U.S. patent application number 16/372120 was filed with the patent office on 2019-07-25 for curved display device.
The applicant listed for this patent is Samsung Display Co., Ltd.. Invention is credited to Yongwoo HYUNG, Wan-Soon IM, Heehwan LEE, Kee-Bum PARK, Younggoo SONG, SuWan WOO.
Application Number | 20190227372 16/372120 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50070291 |
Filed Date | 2019-07-25 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190227372 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
WOO; SuWan ; et al. |
July 25, 2019 |
CURVED DISPLAY DEVICE
Abstract
A curved display device curved in a first direction includes: a
first substrate including a plurality of signal lines, an
insulating layer which covers the signal lines, a pixel electrode
disposed on the insulating layer, and a shielding electrode
electrically insulated from the pixel electrode and disposed along
a signal line, which extends substantially in a second direction
crossing the first direction, among the signal lines; a second
substrate disposed opposite to the first substrate and including a
common electrode; and a light control layer interposed between the
first substrate and the second substrate.
Inventors: |
WOO; SuWan; (Osan-si,
KR) ; IM; Wan-Soon; (Cheonan-si, KR) ; PARK;
Kee-Bum; (Cheonan-si, KR) ; SONG; Younggoo;
(Asan-si, KR) ; LEE; Heehwan; (Seoul, KR) ;
HYUNG; Yongwoo; (Hwaseong-si, KR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Samsung Display Co., Ltd. |
Yongin-Si |
|
KR |
|
|
Family ID: |
50070291 |
Appl. No.: |
16/372120 |
Filed: |
April 1, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15685352 |
Aug 24, 2017 |
10295858 |
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16372120 |
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14138256 |
Dec 23, 2013 |
9791750 |
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15685352 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G02F 1/136286 20130101;
G02F 2001/133757 20130101; G02F 1/133305 20130101; G02F 2001/136218
20130101; G02F 1/136209 20130101; G02F 1/133512 20130101; G02F
1/13439 20130101; G02F 1/133707 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G02F 1/1335 20060101
G02F001/1335; G02F 1/1362 20060101 G02F001/1362; G02F 1/1343
20060101 G02F001/1343; G02F 1/1333 20060101 G02F001/1333; G02F
1/1337 20060101 G02F001/1337 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jul 29, 2013 |
KR |
10-2013-0089566 |
Claims
1. A display device comprises a curved first substrate, a curved
second substrate, and a light control layer interposed between the
curved first substrate and the curved second substrate, wherein the
first substrate comprises: a first base substrate; a plurality of
signal lines disposed on the first base substrate; an insulating
layer disposed on the plurality of signal lines, the insulating
layer comprises a plurality of color filters; a pixel electrode
disposed on the insulating layer; and a shielding electrode
disposed on the insulating layer and electrically insulated from
the pixel electrode, the shielding electrode overlaps a boundary
portion of two adjacent color filters of the plurality of color
filters, wherein the plurality of signal lines comprise: a
plurality of gate lines extending in a first direction; and a
plurality of data lines extending in a second direction
intersecting the first direction, wherein the second substrate
comprises: a second base substrate; a common electrode disposed
under the second base substrate; and a black matrix extending only
in the first direction, and wherein the shielding electrode extends
in the second direction and overlaps two adjacent data lines of the
plurality of data lines, the pixel electrode is provided as a
plurality of pixel electrodes, the shielding electrode is disposed
between two horizontally adjacent pixel electrodes, and each of the
plurality of pixel electrodes comprises a first sub-pixel electrode
and a second su b-pixel electrode, and the plurality of gate lines
includes a gate line disposed between two vertically adjacent pixel
electrodes, a main storage line is disposed between the first
sub-pixel electrode and the second sub-pixel electrode and
extending in the first direction, the black matrix extends along
and overlaps both the gate line and the main storage line, and the
shielding electrode and the black matrix are overlapped in areas in
which two adjacent data lines cross the gate line and the main
storage line.
Description
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 15/685,352, filed on Aug. 24, 2017, which is a
continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/138,256, filed
on Dec. 23, 2013, which claims priority to Korean Patent
Application No. 10-2013-0089566, filed on Jul. 29, 2013, and all
the benefits accruing therefrom under 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 119, the
content of which in its entirety is herein incorporated by
reference.
BACKGROUND
1. Field
[0002] The disclosure relates to a display device. More
particularly, the disclosure relates to a display device having a
curved display panel.
2. Description of the Related Art
[0003] A liquid crystal display includes two substrates and a
liquid crystal layer disposed between the two substrates. The
liquid crystal display drives liquid crystal molecules of the
liquid crystal layer to control a light transmittance in pixels,
thereby displaying an image.
[0004] In a vertical alignment mode liquid crystal display among
various operation modes of the liquid crystal display, the liquid
crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer are vertically
aligned with respect to the substrates when an electric field is
generated between the two substrates, and the vertically aligned
liquid crystal molecules transmits the light, to thereby display
the image. The vertical alignment mode liquid crystal display
includes liquid crystal domains to align the liquid crystal
molecules in different directions, and thus a viewing angle of the
liquid crystal display is improved.
[0005] In recent years, a curved display device has been developed.
The curved display device provides a user with a curved display
area, and thus the curved display device provides the image having
improved three-dimensional effect, immersiveness and presence to
the user.
SUMMARY
[0006] The disclosure provides a curved display device including a
curved display panel with improved display quality.
[0007] Exemplary embodiments of the invention provide a curved
display device curved in a first direction. In such embodiments,
the curved display device includes a first substrate, a second
substrate disposed opposite to the first substrate and including a
common electrode, and a light control layer interposed between the
first substrate and the second substrate.
[0008] In such embodiments, the first substrate includes a
plurality of signal lines, an insulating layer which covers the
signal lines, a pixel electrode disposed on the insulating layer,
and a shielding electrode electrically insulated from the pixel
electrode and disposed along a signal line, which extends
substantially in a second direction crossing the first direction,
among the signal lines.
[0009] According to such exemplary embodiment, the shielding
electrode receives the voltage having substantially the same
electric potential as the voltage applied to the common electrode,
and thus no electric field is generated between the shielding
electrode and the common electrode. Therefore, the shielding
electrode blocks the light provided from the backlight assembly
through the liquid crystal layer, and the black matrix may be
omitted from the second substrate corresponding to the shielding
electrode.
[0010] Thus, the black matrix on the second substrate may be
effectively prevented from being perceived as the vertical dark
portion of a line shape in a pixel area, which is caused by
misalignment between the first and second substrates.
[0011] In such embodiments, by adjusting the width of the shielding
electrode, texture defects may be effectively prevented from being
perceived due to the misalignment of the liquid crystal molecules
in a boundary between adjacent pixel electrodes to each other.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] The above and other feature of the disclosure will become
more apparent by describing in further detail exemplary embodiments
thereof with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0013] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a curved display device, according to the invention;
[0014] FIG. 1B is a side view of the curved display device shown in
FIG. 1A;
[0015] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an exemplary embodiment of a
first substrate, according to the invention;
[0016] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' shown
in FIG. 2 when an electric field is generated between first and
second substrates;
[0017] FIG. 4 is a plan view showing an exemplary embodiment of a
curved display device, according to the invention;
[0018] FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II'
shown in FIG. 4;
[0019] FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III'
shown in FIG. 4;
[0020] FIG. 6 is a plan view showing an exemplary embodiment of a
shielding electrode;
[0021] FIG. 7A is a view showing a pixel in which vertical line
defects occur;
[0022] FIG. 7B is a view showing an exemplary embodiment of a pixel
including the shielding electrode;
[0023] FIG. 8 is a graph of misalignment value versus radius of
curvature of the curved display devices having various panel
sizes;
[0024] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing an alternative
exemplary embodiment of a curved display device, according to the
invention;
[0025] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a pixel structure of an
alternative exemplary embodiment of a curved display device,
according to the invention; and
[0026] FIG. 11 is a view showing domains and liquid crystal
alignment directions, which are defined in pixel areas.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0027] The invention now will be described more fully hereinafter
with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which various
embodiments are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in
many different forms, and should not be construed as limited to the
embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are
provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and
will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in
the art. Like reference numerals refer to like elements
throughout.
[0028] It will be understood that when an element or layer is
referred to as being "on", "connected to" or "coupled to" another
element or layer, it can be directly on, connected or coupled to
the other element or layer or intervening elements or layers may be
present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being
"directly on," "directly connected to" or "directly coupled to"
another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or
layers present.
[0029] It will be understood that, although the terms first,
second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements,
components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements,
components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited
by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one
element, component, region, layer or section from another region,
layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer
or section discussed below could be termed a second element,
component, region, layer or section without departing from the
teachings herein.
[0030] Spatially relative terms, such as "beneath", "below",
"lower", "above", "upper" and the like, may be used herein for ease
of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to
another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It
will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended
to encompass different orientations of the device in use or
operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures.
For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements
described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would
then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the
exemplary term "below" can encompass both an orientation of above
and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees
or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors
used herein interpreted accordingly.
[0031] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing
particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of
the invention. As used herein, the singular forms, "a", "an" and
"the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the
context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood
that the terms "includes" and/or "including", when used in this
specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers,
steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude
the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers,
steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.
[0032] "About" or "approximately" as used herein is inclusive of
the stated value and means within an acceptable range of deviation
for the particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in
the art, considering the measurement in question and the error
associated with measurement of the particular quantity (i.e., the
limitations of the measurement system). For example, "about" can
mean within one or more standard deviations, or within +30%, 20%,
10%, 5% of the stated value.
[0033] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and
scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly
understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this
invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such
as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be
interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their
meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be
interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly
so defined herein.
[0034] Exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to
cross section illustrations that are schematic illustrations of
idealized embodiments. As such, variations from the shapes of the
illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques
and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, embodiments described
herein should not be construed as limited to the particular shapes
of regions as illustrated herein but are to include deviations in
shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing. For example, a
region illustrated or described as flat may, typically, have rough
and/or nonlinear features. Moreover, sharp angles that are
illustrated may be rounded. Thus, the regions illustrated in the
figures are schematic in nature and their shapes are not intended
to illustrate the precise shape of a region and are not intended to
limit the scope of the present claims Hereinafter, exemplary
embodiments of the invention will be described in detail with
reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0035] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a curved display device, according to the invention, and FIG. 1B is
a side view of the curved display device shown in FIG. 1A.
[0036] Referring to FIG. 1A, an exemplary embodiment, a display
device 500 has a shape curved in a first direction D1. In such an
embodiment, the display device 500 may be curved in a direction in
which a user watches the display device 500, and thus the user
perceives an image displayed on a curved screen, e.g., a cured
display area DA therein. The display device 500 having the curved
display area DA is referred to as a curved display device 500. When
the image is displayed using the curved display device 500,
three-dimensional effect, immersiveness and presence of the image
provided to the user may be substantially improved.
[0037] In an exemplary embodiment, the curved display device 500
includes a first substrate 100, a second substrate 300 facing the
first substrate 100, and a light control layer (not shown)
interposed between the first substrate 100 and the second substrate
300. In one exemplary embodiment, for example, the light control
layer may be, but not limited to, a liquid crystal layer.
[0038] The first and second substrates 100 and 300 have a shape
curved along the first direction D1. A portion or an entire of the
first substrate 100 may be continuously curved along the first
direction D1, and thus the display area DA is curved along the
first direction D1 to have a curved surface shape. In such an
embodiment, the second substrate 300 may be curved corresponding to
the first substrate 100.
[0039] Referring to FIG. 1B, in an exemplary embodiment, where the
first and second substrates 100 and 300 have the curved shape, a
normal line 10 vertical to a tangent line 11 in contact with a
first position P1 on a surface (e.g., an outer surface) of the
second substrate 300 passes through a second position P2 on a
surface (e.g., an outer surface) of the first substrate 100.
However, a gaze line 15, which passes through the second position
P2 in a gaze direction, in which the user watches the curved
display device 500, passes through a third position P3 on the
second substrate 300, which is different from the first position P1
on the second substrate 300.
[0040] A distance between the first position P1 and the third
position P3 is varied depending on a curvature of the curved
display device 500. In such an embodiment, as the curvature of the
curved display device 500 increases, the distance between the first
position P1 and the third position P3 increases.
[0041] As described above, a phenomenon in which the distance
occurs between the first position P1 and the third position P3 is
referred to as a misalignment between the first and second
substrates 100 and 300 due to the curvature. Herein, the distance
between the first position P1 and the third position P3 is defined
as a misalignment value. Hereinafter, an exemplary embodiment of a
curved display device, in which a texture defect is effectively
prevented from being perceived due to the misalignment, will be
described in detail.
[0042] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an exemplary embodiment of the
first substrate, according to the invention, and FIG. 3 is a
cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' shown in FIG. 2 when an
electric field is generated between the first and second
substrates.
[0043] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the first substrate 100 of the
curved display device 500 includes first and second gate lines
GLi-1 and GLi and first and second data lines DLj and DLj+1
disposed thereon. In an exemplary embodiment, a pixel electrode PEj
is disposed in a pixel area PA, which may be defined by the first
and second gate lines GLi-1 and GLi and first and second data lines
DLj and DLj+1.
[0044] The pixel electrode PEj is disposed to be spaced apart from
and electrically insulated from other pixel electrodes adjacent
thereto in the first direction D1, e.g., a left side pixel
electrode PEj-1 and a right pixel electrode PEj+1.
[0045] The first substrate 100 further includes a thin film
transistor TR electrically connected to the second gate line GLi
and the first data line DLj to switch a signal applied to the pixel
electrode PEj. In an exemplary embodiment, the thin film transistor
TR includes a gate electrode GE branched from the second gate line
GLi, a source electrode SE branched from the first data line DLj,
and a drain electrode DE electrically connected to the pixel
electrode PEj.
[0046] The first and second gate lines GLi-1 and GLi extend
substantially in the first direction D1, and the first and second
data lines DLj and LDj+1 extends substantially in a second
direction D2, which is perpendicular to the first direction D1. In
an exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the first and second
gate lines GLi-1 and GLi and first and second data lines DLj and
DLj+1 have a stripe shape, but not being limited thereto. In an
alternative exemplary embodiment, the first and second gate lines
GLi-1 and GLi and first and second data lines DLj and DLj+1 may
have a curved shape.
[0047] In an exemplary embodiment, a first shielding electrode SCEj
is disposed between the pixel electrode PEj and the left pixel
electrode PEj-1, and a second shielding electrode SCEj+1 is
disposed between the pixel electrode PEj and the right pixel
electrode PEj+1.
[0048] The first and second shielding electrodes SCEj and SCEj+1
are disposed along the first and second data lines DLj and DLj+1,
respectively, and have a width greater than a width of the first
and second data lines DLj and DLj+1. In such an embodiment, the
first and second shielding electrodes SCEj and SCEj+1 are disposed
to cover the first and second data lines DLj and DLj+1,
respectively, when viewed in a plan view.
[0049] The first shielding electrode SCEj has the width less than a
distance between the pixel electrode PEj and the left pixel
electrode PEj-1, and the pixel electrode PEj is electrically
insulated from the left pixel electrode PEj-1. The second shielding
electrode SCEj+1 has the width less than a distance between the
pixel electrode PEj and the right pixel electrode PEj+1, and the
pixel electrode PEj is electrically insulated from the right pixel
electrode PEj+1.
[0050] As shown in FIG. 3, when the distance between the pixel
electrode PEj and the right pixel electrode PEj+1 is referred to as
"d1", the second shielding electrode SCEj+1 has the width w1 less
than "d1".
[0051] In an exemplary embodiment, the second substrate 300
includes a common electrode CE facing the pixel electrode PEj. The
liquid crystal layer LC is interposed between the pixel electrode
PE and the common electrode CE, and liquid crystal molecules of the
liquid crystal layer LC are aligned by an electric field generated
between the pixel electrode PE and the common electrode CE. The
common electrode CE is applied with a common voltage, and the pixel
electrode PE is applied with a data voltage from the first data
line DLj. Therefore, the electric field generated between the pixel
electrode PE and the common electrode CE has an intensity
corresponding to an electric potential difference between the
common voltage and the data voltage, and the alignment of the
liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer LC is varied
in accordance with the intensity of the electric field, thereby
controlling the light transmittance of the liquid crystal layer
LC.
[0052] In such an embodiment, light provided to the liquid crystal
layer LC may be light provided from a backlight assembly (not
shown) disposed below the first substrate 100.
[0053] In an exemplary embodiment, the first and second shielding
electrodes SCEj and SCEj+1 are applied with a voltage having a
black grayscale. In one exemplary embodiment, for example, the
voltage applied to the first and second shielding electrodes SCEj
and SCEj+1 may have substantially the same electric potential as
the common voltage applied to the common electrode CE. Accordingly,
as shown in FIG. 3, the electric field is not generated between the
second shielding electrode SCEj+1 and the common electrode CE. In
such an embodiment, when the liquid crystal layer LC includes
negative liquid crystal molecules, the liquid crystal molecules are
substantially vertically aligned with respect to the surface of the
second shielding electrode SCEj+1 in a non-electric field
state.
[0054] As described above, when the liquid crystal molecules are
substantially vertically aligned, the light provided from the
backlight assembly may be blocked by the vertically-aligned liquid
crystal molecules. Thus, the area in which the first and second
shielding electrodes SCEj and SCEj+1 are disposed may become a
light blocking area BA that blocks the light provided from the
backlight assembly.
[0055] As described above, in an exemplary embodiment, where the
first and second shielding electrodes SCEj and SCEj+1 are disposed
along the first and second data lines DLj and DLj+1, the light
blocking area BA may be defined along the second direction D2.
[0056] In such an embodiment, the second substrate 300 may not
include a black matrix in a region corresponding to the light
blocking area of the first substrate 100, in which the first and
second shielding electrodes SCEj and SCEj+1 are disposed.
[0057] Therefore, in such an embodiment, where the pixel electrode
PEj and the first and second shielding electrodes SCEj and SCEj+1
are disposed on the first substrate 100, the light blocking area BA
may be effectively prevented from moving inside the pixel area PA
even when the misalignment occurs between the first substrate 100
and the second substrate 300. Thus, a vertical dark portion that
appears in a line shape may be effectively prevented from being
formed in the pixel area PA along a direction, to which the curved
display device 500 is curved, e.g., the second direction D2
vertical to the first direction D1.
[0058] FIG. 4 is a plan view showing an exemplary embodiment of a
curved display device, according to the invention, FIG. 5A is a
cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' shown in FIG. 4, and
FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III' shown
in FIG. 4.
[0059] The curved display device 500 includes a plurality of
pixels, in which the pixels have substantially the same structure
and function as each other. Accordingly, for convenience of
illustration, FIG. 4 shows only two pixels, e.g., first and second
pixels Pij and Pi(j+1), arranged in the first direction D1.
[0060] Referring to FIGS. 4, 5A and 5B, an exemplary embodiment of
the curved display device 500 includes a first substrate 100, a
second substrate 300 disposed opposite to, e.g., facing, the first
substrate 100, and a liquid crystal layer LC interposed between the
first substrate 100 and the second substrate 300.
[0061] The first substrate 100 includes a first base substrate S1,
first and second gate lines GLi-1 and GLi, first, second, third and
fourth data lines DL1j, DL2j, DL1(j+1) and DL2(j+1), and a storage
line.
[0062] The first base substrate S1 may be an insulating substrate
having a light transmitting property and a flexible property, such
as a plastic substrate, for example. In one exemplary embodiment,
for example, the first pixel Pij is disposed in a first pixel area
defined by the first and second gate lines GLi-1 and GLi and the
first and second data lines DL1j and DL2j, and a second pixel
Pi(j+1) is disposed in a second pixel area defined by the first and
second gate line GLi-1 and GLi and the third and fourth data lines
DL1(j+1) and DL2(j+1).
[0063] The first pixel Pij includes first and second thin film
transistors TR1 and TR2, and first and second sub-pixel electrodes
SPE1 and SPE2, and the second pixel Pi(j+1) includes third and
fourth thin film transistors TR3 and TR4, and third and fourth
sub-pixel electrodes SPE3 and SPE4.
[0064] A shielding electrode SCE is disposed between the first and
second pixels Pij and Pi(j+1). The shielding electrode SCE extends
substantially in a second direction D2, which is perpendicular to a
first direction D1.
[0065] As shown in FIG. 4, the first and second gate lines GLi-1
and GLi extend substantially in the first direction D1 and the
first to fourth data lines DL1j, DL2j, DL1(j+1) and DL2(j+1) extend
substantially in the second direction D2, which is perpendicular to
the first direction D1. The first and second gate lines GLi-1 and
GLi are insulated from the first to fourth data lines DL1j, DL2j,
DL1(j+1) and DL2(j+1) while crossing the first to fourth data lines
DL1j, DL2j, DL1(j+1) and DL2(j+1) by a gate insulating layer
112.
[0066] The first thin film transistor TR1 includes a first gate
electrode GE1 branched from the second gate line GLi, a first
source electrode SE1 branched from the first data line DL1j, and a
first drain electrode DE1 spaced apart from the first source
electrode SE1 by a predetermined distance. The second thin film
transistor TR2 includes a second gate electrode GE2 branched from
the second gate line GLi, a second source electrode SE2 branched
from the second data line DL2j, and a second drain electrode DE2
spaced apart from the second source electrode SE2 by a
predetermined distance.
[0067] The first pixel area PA1 includes two sub-pixel areas
arranged in the second direction D2, e.g., a first sub-pixel area
SPA1 and a second sub-pixel area SPA2. In an exemplary embodiment,
the first sub-pixel area SPA1 may have a size different from a size
of the second sub-pixel area SPA2. In one exemplary embodiment, for
example, the first sub-pixel area SPA1 may be smaller than the
second sub-pixel area SPA2.
[0068] The first sub-pixel electrode SPE1 is disposed in the first
sub-pixel area SPA1 and electrically connected to the first drain
electrode DE1 of the first thin film transistor TR1. The second
sub-pixel electrode SPE2 is disposed in the second sub-pixel area
SPA2 and electrically connected to the second drain electrode DE2
of the second thin film transistor TR2.
[0069] The first sub-pixel electrode SPE1 includes a first trunk
portion T1 and a plurality of first branch portions B1 extending
from the first trunk portion T1 in a radial form to divide the
first sub-pixel area SPA1 into a plurality of domains. In an
exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the first trunk portion
T1 has a cross shape, and thus the first sub-pixel area SPA1 is
divided into four domains by the first trunk portion T1. The first
branch portions B1 extend in directions substantially parallel to
each other and arranged to be spaced apart from each other in each
domain defined by the first trunk portion T1. In one exemplary
embodiment, for example, the first branch portions B1 may extend in
a direction inclined at about 45 degrees with respect to the first
trunk portion T1. In an exemplary embodiment, the first branch
portions B1, which are adjacent to each other, are spaced apart
from each other by a distance of micrometers (e.g., a few, several
or tens of micrometers) such that a plurality of first fine slits
US1 is defined in the first branch portions B1. Due to the first
fine slits US1, the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal
layer LC are pre-tilted in different directions in the domains.
[0070] The second sub-pixel electrode SPE2 includes a second trunk
portion T2 and a plurality of second branch portions B2 extending
from the second trunk portion T2 in a radial form to divide the
second sub-pixel area SPA2 into a plurality of domains. In an
exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the second trunk portion
T2 has a cross shape, and thus the second sub-pixel area SPA2 is
divided into four domains by the second trunk portion T2. The
second branch portions B2 extend in directions substantially
parallel to each other and arranged to be spaced apart from each
other in each domain defined by the second trunk portion T2. In an
exemplary embodiment, the second branch portions B2, which are
adjacent to each other, are spaced apart from each other by a
distance of micrometers such that a plurality of second fine slits
US2 is defined in the second branch portions B2. Due to the second
fine slits US2, the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal
layer LC are pre-tilted in different directions in the domains.
[0071] The storage line includes a main storage line MSLi, which is
disposed between the first sub-pixel area SPA1 and the second
sub-pixel area SPA2 and extends substantially in the first
direction D1, and first and second sub-storage lines SSL1 and SSL2,
which are branched from the main storage line MSLi and extend
substantially in the second direction D2.
[0072] The main storage line MSLi may partially overlap the first
and second sub-pixel electrodes SPE1 and SPE2 when viewed in a plan
view. The first and second sub-storage lines SSL1 and SSL2 may
partially overlap the first sub-pixel electrode SPE1. In an
exemplary embodiment, a distance between the first and second
sub-storage lines SSL1 and SSL2 may be less than a distance between
the first and second data lines DL1j and DL2j, and a width in the
first direction D1 of the first sub-pixel electrode SPE1 may be
greater than a distance between the first and second sub-storage
lines SSL1 and SSL2 and less than the distance between the first
and second data lines DL1j and DL2j.
[0073] In an exemplary embodiment, the first pixel Pij further
includes a storage electrode SSE, which is branched from the first
gate line GLi-1 and partially overlaps the second sub-pixel
electrode SPE2.
[0074] The second pixel Pi(j+1) has substantially the same
structure and function as the first pixel Pij, and thus repetitive
detailed descriptions of the second pixel Pi(j+1) will be
omitted.
[0075] The second pixel Pi(j+1) shares the first and second gate
lines GLi-1 and GLi and the main storage line MSLi with the first
pixel Pij. In such an embodiment, the second pixel Pi(j+1) includes
third and fourth thin film transistors TR3 and TR4 electrically
connected to the third and fourth data lines DL1(j+1) and DL2(j+1),
and third and fourth sub-pixel electrodes SPE3 and SPE4
electrically connected to the third and fourth thin film
transistors TR3 and TR4. In such an embodiment, the second pixel
Pi(j+1) includes third and fourth sub-storage lines SSL3 and
SSL4.
[0076] FIG. 5A shows a cross-sectional structure of a boundary
portion between the first pixel Pij and the second pixel
Pi(j+1).
[0077] Referring to FIG. 5A, the second and third sub-storage lines
SSL2 and SSL3 are disposed on the first base substrate S1 together
with the first and second gate lines GLi-1 and GLi.
[0078] The second and third sub-storage lines SSL2 and SSL3 are
covered by the gate insulating layer 112, and the second and third
data lines DL2j and DL1(j+1) are disposed on the gate insulating
layer 112.
[0079] In an exemplary embodiment, a distance d2 between the second
and third sub-storage lines SSL2 and SSL3 is greater than a
distance d3 between the second and third data lines DL2j and
DL1(j+1). When viewed in a plan view, the second sub-storage line
SSL2 partially overlaps the second data line DL2 or spaced apart
from the second data line DL2 by a predetermined distance. In an
exemplary embodiment, the third sub-storage line SSL3 partially
overlaps the third data line DL1(j+1) or spaced apart from the
third data line DL1(j+1) by a predetermined distance.
[0080] The second and third data lines DL2j and DL1(j+1) are
covered by an organic insulating layer 113. The organic insulating
layer 113 may define a red color pixel R, a green color pixel G and
a blue color pixel (not shown). In an exemplary embodiment, the red
color pixel R is defined in the first pixel area PA1 and the green
color pixel G is defined in the second pixel area PA2.
[0081] The first to fourth sub-pixel electrodes SPE1 to SPE4 are
disposed on the organic insulating layer 113. When viewed in a plan
view, the first sub-pixel electrode SPE1 of the first pixel Pij
overlaps the second sub-storage line SSL2, and the third sub-pixel
electrode SPE3 of the second pixel Pi(j+1) overlaps the third
sub-storage line SSL3.
[0082] The first and third sub-pixel electrodes SPE1 and SPE3 are
spaced apart from each other in the first direction D1. In an
exemplary embodiment, a distance between the first and third
sub-pixel electrodes SPE1 and SPE3 is greater than the distance d2
between the second and third sub-storage lines SSL2 and SSL3.
[0083] A shielding electrode SCE is disposed between the first
pixel Pij and the second pixel Pi(j+1). As shown in FIG. 4, the
shielding electrode SCE extends substantially in the second
direction D2 along the second and third data lines DL2j and
DL1(j+1). The shielding electrode SCE is disposed to be spaced
apart from the first and third sub-pixel electrodes SPE1 and SPE3,
and thus the shielding electrode SCE is electrically insulated from
the first and third sub-pixel electrodes SPE1 and SPE3.
[0084] In an exemplary embodiment, the shielding electrode SCE is
disposed on the organic insulating layer 113. In such an
embodiment, the shielding electrode SCE may include a transparent
conductive material, e.g., indium tin oxide ("ITO"), indium zinc
oxide ("IZO"), etc., as the first and third sub-pixel electrodes
SPE1 and SPE3.
[0085] A width w2 in the first direction D1 of the shielding
electrode SCE may be less than the distance between the first and
third sub-pixel electrodes SPE1 and SPE3 and greater than the
distance d3 between the second and third data lines DL2j and
DL1(j+1).
[0086] In such an embodiment, the width w2 of the shielding
electrode SCE may be equal to or greater than a sum of the distance
d3 between the second and third data lines DL2j and DL1(j+1), the
width of the second data line DL2j and the width of the third data
line DL1(j+1).
[0087] A method of determining the width w2 of the shielding
electrode SCE will be described in detail with reference to FIG.
8.
[0088] In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the
shielding electrode SCE and the first to fourth sub-pixel
electrodes SPE1 to SPE4 are disposed on a same layer as each other.
In an alternative exemplary embodiment, the shielding electrode SCE
may be disposed on a difference layer from the first to fourth
sub-pixel electrodes SPE1 to SPE4. In one exemplary embodiment, for
example, the shielding electrode SCE may be disposed on the organic
insulating layer 113, the shielding electrode SCE may be covered by
an inter-insulating layer (not shown), and the first to fourth
sub-pixel electrodes SPE1 to SPE4 may be disposed on the
inter-insulating layer.
[0089] FIG. 6 is a plan view showing an exemplary embodiment of the
shielding electrode.
[0090] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 6, a plurality of shielding
electrodes SCE are disposed on the first substrate 100, and the
shielding electrodes SCE extend substantially in the second
direction D2 to be substantially parallel to each other and
arranged substantially in the first direction D1. Each of the
shielding electrodes SCE may be disposed adjacent to a boundary
between pixel columns.
[0091] The shielding electrodes SCE are connected to each other by
first and second connection lines CL1 and CL2. In such an
embodiment, the first connection line CL1 is commonly connected to
first end portions of the shielding electrodes SCE and the second
connection line CL2 is commonly connected to second end portions of
the shielding electrodes SCE.
[0092] In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, the first
and second connection lines CL1 and CL2 are integrally formed with
the shielding electrodes SCE as a single unitary and indivisible
unit, but not being limited thereto or thereby. In an alternative
exemplary embodiment, the first and second connection lines CL1 and
CL2 may be disposed on the same layer as the storage line MSLi and
SSL1 to SSL4, and then electrically connected to the shielding
electrodes SCE through contact holes.
[0093] In an exemplary embodiment, the first and second connection
lines CL1 and CL2 are connected to both ends of the shielding
electrodes SCE, respectively. In an alternative exemplary
embodiment, only one of the first and second connection lines CL1
and CL2 may be disposed on the first substrate 100.
[0094] The first and second connection lines CL1 and CL2 receive a
voltage (hereinafter, referred to as common voltage Vcom) having
the same electric potential as the common voltage Vcom from an
external source (not shown). According to another exemplary
embodiment, the first and second connection lines CL1 and CL2 may
be applied with a voltage having different electric potential from
the common voltage Vcom.
[0095] Referring back to FIG. 5A, the second substrate 300 includes
a second base substrate S2, an overcoating layer 312 and a common
electrode 313. The common electrode 313 receives the common voltage
Vcom and is disposed to face the first to fourth sub-pixel
electrodes SPE1 to SPE4, and thus the electric field is generated
between the common electrode 313 and the first to fourth sub-pixel
electrodes SPE1 to SPE4. In an exemplary embodiment, the common
electrode 313 may be integrally formed as a single unitary and
individual unit.
[0096] The shielding electrode SCE is applied with the voltage
having substantially the same electric potential as the common
voltage Vcom applied to the common electrode 313. Accordingly, the
electric field is effectively prevented from being generated
between the shielding electrode SCE and the common electrode 313.
In such an embodiment, when the liquid crystal layer LC includes
the negative liquid crystal molecules, the liquid crystal molecules
are substantially vertically aligned with respect to the surface of
the shielding electrode SCE in the non-electric field state.
[0097] As described above, when the liquid crystal molecules are
substantially vertically aligned, the light provided from the
backlight assembly may be blocked by the vertically-aligned liquid
crystal molecules. Thus, the area, in which the shielding electrode
SCE is disposed, may function as a first light blocking area BA1
that blocks the light provided from the backlight assembly.
[0098] As described above, in such an embodiment, where the
shielding electrode SCE is disposed along the first and second data
lines DL2j and DL1(j+1), the first light blocking area BA1 may be
disposed in the second direction D2.
[0099] The second substrate 300 may not include a black matrix in a
region corresponding to the area in which the shielding electrode
SCE is disposed.
[0100] Therefore, in such an embodiment, where the shielding
electrode is disposed on the first substrate 100, the first light
blocking area BA1 may be effectively prevented from moving inside
the pixel area PA even though the misalignment occurs between the
first substrate 100 and the second substrate 300. Thus, the
vertical dark portion that appears in the line shape may be
effectively prevented from being formed in the pixel area PA along
the direction to which the curved display device 500 is curved,
e.g., the second direction D2 vertical to the first direction
D1.
[0101] Referring again to FIGS. 4 and 5B, the second substrate 300
further includes a black matrix 314. The black matrix 314 includes
a material that blocks the light incident thereon, and thus the
black matrix 314 blocks the transmission of light incident thereon,
e.g., light leakage.
[0102] The black matrix 314 is disposed along the main storage line
MSLi and the first and second gate lines GLi-1 and GLi, such that
the black matrix 314 has a stripe shape extending substantially in
the first direction D1.
[0103] In an exemplary embodiment of the curved display device 500,
which is curved in the first direction D1, the misalignment does
not occur between the first and second substrates 100 and 300 in
the second direction D2. Therefore, the black matrix 314 disposed
on the second substrate 300 extends substantially in the first
direction D1 and thereby defines a second light blocking area BA2.
In such an embodiment, the second light blocking area BA2 is
disposed substantially in the first direction D1.
[0104] The black matrix 314 may be omitted in an area of the second
substrate 300, which corresponds to the first light blocking area
BA1 defined by the shielding electrode SCE disposed on the first
substrate 100.
[0105] In an exemplary embodiment, the shielding electrode SCE and
the black matrix 314 are disposed in areas in which the first to
fourth data lines DL1j, DL2j, DL1(j+1) and DL2(j+1) cross the first
and second gate lines GL1-1 and GLi and the main storage line
MSLi.
[0106] In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the
overcoating layer 312 may compensate a step difference caused by
the black matrix 314. Accordingly, the common electrode 313 may be
disposed on the overcoating layer 312 having a substantially
uniform or even surface, and thus the distance between the common
electrode 313 and the first to fourth sub-pixel electrodes SPE1 to
SPE4 may be substantially uniformly maintained.
[0107] In an exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the curved
display device 500 may be curved in one specific direction, e.g.,
the first direction D1. In an alternative exemplary embodiment, the
curved display device 500 may be curved in the first and second
directions D1 and D2 or a semi-spherical shape, and the shielding
electrode SCE may be disposed substantially in the first and second
directions D1 and D2. In such an embodiment, the black matrix 314
disposed on the second substrate 300 may be omitted.
[0108] FIG. 7A is view showing a pixel in which vertical line
defects occur, and FIG. 7B is a view showing a pixel including the
shielding electrode.
[0109] FIG. 7A shows a brightness of the pixel, which is measured
when the black matrix having the mesh shape and extending
substantially in the first and second directions D1 and D2 is
disposed on the second substrate 300 while the curved display
device 500 is curved in the first direction D1. According to FIG.
7A, when the first and second substrates 100 and 300 are misaligned
with each other, the misalignment occurs between the black matrix
and the data line, which are disposed in the second direction D2.
As a result, the vertical dark portion VD of the line shape is
generated in the pixel area PA due to the black matrix.
[0110] As shown in FIG. 7B, in an exemplary embodiment, when the
black matrix 314 (refer to FIG. 5B) having the stripe shape and
extending substantially in the first direction D1 is disposed on
the second substrate 300 and the shielding electrode SCE (refer to
FIG. 4) extending substantially in the second direction D2 is
disposed on the first substrate 100 along the data line, the
vertical dark portion VD of the line shape is not generated except
for the boundary portion between the domains in the pixel area
PA.
[0111] As described above, in an exemplary embodiment, the vertical
dark portion VD of the line shape is effectively prevented from
being formed in the pixel area PA by the shielding electrode SCE,
the display quality of the curved display device 500 may be
substantially improved.
[0112] FIG. 8 is a graph of misalignment value versus radius of
curvature of the curved display devices having various panel
sizes.
[0113] In FIG. 8, an x-axis indicates the radius of curvature
(millimeter: mm) of the curved display device 500 and a y-axis
indicates a misalignment value (micrometer: m) between the first
substrate 100 and the second substrate 300. In FIG. 8, first to
seventh graphs G1 to G7 represent the misalignment value versus the
radius of curvature of the curved display devices having 32-inch,
40-inch, 46-inch, 55-inch, 70-inch, 85-inch and 95-inch panels,
respectively. The radius of curvature is inversely proportional to
the curvature.
[0114] As shown in FIG. 1B, the distance between the first position
P1 and the third position P3 may is defined as the misalignment
value between the first substrate 100 and the second substrate
300.
[0115] Referring to FIG. 8, the misalignment value is decreased as
the radius of curvature is increased, and the misalignment value is
increased as the panel size is increased. Therefore, the width w2
of the shielding electrode SCE is determined based on the radius of
curvature and the panel size of the curved display device 500.
[0116] The width w2 of the shielding electrode SCE may be a value
that satisfies the following Equation.
w2=C1+.alpha.(R)+.beta.(S)+.gamma.(S.sup.2)+.delta.(R.times.S)
Equation
In Equation, each of C1, .alpha., .beta., .gamma., .delta. denotes
a constant, R denotes the radius of curvature, and S denotes the
panel size. Each of C1, .alpha., .beta., .gamma., .delta. may have
a predetermined value.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 4000R (mm) Panel Center value of Minimum
value of Maximum value of size width of the shield width of
shielding width of shielding (inch) electrode (.mu.m) electrode
(.mu.m) electrode (.mu.m) 32 19 9 29 40 25 15 35 46 29 19 39 55 36
26 46 65 44 34 54 70 48 38 58 85 60 50 70 95 69 59 79
[0117] According to Table 1, when the radius of curvature is about
4,000 mm, the width w2 of the shielding electrode SCE is determined
for each panel size. The misalignment value may be varied not only
by the radius of curvature and the panel size but also by a
thickness of the panel or a structure of a spacer disposed in the
panel. Thus, a tolerance range of the width w2 may be set based on
is the value set by the Equation.
[0118] According to Table 1, when the radius of curvature is about
4,000 mm and the panel size is about 32-inch, the width w2 of the
shielding electrode SCE is about 19 .mu.m. The width w2 of the
shielding electrode SCE is set to values in the tolerance range
after a value less than the center value (19 .mu.m) by about 10
.mu.m is set to the minimum value (9 .mu.m) of the tolerance range
and a value greater than the center value (19 .mu.m) by about 10
.mu.m is set to the maximum value (29 .mu.m) of the tolerance
range.
[0119] However, the minimum value less than the center value by
about 10 .mu.m and the maximum value larger than the center value
by about 10 .mu.m should not be limited thereto or thereby. In one
exemplary embodiment, for example, when t denotes a predetermined
thickness value, a difference in the misalignment value between
when the thickness of the curved display panel is about 0.5t and
when the thickness of the curved display panel is about 0.7t is
about 10 .mu.m under the condition that the panel size is constant.
As described above, since the misalignment value is varied even
though the panel size is constant, the tolerance range of the width
w2 of the shielding electrode SCE may be set based on the
misalignment value difference by the thickness. In such an
embodiment, when the misalignment value caused by the thickness is
referred to as a reference value, the tolerance range of the width
of the shielding electrode may have a value obtained by subtracting
the reference value from the calculated center value as the minimum
value thereof and a value obtained by adding the reference value to
the calculated center value as the maximum value thereof.
[0120] In an exemplary embodiment of the curved display device
having other panel size, the width w2 of the shielding electrode
SCE may be set to a value in the tolerance range, a center value of
which is the calculated width w2 from the Equation above.
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 5000R (mm) Panel Center value of Minimum
value of Maximum value of size width of the shield width of
shielding width of shielding (inch) electrode (.mu.m) electrode
(.mu.m) electrode (.mu.m) 32 13 3 23 40 17 7 27 46 21 11 31 55 27
17 37 65 34 24 44 70 37 27 47 85 48 38 58 95 55 45 65
[0121] As represented in Table 2, when the radius of curvature is
increased to about 5,000 mm, the curvature is decreased, and thus
the misalignment value is reduced relative to the value when the
radius of curvature is about 4,000 mm. Therefore, the width w2 of
the shielding electrode SCE may be reduced.
[0122] The tolerance range of the width w2 may be set based on the
width w2 of the shielding electrode SCE, which is calculated by the
Equation. That is, the width w2 of the shielding electrode SCE may
be set to a value in the tolerance range, a center value of which
is the calculated width w2 from the Equation.
[0123] In an exemplary embodiment, the minimum value of the
tolerance range may be set to a value less than the center value by
about 10 .mu.m and the maximum value of the tolerance range may be
set to a value greater than the center value by about 10 .mu.m, but
the tolerance range should not be limited thereto or thereby. That
is, the tolerance range may be set based on other variables, e.g.,
the thickness of the panel or the structure of spacer.
[0124] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an alternative exemplary
embodiment of a curved display device 550, according to the
invention.
[0125] Referring to FIG. 9, the curved display device 550 is curved
in a first direction D1 and has variable curvature in a second
direction D2 substantially perpendicular to the first direction
D1.
[0126] In an exemplary embodiment, the curvature of the curved
display device 550 is varied along an imaginary line 20
substantially in parallel to the second direction D2. In such an
embodiment, the curvature of an upper portion of the curved display
device 550 on the imaginary line 20 may be relatively less than the
curvature of a lower portion of the curved display device 550 on
the imaginary line 20. In such an embodiment, the curvature of the
curved display device 550 may gradually increase from the upper
portion of the curved display device 550 toward the lower portion
of the curved display device 550.
[0127] In such an embodiment, the width w2 of the shielding
electrode SCE may be set to an average value of a first width
determined by the curvature of the upper portion and a second width
determined by the curvature of the lower portion. In such an
embodiment, the tolerance range of the width w2 may be set to have
the average value as the center value thereof.
[0128] According to an alternative exemplary embodiment, the width
w2 of the shielding electrode SCE may be set to the first width
determined by the curvature of the upper portion. In such an
embodiment, the tolerance range of the width w2 may be set to have
the first width as the center value thereof.
[0129] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a pixel structure of an
alternative exemplary embodiment of a curved display device,
according to the invention, and FIG. 11 is a view showing domains
and liquid crystal alignment directions, which are defined in pixel
areas. The same or like elements shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 have been
labeled with the same reference characters as used above to
describe the exemplary embodiment of the curved display device
shown in FIG. 4, and any repetitive detailed descriptions thereof
will be omitted or simplified.
[0130] Referring to FIG. 10, the first sub-pixel electrode SPE1
includes a first horizontal trunk portion HS1, a second horizontal
trunk portion HS2, a first vertical trunk portion VS1, and a second
vertical trunk portion VS2, and first, second, third and fourth
branch portions B1, B2, B3 and B4.
[0131] The first vertical horizontal portion VS1 is connected to
the first horizontal trunk portion HS1, edges of the first branch
portions B1, and edges of the second branch portions B2, and the
second vertical horizontal portion VS2 is connected to the second
horizontal trunk portion HS2, edges of the third branch portions
B3, and edges of the fourth branch portions B4. The first and
second vertical branch portions VS1 and VS2 extend substantially in
the second direction D2, and the second direction D2 crosses the
first direction D1 in which the curved display device 500 is
curved. In one exemplary embodiment, for example, the second
direction D2 may be substantially perpendicular to the first
direction D1 when viewed in a plan view.
[0132] The first horizontal trunk portion HS1 is connected to the
first vertical trunk portion VS1, edges of the first branch
portions B1, and edges of the second branch portions B2. The first
horizontal trunk portion HS1 extends in the first direction D1 and
branched from a center portion of the first vertical trunk portion
VS1. The first branch portions B1 may have a shape substantially
symmetrical to a shape of the second branch portions B2 with
respect to the first horizontal trunk portion HS1.
[0133] As shown in FIG. 11, the first horizontal trunk portion HS1
may be disposed between first and second domains.
[0134] The second horizontal trunk portion HS2 is connected to the
second vertical trunk portion VS2, edges of the third branch
portions B3 and edges of the fourth branch portions B4. The second
horizontal trunk portion HS2 extends substantially in the first
direction D1 and branched from a center portion of the second
vertical trunk portion VS2. The third branch portions B3 may have a
shape substantially symmetrical to a shape of the fourth branch
portions B4 with respect to the second horizontal trunk portion
HS2.
[0135] As shown in FIG. 11, the second horizontal trunk portion HS2
may be disposed between the third and fourth domains.
[0136] In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, a portion
of the first branch portions B1 is branched from the first
horizontal trunk portion HS1 and the other portion of the first
branch portions B1 is branched from the first vertical trunk
portion VS1. In such an embodiment, the first branch portions B1
extend substantially in a third direction D3 inclined with respect
to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 and arranged
to be spaced apart from each other when viewed in a plan view
[0137] In such an embodiment, a portion of the second branch
portions B2 is branched from the first horizontal trunk portion HS1
and the other portion of the second branch portions B2 is branched
from the first vertical trunk portion VS1. In such an embodiment,
the second branch portions B2 extend substantially in a fourth
direction D4 inclined with respect to the first and second
directions D1 and D2 and arranged to be spaced apart from each
other when viewed in a plan view.
[0138] When viewed in a plan view, the fourth direction D4 crosses
the third direction D3. In one exemplary embodiment, for example,
the third and fourth directions D3 and D4 may be substantially
perpendicular to each other when viewed in a plan view, and each of
the third and fourth directions D3 and D4 forms an angle of about
45 degrees with the first direction D1 or the second direction
D2.
[0139] In such an embodiment, a portion of the third branch
portions B3 is branched from the second horizontal trunk portion
HS2 and the other portion of the third branch portions B3 is
branched from the second vertical trunk portion VS2. In such an
embodiment, the third branch portions B3 extend substantially in a
fifth direction D5 inclined with respect to the first and second
directions D1 and D2 and arranged to be spaced apart from each
other when viewed in a plan view.
[0140] In such an embodiment, a portion of the fourth branch
portions B4 is branched from the second horizontal trunk portion
HS2 and the other portion of the fourth branch portions B4 is
branched from the second vertical trunk portion VS2. In such an
embodiment, the fourth branch portions B4 extend substantially in a
sixth direction D6 inclined with respect to the first and second
directions D1 and D2 and arranged to be spaced apart from each
other when viewed in a plan view.
[0141] When viewed in a plan view, the sixth direction D6 crosses
the fifth direction D5. In one exemplary embodiment, for example,
the fifth and sixth directions D5 and D6 may be substantially
perpendicular to each other when viewed in a plan view, and each of
the fifth and sixth directions D5 and D6 forms an angle of about 45
degrees with the first direction D1 or the second direction D2.
[0142] The second sub-pixel electrode SPE2 has a size different
from a size of the first sub-pixel electrode SPE1. The size of the
second sub-pixel electrode SPE2 may be larger than the size of the
first sub-pixel electrode SPE1.
[0143] The second sub-pixel electrode SPE2 includes a third
horizontal trunk portion HS3, a fourth horizontal trunk portion
HS4, a third vertical trunk portion VS3, a fourth vertical trunk
portion VS4, and fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth branch portions
B5, B6, B7 and B8.
[0144] The second sub-pixel electrode SPE2 has a similar shape as a
shape of the first sub-pixel electrode SPE1, and thus detailed
description of the second sub-pixel electrode SPE2 will be
omitted.
[0145] In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, first to
fourth domains DM1 to DM4 are defined in the first sub-pixel area
SPA1 and fifth to eighth domains DM5 to DM8 are defined in the
second sub-pixel area SPA2.
[0146] In such an embodiment, where the first to eight domains DM1
to DM8 are defined in the first and second sub-pixel areas SPA1 and
SPA2, the first sub-pixel electrode SPE1 may further include a
first domain connection portion LP1 and the second sub-pixel
electrode SPE2 may further include a second domain connection
portion LP2.
[0147] The first domain connection portion LP1 is disposed between
the second domain DM2 and the third domain DM3 to connect the
second and third branch portions B2 and B3, and the second domain
connection portion LP2 is disposed between the sixth domain DM6 and
the seventh domain DM7 to connect the sixth and seventh branch
portions B6 and B7. The first domain connection portion LP1 may be
positioned at a center portion of a boundary area between the
second and third domains DM2 and DM3, and the second domain
connection portion LP2 may be positioned at a center portion of a
boundary area between the sixth and seventh domains DM6 and
DM7.
[0148] When an area in which the liquid crystal molecules are
aligned by the first branch portions B1 is referred to as the first
domain DM1, a first liquid crystal alignment direction DR1 in the
first domain DM1 corresponds to the third direction DR3. When an
area in which the liquid crystal molecules are aligned by the
second branch portions B2 is referred to as the second domain DM2,
a second liquid crystal alignment direction DR2 in the second
domain DM2 corresponds to the fourth direction DR4.
[0149] When areas in which the liquid crystal molecules are aligned
by the third and fourth branch portions B3 and B4 are referred to
as third and fourth domains DM3 and DM4, respectively, the third
liquid crystal alignment direction DR3 in the third domain DM3
corresponds to the fifth direction D3, and the fourth liquid
crystal alignment direction DR4 in the fourth domain DM4
corresponds to the sixth direction D6.
[0150] In an exemplary embodiment, as described above, the first to
fourth domains DM1 to DM4 sequentially arranged in the second
direction D2 are defined in the first sub-pixel area SPA1, and the
liquid crystal alignment directions are different from each other
in the first to fourth domains DM1 to DM4. Thus, a visible range of
the first sub-pixel area SPA1 may be enlarged.
[0151] In such an embodiment, fifth to eighth domains DM5 to DM8
sequentially arranged in the second direction D2 are defined in the
second sub-pixel area SPA2, and the liquid crystal alignment
directions are different from each other in the fifth to eighth
domains DM5 to DM8. Thus, a visible range of the second sub-pixel
area SPA2 may be enlarged.
[0152] In such an embodiment, the first to eighth domains DM1 to
DM8 are arranged in the second direction D2 in a single pixel.
Accordingly, the domains having different liquid crystal alignment
directions may be effectively prevented from overlapping each other
even when the misalignment occurs in the curved display device 550
curved in the first direction D1. As a result, the texture defect
caused by the misalignment of the liquid crystal molecules may be
effectively prevented.
[0153] Although the exemplary embodiments of the invention have
been described, it is understood that the invention should not be
limited to these exemplary embodiments but various changes and
modifications may be made by one ordinary skilled in the art within
the spirit and scope of the invention as hereinafter claimed.
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