquid crystal in which 0.05 wt% spacer particles and 0.005 wt% titanium oxide (IT-OD manufactured by Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd.) are mixed in advance inside the seal portion using a heat retaining dispenser. While maintaining the temperature of the cholesteric phase, the solution was dropped linearly. At this time, the ferroelectric liquid crystal was dropped in a slightly larger amount than the required amount.
[0160]
  Next, two substrates were superposed in the same manner as in Example 8, and the pressure roller was pressed and rolled under the same conditions as in Example 8. As a result, the ferroelectric liquid crystal uniformly spreads over the entire region surrounded by the groove, and the excess ferroelectric liquid crystal is accumulated in the groove and does not reach the seal portion. In addition, the spacer particles premixed in the ferroelectric liquid crystal spread over the entire display area together with the ferroelectric liquid crystal, and between the substrates.InA predetermined gap was formed.
[0161]
  Next, the sealing material was cured in the same manner as in Example 1.
[0162]
  After that, apply the sealing material to the air discharge part.TheSealed.
[0163]
  This enables simple gray scale display that can display analog gray scales and display extremely high quality.ofA liquid crystal display element was obtained in a very short time, and no microbubbles remained in the region surrounded by the groove including the display region. In addition, there was no inversion domain around the spacer particles, and display characteristics with good uniformity were obtained.
[0164]
  Example 10
  As a sealing material, World Rock No. 780B-B manufactured by Kyoritsu Chemical Industry Co., Ltd. was used, and the liquid crystal was spread in exactly the same manner as in Example 4 except that prebaking was performed at 90 ° C. for 5 minutes.
[0165]
  Next, 1 kg / cm is applied to the entire surface from the top and bottom of the substrate by heating press.²While the pressure was uniformly applied at a pressure of 150 ° C. for 10 minutes, the sealing material was cured.
[0166]
  Thereafter, a sealing material was applied to the air discharge portion and sealed.
[0167]
  This makes the active matrix system extremely shortofA liquid crystal display element was obtained. The uniformity of the gap between the substrates in the display area was very good, and no fine bubbles remained in the area surrounded by the grooves, including the display area.
[0168]
  Example 11
  As a sealing material, World Rock No. 780B-B manufactured by Kyoritsu Chemical Industry Co., Ltd. was used, and the liquid crystal was spread in exactly the same manner as in Example 9 except that prebaking was performed at 90 ° C. for 5 minutes.
[0169]
  Next, 1 kg / cm is applied to the entire surface from the top and bottom of the substrate by heating press.²While the pressure was uniformly applied at a pressure of 150 ° C. for 10 minutes, the sealing material was cured.
[0170]
  Thereafter, a sealing material was applied to the air discharge portion and sealed.
[0171]
  This enables simple gray scale display that can display analog gray scales and display extremely high quality.ofA liquid crystal display element was obtained in a very short time. The uniformity of the gap between the substrates in the display area was very good, and no fine bubbles remained in the area surrounded by the groove including the display area. In addition, there was no inversion domain around the spacer particles, and display characteristics with good uniformity were obtained.
[0172]
[Effects of the invention]
  As described above, according to the present invention,Heated to the same temperatureAfter the liquid crystal supplied to one end of the pair of substrates is overlaid on both substratesBuilt-in heaterSince it is spread between the substrates by pressurizing with a pressure roller, the liquid crystal can be filled very easily in a short time. At this time, a predetermined gap between the substrates can be obtained by appropriately adjusting the pressing force of the pressure roller and further holding this pressure state with the auxiliary roller. Further, since the bubbles entrained in the liquid crystal are pushed out as the liquid crystal spreads, no fine bubbles remain in the liquid crystal region. Therefore, it becomes possible to manufacture a liquid crystal element having good characteristics in a simple and short manufacturing process, and it is not necessary to use an expensive vacuum device as in the prior art, so that the manufacturing cost can be reduced.
[0173]
  The present invention is particularly effective when applied to a case where a ferroelectric liquid crystal having a high viscosity is generally filled between substrates. By using a ferroelectric liquid crystal for the liquid crystal element, for example, an expensive thin film transistor An inexpensive liquid crystal element that does not use can be provided.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 FirstExample1 is a schematic perspective view showing a method of manufacturing an active matrix type liquid crystal display device according to the order of steps.
FIG. 2 FirstExampleFIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing a method for manufacturing an active matrix liquid crystal display element according to FIG.
FIG. 3 FirstExampleFIG. 6 is a schematic plan view and a cross-sectional view showing a method for manufacturing an active matrix type liquid crystal display element according to FIG.
FIG. 4 SecondExample1 is a schematic perspective view showing a method of manufacturing an active matrix type liquid crystal display device according to the order of steps.
FIG. 5 ThirdExampleFIG. 2 is a schematic plan view and a perspective view showing a method for manufacturing a liquid crystal display element of an active matrix type according to FIG.
FIG. 6 shows the thirdExample1 is a schematic perspective view showing a method of manufacturing an active matrix type liquid crystal display device according to the order of steps.
FIG. 7 shows the fourthExample1 is a schematic perspective view showing a method of manufacturing an active matrix type liquid crystal display device according to the order of steps.
FIG. 8Example2 is a schematic plan view showing a structure of a substrate of an active matrix type liquid crystal display element according to FIG.
FIG. 9 shows the first of the present invention.1ofExample1 is a schematic perspective view showing a method of manufacturing a simple matrix type liquid crystal display device according to the order of steps.
FIG. 10 shows the first of the present invention.2ofExample1 is a schematic perspective view showing a method of manufacturing a simple matrix type liquid crystal display device according to the order of steps.
FIG. 11 shows the first of the present invention.2ofExampleIt is the schematic which shows the manufacturing apparatus of the liquid crystal display element of a simple matrix type by.
12 is a detailed plan view of FIG. 11;
FIG. 13 shows the first of the present invention.3ofExample2 is a schematic plan view showing a structure of a substrate of a simple matrix type liquid crystal display element according to FIG.
[Explanation of symbols]
1, 2, 11, 12 ... base, 3 ... sealing material, 4 ... liquid crystal, 5 ... pressure roller,
7 ... UV lamp, 8 ... Air exhaust, 9a, 9b, 9c, 19a, 19b ... Groove,
14 ... Ferroelectric liquid crystal, 15 ... Pressure roller with built-in heater, 20 ... Stage with built-in heater
22A, 22B ... auxiliary roller, 31 ... XY robot, 32 ... transfer robot,
33 ... dispenser robot, 34 ... moving table, 35 ... thermal insulation dispenser,
39 ... UV lamp unit

Claims (21)

A liquid crystal in which a pair of substrates arranged opposite to each other at a predetermined interval are fixed to each other in an adhesion region provided along the outer periphery thereof, and liquid crystal is sealed in a liquid crystal region inside the adhesion region between the pair of substrates. A method of manufacturing an element,
Applying a curable adhesive to the adhesion region of at least one of the pair of substrates;
Supplying a predetermined amount of liquid crystal to one end of the liquid crystal region of at least one of the pair of substrates;
Placing the pair of substrates facing each other with the curable adhesive and the liquid crystal sandwiched therebetween,
Heating the pair of opposed substrates to the same temperature;
The oppositely disposed pair of substrates at least one of the one end and the other end portion a pressure roller of the heater built in the direction from the liquid crystal region on the substrate by relatively rolling, this time, the pressure Heating the pressure roller to the same temperature as the base by a built-in heater, and spreading the liquid crystal from the one end to the entire liquid crystal region;
And a step of curing the curable adhesive.   The method for manufacturing a liquid crystal element according to claim 1, wherein the liquid crystal region is a display region.   When the pressure roller relatively rolls on at least one of the pair of opposed substrates, it is close to the edge of the one substrate outside the one end of the liquid crystal region. The method for manufacturing a liquid crystal element according to claim 1, wherein the liquid crystal element is relatively rolled from the position to the other end of the liquid crystal region.   The manufacturing method according to claim 1, wherein the relatively moving base body is pressurized with the pressure roller in the moving direction, and further this pressure state is held with an auxiliary roller.   The manufacturing method according to claim 4, wherein the pressure roller is formed to have a large diameter, and the auxiliary roller is formed to have a smaller diameter than the pressure roller.   2. The liquid crystal according to claim 1, wherein when applying the curable adhesive to the adhesive region, at least one air discharge portion that does not apply the curable adhesive is provided in the vicinity of the other end portion of the liquid crystal region. Device manufacturing method.   A groove is provided between the liquid crystal region and the adhesion region on an opposing surface of at least one of the pair of substrates, and at least the excess liquid crystal is accommodated in the groove when the liquid crystal is spread. Item 2. A method for producing a liquid crystal element according to Item 1.   The method for manufacturing a liquid crystal element according to claim 7, wherein when the pair of substrates are opposed to each other, the groove is continuous so as to surround the liquid crystal region in a closed loop shape when seen in a plan view.   An air discharge groove extending to the edge of the one base is provided continuously to the groove formed on the facing surface of at least one base of the pair of bases, and is pushed out by the liquid crystal when the liquid crystal is spread. The method for manufacturing a liquid crystal element according to claim 7, wherein the discharged air is discharged from the air discharge groove.   The method for manufacturing a liquid crystal element according to claim 7, wherein a groove having a width of 200 μm or more and a depth of 20 μm or more is formed as the groove.   The method for manufacturing a liquid crystal element according to claim 1, wherein a ferroelectric liquid crystal is used as the liquid crystal.   The method for producing a liquid crystal element according to claim 11, wherein fine particles having an average primary particle size of 1 μm or less are mixed in the liquid crystal. Transition between the time to spread the liquid crystal, and a cholesteric phase and an isotropic phase between the transition temperature and 4 ° C. higher temperature than that between the smelling click Chick A phase and the cholesteric phase of the liquid crystal material The method for producing a liquid crystal element according to claim 11, wherein the substrate is heated to a temperature or lower.   2. The curable adhesive is cured after the step of spreading the liquid crystal while the pair of oppositely arranged substrates are uniformly pressed from both sides or after being pressed. Liquid crystal element manufacturing method. A liquid crystal in which a pair of substrates arranged opposite to each other at a predetermined interval are fixed to each other in an adhesion region provided along the outer periphery thereof, and liquid crystal is sealed in a liquid crystal region inside the adhesion region between the pair of substrates. A device manufacturing apparatus,
Application means for applying a curable adhesive to the adhesion region of at least one of the pair of substrates;
Supply means for supplying a predetermined amount of liquid crystal to one end of the liquid crystal region of at least one of the pair of substrates;
Arranging means for opposingly arranging the pair of substrates with the curable adhesive and the liquid crystal interposed therebetween,
Heating means for heating the pair of opposed substrates disposed at the same temperature;
Over at least one of the substrate arranged to face said pair of substrates and the relative rolling from one end toward the other end portion of the liquid crystal region, in this case, the same temperature as the substrate by internal heaters A pressure roller with a built-in heater that is heated to spread the liquid crystal from the one end to the entire liquid crystal region;
An apparatus for manufacturing a liquid crystal element, comprising: curing means for curing the curable adhesive. The liquid crystal element manufacturing apparatus according to claim 15 , wherein the liquid crystal region is a display region. When the pressure roller relatively rolls on at least one of the pair of opposed substrates, the edge of the one substrate outside the one end of the liquid crystal region is closer to the edge. The apparatus for manufacturing a liquid crystal element according to claim 15 , wherein the apparatus is relatively rolled from the position to the other end of the liquid crystal region. Said pressure roller for pressing said substrate moving relative to the moving direction, that having a auxiliary roller for holding a pressurized state by and the pressure roller provided on the downstream side, to claim 15 The manufacturing apparatus of the described liquid crystal element. The liquid crystal element manufacturing apparatus according to claim 18 , wherein the pressure roller is formed to have a large diameter, and the auxiliary roller is formed to have a smaller diameter than the pressure roller. When the liquid crystal is spread, between and cholesteric phase and an isotropic phase between the transition temperature and 4 ° C. higher temperature than that between the smelling click Chick A phase and the cholesteric phase of the liquid crystal material The apparatus for manufacturing a liquid crystal element according to claim 15 , wherein the substrate is heated to a transition temperature or lower. The curable adhesive is cured after the step of spreading the liquid crystal, while the pair of oppositely arranged substrates are uniformly pressed from both sides or after being pressed. Item 16. A liquid crystal device manufacturing apparatus according to Item 15 .

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