TW201312208A - Liquid crystal element and liquid crystal display device - Google Patents

Liquid crystal element and liquid crystal display device Download PDF

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TW201312208A
TW201312208A TW101131157A TW101131157A TW201312208A TW 201312208 A TW201312208 A TW 201312208A TW 101131157 A TW101131157 A TW 101131157A TW 101131157 A TW101131157 A TW 101131157A TW 201312208 A TW201312208 A TW 201312208A
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liquid crystal
electrode
substrate
alignment
crystal layer
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TWI576633B (en
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Yasuo Toko
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Stanley Electric Co Ltd
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    • GPHYSICS
    • G02OPTICS
    • G02FOPTICAL DEVICES OR ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE CONTROL OF LIGHT BY MODIFICATION OF THE OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF THE MEDIA OF THE ELEMENTS INVOLVED THEREIN; NON-LINEAR OPTICS; FREQUENCY-CHANGING OF LIGHT; OPTICAL LOGIC ELEMENTS; OPTICAL ANALOGUE/DIGITAL CONVERTERS
    • G02F1/00Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulating; Non-linear optics
    • G02F1/01Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulating; Non-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour 
    • G02F1/13Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulating; Non-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour  based on liquid crystals, e.g. single liquid crystal display cells
    • G02F1/133Constructional arrangements; Operation of liquid crystal cells; Circuit arrangements
    • G02F1/1333Constructional arrangements; Manufacturing methods
    • G02F1/1337Surface-induced orientation of the liquid crystal molecules, e.g. by alignment layers
    • G02F1/133753Surface-induced orientation of the liquid crystal molecules, e.g. by alignment layers with different alignment orientations or pretilt angles on a same surface, e.g. for grey scale or improved viewing angle
    • CCHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C09DYES; PAINTS; POLISHES; NATURAL RESINS; ADHESIVES; COMPOSITIONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; APPLICATIONS OF MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • C09KMATERIALS FOR MISCELLANEOUS APPLICATIONS, NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • C09K19/00Liquid crystal materials
    • C09K19/52Liquid crystal materials characterised by components which are not liquid crystals, e.g. additives with special physical aspect: solvents, solid particles
    • C09K19/54Additives having no specific mesophase characterised by their chemical composition
    • C09K19/56Aligning agents
    • CCHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C09DYES; PAINTS; POLISHES; NATURAL RESINS; ADHESIVES; COMPOSITIONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; APPLICATIONS OF MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • C09KMATERIALS FOR MISCELLANEOUS APPLICATIONS, NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • C09K19/00Liquid crystal materials
    • C09K19/52Liquid crystal materials characterised by components which are not liquid crystals, e.g. additives with special physical aspect: solvents, solid particles
    • C09K19/58Dopants or charge transfer agents
    • C09K19/586Optically active dopants; chiral dopants
    • GPHYSICS
    • G02OPTICS
    • G02FOPTICAL DEVICES OR ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE CONTROL OF LIGHT BY MODIFICATION OF THE OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF THE MEDIA OF THE ELEMENTS INVOLVED THEREIN; NON-LINEAR OPTICS; FREQUENCY-CHANGING OF LIGHT; OPTICAL LOGIC ELEMENTS; OPTICAL ANALOGUE/DIGITAL CONVERTERS
    • G02F1/00Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulating; Non-linear optics
    • G02F1/01Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulating; Non-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour 
    • G02F1/13Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulating; Non-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour  based on liquid crystals, e.g. single liquid crystal display cells
    • G02F1/133Constructional arrangements; Operation of liquid crystal cells; Circuit arrangements
    • G02F1/1333Constructional arrangements; Manufacturing methods
    • G02F1/1343Electrodes
    • GPHYSICS
    • G02OPTICS
    • G02FOPTICAL DEVICES OR ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE CONTROL OF LIGHT BY MODIFICATION OF THE OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF THE MEDIA OF THE ELEMENTS INVOLVED THEREIN; NON-LINEAR OPTICS; FREQUENCY-CHANGING OF LIGHT; OPTICAL LOGIC ELEMENTS; OPTICAL ANALOGUE/DIGITAL CONVERTERS
    • G02F1/00Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulating; Non-linear optics
    • G02F1/01Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulating; Non-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour 
    • G02F1/13Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulating; Non-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour  based on liquid crystals, e.g. single liquid crystal display cells
    • G02F1/133Constructional arrangements; Operation of liquid crystal cells; Circuit arrangements
    • G02F1/1333Constructional arrangements; Manufacturing methods
    • G02F1/1337Surface-induced orientation of the liquid crystal molecules, e.g. by alignment layers
    • G02F1/133753Surface-induced orientation of the liquid crystal molecules, e.g. by alignment layers with different alignment orientations or pretilt angles on a same surface, e.g. for grey scale or improved viewing angle
    • G02F1/133757Surface-induced orientation of the liquid crystal molecules, e.g. by alignment layers with different alignment orientations or pretilt angles on a same surface, e.g. for grey scale or improved viewing angle with different alignment orientations

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Crystallography & Structural Chemistry (AREA)
  • Nonlinear Science (AREA)
  • Liquid Crystal (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Materials Engineering (AREA)
  • Organic Chemistry (AREA)
  • Mathematical Physics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Spectroscopy & Molecular Physics (AREA)

Abstract

The invention provides a novel liquid crystal element and liquid crystal display device. The liquid crystal element comprises: a first substrate, a second substrate, a first electrode disposed on the first substrate, a second electrode disposed on one side of the first substrate in a manner of separating from the first substrate, a switch element connected with the first and the second electrodes, a common electrode disposed on the second substrate and overlapped with the first and the second electrodes, and a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first and the second substrates. The alignment direction of the first and the second substrates is configured as a first alignment status for allowing the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer to be twisted toward the first direction, wherein the liquid crystal layer contains characteristic material for generating a second alignment status. The second alignment status represents that the liquid crystal molecules are twisted reversibly toward the first direction, so that the liquid crystal layer is changed toward the first alignment status via the application of voltage thereon between the second electrode and the common electrode, and the liquid crystal layer is changed toward the second alignment status via the application of voltage thereon between the first electrode and the second electrode.

Description

液晶元件、液晶顯示裝置 Liquid crystal element, liquid crystal display device

本發明係有關利用兩種配向狀態間的轉變之新穎的液晶元件以及液晶顯示裝置。 The present invention relates to novel liquid crystal elements and liquid crystal display devices that utilize transitions between two alignment states.

在日本特許第2510150號公報(專利文獻1)中公開如下這樣的液晶顯示裝置:液晶分子之配向處理為藉由與旋轉方向相反的旋轉方向扭轉液晶分子的配向來提高電光特性(習知例1),該旋轉方向係以分別對相對配置的一對基板實施配向處理的方向的組合來限制。另外,在日本特開2007-293278號公報(專利文獻2)中公開了如下這樣的液晶元件:其添加了朝向與旋轉方向(第1旋轉方向)相反的旋轉方向(第2旋轉方向)扭轉的手性劑,該旋轉方向係以分別對相對配置的一對基板實施配向處理的方向的組合來限制,並且使液晶分子朝向上述第1旋轉方向扭轉來實施配向處理,由此增加液晶層內的變形,從而能夠進一步降低閾值電壓而進行低電壓驅動(習知例2)。 Japanese Patent No. 2510150 (Patent Document 1) discloses a liquid crystal display device in which alignment treatment of liquid crystal molecules is performed by twisting the alignment of liquid crystal molecules in a rotation direction opposite to the rotation direction to improve electro-optical characteristics (Conventional Example 1) The direction of rotation is limited by a combination of directions in which alignment treatment is performed on a pair of substrates disposed opposite each other. Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2007-293278 (Patent Document 2) discloses a liquid crystal element in which a twist is applied in a rotation direction (second rotation direction) opposite to a rotation direction (first rotation direction). In the chiral agent, the direction of rotation is restricted by a combination of directions in which the pair of substrates disposed oppositely are aligned, and the liquid crystal molecules are twisted in the first rotation direction to perform alignment processing, thereby increasing the liquid crystal layer. The deformation makes it possible to further lower the threshold voltage and perform low voltage driving (Conventional Example 2).

但是,在上述習知例1的液晶顯示裝置中,逆扭轉的配向狀態不穩定,雖然可對液晶層施加比較高的電壓來獲得逆扭轉的配向狀態,但是存在隨著時間經過會向正扭轉的配向狀態轉變的問題。另外,習知例2的液晶元件如上所述具有使閾值電壓降低的優點,但存在如下問題:當電壓關斷時,立刻(例如幾秒左右)轉變為正扭轉的配向狀態,反之則要提高閾值電壓。另外,在習知例1、2的任意一個中,沒有設想到將正扭轉與逆扭轉這兩種配向狀態積極利用於顯示等用途。即,完全沒有公開和暗示積極利用雙穩定性所需的結構、驅動方法等技術思想。 However, in the liquid crystal display device of the above-described conventional example 1, the alignment state of the reverse twist is unstable, and a relatively high voltage can be applied to the liquid crystal layer to obtain a reverse twist alignment state, but there is a positive twist with time. The problem of the transition of the alignment state. Further, the liquid crystal element of Conventional Example 2 has an advantage of lowering the threshold voltage as described above, but has a problem that when the voltage is turned off, it immediately changes to a positively twisted alignment state (for example, a few seconds or so), and vice versa. Threshold voltage. Further, in any of the conventional examples 1 and 2, it is not assumed that the two types of alignment states, positive torsion and reverse torsion, are actively used for display or the like. That is, there is no disclosure or suggestion of a technical idea such as a structure, a driving method, and the like which are required to actively utilize the bi-stability.

對此,在日本特開2010-186045號公報(專利文獻3)中公開了與反向TN(Reverse Twisted Nematic:逆扭轉向列)型的液晶元件相關的技術:這種液晶元件在初始狀態下為延展(spray)扭轉配向,但當施加了一次縱向電場時,穩定於逆扭轉配向(習知例3)。但是,習知例3的液晶元件在獲得良好對比度的範圍較窄這一點上還有改良的餘地。 In this regard, a technique relating to a reverse TN (Reverse Twisted Nematic) type liquid crystal element is disclosed in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2010-186045 (Patent Document 3): For the reverse twist orientation, when a vertical electric field is applied, the reverse twist alignment is stabilized (conventional example 3). However, the liquid crystal element of Conventional Example 3 has room for improvement in that the range in which good contrast is obtained is narrow.

因此,本申請的發明人對能消除上述習知例1~3中的問題之新穎的反 向TN型的液晶元件進行了研究。另外,作為採用了上述新穎的反向TN型液晶元件的液晶顯示裝置的一個方式,本申請的發明人還對排列多個液晶元件並使用薄膜電晶體等開關元件分別驅動各個液晶元件的液晶顯示裝置進行了研究。這裏,例如在日本特許第4238877號公報(專利文獻4)中公開了用於進行採用了水平電場的驅動的開關元件以及電極的構造例(習知例4)。但是,該習知例4所公開的開關元件以及電極的構造不適合驅動本申請發明人所研發出之新穎的反向TN型液晶元件。 Therefore, the inventors of the present application have a novel anti-cancellation against the problems in the above conventional examples 1 to 3. The TN type liquid crystal element was studied. Moreover, as one aspect of the liquid crystal display device using the above-described novel reverse TN type liquid crystal element, the inventors of the present application also drive liquid crystal display of each liquid crystal element by arranging a plurality of liquid crystal elements and using switching elements such as thin film transistors. The device was studied. Here, for example, Japanese Patent No. 4,238, 877 (Patent Document 4) discloses a configuration example of a switching element and an electrode for driving a horizontal electric field (Conventional Example 4). However, the configuration of the switching element and the electrode disclosed in the conventional example 4 is not suitable for driving the novel reverse TN type liquid crystal element developed by the inventors of the present application.

專利文獻 Patent literature

【專利文獻1】日本特許第2510150號公報 [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent No. 2510150

【專利文獻2】日本特開2007-293278號公報 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2007-293278

【專利文獻3】日本特開2010-186045號公報 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2010-186045

【專利文獻4】日本特許第4238877號公報 [Patent Document 4] Japanese Patent No. 4238877

本發明的具體方式的目的之一是提供一種具有適合產生兩種配向狀態間的轉變的開關元件及電極的構造之新穎的液晶元件。 It is an object of a specific aspect of the present invention to provide a novel liquid crystal element having a configuration of a switching element and an electrode suitable for generating a transition between two alignment states.

另外,本發明的具體方式的另一個目的是提供一種能夠使用新穎的液晶元件進行低耗電驅動的液晶顯示裝置。 Further, another object of a specific aspect of the present invention is to provide a liquid crystal display device which can be driven with low power consumption using a novel liquid crystal element.

本發明的一個方式的液晶元件的特徵在於,其包含:(a)相對配置的第1基板以及第2基板,它們各自的一面被實施了配向處理;(b)第1電極,其設置在所述第1基板的一面側;(c)第2電極,其與該第1電極相離地設置在該第1基板的一面側;(d)開關元件,其設置在該第1基板的一面側,與該第1電極或該第2電極連接;(e)公共電極,其以至少一部分與該第1電極以及該第2電極重疊的方式設置在該第2基板的一面側;以及(f)液晶層,其設置在該第1基板的一面與該第2基板的一面之間,其中(g)該第1基板以及該第2基板的該配向處理的方向被設定為產生第1配向狀態,該第1配向狀態使該液晶層的液晶分子朝向第1方向扭轉,(h)該液晶層含有產生第2配向狀態的性質的手性材料,該第2配向狀態使該液晶分子朝向與該第1方向相反的第2方向扭轉,(i)藉由對該第2電極與該公共電極之間施加電壓,使得該液晶層從該第2配向狀態向該第1配向狀態轉變,藉由對 該第1電極與該第2電極之間施加電壓,使得該液晶層從該第1配向狀態向該第2配向狀態轉變。 A liquid crystal element according to an aspect of the present invention includes: (a) a first substrate and a second substrate which are disposed to face each other, wherein one surface of each of the first substrate and the second substrate is subjected to alignment processing; and (b) a first electrode is provided in the first electrode One side of the first substrate; (c) a second electrode provided on one surface side of the first substrate so as to be apart from the first electrode; and (d) a switching element provided on one surface side of the first substrate And (e) the common electrode is provided on one surface side of the second substrate so that at least a portion thereof overlaps the first electrode and the second electrode; and (f) The liquid crystal layer is disposed between one surface of the first substrate and one surface of the second substrate, wherein (g) the direction of the alignment processing of the first substrate and the second substrate is set to generate a first alignment state. In the first alignment state, the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer are twisted in the first direction, and (h) the liquid crystal layer contains a chiral material having a property of a second alignment state, and the second alignment state causes the liquid crystal molecules to face the first 1 is twisted in the second direction opposite to the direction, (i) by the second electrode and the common electrode Applying a voltage between the liquid crystal layer and the first alignment state to the first alignment state, by A voltage is applied between the first electrode and the second electrode to cause the liquid crystal layer to transition from the first alignment state to the second alignment state.

根據上述結構,能夠獲得具有適合產生兩種配向狀態間的轉變的開關元件以及電極的構造的新穎的液晶元件。 According to the above configuration, it is possible to obtain a novel liquid crystal element having a configuration of a switching element and an electrode suitable for generating a transition between two alignment states.

在上述液晶元件中,較佳地,該第1電極與該第2電極中的至少一個具有相互分離地平行配置的多個直線部。另外,較佳地,該第1電極與該第2電極隔著絕緣膜而層疊。 In the above liquid crystal element, preferably, at least one of the first electrode and the second electrode has a plurality of straight portions which are arranged in parallel to each other. Further, preferably, the first electrode and the second electrode are laminated via an insulating film.

由此,能夠更有效地對液晶層施加產生兩種配向狀態間的轉變所需之與基板面平行的方向的電場(橫向電場)。 Thereby, an electric field (transverse electric field) in a direction parallel to the substrate surface required for the transition between the two alignment states can be more effectively applied to the liquid crystal layer.

在上述液晶元件中,較佳地,關於該第1基板和該第2基板,在各自與該液晶層的介面中對該液晶層的液晶分子賦予了20°以上的預傾角。另外,較佳地,以使該液晶層的層厚d與手性間距之比d/p為0.04以上0.6以下的方式,添加了該手性材料。 In the above liquid crystal element, it is preferable that the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer have a pretilt angle of 20 or more in the interface between the first substrate and the second substrate. Further, it is preferable to add the chiral material so that the ratio d/p of the layer thickness d of the liquid crystal layer to the chiral pitch is 0.04 or more and 0.6 or less.

由此,能夠進一步提高兩種配向狀態的雙穩定性。 Thereby, the bistable stability of the two alignment states can be further improved.

本發明的一個方式的液晶顯示裝置具備多個像素部,該多個像素部的各個像素部分別是用上述本發明的液晶元件來構成。 A liquid crystal display device according to an aspect of the present invention includes a plurality of pixel portions, and each of the pixel portions of the plurality of pixel portions is configured by the liquid crystal element of the present invention described above.

根據上述結構,藉由利用液晶元件的兩種配向狀態的雙穩定性(儲存性),能夠獲得除了顯示改寫時以外基本不需要電力之低耗電的液晶顯示裝置。 According to the above configuration, by utilizing the bistable (storability) of the two alignment states of the liquid crystal element, it is possible to obtain a liquid crystal display device which consumes substantially no power except for display rewriting.

以下,參照附圖來說明本發明的實施方式。 Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

第1圖是概略地示出反向TN型液晶元件的原理的示意圖。在反向TN型液晶元件中,作為基本結構,具備相對配置的上側基板1和下側基板2以及設置於它們之間的液晶層3。上側基板1與下側基板2各自的表面被實施了摩擦處理等配向處理。以它們的配向處理的方向(在圖中用箭頭表示)按照90°左右的角度彼此交叉的方式,相對地配置上側基板1與下側基板2。藉由向上側基板1與下側基板2之間注入向列型液晶材料來形成液晶層3。該液晶層3採用了添加有手性材料的液晶材料,該手性材料產生使液晶分子在其方位角方向上朝向特定的方向(在第1圖的例子中為右旋轉方向) 扭轉的作用。當設上側基板1與下側基板2的相互間隔(單元厚度)為d、手性材料的手性間距為p時,它們之比d/p的值例如被設定為0.04~0.6左右。這樣的反向TN型液晶元件藉由手性材料的作用而在初始狀態下成為液晶層3在延展配向的同時進行扭轉的延展扭轉狀態(第2配向狀態)。當在其層厚方向上對該延展扭轉狀態的液晶層3施加超過飽和電壓的電壓時,液晶分子轉變為朝向左旋轉方向扭轉的逆扭轉狀態(均勻扭轉(Uniform Twist)狀態:第1配向狀態)。在這種逆扭轉狀態的液晶層3中,因為主體中的液晶分子傾斜,所以表現出降低液晶元件的驅動電壓的效果。 Fig. 1 is a schematic view schematically showing the principle of a reverse TN type liquid crystal element. In the reverse TN type liquid crystal element, as the basic structure, the upper substrate 1 and the lower substrate 2 which are opposed to each other and the liquid crystal layer 3 provided therebetween are provided. The surfaces of the upper substrate 1 and the lower substrate 2 are subjected to alignment processing such as rubbing treatment. The upper substrate 1 and the lower substrate 2 are opposed to each other in such a manner that their alignment processing (indicated by arrows in the drawing) intersects each other at an angle of about 90 degrees. The liquid crystal layer 3 is formed by injecting a nematic liquid crystal material between the upper substrate 1 and the lower substrate 2. The liquid crystal layer 3 employs a liquid crystal material to which a chiral material is added, which causes the liquid crystal molecules to face in a specific direction in the azimuthal direction (the right direction of rotation in the example of Fig. 1) The role of twisting. When the distance between the upper substrate 1 and the lower substrate 2 (unit thickness) is d and the chiral distance of the chiral material is p, the ratio of the ratio d/p is set to, for example, about 0.04 to 0.6. In the reverse TN type liquid crystal element, the liquid crystal layer 3 is twisted and stretched in the initial state (in the second alignment state) while being in the extended state by the action of the chiral material. When a voltage exceeding the saturation voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer 3 in the twisted state in the layer thickness direction, the liquid crystal molecules are converted into a reverse twist state which is twisted in the left rotation direction (Uniform Twist state: first alignment state) ). In the liquid crystal layer 3 in this reverse twist state, since the liquid crystal molecules in the main body are inclined, the effect of lowering the driving voltage of the liquid crystal element is exhibited.

第2圖是用於說明從逆扭轉狀態向延展扭轉狀態轉變時液晶層的配向狀態與電場方向的關係的概念圖。如第2圖(A)所示,針對相對於基板面處於水平方向的電場,將電場的施加方向設定為,使其與逆扭轉狀態下液晶層的層厚方向之大致中央的液晶分子(圖中為附有圖樣的液晶分子)的長軸方向儘量不平行,而是成為垂直或接近垂直的狀態。由此,液晶層的層厚方向之大致中央的液晶分子沿著電場方向重新進行配向,所以如第2圖(B)所示,液晶層的配向狀態從逆扭轉狀態轉變至延展扭轉狀態。此外,當對逆扭轉狀態的液晶層施加了電場而使其成為與該層厚方向大致中央的液晶分子的長軸方向平行或接近平行的狀態時,難以產生從逆扭轉狀態向延展扭轉狀態的轉變。這是因為,在液晶層的層厚方向的大致中央,幾乎不會因電場而產生液晶分子的重新配向。根據以上情況,為了在反向TN型液晶元件中在兩種配向狀態之間自如地轉變,需要產生與液晶層的層厚方向相應的電場(縱向電場)和與其垂直的方向的電場(橫向電場),而且對於橫向電場而言,需要成為與逆扭轉狀態的液晶層的層厚方向之大致中央的液晶分子的長軸方向大致垂直或者接近於垂直的方向。關於用於自如地施加這些縱向電場與橫向電場的元件構造,以下舉出具體例子進行說明。 Fig. 2 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the relationship between the alignment state of the liquid crystal layer and the direction of the electric field when transitioning from the reverse twist state to the extended twist state. As shown in FIG. 2(A), the electric field applied in the horizontal direction with respect to the substrate surface is set so as to be a liquid crystal molecule substantially in the center of the thickness direction of the liquid crystal layer in the reverse twist state (Fig. The direction of the long axis of the liquid crystal molecule with the pattern attached is as parallel as possible, but becomes a vertical or nearly vertical state. Thereby, the liquid crystal molecules in the substantially center of the thickness direction of the liquid crystal layer are realigned in the direction of the electric field. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 2(B), the alignment state of the liquid crystal layer changes from the reverse twist state to the extended twist state. In addition, when an electric field is applied to the liquid crystal layer in the reverse twist state so as to be parallel or nearly parallel to the long-axis direction of the liquid crystal molecules substantially in the center of the layer thickness direction, it is difficult to generate the twisted state from the reverse twist state to the extended twist state. change. This is because, in the substantially center of the thickness direction of the liquid crystal layer, realignment of liquid crystal molecules is hardly caused by an electric field. According to the above, in order to freely transition between the two alignment states in the reverse TN type liquid crystal element, it is necessary to generate an electric field (longitudinal electric field) corresponding to the layer thickness direction of the liquid crystal layer and an electric field in the direction perpendicular thereto (transverse electric field) Further, the transverse electric field needs to be substantially perpendicular to or perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the liquid crystal molecules substantially at the center of the layer thickness direction of the liquid crystal layer in the reverse twist state. Regarding the element structure for freely applying these longitudinal electric field and transverse electric field, a specific example will be described below.

第3圖是示出第1實施方式反向TN型液晶元件的結構例的剖面圖。另外,第4圖是第3圖所示反向TN型液晶元件的俯視圖。此外,第3圖示出第4圖所示II-II線處的剖面。各圖所示本實施方式的反向TN型液晶元件構成為包含:第1基板(下側基板)11、第2基板(上側基板)12、第1電極13、公共線14、掃描線15、絕緣膜16、半導體膜17、源電極18、汲電極19、第2電極(像素電極)20、第1配向膜21、第2配向膜22、公共電極23、液 晶層24、信號線25、第1偏光板(下側偏光板)31以及第2偏光板(上側偏光板)32。 Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of a reverse TN liquid crystal element of the first embodiment. In addition, Fig. 4 is a plan view of the reverse TN type liquid crystal element shown in Fig. 3. Further, Fig. 3 shows a cross section taken along line II-II shown in Fig. 4. The reverse TN liquid crystal element of the present embodiment shown in the drawings includes a first substrate (lower substrate) 11, a second substrate (upper substrate) 12, a first electrode 13, a common line 14, and a scanning line 15, The insulating film 16, the semiconductor film 17, the source electrode 18, the germanium electrode 19, the second electrode (pixel electrode) 20, the first alignment film 21, the second alignment film 22, the common electrode 23, and the liquid The crystal layer 24, the signal line 25, the first polarizing plate (lower polarizing plate) 31, and the second polarizing plate (upper polarizing plate) 32.

第1基板11以及第2基板12彼此相對配置,例如分別是玻璃基板、塑膠基板等透明基板。在第1基板11與第2基板12彼此之間,例如分散地配置有多個間隔物(粒狀體)(未圖示),利用這些間隔物來保持第1基板11與第2基板12之間的相互間隔。 The first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 are arranged to face each other, and are, for example, transparent substrates such as a glass substrate and a plastic substrate. A plurality of spacers (granular bodies) (not shown) are disposed, for example, in a dispersed manner between the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12, and the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 are held by the spacers. Interval between each other.

在第1基板11的一面側設置有第1電極13。該第1電極13如第4圖所示例如形成為大致矩形,而且其一部分與公共線14連接。例如藉由圖案化氧化銦錫(ITO)等透明導電膜來獲得第1電極13。 The first electrode 13 is provided on one surface side of the first substrate 11. As shown in FIG. 4, the first electrode 13 is formed, for example, in a substantially rectangular shape, and a part thereof is connected to the common line 14. The first electrode 13 is obtained, for example, by patterning a transparent conductive film such as indium tin oxide (ITO).

在第1基板11的一面側設置有公共線14,該公共線14在一個方向(第4圖所示的Y方向)上延伸。經由公共線14,從未圖示的電壓供給單元對第1電極13提供規定的電位。作為公共線14,例如可採用鋁與鉬的層疊膜等金屬膜。 A common line 14 is provided on one surface side of the first substrate 11, and the common line 14 extends in one direction (Y direction shown in Fig. 4). A predetermined potential is supplied to the first electrode 13 via a common line 14 from a voltage supply unit (not shown). As the common line 14, for example, a metal film such as a laminated film of aluminum and molybdenum can be used.

在第1基板11的一面側設置有掃描線15,該掃描線15在一個方向(第4圖所示Y方向)上延伸。如第4圖所示,本例的掃描線15與公共線14之間隔著第1電極13進行配置。作為掃描線15,例如可採用鋁與鉬的層疊膜等金屬膜。 A scanning line 15 is provided on one surface side of the first substrate 11, and the scanning line 15 extends in one direction (Y direction shown in Fig. 4). As shown in FIG. 4, the scanning line 15 of this example and the common line 14 are arranged with the first electrode 13 interposed therebetween. As the scanning line 15, for example, a metal film such as a laminated film of aluminum and molybdenum can be used.

在第1基板11的一面側,以覆蓋第1電極13、公共線14以及掃描線15的方式設置了絕緣膜16。作為絕緣膜16,例如可採用氮化矽膜、氧化矽膜或者它們的層疊膜。 The insulating film 16 is provided on one surface side of the first substrate 11 so as to cover the first electrode 13, the common line 14, and the scanning line 15. As the insulating film 16, for example, a tantalum nitride film, a hafnium oxide film, or a laminated film thereof can be used.

在絕緣膜16上,於與掃描線15重疊的規定位置處設置有半導體膜17。該半導體膜17如第4圖所示被圖案化成島狀。作為半導體膜17,例如可採用非晶矽膜。掃描線15的與半導體膜17重疊的部分作為薄膜電晶體的閘電極發揮功能。另外,絕緣膜16的與半導體17重疊的部分作為薄膜電晶體的閘絕緣膜發揮功能。 On the insulating film 16, a semiconductor film 17 is provided at a predetermined position overlapping the scanning line 15. The semiconductor film 17 is patterned into an island shape as shown in Fig. 4 . As the semiconductor film 17, for example, an amorphous germanium film can be used. A portion of the scanning line 15 that overlaps with the semiconductor film 17 functions as a gate electrode of the thin film transistor. Further, a portion of the insulating film 16 that overlaps with the semiconductor 17 functions as a gate insulating film of the thin film transistor.

在絕緣膜16上的規定位置處設置了源電極18,其一部分與半導體膜17連接。本例的源電極18如第4圖所示與信號線25形成為一體。作為這些源電極18以及信號線25,例如可採用鋁與鉬的層疊膜等金屬膜。 A source electrode 18 is provided at a predetermined position on the insulating film 16, and a part thereof is connected to the semiconductor film 17. The source electrode 18 of this example is formed integrally with the signal line 25 as shown in FIG. As the source electrode 18 and the signal line 25, for example, a metal film such as a laminated film of aluminum and molybdenum can be used.

在絕緣膜16上的規定位置處設置有汲電極19,其一部分與半導體膜17連接。作為汲電極19,例如可採用鋁與鉬的層疊膜等金屬膜。 A germanium electrode 19 is provided at a predetermined position on the insulating film 16, and a part thereof is connected to the semiconductor film 17. As the ruthenium electrode 19, for example, a metal film such as a laminated film of aluminum and molybdenum can be used.

在絕緣膜16上,第2電極20被設置在其至少一部分與上述第1電極13重疊的規定位置處。第2電極20如第4圖所示具有多個開口部(縫隙)20a。例如藉由圖案化氧化銦錫(ITO)等透明導電膜來獲得第2電極20。關於第2電極20的尺寸,例如可設為:位於各開口部20a之間的直線部的寬度(第3圖X方向上的長度)約為20μm,各開口部20a的寬度(第3圖的X方向上的長度)約為20μm。藉由在第2電極20與第1電極13之間施加電壓來對液晶層24施加橫向電場。 The second electrode 20 is provided on the insulating film 16 at a predetermined position at least a part of which overlaps the first electrode 13. The second electrode 20 has a plurality of openings (slits) 20a as shown in Fig. 4 . The second electrode 20 is obtained, for example, by patterning a transparent conductive film such as indium tin oxide (ITO). For the size of the second electrode 20, for example, the width of the straight portion between the openings 20a (the length in the direction of the third drawing X) is about 20 μm, and the width of each opening 20a (the third drawing) The length in the X direction is about 20 μm. A transverse electric field is applied to the liquid crystal layer 24 by applying a voltage between the second electrode 20 and the first electrode 13.

在第1基板11的一面側的絕緣膜16上以覆蓋半導體膜17、源電極18、汲電極19以及第2電極20的方式設置了第1配向膜21。同樣,在第2基板12的一面側以覆蓋公共電極23的方式設置了第2配向膜22。對第1配向膜21與第2配向膜22分別實施了單軸配向處理(例如,摩擦處理、光配向處理等)。作為本實確方式的第1配向膜21以及第2配向膜22,採用了能夠產生比較高的預傾角(20°以上,更佳為35°±10°左右)的配向膜。第1配向膜21的配向處理的方向RL與第2配向膜22的配向處理的方向RL被設定為,使得液晶層24的配向狀態為逆扭轉狀態時層厚方向之大致中央的液晶分子的配向方向D與由第1電極13和第2電極20產生之電場方向E大致垂直(參照第4圖)。 The first alignment film 21 is provided on the insulating film 16 on one surface side of the first substrate 11 so as to cover the semiconductor film 17, the source electrode 18, the drain electrode 19, and the second electrode 20. Similarly, the second alignment film 22 is provided on one surface side of the second substrate 12 so as to cover the common electrode 23 . The first alignment film 21 and the second alignment film 22 are subjected to a uniaxial alignment treatment (for example, a rubbing treatment or a photo alignment treatment). As the first alignment film 21 and the second alignment film 22 of the present embodiment, an alignment film capable of generating a relatively high pretilt angle (20° or more, more preferably 35°±10°) is used. The direction RL of the alignment treatment RL of the first alignment film 21 and the alignment treatment of the second alignment film 22 is set such that the alignment state of the liquid crystal layer 24 is the alignment of liquid crystal molecules in the substantially center of the layer thickness direction in the reverse twist state. The direction D is substantially perpendicular to the electric field direction E generated by the first electrode 13 and the second electrode 20 (see FIG. 4).

在第2基板12的一面側設置有公共電極23。該公共電極23形成為其至少一部分與第1電極13以及第2電極20重疊。例如,藉由圖案化氧化銦錫(ITO)等透明導電膜來獲得公共電極23。藉由在公共電極23與第1電極13(或第2電極20)之間施加電壓,能夠對液晶層24施加縱向電場。 The common electrode 23 is provided on one surface side of the second substrate 12. The common electrode 23 is formed such that at least a part thereof overlaps with the first electrode 13 and the second electrode 20. The common electrode 23 is obtained, for example, by patterning a transparent conductive film such as indium tin oxide (ITO). A vertical electric field can be applied to the liquid crystal layer 24 by applying a voltage between the common electrode 23 and the first electrode 13 (or the second electrode 20).

在第1基板11的一面與第2基板12的一面彼此之間設置有液晶層24。在本實施方式中,採用了介電常數各向異性△ε為正(△ε>0)的向列型液晶材料來構成液晶層24。液晶層24中圖示的粗線示意性表示液晶層24內的液晶分子。未施加電壓時的液晶分子相對於第1基板11以及第2基板12各自之基板面以規定的預傾角進行配向。另外,第1配向膜21與第2配向膜22各自配向處理的方向RU、RL(參照第4圖)所成的角度例如被設定為90°左右,由此使得未施加電壓時液晶層24的液晶分子在第1基板11與第2基板12之間朝向方位角方向扭轉而進行配向。 A liquid crystal layer 24 is provided between one surface of the first substrate 11 and one surface of the second substrate 12. In the present embodiment, the liquid crystal layer 24 is constituted by a nematic liquid crystal material having a dielectric anisotropy Δ ε of positive (Δε>0). The thick line shown in the liquid crystal layer 24 schematically represents liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 24. The liquid crystal molecules when no voltage is applied are aligned with respect to the substrate surface of each of the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 at a predetermined pretilt angle. In addition, the angle formed by the directions RU and RL (see FIG. 4) in which the first alignment film 21 and the second alignment film 22 are aligned, for example, is set to about 90°, thereby making the liquid crystal layer 24 when no voltage is applied. The liquid crystal molecules are twisted in the azimuthal direction between the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 to be aligned.

在絕緣膜16的一面側設置有信號線25,該信號線25在與公共線14以 及掃描線15大致垂直的一個方向(第4圖所示的X方向)上延伸。如第4圖所示,本例的信號線25與源電極18形成為一體。作為信號線25,例如可採用鋁與鉬的層疊膜等金屬膜。 A signal line 25 is provided on one side of the insulating film 16, and the signal line 25 is on the common line 14 And the scanning line 15 extends in one direction (the X direction shown in FIG. 4) which is substantially perpendicular. As shown in FIG. 4, the signal line 25 of this example is formed integrally with the source electrode 18. As the signal line 25, for example, a metal film such as a laminated film of aluminum and molybdenum can be used.

在第1基板11的外側配置了第1偏光板31。在第2基板12的外側配置了第2偏光板32。在本實施方式中,使用者從第2偏光板32側進行目視觀察。這些第1偏光板31和第2偏光板32例如以彼此的透射軸大致垂直的方式進行配置(交叉尼科爾配置)。 The first polarizing plate 31 is disposed outside the first substrate 11. The second polarizing plate 32 is disposed outside the second substrate 12. In the present embodiment, the user visually observes from the side of the second polarizing plate 32. The first polarizing plate 31 and the second polarizing plate 32 are disposed, for example, such that their transmission axes are substantially perpendicular to each other (cross-Nicol arrangement).

接著,參照第5圖、第6圖來說明第1實施方式反向TN型液晶元件的製造方法的一例。 Next, an example of a method of manufacturing the reverse TN liquid crystal element of the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6 .

首先,準備作為第1基板11以及第2基板12而使用的玻璃基板。例如,採用由板厚為0.7mm的無鹼玻璃構成的玻璃基板。 First, a glass substrate to be used as the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 is prepared. For example, a glass substrate composed of an alkali-free glass having a thickness of 0.7 mm is used.

接著,在第1基板11的一面上形成公共線14以及掃描線15(第5圖(A))。具體地說,例如藉由濺射法等成膜法,在第1基板11的整個一面上形成鋁膜,進而在其上形成鉬膜。然後,利用乾蝕刻法等圖案化鋁膜以及鉬膜的層疊膜。 Next, the common line 14 and the scanning line 15 are formed on one surface of the first substrate 11 (Fig. 5(A)). Specifically, for example, an aluminum film is formed on the entire surface of the first substrate 11 by a film formation method such as a sputtering method, and a molybdenum film is formed thereon. Then, a laminated film of an aluminum film and a molybdenum film is patterned by dry etching or the like.

接著,在第1基板11的一面側的規定位置處形成第1電極13(第5圖(B))。具體地說,例如藉由濺射法等成膜法,在第1基板11的整個一面上形成氧化銦錫膜(ITO膜)。然後,藉由濕蝕刻法等圖案化該ITO膜。 Next, the first electrode 13 is formed at a predetermined position on one surface side of the first substrate 11 (Fig. 5(B)). Specifically, for example, an indium tin oxide film (ITO film) is formed on the entire surface of the first substrate 11 by a film formation method such as sputtering. Then, the ITO film is patterned by wet etching or the like.

接著,在第1基板11的一面側,以覆蓋第1電極13、公共線14以及掃描線15的方式形成絕緣膜16(第5圖(C))。具體地說,例如藉由濺射法或電漿CVD(Chemical Vapor Deposition:化學氣相沉積)法等成膜法來形成氮化矽膜。 Next, the insulating film 16 is formed on one surface side of the first substrate 11 so as to cover the first electrode 13, the common line 14, and the scanning line 15 (Fig. 5(C)). Specifically, for example, a tantalum nitride film is formed by a film formation method such as a sputtering method or a plasma CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) method.

接著,在第1基板11的絕緣膜16上的規定位置處形成半導體膜17(第5圖(D))。具體地說,例如藉由電漿CVD法等成膜法在第1基板11的整個一面上形成非晶矽膜。然後,利用乾蝕刻法等圖案化該非晶矽膜為島狀。 Next, a semiconductor film 17 is formed at a predetermined position on the insulating film 16 of the first substrate 11 (Fig. 5(D)). Specifically, an amorphous germanium film is formed on the entire surface of the first substrate 11 by a film formation method such as a plasma CVD method. Then, the amorphous germanium film is patterned into an island shape by dry etching or the like.

接著,在第1基板11的絕緣膜16上的規定位置處形成源電極18、汲電極19以及信號線25(第5圖(E))。具體地說,例如藉由濺射法等成膜法,在第1基板11的整個一面上形成鉬膜/鋁膜/鉬膜的層疊膜。然後,藉由乾蝕刻法等圖案化該層疊膜。 Next, the source electrode 18, the ytterbium electrode 19, and the signal line 25 are formed at predetermined positions on the insulating film 16 of the first substrate 11 (Fig. 5(E)). Specifically, for example, a laminated film of a molybdenum film/aluminum film/molybdenum film is formed on the entire surface of the first substrate 11 by a film formation method such as a sputtering method. Then, the laminated film is patterned by dry etching or the like.

接著,在第1基板11的絕緣膜16上的規定位置處形成第2電極20(第 5圖(F))。具體地說,例如藉由濺射法等成膜法在第1基板11的整個一面上形成ITO膜。然後,藉由濕蝕刻法等圖案化該ITO膜。此外,還可以在絕緣膜16上設置鈍化膜(未圖示)。 Next, a second electrode 20 is formed at a predetermined position on the insulating film 16 of the first substrate 11 (No. 5 (F)). Specifically, an ITO film is formed on the entire surface of the first substrate 11 by a film formation method such as sputtering. Then, the ITO film is patterned by wet etching or the like. Further, a passivation film (not shown) may be provided on the insulating film 16.

另一個面,在第2基板12的一面上形成公共電極23(第5圖(G))。具體地說,例如藉由濺射法等成膜法在第2基板12的整個一面上形成ITO膜。此外,在實際的製造步驟中,在基板整面上存在公共電極23時,有可能產生主密封部的短路、因劃線引起的裂片時的膜剝離等,所以較佳在濺射時利用金屬遮蔽物等來遮蔽(限制)外周。 On the other hand, a common electrode 23 is formed on one surface of the second substrate 12 (Fig. 5(G)). Specifically, an ITO film is formed on the entire surface of the second substrate 12 by a film formation method such as sputtering. Further, in the actual manufacturing step, when the common electrode 23 is present on the entire surface of the substrate, there is a possibility of occurrence of a short circuit of the main sealing portion, a film peeling at the time of the delamination due to the scribe line, and the like, and therefore it is preferable to use the metal during sputtering. A shield or the like is used to shield (restrict) the outer circumference.

接著,在第1基板11的絕緣膜16上整體形成第1配向膜21(第6圖(A)),在第2基板12的公共電極23上整體形成第2配向膜22(第6圖(B))。這裏例如,使用降低了被一般用作垂直配向膜的材料之側鏈密度後的聚醯亞胺膜來形成各配向膜。利用可撓性印刷法、噴墨法、旋塗法、縫隙塗佈法、縫隙法和旋塗法的組合等適當的方法,在第1基板11上、第2基板12上分別以適當的膜厚(例如500~800Å左右)塗佈配向膜材料,並進行熱處理(例如以160~180℃,煆燒1小時)。然後,對第1配向膜21、第2配向膜22分別進行配向處理。這裏,例如進行摩擦處理(面磨處理),將作為其條件的押入量設為0.8mm(強摩擦條件)。這裏,將摩擦方向設定為,當第1基板11與第2基板12重合時各基板上的液晶分子的扭轉角大致為90°。 Then, the first alignment film 21 is entirely formed on the insulating film 16 of the first substrate 11 (Fig. 6(A)), and the second alignment film 22 is entirely formed on the common electrode 23 of the second substrate 12 (Fig. 6 (Fig. 6) B)). Here, for example, each of the alignment films is formed using a polyimide film having a side chain density lower than that of a material generally used as a vertical alignment film. An appropriate film is applied to each of the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 by an appropriate method such as a flexible printing method, an inkjet method, a spin coating method, a slit coating method, a slit method, and a spin coating method. The alignment film material is applied to a thickness (for example, about 500 to 800 Å) and heat-treated (for example, at 160 to 180 ° C for 1 hour). Then, the first alignment film 21 and the second alignment film 22 are subjected to alignment treatment. Here, for example, a rubbing treatment (a surface rubbing treatment) is performed, and the amount of pushing as a condition thereof is set to 0.8 mm (strong friction condition). Here, the rubbing direction is set such that the twist angle of the liquid crystal molecules on each of the substrates when the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 are superposed is substantially 90°.

接著,在一個基板(例如第1基板11)上形成含有適量(例如2~5wt%)的間隙控制劑的主密封劑。主密封劑的形成例如是基於絲網印刷或點膠機。另外,關於間隙控制劑的直徑,設液晶層24的厚度為4μm左右。另外,在另一個基板(例如第2基板12)上散佈間隙控制劑。例如在本實施方式中,藉由乾式間隙散佈機來散佈粒徑4μm的塑膠珠。然後,使第1基板11和第2基板12重合,在利用衝壓機等施加一定壓力的狀態下進行熱處理,由此使主密封劑硬化。這裏,例如在150℃下進行3小時的熱處理(第6圖(C))。 Next, a main sealant containing an appropriate amount (for example, 2 to 5 wt%) of a gap control agent is formed on one substrate (for example, the first substrate 11). The formation of the primary sealant is for example based on screen printing or a dispenser. Further, regarding the diameter of the gap control agent, the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 24 is set to about 4 μm. Further, a gap control agent is spread on the other substrate (for example, the second substrate 12). For example, in the present embodiment, a plastic bead having a particle diameter of 4 μm is dispersed by a dry gap spreader. Then, the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 are placed one on top of the other, and the main sealant is cured by heat treatment in a state where a predetermined pressure is applied by a press or the like. Here, for example, heat treatment is performed at 150 ° C for 3 hours (Fig. 6 (C)).

接著,藉由在第1基板11與第2基板12的間隙中填充液晶材料來形成液晶層24(第6圖(D))。例如藉由真空注入法來進行液晶材料的填充。在本實施方式中,採用了介電常數各向異性△ε為正且添加了手性材料的液晶材料。手性材料的添加量較佳設定成d/p為0.04以上0.6以下,例如設定成d/p為0.16。在注入這樣的液晶材料之後,在其注入口塗佈端部密封劑進行 密封。然後,以液晶材料的相移溫度以上的溫度進行適當的熱處理(例如在120℃下進行1小時),由此來調整液晶層24的液晶分子的配向狀態。 Next, the liquid crystal layer 24 is formed by filling a gap between the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 to form a liquid crystal layer (Fig. 6(D)). The filling of the liquid crystal material is performed, for example, by a vacuum injection method. In the present embodiment, a liquid crystal material in which a dielectric anisotropy Δ ε is positive and a chiral material is added is used. The amount of the chiral material to be added is preferably set to d/p of 0.04 or more and 0.6 or less, for example, d/p is set to 0.16. After injecting such a liquid crystal material, an end sealant is applied to the injection port. seal. Then, an appropriate heat treatment (for example, at 120 ° C for 1 hour) is performed at a temperature equal to or higher than the phase shift temperature of the liquid crystal material, whereby the alignment state of the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 24 is adjusted.

接著,在第1基板11的外側黏合第1偏光板31,第2基板12的外側黏合第2偏光板32。這些第1偏光板31與第2偏光板32被配置成彼此的透射軸大致垂直(交叉尼科爾配置)。以上就完成了第1實施方式的反向TN型液晶元件(參照第3圖)。 Next, the first polarizing plate 31 is bonded to the outside of the first substrate 11, and the second polarizing plate 32 is bonded to the outside of the second substrate 12. The first polarizing plate 31 and the second polarizing plate 32 are disposed such that their transmission axes are substantially perpendicular to each other (crossing Nicol arrangement). The reverse TN type liquid crystal element of the first embodiment has been completed as described above (see Fig. 3).

關於經過以上這樣的步驟而完成的反向TN型液晶元件,利用各個電極對液晶層施加電壓,確認了延展扭轉狀態與逆扭轉狀態相互轉變時的狀況,結果如下。 With respect to the reverse TN type liquid crystal element which was completed by the above-described steps, a voltage was applied to the liquid crystal layer by the respective electrodes, and the state at the time of transition between the extended twist state and the reverse twist state was confirmed, and the results were as follows.

本實施方式的反向TN型液晶元件在初始狀態下液晶層24的液晶分子配向為延展扭轉狀態。在該延展扭轉狀態下,外觀上獲得了比較亮的狀態的白顯示(亮顯示)。與此相對,藉由從未圖示的電壓施加單元對第1電極13與公共電極23分別施加電壓來產生縱向電場。例如,施加10V、100Hz的交流電壓(矩形波)約0.01~0.5秒,然後立刻停止電壓的施加。由此,液晶層24的配向狀態轉變為逆扭轉狀態。在該逆扭轉狀態中,外觀上獲得了比較暗的狀態的黑顯示(暗顯示)。作為參考,在第7圖中示出了反向TN型液晶顯示元件的顯示特性的一例。例如,在將該反向TN型液晶元件排列成矩陣狀來構成液晶顯示裝置的情況下,在從該延展扭轉狀態向逆扭轉狀態的轉變時難以針對各個獨立的像素(每個元件)進行控制,所以針對全部像素同時地控制狀態轉變,或者針對共用公共線14的多個第1電極13的每根線控制狀態轉變。 In the reverse TN type liquid crystal element of the present embodiment, the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 24 are aligned in an extended twist state in an initial state. In the extended twist state, a white display (bright display) of a relatively bright state is obtained in appearance. On the other hand, a vertical electric field is generated by applying a voltage to each of the first electrode 13 and the common electrode 23 by a voltage applying means (not shown). For example, an alternating voltage (rectangular wave) of 10 V and 100 Hz is applied for about 0.01 to 0.5 seconds, and then the application of the voltage is stopped immediately. Thereby, the alignment state of the liquid crystal layer 24 is changed to the reverse twist state. In this reverse twist state, a black display (dark display) in a relatively dark state is obtained in appearance. For reference, FIG. 7 shows an example of display characteristics of a reverse TN type liquid crystal display element. For example, when the reverse TN type liquid crystal elements are arranged in a matrix to form a liquid crystal display device, it is difficult to control each individual pixel (each element) at the transition from the extended twist state to the reverse twist state. Therefore, the state transition is controlled simultaneously for all the pixels, or the state transition is controlled for each of the plurality of first electrodes 13 sharing the common line 14.

接著,從電壓施加單元對掃描線15施加規定電壓來使薄膜電晶體成為導通狀態,而且,從電壓施加單元對信號線25施加規定電壓、從而經由薄膜電晶體對第2電極20施加電壓。由此,在第1電極13與第2電極20之間產生相對的電位差,所以對液晶層24施加了橫向電場,液晶層24的配向狀態從逆扭轉狀態向延展扭轉狀態轉變。對掃描線15施加的電壓(閘極電壓)例如是10V的脈衝波,對信號線25施加的電壓例如是按照每一幀(frame)翻轉±10V而得到的電壓。施加橫向電場的時間例如大約是0.01至0.5秒左右。 Then, a predetermined voltage is applied from the voltage application unit to the scanning line 15 to turn on the thin film transistor, and a voltage is applied from the voltage applying unit to the signal line 25 to apply a voltage to the second electrode 20 via the thin film transistor. Thereby, a potential difference is generated between the first electrode 13 and the second electrode 20, so that a transverse electric field is applied to the liquid crystal layer 24, and the alignment state of the liquid crystal layer 24 is changed from the reverse twist state to the extended twist state. The voltage (gate voltage) applied to the scanning line 15 is, for example, a pulse wave of 10 V, and the voltage applied to the signal line 25 is, for example, a voltage obtained by inverting ±10 V for each frame. The time during which the transverse electric field is applied is, for example, about 0.01 to 0.5 seconds.

無論是上述延展扭轉狀態還是逆扭轉狀態,在解除電壓施加之後都能 維持其配向狀態,所以在改寫顯示之後基本不需要施加電壓,能夠將耗電抑制得極低。例如,在將該反向TN型液晶元件排列成矩陣狀來構成液晶顯示裝置時,在希望重複改寫顯示的情況下,針對全部像素同時進行控制,或者針對共用公共線14的多個第1電極13的每根線進行控制來施加縱向電場,接著使用薄膜電晶體來控制對第2電極20的電壓施加/不施加,由此,藉由針對每個像素有選擇地施加橫向電場,能夠進行期望的圖像顯示。關於針對每根線改寫顯示的方式,在閱讀小說等文章的情況下,可以依次改寫已讀完的線,所以,雖然切換需要少許時間,但能夠減輕讀者的壓力。 Whether it is the above-mentioned extended twisting state or reverse twisting state, after releasing the voltage application Since the alignment state is maintained, it is basically unnecessary to apply a voltage after the rewriting display, and the power consumption can be suppressed extremely low. For example, when the reverse TN type liquid crystal elements are arranged in a matrix to form a liquid crystal display device, when it is desired to repeat the rewrite display, all pixels are simultaneously controlled, or a plurality of first electrodes for the common line 14 are shared. Each line of 13 is controlled to apply a longitudinal electric field, and then a thin film transistor is used to control voltage application/non-application to the second electrode 20, whereby desired can be made by selectively applying a transverse electric field for each pixel. The image is displayed. Regarding the method of rewriting the display for each line, in the case of reading an article such as a novel, the read line can be rewritten in order, so that it takes a little time to switch, but the pressure on the reader can be alleviated.

接著,對反向TN型液晶元件的其他結構例進行說明。 Next, another configuration example of the reverse TN type liquid crystal element will be described.

第8圖是示出第2實施方式反向TN型液晶元件的結構例的剖面圖。另外,第9圖是第8圖所示反向TN型液晶元件的俯視圖。此外,第8圖示出第9圖所示VIII-VIII線處的剖面。各圖所示本實施方式的反向TN型液晶元件5包含:第1基板(下側基板)11、第2基板(上側基板)12、第1電極13、公共線14a、掃描線15、絕緣膜16、半導體膜17、源電極18、汲電極19a、第2電極20、第1配向膜21、第2配向膜22、公共電極23、液晶層24、信號線25、絕緣膜26、第1偏光板(下側偏光板)31以及第2偏光板(上側偏光板)32。此外,針對與第1實施方式相同的構成要素使用同一符號,並省略它們的詳細說明。 Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of a reverse TN liquid crystal element of a second embodiment. Further, Fig. 9 is a plan view of the reverse TN type liquid crystal element shown in Fig. 8. Further, Fig. 8 shows a cross section taken along the line VIII-VIII shown in Fig. 9. The reverse TN type liquid crystal element 5 of the present embodiment shown in each figure includes a first substrate (lower substrate) 11, a second substrate (upper substrate) 12, a first electrode 13, a common line 14a, a scanning line 15, and insulation. The film 16, the semiconductor film 17, the source electrode 18, the ytterbium electrode 19a, the second electrode 20, the first alignment film 21, the second alignment film 22, the common electrode 23, the liquid crystal layer 24, the signal line 25, the insulating film 26, and the first A polarizing plate (lower polarizing plate) 31 and a second polarizing plate (upper polarizing plate) 32. The same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

在第1基板11的一面側的絕緣膜26上設置有公共線14a,該公共線14a在一個方向(第8圖所示的Y方向)上延伸。公共線14a如第9圖所示與第2電極20連接,並經由公共線14a,從未圖示的電壓供給單元對第2電極20施加規定的電位。 A common line 14a is provided on the insulating film 26 on one surface side of the first substrate 11, and the common line 14a extends in one direction (Y direction shown in Fig. 8). The common line 14a is connected to the second electrode 20 as shown in FIG. 9, and a predetermined potential is applied to the second electrode 20 via a common line 14a from a voltage supply unit (not shown).

在絕緣膜16上的規定位置處設置有汲電極19a,而且其一部分貫通絕緣膜16而與第1電極13連接。作為汲電極19a,例如可採用鋁和鉬的層疊膜等金屬膜。 A tantalum electrode 19a is provided at a predetermined position on the insulating film 16, and a part thereof passes through the insulating film 16 and is connected to the first electrode 13. As the tantalum electrode 19a, for example, a metal film such as a laminated film of aluminum and molybdenum can be used.

在第1基板11的一面側的絕緣膜16上,以覆蓋半導體膜17、源電極18以及汲電極19a的方式設置了絕緣膜26。作為絕緣膜26,例如可採用氮化矽膜、氧化矽膜或者它們的層疊膜。 An insulating film 26 is provided on the insulating film 16 on one surface side of the first substrate 11 so as to cover the semiconductor film 17, the source electrode 18, and the drain electrode 19a. As the insulating film 26, for example, a tantalum nitride film, a hafnium oxide film, or a laminated film thereof can be used.

在絕緣膜26上,第2電極20被設置在其至少一部分與上述第1電極13重疊的規定位置處。該第2電極20如第9圖所示與公共線14a連接。在 本例中,第2電極20和公共線14形成為一體。例如藉由圖案化氧化銦錫(ITO)等透明導電膜來獲得第2電極20。可藉由在第2電極20與第1電極13之間施加電壓,來對液晶層24施加橫向電場。 In the insulating film 26, the second electrode 20 is provided at a predetermined position at least a part of which overlaps the first electrode 13. The second electrode 20 is connected to the common line 14a as shown in Fig. 9. in In this example, the second electrode 20 and the common line 14 are formed integrally. The second electrode 20 is obtained, for example, by patterning a transparent conductive film such as indium tin oxide (ITO). A transverse electric field can be applied to the liquid crystal layer 24 by applying a voltage between the second electrode 20 and the first electrode 13.

在第1基板11的一面側的絕緣膜26上,以覆蓋公共線14a以及第2電極20的方式設置了第1配向膜21。 The first alignment film 21 is provided on the insulating film 26 on one surface side of the first substrate 11 so as to cover the common line 14a and the second electrode 20.

接著,參照第10圖、第11圖說明第2實施方式反向TN型液晶元件的製造方法的一例。此外,對於與第1實施方式相同的內容,適當省略說明。 Next, an example of a method of manufacturing the reverse TN liquid crystal element of the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11. In addition, the description of the same content as that of the first embodiment will be appropriately omitted.

在第1基板11的一面上形成由規定的金屬膜構成的掃描線15(第10圖(A))。接著,在第1基板11一面側的規定位置處形成由ITO膜等構成的第1電極13(第10圖(B))。接著,在第1基板11的一面側,以覆蓋第1電極13以及掃描線15的方式形成絕緣膜16(第10圖(C))。 A scanning line 15 made of a predetermined metal film is formed on one surface of the first substrate 11 (Fig. 10(A)). Next, a first electrode 13 made of an ITO film or the like is formed at a predetermined position on one surface side of the first substrate 11 (Fig. 10(B)). Next, the insulating film 16 is formed on one surface side of the first substrate 11 so as to cover the first electrode 13 and the scanning line 15 (Fig. 10(C)).

接著,在第1基板11的絕緣膜16上的規定位置處形成半導體膜17(第10圖(D)),進而形成源電極18、汲電極19a以及信號線25(第10圖(E))。關於汲電極19a,預先在絕緣膜16的規定位置處設置了使第1電極13的一部分露出的開口部,然後利用濺射法等進行金屬膜的成膜和圖案化,由此能夠形成汲電極19a。 Next, the semiconductor film 17 is formed at a predetermined position on the insulating film 16 of the first substrate 11 (Fig. 10(D)), and the source electrode 18, the germanium electrode 19a, and the signal line 25 are formed (Fig. 10(E)). . In the ytterbium electrode 19a, an opening for exposing a part of the first electrode 13 is provided at a predetermined position of the insulating film 16, and then a metal film is formed and patterned by a sputtering method or the like, whereby a ruthenium electrode can be formed. 19a.

接著,在第1基板11的絕緣膜16上形成覆蓋半導體膜17、源電極18、汲電極19a以及信號線25的絕緣膜26(第10圖(F))。接著,在第1基板11的絕緣膜26上的規定位置處形成公共線14a以及第2電極20(第10圖(G))。此外,還可以在絕緣膜26上設置鈍化膜(未圖示)。另一個面,在第2基板12的一面上形成公共電極23(第11圖(A))。 Next, an insulating film 26 covering the semiconductor film 17, the source electrode 18, the germanium electrode 19a, and the signal line 25 is formed on the insulating film 16 of the first substrate 11 (Fig. 10(F)). Next, the common line 14a and the second electrode 20 are formed at predetermined positions on the insulating film 26 of the first substrate 11 (Fig. 10(G)). Further, a passivation film (not shown) may be provided on the insulating film 26. On the other hand, a common electrode 23 is formed on one surface of the second substrate 12 (Fig. 11(A)).

接著,在第1基板11的絕緣膜16上全部形成第1配向膜21(第11圖(B)),在第2基板12的公共電極23上全部形成第2配向膜22(第11圖(C))。 Then, the first alignment film 21 is formed on the insulating film 16 of the first substrate 11 (Fig. 11(B)), and the second alignment film 22 is formed on the common electrode 23 of the second substrate 12 (Fig. 11 (Fig. 11 ( C)).

接著,在一個基板上形成主密封劑,在另一個基板上散佈間隙控制劑,然後使第1基板11與第2基板12重合,在利用衝壓機等施加一定壓力的狀態下進行熱處理,由此使主密封劑硬化(第11圖(D))。接著,藉由在第1基板11與第2基板12的間隙中填充液晶材料來形成液晶層24(第11圖(E))。 Then, a main sealant is formed on one substrate, a gap control agent is spread on the other substrate, and the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 are superposed on each other, and heat treatment is performed in a state where a constant pressure is applied by a press or the like. The main sealant is hardened (Fig. 11(D)). Next, the liquid crystal layer 24 is formed by filling a gap between the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 to form a liquid crystal layer (Fig. 11(E)).

然後,在第1基板11的外側黏合第1偏光板31,在第2基板12的外側黏合第2偏光板32。這些第1偏光板31與第2偏光板32被配置成彼此的透射軸大致垂直(交叉尼科爾配置)。以上就完成了第2實施方式的反向 TN型液晶元件(參照第8圖)。 Then, the first polarizing plate 31 is bonded to the outside of the first substrate 11, and the second polarizing plate 32 is bonded to the outside of the second substrate 12. The first polarizing plate 31 and the second polarizing plate 32 are disposed such that their transmission axes are substantially perpendicular to each other (crossing Nicol arrangement). The above reverses the second embodiment. TN type liquid crystal element (refer to Fig. 8).

關於經過以上這樣的步驟而完成的反向TN型液晶元件,利用各個電極對液晶層施加電壓,確認了延展扭轉狀態與逆扭轉狀態相互轉變時的狀況,結果如下。 With respect to the reverse TN type liquid crystal element which was completed by the above-described steps, a voltage was applied to the liquid crystal layer by the respective electrodes, and the state at the time of transition between the extended twist state and the reverse twist state was confirmed, and the results were as follows.

本實施方式的反向TN型液晶元件在初始狀態下液晶層24的液晶分子配向為延展扭轉狀態。在該延展扭轉狀態中,外觀上獲得了比較亮的狀態的白顯示(亮顯示)。與此相對,如上所述使用第1電極13與公共電極23來產生縱向電場。例如,施加10V、100Hz的交流電壓(矩形波)約0.01~0.5秒,然後立刻停止電壓的施加。由此,液晶層24的配向狀態轉變為逆扭轉狀態。在該逆扭轉狀態中,外觀上獲得了比較暗的狀態的黑顯示(暗顯示)。例如,在將該反向TN型液晶元件排列成矩陣狀來構成液晶顯示裝置的情況下,在從該延展扭轉狀態向逆扭轉狀態的轉變時,可針對每個獨立的像素(每個元件)進行控制。此時要求第1電極13處於在電氣上自由的狀態。 In the reverse TN type liquid crystal element of the present embodiment, the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 24 are aligned in an extended twist state in an initial state. In the extended twist state, a white display (bright display) in which a relatively bright state is obtained in appearance is obtained. On the other hand, the longitudinal electric field is generated using the first electrode 13 and the common electrode 23 as described above. For example, an alternating voltage (rectangular wave) of 10 V and 100 Hz is applied for about 0.01 to 0.5 seconds, and then the application of the voltage is stopped immediately. Thereby, the alignment state of the liquid crystal layer 24 is changed to the reverse twist state. In this reverse twist state, a black display (dark display) in a relatively dark state is obtained in appearance. For example, when the reverse TN type liquid crystal elements are arranged in a matrix to form a liquid crystal display device, for each transition from the extended twist state to the reverse twist state, for each individual pixel (each element) Take control. At this time, the first electrode 13 is required to be in an electrically free state.

接著,從電壓施加單元向掃描線15施加規定電壓來使薄膜電晶體成為導通狀態,而且,從電壓施加單元對信號線25施加規定電壓來對第2電極20施加電壓。由此,在第1電極13與第2電極20之間產生相對的電位差,所以對液晶層24施加了橫向電場,液晶層24的配向狀態從逆扭轉狀態轉變為延展扭轉狀態。對掃描線15施加的電壓(閘電壓)例如為10V的脈衝波,對信號線25施加的電壓例如為按照每一幀翻轉±10V而得到的電壓。施加橫向電場的時間例如是0.01~0.5秒左右。 Then, a predetermined voltage is applied from the voltage application unit to the scanning line 15 to turn on the thin film transistor, and a predetermined voltage is applied from the voltage applying unit to the signal line 25 to apply a voltage to the second electrode 20. Thereby, a potential difference is generated between the first electrode 13 and the second electrode 20. Therefore, a transverse electric field is applied to the liquid crystal layer 24, and the alignment state of the liquid crystal layer 24 is changed from the reverse twist state to the extended twist state. The voltage (gate voltage) applied to the scanning line 15 is, for example, a pulse wave of 10 V, and the voltage applied to the signal line 25 is, for example, a voltage obtained by inverting ±10 V for each frame. The time for applying the transverse electric field is, for example, about 0.01 to 0.5 seconds.

無論是上述延展扭轉狀態還是逆扭轉狀態,在解除電壓施加之後都能維持其配向狀態,所以在改寫顯示之後完全不需要施加電壓,能夠將耗電抑制得極低。例如,在將該反向TN型液晶元件排列成矩陣狀來構成液晶顯示裝置時,在本實施方式中,從延展扭轉狀態向逆扭轉狀態的轉變、以及從逆扭轉狀態向延展扭轉狀態的轉變都可以針對每個像素進行控制。因此,與第1實施方式相比,顯示改寫的自由度更高。例如,在當前已提出的電泳方式的電子紙顯示器中,都需要暫時將整個畫面重定成白顯示或黑顯示,如果不這樣做,有時無法使全部的電泳粒子移動至期望的位置,而且當反復地進行顯示切換時,電泳粒子會發生轉向,但根據本實施方式,不會產生這樣的問題。 In the above-described extended twisting state or reverse twisting state, the alignment state can be maintained after the voltage application is released. Therefore, it is not necessary to apply a voltage after the rewriting display, and the power consumption can be suppressed extremely low. For example, when the reverse TN type liquid crystal elements are arranged in a matrix to form a liquid crystal display device, in the present embodiment, the transition from the extended twist state to the reverse twist state and the transition from the reverse twist state to the extended twist state Both can be controlled for each pixel. Therefore, compared with the first embodiment, the degree of freedom in display rewriting is higher. For example, in the currently proposed electrophoretic electronic paper display, it is necessary to temporarily reset the entire screen to a white display or a black display. If not, sometimes it is impossible to move all the electrophoretic particles to a desired position, and when When the display switching is repeated, the electrophoretic particles are turned, but according to the present embodiment, such a problem does not occur.

接著,對反向TN型液晶元件的其他結構例進行說明。 Next, another configuration example of the reverse TN type liquid crystal element will be described.

第12圖是示意性示出第3實施方式反向TN型液晶元件的結構例的剖面圖。第12圖(A)所示第3實施方式的反向TN型液晶元件是利用來自外部的光進行顯示的反射型液晶元件,具備:液晶面板50、配置在液晶面板50的下表面側的反射板51、配置在液晶面板50的上表面側的散射板52、與散射板52重疊配置的λ/4波長板53、以及與λ/4波長板53重疊配置的偏光板54。作為反射板51,例如可採用銀膜。另外,作為散射板52例如,可採用由多片霧度值為43%~45%的板層疊而成的散射板。另外,作為λ/4波長板53,例如可採用相位差為約137nm的板。此外,散射板52也可配置在液晶面板50的下表面側。在此情況下,在反射板51與液晶面板50彼此之間配置有散射板52。 Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a configuration example of a reverse TN liquid crystal element of a third embodiment. The reverse TN liquid crystal element of the third embodiment shown in FIG. 12A is a reflection type liquid crystal element that displays light from the outside, and includes a liquid crystal panel 50 and a reflection disposed on the lower surface side of the liquid crystal panel 50. The plate 51, the scattering plate 52 disposed on the upper surface side of the liquid crystal panel 50, the λ/4 wavelength plate 53 disposed to overlap the scattering plate 52, and the polarizing plate 54 disposed to overlap the λ/4 wavelength plate 53. As the reflecting plate 51, for example, a silver film can be used. Further, as the scattering plate 52, for example, a scattering plate in which a plurality of sheets having a haze value of 43% to 45% is laminated may be employed. Further, as the λ/4 wavelength plate 53, for example, a plate having a phase difference of about 137 nm can be used. Further, the diffusion plate 52 may be disposed on the lower surface side of the liquid crystal panel 50. In this case, the scattering plate 52 is disposed between the reflecting plate 51 and the liquid crystal panel 50.

如第12圖(B)所示,液晶面板50中的下側基板的摩擦方向RL、上側基板的摩擦方向RU所成的角度例如可設定為70°(反射型的理想值的一例)。在液晶層的液晶材料中以例如d/p=0.143的方式添加了手性材料。液晶層的液晶材料的△n的值例如是0.065~0.15左右。偏光板54的透射軸P被設定為與上側基板的摩擦方向RU平行,λ/4波長板53的相位差軸P’被設定為與偏光板54的透射軸大致成45°的角度。液晶面板50的內部構造與上述第1實施方式或第2實施方式的液晶元件相同(都去除了偏光板)。 As shown in FIG. 12(B), the angle formed by the rubbing direction RL of the lower substrate and the rubbing direction RU of the upper substrate in the liquid crystal panel 50 can be set, for example, to 70° (an example of an ideal value of a reflective type). A chiral material is added to the liquid crystal material of the liquid crystal layer in a manner such as d/p = 0.143. The value of Δn of the liquid crystal material of the liquid crystal layer is, for example, about 0.065 to 0.15. The transmission axis P of the polarizing plate 54 is set to be parallel to the rubbing direction RU of the upper substrate, and the phase difference axis P' of the λ/4 wavelength plate 53 is set to an angle of substantially 45 with the transmission axis of the polarizing plate 54. The internal structure of the liquid crystal panel 50 is the same as that of the liquid crystal element of the first embodiment or the second embodiment described above (both polarizing plates are removed).

第13圖是示出第3實施方式反向TN型液晶元件的結構例的剖面圖。這裏作為一例,圖示了採用第1實施方式的液晶元件作為液晶面板50的情況,但採用第2實施方式的液晶元件的情況也是同樣的。液晶面板50的第1電極13b由金屬膜構成,而且在表面設置有凹凸。由此,第1電極13b還能兼任反射板51以及散射板52的功能。第3實施方式的反向TN型液晶元件的製造方法與上述第1實施方式或第2實施方式相同,例如,當使第1電極13b的形成步驟成為與掃描線15的形成步驟共同的步驟時,除此以外的步驟也可以採用共同的步驟。此外,第1電極13b僅兼任反射板51的功能,而關於散射板52,如上所述可附於外部。 Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of a reverse TN liquid crystal element of a third embodiment. Here, as an example, the liquid crystal element of the first embodiment is used as the liquid crystal panel 50. However, the same applies to the case of the liquid crystal element of the second embodiment. The first electrode 13b of the liquid crystal panel 50 is made of a metal film, and has irregularities on its surface. Thereby, the first electrode 13b can also function as the reflection plate 51 and the diffusion plate 52. The manufacturing method of the reverse TN liquid crystal element of the third embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment or the second embodiment. For example, when the step of forming the first electrode 13b is a step common to the step of forming the scanning line 15, Steps other than this may also take the same steps. Further, the first electrode 13b functions only as the reflector 51, and the scattering plate 52 can be attached to the outside as described above.

第14圖是示出第3實施方式反向TN型液晶元件的反射率特性的一例的圖。在該圖中,將液晶層的扭轉角設定為70°,從相對於液晶元件的基板面法線成30°的方向入射光,示出了從法線方向測定反射率時的△n依存性 的反射率特性。在此情況下可知,當液晶材料的△n是0.08時,反射率以及對比度比特別良好。此外,雖然這裏將λ/4波長板53的相位差軸設定為與液晶層的層厚方向之大致中央的液晶分子的長軸方向垂直,並將偏光板54的透射軸設定為與上側基板的摩擦方向平行,但各個設定不限於此。藉由構成為反射型,不需要背光源,特別能夠抑制耗電。 Fig. 14 is a view showing an example of reflectance characteristics of the reverse TN liquid crystal element of the third embodiment. In the figure, the twist angle of the liquid crystal layer is set to 70°, and light is incident from a direction of 30° with respect to the normal to the substrate surface of the liquid crystal element, and Δn dependency when the reflectance is measured from the normal direction is shown. Reflectivity characteristics. In this case, it is understood that when the Δn of the liquid crystal material is 0.08, the reflectance and the contrast ratio are particularly good. Further, the phase difference axis of the λ/4 wavelength plate 53 is set to be perpendicular to the long axis direction of the liquid crystal molecules substantially at the center of the layer thickness direction of the liquid crystal layer, and the transmission axis of the polarizing plate 54 is set to be the upper substrate. The rubbing directions are parallel, but the respective settings are not limited to this. By configuring the reflection type, a backlight is not required, and power consumption can be particularly suppressed.

接著,作為第4實施方式,說明能夠利用上述第1實施方式至第3實施方式中任意一個液晶元件所具有之儲存性來實現低耗電驅動的液晶顯示裝置的結構例。 Next, a configuration example of a liquid crystal display device capable of achieving low power consumption by the storage property of any one of the liquid crystal elements of the first to third embodiments described above will be described as a fourth embodiment.

第15圖是示意性示出第4實施方式液晶顯示裝置的結構例的圖。第15圖所示的液晶顯示裝置是矩陣狀地排列多個像素部100而構成的主動式矩陣型的液晶顯示裝置,作為各像素部100,可採用上述任意一個實施方式中的液晶元件。具體地說,液晶顯示裝置構成為包含:在第1方向上延伸的多個掃描線101、對各掃描線101提供電壓的驅動器104、分別與掃描線101垂直而在第2方向上延伸的多個信號線102和公共線103、對各信號線102提供電壓的驅動器105、對各公共線103提供電壓的驅動器106、以及設置在各掃描線101與各信號線102的交點處的像素部100。各像素部100的第1電極和第2電極中的一個與公共線103連接,另一個與薄膜電晶體連接。另外,在各像素部100上公共地設置了公共電極。 Fig. 15 is a view schematically showing a configuration example of a liquid crystal display device of a fourth embodiment. The liquid crystal display device shown in FIG. 15 is an active matrix liquid crystal display device in which a plurality of pixel portions 100 are arranged in a matrix, and as the respective pixel portions 100, the liquid crystal element according to any of the above embodiments can be used. Specifically, the liquid crystal display device includes a plurality of scanning lines 101 extending in the first direction, a driver 104 that supplies a voltage to each scanning line 101, and a plurality of scanning lines 101 that are perpendicular to the scanning line 101 and extend in the second direction. a signal line 102 and a common line 103, a driver 105 that supplies a voltage to each of the signal lines 102, a driver 106 that supplies a voltage to each common line 103, and a pixel portion 100 that is disposed at an intersection of each of the scanning lines 101 and each of the signal lines 102 . One of the first electrode and the second electrode of each pixel portion 100 is connected to the common line 103, and the other is connected to the thin film transistor. Further, a common electrode is commonly provided on each of the pixel portions 100.

根據以上這樣的各實施方式,能夠獲得具有適合產生兩種配向狀態間的轉變的開關元件以及電極的構造的新穎的液晶元件。另外,藉由利用液晶元件的兩種配向狀態的雙穩定性(儲存性),能夠獲得除了顯示改寫時以外基本不需要電力的低耗電的液晶顯示裝置。 According to each of the above embodiments, a novel liquid crystal element having a structure suitable for generating a switching element and an electrode between transitions of two alignment states can be obtained. Further, by utilizing the bistable (storability) of the two alignment states of the liquid crystal element, it is possible to obtain a low-power liquid crystal display device which does not require electric power except for display rewriting.

此外,本發明不被上述內容所限定,可以在本發明的主旨範圍內進行各種變化而予以實施。 Further, the present invention is not limited to the above, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

例如,在上述各實施方式中,雖然將液晶層的扭轉角設為70°(反射型)或90°(透射型),但扭轉角不限於此。在此情況下,為了進一步確保白顯示中的亮度,可調整液晶層內的延遲值。 For example, in each of the above embodiments, the twist angle of the liquid crystal layer is 70° (reflective type) or 90° (transmissive type), but the twist angle is not limited to this. In this case, in order to further ensure the brightness in the white display, the retardation value in the liquid crystal layer can be adjusted.

另外,以上例示了第1偏光板和第2偏光板各自的透射軸所成的角度為90°左右的正常顯白(normally white)狀態的液晶元件,但也可以是正常顯黑(normally black)狀態的液晶元件。另外,配向處理方法不限於摩擦法。 In the above, the liquid crystal element of the normally white state in which the angle formed by the transmission axis of each of the first polarizing plate and the second polarizing plate is about 90° is exemplified above, but it may be normally black. State of the liquid crystal element. In addition, the alignment processing method is not limited to the rubbing method.

另外,作為開關元件一例的薄膜電晶體的構造不限於例示的底部閘極型,也可以是頂部閘極型。 Further, the structure of the thin film transistor as an example of the switching element is not limited to the illustrated bottom gate type, and may be a top gate type.

另外,第2電極不限於具有上述這樣的多個縫隙,例如可以是具有多個電極支(直線部)的梳齒狀電極。此外,可以將第1電極也設為梳齒狀電極,並互不相同地配置第2電極的各電極支和第1電極的各電極支。在此情況下,可以將第1電極和第2電極配置在同一面上。 Further, the second electrode is not limited to the plurality of slits as described above, and may be, for example, a comb-shaped electrode having a plurality of electrode branches (straight portions). Further, the first electrode may be a comb-shaped electrode, and each electrode branch of the second electrode and each electrode branch of the first electrode may be disposed differently from each other. In this case, the first electrode and the second electrode may be disposed on the same surface.

1‧‧‧上側基板 1‧‧‧Upper substrate

2‧‧‧下側基板 2‧‧‧lower substrate

3‧‧‧液晶層 3‧‧‧Liquid layer

11‧‧‧第1基板(下側基板) 11‧‧‧1st substrate (lower substrate)

12‧‧‧第2基板(上側基板) 12‧‧‧2nd substrate (upper substrate)

13、13b‧‧‧第1電極 13, 13b‧‧‧ first electrode

14、14a‧‧‧公共線 14, 14a‧‧‧ public line

15‧‧‧掃描線 15‧‧‧ scan line

16‧‧‧絕緣膜 16‧‧‧Insulation film

17‧‧‧半導體膜 17‧‧‧Semiconductor film

18‧‧‧源電極 18‧‧‧ source electrode

19、19a‧‧‧汲電極 19, 19a‧‧‧汲 electrode

20‧‧‧第2電極 20‧‧‧2nd electrode

21‧‧‧第1配向膜 21‧‧‧1st alignment film

22‧‧‧第2配向膜 22‧‧‧2nd alignment film

23‧‧‧公共電極 23‧‧‧Common electrode

24‧‧‧液晶層 24‧‧‧Liquid layer

25‧‧‧信號線 25‧‧‧ signal line

26‧‧‧絕緣膜 26‧‧‧Insulation film

31‧‧‧第1偏光板(下側偏光板) 31‧‧‧1st polarizing plate (lower polarizing plate)

32‧‧‧第2偏光板(上側偏光板) 32‧‧‧2nd polarizer (upper polarizer)

50‧‧‧液晶面板 50‧‧‧LCD panel

51‧‧‧反射板 51‧‧‧reflector

52‧‧‧散射板 52‧‧‧scatter plate

53‧‧‧λ/4波長板 53‧‧‧λ/4 wavelength plate

54‧‧‧偏光板 54‧‧‧Polar plate

100‧‧‧像素部 100‧‧‧Pixel Department

101‧‧‧掃描線 101‧‧‧ scan line

102‧‧‧信號線 102‧‧‧ signal line

103‧‧‧公共線 103‧‧‧ public line

104、105、106‧‧‧驅動器 104, 105, 106‧‧‧ drive

第1圖是概略地示出反向TN型液晶元件的原理的示意圖;第2圖是用於說明從逆扭轉狀態向延展扭轉(Spray Twist展曲、扭曲)狀態轉變時的液晶層的配向狀態與電場方向的關係的概念圖;第3圖是示出第1實施方式反向TN型液晶元件的結構例的剖面圖;第4圖是第3圖所示反向TN型液晶元件的俯視圖;第5圖是示出第1實施方式反向TN型液晶元件的製造方法的剖面圖;第6圖是示出第1實施方式反向TN型液晶元件的製造方法的剖面圖;第7圖是示出反向TN型液晶顯示元件的顯示特性的一例的圖;第8圖是示出第2實施方式反向TN型液晶元件的結構例的剖面圖;第9圖是第8圖所示反向TN型液晶元件的俯視圖;第10圖是示出第2實施方式反向TN型液晶元件的製造方法的剖面圖;第11圖是示出第2實施方式反向TN型液晶元件的製造方法的剖面圖;第12圖是示意性示出第3實施方式反向TN型液晶元件的結構例的剖面圖;第13圖是示出第3實施方式反向TN型液晶元件的結構例的剖面圖;第14圖是示出第3實施方式反向TN型液晶元件的反射率特性的一例的圖;以及第15圖是示意性示出第4實施方式液晶顯示裝置的結構例的圖。 Fig. 1 is a schematic view schematically showing the principle of a reverse TN type liquid crystal element; Fig. 2 is a view for explaining an alignment state of a liquid crystal layer when transitioning from a reverse twist state to a stretch twist (Spray Twist splay, twist) state; FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of a reverse TN type liquid crystal element according to the first embodiment; and FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a reverse TN type liquid crystal element shown in FIG. 3; Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a method of manufacturing the reverse TN liquid crystal element according to the first embodiment, and Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a method of manufacturing the reverse TN type liquid crystal element according to the first embodiment; FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of a reverse TN liquid crystal element according to a second embodiment, and FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a reverse TN type liquid crystal element according to a second embodiment; FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a method of manufacturing a reverse TN liquid crystal element according to a second embodiment, and FIG. 11 is a view showing a method of manufacturing a reverse TN type liquid crystal element according to a second embodiment; FIG. 12 is a schematic view showing a reverse TN type liquid of the third embodiment FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of a reverse TN type liquid crystal element according to a third embodiment, and FIG. 14 is a view showing a reflectance of a reverse TN type liquid crystal element according to a third embodiment. FIG. 15 is a view schematically showing an example of the configuration of a liquid crystal display device of a fourth embodiment.

11‧‧‧第1基板(下側基板) 11‧‧‧1st substrate (lower substrate)

12‧‧‧第2基板(上側基板) 12‧‧‧2nd substrate (upper substrate)

13‧‧‧第1電極 13‧‧‧1st electrode

14‧‧‧公共線 14‧‧‧ public line

15‧‧‧掃描線 15‧‧‧ scan line

16‧‧‧絕緣膜 16‧‧‧Insulation film

17‧‧‧半導體膜 17‧‧‧Semiconductor film

18‧‧‧源電極 18‧‧‧ source electrode

19‧‧‧汲電極 19‧‧‧汲 electrode

20‧‧‧第2電極 20‧‧‧2nd electrode

21‧‧‧第1配向膜 21‧‧‧1st alignment film

22‧‧‧第2配向膜 22‧‧‧2nd alignment film

23‧‧‧公共電極 23‧‧‧Common electrode

24‧‧‧液晶層 24‧‧‧Liquid layer

31‧‧‧第1偏光板(下側偏光板) 31‧‧‧1st polarizing plate (lower polarizing plate)

32‧‧‧第2偏光板(上側偏光板) 32‧‧‧2nd polarizer (upper polarizer)

Claims (6)

一種液晶元件,包含:相對配置的第1基板以及第2基板,其各自的一面實施配向處理;第1電極,其設置在該第1基板的一面側;第2電極,其與該第1電極相離地設置在該第1基板的一面側;開關元件,其設置在該第1基板的一面側,與該第1電極或該第2電極連接;公共電極,其以至少一部分與該第1電極以及該第2電極重疊的方式設置在該第2基板的一面側;以及液晶層,其設置在該第1基板的一面與該第2基板的一面之間,其中該第1基板以及該第2基板的該配向處理的方向被設定為產生第1配向狀態,該第1配向狀態是該液晶層的液晶分子朝向第1方向扭轉,該液晶層含有產生第2配向狀態的性質的手性材料,該第2配向狀態是該液晶分子朝向與該第1方向相反的第2方向扭轉,藉由對該第2電極與該公共電極之間施加電壓,使得該液晶層從該第2配向狀態向該第1配向狀態轉變,藉由對該第1電極與該第2電極之間施加電壓,使得該液晶層從該第1配向狀態向該第2配向狀態轉變。 A liquid crystal element comprising: a first substrate and a second substrate disposed opposite to each other, wherein one surface of each of the first substrate and the second substrate is disposed; the first electrode is disposed on one surface side of the first substrate; and the second electrode is coupled to the first electrode Separatingly disposed on one surface side of the first substrate; the switching element is disposed on one surface side of the first substrate, and is connected to the first electrode or the second electrode; and the common electrode is at least partially and the first electrode The electrode and the second electrode are disposed on one surface side of the second substrate; and the liquid crystal layer is disposed between one surface of the first substrate and one surface of the second substrate, wherein the first substrate and the first substrate The direction of the alignment treatment of the substrate is set to a first alignment state in which the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer are twisted in the first direction, and the liquid crystal layer contains a chiral material having a property of generating a second alignment state. The second alignment state is that the liquid crystal molecules are twisted in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and a voltage is applied between the second electrode and the common electrode to cause the liquid crystal layer to move from the second alignment state to the second alignment state. The first alignment Transformation, by applying a voltage to between the first electrode and the second electrode, such that the liquid crystal layer is converted from the first state to the second alignment alignment state. 如申請專利範圍第1項所述的液晶元件,其中,該第1電極與該第2電極中的至少一個具有相互分離地平行配置的多個直線部。 The liquid crystal element according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the first electrode and the second electrode has a plurality of straight portions that are disposed in parallel with each other. 如申請專利範圍第1項或第2項所述的液晶元件,其中,該第1電極與該第2電極隔著絕緣膜而層疊。 The liquid crystal element according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first electrode and the second electrode are laminated via an insulating film. 如申請專利範圍第1至第3項中任一項所述的液晶元件,其中,該第1基板和該第2基板係在各自與該液晶層的介面中對該液晶層的液晶分子賦予20°以上的預傾角。 The liquid crystal element according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the first substrate and the second substrate are provided with a liquid crystal molecule of the liquid crystal layer in an interface between the first substrate and the second liquid crystal layer. Pretilt angle above ° °. 如申請專利範圍第1至第4項中任一項所述的液晶元件,其中,以使該液晶層的層厚d與手性間距之比d/p為0.04以上0.6以下的方式,添加了該手性材料。 The liquid crystal element according to any one of the first to fourth aspects of the present invention, wherein the liquid crystal layer has a ratio d/p of a layer thickness d to a chiral pitch of 0.04 or more and 0.6 or less. The chiral material. 一種液晶顯示裝置,該液晶顯示裝置具備多個像素部, 該等像素部分別是以申請專利範圍第1項至第5項中任一項所述的液晶元件來構成。 A liquid crystal display device including a plurality of pixel portions Each of the pixel portions is configured by the liquid crystal element according to any one of the first to fifth aspects of the invention.
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