JP5449930B2 - Liquid crystal display - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a liquid crystal display device, for example, a liquid crystal display device using a vertical alignment (VA) mode.

  Liquid crystal display devices are utilized in various fields as display devices for OA equipment such as personal computers and televisions, taking advantage of features such as light weight, thinness, and low power consumption. In recent years, liquid crystal display devices are also used as mobile terminal devices such as mobile phones, display devices such as car navigation devices and game machines.

  Such a liquid crystal display device is required to improve display quality such as an increase in viewing angle and an improvement in contrast ratio. In a multi-domain vertical alignment (MVA) mode liquid crystal display device having a plurality of domains having different alignment directions in one pixel, the viewing angle is compensated for by the plurality of domains, and vertical alignment processing is adopted. The liquid crystal molecules in the vicinity of the alignment film surface are aligned substantially perpendicular to the main surface of the substrate, and the birefringence of the liquid crystal layer becomes almost zero, so that a sufficient black can be displayed and a high contrast ratio can be obtained. Yes.

  In such an MVA mode, the alignment film does not regulate the tilt direction of the liquid crystal molecules. Therefore, this MVA mode does not require an alignment process step represented by rubbing, which is absolutely necessary in the horizontal alignment method represented by twisted nematic (TN). Therefore, in terms of process, problems such as generation of static electricity and dust due to the rubbing process are solved, and a cleaning process after the alignment process is unnecessary. Further, there is no problem of display unevenness due to pretilt variations in orientation, and there is an advantage that the cost can be reduced by simplifying the process and improving the yield.

  As an MVA mode liquid crystal display device, for example, according to Patent Document 1, a semi-transmissive liquid crystal display device in which each pixel is composed of a transmissive display portion and a reflective display portion is adjacent to the row direction or the column direction. A technique is disclosed in which the arrangement of the transmissive display portion and the reflective display portion is opposite to each other, and a viewing angle compensation effect is obtained.

JP 2008-129325 A

  An object of the present invention is to provide a liquid crystal display device with good display quality.

According to one aspect of the invention,
An array substrate having a first pixel electrode and a second pixel electrode arranged in a first direction;
A counter substrate comprising a counter electrode facing the first pixel electrode and the second pixel electrode;
The substrate is held between the array substrate and the counter substrate, and is substantially perpendicular to the main surface of the substrate when no electric field is formed between the first pixel electrode, the second pixel electrode, and the counter electrode. A liquid crystal layer containing liquid crystal molecules to be aligned;
A first segment facing and extending in the first direction across each intermediate portion of the first pixel electrode and the second pixel electrode, and extending in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction and the first A second segment orthogonal to the segment and opposed between the first pixel electrode and the second pixel electrode; and the first segment extending on the same straight line as the second segment and spaced from the second segment A third segment facing between each of the electrodes and the upper part of the second pixel electrode; and extending on the same straight line as the second segment and spaced from the second segment; An alignment control means including a fourth segment facing between the lower portions of each of the pixel electrodes;
A liquid crystal display device is provided.

According to another aspect of the invention,
The first pixel electrode, the second pixel electrode adjacent to the first direction of the first pixel electrode, and the second direction of the first pixel electrode are arranged in a matrix in a first direction and a second direction orthogonal to each other. An array substrate having a pixel electrode including a third pixel electrode arranged in a row;
A counter substrate including a counter electrode facing the pixel electrode;
A liquid crystal layer that is held between the array substrate and the counter substrate and includes liquid crystal molecules that are aligned substantially perpendicular to the main surface of the substrate when no electric field is formed between the pixel electrode and the counter electrode. When,
The second pixel electrode is not formed on one end side of the first pixel electrode but is opposed to straddle between the other end side of the first pixel electrode and one end side of the second pixel electrode, and extends in the second direction. An orientation control means facing the one end side of the third pixel electrode and extending in the second direction without being formed on the other end side of the three pixel electrode;
A liquid crystal display device is provided.

According to another aspect of the invention,
An array substrate having a first pixel electrode and a second pixel electrode arranged in a first direction;
A counter substrate comprising a counter electrode facing the first pixel electrode and the second pixel electrode;
The substrate is held between the array substrate and the counter substrate, and is substantially perpendicular to the main surface of the substrate when no electric field is formed between the first pixel electrode, the second pixel electrode, and the counter electrode. A liquid crystal layer containing liquid crystal molecules to be aligned;
The second pixel electrode is not formed on one end side at the upper part of the first pixel electrode, and is opposed to the one end side at the upper part of the second pixel electrode and extends in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, The lower end of the first pixel electrode is not formed on the other end side and faces one end side and extends in the second direction, and the lower portion of the second pixel electrode is not formed on the one end side but on the other end side. Orientation control means facing and extending in the second direction;
A liquid crystal display device is provided.

According to another aspect of the invention,
An array substrate having a first pixel electrode and a second pixel electrode arranged in a first direction;
A counter substrate comprising a counter electrode facing the first pixel electrode and the second pixel electrode;
The substrate is held between the array substrate and the counter substrate, and is substantially perpendicular to the main surface of the substrate when no electric field is formed between the first pixel electrode, the second pixel electrode, and the counter electrode. A liquid crystal layer containing liquid crystal molecules to be aligned;
A first segment facing the first pixel electrode and the second pixel electrode and extending in the first direction, and spaced apart from the first segment and facing the first pixel electrode in the first direction and the first direction A cross-shaped second segment extending in a second direction orthogonal to the one direction, and a cross-shaped second segment spaced from the first segment and facing the second pixel electrode and extending in the first direction and the second direction. An orientation control means comprising a third segment;
A liquid crystal display device is provided.

  According to the present invention, a liquid crystal display device with good display quality can be provided.

FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of an MVA mode liquid crystal display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the structure of the array substrate and the counter substrate applied to the liquid crystal display device shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a configuration example applicable as the orientation control means in the present embodiment. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing another configuration example applicable as the orientation control means in the present embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically illustrating a pixel configuration of a part of the active area in the liquid crystal display device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the alignment direction of liquid crystal molecules in some pixels of the active area shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically illustrating a pixel configuration of a part of the active area in the liquid crystal display device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically showing another pixel configuration of a part of the active area in the liquid crystal display device of the second embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically showing a pixel configuration of a part of the active area in the liquid crystal display device of the third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating a partial pixel configuration of the active area in the liquid crystal display device according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically showing another pixel configuration of a part of the active area in the liquid crystal display device of the fourth embodiment.

  A liquid crystal display device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Here, a transmissive liquid crystal display device configured as a transmissive display unit in which each pixel selectively transmits backlight and displays an image will be described as an example.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the liquid crystal display device is an active matrix type liquid crystal display device and includes a liquid crystal display panel LPN. The liquid crystal display panel LPN includes a pair of substrates, that is, an array substrate AR as a first substrate, and a counter substrate CT as a second substrate disposed to face the array substrate AR. The array substrate AR and the counter substrate CT are bonded together by a sealing material (not shown). The liquid crystal display panel LPN includes a liquid crystal layer LQ held between the array substrate AR and the counter substrate CT.

  Such a liquid crystal display panel LPN includes a display area for displaying an image, that is, an active area DSP. This active area DSP is composed of a plurality of pixels PX arranged in an m × n matrix (where m and n are positive integers). That is, in the active area DSP, m pixels PX are arranged in the first direction D1 to form a row H, and n pixels PX are arranged in the second direction D2 to form a column V.

  In the active area DSP, the array substrate AR includes n gate lines Y (Y1 to Yn) extending along the first direction D1, and m source lines X extending along the second direction D2, respectively. (X1 to Xm), in each pixel PX, m × n switching elements W arranged in a region including the intersection of the gate line Y and the source line X, arranged in each pixel PX, and connected to the switching element W Similarly to the m × n pixel electrodes EP and the gate lines Y, there are provided auxiliary capacitance lines AY that are capacitively coupled to the pixel electrodes EP so as to form auxiliary capacitances CS extending in the first direction D1.

  The gate line Y, the source line X, and the auxiliary capacitance line AY are formed of a low-resistance conductive material such as aluminum, molybdenum, tungsten, or titanium.

  Each switching element W is configured by, for example, an n-channel thin film transistor. The gate electrode WG of the switching element W is electrically connected to the gate line Y (or the gate electrode WG is formed integrally with the gate line Y). The source electrode WS of the switching element W is electrically connected to the source line X (or the source electrode WS is formed integrally with the source line X). The drain electrode WD of the switching element W is electrically connected to the pixel electrode EP.

  The pixel electrode EP is formed of a light-transmitting conductive material such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or indium zinc oxide (IZO).

  Each of the n gate lines Y is drawn to the outside of the active area DSP and is connected to the gate driver YD. Note that at least a part of the gate driver YD may be provided in the array substrate AR. The gate driver YD sequentially supplies scanning signals (drive signals) to the n gate lines Y based on control by the controller CNT.

  In addition, m source lines X are respectively drawn outside the active area DSP and connected to the source driver XD. Note that at least a part of the source driver XD may be provided on the array substrate AR. The source driver XD supplies video signals (drive signals) to the m source lines X at a timing when the switching elements W in each row are turned on by the scanning signal based on the control by the controller CNT. Thereby, the pixel electrode EP of each row is set to a pixel potential corresponding to the video signal supplied via the corresponding switching element W.

  On the other hand, the counter substrate CT includes a counter electrode ET and the like in the active area DSP. The counter electrode ET is formed of a light-transmitting conductive material such as ITO or IZO. The counter electrode ET is common to the plurality of pixels PX. That is, the counter electrode ET is opposed to the pixel electrode EP of each pixel PX and is electrically connected to the common terminal COM having a common potential.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the array substrate AR of the liquid crystal display panel LPN is formed by using an insulating substrate 10 having a light transmission property such as a glass plate or a quartz plate. The array substrate AR includes a switching element W, a pixel electrode EP, and the like on the side of the insulating substrate 10 facing the counter substrate CT.

  The switching element W includes a semiconductor layer 12 disposed on the insulating substrate 10. The semiconductor layer 12 can be formed of, for example, polysilicon or amorphous silicon, and is formed of polysilicon here. The semiconductor layer 12 has a source region 12S and a drain region 12D on both sides of the channel region 12C. The semiconductor layer 12 is covered with a gate insulating film 14. The gate insulating film 14 is also disposed on the insulating substrate 10. The gate insulating film 14 is formed of an inorganic material such as silicon oxide and silicon nitride, for example.

  The gate electrode WG of the switching element W is disposed on the gate insulating film 14 and is located immediately above the channel region 12 </ b> C of the semiconductor layer 12. For example, the gate electrode WG can be formed in the same process using the same material as the gate line described above, and can be formed integrally with the gate line. Such a gate electrode WG is covered with an interlayer insulating film 16 together with a gate line and the like. This interlayer insulating film 16 is also disposed on the gate insulating film 14. The interlayer insulating film 16 is formed of an inorganic material such as silicon oxide and silicon nitride, for example.

  The source electrode WS and the drain electrode WD of the switching element W are disposed on the interlayer insulating film 16. The source electrode WS is in contact with the source region 12S of the semiconductor layer 12 through a contact hole that penetrates the gate insulating film 14 and the interlayer insulating film 16. The drain electrode WD is in contact with the drain region 12D of the semiconductor layer 12 through a contact hole that penetrates the gate insulating film 14 and the interlayer insulating film 16. These source electrode WS and drain electrode WD can be formed in the same process using the same material as the source line described above, for example. The source electrode WS can be formed integrally with the source line. These source electrode WS and drain electrode WD are covered with an insulating film 18 together with a source line and the like.

  The insulating film 18 is made of, for example, an organic material having optical transparency. Such an insulating film 18 is formed, for example, by being applied by a technique such as spin coating and then being cured. For this reason, the insulating film 18 absorbs the unevenness of the base, and its surface is formed to be substantially flat. Thereby, the influence on the electric field for realizing the vertical alignment mode is mitigated.

  The pixel electrode EP is disposed in each pixel PX in the active area DSP. That is, the pixel electrode EP is disposed on the insulating film 18 and is electrically connected to the drain electrode WD through a contact hole formed in the insulating film 18.

  The surface of the array substrate AR facing the counter substrate CT, that is, the surface in contact with the liquid crystal layer LQ is covered with the first alignment film 20. The first alignment film 20 covers the pixel electrode EP.

  On the other hand, the counter substrate CT of the liquid crystal display panel LPN is formed using an insulating substrate 30 having optical transparency such as a glass plate or a quartz plate. The counter substrate CT includes a color filter layer 34, a counter electrode ET, and the like on the side of the insulating substrate 30 facing the array substrate AR.

  The color filter layer 34 is disposed in each pixel PX. Such a color filter layer 34 is disposed on the insulating substrate 30. These color filter layers 34 are formed of resin materials colored in a plurality of different colors, for example, three primary colors such as red, blue, and green. That is, a resin material colored in red, a resin material colored in green, and a resin material colored in blue are arranged in a pixel displaying red, a pixel displaying green, and a pixel PX displaying blue. Yes.

  The counter electrode ET is disposed on the color filter layer 34. Such a counter electrode ET is opposed to the pixel electrode EP of each pixel PX.

  The color filter layer 34 is disposed on the counter substrate CT side, but may be disposed on the array substrate AR side. In this case, the insulating film 18 and the like in the array substrate AR can be replaced with the color filter layer 34. Further, on the counter substrate CT, an overcoat layer made of a transparent resin material is disposed between the color filter layer 34 and the counter electrode ET in order to reduce the influence of the unevenness on the surface of the color filter layer 34. Also good.

  The surface of the counter substrate CT facing the array substrate AR, that is, the surface in contact with the liquid crystal layer LQ is covered with the second alignment film 36. The second alignment film 36 covers the counter electrode ET.

  The array substrate AR and the counter substrate CT as described above are arranged so that the first alignment film 20 and the second alignment film 36 face each other. At this time, between the first alignment film 20 of the array substrate AR and the second alignment film 36 of the counter substrate CT, a spacer (not shown) (for example, a columnar spacer formed integrally with one substrate by a resin material). Thus, a predetermined cell gap is formed.

  The liquid crystal layer LQ is enclosed in the cell gap described above. That is, the liquid crystal layer LQ is made of a liquid crystal composition including the liquid crystal molecules 40 held between the pixel electrodes EP of the array substrate AR and the counter electrode ET of the counter substrate CT. The liquid crystal molecules 40 have, for example, negative dielectric anisotropy. The first alignment film 20 is interposed between the liquid crystal layer LQ and the pixel electrode EP. A second alignment film 36 is interposed between the liquid crystal layer LQ and the counter electrode ET.

  The first alignment film 20 and the second alignment film 36 are in a state where no potential difference is formed between the pixel electrode EP and the counter electrode ET, that is, an electric field is formed between the pixel electrode EP and the counter electrode ET. When there is no electric field, the liquid crystal molecules 40 are aligned substantially perpendicular to the main surface of the insulating substrate 10 (or array substrate AR) and the main surface of the insulating substrate 30 (or counter substrate CT). Yes. The material for forming the first alignment film 20 and the second alignment film 36 is not particularly limited as long as it is a light-transmitting thin film basically exhibiting vertical alignment.

  The first alignment film 20 and the second alignment film 36 do not require an alignment process step represented by rubbing. For this reason, there is no problem that static electricity and dust are generated by rubbing in terms of process, and a cleaning step after the alignment treatment is unnecessary. Further, there is no problem of unevenness due to pretilt variations in orientation. Therefore, there is an advantage that the cost can be reduced by simplifying the process and improving the yield.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the backlight BL that illuminates the liquid crystal display panel LPN is disposed on the side of the liquid crystal display panel LPN facing the array substrate AR. As such a backlight BL, various forms can be applied, and any one using a light-emitting diode or a cold cathode tube as a light source can be applied. Description is omitted.

  A first optical element OD1 having a first polarizing plate PL1 is disposed on one outer surface of the liquid crystal display panel LPN, that is, the outer surface of the array substrate AR. A second optical element OD2 having a second polarizing plate PL2 is disposed on the other outer surface of the liquid crystal display panel LPN, that is, the outer surface of the counter substrate CT.

  The first polarizing plate PL1 and the second polarizing plate PL2 are arranged so that their absorption axes are orthogonal to each other. The first optical element OD1 and the second optical element OD2 use a retardation plate in a linear polarization mode in which light passing through the liquid crystal layer LQ is linearly polarized light and selectively transmits the linearly polarized light to display an image. Although not required, in the circular polarization mode in which the light passing through the liquid crystal layer LQ is circularly polarized light and selectively transmits this circularly polarized light to display an image, a retardation plate is provided between the polarizing plate and the insulating substrate. ing.

  In this embodiment, the liquid crystal molecules 40 included in the liquid crystal layer LQ have their major axes substantially perpendicular to the main surface of the substrate by the alignment control by the first alignment film 20 and the second alignment film 36 when there is no electric field. Is aligned substantially in parallel with the normal direction (or the normal direction of the liquid crystal display panel LPN). In such a state, the backlight light (for example, linearly polarized light) transmitted through the first optical element OD1 is absorbed by the second optical element OD2 after passing through the liquid crystal layer LQ. Therefore, the transmittance of the liquid crystal display panel LPN is the lowest. That is, a black screen is displayed.

  On the other hand, in a state where an electric field is formed between the pixel electrode EP and the counter electrode ET, the liquid crystal molecules 40 having negative dielectric anisotropy are aligned in a direction substantially orthogonal to the electric field. With respect to the electric field inclined with respect to the normal line of the liquid crystal display panel LPN, the liquid crystal molecules 40 are aligned in the direction in which the major axis is substantially parallel to or inclined with respect to the main surface of the substrate.

  In such a state, the backlight light transmitted through the first optical element OD1 becomes linearly polarized light, and at least part of the second optical element is provided with an appropriate phase difference when transmitted through the liquid crystal layer LQ. OD2 can be transmitted. Therefore, a white screen is displayed.

  In this way, a normally black vertical alignment mode using linearly polarized light is realized. When the linearly polarized light is used, the configuration of the first optical element OD1 and the second optical element OD2 is simplified as compared with the case where circularly polarized light is used (the retardation plate can be omitted), so that the cost can be reduced. Is possible. Further, when linearly polarized light is used, there is an advantage that a wide viewing angle and high contrast can be achieved compared with the case where circularly polarized light is used. On the other hand, when linearly polarized light is used, dark lines are generated due to the presence of liquid crystal molecules aligned in a direction substantially parallel to the absorption axes of the first polarizing plate PL1 and the second polarizing plate PL2, and the transmittance is reduced. There is a fear.

  In this embodiment, the liquid crystal display panel LPN includes an alignment control means for controlling the alignment of the liquid crystal molecules 40. Such an orientation control means will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, only the configuration necessary for the description is shown.

  In the example shown in FIG. 3, the orientation control means ALC is configured by a slit SL formed in the counter electrode ET. The slit SL is disposed between two adjacent pixels PX. That is, the slit SL is opposed to the first pixel electrode EP1 arranged in one pixel PX and the second pixel electrode EP2 arranged in the other pixel PX adjacent thereto.

  The slit SL is formed to have a width SLW larger than the interval EPW between the first pixel electrode EP1 and the second pixel electrode EP2. For this reason, a part of the slit SL faces the peripheral edge E1 of the first pixel electrode EP1 and the peripheral edge E2 of the second pixel electrode EP2 across the liquid crystal layer LQ.

  When a potential difference is formed between the first pixel electrode EP1 and the second pixel electrode EP2 and the counter electrode ET, an electric field is formed so as to avoid the slit SL. That is, between the vicinity of the peripheral edge E1 of the first pixel electrode EP1 and the counter electrode ET, and between the vicinity of the peripheral edge E2 of the second pixel electrode EP2 and the counter electrode ET, the normal line of the substrate main surface PL is present. A gradient electric field that is inclined with respect to the substrate can be formed.

  The liquid crystal molecules 40 in the vicinity of the slit SL that have been aligned substantially parallel to the normal line of the substrate main surface PL when there is no electric field are aligned in a predetermined direction substantially orthogonal to such a gradient electric field. That is, in the pixels PX adjacent to each other with the slit SL interposed therebetween, electric fields inclined in the opposite directions are formed with respect to the slit SL, so that the liquid crystal molecules 40 of the respective pixels PX are also aligned in the opposite directions. The alignment state of the liquid crystal molecules 40 due to such a gradient electric field propagates not only in the vicinity of the slit SL but also in the center of the pixel PX. For this reason, substantially the entire liquid crystal molecules 40 of each pixel PX are aligned in substantially the same direction.

  In the example shown in FIG. 4, the alignment control means ALC is configured by a protrusion CP provided on the counter substrate CT. The protrusion CP is formed on the surface of the counter substrate CT facing the array substrate AR, here, on the counter electrode ET. Similar to the example shown in FIG. 3, the protrusion CP is disposed between two adjacent pixels PX, and the first pixel electrode EP1 disposed in one pixel PX and the other adjacent to the first pixel PX. It faces between the second pixel electrode EP2 arranged in the pixel PX.

  The protrusion CP is formed to have a width CPW larger than the interval EPW between the first pixel electrode EP1 and the second pixel electrode EP2. Therefore, a part of the projection CP faces the peripheral edge E1 of the first pixel electrode EP1 and the peripheral edge E2 of the second pixel electrode EP2 with the liquid crystal layer LQ interposed therebetween. In the orientation control means ALC having such a configuration, a gradient electric field similar to the example shown in FIG. 3 can be formed.

When the protrusion CP is applied as the orientation control means ALC, the protrusion CP is formed of an insulating film. As the insulating film, for example, inorganic materials such as SiO ₂ , SiN _x , and Al ₂ O ₃ , organic materials such as polyimide, photoresist resin, and polymer liquid crystal can be used. When the protrusion CP is an inorganic material, it can be formed by vapor deposition, sputtering, CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition), or solution coating. Further, when the protrusion CP is an organic material, it is applied by a spinner coating method, a screen printing coating method, a roll coating method, or the like using a solution in which an organic substance is dissolved or a precursor solution thereof, and a predetermined curing condition ( It can be formed by a method of curing by heating, light irradiation, or the like, or a vapor deposition method, a sputtering method, a CVD method, an LB (Langumura-Blodgett) method, or the like.

<< First Embodiment >>
The first embodiment has a configuration applied to a normally black vertical alignment mode using linearly polarized light.

  FIG. 5 illustrates a partial pixel configuration of the active area DSP. Each pixel PX includes at least the pixel electrode EP, the liquid crystal layer LQ, and the counter electrode ET. Here, only the pixel electrode EP is illustrated. The gate line Y1, the auxiliary capacitance line AY1, the gate line Y2, and the auxiliary capacitance line AY2 each extend along the first direction D1. The source lines X1 to X5 each extend along the second direction D2.

  In such an active area DSP, the pixel PX11, the pixel PX12, the pixel PX13, and the pixel PX14 are arranged in this order along the first direction D1. Further, in the second direction D2 of the pixel PX11, the pixel PX12, the pixel PX13, and the pixel PX14, the pixel PX21, the pixel PX22, the pixel PX23, and the pixel PX24 are arranged side by side, respectively. In other words, in the active area DSP shown here, the pixels PX arranged in a 4 × 2 matrix are shown.

  In the case of a color display type liquid crystal display device, for example, the pixel PX11 corresponds to a red pixel, the pixel PX12 corresponds to a green pixel, the pixel PX13 corresponds to a blue pixel, and the pixel PX14 corresponds to a red pixel again. In addition, combinations of red pixels, green pixels, and blue pixels arranged in the first direction D1 are repeatedly arranged in the first direction D1.

  Naturally, when the pixel PX11 and the pixel PX14 correspond to a green pixel, the pixel PX12 and the pixel PX13 may correspond to a blue pixel and a red pixel, respectively, and when the pixel PX11 and the pixel PX14 correspond to a blue pixel, The pixel PX12 and the pixel PX13 may correspond to a green pixel and a red pixel, respectively. Note that pixels of the same color are arranged side by side along the second direction D2.

  A pixel electrode EP is disposed in each pixel PX. Each pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX11 and the pixel PX21 is disposed between the source line X1 and the source line X2. Each pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX12 and the pixel PX22 is disposed between the source line X2 and the source line X3. Each pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX13 and the pixel PX23 is disposed between the source line X3 and the source line X4. Each pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX14 and the pixel PX24 is disposed between the source line X4 and the source line X5.

  Each pixel electrode EP is formed in a substantially rectangular shape, and has a pair of short sides SS substantially parallel to the first direction D1 and a pair of long sides LS substantially parallel to the second direction D2. The intermediate portion MD of the pixel electrode EP is a region including the midpoint LM of the long side LS. The upper part UP of the pixel electrode EP is a region from the upper short side SS in the drawing to a predetermined distance along the second direction D2, and is separated from the intermediate part MD. The lower LW of the pixel electrode EP is a region from the lower short side SS in the drawing to a predetermined distance along the second direction D2, and is separated from the intermediate part MD. Here, the predetermined distance corresponds to a distance shorter than the distance from the short side SS to the intermediate part MD.

  The orientation control means ALC is composed of a first segment SG1, a second segment SG2, a third segment SG3, and a fourth segment.

  The first segment SG1 faces the intermediate part MD of each of the two adjacent pixel electrodes EP and extends in the first direction D1. The first segment SG1 is formed discontinuously along the first direction D1. Here, the first segment SG1 faces the pixel electrode EP of the adjacent pixel PX11 and the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX12 across the source line X2. The first segment SG1 faces the pixel electrode EP of the adjacent pixel PX13 and the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX14 across the source line X4. That is, the first segment SG1 is arranged so as to intersect even-numbered source lines (X2, X4, X6,...), While odd-numbered source lines (X1, X3, X5,...). Does not cross).

  In addition, the first segment SG1 is disposed across the midpoint LM of each of the long sides LS facing each other between two adjacent pixel electrodes EP. On the other hand, as described above, the first segment SG1 is formed discontinuously along the first direction D1, and does not cross the entire pixel electrode EP. That is, on the extension line along the first direction D1 of the first segment SG1 (for example, the region surrounded by the broken line AX in FIG. 5), each pixel electrode EP and the counter electrode ET (not shown) Opposite without intervening.

  Each first segment SG1 is located immediately above each of the auxiliary capacitance lines AY1 and AY2. These auxiliary capacitance lines AY1 and AY2 pass through the intermediate portion MD of each pixel electrode EP, traverse the entire pixel electrode EP, and extend along the first direction D1. Each of the storage capacitor lines AY1 and AY2 has a width along the second direction D2 larger than the width along the second direction D2 of the first segment SG1. That is, the entire first segment SG1 is located immediately above the auxiliary capacitance line AY1 or AY2.

  The second segment SG2, the third segment SG3, and the fourth segment SG4 face each other between two adjacent pixel electrodes EP, and extend on the same straight line along the second direction D2. The second segment SG2, the third segment SG3, and the fourth segment SG4 are formed discontinuously along the second direction D2. Here, the second segment SG2, the third segment SG3, and the fourth segment SG4 are arranged so as to face the even-numbered source lines (X2, X4, X6,. It does not face the source lines (X1, X3, X5,...).

  The second segment SG2 is orthogonal to the first segment SG1. The third segment SG3 extends on the same straight line as the second segment SG2 and is separated from the second segment SG2, and faces between the upper portions UP of the two adjacent pixel electrodes EP. The fourth segment SG4 extends on the same straight line as the second segment SG2, is spaced from the second segment SG2, and faces between the lower portions LW of the two adjacent pixel electrodes EP.

  The width of the second to fourth segments SG2 to SG4 along the first direction D1 is larger than the interval between two adjacent pixel electrodes EP. Therefore, a part of the second segment SG2, the third segment SG3, and the fourth segment SG4 is a peripheral edge of two adjacent pixel electrodes EP (for example, the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX11 and the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX12). Facing the department.

  For example, the second segment SG2 faces the intermediate portion MD of the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX11 and the intermediate portion MD of the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX12, and is orthogonal to the first segment SG1. The third segment SG3 is opposed to the upper part UP of the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX11 and the upper part UP of the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX12. The fourth segment SG4 faces the lower LW of the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX11 and the lower LW of the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX12.

  Such second to fourth segments SG2 to SG4 are repeatedly arranged along the second direction D2. That is, the second to fourth segments SG2 to SG4 are arranged between the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX11 and the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX12, and between the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX21 and the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX22. It is also placed in between.

  Therefore, the fourth segment SG4 arranged between the pixel electrodes EP of the pixels PX11 and PX12 has an upper portion UP of the pixel electrodes EP of the pixels PX21 and PX22 as shown in FIG. Are connected to the third segment SG3 arranged between them, but they may be separated from each other.

  FIG. 6 illustrates the alignment directions of the liquid crystal molecules in the pixels PX11, PX12, PX13, and PX14 having the above-described configuration. That is, in each pixel PX, the gradient electric field formed by arranging the alignment control means ALC, and the vicinity of the long side LS and the short side SS of each pixel electrode EP and the counter electrode ET are formed. Due to the interaction of the gradient electric field, the liquid crystal molecules of the two pixels PX adjacent to each other across the second to fourth segments SG2 to SG4 in the main surface of the substrate, as indicated by arrows in the figure, They are oriented in directions that are axisymmetric to each other. Further, in the two pixels PX sandwiching the second to fourth segments SG2 to SG4, the respective liquid crystal molecules are oriented toward the intersection where the first segment SG1 and the second segment SG2 intersect. The arrows in the figure correspond to the average azimuth angle direction (main alignment direction) in the main surface of the substrate in which the major axis of the liquid crystal molecules aligned in each pixel PX is oriented. It is not necessarily oriented in the direction of the arrow.

  More specifically, in the upper half of the pixel PX11 and the pixel PX13, the main alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules is 315 degrees with respect to the first direction D1. In the lower half of the pixels PX11 and PX13, the main alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules is an azimuth of 45 degrees with respect to the first direction D1. In the upper half of the pixel PX12 and the pixel PX14, the main alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules is an orientation of 225 degrees with respect to the first direction D1. In the lower half of the pixels PX12 and PX14, the main alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules is an orientation of 135 degrees with respect to the first direction D1.

  The orientation directions of the liquid crystal molecules in the two pixels PX sandwiching the second to fourth segments SG2 to SG4 are approximately 45 degrees to 225 degrees and 135 degrees to 315 degrees with respect to the first direction D1. The absorption axes A1 and A2 of the first polarizing plate PL1 and the second polarizing plate PL2 to be applied are in the first direction (0 ° -180 ° orientation) D1 and the second direction (90 ° -270 °). (Azimuth) is set substantially parallel to D2. For this reason, generation | occurrence | production of the dark line resulting from utilizing a linearly polarized light can be suppressed.

  In particular, since the third segment SG3 and the fourth segment SG4 are respectively disposed in the vicinity of the upper UP and the lower LW of the two pixels PX across the second segment SG2, they are orthogonal to the main alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules. Directional domain formation is suppressed.

  When the third segment SG3 and the fourth segment SG4 are not arranged, two domains whose orientation directions are orthogonal to each other are formed in one region (for example, the upper half region or the lower half region of the pixel). (For example, a domain having a main orientation direction of 45 degrees to 225 degrees and a domain having a main orientation direction of 135 degrees to 315 degrees is formed).

  Since the alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules in one region is continuously changing, the liquid crystal molecules are aligned in the 0 ° -180 ° azimuth or 90 ° -270 ° azimuth in the vicinity of the domain boundary. These orientations are parallel to the orientations of the absorption axes A1 and A2 of the first polarizing plate PL1 and the second polarizing plate PL2, respectively. For this reason, light passing near the boundary of the domain is absorbed by the polarizing plate and becomes a dark line that does not contribute to display.

  On the other hand, when the third segment SG3 and the fourth segment SG4 are arranged in addition to the second segment SG2 along the second direction D2 as in the present embodiment, a plurality of undesired domains in one region. Therefore, the generation of dark lines is suppressed and the transmittance can be improved.

  In the present embodiment, the liquid crystal driving voltages for driving the liquid crystal molecules have the same polarity in the two pixels PX sandwiching the second to fourth segments SG2 to SG4. That is, a voltage of the same polarity is applied to each pixel electrode EP of the two pixels PX across the second to fourth segments SG2 to SG4 with reference to the counter electrode potential.

  For this reason, when the liquid crystal drive voltages of the two pixels PX across the second to fourth segments SG2 to SG4 are the same, the same level of voltage is applied to each pixel electrode EP. A desired lateral electric field is not formed, and the occurrence of alignment failure can be suppressed. Even if the liquid crystal drive voltages of the two pixels PX across the second to fourth segments SG2 to SG4 are different, the pixel electrode potential has the same polarity, so the electric field formed between them is extremely high. Since it is weak and a desired electric field acts on the liquid crystal molecules 40, good display quality can be realized. In the present embodiment, the first segment SG1 is disposed across two pixels PX having the same polarity, and the second to fourth segments SG2 to SG4 are opposed to each other between the two pixels PX having the same polarity. ing.

  Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the pixel PX11 and the pixel PX14 are pixels of the same color. Therefore, the second to fourth segments SG2 to SG4 are arranged on one end side of the pixel PX11, while the second to fourth segments SG2 to SG4 are arranged on the other end side of the pixel PX14.

  According to such a configuration, in the state where the electric field is formed, the liquid crystal molecules of the pixel PX11 are influenced by the alignment control means ALC between the pixel PX12 and average 45 degrees with respect to the first direction D1. A domain oriented in the direction and a domain oriented in the direction of 315 degrees are formed. Further, the liquid crystal molecules of the pixel PX12 form a domain oriented in the 135 degree azimuth and a domain oriented in the 225 degree azimuth. That is, the pixel PX11 and the pixel PX12 are oriented in opposite directions. Similarly, the liquid crystal molecules of the pixel PX13 form a domain oriented in the 45 degree azimuth and a domain oriented in the 315 degree azimuth, and the pixel PX14 is oriented in the 225 degree azimuth and the domain oriented in the 135 degree azimuth. Form a domain. That is, the pixel PX11 and the pixel PX14 are oriented in the opposite directions.

  Thus, by arranging the alignment control means ALC every two pixels, each liquid crystal molecule in the closest pixel of the same color is in a line-symmetrical direction with respect to each other in the main surface of the substrate in a state where an electric field is formed. Orient. Here, the closest pixel is a relationship between the reference pixel (for example, the pixel PX11) and the closest pixel (for example, the pixel PX14) of the same color as the reference pixel arranged along the first direction D1 with respect to the reference pixel. It corresponds to. The relationship between the pixel PX11 and the pixel PX14 can be applied to any of a red pixel, a green pixel, and a blue pixel.

  For the closest pixels of the same color arranged along the first direction D1 as described above, substantially the same gradation is displayed, so that viewing angle compensation is performed using two pixels that display substantially the same color. A possible multi-domain structure has been realized.

  In the example shown in FIG. 5, the case where the first segment SG1 intersects with the even-numbered source line X and the second to fourth segments SG2 to SG4 face the even-numbered source line X has been described. However, the first segment SG1 may intersect with the odd-numbered source line X, and the second to fourth segments SG2 to SG4 may face the odd-numbered source line X.

Example 1
In the first embodiment, a slit SL having a width of 10 μm formed in the counter electrode ET is applied as the alignment control means ALC. In particular, the slit SL is formed in a pattern as shown in FIG. On the array substrate AR and the counter substrate CT, a vertical alignment film was applied to a thickness of 70 nm. The cell gap between the array substrate AR and the counter substrate CT was 3.8 μm. A negative liquid crystal material manufactured by Merck was injected into the cell gap to produce a liquid crystal display panel.

  According to the liquid crystal display panel having such a configuration, in the active area, the alignment state of the liquid crystal molecules in the average azimuth direction of the closest pixel displaying the same color in the first direction D1 is different and point-symmetric. It became.

(Comparative Example 1)
A liquid crystal display panel having the same configuration as in Example 1 was prepared except that the third segment and the fourth segment were omitted as the alignment control means ALC.

  For these Example 1 and Comparative Example 1, the transmittance was measured. In Comparative Example 1, when the transmittance when applying the maximum voltage (that is, when displaying a white screen) is 100, the transmittance when applying the same voltage in Example 1 is 107.5. It was confirmed that the transmittance was improved.

<< Second Embodiment >>
Similar to the first embodiment, the second embodiment is configured to be applied to a normally black vertical alignment mode using linearly polarized light. In addition, about the structure same as 1st Embodiment, the same referential mark is attached | subjected and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  FIG. 7 illustrates a partial pixel configuration of the active area DSP. As the configuration of each pixel PX, only the pixel electrode EP is illustrated as in the example shown in FIG. The gate lines Y1 to Y4 and the auxiliary capacitance lines AY1 to AY5 each extend along the first direction D1. The source lines X1 to X7 each extend along the second direction D2.

  In such an active area DSP, the pixel PX11, the pixel PX12, the pixel PX13, the pixel PX14, the pixel PX15, and the pixel PX16 are arranged in this order along the first direction D1. In the second direction D2 of the pixel PX11, the pixel PX21, the pixel PX31, and the pixel PX41 are arranged in this order. That is, in the active area DSP shown here, the pixels PX arranged in a 6 × 4 matrix are illustrated.

  Further, here, a color display type liquid crystal display device is illustrated. For example, the pixel PX11 and the pixel PX14 correspond to the red pixel (R), and all the pixels arranged in the second direction D2 of these pixels. Corresponds to red pixels. The pixel PX12 and the pixel PX15 correspond to the green pixel (G), and all the pixels arranged in the second direction D2 of these pixels also correspond to the green pixel. The pixels PX13 and PX16 correspond to the blue pixel (B), and all the pixels arranged in the second direction D2 of these pixels also correspond to the blue pixel.

  A pixel electrode EP is disposed in each pixel PX. Each pixel electrode EP is formed in a substantially rectangular shape extending in the second direction. Here, one end side of the pixel electrode EP corresponds to the left side in the figure, and the other end side of the pixel electrode EP corresponds to the right side in the figure.

  The alignment control means ALC applied to the second embodiment is not formed on one end side of the pixel electrode (first pixel electrode) EP arranged in the pixel PX11. This alignment control means ALC is provided between the other end side of the pixel electrode EP arranged in the pixel PX11 and one end side of the pixel electrode (second pixel electrode) EP arranged in the pixel PX12 adjacent to the pixel PX11. It straddles and extends in the second direction D2. That is, the alignment control means ALC faces the source line X2 disposed between the pixel PX11 and the pixel PX12. Note that no orientation control means is formed on the other end side of the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX12.

  The orientation control means ALC is formed discontinuously along the second direction D2. That is, this alignment control means ALC is not formed on the other end side of the pixel electrode (third pixel electrode) EP arranged in the pixel PX21 arranged in the second direction D2 of the pixel PX11. This alignment control means ALC faces one end of the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX21 and extends in the second direction D2. That is, the orientation control means ALC faces the source line X1.

  Similarly, the alignment control means ALC is not formed on one end side of the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX31 but is opposed to the other end side of the pixel electrode EP, and the other end side of the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX41. Is opposed to one end side of the pixel electrode EP without being formed.

  As described above, the alignment control means ALC is arranged in the odd-numbered rows (first row, third row), that is, in the first direction D1 including the pixels PX31 and the row composed of the pixels arranged in the first direction D1 including the pixel PX11. The rows composed of the aligned pixels are arranged so as to face even-numbered source lines (X2, X4, X6). The alignment control means ALC is arranged in even-numbered rows (second row, fourth row), that is, rows composed of pixels arranged in the first direction D1 including the pixel PX21 and arranged in the first direction D1 including the pixel PX41. The rows of pixels are arranged so as to face the odd-numbered source lines (X1, X3, X5, X7). That is, the alignment control means ALC are staggered in two columns with respect to two adjacent source lines X.

  The width of the alignment control unit ALC along the first direction D1 is larger than the interval between two adjacent pixel electrodes EP. For this reason, a part of the alignment control means ALC faces the peripheral edge of two adjacent pixel electrodes EP (for example, the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX11 and the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX12).

  According to the second embodiment, in a state where an electric field is formed, the liquid crystal molecules of two pixels adjacent to each other with the alignment control unit ALC interposed therebetween are aligned toward the alignment control unit ALC. The alignment directions of the liquid crystal molecules are opposite to each other. For example, the liquid crystal molecules of the pixel PX11 are aligned so as to face the right side of the drawing toward the alignment control unit ALC as indicated by the arrow H1 in the drawing, and are adjacent to each other with the pixel PX11 and the alignment control unit ALC interposed therebetween. The liquid crystal molecules of the pixel PX12 are aligned so as to face the left side in the drawing toward the alignment control means ALC as indicated by an arrow H2 in the drawing.

  Similarly, the liquid crystal molecules of the pixel PX13 are aligned in the direction of the arrow H1, the liquid crystal molecules of the pixel PX14 are aligned in the direction of the arrow H2, the liquid crystal molecules of the pixel PX15 are aligned in the direction of the arrow H1, and the liquid crystal molecules of the pixel PX16. The molecules are oriented in the direction of arrow H2. Further, the liquid crystal molecules of the pixel PX21 are aligned in the direction of the arrow H2, the liquid crystal molecules of the pixel PX31 are aligned in the direction of the arrow H1, and the liquid crystal molecules of the pixel PX41 are aligned in the direction of the arrow H2.

  On the other hand, for the closest pixel of the same color arranged in the first direction D1, the liquid crystal molecules of the pixel PX11 which is a red pixel are aligned in the direction of the arrow H1, whereas the liquid crystal molecules of the pixel PX14 are aligned with the arrow H2. Oriented in the direction. Similarly, the liquid crystal molecules of the pixel PX12 which is a green pixel are aligned in the direction of the arrow H2, while the liquid crystal molecules of the pixel PX15 are aligned in the direction of the arrow H1. Further, the liquid crystal molecules of the pixel PX13 which is a blue pixel are aligned in the direction of the arrow H1, whereas the liquid crystal molecules of the pixel PX16 are aligned in the direction of the arrow H2.

  The same applies to the closest pixels of the same color arranged in the second direction D2. For example, the liquid crystal molecules of the pixel PX11 that is a red pixel are aligned in the direction of the arrow H1, whereas the liquid crystal molecules of the pixel PX21 are aligned in the direction of the arrow H2.

  As described above, the closest pixel of the same color arranged in the first direction D1 or the second direction D2 displays substantially the same gradation, so that the multi-domain structure is substantially distributed to the two pixels. It is possible to ensure a wide viewing angle characteristic.

  Furthermore, according to the second embodiment, as described above, a multi-domain can be configured for the closest pixels of the same color arranged in the first direction D1, or the closest colors of the same color arranged in the second direction D2. It is also possible to configure a multi-domain for a pixel. That is, according to the second embodiment, since the alignment division can be realized by two pixels in the first direction D1 or two pixels in the second direction D2, more pixels can be used for the alignment division. For this reason, the degree of freedom of the alignment division method is increased, and various alignment division configurations are possible.

  For example, consider a case where an image in an OFF state is displayed every other column in a column composed of pixels PX arranged in the second direction D2. In this case, the pixel PX11, the pixel PX13, and the pixel PX15 are turned on, while the pixel PX12, the pixel PX14, and the pixel PX16 are turned off. For this reason, a multi-domain cannot be configured for the closest pixels of the same color arranged in the first direction D1. For example, since the pixel PX11 which is a red pixel is ON, the closest pixel PX14 arranged in the first direction D1 of the pixel PX11 is OFF, so that the viewing angle compensation is not performed.

  According to the second embodiment, even in such a case, a multi-domain can be configured for the closest pixels of the same color arranged in the second direction D2. For example, when the pixel PX11 which is a red pixel is turned on, the closest pixel PX21 arranged in the second direction D2 of the pixel PX11 is turned on, so that viewing angle compensation can be realized by these two pixels.

  In addition, according to the second embodiment, the orientation direction of the liquid crystal molecules in the two pixels PX sandwiching the orientation control means ALC is an orientation of 0 degree to 180 degrees substantially parallel to the first direction D1, The respective absorption axes A1 and A2 of the applied first polarizing plate PL1 and second polarizing plate PL2 are set to an orientation of 45 degrees to 225 degrees and an orientation of 135 degrees to 315 degrees with respect to the first direction. . For this reason, generation | occurrence | production of the dark line resulting from utilizing a linearly polarized light can be suppressed.

  Furthermore, according to the second embodiment, a part of the auxiliary capacitance line AY overlaps with the vicinity of the short side of the pixel electrode EP arranged in each pixel PX. For this reason, even if a domain boundary occurs in the vicinity of the short side of the pixel electrode EP, it is shielded by the storage capacitor line AY, so that it is not visually recognized as a dark line and suppresses a substantial reduction in transmittance. Can do.

  In the example shown in FIG. 7, the alignment control means ALC is arranged so as to face the even-numbered source lines for the odd-numbered rows, and so as to face the odd-numbered source lines for the even-numbered rows. However, the alignment control means ALC is arranged to oppose the odd-numbered source lines for the odd-numbered rows, and to the even-numbered source lines for the even-numbered rows. You may arrange | position so that it may oppose.

  In the second embodiment, the orientation control means ALC may be arranged irregularly. However, even in this case, in order to realize the viewing angle compensation between the closest pixels arranged in the second direction D2, the alignment control means ALC is applied to the pixel electrodes EP of the column composed of the pixels PX arranged in the second direction D2. It is desirable that the number of pixel electrodes EP facing the one end side is the same as the number of pixel electrodes EP facing the other end side of the alignment control means ALC. That is, the pixels constituting one column are configured such that the number of pixels PX whose liquid crystal molecules are aligned in the direction of the arrow H1 is equal to the number of pixels PX whose liquid crystal molecules are aligned in the direction of the arrow H2. It is desirable.

  For example, in the example shown in FIG. 8, the alignment control means ALC is not formed on one end side of the pixel electrode (first pixel electrode) EP disposed in the pixel PX11 and the pixel PX41, but the pixel PX11 and the pixel PX41. Is opposed to the other end side of the pixel electrode EP arranged at the same time and extends in the second direction D2. Further, the alignment control means ALC is not formed on the other end side of the pixel electrode (third pixel electrode) EP arranged in the pixel PX21 and the pixel PX31 arranged in the second direction D2 of the pixel PX11. The pixel electrodes EP of the pixels PX21 and PX31 are opposed to one end side and extend in the second direction D2.

  That is, the alignment control means ALC uses even-numbered source lines for the rows composed of pixels arranged in the first direction D1 including the pixel PX11 and the rows composed of pixels arranged in the first direction D1 including the pixel PX41. It arrange | positions so as to oppose (X2, X4, X6). The alignment control means ALC also applies odd-numbered source lines for the rows composed of pixels arranged in the first direction D1 including the pixel PX21 and the rows composed of pixels arranged in the first direction D1 including the pixel PX31. It arrange | positions so that it may oppose (X1, X3, X5, X7).

  Even in such a configuration, the same effect as the example shown in FIG. 7 can be obtained.

(Example 2)
In Example 2, a slit SL having a width of 10 μm formed in the counter electrode ET is applied as the alignment control means ALC. In particular, the slit SL is formed in a pattern as shown in FIG. Otherwise, a liquid crystal display panel having the same configuration as in Example 1 was produced.

(Comparative Example 2)
In Comparative Example 2, a slit SL having a width of 10 μm formed in the counter electrode ET is applied as the alignment control means ALC. In particular, a liquid crystal display panel having the same configuration as that of Example 2 was manufactured except that the slit SL continuously extended in the second direction D2 so as to face even-numbered source lines.

  For these Example 2 and Comparative Example 2, various images were displayed to confirm the viewing angle compensation effect. In Comparative Example 2, the viewing angle was not sufficiently compensated depending on the image, and a sense of incongruity occurred particularly when observed from an oblique direction. On the other hand, in Example 2, the viewing angle was sufficiently compensated regardless of the displayed image, and the sense of incongruity could be improved even when observed from an oblique direction. As a modification of the second embodiment, it is confirmed that the viewing angle compensation is sufficiently performed even when the slit SL as the orientation control means ALC is formed in a pattern as shown in FIG. did it.

«Third embodiment»
The third embodiment has a configuration applied to a normally black vertical alignment mode using linearly polarized light or circularly polarized light. In addition, about the structure same as 1st Embodiment, the same referential mark is attached | subjected and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  FIG. 9 illustrates a partial pixel configuration of the active area DSP. As the configuration of each pixel PX, only the pixel electrode EP is illustrated as in the example shown in FIG. The gate lines Y1 to Y5 and the auxiliary capacitance lines AY1 to AY4 each extend along the first direction D1. The source lines X1 to X7 each extend along the second direction D2.

  In such an active area DSP, the pixel PX11, the pixel PX12, the pixel PX13, the pixel PX14, the pixel PX15, and the pixel PX16 are arranged in this order along the first direction D1. In the second direction D2 of the pixel PX11, the pixel PX21, the pixel PX31, and the pixel PX41 are arranged in this order. That is, in the active area DSP shown here, the pixels PX arranged in a 6 × 4 matrix are illustrated.

  Further, here, a color display type liquid crystal display device is illustrated. For example, the pixel PX11 and the pixel PX14 correspond to the red pixel (R), and all the pixels arranged in the second direction D2 of these pixels. Corresponds to red pixels. The pixel PX12 and the pixel PX15 correspond to the green pixel (G), and all the pixels arranged in the second direction D2 of these pixels also correspond to the green pixel. The pixels PX13 and PX16 correspond to the blue pixel (B), and all the pixels arranged in the second direction D2 of these pixels also correspond to the blue pixel.

  A pixel electrode EP is disposed in each pixel PX. Each pixel electrode EP is formed in a substantially rectangular shape, and has a pair of short sides SS substantially parallel to the first direction D1 and a pair of long sides LS substantially parallel to the second direction D2. The pixel electrode EP forms two domains with a boundary (broken line in the figure) BD passing through the midpoint LM of the long side LS interposed therebetween. That is, the upper portion UP of the pixel electrode EP is a region from the upper short side SS to the boundary BD in the drawing. A lower LW of the pixel electrode EP is a region from the lower short side SS to the boundary BD in the drawing. Here, one end side of the pixel electrode EP corresponds to the left side in the figure, and the other end side of the pixel electrode EP corresponds to the right side in the figure.

  The alignment control means ALC applied to the third embodiment is not formed on one end side in the upper part UP of the pixel electrode (first pixel electrode) EP of the pixel PX11. This alignment control means ALC is provided between the other end side of the upper part UP of the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX11 and one end side of the upper part UP of the pixel electrode (second pixel electrode) EP of the pixel PX12 adjacent to the pixel PX11. It straddles and extends in the second direction D2. That is, the orientation control means ALC faces the source line X2 disposed between the upper half of the pixel PX11 and the upper half of the pixel PX12. Note that no orientation control means is formed on the other end side of the upper portion UP of the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX12.

  The orientation control means ALC is formed discontinuously along the second direction D2. That is, the orientation control means ALC does not extend between the other end side in the lower LW of the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX11 and one end side in the lower LW of the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX12. That is, the orientation control means ALC does not face the source line X2 disposed between the lower half of the pixel PX11 and the lower half of the pixel PX12.

  On the other hand, the orientation control means ALC faces one end side of the lower LW of the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX11 and extends in the second direction D2. This orientation control means ALC further extends in the second direction D2 and faces one end side of the upper part UP of the pixel electrode EP arranged in the pixel PX21 arranged in the second direction D2 of the pixel PX11. That is, the orientation control means ALC faces the source line X1 in the lower half of the pixel PX11 and the upper half of the pixel PX21. Note that no orientation control means is formed on the other end side of the upper portion UP of the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX21.

  Further, the alignment control means ALC faces the other end side of the lower LW of the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX12 and extends in the second direction D2. This alignment control means ALC further extends in the second direction D2 and faces the other end side of the lower LW of the pixel electrode EP arranged in the pixel PX22 aligned in the second direction D2 of the pixel PX12. That is, the alignment control means ALC faces the source line X3 in the lower half of the pixel PX12 and the upper half of the pixel PX22. Note that no orientation control means is formed on one end side of the upper portion UP of the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX22.

  Similarly, the alignment control means ALC is not formed on one end side in the lower LW of the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX21, but the other end side in the lower LW of the pixel electrode EP and the lower side of the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX22. It faces across one end side of the LW and extends in the second direction D2. That is, the alignment control means ALC faces the source line X2 disposed between the lower half of the pixel PX21 and the lower half of the pixel PX22. Note that no orientation control means is formed on the other end side of the lower LW of the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX22.

  The width of the alignment control unit ALC along the first direction D1 is larger than the interval between two adjacent pixel electrodes EP. For this reason, a part of the alignment control means ALC faces the peripheral edge of two adjacent pixel electrodes EP (for example, the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX11 and the pixel electrode EP of the pixel PX12).

  According to the third embodiment, in the state where an electric field is formed, the liquid crystal molecules of two pixels adjacent to each other with the alignment control unit ALC interposed therebetween are aligned toward the alignment control unit ALC. The alignment directions of the liquid crystal molecules are opposite to each other. For example, the liquid crystal molecules in the upper half of the pixel PX11 are aligned so as to face the right side in the drawing toward the alignment control means ALC as indicated by the arrow H1 in the drawing, and the pixel PX11 and the alignment control means ALC are aligned. The liquid crystal molecules in the upper half of the pixel PX12 that are adjacent to each other are aligned so as to face the left side in the drawing toward the alignment control means ALC, as indicated by the arrow H2 in the drawing. Further, the liquid crystal molecules in the lower half of the pixel PX11 are aligned in the direction of the arrow H2, and the liquid crystal molecules in the lower half of the pixel PX21 are aligned in the direction of the arrow H1.

  On the other hand, the upper half liquid crystal molecules of the pixel PX21 are aligned in the direction of the arrow H2, and the upper half liquid crystal molecules of the pixel PX22 are aligned in the direction of the arrow H1. Further, the liquid crystal molecules in the lower half of the pixel PX21 are aligned in the direction of the arrow H1, and the liquid crystal molecules in the lower half of the pixel PX22 are aligned in the direction of the arrow H2.

  As described above, since the alignment control means ALC is arranged at the upper left and lower right or the upper right and lower left of each pixel PX, domains in which the alignment directions of liquid crystal molecules are opposite to each other are formed in one pixel. . For this reason, it becomes possible to ensure a wide viewing angle characteristic.

  Further, according to the third embodiment, a part of the auxiliary capacitance line AY overlaps the boundary BD of the domain of each pixel PX. For this reason, since the domain boundary BD is shielded by the auxiliary capacitance line AY, it is not visually recognized as a dark line, and a substantial reduction in transmittance can be suppressed. Although the case where the domain boundary BD and the auxiliary capacitance line AY overlap is illustrated here, the boundary BD and the gate line Y may overlap.

(Example 3)
In Example 3, a slit SL having a width of 10 μm formed in the counter electrode ET is applied as the alignment control means ALC. In particular, the slit SL is formed in a pattern as shown in FIG. Otherwise, a liquid crystal display panel having the same configuration as in Example 1 was produced.

  With respect to Example 3, various images were displayed and the viewing angle compensation effect was confirmed. As a result, the viewing angle was sufficiently compensated regardless of the displayed image, and the sense of incongruity could be improved even when observed from an oblique direction. It was.

<< Fourth Embodiment >>
FIG. 10 illustrates a partial pixel configuration of the active area DSP. In FIG. 10, only the configuration necessary for the description is shown.

  In such an active area DSP, the pixel PX1 and the pixel PX2 are arranged side by side in the first direction D1. A first pixel electrode EP1 is disposed on the pixel PX1. A second pixel electrode EP2 is disposed on the pixel PX2. A source line X extending in the second direction D2 is disposed between the first pixel electrode EP1 and the second pixel electrode EP2.

  The orientation control means ALC is composed of a first segment SG1, a second segment SG2, and a third segment SG3.

  The first segment SG1 faces the first pixel electrode EP1 arranged in the pixel PX1 and the second pixel electrode EP2 arranged in the pixel PX2, and extends in the first direction D1. That is, the first segment SG1 is substantially orthogonal to the source line X disposed between the pixel PX1 and the pixel PX2.

  The first segment SG1 is formed discontinuously along the first direction D1, and does not cross over the entire first pixel electrode EP1 and second pixel electrode EP2. That is, on the extension line along the first direction D1 of the first segment SG1, there is a region where each pixel electrode EP and the counter electrode ET (not shown) face each other without passing through the first segment SG1.

  The second segment SG2 faces the first pixel electrode EP1. The third segment SG3 faces the second pixel electrode EP2. In the illustrated example, each of the second segment SG2 and the third segment SG3 faces the substantially central portion of the first pixel electrode EP1 and the second pixel electrode EP2.

  The second segment SG2 and the third segment SG3 are separated from the first segment SG1, and are formed in a cross shape extending in the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. About the part extended along the 1st direction D1 of 2nd segment SG2 and 3rd segment SG3, it is spaced apart from 1st segment SG1, and is located on the same straight line as 1st segment SG1.

  According to the fourth embodiment, in each of the pixels PX1 and PX2 adjacent to each other with the source line X interposed therebetween, the liquid crystal molecules are aligned toward the intersection of the second segment SG2 or the third segment SG3 having a cross shape. To do. For this reason, a plurality of domains in which the alignment directions of liquid crystal molecules are opposite to each other are formed in one pixel. For this reason, it becomes possible to ensure a wide viewing angle characteristic.

  In the fourth embodiment, the liquid crystal drive voltages for driving the liquid crystal molecules may be the same polarity or different polarities in the adjacent pixels PX1 and PX2.

  For example, when a voltage having the same polarity is applied to each of the first pixel electrode EP1 and the second pixel electrode EP2 with reference to the counter electrode potential, the potential difference formed between these pixel electrodes is weak, The formation of an electric field that aligns the liquid crystal molecules in an undesired direction is avoided.

  However, when a different polarity voltage is applied to each of the first pixel electrode EP1 and the second pixel electrode EP2 with reference to the counter electrode potential (for example, in the case of dot inversion driving), the second segment SG2 and In the vicinity of the same line as the portion extending along the first direction D1 of the third segment SG3, the liquid crystal molecules are aligned in an undesired direction due to a strong potential difference formed between the pixel electrodes, which causes dark lines. obtain.

  So, in this 4th Embodiment, it is between the 2nd segment SG2 and the 3rd segment SG3, and is the same straight line as the part extended along the 1st direction of 2nd segment SG2 and 3rd segment SG3. 1st segment SG1 is arrange | positioned. For this reason, even if a voltage having a different polarity is applied to each of the first pixel electrode EP1 and the second pixel electrode EP2 and a large potential difference is formed between these pixel electrodes, the first segment SG1 is not desirable. Formation of a strong electric field is suppressed. Thereby, generation | occurrence | production of a dark line can be suppressed and favorable display quality can be implement | achieved. In the fourth embodiment, the first segment SG1 is disposed across the pixels PX1 and PX2 having different polarities.

  In the example shown in FIG. 10, the case where the first segment SG1, the second segment SG2, and the third segment SG3 are one each has been described. However, the second segment SG2 facing the first pixel electrode EP1 is described. May be arranged, or a plurality of third segments SG3 facing the second pixel electrode EP2 may be arranged. For example, when each pixel electrode EP has a rectangular shape extending in the second direction D2, the plurality of second segments SG2 are arranged side by side in the second direction D2, and the plurality of third segments SG3 are similarly arranged. They are arranged side by side in the second direction D2. In this case, the second segment SG2 and the third segment SG3 are the same number. When a plurality of each of the second segment SG2 and the third segment SG3 are arranged, it is desirable that the same number of first segments SG1 as the second segments SG2 or the third segments SG3 are arranged.

  Next, a modified example will be described.

  FIG. 11 illustrates a partial pixel configuration of the active area DSP. In FIG. 11, only the configuration necessary for the description is shown.

  In such an active area DSP, the pixels PX1 and PX2 are arranged in the first direction D1, and the pixels PX3 and PX4 are arranged in the first direction D1. The pixels PX1 and PX3 are arranged in the second direction D2, and the pixels PX2 and PX4 are arranged in the second direction D2. The first pixel electrode EP1 to the fourth pixel electrode EP4 are disposed in the pixels PX1 to PX4, respectively.

  In the pixel PX1 and the pixel PX2, the alignment control means ALC configured by the first segment SG1, the second segment SG2, and the third segment SG3 is disposed. The first segment SG1 to the third segment SG3 have the same structure as the example shown in FIG.

  The pixel PX3 and the pixel PX4 include a fourth segment SG4 substantially identical to the first segment SG1, a fifth segment SG5 substantially identical to the second segment SG2, and substantially identical to the third segment SG3. An alignment control means ALC constituted by the sixth segment SG6 is arranged. That is, the fourth segment SG4 faces the third pixel electrode EP3 disposed in the pixel PX3 and the fourth pixel electrode EP4 disposed in the pixel PX4, and extends in the first direction D1. The fifth segment SG5 faces the third pixel electrode EP3. The sixth segment SG6 faces the fourth pixel electrode EP4.

  The fifth segment SG5 and the sixth segment SG6 are separated from the fourth segment SG4 and are formed in a cross shape extending in the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. About the part extended along the 1st direction D1 of 5th segment SG5 and 6th segment SG6, it is spaced apart from 4th segment SG4, and is located on the same straight line as 4th segment SG4.

  Further, as the alignment control means ALC, a seventh segment SG7 that faces the first pixel electrode EP1 arranged in the pixel PX1 and the third pixel electrode EP3 arranged in the pixel PX3 and extends in the second direction D2 is provided. Has been placed. The portions extending along the second direction D2 of the second segment SG2 and the fifth segment SG5 are separated from the seventh segment SG7 and are located on the same straight line as the seventh segment SG7.

  Further, as the alignment control means ALC, an eighth segment SG8 that faces the second pixel electrode EP2 disposed in the pixel PX2 and the fourth pixel electrode EP4 disposed in the pixel PX4 and extends in the second direction D2 is provided. Has been placed. The portions extending along the second direction D2 of the third segment SG3 and the sixth segment SG6 are spaced apart from the eighth segment SG8 and located on the same straight line as the eighth segment SG8.

  In such a modified example as well, as in the example shown in FIG. 10, a plurality of domains in which the alignment directions of liquid crystal molecules are opposite to each other are formed in one pixel, so that a wide viewing angle characteristic can be secured. It becomes possible.

  Also in this modified example, the liquid crystal driving voltages for driving the liquid crystal molecules may be the same or different in the pixels PX1 and PX2 adjacent to each other or the pixels PX1 and PX3 adjacent to each other. It may be polar.

  For example, even in the case of dot inversion driving, the first segment SG1 straddling between the pixel PX1 and the pixel PX2, the fourth segment SG4 straddling between the pixel PX3 and the pixel PX4, and between the pixel PX1 and the pixel PX3. The formation of an undesired electric field is suppressed by the seventh segment SG7 straddling and the eighth segment SG8 straddling between the pixel PX2 and the pixel PX4. Thereby, generation | occurrence | production of a dark line can be suppressed and favorable display quality can be implement | achieved.

(Example 2)
In Example 2, a slit SL having a width of 10 μm formed in the counter electrode ET is applied as the alignment control means ALC. In particular, the slit SL is formed in a pattern having a first segment SG1, a second segment SG2, and a third segment SG3 as shown in FIG. Otherwise, a liquid crystal display panel having the same configuration as in Example 1 was produced.

(Comparative Example 2)
A liquid crystal display panel having the same configuration as that of Example 2 was produced except that the first segment was omitted as the alignment control means ALC.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment itself, In the stage of implementation, it can change and implement a component within the range which does not deviate from the summary. Further, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining a plurality of constituent elements disclosed in the embodiment. For example, some components may be deleted from all the components shown in the embodiment. Furthermore, you may combine suitably the component covering different embodiment.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, a transmissive liquid crystal display device has been described as an example. However, each pixel includes a reflective display unit that selectively reflects external light and displays an image in addition to the transmissive display unit. A similar configuration can be applied to a transmissive liquid crystal display device.

  Further, although the case where the first direction D1 is the extending direction of the gate line Y and the second direction D2 is the extending direction of the source line X has been described, the first direction D1 is the extending direction of the source line X. Thus, the second direction D2 may be the extending direction of the gate line Y.

LPN ... Liquid crystal display panel AR ... Array substrate CT ... Counter substrate LQ ... Liquid crystal layer BL ... Backlight unit PX ... Pixel Y ... Gate line X ... Source line AY ... Auxiliary capacitance line W ... Switching element EP ... Pixel electrode ET ... Counter electrode 40 ... liquid crystal molecule ALC ... orientation control means (SL ... slit, CP ... projection)
SG1 ... 1st segment SG2 ... 2nd segment SG3 ... 3rd segment SG4 ... 4th segment SG5 ... 5th segment SG6 ... 6th segment SG7 ... 7th segment SG8 ... 8th segment

Claims (3)

An array substrate having a first pixel electrode and a second pixel electrode arranged in a first direction;
A counter substrate comprising a counter electrode facing the first pixel electrode and the second pixel electrode;
The substrate is held between the array substrate and the counter substrate, and is substantially perpendicular to the main surface of the substrate when no electric field is formed between the first pixel electrode, the second pixel electrode, and the counter electrode. A liquid crystal layer containing liquid crystal molecules to be aligned;
A first segment facing and extending in the first direction across each intermediate portion of the first pixel electrode and the second pixel electrode, and extending in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction and the first A second segment orthogonal to the segment and facing between the first pixel electrode and the second pixel electrode;
A third segment extending on the same straight line as the second segment and spaced from the second segment and facing between each of the first pixel electrode and the second pixel electrode; and the second segment; A fourth segment extending on the same straight line and spaced apart from the second segment and facing between the lower portions of the first pixel electrode and the second pixel electrode; and
A liquid crystal display device comprising:   The first pixel electrode, the second pixel electrode, and the counter electrode are opposed to each other without passing through the first segment on an extension line along the first direction of the first segment. 2. A liquid crystal display device according to 1. 2. The liquid crystal according to claim 1 , wherein the alignment control means is one of a slit formed in the counter electrode or a protrusion disposed on a surface of the counter substrate facing the array substrate. Display device.

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