Patent ID: 12204224

MODES OF THE INVENTION

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the spirit and scope of the present invention is not limited to a part of the embodiments described, and may be implemented in various other forms, and within the spirit and scope of the present invention, one or more of the elements of the embodiments may be selectively combined and replaced.

In addition, unless expressly otherwise defined and described, the terms used in the embodiments of the present invention (including technical and scientific terms) may be construed the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs, and the terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries may be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art.

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

Further, in describing the elements of the embodiments of the present invention, the terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used. These terms are only used to distinguish the elements from other elements, and the terms are not limited to the essence, order, or order of the elements.

In addition, when an element is described as being “connected”, or “coupled” to another element, it may include not only when the element is directly “connected” to, or “coupled” to other elements, but also when the element is “connected”, or “coupled” by another element between the element and other elements.

Further, when described as being formed or disposed “on (over)” or “under (below)” of each element, the “on (over)” or “under (below)” may include not only when two elements are directly connected to each other, but also when one or more other elements are formed or disposed between two elements.

Furthermore, when expressed as “on (over)” or “under (below)”, it may include not only the upper direction but also the lower direction based on one element.

Hereinafter, an optical path control member according to an embodiment will be described with reference to drawings. The optical path control member described below relates to a switchable optical path control member driven in various modes according to electrophoretic particles moving by applying a voltage.

Referring toFIGS.1to4, an optical path control member1000according to an embodiment may include a first substrate110, a second substrate120, a first electrode210, a second electrode220, and an optical conversion unit300.

The first substrate110may support the first electrode210. The first substrate110may be rigid or flexible.

In addition, the first substrate110may be transparent. For example, the first substrate110may include a transparent substrate capable of transmitting light.

The first substrate110may include glass, plastic, or a flexible polymer film. For example, the flexible polymer film may be made of any one of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyether sulfone (PES), cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), triacetylcellulose (TAC) film, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film, polyimide (PI) film, and polystyrene (PS), which is only an example, but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

In addition, the first substrate110may be a flexible substrate having flexible characteristics.

Further, the first substrate110may be a curved or bended substrate. That is, the optical path control member including the first substrate110may also be formed to have flexible, curved, or bent characteristics. Accordingly, the optical path control member according to the embodiment may be changed to various designs.

The first substrate110may extend in a first direction1A, a second direction2A, and a third direction3A.

In detail, the first substrate110may include the first direction1A corresponding to a length or width direction of the first substrate110, a second direction2A extending in a direction different from the first direction1A and corresponding to the length or width direction of the first substrate110, and a third direction3A extending in a direction different from the first direction1A and the second direction2A and corresponding to a thickness direction of the first substrate110.

For example, the first direction1A may be defined as the length direction of the first substrate110, the second direction2A may be defined as the width direction of the first substrate110perpendicular to the first direction1A, and the third direction3A may be defined as the thickness direction of the first substrate110. Alternatively, the first direction1A may be defined as the width direction of the first substrate110, the second direction2A may be defined as the length direction of the first substrate110perpendicular to the first direction1A, and the third direction3A may be defined as the thickness direction of the first substrate110.

Hereinafter, for convenience of description, the first direction1A will be described as the length direction of the first substrate110, the second direction2A will be described as the width direction of the first substrate110, and the third directions3A will be described as the thickness direction of the first substrate110.

The first electrode210may be disposed on one surface of the first substrate110. In detail, the first electrode210may be disposed on an upper surface of the first substrate110. That is, the first electrode210may be disposed between the first substrate110and the second substrate120.

The first electrode210may include a transparent conductive material. For example, the first electrode210may include a conductive material having a light transmittance of about 80% or more. For example, the first electrode210may include a metal oxide such as indium tin oxide, indium zinc oxide, copper oxide, tin oxide, zinc oxide, titanium oxide, etc.

The first electrode210may have a thickness of 0.05 μm to 2 μm.

Alternatively, the first electrode210may include various metals to realize low resistance. For example, the first electrode210may include at least one metal of chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), silver (Ag), molybdenum (Mo). Gold (Au), titanium (Ti), and alloys thereof.

Referring toFIG.3, the first electrode210may be disposed on the entire surface of one surface of the first substrate110. In detail, the first electrode210may be disposed as a surface electrode on one surface of the first substrate110. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the first electrode210may be formed of a plurality of pattern electrodes having a uniform pattern such as a mesh or stripe shape.

For example, the first electrode210may include a plurality of conductive patterns. In detail, the first electrode210may include a plurality of mesh lines crossing each other and a plurality of mesh openings formed by the mesh lines.

Accordingly, even though the first electrode210includes a metal, the first electrode210is not visually recognized from the outside, so that visibility may be improved. In addition, the light transmittance is increased by the openings, so that the brightness of the optical path control member according to the embodiment may be improved.

The second substrate120may be disposed on the first substrate110. In detail, the second substrate120may be disposed on the first electrode210on the first substrate110.

The second substrate120may include a material capable of transmitting light. The second substrate120may include a transparent material. The second substrate120may include a material the same as or similar to that of the first substrate110described above.

For example, the second substrate120may include glass, plastic, or a flexible polymer film. For example, the flexible polymer film may be made of any one of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyether sulfone (PES), cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), triacetylcellulose (TAC) film, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film, polyimide (PI) film, and polystyrene (PS). This is only an example, but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

In addition, the second substrate120may be a flexible substrate having flexible characteristics.

Further, the second substrate120may be a curved or bended substrate. That is, the optical path control member including the second substrate120may also be formed to have flexible, curved, or bent characteristics. Accordingly, the optical path control member according to the embodiment may be changed to various designs.

The second substrate120may also extend in the first direction1A, the second direction2A, and the third direction3A in the same manner as the first substrate110described above.

In detail, the second substrate120may include the first direction1A corresponding to a length or width direction of the second substrate120, the second direction2A extending in a direction different from the first direction1A and corresponding to the length or width direction of the second substrate120, and the third direction3A extending in the direction different from the first direction1A and the second direction2A and corresponding to the thickness direction of the second substrate120.

For example, the first direction1A may be defined as the length direction of the second substrate120, the second direction2A may be defined as the width direction of the second substrate120perpendicular to the first direction1A, and the third direction3A may be defined as the thickness direction of the second substrate120.

Alternatively, the first direction1A may be defined as the width direction of the second substrate120, the second direction2A may be defined as the length direction of the second substrate120perpendicular to the first direction1A, and the third direction3A may be defined as the thickness direction of the second substrate120.

Hereinafter, for convenience of description, the first direction1A will be described as the length direction of the second substrate120, the second direction2A the second direction2A will be described as the width direction of the second substrate120, and the third directions3A will be described as the thickness direction of the second substrate120.

The second electrode220may be disposed on one surface of the second substrate120. In detail, the second electrode220may be disposed on a lower surface of the second substrate120. That is, the second electrode220may be disposed on one surface of the second substrate120in which the second substrate120and the first substrate110face each other. That is, the second electrode220may be disposed to face the first electrode210on the first substrate110. That is, the second electrode220may be disposed between the first electrode210and the second substrate120.

The second electrode220may include a material the same as or similar to that of the first substrate110described above.

The second electrode220may include a transparent conductive material. For example, the second electrode220may include a conductive material having a light transmittance of about 80% or more. As an example, the second electrode220may include a metal oxide such as indium tin oxide, indium zinc oxide, copper oxide, tin oxide, zinc oxide, titanium oxide, etc.

The second electrode220may have a thickness of about 0.1 μm to about 0.5 μm.

Alternatively, the second electrode220may include various metals to realize low resistance. For example, the second electrode220may include at least one metal of chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), silver (Ag), molybdenum (Mo). gold (Au), titanium (Ti), and alloys thereof.

Referring toFIG.4, the second electrode220may be disposed on the entire surface of one surface of the second substrate120. In detail, the second electrode220may be disposed as a surface electrode on one surface of the second substrate120. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the second electrode220may be formed of a plurality of pattern electrodes having a uniform pattern such as a mesh or stripe shape.

For example, the second electrode220may include a plurality of conductive patterns. In detail, the second electrode220may include a plurality of mesh lines crossing each other and a plurality of mesh openings formed by the mesh lines.

Accordingly, even though the second electrode220includes a metal, the second electrode220is not visually recognized from the outside, so that visibility may be improved. In addition, the light transmittance is increased by the openings, so that the brightness of the optical path control member according to the embodiment may be improved.

The first substrate110and the second substrate120may have sizes corresponding to each other. The first substrate110and the second substrate120may have sizes the same as or similar to each other.

In detail, a first length extending in the first direction1A of the first substrate110may have a size the same as or similar to a second length L2extending in the first direction1A of the second substrate120.

For example, the first length and the second length may have a size of 300 mm to 400 mm.

In addition, a first width extending in the second direction2A of the first substrate110may have a size the same as or similar to a second width extending in the second direction2A of the second substrate120.

For example, the first width and the second width may have a size of 150 mm to 200 mm.

In addition, a first thickness extending in the third direction3A of the first substrate110may have a size the same as or similar to a second thickness extending in the third direction3A of the second substrate120.

For example, the first thickness and the second thickness may have a size of 30 μm to 200 μm.

Referring toFIG.1, the first substrate110and the second substrate120may be disposed to be misaligned from each other.

In detail, the first substrate110and the second substrate120may be disposed at positions misaligned from each other in the first direction1A. In detail, the first substrate110and the second substrate120may be disposed so that side surfaces of the substrates are misaligned from each other.

Accordingly, the first substrate110may be disposed to protrude in one direction in the first direction1A, and the second substrate120may be disposed to protrude in the other direction in the first direction1A.

That is, the first substrate110may include a first protrusion protruding in one direction in the first direction1A, and the second substrate110may include a second protrusion protruding in the other direction in the first direction1A.

Accordingly, the optical path control member1000may include a region where the first electrode210is exposed on the first substrate110and a region where the second electrode220is exposed under the second substrate120.

That is, the first electrode210disposed on the first substrate110may be exposed at the first protrusion, and the second electrode220disposed under the second substrate120may be exposed at the second protrusion.

The first electrode210and the second electrode220exposed at the protrusions may be connected to an external printed circuit board through a connection portion that will be described below.

Alternatively, referring toFIG.2, the first substrate110and the second substrate120may be disposed at positions corresponding to each other. In detail, the first substrate110and the second substrate120may be disposed such that side surfaces thereof correspond to each other.

Accordingly, the first substrate110may be disposed to protrude in one direction in the first direction1A, and the second substrate120may also be disposed in one direction in the first direction1A, that is, may be disposed to protrude in the same direction as that of the first substrate110.

That is, the first substrate110may include a first protrusion protruding in one direction in the first direction1A, and the second substrate may also include a second protrusion protruding in one direction in the first direction1A.

That is, the first protrusion and the second protrusion may protrude in the same direction.

Accordingly, the optical path control member1000may include a region where the first electrode210is exposed on the first substrate110and a region where the second electrode220is exposed under the second substrate120.

That is, the first electrode210disposed on the first substrate110may be exposed at the first protrusion, and the second electrode220disposed under the second substrate120may be exposed at the second protrusion.

The first electrode210and the second electrode220exposed at the protrusions may be connected to an external printed circuit board through a connection portion that will be described below.

The optical conversion unit300may be disposed between the first substrate110and the second substrate120. In detail, the optical conversion unit300may be disposed between the first electrode210and the second electrode220.

Functional layers may be disposed between at least one of between the optical conversion unit300and the first substrate110or between the optical conversion unit300and the second substrate120.

In detail, a buffer layer410that facilitates adhesion between the optical conversion unit300and the first substrate110may be disposed between the optical conversion unit300and the first substrate110. In addition, an adhesive layer420that adheres the second electrode220and the optical conversion unit300may be disposed between the optical conversion unit300and the second substrate120.

The optical conversion unit300may include a plurality of partitioning parts and accommodation parts. Optical conversion particles that move by applying a voltage may be disposed in the accommodation part, and light transmission characteristics of the optical path control member may be changed by the optical conversion particles.

The optical path control member may include a sealing part.

Referring toFIGS.5to7, a sealing part500may be disposed on an outer surface of the optical path control member.

The sealing part500may be disposed while covering the outer surface of the optical path control member. In detail, the sealing part500may be disposed while partially covering the outer surface of the optical path control member. That is, the sealing part500may be disposed while extending from the first substrate110toward the second substrate120and partially covering the outer surface of the optical path control member.

The optical path control member1000may include a plurality of side surfaces. In detail, the optical path control member1000may include side surfaces extending in the first direction1A and facing each other and side surfaces extending in the second direction2A and facing each other.

The sealing part500may be disposed to surround the side surfaces of the optical path control member extending in the first direction1A. For example, the sealing part500may be disposed to surround the side surfaces of the optical path control member in which the accommodation part320in which the optical conversion particles are disposed is exposed from the optical conversion unit300.

In detail, as shown inFIG.5, the sealing part500may be partially disposed on the side surface of the optical path control member while covering the accommodation part320exposed from the side surface of the optical path control member.

Alternatively, as shown inFIG.6, the sealing part500may be entirely disposed on the side surface of the optical path control member while covering the accommodation part320exposed from the side surface of the optical path control member.

In detail, the accommodation part320may be disposed to extend from the optical conversion unit300in the second direction2A with respect to the first substrate110and the second substrate120. That is, the plurality of accommodation parts320may be disposed to extend in the second direction2A while being spaced apart from each other.

Accordingly, the accommodation part320may be exposed in both lateral directions of the first direction1A of the optical conversion unit300. The sealing part500may be disposed while covering the accommodation part320exposed from the optical conversion unit300to protect the optical conversion particles inside the exposed accommodation part.

That is, the sealing part500may be disposed on a part of a side surface of the optical conversion unit300, a part of a lower surface of the first substrate110, and a part of an upper surface of the second substrate120. In other words, the sealing part500may be disposed on a part of the side surface of the optical conversion unit300, a part of the lower surface of the first substrate110, and a part of the upper surface of the second substrate120while surrounding the exposed accommodation part of the optical conversion unit.

The sealing part500may include a resin material having a viscosity of 300 cP or more.

Alternatively, referring toFIG.7, the sealing part500may be disposed to surround side surfaces of the optical path controlling member extending in the first direction1A and side surfaces of the optical path controlling member extending in the second direction2A.

Accordingly, at least one side surface of the side surfaces in the second direction of the optical conversion unit300may also be entirely surrounded by the sealing part500.

Accordingly, in the optical path control member according to the embodiment, the outer surface of the optical conversion unit300may be entirely sealed by the sealing part500. That is, it is possible to prevent the penetration of impurities, such as moisture and air, which may penetrate into the accommodation part from the side surface of the optical conversion unit300in the second direction.

That is, during a manufacturing process of the optical path control member, thicknesses of the side surfaces of the optical conversion unit300in the second direction may be different from each other due to a tolerance, and a width of any one of the side surfaces in the second direction is formed to be small, so that impurities that may permeate into the accommodation part may permeate into the accommodation part through the partitioning part.

In the optical path control member according to the embodiment, by disposing the sealing part also on the side surface of the optical conversion unit in the second direction, it is possible to effectively prevent the penetration of impurities according to a size of the partitioning part.

Meanwhile, although it is illustrated that the sealing part is disposed on the outer surface of the optical path member inFIGS.5to7, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the sealing part may be disposed on an upper surface of the optical conversion unit300.

Referring toFIGS.8and9, unlikeFIGS.1and2, the first substrate110and the second substrate120may have different sizes.

In detail, a first length extending in the first direction1A of the first substrate110may have a size the same as or similar to a second width L2extending in the first direction1A of the second substrate120within a size range of 300 mm to 400 mm.

In addition, a first width extending in the second direction2A of the first substrate110and a second width extending in the second direction of the second substrate120may have different sizes within a size range of 150 mm to 200 mm.

For example, the second width extending in the second direction of the second substrate120may be smaller than a size of the first width extending in the second direction2A of the first substrate110.

Accordingly, both ends of the optical conversion unit300in the second direction may be disposed to be spaced apart from the second substrate120.

A sealing part500and a dam part600which are respectively disposed on the optical conversion unit may be disposed at both ends of the optical conversion unit300in the second direction.

When the optical conversion material is injected into the accommodation part, the dam part600may determine an injection part and an outlet part, and the sealing part500may seal the injection part and the outlet part after the optical conversion material is injected.

That is, the sealing part500may be disposed on the partitioning part310while filling the accommodation part320of the optical conversion unit300at both ends of the optical conversion unit300in the second direction.

Referring toFIGS.10and11, the optical conversion unit300may include a partitioning part310and an accommodation part320.

The partitioning part310may be defined as a partitioning part dividing the accommodation part. That is, the partitioning part310may transmit light as a barrier region dividing a plurality of accommodation parts. In addition, the accommodation part320may be defined as a variable region where the accommodation part320is switched to a light blocking part and a light transmitting part by applying a voltage.

The partitioning part310and the accommodation part320may be alternately disposed with each other. The partitioning part310and the accommodation part320may be disposed to have different widths. For example, a width of the partitioning part310may be greater than that of the accommodation part320.

The partitioning part310and the accommodation part320may be alternately disposed with each other. In detail, the partitioning part310and the accommodation part320may be alternately disposed with each other. That is, each of the partitioning parts310may be disposed between the accommodation parts320adjacent to each other, and each of the accommodation parts320may be disposed between the adjacent partitioning parts310.

The partitioning part310may include a transparent material. The partitioning part310may include a material that may transmit light.

The partitioning part310may include a resin material. For example, the partitioning part310may include a photo-curable resin material. As an example, the partitioning part310may include a UV resin or a transparent photoresist resin. Alternatively, the partitioning part310may include urethane resin or acrylic resin.

The partitioning part310may transmit light incident on any one of the first substrate110and the second substrate120toward another substrate.

For example, inFIGS.10and11, light may be emitted from the first substrate110by a light source disposed under the first substrate110, and the light may be incident toward the second substrate120. In this case, the partitioning part310may transmit the light, and the transmitted light may move toward the second substrate120.

The accommodation part320may include the dispersion liquid320aand the optical conversion particles320b. In detail, the accommodation part320may be filled by injecting the dispersion liquid320a. A plurality of optical conversion particles320bmay be dispersed in the dispersion liquid320a.

The dispersion liquid320amay be a material for dispersing the optical conversion particles320b. The dispersion liquid320amay include a transparent material. The dispersion liquid320amay include a non-polar solvent. In addition, the dispersion liquid320amay include a material capable of transmitting light. For example, the dispersion liquid320amay include at least one of a halocarbon-based oil, a paraffin-based oil, and isopropyl alcohol.

The optical conversion particles320bmay be disposed to be dispersed in the dispersion liquid320a. In detail, the plurality of optical conversion particles320bmay be disposed to be spaced apart from each other in the dispersion liquid320a.

The optical conversion particles320bmay include a material capable of absorbing light. That is, the optical conversion particles320bmay be light absorbing particles. The optical conversion particles320bmay have a color. For example, the optical conversion particles320bmay have a black-based color. As an example, the optical conversion particles320bmay include carbon black.

The optical conversion particles320bmay have a polarity by charging surfaces thereof. For example, the surfaces of the optical conversion particles320bmay be charged with a negative (−) charge. Accordingly, the optical conversion particles320bmay move toward the first electrode210or the second electrode220by applying a voltage.

The light transmittance of the accommodation part320may be changed by the optical conversion particles320b. In detail, the accommodation part320may be switched to the light blocking part and the light transmitting part by changing the light transmittance due to the movement of the optical conversion particles320b. That is, the accommodation part320may change the transmittance of light passing through the accommodation part320by dispersion liquid and aggregation of the optical conversion particles320bdisposed inside the dispersion liquid320a.

For example, the optical path control member according to the embodiment may be converted from a first mode to a second mode or from the second mode to the first mode by a voltage applied to the first electrode210and the second electrode220.

In detail, in the optical path control member according to the embodiment, the accommodation part320becomes the light blocking part in the first mode, and light of a specific angle may be blocked by the accommodation part320. That is, a viewing angle of the user viewing from the outside is narrowed, so that the optical path control member may be driven in a privacy mode.

In addition, in the optical path control member according to the embodiment, the accommodation part320becomes the light transmitting part in the second mode, and in the optical path control member according to the embodiment, light may be transmitted through both the partitioning part310and the accommodation part320. That is, the viewing angle of the user viewing from the outside may be widened, so that the optical path control member may be driven in a share mode.

Switching from the first mode to the second mode, that is, the conversion of the accommodation part320from the light blocking part to the light transmitting part may be realized by movement of the optical conversion particles320bof the accommodation part320. That is, the optical conversion particles320bmay have a charge on the surfaces thereof and may move toward the first electrode or the second electrode by applying a voltage according to characteristics of the charge. That is, the optical conversion particles320bmay be electrophoretic particles

In detail, the accommodation part320may be electrically connected to the first electrode210and the second electrode220.

In this case, when a voltage is not applied to the optical path control member from the outside, the optical conversion particles320bof the accommodation part320are uniformly dispersed in the dispersion liquid320a, and the accommodation part320may block light by the optical conversion particles. Accordingly, in the first mode, the accommodation part320may be driven as the light blocking part.

Alternatively, when a voltage is applied to the optical path control member from the outside, the optical conversion particles320bmay move. For example, the optical conversion particles320bmay move toward one end or the other end of the accommodation part320by a voltage transmitted through the first electrode210and the second electrode220. That is, the optical conversion particles320bmay move from the accommodation part320toward the first electrode210or the second electrode220.

In detail, when a voltage is applied to the first electrode210and/or the second electrode220, an electric field is formed between the first electrode210and the second electrode220, and the optical conversion particles320bcharged with the negative charge may move toward a positive electrode of the first electrode210and the second electrode220using the dispersion liquid320aas a medium.

That is, when the voltage is applied to the first electrode210and/or the second electrode220, as shown inFIG.10, the optical conversion particles320bmay move toward the first electrode210in the dispersion liquid320a. That is, the optical conversion particles320bmay move in one direction, and the accommodation part320may be driven as the light transmitting part.

Alternatively, when the voltage is not applied to the first electrode210and/or the second electrode220, as shown inFIG.11, the optical conversion particles320bmay be uniformly dispersed in the dispersion liquid320ato drive the accommodation part320as the light blocking part.

Accordingly, the optical path control member according to the embodiment may be driven in two modes according to a user's surrounding environment. That is, when the user requires light transmission only at a specific viewing angle, the accommodation part is driven as the light blocking part, or in an environment in which the user requires high brightness, a voltage may be applied to drive the accommodation part as the light transmitting part.

Therefore, since the optical path control member according to the embodiment may be implemented in two modes according to the user's requirement, the optical path control member may be applied regardless of the user's environment.

As described above, the dispersion liquid320ain which the optical conversion particles320bare dispersed may be disposed inside the accommodation part320.

The dispersion liquid320amay be disposed in each accommodation part in the direction from the injection part toward the outlet part using a capillary injection method. In this case, according to characteristics of the dispersion liquid320aand characteristics of the inside of the accommodation part320in contact with the dispersion liquid320aand the adhesive layer420, filling properties of the injected dispersion liquid may be changed.

That is, when the inside of the accommodation part320in contact with the dispersion liquid and the adhesive layer420has hydrophobicity, the dispersion liquid320ahaving hydrophobicity may have improved filling properties inside the accommodation part.

Therefore, in the optical path control member according to the embodiment, by controlling permittivity and composition of the dispersion liquid320aand controlling a contact angle between the dispersion liquid and the inside of the accommodation part320and the adhesive layer420so that the characteristics of the accommodation part and the adhesive layer. Has hydrophobicity similar to that of the dispersion liquid, thereby improving the filling properties of the dispersion liquid.

Referring toFIGS.12to14, the dispersion liquid320adisposed in the accommodation part320may be disposed in direct contact with a bottom surface BS of the accommodation part320, an inner surface IS of the accommodation part320, and a lower surface of the adhesive layer420.

The dispersion liquid of the optical path control member according to the embodiment may have different contact angles on the inner surface IS of the accommodation part320and the lower surface of the adhesive layer420.

In detail, when the dispersion liquid320ais in contact with the bottom surface BS of the accommodation part320and the inner surface IS of the accommodation part, the dispersion liquid320amay have a first contact angle θ1. In addition, when the dispersion liquid320ais in contact with the lower surface of the adhesive layer420, the dispersion liquid320amay have a second contact angle θ2.

Here, the first contact angle θ1may be defined as an angle between a surface of a droplet of the dispersion liquid and the bottom and inner surfaces of the accommodation part when the dispersion liquid is dropped on the bottom and inner surfaces of the accommodation part.

In addition, the second contact angle θ2may be defined as an angle between a surface of a droplet of the dispersion liquid and the lower surface of the adhesive layer when the dispersion liquid is dropped on the lower surface of the adhesive layer.

The first contact angle θ1and the second contact angle θ2may be 20° or less.

In detail, the first contact angle θ1may be 20° or less. In more detail, the first contact angle θ1may be 5° to 20°. In more detail, the first contact angle θ1may be 8° to 15°.

When the first contact angle θ1has a contact angle exceeding 20°, the bottom surface BS of the accommodation part320in contact with the dispersion liquid320aand the inner surface IS of the accommodation part have a property close to hydrophilicity, and thus the dispersion liquid320ahaving hydrophobicity may not be easily filled in the accommodation part.

In addition, when the first contact angle θ1is formed to be less than 5°, a weight % of the optical conversion particles320bdispersed inside the dispersion liquid320amay be changed, and thus the optical conversion characteristics of the optical path control member may be deteriorated.

In addition, the second contact angle θ2may be 20° or less. In more detail, the second contact angle θ2may be 3° to 15°. In more detail, the second contact angle θ2may be 5° to 10°.

When the second contact angle θ2has a contact angle exceeding 20°, the adhesive layer in contact with the dispersion liquid320ahas a property close to hydrophilicity, and thus the dispersion liquid320ahaving hydrophobicity may not be easily filled in the accommodation part by the adhesive layer.

In addition, when the second contact angle θ2is formed to be less than 3°, a weight % of the optical conversion particles320bdispersed inside the dispersion liquid320amay be changed, and thus the optical conversion characteristics of the optical path control member may be deteriorated.

That is, since both the first contact angle θ1of the bottom surface BS of the accommodation part320and the inner surface IS of the accommodation part that are in contact with the dispersion liquid320ahaving hydrophobicity and the second contact angle θ2of the lower surface of the adhesive layer420that is in contact with the dispersion liquid320aare formed to be 20° or less, the bottom surface BS of the accommodation part320, the inner surface IS of the accommodation part, and the lower surface of the adhesive layer420may have hydrophobicity. That is, the bottom surface BS of the accommodation part320, the inner surface IS of the accommodation part, and the lower surface of the adhesive layer420may also have hydrophobicity similar to that of the dispersion liquid302a.

In addition, the first contact angle θ1and the second contact angle θ2may be different. In detail, a size of the first contact angle θ1may be greater than a size of the second contact angle θ2. In addition, a difference θ1-θ2between the first contact angle θ1and the second contact angle θ2may be 10° or less. In detail, the difference θ1-θ2between the first contact angle θ1and the second contact angle θ2may be 1° to 5°. In more detail, the difference θ1-θ2between the first contact angle θ1and the second contact angle θ2may be 3° to 5°.

By forming the difference between the first contact angle θ1and the second contact angle θ2within the above range, filling properties and filling uniformity of the dispersion liquid filled inside the accommodation part may be improved.

In detail, it is possible to reduce a difference between a filling speed of the dispersion liquid in contact with the accommodation part while having the first contact angle and a filling speed of the dispersion liquid in contact with the adhesive layer while having the second contact angle. Therefore, the filling speed of the dispersion liquid filled inside the accommodation part may be filled at a similar speed regardless of a type of surfaces with which the dispersion liquid is in contact.

Therefore, it is possible to improve the filling uniformity of the plurality of accommodation parts, and it is possible to improve the filling properties and the filling speed in each accommodation part.

The dispersion liquid320amay include a solvent, optical conversion particles320b, and a dispersant. In order to control the sizes of the first contact angle θ1and the second contact angle θ2, a composition ratio of the dispersion liquid320amay be controlled at a certain ratio.

In detail, the dispersion liquid320amay include a solvent including at least one of a halocarbon-based oil, a paraffin-based oil, and isopropyl alcohol.

The solvent may be included in an amount of 89.5 wt % to 94.7 wt % with respect to a total weight of the dispersion liquid.

In addition, the optical conversion particles320bmay include carbon black particles. The optical conversion particles320bmay be included in an amount of 1 wt % to 3.5 wt % with respect to the total weight of the dispersion liquid.

In addition, the dispersion liquid may include a dispersant capable of uniformly dispersing the optical conversion particles in the solvent.

The dispersant may be included in an amount of 1 wt % to 1.8 wt % with respect to the total weight of the dispersion liquid.

When the solvent, the optical conversion particles320b, and the dispersant are out of the weight % range, the first contact angle of the dispersion liquid and the accommodation part and the second contact angle of the dispersion liquid and the adhesive layer increase, and accordingly, the accommodation part and the adhesive layer is close to hydrophilicity, and thus the filling properties of the dispersion liquid having hydrophobicity may be deteriorated.

In addition, the solvent may have permittivity of a certain size. In detail, the permittivity of the solvent may be less than 7.5. In more detail, the permittivity of the solvent may be 1 to less than 7.5. In more detail, the permittivity of the solvent may be 2 to 3.

When the permittivity of the solvent is 7.5 or more, even though the composition ratio is satisfied, the first contact angle of the dispersion liquid and the accommodation part and the second contact angle of the dispersion liquid and the adhesive layer increase by the permittivity, and accordingly, the accommodation part and the adhesive layer is close to hydrophilicity, and thus the filling properties of the dispersion liquid having hydrophobicity may be deteriorated.

Meanwhile, the accommodation part may be disposed in a different shape in consideration of driving characteristics and the like.

Referring toFIGS.15and16, in an optical path control member according to another embodiment, both ends of an accommodation part320may be disposed in contact with a buffer layer410and an adhesive layer420unlikeFIGS.10and11.

For example, a lower portion of the accommodation part320may be disposed in contact with the buffer layer410, and an upper portion of the accommodation part320may be disposed in contact with the adhesive layer420.

Accordingly, a distance between the accommodation part320and the first electrode210may be reduced, so that the voltage applied from the first electrode210may be smoothly transmitted to the accommodation part320.

Accordingly, a moving speed of the optical conversion particles320binside the accommodation part320may be improved, and thus the driving characteristics of the optical path control member may be improved.

In addition, referring toFIGS.17and18, in the optical path control member according to the embodiment, unlikeFIGS.10and11, the accommodation part320may be disposed while having a constant inclination angle θ.

In detail, referring toFIGS.17and18, the accommodation part320may be disposed to have an inclination angle θ of greater than 0° to less than 90° with respect to the first substrate110. In detail, the accommodation part320may extend upward while having an inclination angle θ of greater than 0° to less than 90° with respect to one surface of the first substrate110.

Accordingly, when the optical path control member is used together with a display panel, moire caused by an overlapping phenomenon between a pattern of the display panel and the accommodation part320of the optical path control member may be alleviated, thereby improving user visibility.

The optical path control member according to the embodiment may control the contact angle of the dispersion liquid disposed inside the accommodation part.

In detail, the contact angle between the inner surface and the bottom surface of the accommodation part in contact with the dispersion liquid in the accommodation part and the lower surface of the adhesive layer may be controlled to a size of 20° or less.

Accordingly, the inner surface and the bottom surface of the accommodation part and the lower surface of the adhesive layer having a contact angle of 20° or less may have properties close to hydrophobicity. Therefore, when the dispersion liquid having hydrophobicity is filled inside the accommodation part, the dispersion liquid is filled through contact surfaces having similar properties, so that the filling speed and filling properties of the dispersion liquid may be improved.

In addition, the dispersion liquid may control the difference between the first contact angle with the inner surface and the bottom surface of the accommodation part and the second contact angle with the adhesive layer in a certain size range. Accordingly, a difference between a speed in a region in contact with the accommodation part and a speed in a region in contact with the adhesive layer may be reduced.

Therefore, since the dispersion liquid may be filled in the accommodation part at a uniform speed, the uniformity of filling of the dispersion liquid may be improved.

In addition, the dispersion liquid may have a certain composition, and the solvent of the dispersion liquid may have permittivity in a certain size range. Accordingly, by controlling the composition of the dispersion liquid and the permittivity of the solvent, the first contact angle and the second contact angle may have a size of 20° or less.

That is, in the optical path control member according to the embodiment, it is possible to have improved characteristics and reliability by controlling contact angles of surfaces in contact with the dispersion liquid to improve the filling properties in the accommodation part and to improve the filling uniformity of the plurality of accommodation parts.

Hereinafter, an optical path control member according to another embodiment will be described with reference toFIGS.19and20.

Referring toFIGS.19and20, an optical conversion material may be disposed in the accommodation part320. In detail, an optical conversion material having a constant viscosity may be disposed inside the accommodation part320.

The optical conversion material may include a solvent320a, optical conversion particles320b, and a liquid crystal320c. The optical conversion particles320band the liquid crystal320cmay be dispersed in the solvent320a.

That is, the accommodation part320may be filled by injecting with the solvent320ain which the optical conversion particles320band the liquid crystal320care dispersed.

The solvent320amay be a material that disperses the optical conversion particles320band the liquid crystal320c. The dispersion liquid320amay include a transparent material. The solvent320amay include a material capable of transmitting light.

The solvent320amay include a polar solvent or a non-polar solvent.

For example, the solvent320amay include a material having an aromatic ring to have polarity. For example, the solvent320amay include a polar hydrocarbon having an aromatic ring.

Alternatively, the solvent320amay include at least one of non-polar halocarbon-based oil, paraffin-based oil, and isopropyl alcohol.

The optical conversion particles320bmay be disposed to be dispersed in the solvent320a. In detail, the plurality of optical conversion particles320bmay be disposed to be spaced apart from each other in the solvent320a.

The liquid crystal320cmay be dispersed in the solvent320a.

As the optical conversion material includes the liquid crystal320c, the optical conversion material may have a low viscosity. Accordingly, the moving speed of the optical conversion particles320bdispersed in the solvent320amay be improved. That is, it is possible to improve the moving speed of the optical conversion particles320bin inverse proportion to the viscosity of the solvent.

Accordingly, the moving speed of the optical conversion particles320bmay be increased, thereby improving a driving speed of the optical path controlling member.

In addition, as the optical conversion material includes the liquid crystal320c, the optical conversion material may have low volatility.

That is, in case of a general low-viscosity material, there is a problem that an evaporation rate is increased due to a decrease in a flash point, but the optical conversion material may prevent the problem by the liquid crystal320cwhile implementing low viscosity, thereby having low volatility while implementing low viscosity.

In addition, when a voltage is applied to the optical path control member, the liquid crystal320cmay facilitate movement of the moving optical conversion particles320b.

Referring toFIG.19, when a voltage is not applied to the optical path control member, the liquid crystal320cmay be arranged in an irregular direction in the solvent320a.

However, referring toFIG.20, when a voltage is applied to the optical path control member, the liquid crystal320cmay be arranged in a regular direction in the solvent320a. That is, a length direction of the liquid crystal320cmay be arranged in a direction in which the first electrode210and the second electrode220face each other.

Accordingly, when the optical conversion particles320bmove toward the first electrode210or the second electrode220, the optical conversion particles320bmay easily move by the liquid crystal320carranged in a movement direction of the optical conversion particles320b, thereby improving the driving speed of the optical conversion particles.

The liquid crystal320cmay be included in a constant weight % range with respect to a total weight of the optical conversion material. The liquid crystal320cmay be included in an amount of 10 wt % or less with respect to the total weight of the optical conversion material. In detail, the liquid crystal320cmay be included in an amount of 1 wt % to 10 wt % with respect to the total weight of the optical conversion material. In more detail, the liquid crystal320cmay be included in an amount of 1 wt % to 5 wt % with respect to the total weight of the optical conversion material.

When the liquid crystal320cis included in an amount exceeding 10 wt % with respect to the total amount of the optical conversion material, a phenomenon in which the liquid crystals320care aggregated with each other in the solvent320amay occur.

In particular, when the solvent320aincludes a non-polar solvent, the liquid crystals320chaving polarity may not be dispersed and may be aggregated with each other.

The optical conversion particles320band the liquid crystal320cmay be included in different weight % ranges with respect to the total weight of the optical conversion material.

For example, the weight % of the optical conversion particles320bwith respect to the total weight of the optical conversion material may be greater than or smaller than the weight % of the liquid crystal320cwith respect to the total weight of the optical conversion material.

In detail, a ratio of the weight % of the optical conversion particles320bwith respect to the total weight of the optical conversion material and the weight % of the liquid crystal320cwith respect to the total weight of the optical conversion material may be 1:0.2 to 1:3.

When the ratio of the weight % of the optical conversion particles320bwith respect to the total weight of the optical conversion material and the weight % of the liquid crystal320cwith respect to the total weight of the optical conversion material is less than 1:0.2, a content of the liquid crystal in the optical conversion material is reduced, so that the viscosity of the optical conversion material may be increased, and thus the driving speed of the optical path controlling member may be lowered.

In addition, when the ratio of the weight % of the optical conversion particles320bwith respect to the total weight of the optical conversion material and the weight % of the liquid crystal320cwith respect to the total weight of the optical conversion material exceeds 1:3, an effect of improving the driving speed may be insignificant compared to an amount in which the content of the liquid crystal in the optical conversion material is increased, and the liquid crystals may be agglomerated with each other, and thus the driving characteristics of the optical path control member may be deteriorated.

Meanwhile, as described above, the solvent320amay have a polarity. When the solvent320ahas a polarity, dispersibility of the liquid crystal320cdisposed in the solvent320amay be improved.

That is, since both the solvent320aand the liquid crystal320chave polarity, the aggregation of the liquid crystals320cwith each other in the solvent320amay be minimized.

A polar magnitude of the solvent320aand a polar magnitude of the liquid crystal320cmay be different from each other. In detail, the polar magnitude of the solvent320amay be smaller than the polar magnitude of the liquid crystal320c.

A difference between the polar magnitude of the solvent320aand the polar magnitude of the liquid crystal320cmay be 0.08 to 0.8.

When the difference between the polar magnitude of the solvent320aand the polar magnitude of the liquid crystal320cis less than 0.08, the moving speed of the optical conversion material in the solvent may be reduced due to the increase in the polar magnitude of the solvent. In addition, when the difference between the polar magnitude of the solvent320aand the polar magnitude of the liquid crystal320cexceeds 0.8, the liquid crystal may be aggregated with each other in the solvent due to a polarity difference between the solvent and the liquid crystal.

Hereinafter, a method of manufacturing the optical path control member according to the embodiment will be described with reference toFIGS.21to28. A method of manufacturing the optical path control member to be described below will be mainly described with respect to a case in which the first substrate and the second substrate have the same size as shown inFIGS.1and2.

Referring toFIG.21, a first substrate110and an electrode material for forming a first electrode are prepared. Then, the first electrode may be formed by coating or depositing the electrode material on one surface of the first substrate. In detail, the electrode material may be formed on the entire surface of the first substrate110. Accordingly, the first electrode210formed as a surface electrode may be formed on the first substrate110.

Subsequently, referring toFIG.22, a resin layer350may be formed by coating a resin material on the first electrode210. In detail, the resin layer350may be formed by applying a urethane resin or an acrylic resin on the first electrode210.

In this case, before disposing the resin layer350, a buffer layer410may be additionally disposed on the first electrode210. In detail, by disposing the resin layer350on the buffer layer410after disposing the buffer layer410having good adhesion to the resin layer350on the first electrode210, it is possible to improve the adhesion of the resin layer350.

For example, the buffer layer410may include an organic material including a lipophilic group such as —CH—, an alkyl group, etc. Having good adhesion to the electrode and a hydrophilic group such as —NH, —OH, —COOH, etc. Having a good adhesion to the resin layer410.

The resin layer350may be disposed on a partial region of the first substrate110. That is, the resin layer350may be disposed in an area smaller than that of the first substrate110. Accordingly, a region where the resin layer350is not disposed and the first electrode210is exposed may be formed on the first substrate110. In addition, when the buffer layer410is disposed on the first electrode210, a region where the buffer layer410is exposed may be formed.

Subsequently, referring toFIG.23, the resin layer350may be patterned to form a plurality of partitioning parts310and a plurality of accommodation parts320in the resin layer350. In detail, an engraved portion may be formed in the resin layer350to form an engrave-shaped accommodation part320and the emboss-shaped partitioning part310between the engraved portions.

Accordingly, an optical conversion unit300including the partitioning part310and the accommodation part320may be formed on the first substrate110.

In addition, the buffer layer410exposed on the first electrode210may be removed to expose the first electrode210in a region where the first substrate110protrudes.

Subsequently, referring toFIG.24, a second electrode and an electrode material for forming a second substrate120and are prepared. Then, the second electrode may be formed by coating or depositing the electrode material on one surface of the second substrate. In detail, the electrode material may be formed on the entire surface of the second substrate120. Accordingly, the second electrode220formed as a surface electrode may be formed on the second substrate120.

A size of the second substrate120may be smaller than that of the first substrate110. In addition, the size of the second substrate120may be smaller than that of the resin layer350.

In detail, a size of a second length extending in a first direction of the second substrate120may be greater than a third length extending in the first direction of the resin layer350, and a size of a second width extending in a second direction of the second substrate120may be smaller than a size of a third width extending in the second direction of the resin layer350.

Subsequently, referring toFIG.25, an adhesive layer420may be formed by coating an adhesive material on the second electrode220. In detail, a light-transmitting adhesive layer capable of transmitting light may be formed on the second electrode220. For example, the adhesive layer420may include an optical transparent adhesive layer OCA.

The adhesive layer420may be disposed on a partial region of the optical conversion unit300. That is, the adhesive layer420may be disposed in an area smaller than that of the optical conversion unit300. Accordingly, a region where the adhesive layer410is not disposed and the optical conversion unit300is exposed may be formed on the optical conversion unit300.

Subsequently, referring toFIG.26, the first substrate110and the second substrate120may be adhered. In detail, the second substrate120may be disposed on the optical conversion unit300, and the second substrate120and the optical conversion unit300may be adhered through the adhesive layer420disposed under the second substrate120.

The optical conversion unit300and the second substrate120may be sequentially stacked in the thickness direction of the first substrate110, the optical conversion unit300, and the second substrate120.

In this case, since the second substrate120is disposed in a size smaller than the size of the resin layer350, a plurality of partitioning parts310and accommodation parts320may be exposed in a region where the second substrate120is not disposed on the optical conversion unit300.

In detail, since the size of the second width extending in the second direction of the second substrate120is smaller than the size of the third width extending in the second direction of the resin layer350, the plurality of partitioning parts310and the accommodation part320may be exposed in an end region of at least one of one end and the other end facing in a width direction of the resin layer350.

Subsequently, an optical conversion material380may be injected between the partitioning parts310, that is, the accommodation parts320. In detail, an optical conversion material in which light absorbing particles such as carbon black are dispersed in an electrolyte solvent including a paraffinic solvent and the like may be injected between the partitioning parts, that is, the accommodation parts320. That is, the optical conversion material380including the above-described dispersion liquid may be injected into the accommodation part.

For example, after disposing a dam extending in a length direction of the optical conversion unit300on the accommodation part and the partitioning part of the optical conversion unit300on which the second substrate120is not disposed, the electrolyte solvent may be injected into the accommodation part320by a capillary injection method between the dam and a side surface of the optical conversion unit300.

Subsequently, referring toFIG.27, one optical path control member may be manufactured by cutting the optical conversion unit300. In detail, the optical conversion unit300may be cut in the length direction of the optical conversion unit300. That is, the optical conversion unit300, the buffer layer410under the optical conversion unit300, the first electrode210, and the first substrate110may be cut along the dotted line shown inFIG.22. A plurality of optical path control members A and B may be formed by the cutting process, andFIG.23is a view showing one of the plurality of optical path control members.

In detail, the optical conversion unit300may be cut so that the side surfaces of the first substrate110, the second substrate120, and the optical conversion unit300in the width direction may be disposed on the same plane or both ends of the second substrate in the second direction are disposed on a cross-section perpendicular to both ends of the optical conversion unit in the second direction.

Accordingly, both ends of the second substrate120, the second electrode220, or the adhesive layer420in the second direction and both ends of the optical conversion unit300in the second direction may be disposed on the same plane.

That is, the both ends of the adhesive layer420in the second direction and the both ends of the optical conversion unit300in the second direction may be connected to each other.

Alternatively, the both ends of the second substrate120, the second electrode220, or the adhesive layer420in the second direction may be disposed more outside than the both ends of the optical conversion unit300in the second direction according to an error during the process.

Subsequently, the buffer layer410disposed on the first substrate110and/or the adhesive layer420disposed under the second substrate120may be partially removed to form a connection portion in which the electrode is exposed. In detail, when the buffer layer410is disposed on the first electrode where the optical conversion unit300is not disposed on an upper surface of the first substrate110, a first connection portion211may be formed on the first substrate110by removing a part of the first buffer layer410to expose the first electrode210or by not disposing the buffer layer410on the first electrode on which the optical conversion unit300is not disposed from the beginning. In addition, when the adhesive layer420is disposed on the second electrode where the optical conversion unit300is not disposed on a lower surface of the second substrate120, a second connection portion221may be formed under the second substrate120by removing a part of the adhesive layer420or by not disposing the adhesive layer on the second electrode on which the optical conversion unit300is not disposed during the adhesive process.

A printed circuit board or a flexible printed circuit board may be connected to the connection portions through an anisotropic conductive film (ACF) or the like, and the printed circuit board may be connected to an external power source to apply a voltage to the optical path control member.

Subsequently, referring toFIG.28, a sealing part500may be disposed through a sealing material. In detail, the sealing part500may be disposed in contact with each of side surfaces extending in the first direction, each of side surfaces extending in the second direction of the optical path control member, and upper and lower portions of the optical path control member.

Alternatively, the sealing part500may be disposed in contact with each of the side surfaces extending in the first direction of the optical path controlling member and the upper and lower portions of the optical path controlling member.

Accordingly, by sealing the accommodation part exposed to the outside by the sealing part500, that is, the dispersion liquid in which the optical conversion particles are dispersed from the outside, denaturation of the optical conversion particles due to external moisture, oxygen, or the like may be prevented.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail through the filling properties of the dispersion liquid of the optical path control member according to Examples and Comparative Examples. Such Examples are merely illustrative in order to describe the present invention in more detail. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the Examples.

Example 1

After disposing a first electrode on a first substrate, a resin layer was formed on the first electrode. In this case, the resin layer included an acrylate-based resin.

Then, the resin layer was patterned to form an optical conversion unit including a partitioning part and an accommodation part between the partitioning parts on the resin layer.

Next, after a second electrode was disposed on a second substrate, an adhesive layer was disposed on the second electrode, and the second electrode and the optical conversion unit were adhered.

Then, after forming a dam spaced apart from one end and the other end of the accommodation part, an optical conversion material was injected through a space between the dam and the accommodation part.

In this case, the optical conversion material included a solvent, carbon black, and a dispersant.

Then, a first contact angle θ1between contact surfaces of the optical conversion material and the accommodation part and a second contact angle θ2between the optical conversion material and the adhesive layer were measured.

Example 2

After an optical path control member was manufactured in the same manner as in Example 1 except that a composition ratio of the optical conversion material was different as shown in Table 1, the first contact angle θ1between contact surfaces of the optical conversion material and the accommodation part and the second contact angle θ2between the optical conversion material and the adhesive layer were measured.

Example 3

After the optical path control member was manufactured in the same manner as in Example 1 except that the composition ratio of the optical conversion material was different as shown in Table 1, the first contact angle θ1between the contact surfaces of the optical conversion material and the accommodation part and the second contact angle θ2between the optical conversion material and the adhesive layer were measured.

Example 4

After the optical path control member was manufactured in the same manner as in Example 1 except that the composition ratio of the optical conversion material was different as shown in Table 1, the first contact angle θ1between the contact surfaces of the optical conversion material and the accommodation part and the second contact angle θ2between the optical conversion material and the adhesive layer were measured.

Ccomparative Example 1

After manufacturing the optical path control member in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the composition ratio of the optical conversion material and permittivity of a solvent were different as shown in Table 1, the first contact angle θ1between the contact surfaces of the optical conversion material and the accommodation part and the second contact angle θ2between the optical conversion material and the adhesive layer were measured.

Ccomparative Example 2

After manufacturing the optical path control member in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the composition ratio of the optical conversion material and the permittivity of the solvent were different as shown in Table 1, the first contact angle θ1between the contact surfaces of the optical conversion material and the accommodation part and the second contact angle θ2between the optical conversion material and the adhesive layer were measured.

Comparative Example 3

After manufacturing the optical path control member in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the composition ratio of the optical conversion material and the permittivity of the solvent were different as shown in Table 1, the first contact angle θ1between the contact surfaces of the optical conversion material and the accommodation part and the second contact angle θ2between the optical conversion material and the adhesive layer were measured.

Comparative Example 4

After manufacturing the optical path control member in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the composition ratio of the optical conversion material and the permittivity of the solvent were different as shown in Table 1, the first contact angle θ1between the contact surfaces of the optical conversion material and the accommodation part and the second contact angle θ2between the optical conversion material and the adhesive layer were measured.

TABLE 1SolventSoluteDispersantSolventFirst contactSecond contactFilling(wt %)(wt %)(wt %)permittivityangle (°)angle (°)propertiesExample 194.73.51.62.18.34.4highExample 293.53.532.110.97.4highExample 391.53.552.114.18.9highExample 489.53.572.118.715highComparative93.53.537.520.847lowExample 1Comparative83.53.5157.516.723lowExample 2Comparative93.53.534045.354lowExample 3Comparative90.53.562.117.84.1mediumExample 4

Referring to Table 1, in the optical conversion material of the optical path control member according to Examples, both the first contact angle θ1and the second contact angle θ2have a value of 20° or less, and accordingly, it can be seen that both the resin layer and the adhesive layers have hydrophobicity similar to that of the dispersion liquid.

Accordingly, it can be seen that the filling properties of the optical conversion material according to Examples are improved.

On the other hand, in the optical conversion material of the optical path control member according to Comparative Examples 1 to 3, at least one of the first contact angle θ1and the second contact angle θ2has a value exceeding 20°, and thus, it can be seen that any one of the resin layer and the adhesive layer has hydrophilicity different from that of the dispersion.

Accordingly, it can be seen that the filling properties of the optical conversion material according to Comparative Examples 1 to 3 are deteriorated.

In addition, referring to Comparative Example 4, when a difference between the first contact angle θ1and the second contact angle θ2exceeds 10°, it can be seen that the filling properties are deteriorated depending on a difference in the filling speed of the optical conversion material in contact with the adhesive layer and the resin layer.

Hereinafter, referring toFIGS.29to33, a display device to which an optical path control member according to an embodiment is applied will be described.

Referring toFIGS.29and30, an optical path control member1000according to an embodiment may be disposed on or under a display panel2000.

The display panel2000and the optical path control member1000may be disposed to be adhered to each other. For example, the display panel2000and the optical path control member1000may be adhered to each other via an adhesive layer1500. The adhesive layer1500may be transparent. For example, the adhesive layer1500may include an adhesive or an adhesive layer including an optical transparent adhesive material.

The adhesive layer1500may include a release film. In detail, when adhering the optical path control member and the display panel, the optical path control member and the display panel may be adhered after the release film is removed.

Meanwhile, referring toFIGS.29and30, one end or one end and the other end of the optical path control member may protrude, and the optical conversion unit may not be disposed at the protruding portion. The protrusion region is an electrode connection portion in which the first electrode210and the second electrode220are exposed, and may connect an external printed circuit board and the optical path control member through the electrode connection portion.

The display panel2000may include a first′ substrate2100and a second′ substrate2200. When the display panel2000is a liquid crystal display panel, the optical path control member may be formed under the liquid crystal panel. That is, when a surface viewed by the user in the liquid crystal panel is defined as an upper portion of the liquid crystal panel, the optical path control member may be disposed under the liquid crystal panel. The display panel2000may be formed in a structure in which the first′ substrate2100including a thin film transistor (TFT) and a pixel electrode and the second′ substrate2200including color filter layers are bonded to each other with a liquid crystal layer interposed therebetween.

In addition, the display panel2000may be a liquid crystal display panel of a color filter on transistor (COT) structure in which a thin film transistor, a color filter, and a black electrolyte are formed at the first′ substrate2100and the second′ substrate2200is bonded to the first′ substrate2100with the liquid crystal layer interposed therebetween. That is, a thin film transistor may be formed on the first′ substrate2100, a protective film may be formed on the thin film transistor, and a color filter layer may be formed on the protective film. In addition, a pixel electrode in contact with the thin film transistor may be formed on the first′ substrate2100. At this point, in order to improve an aperture ratio and simplify a masking process, the black electrolyte may be omitted, and a common electrode may be formed to function as the black electrolyte.

In addition, when the display panel2000is the liquid crystal display panel, the display device may further include a backlight unit3000providing light from a rear surface of the display panel2000.

That is, as shown inFIG.29, the optical path control member may be disposed under the liquid crystal panel and on the backlight unit3000, and the optical path control member may be disposed between the backlight unit3000and the display panel2000.

Alternatively, as shown inFIG.30, when the display panel2000is an organic light emitting diode panel, the optical path control member may be formed on the organic light emitting diode panel. That is, when the surface viewed by the user in the organic light emitting diode panel is defined as an upper portion of the organic light emitting diode panel, the optical path control member may be disposed on the organic light emitting diode panel. The display panel2000may include a self-luminous element that does not require a separate light source. In the display panel2000, a thin film transistor may be formed on the first′ substrate2100, and an organic light emitting element in contact with the thin film transistor may be formed. The organic light emitting element may include an anode, a cathode, and an organic light emitting layer formed between the anode and the cathode. In addition, the second′ substrate2200configured to function as an encapsulation substrate for encapsulation may be further included on the organic light emitting element.

That is, light emitted from the display panel2000or the backlight unit3000may move from the second substrate120toward the first substrate110of the optical path control member.

In addition, although not shown in drawings, a polarizing plate may be further disposed between the optical path control member1000and the display panel2000. The polarizing plate may be a linear polarizing plate or an external light reflection preventive polarizing plate. For example, when the display panel2000is a liquid crystal display panel, the polarizing plate may be the linear polarizing plate. Further, when the display panel2000is the organic light emitting diode panel, the polarizing plate may be the external light reflection preventing polarizing plate.

In addition, an additional functional layer1300such as an anti-reflection layer, an anti-glare, or the like may be further disposed on the optical path control member1000. Specifically, the functional layer1300may be adhered to one surface of the first substrate110of the optical path control member. Although not shown in drawings, the functional layer1300may be adhered to the first substrate110of the optical path control member via an adhesive layer. In addition, a release film for protecting the functional layer may be further disposed on the functional layer1300.

Further, a touch panel may be further disposed between the display panel and the optical path control member.

It is shown in the drawings that the optical path control member is disposed at an upper portion of the display panel, but the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the optical path control member may be disposed at various positions such as a position in which light is adjustable, that is, a lower portion of the display panel, or between a second substrate and a first substrate of the display panel, or the like.

In addition, it is shown in the drawings that the optical conversion unit of the optical path control member according to the embodiment is in a direction parallel or perpendicular to an outer surface of the second substrate, but the optical conversion unit is formed to be inclined at a predetermined angle from the outer surface of the second substrate. Through this, a moire phenomenon occurring between the display panel and the optical path control member may be reduced.

Referring toFIGS.31to33, an optical path control member according to an embodiment may be applied to various display devices.

Referring toFIGS.31to33, the optical path control member according to the embodiment may be applied to a display device that displays a display.

For example, when power is applied to the optical path control member as shown inFIG.31, the accommodation part functions as the light transmitting part, so that the display device may be driven in the share mode, and when power is not applied to the optical path control member as shown inFIG.32, the accommodation part functions as the light blocking part, so that the display device may be driven in the privacy mode.

Accordingly, a user may easily drive the display device in the privacy mode or a normal mode by applying power.

Light emitted from the backlight unit or the self-luminous element may move from the first substrate toward the second substrate. Alternatively, the light emitted from the backlight unit or the self-luminous element may also move from the second substrate toward the first substrate.

In addition, referring toFIG.33, the display device to which the optical path control member according to the embodiment is applied may also be applied inside a vehicle.

For example, the display device including the optical path control member according to the embodiment may display a video confirming information of the vehicle and a movement route of the vehicle. The display device may be disposed between a driver seat and a passenger seat of the vehicle.

In addition, the optical path control member according to the embodiment may be applied to a dashboard that displays a speed, an engine, an alarm signal, and the like of the vehicle.

Further, the optical path control member according to the embodiment may be applied to a front glass (FG) of the vehicle or right and left window glasses.

The characteristics, structures, effects, and the like described in the above-described embodiments are included in at least one embodiment of the present invention, but are not limited to only one embodiment. Furthermore, the characteristic, structure, and effect illustrated in each embodiment may be combined or modified for other embodiments by a person skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is to be understood that such combination and modification are included in the scope of the present invention.

In addition, embodiments are mostly described above, but the embodiments are merely examples and do not limit the present invention, and a person skilled in the art may appreciate that several variations and applications not presented above may be made without departing from the essential characteristic of embodiments. For example, each component specifically represented in the embodiments may be varied. In addition, it should be construed that differences related to such a variation and such an application are included in the scope of the present invention defined in the following claims.