Display device

A display device includes a light providing assembly to provide light, and a display panel to display an image using the light. The display panel includes a first substrate (FS), a second substrate (SS), a liquid crystal layer (LCL), a polarizing plate (PP), a first optical element (FOE), and a second optical element (SOE). The FS includes a pixel region (PR) and a non-PR (NPR) adjacent to the PR. The SS faces the FS. The LCL is disposed between the FS and SS. The PP is disposed between the FS and LCL, and includes grid polarizing layers. The FOE is disposed between the FS and PP, and is configured to redirect a fraction of the light propagating toward the NPR in a first direction. The SOE is disposed between the FOE and PP, and is configured to redirect the fraction of light propagating in the first direction toward the PR.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority from and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2013-0043119, filed on Apr. 18, 2013, which is incorporated by reference for all purposes as if set forth herein.

BACKGROUND

Exemplary embodiments relate to display technology, and, more particularly, to a display device including a polarizing plate with grid polarizing layers.

Conventional non-self-luminous display devices, such as liquid crystal display devices, typically include a backlight assembly configured to generate light to facilitate the display of an image on an associated display panel. The display panel may include a display substrate with a plurality of pixels, an opposite substrate facing the display substrate, a liquid crystal layer disposed between the display substrate and the opposite substrate, and polarizing plates to polarize incident light emitted from the backlight assembly.

It is noted that the aforementioned polarizing plates may be replaced with a wire grid polarizer (or diffraction grating). The wire grid polarizer includes a plurality of grid polarizing layers including a reflective material, such as, for example, a reflective metal material. Each of the grid polarizing layers may longitudinally extend along a first direction, and the grid polarizing layers may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a second direction, which may be perpendicular (or substantially perpendicular) to the first direction. It is further noted that the wire grid polarizers may be provided in a structure embedded in the display panel, and they may be more easily manufactured and assembled in association with a conventional display device than conventional polarizing plates.

SUMMARY

Exemplary embodiments provide a display device configured to increase light efficiency from light emitted from a backlight assembly.

According to exemplary embodiments, a display device includes: a light providing assembly configured to provide light, and a display panel configured to display an image using the light. The display panel includes a first substrate, a second substrate, a liquid crystal layer, a polarizing plate, a first optical element, and a second optical element. The first substrate includes a pixel region and a non-pixel region adjacent to the pixel region. The second substrate faces the first substrate. The liquid crystal layer is disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. The polarizing plate is disposed between the first substrate and the liquid crystal layer. The polarizing plate includes grid polarizing layers. The first optical element is disposed between the first substrate and the polarizing plate. The first optical element is configured to redirect a fraction of the light propagating toward the non-pixel region in a first direction. The second optical element is disposed between the first optical element and the polarizing plate. The second optical element is configured to redirect the fraction of light propagating in the first direction toward the pixel region.

According to exemplary embodiments, a display device includes: a first substrate comprising a pixel region and a non-pixel region adjacent to the pixel region, the pixel region being configured to transmit incident light; a light shielding layer disposed on the first substrate and in association with the non-pixel region, the light shielding layer being configured to block incident light propagating in association with the non-pixel region; a first optical element disposed between the first substrate and the light shielding layer, the first optical element being configured to redirect, in a first direction, at least some of the light propagating in association with the non-pixel region; and a second optical element disposed between the first optical element and the light shielding layer, the second optical element being configured to redirect the at least some of the light propagating in the first direction to propagate in association with the pixel region.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS

Although exemplary embodiments are described in association with liquid crystal display (LCD) devices, it is contemplated that exemplary embodiments may be utilized in association with other or equivalent display devices, such as various self-emissive and/or non-self-emissive display technologies. For instance, self-emissive display devices may include organic light emitting displays (OLED), plasma display panels (PDP), etc., whereas non-self-emissive display devices may include electroluminescent (EL) displays, electrophoretic displays (EPD), electrowetting displays (EWD), etc.

FIG. 1is an exploded perspective view of a display device600, according to exemplary embodiments.

Referring toFIG. 1, a display device600may include a light providing assembly (e.g., backlight assembly)500and a display panel300. The backlight assembly500may be configured to emit light toward the display panel300. The display panel300may be configured to display an image using light emitted from the backlight assembly500. Although specific reference will be made to this implementation, it is also contemplated that the display device600may embody many forms and include multiple and/or alternative components. For example, it is contemplated that the components of the display device600may be combined, located in separate structures, and/or separate locations.

According to exemplary embodiments, the backlight assembly500may be utilized in association with a non-self-luminous implementation of display device600. It is contemplated, however, that exemplary embodiments may be utilized in association with self-luminous implementations of display device600. In this manner, the backlight assembly500may be omitted. This is described in more detail in the proceeding paragraphs. Further, although a specific structure of the backlight assembly500is shown, it is contemplated that any other suitable structure and/or light providing assembly may be utilized. For descriptive purposes, however, the backlight assembly500will be described in association with the illustrated exemplary embodiments.

As shown, the backlight assembly500may include a container580, a light-emitting unit80, a reflection plate570, a light guiding plate550, a mold frame530, a plurality of sheets540, and a cover member510. The container580may include a bottom portion585and a plurality of sidewalls581protruding (e.g., vertically extending) from the bottom portion585. In this manner, the container580may provide a space (or cavity region) configured to contain (or otherwise support) the light-emitting unit80, the reflection plate570, the light guiding plate550, and/or the plurality of sheets540.

According to exemplary embodiments, the light-emitting unit80may include a printed circuit board PB and a plurality of light-emitting packages (e.g., light emitting diode packages) LG mounted on (or otherwise coupled to) the printed circuit board PB. The light-emitting unit80may be provided adjacent to a side surface of the light guiding plate550, such as adjacent to a side surface of one or more of sidewalls581. In this manner, light emitted from the plurality of light-emitting diode packages LG may propagate towards the light guiding plate550and through a side surface thereof.

The light guiding plate550may be configured to guide light provided from the light-emitting unit80toward the display panel300. In exemplary embodiments, the light guiding plate550may include light guiding patterns (not shown) on a surface of the light guiding plate550, which may form, for instance, a concavo-convex structure. The light guiding patterns may be used to direct incident light toward the outside of the light guiding plate500.

The reflection plate570may include any suitable reflective material, such as, for instance, aluminum, etc., and may be disposed between the bottom portion585of container580and the light guiding plate550. In this manner, a fraction of the light provided by the light-emitting unit80that is not incident to the light guiding plate550may be reflected by the reflection plate570and redirected towards the light guiding plate550.

According to exemplary embodiments, the plurality of sheets540may be provided on the light guiding plate550. The plurality of sheets540may include at least one optical sheet configured to control an optical path of incident light. For example, the plurality of sheets540may include a diffusion sheet545, a prism sheet543, a protection sheet541, and/or the like. It is also contemplated that the plurality of sheets540may include any suitable number of the aforementioned sheets and/or any suitable number of other forms of sheets that may be utilized to control one or more aspects of incident light. The diffusion sheet545may include a lenticular pattern (not shown), and, thereby, may be configured to diffuse incident light propagating from the light guiding plate550. The prism sheet543may include a prism pattern (not illustrated), and, thereby, configured to improve frontal brightness of the display panel300. The protection sheet541may be configured to protect the display panel300and the prism sheet543.

The mold frame530may be mechanically, chemically, or otherwise engaged with the container580to support (or otherwise house) the reflection plate570, the light guiding plate550, and the plurality of sheets540. To this end, the cover member510may include a portion covering an edge of the display panel300and may be engaged with the container580. Further, the cover member510may be provided with an opening exposing a display region of the display panel300.

According to exemplary embodiments, the display panel300may be a liquid crystal display panel. In this manner, the display panel300may include a display substrate100, an opposite substrate200facing the display substrate100, and a liquid crystal layer (not shown) disposed between the display substrate100and the opposite substrate200. An exemplary liquid crystal layer is shown and described in more detail in association withFIG. 2B. A structure of the display panel300is described in more detail with reference toFIGS. 2A and 2B.

FIG. 2Ais an enlarged plan view of a portion of the display panel300ofFIG. 1, according to exemplary embodiments.FIG. 2Bis a sectional view of the display panel300ofFIG. 1taken along sectional line I-F. It is noted that the elements illustrated inFIG. 2Aprimarily form the display substrate100of the display panel300. This limited plan view has been provided to reduce the complexity of the drawing and to provide a better mechanism to the understanding of exemplary embodiments described herein.

Referring toFIGS. 2A and 2B, the display panel300may include the display substrate100and the opposite substrate200. The display substrate100may be disposed closer to the backlight assembly500than the opposite substrate200. In this manner, emitting lights ET1and ET2provided from the backlight assembly500may sequentially propagate through the display substrate100and the opposite substrate200to be emitted to the outside of the display panel300.

According to exemplary embodiments, the display substrate100may include a first substrate SUB1, which may be formed from any suitable material, such as, for instance, a transparent insulating material, e.g., glass, plastic, and/or the like. It is noted that the utilization of a transparent plastic substrate SUB1may provide for both transparency and flexibility characteristics. The first substrate SUB1may include a plurality of pixel regions (e.g., first to third pixel regions PA1, PA2, and PA3) and a plurality of non-pixel regions (e.g., first and second non-pixel regions N-PA1and N-PA2).

A plurality of gate lines GL, a plurality of data lines DL, a plurality of switching elements (e.g., first to third thin-film transistors TR1, TR2, and TR3), a plurality of pixel electrodes (e.g., first to third pixel electrodes PE1, PE2, and PE3), a plurality of first optical elements L1, a plurality of second optical elements L2, and a first polarizing plate10may be provided on the first substrate SUB1.

The plurality of gate lines GL may be provided on the first substrate SUB1to be electrically separated (or otherwise insulated) from the plurality of data lines DL. In exemplary embodiments, the plurality of gate lines GL and the plurality of data lines DL may be provided to cross each other, when viewed in a plan view. Each of the gate lines GL may be configured to deliver (or transmit) a gate signal, whereas each of the data lines DL may be configured to deliver a data signal.

Each of the first to third thin-film transistors TR1, TR2, and TR3may be electrically connected to a corresponding one of the first to third pixel electrodes PE1, PE2, and PE3. The first to third thin-film transistors TR1, TR2, and TR3are substantially similar and the first to third pixel electrodes PE1, PE2, and PE3are substantially similar, and, therefore, to avoid obscuring exemplary embodiments described herein, the first thin-film transistor TR1and the first pixel electrode PE1will be described below as representative of each of corresponding components previously mentioned.

According to exemplary embodiments, the first thin-film transistor TR1may include a gate electrode GE, an active pattern AP, a source electrode SE, and a drain electrode DE. The gate electrode GE may be electrically connected to one of the plurality of gate lines GL to receive a gate signal. The active pattern AP may include any suitable semiconductor material, which may be provided on the gate electrode GE. A first insulating layer21may be provided between the active pattern AP and the gate electrode GE.

As previously mentioned, the active pattern AP may include any suitable semiconductor material, such as, for example, amorphous or crystalline silicon. It is contemplated, however, that any other suitable material may be utilized in association with the active pattern AP. For example, the active pattern AP may include at least one of various oxide semiconductor materials, such as, for instance, indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), tin dioxide (SnO2), indium(III) oxide (In2O3), zinc stannate (Zn2SnO4), germanium oxide (Ge2O3), hafnium(IV) oxide (HfO2), etc., or compound semiconductor materials, such as, for instance, gallium arsenide (GaAs), gallium phosphide (GaP), indium phosphide (InP), etc. It is also contemplated that the semiconductor material may include any suitable semiconductor alloy with, for instance, an adjustable band gap, such as silicon germanium (Si1-xGex), indium gallium arsenide (InxGa1-xAs), etc.

The source electrode SE may be electrically connected to one of the data lines DL to receive a data signal. The source electrode SE may be provided on the active pattern AP. The drain electrode DE may be provided on the active pattern AP and may be spaced apart from the source electrode SE.

According to exemplary embodiments, a second insulating layer22may be provided to cover the plurality of thin-film transistors (e.g., thin-film transistors TR1, TR2, and TR3), and a third insulating layer23may be provided on the second insulating layer22. Although not shown, a contact hole may be formed to penetrate the second insulating layer22and the third insulating layer23. In this manner, the first pixel electrode PE1may be electrically connected to the drain electrode DE of the first thin-film transistor TR1through the contact hole. To this end, if the gate signal is applied to the gate electrode GE and the first thin-film transistor TR1is “turned on,” the data signal may be transmitted to the first pixel electrode PE1through the source electrode SE, the active pattern AP, and the drain electrode DE.

The plurality of first optical elements L1, an auxiliary layer30, and the plurality of second optical elements L2may be provided between the first polarizing plate10and the first substrate SUB1. The plurality of first optical elements L1may be positioned between the first substrate SUB1and the auxiliary layer30. The auxiliary layer30may be positioned between the plurality of first optical elements L1and the plurality of second optical elements L2. The plurality of second optical elements L2may be positioned between the first auxiliary layer30and the first polarizing plate10. Further, the plurality of first optical elements L1and the plurality of second optical elements L2may be alternatingly arranged with the auxiliary layer30disposed therebetween. For instance, a trough between adjacent first optical elements L1may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with an apex of a second optical element L2. To this end, a trough between adjacent second optical elements L2may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with an apex of a first optical element L1. To this end, a trough between adjacent second optical elements L2may be substantially aligned in association with a corresponding non-pixel area, such as the first non-pixel area N-PA1.

According to exemplary embodiments, each of the first optical elements L1may be shaped like a lens convexly protruding toward the first polarizing plate10, whereas each of the second optical elements L2may be shaped like a lens convexly protruding toward the first substrate SUB1. It is contemplated, however, that the first and second optical elements L1and L2may be formed in any other suitable manner, such as, for example, as shown inFIG. 5, where each of the first optical elements L1are shaped like a lens convexly protruding toward the first substrate SUB1, and each of the second optical elements L2are shaped like a lens convexly protruding toward the first polarizing plate10. Again, any other suitable arrangement may be utilized. Furthermore, the lens configurations of the first and second optical elements L1and L2may be formed in any suitable manner, such as, for example, in association with Fresnel formations, a saw-tooth formation, etc.

The auxiliary layer30may include any suitable highly transparent material, such as, for instance, silicon oxide (SiO). As seen in the sectional view ofFIG. 2B, the auxiliary layer30may have a curved bottom surface fitted to a profile of the first optical elements L1and a curved top surface fitted to a profile of the second optical elements L2.

According to exemplary embodiments, the first optical elements L1are substantially similar, and, therefore, to avoid obscuring exemplary embodiments described herein, the first optical element L1disposed in association with the first pixel region PA1, the first non-pixel region N-PA1, and the third pixel region PA3will be described as a representative one of the plurality of first optical elements L1. To this end, the second optical elements L2are substantially similar, and, therefore, to avoid obscuring exemplary embodiments described herein, the second optical element L2disposed in association with the first non-pixel region N-PA1, the first pixel region PA1, and the second non-pixel region N-PA2will be described as a representative one of the plurality of second optical elements L2.

As described above, if each of the first and second optical elements L1and L2is shaped like a lens, the first and second optical elements L1and L2may have a thickness that decreases with increasing distance from a center (e.g., optical axis). For example, if each of the first and second optical elements L1and L2has first and second thicknesses T1and T2respectively disposed near an edge portion and a center portion thereof, the second thickness T2may be greater than the first thickness T1. To this end, it is noted that an overall thickness of the second optical elements L2may be greater than the overall thickness of the first optical elements L1.

The first optical element L1may have a first refracting surface S1, which may span a portion of the first pixel region PA1, the first non-pixel region N-PA1, and at least a portion of the third pixel region PA3, when viewed in a plan view. In this manner, the first optical element L1may overlap a border between the first pixel region PA1and the first non-pixel region N-PA1and a border between the first non-pixel region N-PA1and the third pixel region PA3.

The second optical element L2may have a second refracting surface S2, which may span a portion of the first non-pixel region N-PA1, the first pixel region PA1, and a portion of the second non-pixel region N-PA2, when viewed in a plan view. In this manner, the second optical element L2may overlap a border between the first non-pixel region N-PA1and the first pixel region PA1and a border between the first pixel region PA1and the second non-pixel region N-PA2.

According to exemplary embodiments, the first refracting surface S1may have a curvature that is different from the curvature of the second refracting surface S2. It is contemplated, however, that exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto or thereby. For example, the curvature of the first refracting surface S1may be substantially equivalent to the curvature of the second refracting surface S2.

It is noted that when light crosses an interface between a first transmission medium having a first refractive index and a second transmission medium having a second refractive index higher than the first refractive index, the light is refracted at the interface between the first and second transmission media. If the light passes through an interface shaped like a refracting surface of a concave lens, the light may be expanded. If the light passes through an interface shaped like a refracting surface of a convex lens, the light may be condensed.

According to exemplary embodiments, if the first emitting light ET1propagates toward the first non-pixel region N-PA1and the auxiliary layer30has a refractive index higher than that of the first optical element L1, the first refracting surface S1may serve as a refracting surface of the concave lens. In this manner, the first emitting light ET1may be expanded by the first refracting surface S1to be a first refracted light RT1propagating in a direction that is rotated clockwise by a first angle a1(which may be an acute angle) with respect to a normal direction of the first substrate SUB1.

It is noted that when light crosses an interface between a first transmission medium having a first refractive index and a second transmission medium having a second refractive index lower than the first refractive index, the light is refracted at the interface between the first and second transmission media. If the light passes through an interface shaped like a refracting surface of a concave lens, the light may be condensed. If the light passes through an interface shaped like a refracting surface of a convex lens, the light may be expanded.

According to exemplary embodiments, if the auxiliary layer30has a refractive index greater than the refractive index of the second optical element L2, the second refracting surface S2may serve as a refracting surface of the concave lens. In this manner, the first refracted light RT1may be expanded by the second refracting surface S2to be a second refracted light RT2propagating in a direction that is rotated counter-clockwise by a second angle a2with respect to a propagation direction of the first refracted light RT1.

In exemplary embodiments, the first emitting light ET1propagating toward the first non-pixel region N-PA1may be refracted at the first refracting surface S1to be directed as the first refracted light RT1propagating toward the first pixel region PA1or toward an oblique direction with respect to the normal direction with respect to the first refracting surface S1. Further, as shown inFIG. 2B, the first and second optical lenses L1and L2may be provided in such a way that the first angle a1and the second angle a2are substantially equivalent to each other. In this manner, the second refracted light RT2may propagate toward the first pixel region PA1along the normal direction with respect to the first refracting surface S1.

If the display substrate100does not include the first optical element L1and the second optical element L2, the first emitting light ET1may propagate toward the first non-pixel region N-PA1, and, as such, it may not be used to display an image, e.g., it may be blocked by, for instance, a light shielding layer BM, which will be described in more detail in the proceeding paragraphs. By contrast, according to exemplary embodiments, the first and second optical elements L1and L2may be used to change the propagation direction of the first emitting light ET1toward the first pixel region PA1. To this end, the first emitting light ET1may be used to display an image, and, as such, it may be possible to increase the light efficiency of the light emitted from the backlight assembly500. Further, since the second refracted light RT2propagates parallel to the normal direction and may be emitted to the outside through the first pixel region PA1, the first pixel region PA1may have an improved frontal brightness.

As seen inFIG. 2B, the second emitting light ET2may pass through an interface between a pair of the first optical elements L1adjacent to each other (e.g., pass through a trough) and be incident to a central region (e.g., optical axis) of the second optical element L2. In this manner, the propagation direction of the second emitting light ET2may not be changed. To this end, the propagation direction of the second emitting light ET2may remain parallel to the normal direction with respect to the first reacting surface S1.

According to exemplary embodiments, the first polarizing plate10may be provided to face the first to third thin-film transistors TR1, TR2, and TR3and the first to third pixel electrodes PE1, PE2, and PE3. To this end, an interlayer insulating layer20may be disposed between the first polarizing plate10and the first insulating layer20. Further, the first polarizing plate10may be provided between the first substrate SUB1and the liquid crystal layer LC, and, thereby, configured to polarize light propagating from the backlight assembly500towards the liquid crystal layer LC.

The first polarizing plate10may include a plurality of grid polarizing layers15containing any suitable reflective material, e.g., any suitable reflective metal material. In exemplary embodiments, the first polarizing plate10may be configured to transmit a fraction of incident light depending on its polarization. Each of the grid polarizing layers15may longitudinally extend in (or substantially in) a first direction D1, e.g., a vertical direction. To this end, the grid polarizing layers15may be arranged so as to be spaced apart from each other in (or substantially) in a second direction D2, e.g., horizontal direction. If a pitch of the grid polarizing layers15is smaller than a wavelength of incident light incident, the grid polarizing layers15may serve as a wire grid polarizer or diffraction grating polarizer.

According to exemplary embodiments, the opposite substrate200may include a second substrate SUB2, a common electrode CE, a light-shielding layer BM, a color filter CF, and a second polarizing plate210. The second substrate SUB2may be formed from any suitable transparent substrate material, e.g., glass, plastic, etc., which may be similar to the transparent substrate material of the first substrate SUB1. The common electrode CE may be provided on the second substrate SUB2, and the common electrode CE may be provided to face the first to third pixel electrodes PE1, PE2, and PE3. In this manner, the liquid crystal layer LC may be disposed between the common electrode CE and the first to third pixel electrodes PE1, PE2, and PE3. In exemplary embodiments, the common electrode CE may be used in conjunction with one or more of the first to third pixel electrodes PE1, PE2, and PE3to produce an electric field, which may be utilized to control an orientation of liquid crystal molecules (not shown) of the liquid crystal layer LC.

The light-shielding layer BM may be provided on the second substrate SUB2to correspond to each of the non-pixel regions (e.g., the first and second non-pixel regions N-PA1and N-PA2). The color filter CF may be provided on the second substrate SUB2to correspond to each of the pixel regions (e.g., the first to third pixel regions PA1, PA2, and PA3). It is noted that the use of the color filters CF may enable the display device to display a color image.

According to exemplary embodiments, the second polarizing plate210may be disposed on a surface of the second substrate SUB2and, thereby, configured to polarize incident light propagating from the liquid crystal layer LC towards and through the second polarizing plate210. It is contemplated, however, that any suitable second polarizing plate210may be utilized. For example, the second polarizing plate210may be provided in the form of a wire grid polarizer (or diffraction grating polarizer), which may be similar to the first polarizing plate10.

FIGS. 3-19are respective sectional views of display devices including display panels, according to exemplary embodiments. It is noted that the display devices including the display panels ofFIGS. 3-17are substantially similar to the display device including the display panel ofFIGS. 1, 2A, and 2B. As such, to avoid obscuring exemplary embodiments described herein, primarily differences between these display devices will be described in the proceeding paragraphs.

Referring toFIG. 3, a display panel301may include a display substrate101and an opposite substrate200. The display substrate101may include a plurality of first optical elements L1_1, an auxiliary layer31, and a plurality of second optical elements L2_1.

As previously described in association withFIG. 2B, the plurality of first optical elements L1and the plurality of second optical elements L2were alternatingly arranged with respect to each other with the auxiliary layer30disposed therebetween. As seen inFIG. 3, however, each of the plurality of first optical elements L1_1may be provided to face a corresponding one of the plurality of second optical elements L2_1with the auxiliary layer31disposed therebetween. In this manner, an apex of a first optical element L1_1may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with a corresponding apex of a second optical element L2_1. To this end, a trough between adjacent first optical elements L1_1may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with a corresponding trough between adjacent second optical elements L2_1. Further, it is noted that an overall thickness of the second optical elements L2_1may be greater than the overall thickness of the first optical elements L1_1.

According to exemplary embodiments, each of the first optical elements L1_1may have a refractive index greater than the refractive index of the auxiliary layer31. Each of the second optical elements L2_may have a refractive index smaller than the refractive index of the auxiliary layer31. In this manner, the first refracting surface S1may serve as a refracting surface of a convex lens, and the second refracting surface S2may serve as a refracting surface of a concave lens. To this end, an emitting light ET may be refracted at the first refracting surface S1and the second refracting surface S2, so as to be redirected, and, thereby, propagated toward the first pixel region PA1in a direction parallel to the normal direction with respect to the first substrate SUB1.

Adverting toFIG. 4, a display panel302may include a display substrate102and an opposite substrate200. The display substrate102may include a plurality of first optical elements L1_2, an auxiliary layer32, and a plurality of second optical elements L2_2. The plurality of first optical elements L1_2and the plurality of second optical elements L2_2may be alternatingly arranged with the auxiliary layer32disposed therebetween. For instance, a trough between adjacent first optical elements L1may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with an apex of a second optical element L2. To this end, a trough between adjacent second optical elements L2may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with an apex of a first optical element L1. As opposed to the alignment configuration of the troughs disposed between adjacent second optical elements L2illustrated in association withFIG. 2B, a trough between adjacent first optical elements L1_2shown inFIG. 4may be substantially aligned in association with a corresponding non-pixel area, such as the first non-pixel area N-PA1. Further, it is noted that an overall thickness of the second optical elements L2_2may be greater than the overall thickness of the first optical elements L1_2.

According to exemplary embodiments, each of the first optical elements L1_2may have a refractive index greater than the refractive index of the auxiliary layer32, and each of the second optical elements L2_2may have a refractive index greater than refractive index of the auxiliary layer32. In this manner, the first refracting surface S1may serve as a refracting surface of a concave lens, and the second refracting surface S2may serve as a refracting surface of a convex lens. As such, an emitting light ET may be refracted at the first refracting surface S1and the second refracting surface S2, so as to be redirected, and, thereby, propagated toward the first pixel region PA1in a direction parallel to the normal direction with respect to the first substrate SUB1.

As seen inFIG. 5, a display panel303may include a display substrate103and the opposite substrate200. The display substrate103may include a plurality of first optical elements L1_3, a first auxiliary layer33, a plurality of second optical elements L2_3, and a second auxiliary layer53. The first auxiliary layer33may be disposed between the first substrate SUB1and the plurality of first optical elements L1_3, and the second auxiliary layer53may be disposed between the first polarizing plate10and the plurality of second optical elements L2_3. To this end, the plurality of second optical elements L2_3may be disposed directly on the plurality of first optical elements L1_3. Further, the plurality of first optical elements L1_3and the plurality of second optical elements L2_3maybe alternatingly arranged with respect to each other. In this manner, an apex of a first optical element L1_3may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with a corresponding apex of a second optical element L2_3. To this end, a trough between adjacent first optical elements L1_3may be disposed in association with a non-pixel region, such as the first non-pixel region N-PA1. Further, it is noted that an overall thickness of the first optical elements L1_3may be greater than the overall thickness of the second optical elements L2_3.

Each of the first optical elements L1_3may have a first refractive index, the first auxiliary layer33may have a second refractive index, the plurality of second optical elements L2_3may have a third refractive index, and the second auxiliary layer53may have a fourth refractive index. In exemplary embodiments, the first refractive index may be greater than the second refractive index and be smaller than the third refractive index. The third refractive index may be greater than the fourth refractive index.

According to exemplary embodiments, the first refracting surface S1may serve as a refracting surface of a convex lens, and the second refracting surface S2may serve as a refracting surface of a concave lens. In this manner, an emitting light ET may be refracted at the first refracting surface S1to be redirected as a first refracted light RT1, and the first refracted light RT1may be refracted at interface BS between the first and second optical elements L1_3and L2_3to be redirected as a second refracted light RT2. Further, the second refracted light RT2may be refracted at the second refracting surface S2to be redirected as a third refracted light RT3propagating toward the first pixel region PA1in a direction parallel to the normal direction with respect to the first substrate SUB1.

Referring toFIG. 6, a display panel304may include a display substrate104and the opposite substrate200. The display substrate104may include a plurality of first optical elements L1_4, an auxiliary layer34, and a plurality of second optical elements L2_4. The auxiliary layer34may be provided between the first substrate SUB1and the plurality of first optical elements L1_4. As opposed to the configuration illustrated in association withFIG. 2B, the display substrate104ofFIG. 6includes the second optical elements L2_4disposed directly on the first optical elements L1_4, such that no auxiliary layer is disposed between the second optical elements L2_4and the first optical elements L1_4. Further, it is noted that troughs between adjacent second optical elements L2_4may be disposed in association with corresponding non-pixel regions, such as the first non-pixel region N-PA1. To this end, apexes between adjacent first optical elements L1_4may also be disposed in association with corresponding non-pixel regions, such as the first non-pixel region N-PA1. In this manner, troughs between adjacent first optical elements L1_4may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with respective apexes of the second optical elements L2_4.

According to exemplary embodiments, the auxiliary layer34may have a refractive index greater than the refractive index of each of the first optical elements L1_4, and each of the first optical elements L1_4may have a refractive index greater than the refractive index of each of the second optical elements L2_4. In this manner, the first refracting surface S1may serve as a refracting surface of a convex lens, and the second refracting surface S2may serve as a refracting surface of a convex lens. As such, an emitting light ET may be refracted at the first refracting surface S1and the second refracting surface S2, so as to be redirected toward the first pixel region PA1and in a direction parallel to the normal direction with respect to the first substrate SUB1.

Adverting toFIG. 7, a display panel305may include a display substrate105and the opposite substrate200. The display substrate105may include a plurality of first optical elements L1_5, an auxiliary layer35, and a plurality of second optical elements L2_5. The auxiliary layer35may be provided between the first substrate SUB1and the plurality of first optical elements L1_5. In a manner substantially similar to the configuration illustrated in association withFIG. 6, the display substrate105ofFIG. 7includes the second optical elements L2_5disposed directly on the first optical elements L1_5, such that no auxiliary layer is disposed between the second optical elements L2_5and the first optical elements L1_5. Troughs between adjacent first optical elements L1_5may be disposed in association with corresponding non-pixel regions, such as the first non-pixel region N-PA1. To this end, apexes between adjacent second optical elements L2_5may also be disposed in association with corresponding non-pixel regions, such as the first non-pixel region N-PA1. In this manner, troughs between adjacent first optical elements L1_5may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with respective apexes of the second optical elements L2_5.

According to exemplary embodiments, each of the first optical elements L1_5may have a refractive index greater than the refractive index of the auxiliary layer35, and each of the first optical elements L1_5may have a refractive index that is smaller than the refractive index of each of the second optical elements L2_5. In this manner, the first refracting surface S1may serve as a refracting surface of a convex lens, and the second refracting surface S2may serve as a refracting surface of a convex lens. As such, an emitting light ET may be refracted at the first refracting surface S1and the second refracting surface S2, so as to be redirected and, thereby, propagated toward the first pixel region PA1in a direction parallel to the normal direction with respect to the first substrate SUB1.

As seen inFIG. 8, a display panel306may include a display substrate106and the opposite substrate200. The display substrate106may include a plurality of first optical elements L1_6, an auxiliary layer36, and a plurality of second optical elements L2_6. The auxiliary layer36may be provided between the plurality of first optical elements L1_6and the plurality of second optical elements L2_6. Each of the first optical elements L1_6may be provided to face a corresponding one of the second optical elements L2_6with the auxiliary layer36disposed therebetween. To this end, respective apexes of the first and second optical elements L1_6and L2_6may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with one another. Moreover, the respective apexes of the first and second optical elements L1_6and L2_6may be aligned in association with a corresponding non-pixel region, such as the first non-pixel region N-PA1. Further, it is noted that an overall thickness of the second optical elements L2_6may be greater than the overall thickness of the first optical elements L1_6.

According to exemplary embodiments, each of the first optical elements L1_6may have a refractive index smaller than the refractive index of the auxiliary layer36, and the auxiliary layer36may have a refractive index smaller than the refractive index of each of the second optical elements L1_6. In this manner, the first refracting surface S1may serve as a refracting surface of a concave lens, and the second refracting surface S2may serve as a refracting surface of a convex lens. To this end, an emitting light ET may be refracted at the first refracting surface S1and the second refracting surface S2, so as to be redirected and, thereby, propagated towards the first pixel region PA1in a direction parallel to the normal direction with respect to the first substrate SUB1.

Referring toFIG. 9, a display panel307may include a display substrate107and the opposite substrate200. The display substrate107may include a plurality of first optical elements L1_7, a first auxiliary layer37, a plurality of second optical elements L2_7, and a second auxiliary layer57. The first auxiliary layer37may be provided between the first substrate SUB1and the first optical elements L1_7, and the second auxiliary layer57may be provided between the first polarizing plate10and the second optical elements L2_7.

In exemplary embodiments, each of the first optical elements L1_7may have a refractive index greater than the refractive index of the first auxiliary layer37, and each of the first optical elements L1_7may have a refractive index smaller than the refractive index of each of the second optical elements L2_7. The second auxiliary layer57may have a refractive index greater than the refractive index of each of the second optical elements L2_7. To this end, respective troughs of the first and second optical elements L1_7and L2_7may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with one another, as well as respectively aligned in association with a corresponding non-pixel region, such as the first non-pixel region N-PA1. Further, it is noted that an overall thickness of the first optical elements L1_7may be greater than the overall thickness of the second optical elements L2_7.

According to exemplary embodiments, the first refracting surface S1may serve as a refracting surface of a convex lens, and the second refracting surface S2may serve as a refracting surface of a concave lens. As such, the emitting light ET may be refracted at the first refracting surface S1to be redirected as a first refracted light RT1, and the first refracted light RT1may be refracted at an interface BS between the first and second optical elements L1_7and L2_7to be redirected as a second refracted light RT2. Further, the second refracted light RT2may be refracted at the second refracting surface S2to be redirected as a third refracted light RT3propagating towards the first pixel region PA1in a direction parallel to the normal direction with respect to the first substrate SUB1.

Adverting toFIG. 10, a display panel308may include a display substrate108and the opposite substrate200. The display substrate108may include a plurality of first optical elements L1_8, a first auxiliary layer38, a plurality of second optical elements L2_8, and a second auxiliary layer58. The first auxiliary layer38may be provided between the first substrate SUB1and the first optical elements L1_8, and the second auxiliary layer58may be provided between the first polarizing plate10and the second optical elements L2_8. To this end, respective apexes of the first and second optical elements L1_8and L2_8may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with one another, as well as respectively aligned in association with a corresponding non-pixel region, such as the first non-pixel region N-PA1. Further, it is noted that an overall thickness of the first optical elements L1_8may be greater than the overall thickness of the second optical elements L2_8.

In exemplary embodiments, each of the first optical elements L1_8may have a refractive index smaller than the refractive index of the first auxiliary layer38, and each of the first optical elements L1_8may have a refractive index smaller than the refractive index of each of the second optical elements L2_8. The second auxiliary layer58may have a refractive index smaller than the refractive index of each of the second optical elements L2_8. To this end, the first refracting surface S1may serve as a refracting surface of a convex lens, and the second refracting surface S2may serve as a refracting surface of a concave lens. In this manner, an emitting light ET may be refracted at the first refracting surface S1, the interface BS, and the second refracting surface S2, so as to be redirected and, thereby, propagated towards the first pixel region PA1in a direction parallel to the normal direction with respect to the first substrate SUB1.

As seen inFIG. 11, a display panel309may include a display substrate109and the opposite substrate200. The display substrate109may include a plurality of first optical elements L1_9, a first auxiliary layer39, a plurality of second optical elements L2_9, and a second auxiliary layer59. The first auxiliary layer39may be provided between the first optical elements L1_9and the second optical elements L2_9, and the second auxiliary layer59may be provided between the second optical elements L2_9and the first polarizing plate10. Further, it is noted that troughs between adjacent second optical elements L2_9may be disposed in association with corresponding non-pixel regions, such as the first non-pixel region N-PA1. To this end, apexes between adjacent first optical elements L1_9may also be disposed in association with corresponding non-pixel regions, such as the first non-pixel region N-PA1. In this manner, troughs between adjacent first optical elements L1_9may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with respective apexes of the second optical elements L2_9.

According to exemplary embodiments, each of the first optical elements L1_9may have a refractive index smaller than the refractive index of the first auxiliary layer39, and the first auxiliary layer39may have a refractive index smaller than the refractive index of each of the second optical elements L2_9. The second auxiliary layer59may have a refractive index greater than the refractive index of each of the second optical elements L2_9. In this manner, the first refracting surface S1may serve as a refracting surface of a concave lens, and the second refracting surface S2may also serve as a refracting surface of a concave lens. As such, an emitting light ET may be refracted at the first refracting surface S1, the interface BS, and the second refracting surface S2, so as to be redirected and, thereby, propagated towards the first pixel region PA1in a direction parallel to the normal direction with respect to the first substrate SUB1.

Referring toFIG. 12, a display panel310may include a display substrate110and the opposite substrate200. The display substrate110may include a plurality of first optical elements L1_10, a first auxiliary layer40, a plurality of second optical elements L2_10, and a second auxiliary layer60. The first auxiliary layer40may be provided between the first and second optical elements L1_10and L2_10, and the second auxiliary layer60may be provided between the second optical elements L2_10and the first polarizing plate10. Further, it is noted that troughs between adjacent first optical elements L1_10may be disposed in association with corresponding non-pixel regions, such as the first non-pixel region N-PA1. To this end, apexes between adjacent second optical elements L1_10may also be disposed in association with corresponding non-pixel regions, such as the first non-pixel region N-PA1. In this manner, troughs between adjacent first optical elements L1_10may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with respective apexes of the second optical elements L2_10.

According to exemplary embodiments, each of the first optical elements L1_10may have a refractive index greater than the refractive index of the first auxiliary layer40, and the first auxiliary layer40may have a refractive index smaller than the refractive index of each of the second optical elements L2_10. The second auxiliary layer60may have a refractive index smaller than the refractive index of each of the second optical elements L2_10. In this manner, the first refracting surface S1may serve as a refracting surface of a concave lens, and the second refracting surface S2may also serve as a refracting surface of a concave lens. As such, an emitting light ET may be refracted at the first refracting surface S1, the interface BS, and the second refracting surface S2, so as to be redirected and, thereby, propagated towards the first pixel region PA1in a direction parallel to the normal direction with respect to the first substrate SUB1.

Adverting toFIG. 13, a display panel311may include a display substrate111and the opposite substrate200. The display substrate111may include a plurality of first optical elements L1_11, a first auxiliary layer41, a plurality of second optical elements L2_11, and a second auxiliary layer61. The first auxiliary layer41may be provided between the first optical elements L1_11and the second optical elements L2_11, and the second auxiliary layer61may be provided between the second optical elements L2_11and the first polarizing plate10. Further, respective troughs between the first and second optical elements L1_11and L2_11may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with one another, as well as respectively aligned in association with a corresponding non-pixel region, such as the first non-pixel region N-PA1.

According to exemplary embodiments, each of the first optical elements L1_11may have a refractive index greater than the refractive index of the first auxiliary layer41, and the first auxiliary layer41may have a refractive index smaller than the refractive index of each of the second optical elements L2_11. The second auxiliary layer59may have a refractive index greater than the refractive index of each of the second optical elements L2_9. In this manner, the first refracting surface S1may serve as a refracting surface of a concave lens, and the second refracting surface S2may also serve as a refracting surface of a concave lens. As such, an emitting light ET may be refracted at the first refracting surface S1, the interface BS, and the second refracting surface S2, so as to be redirected and, thereby, propagated towards the first pixel region PA1in a direction parallel to the normal direction with respect to the first substrate SUB1.

As seen inFIG. 14, a display panel312may include a display substrate112and the opposite substrate200. The display substrate112may include a plurality of first optical elements L1_12, a first auxiliary layer42, a plurality of second optical elements L2_12, and a second auxiliary layer62. The first auxiliary layer42may be provided between the first optical elements L1_12and the second optical elements L2_12, and the second auxiliary layer62may be provided between the second optical elements L2_12and the first polarizing plate10. To this end, respective apexes of the first and second optical elements L1_12and L2_12may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with one another, as well as respectively aligned in association with a corresponding non-pixel region, such as the first non-pixel region N-PA1.

According to exemplary embodiments, each of the first optical elements L1_12may have a refractive index smaller than the refractive index of the first auxiliary layer42, and the first auxiliary layer42may have a refractive index smaller than the refractive index of each of the second optical elements L2_12. The second auxiliary layer62may have a refractive index smaller than the refractive index of each of the second optical elements L2_12. In this manner, the first refracting surface S1may serve as a refracting surface of a concave lens, and a second refracting surface S2may also serve as a refracting surface of a concave lens. As such, an emitting light ET may be refracted at the first refracting surface S1, the interface BS, and the second refracting surface S2, so as to be redirected and, thereby, propagated towards the first pixel region PA1in a direction parallel to the normal direction with respect to the first substrate SUB1.

Referring toFIG. 15, a display panel313may include a display substrate113and the opposite substrate200. The display substrate113may include a plurality of first optical elements L1_13, an auxiliary layer43, and a plurality of second optical elements L2_13. The auxiliary layer43may be provided between the first substrate SUB1and the first optical elements L1_13. As opposed to the configuration illustrated in association withFIG. 2B, the display substrate113ofFIG. 15includes the second optical elements L2_13disposed directly on the first optical elements L1_13, such that no auxiliary layer is disposed between the second optical elements L2_13and the first optical elements L1_13. Further, it is noted that troughs between respective adjacent first optical elements L1_13and respective adjacent second optical elements L2_13may be disposed in association with corresponding non-pixel regions, such as the first non-pixel region N-PA1. In this manner, the respective troughs between adjacent first optical elements L1_13and between adjacent second optical elements L2_13may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with one another, and the respective apexes between adjacent first optical elements L1_13and between adjacent second optical elements L2_13may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with one another. Moreover, an overall thickness of the second optical elements L2_13may be greater than the overall thickness of the first optical elements L1_13.

According to exemplary embodiments, the auxiliary layer43may have a refractive index smaller than the refractive index of each of the first optical elements L1_13, and each of the first optical elements L1_13may have a refractive index greater than the refractive index of each of the second optical elements L2_13. In this manner, the first refracting surface S1may serve as a refracting surface of a convex lens, and the second refracting surface S2may also serve as a refracting surface of a convex lens. As such, an emitting light ET may be refracted at the first refracting surface S1and the second refracting surface S2, so as to be redirected and, thereby, propagated towards the first pixel region PA1in a direction parallel to the normal direction with respect to the first substrate SUB1.

Adverting toFIG. 16, a display panel314may include a display substrate114and the opposite substrate200. The display substrate114may include a plurality of first optical elements L1_14, an auxiliary layer44, and a plurality of second optical elements L2_14. The auxiliary layer44may be provided between the first substrate SUB1and the first optical elements L1_14. As opposed to the configuration illustrated in association withFIG. 2B, the display substrate114ofFIG. 16includes the second optical elements L2_14disposed directly on the first optical elements L1_14, such that no auxiliary layer is disposed between the second optical elements L2_14and the first optical elements L1_14. Further, it is noted that apexes between respective adjacent first optical elements L1_14and respective adjacent second optical elements L2_14may be disposed in association with corresponding non-pixel regions, such as the first non-pixel region N-PA1. In this manner, the respective troughs between adjacent first optical elements L1_14and between adjacent second optical elements L2_14may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with one another, and the respective apexes between adjacent first optical elements L1_14and between adjacent second optical elements L2_14may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with one another. Moreover, an overall thickness of the second optical elements L2_14may be greater than the overall thickness of the first optical elements L1_14.

According to exemplary embodiments, the auxiliary layer44may have a refractive index greater than the refractive index of each of the first optical elements L1_14, and each of the first optical elements L1_14may have a refractive index smaller than the refractive index of each of the second optical elements L2_14. In this manner, the first refracting surface S1may serve as a refracting surface of a convex lens, and the second refracting surface S2may also serve as a refracting surface of a convex lens. As such, an emitting light ET may be refracted at the first refracting surface S1and the second refracting surface S2, so as to be redirected and, thereby, propagated towards the first pixel region PA1in a direction parallel to the normal direction with respect to the first substrate SUB1.

As seen inFIG. 17, a display panel315may include a display substrate115and the opposite substrate200. The display substrate115may include a plurality of first optical elements L1_15, an auxiliary layer45, and a plurality of second optical elements L2_15. The auxiliary layer45may be provided between the first optical elements L1_15and the second optical elements L2_15.

InFIG. 2B, each of the first and second optical elements L1and L2may be shaped like a lens, and, as such, each of the first and second refracting surfaces S1and S2may have a curved (or otherwise arcuate) surface. InFIG. 17, however, the first refracting surface S1of the first optical elements L1_15may be a flat, angled surface, and the second refracting surface S2of the second optical elements L2_15may be a flat, angled surface. In this manner, the first and second refracting surfaces S1and S2may resemble saw tooth surfaces.

Further, it is noted that troughs between adjacent second optical elements L2_15may be disposed in association with corresponding non-pixel regions, such as the first non-pixel region N-PA1. To this end, apexes between adjacent first optical elements L1_15may also be disposed in association with corresponding non-pixel regions, such as the first non-pixel region N-PA1. In this manner, troughs between adjacent first optical elements L1_15may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with respective apexes of the second optical elements L2_15. Moreover, an overall thickness of the second optical elements L2_15may be greater than the overall thickness of the first optical elements L1_15.

Adverting toFIG. 18, a display panel316may include a display substrate116and the opposite substrate200. The display substrate116may include a plurality of first optical elements L1_15, a first auxiliary layer46, a plurality of second optical elements L2_16, and a second auxiliary layer63. The first auxiliary layer46may be disposed between the first substrate SUB1and the plurality of first optical elements L1_16, and the second auxiliary layer63may be disposed between the first polarizing plate10and the plurality of second optical elements L2_16.

Each of the first optical elements L1_16may have a first refractive index, the first auxiliary layer46may have a second refractive index, the plurality of second optical elements L2_16may have a third refractive index, and the second auxiliary layer63may have a fourth refractive index. In exemplary embodiments, the first refractive index may be greater than the second refractive index and may be smaller than the third refractive index. The third refractive index may be greater than the fourth refractive index.

According to exemplary embodiments, the first refracting surface S1may serve as a refracting surface of a convex lens, and the second refracting surface S2may serve as a refracting surface of a concave lens. In this manner, an emitting light ET may be refracted at the first refracting surface S1to be redirected as a first refracted light RT1, and the first refracted light RT1may be refracted at interface BS between the first and second optical elements L1_16and L2_16to be redirected as a second refracted light RT2. Further, the second refracted light RT2may be refracted at the second refracting surface S2to be redirected as a third refracted light RT3propagating toward the first pixel region PA1in a direction parallel to the normal direction with respect to the first substrate SUB1.

As previously described in association withFIG. 5, the plurality of first optical elements L1_3and the plurality of second optical elements L2_3were alternatingly arranged with respect to each other. In this manner, a trough between adjacent first optical elements L1_3as disposed in association with a non-pixel region, such as the first non-pixel region N-PA1. As seen inFIG. 18, however, a trough between adjacent second optical elements L2_16may be disposed in association with a non-pixel region, such as the first non-pixel region N-PA1. As inFIG. 5, the plurality of first optical elements L1_16and the plurality of second optical elements L2_16maybe alternatingly arranged with respect to each other, such that an trough of a first optical element L1_16may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with a corresponding apex of a second optical element L2_16.

As seen inFIG. 19, a display panel317may include a display substrate117and the opposite substrate200. The display substrate117may include a plurality of first optical elements L1_17, an auxiliary layer47, and a plurality of second optical elements L2_17. The auxiliary layer47may be provided between the first optical elements L1_17and the second optical elements L2_17.

InFIG. 4, each of the first and second optical elements L1_2and L2_2may be shaped like a lens, and, as such, each of the first and second refracting surfaces S1and S2may have a curved (or otherwise arcuate) surface. InFIG. 19, however, the first refracting surface S1of the first optical elements L1_17may be a flat, angled surface, and the second refracting surface S2of the second optical elements L2_17may be a flat, angled surface. In this manner, the first and second refracting surfaces S1and S2may resemble saw tooth surfaces.

Further, it is noted that apexes between adjacent second optical elements L2_17may be disposed in association with corresponding non-pixel regions, such as the first non-pixel region N-PA1. To this end, troughs between adjacent first optical elements L1_17may also be disposed in association with corresponding non-pixel regions, such as the first non-pixel region N-PA1. In this manner, troughs between adjacent first optical elements L1_17may be vertically (or substantially vertically) aligned with respective apexes of the second optical elements L2_17. Moreover, an overall thickness of the second optical elements L2_17may be greater than the overall thickness of the first optical elements L1_17.

Although not illustrated, each of the first and second optical elements ofFIGS. 3-16 and 18may be replaced with corresponding first and second optical elements including flat, angled surfaces as opposed to the respectively illustrated arcuate surfaces. As previously mentioned, the respective surfaces may additionally or alternatively be configured as a Fresnel lens or any other suitable shape to achieve one or more of the light redirecting effects described herein.

Although not illustrated, when exemplary embodiments are utilized in association with self-emissive display devices, at least the first and second optical elements may be utilized to direct self-emitted light from a non-pixel region through a pixel region to increase light efficiency and/or frontal brightness. In this manner, at least the first and second optical elements may be disposed between a substrate including a light emitting component of the associated display device and the light shielding layer BM. It is noted that the backlight assembly500may be omitted in such embodiments.

According to exemplary embodiments, a fraction of emitting light propagating toward a non-pixel region may be redirected by first and second optical elements, and, thereby, be emitted through a pixel region of a corresponding display panel. As such, the redirected fraction of the emitting light may be used to facilitate the display of an image via the display panel. This may increase the light efficiency associated with the backlight assembly. Further, since the light redirected by the first and second optical elements may be emitted in a direction normal to a substrate surface, a frontal brightness of the display panel may be increased.