KR20210041859A - Light route control member and display having the same - Google Patents

Abstract

A light path control member capable of preventing the aggregation of electrophoretic particles according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a first substrate; a first electrode disposed on the first substrate; a second substrate disposed on the first substrate; a second electrode disposed under the second substrate; and a light conversion unit disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The light conversion unit includes a partition wall unit and a receiving unit, which are alternately arranged. In the receiving unit, the light transmittance is changed according to the application of a voltage. The receiving unit includes a dispersion and light absorbing particles dispersed in the dispersion. A plurality of first protruding patterns are formed on one surface of the first substrate. A plurality of second protrusion patterns are formed on one surface of the second substrate. The first protruding patterns and second protruding patterns are formed in a region overlapping the partition wall unit.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] A light path control member and a display device including the same

The embodiment relates to a light path control member and a display device including the same.

The shading film blocks the transmission of light from the light source, and is attached to the front of the display panel, which is a display device used for mobile phones, notebook computers, tablet PCs, vehicle navigation, and vehicle touch, and the incident angle of light when the display transmits the screen. It is used for the purpose of expressing clear image quality at the viewing angle required by the user by adjusting the viewing angle of light according to the method.

In addition, the shading film may be used for windows of vehicles or buildings to partially shield external light to prevent glare or to prevent the interior from being seen from the outside.

That is, the light shielding film may be a light path conversion member that blocks light in a specific direction and transmits light in a specific direction by controlling a movement path of light. Accordingly, by controlling the transmission angle of light by the light shielding film, the viewing angle of the user can be controlled.

Meanwhile, such a light shielding film may be combined with a display panel or the like that displays a display. Meanwhile, the display panel may include various functional films such as a light source and a diffusion sheet for diffusing light emitted from the light source, and a prism sheet for condensing light emitted from the light source.

Accordingly, there is a problem in that the thickness of the display device including the light shielding film is increased, and transmittance is lowered by a plurality of layers.

Accordingly, there is a need for an optical path control member having a new structure capable of solving the above problems.

The embodiment provides a light path control member capable of preventing aggregation of electrophoretic particles while implementing an improved light blocking effect according to electrophoretic particles, and a display device including the same.

The optical path control member according to the embodiment includes: a first substrate; A first electrode disposed on the first substrate; A second substrate disposed on the first substrate; A second electrode disposed under the second substrate; And a light conversion part disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein the light conversion part includes a partition wall part and a receiving part that are alternately disposed, and the receiving part changes a light transmittance according to the application of a voltage, The receiving portion includes a dispersion and light absorbing particles dispersed in the dispersion, a plurality of first protruding patterns are formed on one surface of the first substrate, a plurality of second protruding patterns are formed on one surface of the second substrate, And the first protruding pattern and the second protruding pattern are formed in a region overlapping the partition wall portion.

A display device according to an exemplary embodiment includes a display panel and a light path control member disposed on the display panel, and the light path control member includes: a first substrate; A first electrode disposed on the first substrate; A second substrate disposed on the first substrate; A second electrode disposed under the second substrate; And a light conversion part disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein the light conversion part includes a partition wall part and a receiving part that are alternately disposed, and the receiving part changes a light transmittance according to the application of a voltage, The receiving portion includes a dispersion and light absorbing particles dispersed in the dispersion, a plurality of first protruding patterns are formed on one surface of the first substrate, a plurality of second protruding patterns are formed on one surface of the second substrate, And the first protruding pattern and the second protruding pattern are formed in a region overlapping the partition wall portion.

The optical path control member according to the embodiment may include a plurality of protruding patterns protruding on any one surface of the first substrate and the second substrate on which the electrode is disposed.

In detail, a first protruding pattern may be disposed on the first substrate, and the second protruding pattern may be disposed on the second substrate. The first and second protruding patterns are disposed to extend in different directions, and may serve to condense light moving from the first substrate to the second substrate.

That is, the plurality of protruding patterns formed on the first and second substrates may perform the same function as the prism sheet of the backlight module.

Accordingly, when the light path control member is used in combination with a backlight module, a prism substrate for condensing light from the backlight module may be omitted. Accordingly, the thickness of the display device can be reduced, and light loss occurring while passing through the prism substrate can be generated.

In addition, the first and second protruding members increase the surface roughness of the first and second substrates, thereby increasing the contact area between the light conversion unit and the adhesive layer in close contact with the first and second substrates, thereby improving adhesion. .

Accordingly, the optical path control member and the display device including the same according to the exemplary embodiment may have a thin thickness, and may have improved front brightness and reliability.

1 is a view showing a perspective view of an optical path control member according to an embodiment.
2 is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of a first substrate of an optical path control member according to an exemplary embodiment.
3 is a diagram illustrating a perspective view of a second substrate of an optical path control member according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along area AA′ of FIG. 2, illustrating a cross-sectional view in which a first electrode is disposed on a first substrate.
5 is a cross-sectional view taken along area BB′ of FIG. 3, illustrating a cross-sectional view in which a second electrode is disposed on a second substrate according to the first embodiment.
6 is a cross-sectional view taken along area AA′ of FIG. 2, illustrating another cross-sectional view in which a first electrode is disposed on a first substrate.
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along area BB′ of FIG. 3, illustrating another cross-sectional view in which a second electrode is disposed on a second substrate.
8 and 9 are diagrams showing cross-sectional views of the optical path control member according to the first embodiment.
10 and 11 are views showing cross-sectional views of an optical path control member according to a second embodiment.
12 and 13 are views showing cross-sectional views of an optical path control member according to a third embodiment.
14 and 15 are views showing cross-sectional views of an optical path control member according to a fourth embodiment.
16 to 19 are views illustrating another cross-sectional view of an optical path control member according to an exemplary embodiment.
20 to 27 are views for explaining a method of manufacturing an optical path control member according to an exemplary embodiment.
28 is a diagram illustrating a cross-sectional view of a display device to which an optical path control member according to an exemplary embodiment is applied.
29 and 30 are diagrams for describing an embodiment of a display device to which an optical path control member according to the embodiment is applied.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the technical idea of the present invention is not limited to some of the embodiments to be described, but may be implemented in a variety of different forms, and within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention, one or more of the constituent elements may be selectively selected between the embodiments. It can be combined with and substituted for use.

In addition, terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the embodiments of the present invention are generally understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, unless explicitly defined and described. It can be interpreted as a meaning, and terms generally used, such as terms defined in a dictionary, may be interpreted in consideration of the meaning in the context of the related technology.

In addition, terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are for describing the embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. In this specification, the singular form may also include the plural form unless specifically stated in the phrase, and when described as “at least one (or more than one) of A and (and) B and C”, it may be combined with A, B, and C. It may contain one or more of all possible combinations.

In addition, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used in describing the constituent elements of the embodiment of the present invention. These terms are only for distinguishing the constituent element from other constituent elements, and are not limited to the nature, order, or order of the constituent element by the term.

And, when a component is described as being'connected','coupled' or'connected' to another component, the component is not only directly connected, coupled, or connected to the other component, but also the component and The case of being'connected','coupled', or'connected' due to another component between the other components may also be included.

In addition, when it is described as being formed or disposed on the “top (top) or bottom (bottom)” of each component, the top (top) or bottom (bottom) is one as well as when the two components are in direct contact with each other. It also includes the case where the above other component is formed or disposed between the two components.

In addition, when expressed as "upper (upper) or lower (lower)", the meaning of not only an upward direction but also a downward direction based on one component may be included.

Hereinafter, an optical path control member according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. The optical path control member described below is for a switchable optical path control member that drives in various modes according to the movement of electrophoretic particles by application of a voltage.

1 to 3, the optical path control member according to the embodiment includes a first substrate 110, a second substrate 120, a first electrode 210, a second electrode 220, and a light conversion unit. It may include (300).

The first substrate 110 may support the first electrode 210. The first substrate 110 may be rigid or flexible.

In addition, the first substrate 110 may be transparent. For example, the first substrate 110 may include a transparent substrate capable of transmitting light.

The first substrate 110 may include glass, plastic, or a flexible polymer film. For example, flexible polymer films include polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS), and polymethylmethacrylic. Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA), Polyethylene Naphthalate (PEN), Polyether Sulfone (PES), Cyclic Olefin Copolymer (COC), Triacetylcellulose (TAC) film, polyvinyl alcohol ( Polyvinyl alcohol, PVA) film, polyimide (PI) film, or polystyrene (PS) may be formed of any one of, and this is only an example and is not limited thereto.

In addition, the first substrate 110 may be a flexible substrate having a flexible characteristic.

In addition, the first substrate 110 may be a curved or bent substrate. That is, the optical path control member including the first substrate 110 may also be formed to have a flexible, curved or bent characteristic. For this reason, the optical path control member according to the embodiment may be changed into various designs.

The first substrate 110 may have a thickness of about 1 mm or less.

A plurality of patterns may be formed on the first substrate 110. In detail, a plurality of first protruding patterns P1 may be formed on any one surface of the first substrate 110.

The first protruding patterns P1 may include the same material as the first substrate 110. The first protruding pattern P1 may be integrally formed with the first substrate 110.

The first protruding patterns P1 may extend and be disposed on the first substrate 110 in one direction. Referring to FIG. 2, the first protruding patterns P1 may be disposed to extend in a short width direction of the first substrate 11 in an arrow direction.

The first substrate 110 may include a first region 1A in which the first protruding pattern P1 is disposed and a second region 2A in which the first protruding pattern P1 is not disposed. In detail, the first protruding pattern P1 may be disposed only in a region overlapping with the receiving portion of the light conversion unit 300 described below. That is, the first area 1A may overlap an area in which the accommodating part is disposed, and the second area may overlap an area disposed in the partition wall part of the light conversion part 300.

The second substrate 120 may be disposed on the first substrate 110.

The second substrate 120 may include a material capable of transmitting light. The second substrate 120 may include a transparent material. The second substrate 120 may include the same material as or similar to the first substrate 110 described above.

For example, the second substrate 120 may include glass, plastic, or a flexible polymer film. For example, flexible polymer films include polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS), and polymethylmethacrylic. Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA), Polyethylene Naphthalate (PEN), Polyether Sulfone (PES), Cyclic Olefin Copolymer (COC), Triacetylcellulose (TAC) film, polyvinyl alcohol ( Polyvinyl alcohol, PVA) film, polyimide (PI) film, or polystyrene (PS) may be formed of any one of, and this is only an example and is not limited thereto.

In addition, the second substrate 120 may be a flexible substrate having flexible characteristics.

In addition, the second substrate 120 may be a curved or bent substrate. That is, the optical path control member including the second substrate 120 may also be formed to have a flexible, curved or bent characteristic. For this reason, the optical path control member according to the embodiment may be changed into various designs.

The second substrate 120 may have a thickness of about 1 mm or less.

A plurality of patterns may be formed on the second substrate 120. In detail, a plurality of second protruding patterns P2 may be formed on any one surface of the second substrate 120.

The second protruding patterns P2 may include the same material as the second substrate 120. The second protruding pattern P2 may be integrally formed with the second substrate 120.

The second protruding patterns P2 may extend and be disposed on the second substrate 120 in one direction. Referring to FIG. 3, the second protruding patterns P2 may be disposed to extend in a long width direction of the second substrate 120 in a direction of an arrow. That is, the first protruding pattern P1 and the second protruding pattern P2 may be disposed to extend in different directions.

The second substrate 120 may include a third area 3A in which the second protruding pattern P2 is disposed and a fourth area 4A in which the second protruding pattern P2 is not disposed. In detail, the second protruding pattern P2 may be disposed only in a region overlapping with the receiving portion of the light conversion unit 300 to be described below. That is, the third area 3A may overlap an area in which the accommodating part is disposed, and the fourth area may overlap an area in which the partition wall part of the light conversion part 300 is disposed.

That is, the first region 1A of the first substrate 110 and the third region 3A of the second substrate 120 overlap each other, and the second region of the first substrate 110 (2A) and the fourth region 4A of the second substrate 120 may overlap each other.

4 to 7 are diagrams illustrating cross-sectional views of the first and second electrodes disposed on the first and second substrates. In detail, FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along area AA′ of FIG. 2, illustrating a cross-sectional view in which a first electrode is disposed on a first substrate, and FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along area BB′ of FIG. 3, A diagram showing a cross-sectional view in which a second electrode is disposed on a second substrate according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the AA′ area of FIG. 2, in which the first electrode is disposed on the first substrate. It is a view showing another cross-sectional view, and FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along area BB′ of FIG. 3, illustrating another cross-sectional view in which a second electrode is disposed on a second substrate.

4 and 5, a first electrode 210 and a second electrode 220 may be disposed on the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 120, respectively.

Referring to FIG. 4, a first electrode 210 may be disposed on one surface of the first substrate 110.

The first electrode 210 may be disposed on the same surface as the first protruding pattern P1. That is, the first electrode 210 and the first protruding pattern P1 may be disposed on the same surface of the first substrate 110.

In detail, the first protruding pattern P1 is disposed on the first area of the first substrate 110, and the first electrode 210 is disposed on the second area of the first substrate 110. I can. That is, the first electrode 210 may be disposed on a region of the light conversion unit 300 that overlaps the receiving portion. That is, the first electrode 210 may be disposed as a plurality of pattern electrodes on one surface of the first substrate.

The first electrode 210 may include a transparent conductive material. For example, the first electrode 210 may include indium tin oxide, indium zinc oxide, copper oxide, tin oxide, and zinc oxide. , It may include a metal oxide such as titanium oxide (titanium oxide).

Further, the light transmittance of the first electrode 210 may be about 80% or more, and the first electrode 210 may have a thickness of about 10 nm to about 50 nm.

Alternatively, the first electrode 210 may include various metals to implement low resistance. For example, the first electrode 210 is chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), silver (Ag), molybdenum (Mo). It may include at least one metal of gold (Au), titanium (Ti), and alloys thereof.

Referring to FIG. 5, a second electrode 220 may be disposed on one surface of the second substrate 120.

The second electrode 220 may be disposed on the same surface as the second protruding pattern P2. That is, the second electrode 220 and the second protruding pattern P2 may be disposed on the same surface of the second substrate 120.

In detail, the second protruding pattern P2 is disposed on the third area of the second substrate 120, and the second electrode 220 is disposed on the fourth area of the second substrate 120. I can. That is, the second electrode 220 may be disposed on a region of the light conversion unit 300 that overlaps the receiving portion. That is, the second electrode 220 may be disposed as a plurality of pattern electrodes on one surface of the second substrate.

The second electrode 220 may include a transparent conductive material. For example, the second electrode 220 may include indium tin oxide, indium zinc oxide, copper oxide, tin oxide, and zinc oxide. , It may include a metal oxide such as titanium oxide (titanium oxide).

Further, the light transmittance of the second electrode 220 may be about 80% or more, and the second electrode 220 may have a thickness of about 10 nm to about 50 nm.

Alternatively, the second electrode 220 may include various metals to implement low resistance. For example, the second electrode 220 is chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), silver (Ag), molybdenum (Mo). It may include at least one metal of gold (Au), titanium (Ti), and alloys thereof.

Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, a first electrode 210 and a second electrode 220 may be disposed on the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 120, respectively. In this case, the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220 may be disposed on a surface different from the protrusion pattern.

Referring to FIG. 6, a first electrode 210 may be disposed on one surface of the first substrate 110.

The first electrode 210 may be disposed on a surface different from that of the first protruding pattern P1. That is, the first electrode 210 and the first protruding pattern P1 may be disposed on opposite surfaces of the first substrate 110, respectively.

In detail, the first protruding pattern P1 is disposed on one surface of the first substrate 110, and the first electrode 210 is disposed on the other surface opposite to the first substrate 110. I can.

In addition, the first electrode 210 may be disposed as a surface electrode on the other surface of the first substrate 110. That is, the first electrode 210 may be disposed on both the first and second regions of the first substrate 110 on the other surface of the first substrate 110.

Accordingly, a process of separately patterning the first electrode 210 may be omitted.

Also, referring to FIG. 7, a second electrode 220 may be disposed on one surface of the second substrate 120.

The second electrode 220 may be disposed on a surface different from that of the second protruding pattern P2. That is, the second electrode 220 and the second protruding pattern P2 may be disposed on opposite surfaces of the second substrate 120, respectively.

In detail, the second protruding pattern P2 is disposed on one surface of the second substrate 120, and the second electrode 220 is disposed on the other surface opposite to one surface of the second substrate 120. I can.

In addition, the second electrode 220 may be disposed as a surface electrode on the other surface of the second substrate 120. That is, the second electrode 220 may be disposed on both the third and fourth regions of the second substrate 120 on the other surface of the second substrate 120.

Accordingly, a process of separately patterning the second electrode 220 may be omitted.

1, 8, and 9, the light conversion unit 300 may be disposed between the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 120. In detail, the light conversion unit 300 may be disposed between the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220.

The partition wall portion 310 may be defined as a partition wall region that partitions the receiving portion. In addition, the partition wall portion 310 may be defined as a region through which light is transmitted. In addition, the receiving part 320 may be defined as a region that changes into a light blocking part and a light transmitting part according to the application of a voltage.

The partition wall portion 310 and the receiving portion 320 may be alternately disposed with each other. The partition wall portion 310 and the receiving portion 320 may be disposed to have different widths. For example, the width of the partition wall portion 310 may be greater than the width of the receiving portion 320. That is, the area of the partition wall portion 310 may be larger than the area of the receiving portion 320.

The partition 310 may include a transparent material. The partition 310 may include a material capable of transmitting light.

The partition wall portion 310 may include a resin material. For example, the partition 310 may include a photo-curable resin material. For example, the partition 310 may include a UV resin or a transparent photoresist resin. Alternatively, the partition wall portion 310 may include a urethane resin or an acrylic resin.

For example, in FIGS. 8 and 9, light may be emitted from the lower portion of the first substrate 110 and the light may be incident in the direction of the second substrate 120. Transmitted and transmitted light may be moved to the upper portion of the second substrate 120.

8 and 9, the receiving part 320 may include a dispersion liquid 320a and a light absorbing particle 10. Specifically, the dispersion liquid 320a is injected into the receiving part 320 After being filled, a plurality of light absorbing particles 10 may be dispersed in the dispersion liquid 320a.

The dispersion liquid 320a may be a material that disperses the light absorbing particles 10. The dispersion liquid 320a may include a transparent material. The dispersion liquid 320a may contain a non-polar solvent. In addition, the dispersion liquid 320a may include a material capable of transmitting light. For example, the dispersion 320a may include at least one of halocarbon oil, paraffin oil, and isopropyl alcohol.

The light absorbing particles 10 may be dispersed and disposed in the dispersion liquid 320a. In detail, the plurality of light absorbing particles 10 may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other in the dispersion liquid 320a.

The light absorbing particles 10 may include a material capable of absorbing light. The light absorbing particles may have a color. In detail, the light absorbing particles 10 may include black particles capable of absorbing light. For example, the light absorbing particles may include carbon black particles.

Although not shown in the drawings, a sealing layer may be disposed on the receiving part 320. Specifically, a sealing layer may be disposed on the receiving part 320 to seal the dispersion from the outside.

In addition, metal oxide particles may be dispersed together with the light absorbing particles 10 in the receiving part 320. The metal oxide particles may induce scattering of light passing through the receiving part 320. Accordingly, even if a protruding pattern is not disposed in an area overlapping with the receiving unit 320, light scattering is induced inside the receiving unit, thereby improving the luminance uniformity of the light path control member.

The light transmittance of the receiving part 320 may be changed by the light absorbing particles 10. In detail, the light transmittance of the receiving part 320 is changed by the light absorbing particles 10 to be changed into a light blocking part and a light transmitting part. That is, the accommodating part 320 may change the light transmittance passing through the accommodating part 320 by dispersion and aggregation of the light absorbing particles 10 disposed therein in the dispersion 320a.

For example, the optical path member according to the embodiment is changed from a first mode to a second mode or from a second mode to a first mode by a voltage applied to the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220 Can be.

In detail, in the light path control member according to the embodiment, in the first mode, the receiving unit 320 may be a light blocking unit, and light of a specific angle may be blocked by the receiving unit 320. That is, the viewing angle of the user as viewed from the outside may be narrowed.

In addition, in the light path control member according to the embodiment, in the second mode, the receiving unit 320 becomes a light transmitting unit, and the light path control member according to the embodiment is in the partition 310 and the receiving unit 320. All of them can be transmitted through light. That is, the viewing angle of the user as viewed from the outside may be widened.

The conversion from the first mode to the second mode, that is, the conversion of the receiving part 320 from the light blocking part to the light transmitting part, will be implemented by the movement of the light absorbing particles 10 of the receiving part 320. I can. That is, the light absorbing particles 10 have electric charges on the surface, and may move toward the first electrode or the second electrode according to the application of voltage according to the characteristics of the electric charge. That is, the light absorbing particles 10 may be electrophoretic particles.

In detail, the receiving part 320 may be electrically connected to the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220.

At this time, when a voltage is not applied to the optical path control member from the outside, the light absorbing particles 10 of the receiving part 320 are uniformly dispersed in the dispersion liquid 320a, and accordingly, the receiving part 320 Light may be blocked by the light absorbing particles 10. Accordingly, in the first mode, the accommodating part 320 may be driven as a light blocking part.

Alternatively, when a voltage is applied to the light path control member from the outside, the light absorbing particles 10 may be moved. For example, the light absorbing particles 10 may be moved in the direction of one end or the other end of the receiving part 320 by the voltage transmitted through the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220. I can. That is, the light absorbing particles 10 may move toward the first electrode or the second electrode.

In detail, when a voltage is applied to the first electrode 210 and/or the second electrode 220, an electric field is formed between the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220, The light absorbing particles 10 in a charged state may be moved in the direction of the (+) electrode of the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220 using the dispersion 320a as a medium.

That is, when no voltage is applied to the first electrode 210 and/or the second electrode 220, as shown in FIG. 8, the light absorbing particles 10 are uniformly dispersed in the dispersion liquid 320a. Thus, the receiving part 320 may be driven as a light blocking part.

Alternatively, when a voltage is applied to the first electrode 210 and/or the second electrode 220, as shown in FIG. 9, the light absorbing particles 10 are the first electrode in the dispersion solution 320a. It may be moved in the direction of 210, that is, the light absorbing particles 10 may be moved in one direction, and the receiving part 320 may be driven as a light transmitting part.

Accordingly, the optical path control member according to the embodiment may be driven in two modes depending on the user's surrounding environment. That is, when the user desires light transmission only at a specific viewing angle, the receiving unit may be driven as a light blocking unit, or in an environment where the user requires a wide viewing angle and high luminance, the receiving unit may be driven as a light transmitting unit by applying a voltage have.

Accordingly, since the optical path control member according to the embodiment can be implemented in two modes according to the user's request, the optical path member can be applied regardless of the user's environment.

Each of the first and second substrates 110 and 120 may include the first protruding patterns P1 and the second protruding patterns P2 described above.

The first protruding pattern P1 and the second protruding pattern P2 may be disposed to face each other. That is, the first protrusion pattern P1 is disposed between the light conversion unit 300 and the first substrate 110, and the second protrusion pattern P2 is formed between the light conversion unit 300 and the first substrate 110. 2 It may be disposed between the substrates 120.

A first electrode 210 and the first protruding pattern P1 may be disposed on the first substrate 110. The first electrode 210 may be disposed between the first protruding pattern P1, and the first protruding pattern P1 may be disposed between the first electrode 210.

The first protruding pattern P1 may be disposed in an area overlapping the partition 310. In addition, the first electrode 210 may be disposed in a region overlapping with the accommodating part 320.

The first electrode 210 may be disposed on an area overlapping the receiving portion to apply a voltage to the receiving portion.

The first protruding pattern P1 may collect light moving in the direction of the partition 310. In detail, it may be emitted from the lower direction of the first substrate 110 and incident to the light conversion unit 300. The first protruding pattern P1 may serve to increase straightness of light by condensing light moving to the light conversion unit. That is, the first protruding pattern may play the same role as the first prism substrate of the backlight module.

A second electrode 220 and the second protruding pattern P2 may be disposed on the second substrate 120. The second electrode 220 may be disposed between the second protruding pattern P1, and the second protruding pattern P2 may be disposed between the second electrode 220.

The second protruding pattern P2 may be disposed in an area overlapping the partition part 320. In addition, the second electrode 220 may be disposed in an area overlapping the receiving part 320.

The second electrode 220 may be disposed on an area overlapping the receiving portion to apply a voltage to the receiving portion.

The second protruding pattern P2 may collect light moving in the direction of the partition 310. In detail, it may be emitted from the lower direction of the second substrate 120 and incident to the light conversion unit 300. The second protruding pattern P2 may serve to increase straightness of light by condensing light moving to the light conversion unit. That is, the second protruding pattern may play the same role as the second prism substrate of the backlight module.

That is, the first and second protruding patterns may serve as a prism substrate of the backlight module. Accordingly, when the light path control member is combined with another member and applied to a display device, the prism substrate of the backlight module that supplies the light source may be omitted.

Accordingly, when the light path control member is applied to the display device, some of the components included in the display device may be omitted, so that the thickness of the display device may be reduced, and the light transmittance may be increased as the thickness decreases.

In addition, adhesion between the light conversion unit on the first substrate 110 and the adhesive layer on the light conversion unit may be improved by the first and second protrusion patterns. That is, the surface roughness of the first and second substrates may be increased by the first and second protruding patterns, and accordingly, the contact area in contact with the light conversion unit and the adhesive layer is increased, so that the first and second substrates And it is possible to improve the adhesion of the light conversion unit and the adhesive layer.

Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 10 to 15, the first and second protruding patterns may be disposed at various positions.

10 and 11, the first protrusion pattern P1 is disposed on one surface of the first substrate 110, and the second protrusion pattern P2 is formed on one surface of the second substrate 120. Can be placed on

The first protruding pattern P1 may be disposed on a surface different from the first electrode 210. In detail, the first electrode 210 may be disposed on an upper surface of the first substrate 110, and the first protruding pattern P1 may be disposed on a lower surface of the first substrate 110.

In addition, the second protruding pattern P2 may be disposed on a surface different from the second electrode 220. In detail, the second electrode 220 may be disposed on a lower surface of the second substrate 120, and the second protruding pattern P2 may be disposed on an upper surface of the second substrate 120.

The first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220 may be disposed as surface electrodes on one surface of the first substrate and the second substrate, respectively. That is, the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220 may be disposed in a region overlapping with the partition wall portion 310 and the receiving portion 320 of the light conversion unit. As the electrode and the protruding pattern are disposed on different surfaces of the substrate, a process of separately patterning the first and second electrodes may be omitted.

12 and 13, the first protrusion pattern P1 is disposed on one surface of the first substrate 110, and the second protrusion pattern P2 is formed on one surface of the second substrate 120. Can be placed on

The first protruding pattern P1 may be disposed on a surface different from the first electrode 210. In detail, the first electrode 210 may be disposed on an upper surface of the first substrate 110, and the first protruding pattern P1 may be disposed on a lower surface of the first substrate 110.

In addition, the second protruding pattern P2 may be disposed on the same surface as the second electrode 220. In detail, the second electrode 220 and the second protruding pattern P2 may be disposed on the lower surface of the second substrate 120.

That is, the first electrode 210 may be disposed to face the second electrode 220 and the second protruding pattern P2.

The first electrode 210 may be disposed as a surface electrode on one surface of the first substrate. In addition, the second electrode 220 may be disposed as a plurality of pattern electrodes on one surface of the second substrate. That is, the first electrode 210 is disposed on a region overlapping the partition wall portion 310 and the receiving unit 320 of the light conversion unit, and the second electrode 220 is the receiving unit 320 of the light conversion unit. ) Can only be placed in the overlapping area.

In addition, referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, the first protrusion pattern P1 is disposed on one surface of the first substrate 110, and the second protrusion pattern P2 is formed on the second substrate 120. It may be disposed on one side.

The first protruding pattern P1 may be disposed on the same surface as the first electrode 210. In detail, the first electrode 210 and the first protruding pattern P1 may be disposed on an upper surface of the first substrate 110.

In addition, the second protruding pattern P2 may be disposed on a surface different from the second electrode 220. In detail, the second electrode 220 may be disposed on a lower surface of the second substrate 120, and the second protruding pattern P2 may be disposed on an upper surface of the second substrate 120.

That is, the second electrode 220 may be disposed to face the first electrode 210 and the first protruding pattern P1.

The second electrode 220 may be disposed as a surface electrode on one surface of the second substrate. In addition, the first electrode 210 may be disposed as a plurality of pattern electrodes on one surface of the first substrate. That is, the second electrode 220 is disposed on a region overlapping the partition wall portion 310 and the receiving unit 320 of the light conversion unit, and the first electrode 210 is the receiving unit 320 of the light conversion unit. ) Can only be placed in the overlapping area.

The optical path control member according to the embodiment may include a plurality of protruding patterns protruding on any one surface of the first substrate and the second substrate on which the electrode is disposed.

In detail, a first protruding pattern may be disposed on the first substrate, and the second protruding pattern may be disposed on the second substrate. The first and second protruding patterns are disposed to extend in different directions, and may serve to condense light moving from the first substrate to the second substrate.

That is, the plurality of protruding patterns formed on the first and second substrates may perform the same function as the prism sheet of the backlight module.

Accordingly, when the light path control member is used in combination with a backlight module, a prism substrate for condensing light from the backlight module may be omitted. Accordingly, the thickness of the display device can be reduced, and light loss occurring while passing through the prism substrate can be generated.

In addition, the first and second protruding members increase the surface roughness of the first and second substrates, thereby increasing the contact area between the light conversion unit and the adhesive layer in close contact with the first and second substrates, thereby improving adhesion. .

Accordingly, the optical path control member and the display device including the same according to the exemplary embodiment may have a thin thickness, and may have improved front brightness and reliability.

Meanwhile, the receiving part 320 may be disposed to be spaced apart from the first electrode 210 or the second electrode 220. That is, the receiving part 320 may be disposed in contact with only one of the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220.

For example, referring to FIGS. 8 to 15, the accommodating part 320 may contact the first electrode 210 and may be spaced apart from the second electrode 220.

The same or similar material as the partition 310 may be disposed in a region where the receiving part 320 and the second electrode 220 are spaced apart from each other.

In detail, the receiving part 320 may be disposed to be spaced apart from the electrode in the direction of the viewing surface. That is, the electrode in the direction of the viewing surface may not contact the receiving part 320.

Accordingly, by increasing the transmittance of light emitted in the direction of the viewing surface, the luminance of the light path control member may be improved, thereby improving visibility.

Meanwhile, the receiving part 320 may be formed in various shapes.

8 to 15, the receiving part 320 extends from one end of the receiving part 310 to the other end, and the width of the receiving part 320 may be changed.

For example, referring to FIGS. 8 to 15, the receiving part 320 may be formed in a trapezoidal shape. In detail, the accommodating part 320 may extend from the first electrode 210 to the second electrode 220 and may be formed to have a wider width of the accommodating part 320.

That is, the width of the accommodating part 320 may be narrowed while extending from the viewing surface of the user in the opposite direction. In addition, when a voltage is applied to the light conversion unit, the light absorbing particles of the receiving unit 320 may move in a direction in which the width of the receiving unit is narrowed.

That is, the width of the accommodating part 320 may be widened while extending from the light incidence part to which light is incident in the direction of the light output part from which light is emitted.

Accordingly, since the light absorbing particles move in a direction opposite to the viewing surface, not the viewing surface, it is possible to prevent blocking of light emitted in the viewing surface direction, thereby improving the luminance of the light path member.

In addition, since the light absorbing particles move from a wide area to a narrow area, the light absorbing particles can be easily moved.

In addition, since the light absorbing particles move to a narrow area of the accommodating portion, the amount of light transmitted in the direction of the user's viewing surface may be increased, thereby improving front luminance.

Alternatively, on the contrary, the accommodating part 320 may extend from the first electrode 210 to the second electrode 220 and may be formed to have a narrow width of the accommodating part 320.

That is, the width of the accommodating part 320 may increase while extending from the user's viewing surface in the opposite direction. In addition, when a voltage is applied to the light conversion unit, the light absorbing particles of the receiving unit 320 may move in a direction in which the width of the receiving unit is widened.

That is, the width of the accommodating part 320 may be narrowed while extending from the light incidence part to which light is incident to the light-exiting part direction from which light is emitted.

Accordingly, a contact area between one surface of the receiving portion and the first electrode through which the light absorbing particles move is increased, so that the moving speed of the light absorbing particles, that is, the driving speed, may be increased.

In addition, referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, both ends of the accommodating portion may be disposed in contact with the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220, respectively.

Accordingly, since the receiving unit 320 directly contacts the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220, a voltage is easily transmitted to the receiving unit 320 without an effect of resistance, thereby improving driving characteristics. I can make it.

In addition, the accommodating part 320 may be disposed while having a constant inclination angle θ. In detail, referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, the receiving part 320 may be disposed with an inclination angle θ of greater than 0° to less than 90° with respect to the first electrode 210. In detail, the receiving part 320 may extend upward while having an inclination angle θ of greater than 0° to less than 90° with respect to one surface of the first electrode 210.

Accordingly, when the light path member is used together with the display panel, moire due to the overlapping phenomenon of the pattern of the display panel and the receiving portion 320 of the light path member can be prevented, thereby improving user visibility.

Hereinafter, a method of manufacturing an optical path control member according to an embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 20 to 27.

First, referring to FIG. 20, an electrode material forming the first substrate 110 and the first electrode is prepared. A plurality of first protruding patterns P1 may be formed on one surface of the first substrate 110.

Subsequently, the electrode material may be formed on one surface of the first substrate 110 by a coating or deposition process. In detail, the electrode material may be partially formed on the surface of the first substrate 110. In detail, the electrode material may be formed on a substrate region in which the first protruding pattern P1 is not formed.

Accordingly, a first electrode 210 formed of a plurality of pattern electrodes spaced apart from each other may be formed on the first substrate 110.

Subsequently, referring to FIG. 21, a resin layer R may be formed by applying a resin material on the first electrode 210. In detail, a resin layer may be formed by applying a urethane resin or an acrylic resin on the first electrode 210.

Subsequently, a pattern part may be formed on the resin layer by using a mold. In detail, by imprinting the mold, holes or grooves may be formed in the resin layer, and a partition wall portion may be formed by the remaining resin layer. That is, the partition wall portion 310 and the accommodation portion 320 described above may be formed on the resin layer.

In detail, the partition wall portion may be formed on a region overlapping the first protruding pattern P1. In addition, the hole or groove may be formed on a region overlapping the first electrode 210.

Subsequently, referring to FIG. 22, an electrode material forming the second substrate 120 and the second electrode is prepared. A plurality of second protruding patterns P2 may be formed on one surface of the second substrate 120.

Subsequently, the electrode material may be formed on one surface of the second substrate 120 by a coating or deposition process. In detail, the electrode material may be partially formed on the surface of the second substrate 120. In detail, the electrode material may be formed on a substrate region where the second protruding pattern P2 is not formed.

Accordingly, a second electrode 220 formed of a plurality of pattern electrodes spaced apart from each other may be formed on the second substrate 120.

Subsequently, referring to FIG. 24, an adhesive layer 400 may be formed by applying an adhesive material on the second electrode 220. The adhesive layer 400 may be formed on a partial region of the second electrode 220.

Subsequently, referring to FIG. 25, the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 120 prepared above may be bonded. In detail, the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 120 may be adhered through the adhesive layer 400 on the second substrate 120.

In this case, the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 120 may be adhered in different directions. In detail, the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 120 may be bonded to each other so that the long side direction of the first substrate 110 and the short side direction of the second substrate 120 overlap each other.

Subsequently, referring to FIG. 26, a blocking film 600 may be formed on the first substrate 110. In detail, the blocking layer 600 may be disposed on the receiving portion 320 disposed on the first substrate 110. That is, the blocking layer 600 may be disposed so that the receiving portion 320 is disposed between the blocking layers 600.

Subsequently, referring to FIG. 26, a variable light transmission material may be injected between the receiving part 320, that is, the partition walls 310. That is, a light-transmitting material can be injected from the injection unit toward the exit unit.

In detail, a light transmission variable material in which light absorbing particles such as carbon black are dispersed may be injected into an electrolyte solvent including a paraffinic solvent or the like between the receiving portions 320, that is, between the partition walls. Accordingly, the receiving portion 320 described above may be formed between the partition wall portions 310.

Subsequently, referring to FIG. 27, by forming a sealing layer 600 on the outer surface of the receiving portion, the variable light transmission material inside the receiving portion may be sealed from the outside. Subsequently, by cutting the first substrate 110, a final optical path control member may be formed.

Below. A display device and a display device to which an optical path control member according to an embodiment is applied will be described with reference to FIGS. 28 to 30.

Referring to FIG. 28, the light path control member 1000 according to the embodiment may be disposed on the display panel 2000.

The display panel 2000 and the light path control member 1000 may be adhered to each other and disposed. For example, the display panel 2000 and the light path control member 1000 may be adhered to each other through an adhesive member 1500. The adhesive member 1500 may be transparent. For example, the adhesive member 1500 may include an adhesive or an adhesive layer including an optically transparent adhesive material.

The adhesive member 1500 may include a release film. In detail, when bonding the light path member and the display panel, after removing the release film, the light path control member and the display panel may be adhered.

The display panel 2000 may include a first substrate 2100 and a second substrate 2200. When the display panel 2000 is a liquid crystal display panel, the display panel 2000 includes a first substrate 2100 including a thin film transistor (TFT) and a pixel electrode, and a second substrate including color filter layers. 2200 may be formed in a structure bonded with a liquid crystal layer therebetween.

In addition, in the display panel 2000, a thin film transistor, a color filter, and a black electrolyte 320a are formed on the first substrate 2100, and the second substrate 2200 is the first substrate 2100 with a liquid crystal layer interposed therebetween. ) May be a liquid crystal display panel having a color filter on transistor (COT) structure that is bonded to each other. That is, a thin film transistor may be formed on the first substrate 2100, a protective layer may be formed on the thin film transistor, and a color filter layer may be formed on the protective layer. Further, a pixel electrode in contact with the thin film transistor is formed on the first substrate 2100. In this case, in order to improve the aperture ratio and simplify the mask process, the black electrolyte 320a may be omitted, and the common electrode may be formed to also serve as the black electrolyte 320a.

In addition, when the display panel 2000 is a liquid crystal display panel, the display device may further include a backlight unit that provides light from a rear surface of the display panel 2000. In this case, the backlight unit may not include a prism sheet. In detail, in the backlight unit, only a diffusion sheet is disposed on the light guide plate, and separate 1 and 2 prism sheets that condense light may be omitted.

That is, the backlight unit may include a light source emitting light, a light guide plate into which light emitted from the light source is incident, a reflective sheet disposed under the light guide plate, and a diffusion sheet disposed above the light guide plate.

The light emitted from the light source may be incident on the light guide plate, diffused by the diffusion sheet on the light guide plate, and directly incident on the first substrate of the light path control member.

That is, the first substrate of the light path control member may be disposed facing the diffusion sheet of the backlight module.

Alternatively, when the display panel 2000 is an organic light emitting display panel, the display panel 2000 may include a self-luminous device that does not require a separate light source. In the display panel 2000, a thin film transistor may be formed on a first substrate 2100, and an organic light emitting device in contact with the thin film transistor may be formed. The organic light-emitting device may include an anode, a cathode, and an organic light-emitting layer formed between the anode and the cathode. In addition, a second substrate 2200 serving as an encapsulation substrate for encapsulation on the organic light emitting device may be further included.

Further, although not shown in the drawings, a polarizing plate may be further disposed between the light path control member 1000 and the display panel 2000. The polarizing plate may be a linear polarizing plate or an anti-reflection polarizing plate. For example, when the display panel 2000 is a liquid crystal display panel, the polarizing plate may be a linear polarizing plate. In addition, when the display panel 2000 is an organic light emitting display panel, the polarizing plate may be a polarizing plate for preventing reflection of external light.

In addition, an additional functional layer 1300 such as an anti-reflection layer or anti-glare may be further disposed on the light path control member 1000. In detail, the functional layer 1300 may be adhered to one surface of the base substrate 100 of the light path control member. Although not shown in the drawings, the functional layer 1300 may be adhered to each other through the base substrate 100 and the adhesive layer of the light path control member. In addition, a release film for protecting the functional layer may be further disposed on the functional layer 1300.

In addition, a touch panel may be further disposed between the display panel and the light path control member.

In the drawings, it is illustrated that the light path control member is disposed above the display panel, but embodiments are not limited thereto, and the light control member is a position at which light can be adjusted, that is, a lower portion of the display panel or the display panel It may be disposed in various positions, such as between the second substrate and the first substrate.

29 and 30, the optical path control member according to the embodiment may be applied to a vehicle.

29 and 30, the light path control member according to the embodiment may be applied to a display device displaying a display.

For example, when power is not applied to the light path control member as shown in FIG. 29, the receiving part functions as a light blocking unit, the display device is driven in a light-shielding mode, and power is applied to the light path control member as shown in FIG. In this case, the receiving portion functions as a light transmitting portion, so that the display device can be driven in the open mode.

Accordingly, the user can easily drive the display device in the privacy mode or the normal mode according to the application of power.

In addition, although not shown in the drawings. The display device to which the light path control member according to the embodiment is applied may also be applied to the interior of a vehicle.

For example, the display device including the light path control member according to the embodiment may display vehicle information and an image confirming the movement path of the vehicle. The display device may be disposed between a driver's seat and a passenger seat of a vehicle.

In addition, the optical path control member according to the embodiment may be applied to an instrument panel that displays a vehicle speed, an engine, and a warning signal.

In addition, the light path control member according to the embodiment may be applied to the windshield (FG) or left and right window glass of a vehicle.

Features, structures, effects, and the like described in the above-described embodiments are included in at least one embodiment of the present invention, and are not necessarily limited to only one embodiment. Furthermore, the features, structures, effects, and the like illustrated in each embodiment may be combined or modified for other embodiments by a person having ordinary knowledge in the field to which the embodiments belong. Therefore, contents related to such combinations and modifications should be construed as being included in the scope of the present invention.

In addition, although the embodiments have been described above, these are only examples and do not limit the present invention, and those of ordinary skill in the field to which the present invention pertains are illustrated above within the scope not departing from the essential characteristics of the present embodiment. It will be seen that various modifications and applications that have not been made are possible. For example, each component specifically shown in the embodiments can be modified and implemented. And differences related to these modifications and applications should be construed as being included in the scope of the present invention defined in the appended claims.

Claims (13)

A first substrate;
A first electrode disposed on the first substrate;
A second substrate disposed on the first substrate;
A second electrode disposed under the second substrate; And
A light conversion unit disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode,
The light conversion unit includes a partition wall portion and a receiving portion alternately disposed,
The accommodating portion changes the light transmittance according to the application of a voltage,
The receiving portion includes a dispersion and light absorbing particles dispersed in the dispersion,
A plurality of first protruding patterns are formed on one surface of the first substrate,
A plurality of second protruding patterns are formed on one surface of the second substrate,
The first protruding pattern and the second protruding pattern are formed in a region overlapping the partition wall portion. The method of claim 1,
The first electrode and the second electrode include a plurality of pattern electrodes,
The pattern electrode of the first electrode is disposed between the first protruding pattern,
The pattern electrode of the second electrode is a light path control member disposed between the second protruding pattern. The method of claim 2,
A light path control member in which the pattern electrode of the first electrode and the pattern electrode of the second electrode are disposed in a region overlapping with the accommodating portion. The method of claim 1,
The first protruding pattern and the second protruding pattern are formed only in a region overlapping the partition wall portion. The method of claim 1,
The first protruding pattern and the first electrode are disposed on the same surface of the first substrate,
The second protruding pattern and the second electrode are disposed on the same surface of the second substrate. The method of claim 1,
The first protruding pattern is disposed on one surface of the first substrate,
The first electrode is disposed on the other surface opposite to the one surface of the first substrate,
The second protruding pattern is disposed on one surface of the second substrate,
The second electrode is a light path control member disposed on the other surface opposite to the one surface of the second substrate. The method of claim 6,
The first electrode and the second electrode are disposed in a region overlapping the partition wall portion and the receiving portion. The method of claim 1,
The first protruding pattern is disposed on one surface of the first substrate,
The first electrode is disposed on the other surface opposite to the one surface of the first substrate,
The second protruding pattern and the second electrode are disposed on the same surface of the second substrate. Display panel; And
A light path control member disposed on the display panel,
The optical path control member,
A first substrate;
A first electrode disposed on the first substrate;
A second substrate disposed on the first substrate;
A second electrode disposed under the second substrate; And
A light conversion unit disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode,
The light conversion unit includes a partition wall portion and a receiving portion alternately disposed,
The accommodating portion changes the light transmittance according to the application of a voltage,
The receiving portion includes a dispersion and light absorbing particles dispersed in the dispersion,
A plurality of first protruding patterns are formed on one surface of the first substrate,
A plurality of second protruding patterns are formed on one surface of the second substrate,
The first protruding pattern and the second protruding pattern are formed in a region overlapping the partition wall portion. The method of claim 9,
The display panel includes a backlight module,
The backlight module,
A light source that emits light,
A light guide plate into which light emitted from the light source is incident;
Including a diffusion sheet disposed on the light guide plate,
A display device disposed so that the diffusion sheet and the first substrate directly face each other. The method of claim 9,
The pattern electrode of the first electrode and the pattern electrode of the second electrode are disposed in a region overlapping the receiving portion,
The first protruding pattern and the second protruding pattern are formed only in a region overlapping the partition wall portion. The method of claim 9,
The first protruding pattern and the first electrode are disposed on the same surface of the first substrate,
The second protruding pattern and the second electrode are disposed on the same surface of the second substrate. The method of claim 9,
The first protruding pattern is disposed on one surface of the first substrate,
The first electrode is disposed on the other surface opposite to the one surface of the first substrate,
The second protruding pattern is disposed on one surface of the second substrate,
The second electrode is disposed on the other surface opposite to the one surface of the second substrate.

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