JP2007193160A - Electrooptical device, and method for manufacturing the same, and electronic apparatus - Google Patents

Electrooptical device, and method for manufacturing the same, and electronic apparatus Download PDF

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JP2007193160A
JP2007193160A JP2006012045A JP2006012045A JP2007193160A JP 2007193160 A JP2007193160 A JP 2007193160A JP 2006012045 A JP2006012045 A JP 2006012045A JP 2006012045 A JP2006012045 A JP 2006012045A JP 2007193160 A JP2007193160 A JP 2007193160A
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substrate
protective
electro
optical device
liquid crystal
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Masanori Akiyama
正憲 秋山
Taiji Ishii
泰二 石井
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Seiko Epson Corp
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Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To surely seal the inside of an electrooptical device, such as a liquid crystal device, from the outside of the device. <P>SOLUTION: A protective member 300 is extended along a sealing region so as to surround an image display region 10a in plane view. The protective member 300 is provided in the spacing between a TFT array substrate 10 on an outer side of a counter substrate 20 and a protective substrate 200 in a region where the TFT array substrate 10 and the protective substrate 200 are superposed on each other in plane view and is so provided as to surround the image display region 10a along each side of the TFT array substrate 10. According to the protective member 300, the intrusion of a foreign matter, such as moisture, into the image display region 10a sealed by the sealing material 52 can be effectively reduced and the liquid crystal device body can be sealed over the entire part of the circumference of the liquid crystal device 1 including the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

本発明は、例えば液晶プロジェクタのライトバルブとして用いられる液晶パネル等の電気光学装置、及びその製造方法、並びにそのような電気光学装置を備えた液晶プロジェクタ等の電子機器の技術分野に関する。   The present invention relates to an electro-optical device such as a liquid crystal panel used as a light valve of a liquid crystal projector, a manufacturing method thereof, and a technical field of an electronic apparatus such as a liquid crystal projector including such an electro-optical device.

この種の電気光学装置の一例である液晶パネルでは、相対向するように配置された一対の基板間に液晶層を封止し、液晶層の駆動によって画像表示が行われる表示領域が形成される。液晶パネルが液晶プロジェクタ等の電子機器におけるライトバルブとして用いられる際には、機器の筐体、ケーシング或いはフレーム等にいわば裸の状態で設置されるのではなく、通常、適当な実装ケースに実装乃至収容した上で設置される。液晶パネル等の電気光学パネルを実装ケースに収容するのは、第１義的には、当該実装ケースに適当なねじ孔等を設けておくことで、電気光学パネルの筐体等、に対する固定、取り付け或いは光学的な位置決めを容易に実施できるからである。   In a liquid crystal panel which is an example of this type of electro-optical device, a liquid crystal layer is sealed between a pair of substrates arranged to face each other, and a display region in which image display is performed is formed by driving the liquid crystal layer. . When a liquid crystal panel is used as a light valve in an electronic device such as a liquid crystal projector, it is usually not mounted in a bare state in a device casing, casing or frame, but usually mounted in an appropriate mounting case. Installed after housing. The mounting of the electro-optical panel such as a liquid crystal panel in the mounting case is primarily to fix the electro-optical panel to the housing or the like by providing an appropriate screw hole or the like in the mounting case. This is because attachment or optical positioning can be easily performed.

また、液晶パネルでは、その駆動時に液晶分子を駆動する一対の透明電極の周辺部で、一対の透明電極が液晶分子を封止するための封止部から剥離しないように透明電極の端部に傾斜面を設け、封止部及び透明電極の接触面積を増やす技術が開示されている（例えば、特許文献１参照。）。   In addition, in the liquid crystal panel, at the periphery of the pair of transparent electrodes that drive the liquid crystal molecules at the time of driving, the pair of transparent electrodes are disposed at the end portions of the transparent electrodes so as not to be separated from the sealing portion for sealing the liquid crystal molecules. A technique for providing an inclined surface and increasing the contact area between the sealing portion and the transparent electrode is disclosed (for example, see Patent Document 1).

特開平４−２１２１２８号公報JP-A-4-212128

この種の電気光学装置の一例である液晶パネルでは、液晶層をシール部によってシールする。シール部は、一対の基板間に液晶層を保持する共に、液晶パネルの外部から水分等の異物が内部に侵入することを低減し、配向膜の劣化に起因する表示性能の低下を抑制する機能も有している。   In a liquid crystal panel which is an example of this type of electro-optical device, a liquid crystal layer is sealed by a seal portion. The seal part holds the liquid crystal layer between a pair of substrates, reduces the entry of foreign matter such as moisture from the outside of the liquid crystal panel, and suppresses the deterioration of display performance due to the deterioration of the alignment film Also have.

しかしながら、シール部だけでは液晶パネルの内部、より具体的には液晶層が充填された領域をパネル外部から十分にシールすることが困難であり、配向膜が水分等の異物によって劣化してしまう問題点がある。加えて、液晶層及び液晶層を挟持する一対の基板からなる液晶パネル本体を実装ケースに実装乃至収容してなる液晶パネルは、液晶パネル本体の他に実装ケースが必要となり、製造コストを下げることが困難となる。また、液晶パネル本体を実装ケースに実装乃至収容しないまま、即ち液晶パネル本体を裸のままハンドリングした場合には、割れ或いは欠け等の不具合が液晶パネル本体に生じてしまい、製造時の歩留まりを下げてしまう虞もある。   However, it is difficult to sufficiently seal the inside of the liquid crystal panel, more specifically, the region filled with the liquid crystal layer from the outside of the panel with only the seal portion, and the alignment film is deteriorated by foreign matters such as moisture. There is a point. In addition, a liquid crystal panel comprising a liquid crystal layer and a liquid crystal panel main body composed of a pair of substrates sandwiching the liquid crystal layer mounted or housed in a mounting case requires a mounting case in addition to the liquid crystal panel main body, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost. It becomes difficult. Also, if the liquid crystal panel body is not mounted or housed in the mounting case, that is, if the liquid crystal panel body is handled while being bare, defects such as cracks or chipping will occur in the liquid crystal panel body, reducing the manufacturing yield. There is also a risk of it.

よって、本発明は上記問題点等に鑑みてなされたものであり、例えば、表示性能の低下を抑制でき、且つ製造コストを低減できる液晶パネル等の電気光学装置、及びその製造方法、並びにそのような電気光学装置を具備してなる電子機器を提供することを課題とする。   Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above problems and the like. For example, an electro-optical device such as a liquid crystal panel that can suppress a decrease in display performance and can reduce manufacturing costs, a manufacturing method thereof, and the like. It is an object to provide an electronic apparatus including such an electro-optical device.

本発明の第１の発明に係る電気光学装置は上記課題を解決するために、第１基板と、前記第１基板に対向配置されており、平面的に見て前記第１基板の外形より大きい外形を有する第２基板と、前記第１基板及び前記第２基板間に挟持された電気光学物質と、平面的に見て前記電気光学物質により表示が行われる表示領域の周囲に設けられており、前記第１基板及び前記第２基板を相互に貼り合わせるシール部と、前記第２基板から見て前記第１基板の反対側で前記第１基板に対向配置されており、前記第１基板の外形より大きい外形を有する保護基板と、平面的に見て前記第１基板の外側における前記第２基板及び前記保護基板が相互に重なる領域において、前記第２基板及び前記保護基板の隙間に設けられた保護部材とを備える。   In order to solve the above-described problem, the electro-optical device according to the first aspect of the present invention is disposed opposite to the first substrate and the first substrate, and is larger than the outer shape of the first substrate in plan view. A second substrate having an outer shape; an electro-optical material sandwiched between the first substrate and the second substrate; and a display area around which a display is performed by the electro-optical material when viewed in plan. A seal portion for bonding the first substrate and the second substrate to each other, and the first substrate on the opposite side of the first substrate when viewed from the second substrate. In a region where the protective substrate having an outer shape larger than the outer shape and the second substrate and the protective substrate on the outside of the first substrate in a plan view overlap each other, the gap is provided between the second substrate and the protective substrate. And a protective member.

本発明の第１の発明に係る電気光学装置では、第１基板及び第２基板は、例えば液晶等の電気光学物質を挟持しており、シール部によって相互に貼り合わせられることによって液晶パネル等の電気光学装置本体を構成する。第１基板及び第２基板の一方は、例えば液晶分子等の電気光学物質を駆動するための駆動回路を有している。第１基板及び第２基板の夫々は、画素電極及び画素電極と対向する対向電極を有しており、液晶分子等の電気光学物質に電圧を印加し、画像を表示する。   In the electro-optical device according to the first aspect of the present invention, the first substrate and the second substrate sandwich an electro-optical material such as liquid crystal, for example, and are bonded to each other by a seal portion, thereby being used for a liquid crystal panel or the like. The electro-optical device main body is configured. One of the first substrate and the second substrate has a drive circuit for driving an electro-optical material such as liquid crystal molecules. Each of the first substrate and the second substrate has a pixel electrode and a counter electrode facing the pixel electrode, and applies a voltage to an electro-optical material such as liquid crystal molecules to display an image.

保護基板は、第２基板から見て第１基板の反対側で第１基板に対向配置されている。ここで、「第２基板から見て第１基板の反対側」とは、当該電気光学装置の断面において、第１基板を中心として当該第１基板の両側の夫々に第２基板及び保護基板の夫々が配置されていることを意味する。第１基板、第２基板及び保護基板の夫々は、液晶パネル等の電気光学装置に汎用される基板であれば如何なる基板でもよく、例えばガラス基板を用いることが可能である。   The protective substrate is disposed opposite to the first substrate on the opposite side of the first substrate when viewed from the second substrate. Here, the “opposite side of the first substrate when viewed from the second substrate” means that the second substrate and the protective substrate are arranged on both sides of the first substrate with the first substrate as a center in the cross section of the electro-optical device. It means that each is arranged. Each of the first substrate, the second substrate, and the protective substrate may be any substrate as long as it is a substrate that is widely used in electro-optical devices such as a liquid crystal panel. For example, a glass substrate can be used.

第２基板及び保護基板の夫々は、平面的に見て第１基板の外形より大きい外形を有しているため、平面的に見て第１基板の外側における第２基板及び保護基板が相互に重なる領域において、第２基板及び保護基板間に隙間が生じている。ここで、第２基板及び保護基板の外形は、第１基板の外形より大きければよく、第２基板及び保護基板の相互の大小関係は何ら限定されるものではない。第２基板及び保護基板の外形が、これら基板間に位置する第１基板の外形より大きいことにより、平面的に見て第１基板の外側において、第２基板及び保護基板間に隙間が確保されていることになる。   Since each of the second substrate and the protective substrate has an outer shape larger than the outer shape of the first substrate when seen in a plan view, the second substrate and the protective substrate outside the first substrate when seen in a plan view are mutually connected. In the overlapping region, a gap is generated between the second substrate and the protective substrate. Here, the outer shape of the second substrate and the protective substrate may be larger than the outer shape of the first substrate, and the magnitude relationship between the second substrate and the protective substrate is not limited at all. Since the outer shape of the second substrate and the protective substrate is larger than the outer shape of the first substrate located between these substrates, a gap is secured between the second substrate and the protective substrate outside the first substrate in plan view. Will be.

保護部材部は、平面的に見て第１基板の外側における第２基板及び保護基板が相互に重なる領域において、第２基板及び保護基板の隙間に設けられている。したがって、第１基板及び第２基板間に挟持された電気光学物質は、シール部によって第１基板及び第２基板間に挟持されていることに加えて、保護部材によって電気光学装置の内部に封止されている。これにより、シール部のみを設ける場合に比べて電気光学装置の内部に侵入する水分等の異物を低減でき、電気光学装置の表示性能が低下することを抑制できる。   The protection member portion is provided in a gap between the second substrate and the protection substrate in a region where the second substrate and the protection substrate overlap each other outside the first substrate when seen in a plan view. Therefore, the electro-optical material sandwiched between the first substrate and the second substrate is sealed between the first substrate and the second substrate by the seal portion and sealed inside the electro-optical device by the protective member. It has been stopped. Accordingly, foreign matter such as moisture entering the electro-optical device can be reduced as compared with the case where only the seal portion is provided, and the display performance of the electro-optical device can be prevented from being deteriorated.

加えて、本発明の第１の発明に係る電気光学装置によれば、第１基板及び第２基板を含む電気光学装置本体が保護基板によって保護されているため、電気光学装置本体に加わる衝撃或いは応力によって第１基板或いは第２基板の割れ及び欠け等の機械的な損傷が生じることを低減できる。特に、保護部材は、平面的に見て第１基板の外側において、第２基板及び保護基板間の隙間に設けられているため、第１基板及び第２基板の縁に割れ或いは欠けが生じないように第２基板及び保護基板の縁の機械的強度を高めることが可能である。したがって、第１基板及び第２基板を含む電気光学装置本体を実装ケースに実装乃至収容することなく、電気光学装置に生じる損傷を低減できる。言い換えれば、保護基板が実装ケースの機能を有することにより、実装ケースがなくても電気光学装置をハンドリング時における衝撃等から保護できる。   In addition, according to the electro-optical device according to the first aspect of the present invention, since the electro-optical device body including the first substrate and the second substrate is protected by the protective substrate, an impact applied to the electro-optical device body or The occurrence of mechanical damage such as cracking and chipping of the first substrate or the second substrate due to the stress can be reduced. In particular, since the protective member is provided in the gap between the second substrate and the protective substrate outside the first substrate in plan view, the edge of the first substrate and the second substrate is not cracked or chipped. As described above, it is possible to increase the mechanical strength of the edge of the second substrate and the protective substrate. Therefore, it is possible to reduce damage caused to the electro-optical device without mounting or housing the electro-optical device main body including the first substrate and the second substrate in the mounting case. In other words, since the protective substrate has the function of a mounting case, the electro-optical device can be protected from an impact or the like during handling without the mounting case.

また、本発明の第１の発明に係る電気光学装置によれば、実装ケースが不要となるため、電気光学装置を構成する部品に要するコスト、及び電気光学装置を製造する際の製造コストを低減できる。   In addition, according to the electro-optical device according to the first aspect of the present invention, since a mounting case is not necessary, the cost required for components constituting the electro-optical device and the manufacturing cost when manufacturing the electro-optical device are reduced. it can.

以上、本発明の第１の発明に係る電気光学装置によれば、表示性能の低下を抑制できることに加え、電気光学装置を衝撃等から保護でき、信頼性に優れた電気光学装置を提供できる。加えて、本発明の第１の発明に係る電気光学装置によれば、部品コスト及び製造コストを低減できるため、信頼性に優れた電気光学装置を低コストで提供できる。   As described above, according to the electro-optical device according to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a highly reliable electro-optical device that can protect the electro-optical device from impacts and the like in addition to suppressing the deterioration in display performance. In addition, according to the electro-optical device according to the first aspect of the present invention, the component cost and the manufacturing cost can be reduced, so that an electro-optical device with excellent reliability can be provided at low cost.

本発明に係る第１の発明に係る電気光学装置の一の態様では、前記第２基板、及び前記保護基板の夫々の周縁部が嵌合される開口部を有するフレーム部を備え、前記保護基板は、前記保護基板の周縁部に形成されており、且つ前記保護基板を前記フレーム部に固定するための固定手段の一部を構成する穴部を有していてもよい。   In one aspect of the electro-optical device according to the first aspect of the present invention, the protective substrate includes a frame portion having an opening into which a peripheral edge of each of the second substrate and the protective substrate is fitted. May be formed in a peripheral portion of the protective substrate, and may have a hole portion constituting a part of fixing means for fixing the protective substrate to the frame portion.

この態様によれば、割れ及び欠けが生じ易い第２基板、及び保護基板の夫々の周縁部が、例えば一体的にフレーム部の開口部に嵌合されるため、第２基板及び保護基板に生じ易い割れ及び欠け等の損傷を効果的に低減できる。ここで、「一体的に」とは、第２基板及び保護基板の夫々が、開口部に個別に嵌合されることを意味するものではなく、フレーム部が有する一つの開口部に嵌合されることを意味する。   According to this aspect, since the respective peripheral portions of the second substrate and the protective substrate that are likely to be cracked and chipped are integrally fitted into the opening of the frame portion, for example, they are generated in the second substrate and the protective substrate. Damage such as easy cracking and chipping can be effectively reduced. Here, “integrally” does not mean that each of the second substrate and the protective substrate is individually fitted into the opening, but is fitted into one opening of the frame portion. Means that.

保護基板は、保護基板の周縁部に形成されており、且つ保護基板をフレーム部に固定するための固定手段の一部を構成する穴部を有している。したがって、開口部に嵌合される周縁部は、例えば穴部に挿入された螺子によってフレーム部に堅固に固定されることが可能であり、第１基板及び第２基板に穴部を形成することなく、第１基板及び第２基板を含む電気光学装置本体をフレーム部に固定できる。特に、第１基板及び第２基板がガラス基板等の割れ及び欠けが生じ易い基板である場合には、割れ及び欠けを生じさせることなくこれら基板に穴部を形成することは困難である上、これら基板に穴部を形成するとして手間を要する。したがって、この態様によれば、保護基板に穴部を形成することによって、第１基板及び第２基板に穴部を形成する手間を要することなく、且つ割れ等の基板損傷を生じさせることなく、確実にフレーム部に電気光学装置本体を固定するための穴部を形成できる。   The protective substrate is formed at the peripheral edge of the protective substrate and has a hole that constitutes a part of a fixing means for fixing the protective substrate to the frame portion. Accordingly, the peripheral edge fitted into the opening can be firmly fixed to the frame by, for example, a screw inserted into the hole, and the hole is formed in the first substrate and the second substrate. In addition, the electro-optical device main body including the first substrate and the second substrate can be fixed to the frame portion. In particular, in the case where the first substrate and the second substrate are substrates that are likely to be cracked and chipped, such as a glass substrate, it is difficult to form a hole in these substrates without causing cracking and chipping. It takes time to form holes in these substrates. Therefore, according to this aspect, by forming the hole portion in the protective substrate, it is not necessary to form a hole portion in the first substrate and the second substrate, and without causing substrate damage such as a crack, It is possible to reliably form a hole for fixing the electro-optical device main body to the frame portion.

尚、この態様では、第１基板及び第２基板の周縁部がフレーム部によって保護されるため、電気光学装置を取り扱う際のハンドリング時において第１基板及び第２基板に生じる割れ及び欠けを低減できる。   In this aspect, since the peripheral portions of the first substrate and the second substrate are protected by the frame portion, it is possible to reduce cracks and chips generated in the first substrate and the second substrate when handling the electro-optical device. .

本発明の第２の発明に係る電気光学装置は上記課題を解決するために、第１基板と、前記第１基板に対向配置された第２基板と、前記第１基板及び前記第２基板間に挟持された電気光学物質と、平面的に見て前記電気光学物質により表示が行われる表示領域の周囲に設けられており、前記第１基板及び前記第２基板を相互に貼り合わせるシール部と、前記第２基板から見て前記第１基板の反対側で前記第１基板に対向配置されており、平面的に見て前記第１基板及び前記２基板の夫々の外形より大きい外形を有する第１保護基板と、前記第１基板から見て前記第２基板の反対側で前記第２基板に対向配置されており、平面的に見て前記第１基板及び前記第２基板の夫々の外形より大きい外形を有する第２保護基板と、平面的に見て前記第１基板及び前記第２基板の外側における前記第１保護基板及び前記第２保護基板が相互に重なる領域において、前記第１保護基板及び前記第２保護基板の隙間に設けられた保護部材とを備える。   In order to solve the above-described problem, an electro-optical device according to a second aspect of the present invention includes a first substrate, a second substrate disposed opposite to the first substrate, and a space between the first substrate and the second substrate. An electro-optical material sandwiched between and a seal portion that is provided around a display region in which display is performed by the electro-optical material in plan view, and that bonds the first substrate and the second substrate together , Opposite to the first substrate when viewed from the second substrate, and opposed to the first substrate, and has a larger outer shape than the first substrate and the second substrate when viewed in plan. One protective substrate and the second substrate opposite to the second substrate as viewed from the first substrate are arranged opposite to the second substrate, and from the respective outer shapes of the first substrate and the second substrate as viewed in plan A second protective substrate having a large outer shape, and the first base in plan view And in the second region where the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate on the outside of the substrate overlap with each other, and a protective member provided in a gap of the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate.

本発明の第２の発明に係る電気光学装置では、第１基板及び第２基板は、例えば液晶等の電気光学物質を挟持しており、シール部によって相互に貼り合わせられることによって液晶パネル等の電気光学装置本体を構成する。第１基板及び第２基板の一方は、例えば液晶分子等の電気光学物質を駆動するための駆動回路を有している。第１基板及び第２基板の夫々は、画素電極及び画素電極と対向する対向電極を有しており、液晶分子等の電気光学物質に電圧を印加し、画像を表示する。   In the electro-optical device according to the second aspect of the present invention, the first substrate and the second substrate sandwich, for example, an electro-optical material such as liquid crystal, and are bonded to each other by a seal portion, thereby being used for a liquid crystal panel or the like. The electro-optical device main body is configured. One of the first substrate and the second substrate has a drive circuit for driving an electro-optical material such as liquid crystal molecules. Each of the first substrate and the second substrate has a pixel electrode and a counter electrode facing the pixel electrode, and applies a voltage to an electro-optical material such as liquid crystal molecules to display an image.

第１保護基板は、第２基板から見て第１基板の反対側で第１基板に対向配置されている。ここで、「第２基板から見て第１基板の反対側」とは、当該電気光学装置の断面において、第１基板を中心として当該第１基板の両側の夫々に第２基板及び第１保護基板の夫々が配置されていることを意味する。   The first protective substrate is disposed opposite to the first substrate on the opposite side of the first substrate when viewed from the second substrate. Here, the “opposite side of the first substrate when viewed from the second substrate” refers to the second substrate and the first protection on both sides of the first substrate with respect to the first substrate in the cross section of the electro-optical device. It means that each of the substrates is arranged.

第２保護基板は、第１基板から見て第２基板の反対側で第２基板に対向配置されている。ここで、「第１基板から見て第２基板の反対側」とは、当該電気光学装置の断面において、第２基板を中心として当該第２基板の両側の夫々に第１基板及び第２保護基板の夫々が配置されていることを意味する。   The second protective substrate is disposed opposite to the second substrate on the opposite side of the second substrate when viewed from the first substrate. Here, the “opposite side of the second substrate when viewed from the first substrate” means that the first substrate and the second protection are arranged on both sides of the second substrate with the second substrate as the center in the cross section of the electro-optical device. It means that each of the substrates is arranged.

第１保護基板及び第２保護基板の夫々は、第１基板及び前記第２基板の夫々の外形より大きい外形を有しているため、平面的に見て第１基板及び第２基板の外側における第１保護基板及び第２保護基板が相互に重なる領域において、第１保護基板及び第２保護基板間に隙間が確保される。   Since each of the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate has an outer shape larger than the outer shape of each of the first substrate and the second substrate, the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate are arranged outside the first substrate and the second substrate in plan view. In the region where the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate overlap each other, a gap is secured between the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate.

保護部材は、第１保護基板及び第２保護基板間に確保された隙間に設けられている。第１基板、第２基板、第１保護基板及び第２保護基板の夫々は、液晶パネル等の電気光学装置に汎用される基板であれば如何なる基板でもよく、例えばガラス基板を用いることが可能である。   The protective member is provided in a gap secured between the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate. Each of the first substrate, the second substrate, the first protective substrate, and the second protective substrate may be any substrate as long as it is a substrate that is generally used in electro-optical devices such as liquid crystal panels. For example, a glass substrate can be used. is there.

第１保護基板及び第２保護基板の夫々は、平面的に見て第１基板及び第２基板の外形より大きい外形を有しているため、平面的に見て第１基板及び第２基板の外側における第１保護基板及び第２保護基板が相互に重なる領域において、第１保護基板及び第２保護基板に隙間が生じている。ここで、第１保護基板及び第２保護基板の外形は、第１基板及び第２基板を含む電気光学装置本体の外形より大きければよく、第１保護基板及び第２保護基板の相互の大小関係は何ら限定されるものではない。   Since each of the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate has an outer shape larger than the outer shape of the first substrate and the second substrate when seen in a plan view, the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate are seen as a plan view. In the region where the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate overlap each other, a gap is generated between the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate. Here, the outer shape of the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate may be larger than the outer shape of the electro-optical device main body including the first substrate and the second substrate, and the mutual magnitude relationship between the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate. Is not limited in any way.

保護部材は、平面的に見て第１基板及び第２基板の外側における第１保護基板及び第２保護基板が相互に重なる領域において、第１保護基板及び第２保護基板の隙間に設けられている。   The protection member is provided in a gap between the first protection substrate and the second protection substrate in a region where the first protection substrate and the second protection substrate overlap each other outside the first substrate and the second substrate when seen in a plan view. Yes.

したがって、本発明の第２の発明に係る電気光学装置によれば、本発明の第１の発明に係る電気光学装置と同様に、シール部及び保護部材によって、電気光学装置の内部に侵入する水分等の異物を低減でき、電気光学装置の表示性能が低下することを抑制できる。   Therefore, according to the electro-optical device according to the second aspect of the present invention, the moisture entering the inside of the electro-optical device by the seal portion and the protective member, like the electro-optical device according to the first aspect of the present invention. It is possible to reduce foreign matters such as, and to prevent the display performance of the electro-optical device from deteriorating.

加えて、本発明の第２の発明に係る電気光学装置によれば、第１基板及び第２基板を含む電気光学装置本体が第１保護基板及び第２保護基板によって保護されているため、本発明の第１の発明に係る電気光学装置と同様に、電気光学装置本体に加わる衝撃或いは応力によって第１基板或いは第２基板の割れ及び欠け等の機械的な損傷が生じることを低減できる。よって、実装ケースに電気光学装置本体を実装乃至収容することなく、電気光学装置に生じる損傷を低減できる。   In addition, according to the electro-optical device according to the second aspect of the present invention, the electro-optical device body including the first substrate and the second substrate is protected by the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate. Similarly to the electro-optical device according to the first aspect of the invention, it is possible to reduce the occurrence of mechanical damage such as cracking and chipping of the first substrate or the second substrate due to impact or stress applied to the electro-optical device body. Therefore, it is possible to reduce damage to the electro-optical device without mounting or housing the electro-optical device body in the mounting case.

また、本発明の第２の発明に係る電気光学装置によれば、実装ケースが不要となるため、電気光学装置を構成する部品に要するコスト、及び電気光学装置を製造する際の製造コストを低減できる。   In addition, according to the electro-optical device according to the second aspect of the present invention, since a mounting case is not necessary, the cost required for components constituting the electro-optical device and the manufacturing cost when manufacturing the electro-optical device are reduced. it can.

以上、本発明の第２の発明に係る電気光学装置によれば、表示性能の低下を抑制できることに加え、電気光学装置をハンドリング時における衝撃等から保護でき、信頼性に優れた電気光学装置を提供できる。加えて、本発明の第２の発明に係る電気光学装置によれば、部品コスト及び製造コストを低減できるため、信頼性に優れた電気光学装置を低コストで提供できる。   As described above, according to the electro-optical device according to the second aspect of the present invention, in addition to being able to suppress deterioration in display performance, the electro-optical device that can protect the electro-optical device from an impact during handling and the like and has excellent reliability. Can be provided. In addition, according to the electro-optical device according to the second aspect of the present invention, the component cost and the manufacturing cost can be reduced, so that an electro-optical device having excellent reliability can be provided at a low cost.

本発明に係る第２の発明に係る電気光学装置の一の態様では、前記第１保護基板及び前記第２保護基板の夫々の周縁部が嵌合される開口部を有するフレーム部を備え、前記第１保護基板及び前記第２保護基板の少なくとも一方の保護基板は、前記一方の保護基板の周縁部に形成されており、且つ前記一方の保護基板を前記フレーム部に固定するための固定手段の一部を構成する穴部を有していてもよい。   In one aspect of the electro-optical device according to the second aspect of the present invention, the electro-optical device includes a frame portion having an opening into which a peripheral edge portion of each of the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate is fitted. At least one protective substrate of the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate is formed on a peripheral portion of the one protective substrate, and a fixing means for fixing the one protective substrate to the frame portion You may have the hole which comprises some.

この態様によれば、割れ及び欠けが生じ易い第１保護基板及び第２保護基板の夫々の周縁部が一体的にフレーム部の開口部に嵌合されるため、第１保護基板及び第２保護基板に生じる割れ及び欠けを低減でき、これに伴い第１保護基板及び第２保護基板間によって衝撃等から保護される第１基板及び第２基板には、割れ及び欠け等の損傷も生じにくくなる。ここで、「一体的に」とは、第１保護基板及び第２保護基板の夫々が、開口部に個別に嵌合されることを意味するものではなく、フレーム部が有する一つの開口部に嵌合されることを意味する。   According to this aspect, since the peripheral portions of the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate that are likely to be cracked and chipped are integrally fitted into the opening of the frame portion, the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate are fitted. Cracks and chips generated in the substrate can be reduced, and accordingly, the first substrate and the second substrate protected from an impact between the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate are less likely to be damaged such as cracks and chips. . Here, “integrally” does not mean that each of the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate is individually fitted into the opening portion, but in one opening portion of the frame portion. It means to be fitted.

第１保護基板及び第２保護基板の少なくとも一方の保護基板は、当該一方の保護基板の周縁部に形成されており、且つ一方の保護基板をフレーム部に固定するための固定手段の一部を構成する穴部を有している。したがって、開口部に嵌合される周縁部は、例えば穴部に挿入された螺子によってフレーム部に堅固に固定されることが可能であり、第１基板及び第２基板に穴部を形成することなく、第１基板及び第２基板を含む電気光学装置本体をフレーム部に固定できる。特に、第１基板及び第２基板がガラス基板である場合には、割れを生じさせることなくこれら基板に穴部を形成することは困難である上、これら基板に穴部を形成する手間を要する。したがって、この態様によれば、一方の保護基板に穴部を形成することによって、第１基板及び第２基板に割れ等を生じさせることない。より具体的には、例えば第１基板及び第２基板の周縁部がフレーム部によって保護されるため、電気光学装置を取り扱う際のハンドリング時において第１基板及び第２基板に生じる割れ及び欠けを低減できる。   At least one of the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate is formed on the peripheral edge of the one protective substrate, and a part of fixing means for fixing the one protective substrate to the frame portion is provided. It has a hole to configure. Accordingly, the peripheral edge fitted into the opening can be firmly fixed to the frame by, for example, a screw inserted into the hole, and the hole is formed in the first substrate and the second substrate. In addition, the electro-optical device main body including the first substrate and the second substrate can be fixed to the frame portion. In particular, when the first substrate and the second substrate are glass substrates, it is difficult to form holes in these substrates without causing cracks, and it takes time and effort to form holes in these substrates. . Therefore, according to this aspect, by forming the hole in one of the protective substrates, the first substrate and the second substrate are not cracked. More specifically, for example, since the peripheral portions of the first substrate and the second substrate are protected by the frame portion, cracks and chips generated in the first substrate and the second substrate during handling when handling the electro-optical device are reduced. it can.

また、本実施形態に係る電気光学装置によれば、第１基板及び第２基板に穴部を形成する手間を要することなく、確実にフレーム部に電気光学装置本体を固定するための穴部を形成できる。   In addition, according to the electro-optical device according to the present embodiment, the hole portion for securely fixing the electro-optical device body to the frame portion can be obtained without the need for forming the hole portion in the first substrate and the second substrate. Can be formed.

本発明の第１及び第２の発明に係る電気光学装置の他の態様では、前記保護部材は、平面的に見て前記表示領域を囲むように延在されていてもよい。   In another aspect of the electro-optical device according to the first and second inventions of the present invention, the protection member may extend so as to surround the display region when seen in a plan view.

この態様によれば、シール部によってシールされた表示領域内に水分等の異物が浸入することを効果的に低減できる。より具体的には、例えば第１基板及び第２基板を含む電気光学装置本体の周囲全体において電気光学装置本体の内部を封止できる。   According to this aspect, it is possible to effectively reduce the entry of foreign matters such as moisture into the display area sealed by the seal portion. More specifically, for example, the inside of the electro-optical device body can be sealed around the entire periphery of the electro-optical device body including the first substrate and the second substrate.

本発明の第１及び第２の発明に係る電気光学装置の他の態様では、前記保護部材は、流動性を有する封止材料が前記隙間に充填された後、該充填された封止材料を硬化させることによって形成されていてもよい。   In another aspect of the electro-optical device according to the first and second aspects of the present invention, the protective member is formed by filling the gap with a fluid sealing material and then filling the sealing material. It may be formed by curing.

この態様によれば、隙間に容易に封止材料を充填することができる。より具体的には、例えば浸透圧によって隙間に封止材料を隙間なく充填できる。封止材料は、例えば未硬化の紫外線効果樹脂であり、光透過性を有する基板を用いて隙間を確保することによって、隙間に充填された紫外線硬化樹脂に紫外線を照射でき、容易に保護部材を形成できる。   According to this aspect, the gap can be easily filled with the sealing material. More specifically, for example, the sealing material can be filled in the gap without any gap by osmotic pressure. The sealing material is, for example, an uncured ultraviolet effect resin. By securing a gap using a light-transmitting substrate, the ultraviolet curable resin filled in the gap can be irradiated with ultraviolet rays, and a protective member can be easily attached. Can be formed.

本発明の第３の発明に係る電気光学装置の製造方法は上記課題を解決するために、第１基板の外形より大きい外形を有する第２基板を前記第１基板に対向配置すると共に、前記第１基板及び前記第２基板間に挟持される電気光学物質により表示が行われる表示領域の周囲に沿ったシール領域で前記第１基板及び前記第２基板を相互に貼り合わせるシール部を形成する工程と、前記第１基板の外形より大きい外形を有する保護基板を前記第２基板から見て前記第１基板の反対側で前記第１基板に対向配置する工程と、平面的に見て前記第１基板の外側における前記第２基板及び前記保護基板が相互に重なる領域において、前記第２基板及び前記保護基板の隙間に流動性を有する封止材料を充填した後、該充填された封止材料を硬化させることによって、前記第２基板及び前記保護基板の隙間を封止する保護部材を形成する工程とを備える。   In order to solve the above problems, a method for manufacturing an electro-optical device according to a third aspect of the present invention includes a second substrate having an outer shape larger than the outer shape of the first substrate, opposed to the first substrate, and the first substrate. Forming a seal portion for adhering the first substrate and the second substrate to each other in a seal region along a periphery of a display region where display is performed by an electro-optic material sandwiched between the one substrate and the second substrate; And a step of disposing a protective substrate having an outer shape larger than the outer shape of the first substrate to face the first substrate on the opposite side of the first substrate when viewed from the second substrate, and the first substrate when viewed in plan. In the region where the second substrate and the protective substrate overlap each other outside the substrate, the gap between the second substrate and the protective substrate is filled with a fluid sealing material, and then the filled sealing material is used. To cure I, and forming a protective member sealing a gap of the second substrate and the protective substrate.

本発明の第３の発明に係る電気光学装置の製造方法によれば、本発明の第１の発明に係る電気光学装置と同様に、表示性能の低下を抑制できることに加え、電気光学装置をハンドリング時に加わる衝撃等から保護でき、信頼性に優れた電気光学装置を製造できる。加えて、本発明の第３の発明に係る電気光学装置によれば、部品コスト及び製造コストを低減できるため、信頼性に優れた電気光学装置を低コストで製造できる。   According to the method for manufacturing an electro-optical device according to the third aspect of the present invention, in the same way as the electro-optical device according to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to suppress display performance degradation and to handle the electro-optical device. It is possible to manufacture an electro-optical device that can be protected from impacts that are sometimes applied and that has excellent reliability. In addition, according to the electro-optical device according to the third aspect of the present invention, the component cost and the manufacturing cost can be reduced, so that an electro-optical device having excellent reliability can be manufactured at a low cost.

本発明の第４の発明に係る電気光学装置の製造方法は上記課題を解決するために、第１基板及び第２基板間に挟持される電気光学物質により表示が行われる表示領域の周囲に沿ったシール領域で前記第１基板及び前記第２基板を相互に貼り合わせるシール部を形成する工程と、前記第１基板及び第２基板の夫々の外形より大きい外形を有する第１保護基板を、前記第２基板から見て前記第１基板の反対側で前記第１基板に対向配置する工程と、前記第１基板及び前記２基板の夫々の外形より大きい外形を有する第２保護基板を、前記第１基板から見て前記第２基板の反対側で前記第２基板に対向配置する工程と、平面的に見て前記第１基板及び前記第２基板の外側における前記第１保護基板及び前記第２保護基板が相互に重なる領域において、前記第１保護基板及び前記第２保護基板の隙間に流動性を有する封止材料を充填した後、該充填された封止材料を硬化させることによって、前記第１保護基板及び前記第２保護基板の隙間を封止する保護部材を形成する工程とを備える。   In order to solve the above problem, a method for manufacturing an electro-optical device according to a fourth aspect of the present invention is arranged along the periphery of a display area where display is performed by an electro-optical material sandwiched between a first substrate and a second substrate. Forming a seal portion for bonding the first substrate and the second substrate to each other in a sealed region, and a first protective substrate having an outer shape larger than the outer shape of each of the first substrate and the second substrate, A step of disposing the first substrate opposite to the first substrate as viewed from the second substrate; and a second protective substrate having an outer shape larger than the outer shape of each of the first substrate and the second substrate. A step of opposing the second substrate on the opposite side of the second substrate as viewed from one substrate, and the first protective substrate and the second on the outside of the first substrate and the second substrate as viewed in plan. In areas where protective substrates overlap each other After the fluid sealing material is filled in the gap between the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate, the filled protective material is cured to thereby cure the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate. Forming a protective member for sealing the gap.

本発明の第４の発明に係る電気光学装置の製造方法によれば、本発明の第２の発明に係る電気光学装置と同様に、表示性能の低下を抑制できることに加え、電気光学装置をハンドリング時に加わる衝撃等から保護でき、信頼性に優れた電気光学装置を製造できる。加えて、本発明の第４の発明に係る電気光学装置によれば、部品コスト及び製造コストを低減できるため、信頼性に優れた電気光学装置を低コストで製造できる。   According to the method for manufacturing an electro-optical device according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, in the same way as the electro-optical device according to the second aspect of the present invention, it is possible to suppress display performance degradation and to handle the electro-optical device. It is possible to manufacture an electro-optical device that can be protected from impacts that are sometimes applied and that has excellent reliability. In addition, according to the electro-optical device according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the component cost and the manufacturing cost can be reduced, so that an electro-optical device having excellent reliability can be manufactured at a low cost.

本発明に係る電子機器は上記課題を解決するために、上述した本発明の電気光学装置を備えている。   In order to solve the above problems, an electronic apparatus according to the present invention includes the above-described electro-optical device of the present invention.

本発明に係る電子機器によれば、上述した本発明に係る電気光学装置を具備してなるので、高品位の表示が可能であり、且つ信頼性に優れた投射型表示装置、携帯電話、電子手帳、ワードプロセッサ、ビューファインダ型又はモニタ直視型のビデオテープレコーダ、ワークステーション、テレビ電話、ＰＯＳ端末、タッチパネルなどの各種電子機器を実現できる。また、本発明に係る電子機器として、例えば電子ペーパなどの電気泳動装置等も実現することが可能である。   According to the electronic apparatus according to the present invention, the electro-optical device according to the present invention described above is provided, so that a high-quality display is possible and a highly reliable projection display device, mobile phone, electronic Various electronic devices such as a notebook, a word processor, a viewfinder type or a monitor direct-view type video tape recorder, a workstation, a videophone, a POS terminal, and a touch panel can be realized. In addition, as an electronic apparatus according to the present invention, for example, an electrophoretic device such as electronic paper can be realized.

本発明のこのような作用及び他の利得は次に説明する実施形態から明らかにされる。   Such an operation and other advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the embodiments described below.

以下、図面を参照しながら本発明の第１及び第２の発明に係る電気光学装置、及び本発明の第３及び第４の発明に係る電気光学装置の製造方法、並びに本発明に係る電子機器の各実施形態を説明する。   Hereinafter, the electro-optical device according to the first and second inventions of the present invention, the method of manufacturing the electro-optical device according to the third and fourth inventions of the present invention, and the electronic apparatus according to the present invention with reference to the drawings Each embodiment will be described.

（第１実施形態）
＜１−１：電気光学装置の構成＞
先ず、図１及び図２を参照しながら本発明の第１の発明に係る電気光学装置の実施形態を説明する。 (First embodiment)
<1-1: Configuration of Electro-Optical Device>
First, an embodiment of an electro-optical device according to the first invention of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

図１は、本発明の第１の発明に係る「第２基板」の一例であるＴＦＴアレイ基板１０をその上に形成された各構成要素と共に本発明の第１の発明に係る「第１基板」の一例である対向基板２０の側から見た電気光学装置の平面図であり、図２は、図１のＨ−Ｈ´断面図である。本実施形態では、電気光学装置の一例として、駆動回路内蔵型のＴＦＴアクティブマトリクス駆動方式の液晶装置１を例に挙げる。   FIG. 1 shows a TFT array substrate 10 which is an example of a “second substrate” according to the first invention of the present invention, together with each component formed thereon, the “first substrate” according to the first invention of the present invention. 2 is a plan view of the electro-optical device viewed from the counter substrate 20 side as an example, and FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line HH ′ of FIG. In the present embodiment, as an example of an electro-optical device, a liquid crystal device 1 with a built-in driving circuit and a TFT active matrix driving method is given as an example.

図１及び図２において、液晶装置１は、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０、対向基板２０、本発明の第１の発明に係る「電気光学物質」の一例である液晶からなる液晶層５０、本発明の第１の発明に係る「シール部」の一例であるシール材５２、保護基板２００、及び保護部材３００を備えている。尚、「第１基板」の一例がＴＦＴアレイ基板１０であり、且つ「第２基板」の一例が対向基板２０であってもよく、このような場合には、対向基板２０から見てＴＦＴアレイ基板１０の反対側に保護基板２００が配置されることになる。   1 and 2, the liquid crystal device 1 includes a TFT array substrate 10, a counter substrate 20, a liquid crystal layer 50 made of liquid crystal, which is an example of an “electro-optical material” according to the first invention of the present invention, and a first embodiment of the present invention. The sealing material 52 which is an example of the "seal part" concerning 1 invention, the protective substrate 200, and the protective member 300 are provided. An example of the “first substrate” may be the TFT array substrate 10, and an example of the “second substrate” may be the counter substrate 20. In such a case, the TFT array is viewed from the counter substrate 20. The protective substrate 200 is disposed on the opposite side of the substrate 10.

液晶装置１では、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０と対向基板２０とが対向配置されている。ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０の外形は、対向基板２０の外形より大きい。より具体的には、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び対向基板２０の夫々は、平面的に見て矩形状を有しており、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０の各辺は、対向基板２０の各辺より外側に位置している。尚、本実施形態では、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０の平面形状を規定する辺の全てが、対向基板２０の辺より外側に位置しているが、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０の平面形状を規定する４辺のうち少なくとも一辺が対向基板２０の平面形状を規定する辺より外側に位置していればよい。   In the liquid crystal device 1, the TFT array substrate 10 and the counter substrate 20 are disposed to face each other. The outer shape of the TFT array substrate 10 is larger than the outer shape of the counter substrate 20. More specifically, each of the TFT array substrate 10 and the counter substrate 20 has a rectangular shape in plan view, and each side of the TFT array substrate 10 is located outside each side of the counter substrate 20. is doing. In this embodiment, all of the sides that define the planar shape of the TFT array substrate 10 are located outside the sides of the counter substrate 20. Of the four sides that define the planar shape of the TFT array substrate 10, It is sufficient that at least one side is located outside the side that defines the planar shape of the counter substrate 20.

ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０と対向基板２０との間に液晶層５０が封入されており、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０と対向基板２０とは、複数の画素部が設けられる、本発明の第１の発明の「表示領域」の一例である画像表示領域１０ａの周囲に位置するシール領域に設けられたシール材５２により相互に接着されている。   The liquid crystal layer 50 is sealed between the TFT array substrate 10 and the counter substrate 20, and the TFT array substrate 10 and the counter substrate 20 are provided with a plurality of pixel portions. They are bonded to each other by a seal material 52 provided in a seal area located around the image display area 10a, which is an example of “area”.

シール材５２は、両基板を貼り合わせるための、例えば紫外線硬化樹脂、熱硬化樹脂等からなり、製造プロセスにおいてＴＦＴアレイ基板１０上に塗布された後、紫外線照射、加熱等により硬化させられたものである。シール材５２中には、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０と対向基板２０との間隔（基板間ギャップ）を所定値とするためのグラスファイバ或いはガラスビーズ等のギャップ材が散布されている。   The sealing material 52 is made of, for example, an ultraviolet curable resin, a thermosetting resin, or the like for bonding the two substrates, and is applied on the TFT array substrate 10 in the manufacturing process and then cured by ultraviolet irradiation, heating, or the like. It is. In the sealing material 52, a gap material such as glass fiber or glass beads for dispersing the distance (inter-substrate gap) between the TFT array substrate 10 and the counter substrate 20 to a predetermined value is dispersed.

シール材５２が配置されたシール領域の内側に並行して、画像表示領域１０ａの額縁領域を規定する遮光性の額縁遮光膜５３が、対向基板２０側に設けられている。但し、このような額縁遮光膜５３の一部又は全部は、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０側に内蔵遮光膜として設けられてもよい。尚、画像表示領域１０ａの周辺に位置する周辺領域が存在する。言い換えれば、本実施形態においては特に、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０の中心から見て、この額縁遮光膜５３より以遠が周辺領域として規定されている。   A light-shielding frame light-shielding film 53 that defines the frame area of the image display area 10a is provided on the counter substrate 20 side in parallel with the inside of the seal area where the sealing material 52 is disposed. However, part or all of the frame light shielding film 53 may be provided as a built-in light shielding film on the TFT array substrate 10 side. There is a peripheral area located around the image display area 10a. In other words, particularly in the present embodiment, when viewed from the center of the TFT array substrate 10, the distance from the frame light shielding film 53 is defined as the peripheral region.

周辺領域のうち、シール材５２が配置されたシール領域の外側に位置する領域には、データ線駆動回路１０１及び外部回路接続端子１０２がＴＦＴアレイ基板１０の一辺に沿って設けられている。走査線駆動回路１０４は、この一辺に隣接する２辺に沿い、且つ、額縁遮光膜５３に覆われるようにして設けられている。更に、このように画像表示領域１０ａの両側に設けられた二つの走査線駆動回路１０４間をつなぐため、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０の残る一辺に沿い、且つ、額縁遮光膜５３に覆われるようにして複数の配線１０５が設けられている。   A data line driving circuit 101 and an external circuit connection terminal 102 are provided along one side of the TFT array substrate 10 in a region located outside the sealing region in which the sealing material 52 is disposed in the peripheral region. The scanning line driving circuit 104 is provided along two sides adjacent to the one side so as to be covered with the frame light shielding film 53. Further, in order to connect the two scanning line driving circuits 104 provided on both sides of the image display area 10 a in this way, a plurality of the pixel lines are covered along the remaining side of the TFT array substrate 10 and covered with the frame light shielding film 53. Wiring 105 is provided.

対向基板２０の４つのコーナー部には、両基板間の上下導通端子として機能する上下導通材１０６が配置されている。他方、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０にはこれらのコーナー部に対向する領域において上下導通端子が設けられている。これらにより、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０と対向基板２０との間で電気的な導通をとることができる。   Vertical conductive members 106 functioning as vertical conductive terminals between the two substrates are disposed at the four corners of the counter substrate 20. On the other hand, the TFT array substrate 10 is provided with vertical conduction terminals in a region facing these corner portions. Thus, electrical conduction can be established between the TFT array substrate 10 and the counter substrate 20.

図１及び図２において、保護基板２００は、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０から見て対向基板２０の反対側で対向基板２０に対向配置されており、対向基板２０の外形より大きい外形を有している。保護基板２００は、ガラス基板等の光透過性を有する基板であり、後述する保護部材３００を形成する際に紫外線を透過させる。尚、保護基板２００は、液晶パネル等の電気光学装置に汎用される基板であれば如何なる基板でもよく、例えばガラス基板を用いることが可能であり、保護基板２００の材質に応じて保護部材３００を形成する手段、より具体的には保護部材３００を構成する材料及びこの材料を硬化させる硬化方法も便宜選択可能である。   1 and 2, the protective substrate 200 is disposed opposite to the counter substrate 20 on the opposite side of the counter substrate 20 when viewed from the TFT array substrate 10, and has an outer shape larger than the outer shape of the counter substrate 20. The protective substrate 200 is a substrate having optical transparency such as a glass substrate, and transmits ultraviolet rays when a protective member 300 described later is formed. The protective substrate 200 may be any substrate as long as it is used for electro-optical devices such as a liquid crystal panel. For example, a glass substrate can be used, and the protective member 300 is provided depending on the material of the protective substrate 200. Means for forming, more specifically, a material constituting the protective member 300 and a curing method for curing the material can be selected for convenience.

ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び保護基板２００の夫々は、平面的に見て対向基板２０の外形より大きい外形を有しているため、平面的に見て対向基板２０の外側におけるＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び保護基板２００が相互に重なる領域において、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び保護基板２００間に隙間が生じている。ここで、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び保護基板２００の外形は、対向基板２０の外形より大きければよく、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び保護基板２００の相互の大小関係は何ら限定されるものではない。ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び保護基板２００の外形が、これら基板間に位置する対向基板２０の外形より大きいことにより、平面的に見て対向基板２０の外側において、図２に示すようにＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び保護基板２００間に隙間が確保されていることになる。   Since each of the TFT array substrate 10 and the protective substrate 200 has an outer shape larger than the outer shape of the counter substrate 20 in plan view, the TFT array substrate 10 and the protective substrate outside the counter substrate 20 in plan view. In the region where 200 overlaps with each other, a gap is generated between the TFT array substrate 10 and the protective substrate 200. Here, the outer shape of the TFT array substrate 10 and the protective substrate 200 only needs to be larger than the outer shape of the counter substrate 20, and the magnitude relationship between the TFT array substrate 10 and the protective substrate 200 is not limited at all. Since the outer shapes of the TFT array substrate 10 and the protective substrate 200 are larger than the outer shape of the counter substrate 20 located between these substrates, the TFT array substrate 10 is formed outside the counter substrate 20 in plan view as shown in FIG. In addition, a gap is secured between the protective substrates 200.

保護部材３００は、平面的に見て画像表示領域１０ａを囲むようにシール領域に沿って延在されている。より具体的には、保護部材３００は、平面的に見て対向基板２０の外側におけるＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び保護基板２００が相互に重なる領域において、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び保護基板２００間の隙間に設けられており、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０の各辺に沿って画像表示領域１０ａを囲むように設けられている。保護部材３００によれば、シール材５２によってシールされた画像表示領域１０ａ内に水分等の異物が浸入することを効果的に低減でき、対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０を含む液晶装置１の周囲全体において液晶装置本体を封止することが可能である。したがって、シール材５２によってシールされた液晶層５０及び液晶層５０を含む画素部が、水分等の装置外部から進入してきた異物によって劣化することを低減でき、シール材５２のみによって装置内部をシールする場合に比べて液晶装置１の高い表示特性を長期間に亘って維持できる。尚、保護部材３００は、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０の４辺のうち少なくとも１辺に沿って設けられていればよく、液晶装置本体内に侵入する異物を低減する効果は相応に得られる。   The protection member 300 extends along the seal region so as to surround the image display region 10a when seen in a plan view. More specifically, the protection member 300 is provided in a gap between the TFT array substrate 10 and the protection substrate 200 in a region where the TFT array substrate 10 and the protection substrate 200 overlap each other outside the counter substrate 20 when seen in a plan view. The image display region 10 a is provided along each side of the TFT array substrate 10. According to the protective member 300, it is possible to effectively reduce the intrusion of foreign matters such as moisture into the image display area 10 a sealed by the sealing material 52, and the periphery of the liquid crystal device 1 including the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10. It is possible to seal the liquid crystal device main body as a whole. Accordingly, the liquid crystal layer 50 sealed by the sealing material 52 and the pixel portion including the liquid crystal layer 50 can be prevented from being deteriorated by foreign matters entering from the outside of the device such as moisture, and the inside of the device is sealed only by the sealing material 52. Compared to the case, the high display characteristics of the liquid crystal device 1 can be maintained over a long period of time. The protective member 300 only needs to be provided along at least one of the four sides of the TFT array substrate 10, and the effect of reducing foreign matter entering the liquid crystal device body can be obtained accordingly.

図１及び図２において、保護部材３００は、流動性を有する封止材料がＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び保護基板２００間の隙間に充填された後、この充填された封止材料を硬化させることによって形成されている。保護部材３００は、流動性を有する未硬化の紫外線硬化樹脂等の封止材料をＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び保護基板２００間の隙間に浸透圧を利用して充填可能である。したがって、封止材料は、基板間に隙間なく充填される。光透過性を有する保護基板２００は紫外線を透過させるため、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び保護基板２００間の隙間に充填された封止材料に保護基板２００を介して紫外線を照射することによって封止材料を硬化させることができ、容易に保護部材３００を形成することが可能である。   1 and 2, the protective member 300 is formed by filling a sealing material having fluidity in a gap between the TFT array substrate 10 and the protective substrate 200 and then curing the filled sealing material. Has been. The protective member 300 can be filled with a sealing material such as an uncured ultraviolet curable resin having fluidity in the gap between the TFT array substrate 10 and the protective substrate 200 using osmotic pressure. Therefore, the sealing material is filled with no gap between the substrates. Since the light-transmitting protective substrate 200 transmits ultraviolet light, the sealing material filled in the gap between the TFT array substrate 10 and the protective substrate 200 is irradiated with ultraviolet light through the protective substrate 200 to apply the sealing material. The protective member 300 can be easily formed.

対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０を含む液晶装置本体は、保護基板２００によって保護されている。より具体的には、対向基板２０に保護基板２００が対向配置されているため、保護基板２００が対向基板２０に割れ及び欠け等の機械的な損傷が生じないように液晶装置本体に加わる衝撃或いは応力から液晶装置本体を保護する。   The liquid crystal device main body including the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10 is protected by a protective substrate 200. More specifically, since the protective substrate 200 is disposed opposite to the counter substrate 20, the protective substrate 200 may be subjected to an impact applied to the liquid crystal device main body so that the counter substrate 20 does not cause mechanical damage such as cracking and chipping. Protects the liquid crystal device body from stress.

保護部材３００は、平面的に見て対向基板２０の外側において、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び保護基板２００間の隙間に設けられているため、割れ或いは欠けが生じやすい対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０の縁を保護できる。したがって、実装ケースに液晶装置本体を実装乃至収容することなく、液晶装置の損傷を低減できる。言い換えれば、保護基板２００が実装ケースの機能を有することにより、実装ケースがなくても液晶装置１の機械的強度を高めることが可能である。加えて、液晶装置１によれば、実装ケースが不要となるため、液晶装置１を構成する部品に要するコスト、及び液晶装置１を製造する際の製造コストを低減できる。   Since the protective member 300 is provided in the gap between the TFT array substrate 10 and the protective substrate 200 on the outside of the counter substrate 20 as viewed in a plan view, the protective member 300 is easily cracked or chipped. The edge can be protected. Therefore, damage to the liquid crystal device can be reduced without mounting or housing the liquid crystal device body in the mounting case. In other words, since the protective substrate 200 has the function of a mounting case, it is possible to increase the mechanical strength of the liquid crystal device 1 without the mounting case. In addition, according to the liquid crystal device 1, since a mounting case is not necessary, the cost required for components constituting the liquid crystal device 1 and the manufacturing cost when manufacturing the liquid crystal device 1 can be reduced.

図２において、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０上には、画素スイッチング用のＴＦＴや走査線、データ線等の配線が形成された後の画素電極９ａ上に、配向膜が形成されている。他方、対向基板２０上には、対向電極２１の他、格子状又はストライプ状の遮光膜２３、更には最上層部分に配向膜が形成されている。液晶層５０は、例えば一種又は数種類のネマティック液晶を混合した液晶からなり、これら一対の配向膜間で、所定の配向状態をとる。   In FIG. 2, on the TFT array substrate 10, an alignment film is formed on the pixel electrode 9a after the pixel switching TFT, the scanning line, the data line and the like are formed. On the other hand, on the counter substrate 20, in addition to the counter electrode 21, a lattice-shaped or striped light-shielding film 23 and an alignment film are formed on the uppermost layer portion. The liquid crystal layer 50 is made of, for example, a liquid crystal in which one or several types of nematic liquid crystals are mixed, and takes a predetermined alignment state between the pair of alignment films.

ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０は例えば石英基板、ガラス基板、シリコン基板等の透明基板である。対向基板２０もＴＦＴアレイ基板１０と同様に透明基板である。   The TFT array substrate 10 is a transparent substrate such as a quartz substrate, a glass substrate, or a silicon substrate. The counter substrate 20 is also a transparent substrate like the TFT array substrate 10.

ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０には、画素電極９ａが設けられており、その上側には、ラビング処理等の所定の配向処理が施された配向膜が設けられている。例えば、画素電極９ａはＩＴＯ（Indium Tin Oxide）膜などの透明導電性膜からなり、配向膜は、ポリイミド膜などの有機膜からなる。   The TFT array substrate 10 is provided with a pixel electrode 9a, and an alignment film on which a predetermined alignment process such as a rubbing process has been performed is provided above the pixel electrode 9a. For example, the pixel electrode 9a is made of a transparent conductive film such as an ITO (Indium Tin Oxide) film, and the alignment film is made of an organic film such as a polyimide film.

対向基板２０には、その全面に渡って対向電極２１が設けられており、その下側には、ラビング処理等の所定の配向処理が施された配向膜２２が設けられている。対向電極２１は例えば、ＩＴＯ膜などの透明導電性膜からなる。配向膜２２は、ポリイミド膜などの有機膜からなる。   A counter electrode 21 is provided on the entire surface of the counter substrate 20, and an alignment film 22 subjected to a predetermined alignment process such as a rubbing process is provided below the counter electrode 21. The counter electrode 21 is made of a transparent conductive film such as an ITO film. The alignment film 22 is made of an organic film such as a polyimide film.

このように構成され、画素電極９ａと対向電極２１とが対面するように配置されたＴＦＴアレイ基板１０と対向基板２０との間には、液晶層５０が形成される。液晶層５０は、画素電極９ａからの電界が印加されていない状態で配向膜により所定の配向状態をとる。   A liquid crystal layer 50 is formed between the TFT array substrate 10 and the counter substrate 20 that are configured as described above and are arranged so that the pixel electrode 9a and the counter electrode 21 face each other. The liquid crystal layer 50 takes a predetermined alignment state by the alignment film in a state where an electric field from the pixel electrode 9a is not applied.

尚、図１及び図２に示したＴＦＴアレイ基板１０上には、これらのデータ線駆動回路１０１、走査線駆動回路１０４等の駆動回路に加えて、画像信号線上の画像信号をサンプリングしてデータ線に供給するサンプリング回路、複数のデータ線に所定電圧レベルのプリチャージ信号を画像信号に先行して各々供給するプリチャージ回路、製造途中や出荷時の当該電気光学装置の品質、欠陥等を検査するための検査回路等を形成してもよい。   1 and 2, on the TFT array substrate 10, in addition to the drive circuits such as the data line drive circuit 101 and the scanning line drive circuit 104, the image signal on the image signal line is sampled to obtain data. Sampling circuit that supplies lines, precharge circuit that supplies pre-charge signals of a predetermined voltage level to multiple data lines in advance of image signals, inspection of quality, defects, etc. of the electro-optical device during production or shipment An inspection circuit or the like may be formed.

以上説明したように、本実施形態に係る電気光学装置によれば、示性能の低下を抑制できることに加え、電気光学装置の機械的強度を高めることができ、信頼性に優れた液晶装置１等の電気光学装置を提供できる。加えて、本実施形態に係る電気光学装置によれば、部品コスト及び製造コストを低減できるため、信頼性に優れた電気光学装置を低コストで提供できる。   As described above, according to the electro-optical device according to the present embodiment, it is possible to increase the mechanical strength of the electro-optical device in addition to suppressing the deterioration of the display performance, and the liquid crystal device 1 having excellent reliability. The electro-optical device can be provided. In addition, according to the electro-optical device according to the present embodiment, the component cost and the manufacturing cost can be reduced, so that an electro-optical device with excellent reliability can be provided at low cost.

＜１−２：電気光学装置の変形例＞
次に、図３及び図４を参照しながら、本実施形態に係る電気光学装置の変形例を説明する。図３は、本例の電気光学装置の構成を示す平面図であり、図４は、図３のＩＶ−ＩＶ´線断面図である。以下では、上述の液晶装置１と共通する部分に共通の参照符号を付し、共通する部分の詳細な説明を省略する。 <1-2: Modified Example of Electro-Optical Device>
Next, a modification of the electro-optical device according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. FIG. 3 is a plan view showing the configuration of the electro-optical device of this example, and FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line IV-IV ′ of FIG. In the following, parts common to the above-described liquid crystal device 1 are denoted by common reference numerals, and detailed description of common parts is omitted.

図３において、本例の液晶装置４００は、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び対向基板２０を含む液晶装置本体、保護基板２００ａ、並びに保護基板２００ａを保護するフレーム部２１０を有している。   3, the liquid crystal device 400 of this example includes a liquid crystal device main body including the TFT array substrate 10 and the counter substrate 20, a protective substrate 200a, and a frame portion 210 that protects the protective substrate 200a.

フレーム部２１０は、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び対向基板２０を含む液晶装置本体、並びに保護基板２００ａの周縁部が嵌合される開口部２１４を有しており、機械的強度が他の部分より相対的に弱い、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び対向基板２０を含む装置本体の周縁部、並びに保護基板２００ａの周縁部を保護する。本例では、平面的に見て液晶装置４００の互いに対向する両端に一つずつ、即ち一対のフレーム部２１０が設けられているが、フレーム部２１０の個数、形状及び液晶装置本体に対する配設位置は本例の配設位置等に限定されるものではなく、液晶装置本体及び保護基板２００を保護できればよい。   The frame portion 210 has a liquid crystal device main body including the TFT array substrate 10 and the counter substrate 20 and an opening 214 into which the peripheral edge portion of the protective substrate 200a is fitted, so that the mechanical strength is relative to other portions. The peripheral portion of the device body including the TFT array substrate 10 and the counter substrate 20 and the peripheral portion of the protective substrate 200a, which are weak to the protection, are protected. In this example, one pair, ie, a pair of frame portions 210 are provided at opposite ends of the liquid crystal device 400 when viewed in plan, but the number and shape of the frame portions 210 and the arrangement positions with respect to the liquid crystal device body. Is not limited to the arrangement position of this example and the like, as long as the liquid crystal device main body and the protective substrate 200 can be protected.

保護基板２００ａは、保護基板２００ａの周縁部に形成されており、且つ保護基板２００ａをフレーム部２１０に固定するための固定手段の一部を構成する穴部２１２を有している。   The protective substrate 200a is formed at the peripheral edge of the protective substrate 200a and has a hole 212 that constitutes a part of a fixing means for fixing the protective substrate 200a to the frame portion 210.

穴部２１２は、平面形状が矩形状である保護基板２００ａの四隅の夫々に設けられている。対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０を含む液晶装置本体、並びに保護基板２００ａが開口部２１４に嵌合された際には、穴部２１２及び穴部２１２に挿入された螺子２１１によって、対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０を含む液晶装置本体、並びに保護基板２００ａがフレーム部２１０に堅固に固定される。   The hole 212 is provided at each of the four corners of the protective substrate 200a having a rectangular planar shape. When the liquid crystal device main body including the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10 and the protective substrate 200a are fitted into the opening 214, the counter substrate 20 and the screw 211 inserted into the hole 212 and the hole 212 are used. The liquid crystal device main body including the TFT array substrate 10 and the protective substrate 200a are firmly fixed to the frame portion 210.

したがって、対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０に穴部を形成することなく、対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０を含む液晶装置本体をフレーム部２１０に簡便に固定できる。特に、対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０がガラス基板である場合には、割れを生じさせることなくこれら基板に穴部を形成することは困難である上、これら基板に穴部を形成する手間を要する。したがって、保護基板２００ａに設けられた穴部２１２によれば、対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０に穴部を形成する手間を要することなく、確実にフレーム部２１０に液晶装置本体を固定できる。   Therefore, the liquid crystal device body including the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10 can be easily fixed to the frame portion 210 without forming holes in the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10. In particular, when the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10 are glass substrates, it is difficult to form holes in these substrates without causing cracks, and it is troublesome to form holes in these substrates. Cost. Therefore, according to the hole portion 212 provided in the protective substrate 200a, the liquid crystal device main body can be securely fixed to the frame portion 210 without the need for forming the hole portion in the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10.

図４において、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０、及び保護基板２００ａの夫々の周縁部は、フレーム部２１０に設けられた開口部２１４に嵌合されており、基板に加わる衝撃等の機械的応力によってＴＦＴアレイ基板１０、及び保護基板２００ａに損傷が生じないように保護されている。   In FIG. 4, the peripheral portions of the TFT array substrate 10 and the protective substrate 200a are fitted into the openings 214 provided in the frame portion 210, and the TFT array substrate is subjected to mechanical stress such as impact applied to the substrate. 10 and the protective substrate 200a are protected so as not to be damaged.

割れ及び欠けが生じ易いＴＦＴアレイ基板１０、及び保護基板２００ａの夫々の周縁部が一体的にフレーム部２１０の開口部２１４に嵌合されるため、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び保護基板２００ａに生じ易い割れ及び欠け等の損傷を効果的に低減でき、例えば、液晶装置４００を取り扱う際のハンドリング時において対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０を含む液晶装置本体、並びに保護基板２００ａに割れ及び欠けが生じることを低減できる。   Since the peripheral portions of the TFT array substrate 10 and the protective substrate 200a that are likely to be cracked and chipped are integrally fitted into the openings 214 of the frame portion 210, the TFT array substrate 10 and the protective substrate 200a are easily cracked. And damage such as chipping can be effectively reduced. For example, when handling the liquid crystal device 400, the liquid crystal device body including the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10 and the protective substrate 200a are cracked and chipped. Can be reduced.

＜１−３：電気光学装置の製造方法＞
次に、図５を参照しながら、本実施形態に係る電気光学装置の製造方法を説明する。図５は、本実施形態に係る電気光学装置の製造方法のうち主要な工程を順を追って示した工程断面図である。 <1-3: Manufacturing Method of Electro-Optical Device>
Next, a method for manufacturing the electro-optical device according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a process cross-sectional view sequentially showing main processes in the method of manufacturing the electro-optical device according to the present embodiment.

図５（ａ）において、対向基板２０の外形より大きい外形を有するＴＦＴアレイ基板１０を対向基板２０に対向配置すると共に、対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０間に挟持される液晶層５０により表示が行われる画像表示領域１０ａの周囲に沿ったシール領域でシール材５２を介して対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０を相互に貼り合わせ、液晶装置本体を形成しておく。その後、対向基板２０の外形より大きい外形を有する保護基板２００をＴＦＴアレイ基板１０から見て対向基板２０の反対側で対向基板２０に対向配置する。この段階で、後の工程で保護部材３００を配設可能な空間、即ち保護基板２００及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０間に生じる隙間が確保される。   In FIG. 5A, the TFT array substrate 10 having an outer shape larger than the outer shape of the counter substrate 20 is disposed opposite to the counter substrate 20, and the display is performed by the liquid crystal layer 50 sandwiched between the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10. The counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10 are bonded to each other through a sealing material 52 in a sealing region along the periphery of the image display region 10a to be formed, thereby forming a liquid crystal device body. Thereafter, the protective substrate 200 having an outer shape larger than the outer shape of the counter substrate 20 is disposed opposite to the counter substrate 20 on the opposite side of the counter substrate 20 when viewed from the TFT array substrate 10. At this stage, a space where the protective member 300 can be disposed in a later process, that is, a gap generated between the protective substrate 200 and the TFT array substrate 10 is secured.

次に、図５（ｂ）において、平面的に見て対向基板２０の外側におけるＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び保護基板２００が相互に重なる領域において、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び保護基板２００間の隙間に流動性を有する封止材料３００ａを充填する。流動性を有する封止材料３００ａは、浸透圧を利用してＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び保護基板２０間の隙間に隙間なく充填される。   Next, in FIG. 5B, in a region where the TFT array substrate 10 and the protective substrate 200 overlap each other on the outside of the counter substrate 20 as viewed in a plan view, fluidity is provided in the gap between the TFT array substrate 10 and the protective substrate 200. The sealing material 300a having The sealing material 300a having fluidity is filled in the gap between the TFT array substrate 10 and the protective substrate 20 without any gap by using osmotic pressure.

次に、図５（ｃ）において、保護基板２００を介して封止材料３００ａに紫外線を照射することによって、封止材料３００ａを硬化させる。これにより、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び保護基板２００間の隙間を封止する保護部材３００を形成し、図１及び図２に示した液晶装置１が形成される。したがって、図５（ｂ）及び図５（ｃ）に示した工程が本発明の第３の発明に係る「保護部材を形成する工程」の一例を構成する。   Next, in FIG. 5C, the sealing material 300 a is cured by irradiating the sealing material 300 a with ultraviolet rays through the protective substrate 200. Thereby, the protective member 300 that seals the gap between the TFT array substrate 10 and the protective substrate 200 is formed, and the liquid crystal device 1 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is formed. Therefore, the steps shown in FIGS. 5B and 5C constitute an example of the “step of forming a protective member” according to the third aspect of the present invention.

尚、上述の変形例に示した液晶装置４００を形成する場合には、保護基板２００の代わりに穴部２１２が形成された保護基板２００ａを用い、図５（ａ）乃至図５（ｃ）と同様の工程を経た後、図５（ｄ）に示すようにフレーム部２１０が有する開口部２１４に液晶装置本体を嵌合させ、固定すればよい。   When the liquid crystal device 400 shown in the above-described modification is formed, a protective substrate 200a in which a hole 212 is formed is used instead of the protective substrate 200, and FIGS. 5A to 5C are used. After the same process, the liquid crystal device body may be fitted and fixed to the opening 214 of the frame part 210 as shown in FIG.

このように本実施形態に係る電気光学装置の製造方法によれば、本実施形態に係る電気光学装置と同様に、表示性能の低下を抑制できることに加え、電気光学装置に加わる衝撃等から電気光学装置を保護でき、信頼性に優れた電気光学装置を製造できる。加えて、本実施形態に係る電気光学装置によれば、部品コスト及び製造コストを低減できるため、信頼性に優れた電気光学装置を低コストで製造できる。   As described above, according to the method of manufacturing the electro-optical device according to the present embodiment, in addition to being able to suppress a decrease in display performance, similarly to the electro-optical device according to the present embodiment, the electro-optical device is affected by an impact applied to the electro-optical device. The device can be protected and an electro-optical device having excellent reliability can be manufactured. In addition, according to the electro-optical device according to the present embodiment, the component cost and the manufacturing cost can be reduced, so that an electro-optical device with excellent reliability can be manufactured at a low cost.

（第２実施形態）
＜２−１：電気光学装置の構成＞
次に、図６及び図７を参照しながら本発明の第２の発明に係る電気光学装置の実施形態を説明する。図６は、本発明の第２の発明に係る「第２基板」の一例であるＴＦＴアレイ基板１０をその上に形成された各構成要素と共に本発明の第２の発明に係る「第１基板」の一例である対向基板２０の側から見た電気光学装置の平面図であり、図７は、図６のＶＩＩ−ＶＩＩ´断面図である。本実施形態では、電気光学装置の一例として、第１実施形態と同様に駆動回路内蔵型のＴＦＴアクティブマトリクス駆動方式の液晶装置６００を例に挙げる。本実施形態に係る電気光学装置は、第１保護基板５００及び第２保護基板７００、並びにこれら保護基板間の隙間に設けられた保護部材３００を備えている点で第１実施形態に係る液晶装置１と相違する。 (Second Embodiment)
<2-1: Configuration of electro-optical device>
Next, an embodiment of an electro-optical device according to the second invention of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 6 shows a TFT array substrate 10 as an example of a “second substrate” according to the second invention of the present invention, together with each component formed thereon, the “first substrate” according to the second invention of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line VII-VII ′ of FIG. 6. In the present embodiment, as an example of the electro-optical device, a TFT active matrix driving type liquid crystal device 600 with a built-in driving circuit is exemplified as in the first embodiment. The electro-optical device according to the present embodiment includes the first protective substrate 500, the second protective substrate 700, and a protective member 300 provided in a gap between the protective substrates, and the liquid crystal device according to the first embodiment. 1 and different.

図６及び図７において、第１保護基板５００は、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０から見て対向基板２０の反対側で対向基板２０に対向配置されており、対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０の夫々の外形より大きい外形を有している。第１保護基板５００は、ガラス基板等の光透過性を有する透明基板であり、その平面形状は矩形状である。   6 and 7, the first protective substrate 500 is disposed opposite to the counter substrate 20 on the opposite side of the counter substrate 20 when viewed from the TFT array substrate 10, and the outer shape of each of the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10. Has a larger profile. The first protective substrate 500 is a transparent substrate having optical transparency such as a glass substrate, and the planar shape thereof is a rectangular shape.

第２保護基板７００は、対向基板２０から見てＴＦＴアレイ基板１０の反対側でＴＦＴアレイ基板１０に対向配置されており、対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０の夫々の外形より大きい外形を有している。第２保護基板７００は、第１保護基板５００と同様にガラス基板等の光透過性を有する透明基板であり、その平面形状は矩形状である。   The second protective substrate 700 is disposed opposite to the TFT array substrate 10 on the opposite side of the TFT array substrate 10 when viewed from the counter substrate 20, and has an outer shape larger than the outer shape of each of the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10. ing. The second protective substrate 700 is a transparent substrate having light transmissivity, such as a glass substrate, like the first protective substrate 500, and its planar shape is rectangular.

第１保護基板５００及び第２保護基板７００の夫々は、対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０の夫々の外形より大きい外形を有しているため、平面的に見て対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０の外側における第１保護基板５００及び第２保護基板７００が相互に重なる領域において、第１保護基板５００及び第２保護基板７００間に隙間が確保される。   Since each of the first protective substrate 500 and the second protective substrate 700 has an outer shape larger than the outer shape of each of the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10, the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10 are viewed in plan view. A gap is secured between the first protective substrate 500 and the second protective substrate 700 in a region where the first protective substrate 500 and the second protective substrate 700 overlap each other.

第１保護基板５００及び第２保護基板７００の外形は、対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０の外形より大きければよく、第１保護基板５００及び第２保護基板７００の外形の相互の大小関係は何ら限定されるものではない。第１保護基板５００及び第２保護基板７００の外形が、これら基板間に位置する液晶装置本体の外形より大きいことにより、平面的に見て対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０を含む液晶装置本体の外側において、第１保護基板５００及び第２保護基板７００間に隙間が確保される。   The outer shapes of the first protective substrate 500 and the second protective substrate 700 may be larger than the outer shapes of the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10, and what is the size relationship between the outer shapes of the first protective substrate 500 and the second protective substrate 700? It is not limited. Since the outer shape of the first protective substrate 500 and the second protective substrate 700 is larger than the outer shape of the liquid crystal device body located between these substrates, the liquid crystal device body including the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10 in plan view is seen. Outside, a gap is secured between the first protective substrate 500 and the second protective substrate 700.

保護部材３００は、平面的に見て対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０の外側における第１保護基板５００及び第２保護基板７００が相互に重なる領域において、第１保護基板５００及び第２保護基板７００間の隙間に設けられている。保護部材３００は、第１実施形態に係る液晶装置１と同様にシール領域の周囲全体に沿って液晶装置本体全体を封止するように形成されており、シール材５２によってシールされた画像表示領域１０ａ内に水分等の異物が浸入することを効果的に低減し、対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０を含む液晶装置６００の周囲全体において液晶装置本体を封止することが可能である。したがって、シール材５２によってシールされた液晶層５０及び液晶層５０を含む画素部が、水分等の装置外部から進入してきた異物によって劣化することを低減でき、シール材５２のみによって装置内部をシールする場合に比べて液晶装置１の高い表示特性を長期間に亘って維持できる。尚、保護部材３００は、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０の４辺のうち少なくとも１辺に沿って設けられていればよく、液晶装置本体内に侵入する異物を低減する効果は相応に得られる。   The protective member 300 includes a first protective substrate 500 and a second protective substrate 700 in a region where the first protective substrate 500 and the second protective substrate 700 overlap each other outside the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10 in plan view. It is provided in the gap between them. Similar to the liquid crystal device 1 according to the first embodiment, the protection member 300 is formed so as to seal the entire liquid crystal device main body along the entire periphery of the seal region, and the image display region sealed by the seal material 52. It is possible to effectively reduce the intrusion of foreign substances such as moisture into the liquid crystal 10a, and the liquid crystal device body can be sealed around the entire periphery of the liquid crystal device 600 including the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10. Accordingly, the liquid crystal layer 50 sealed by the sealing material 52 and the pixel portion including the liquid crystal layer 50 can be prevented from being deteriorated by foreign matters entering from the outside of the device such as moisture, and the inside of the device is sealed only by the sealing material 52. Compared to the case, the high display characteristics of the liquid crystal device 1 can be maintained over a long period of time. The protective member 300 only needs to be provided along at least one of the four sides of the TFT array substrate 10, and the effect of reducing foreign matter entering the liquid crystal device body can be obtained accordingly.

保護部材３００は、流動性を有する封止材料が第１保護基板５００及び第２保護基板７００間の隙間に充填された後、この充填された封止材料を硬化させることによって形成されている。保護部材３００は、流動性を有する未硬化の紫外線硬化樹脂等の封止材料をＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び保護基板２００間の隙間に浸透圧を利用して充填された後、充填された封止材料を硬化させることによって形成される。したがって、保護部材３００は、基板間に隙間なく充填されている。光透過性を有する第１保護基板５００及び第２保護基板７００を介して封止材料に紫外線を透過させることによって、容易に保護部材３００が形成される。尚、外部回路接続端子１０２及び外部回路の電気的接続は、別途接続用配線等の接続手段を保護部材３００の外側に設けることによって可能である。   The protective member 300 is formed by filling a sealing material having fluidity in a gap between the first protective substrate 500 and the second protective substrate 700 and then curing the filled sealing material. The protective member 300 is filled with a sealing material such as an uncured ultraviolet curable resin having fluidity in the gap between the TFT array substrate 10 and the protective substrate 200 using osmotic pressure, and then filled. Is formed by curing. Therefore, the protective member 300 is filled with no gap between the substrates. By allowing the sealing material to transmit ultraviolet light through the first protective substrate 500 and the second protective substrate 700 having optical transparency, the protective member 300 is easily formed. The external circuit connection terminal 102 and the external circuit can be electrically connected by separately providing connection means such as connection wiring outside the protective member 300.

対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０を含む液晶装置本体が第１保護基板５００及び第２保護基板７００によって保護されている。より具体的には、対向基板２０に第１保護基板５００が対向配置され、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０に第２保護基板７００が対向配置されていることによって、液晶装置本体に加わる衝撃或いは応力によって対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０に割れ及び欠け等の機械的な損傷が生じることを低減できる。   The liquid crystal device main body including the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10 is protected by the first protective substrate 500 and the second protective substrate 700. More specifically, the first protective substrate 500 is disposed opposite to the counter substrate 20, and the second protective substrate 700 is disposed opposite to the TFT array substrate 10, so that the counter substrate is affected by an impact or stress applied to the liquid crystal device body. 20 and the TFT array substrate 10 can be reduced from mechanical damage such as cracks and chips.

保護部材３００は、平面的に見て対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０の外側において、第１保護基板５００及び第２保護基板７００間の隙間に設けられているため、割れ或いは欠けが生じやすい第１保護基板５００及び第２保護基板７００の縁を保護できる。したがって、実装ケースに液晶装置本体を実装乃至収容することなく、機械的強度が高められた第１保護基板５００及び第２保護基板７００によって液晶装置本体の損傷を低減できる。言い換えれば、第１保護基板５００及び第２保護基板７００が実装ケースの機能を有することにより、実装ケースがなくても液晶装置６００の機械的強度を高めることが可能である。加えて、液晶装置６００によれば、実装ケースが不要となるため、液晶装置６００を構成する部品に要するコスト、及び液晶装置６００を製造する際の製造コストを低減できる。   Since the protective member 300 is provided in the gap between the first protective substrate 500 and the second protective substrate 700 on the outer side of the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10 in plan view, the protective member 300 is easily cracked or chipped. The edges of the first protective substrate 500 and the second protective substrate 700 can be protected. Therefore, damage to the liquid crystal device main body can be reduced by the first protective substrate 500 and the second protective substrate 700 with increased mechanical strength without mounting or housing the liquid crystal device main body in the mounting case. In other words, since the first protective substrate 500 and the second protective substrate 700 have the function of a mounting case, the mechanical strength of the liquid crystal device 600 can be increased without the mounting case. In addition, according to the liquid crystal device 600, since a mounting case is not required, the cost required for components constituting the liquid crystal device 600 and the manufacturing cost when manufacturing the liquid crystal device 600 can be reduced.

以上、本実施形態に係る電気光学装置によれば、表示性能の低下を抑制できることに加え、電気光学装置の機械的強度を高めることができ、信頼性に優れた電気光学装置を提供できる。加えて、本実施形態に係る電気光学装置によれば、部品コスト及び製造コストを低減できるため、信頼性に優れた電気光学装置を低コストで提供できる。   As described above, according to the electro-optical device according to the present embodiment, it is possible to increase the mechanical strength of the electro-optical device in addition to suppressing a decrease in display performance, and to provide an electro-optical device with excellent reliability. In addition, according to the electro-optical device according to the present embodiment, the component cost and the manufacturing cost can be reduced, so that an electro-optical device with excellent reliability can be provided at low cost.

＜２−２：電気光学装置の変形例＞
次に、図８及び図９を参照しながら本実施形態に係る電気光学装置の変形例を説明する。図８は、本例の電気光学装置の構成を示す平面図であり、図９は、図８のＩＸ−ＩＸ´断面図である。 <2-2: Modified Example of Electro-Optical Device>
Next, a modification of the electro-optical device according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 8 is a plan view showing the configuration of the electro-optical device of this example, and FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line IX-IX ′ of FIG.

図８及び図９において、本例の液晶装置８００は、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び対向基板２０を含む液晶装置本体、並びに第１保護基板５００ａ及び第２保護基板７００を保護するフレーム部２１０ａを有している。   8 and 9, the liquid crystal device 800 of this example includes a liquid crystal device body including the TFT array substrate 10 and the counter substrate 20, and a frame portion 210a that protects the first protective substrate 500a and the second protective substrate 700. ing.

フレーム部２１０ａは、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び対向基板２０を含む液晶装置本体、並びに第１保護基板５００ａ及び第２保護基板７００の周縁部が嵌合される開口部２１４ａを有しており、機械的強度が他の部分より相対的に弱い、ＴＦＴアレイ基板１０及び対向基板２０を含む装置本体の周縁部、並びに第１保護基板５００ａ及び第２保護基板７００の周縁部を保護する。本例では、平面的に見て液晶装置８００の互いに対向する両端に一つずつ、即ち一対のフレーム部２１０ａが設けられているが、フレーム部２１０ａの個数、形状及び液晶装置本体に対する配設位置等は本例の場合に限定されるものではなく、液晶装置本体及び保護基板を保護できればよい。   The frame portion 210a has a liquid crystal device main body including the TFT array substrate 10 and the counter substrate 20, and an opening 214a into which the peripheral portions of the first protective substrate 500a and the second protective substrate 700 are fitted. The peripheral portion of the device main body including the TFT array substrate 10 and the counter substrate 20 and the peripheral portions of the first protective substrate 500a and the second protective substrate 700, which are relatively weaker than other portions, are protected. In this example, one pair, that is, a pair of frame portions 210a is provided at opposite ends of the liquid crystal device 800 as viewed in plan, but the number and shape of the frame portions 210a and the arrangement positions with respect to the liquid crystal device body. Etc. are not limited to the case of this example, and should just protect a liquid crystal device main body and a protective substrate.

第１保護基板５００ａは、保護基板５００ａの周縁部に形成されており、且つ保護基板５００ａをフレーム部２１０ａに固定するための固定手段の一部を構成する穴部２１２ａを有している。   The first protective substrate 500a is formed on the peripheral edge of the protective substrate 500a, and has a hole 212a that constitutes a part of a fixing means for fixing the protective substrate 500a to the frame portion 210a.

穴部２１２ａは、平面形状が矩形状である第１保護基板５００ａの四隅の夫々に設けられている。対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０を含む液晶装置本体、並びに第１保護基板５００ａ及び第２保護基板７００が開口部２１４ａに嵌合された際には、穴部２１２ａ及び穴部２１２ａに挿入された螺子２１１によって、対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０を含む液晶装置本体、並びに第１保護基板５００ａがフレーム部２１０ａに堅固に固定される。   The hole 212a is provided at each of the four corners of the first protective substrate 500a having a rectangular planar shape. When the liquid crystal device main body including the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10, and the first protective substrate 500a and the second protective substrate 700 are fitted into the opening 214a, they are inserted into the hole 212a and the hole 212a. The main body of the liquid crystal device including the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10 and the first protective substrate 500a are firmly fixed to the frame portion 210a by the screws 211.

したがって、対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０に穴部を形成することなく、対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０を含む液晶装置本体をフレーム部２１０ａに簡便に固定できる。特に、対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０がガラス基板である場合には、割れを生じさせることなくこれら基板に穴部を形成することは困難である上、これら基板に穴部を形成する手間を要する。したがって、第１保護基板５００ａに設けられた穴部２１２ａによれば、対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０に穴部を形成する手間を要することなく、確実にフレーム部２１０ａに液晶装置本体を固定できる。   Therefore, the liquid crystal device body including the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10 can be easily fixed to the frame portion 210a without forming holes in the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10. In particular, when the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10 are glass substrates, it is difficult to form holes in these substrates without causing cracks, and it is troublesome to form holes in these substrates. Cost. Therefore, according to the hole portion 212a provided in the first protective substrate 500a, the liquid crystal device main body can be securely fixed to the frame portion 210a without the need for forming the hole portion in the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10. .

尚、本例では、第１保護基板５００ａにのみ穴部を設ける場合を例に挙げているが、フレーム部２１０ａに液晶装置本体を固定するための穴部は、第２保護基板７００に設けられていてもよいし、第１保護基板５００ａ及び第２保護基板７００の両方の保護基板に設けられていてもよい。穴部２１２ａを第１保護基板５００ａ及び第２保護基板７００の両方に設けた場合には、第１保護基板５００ａ及び第２保護基板７００の一方に穴部を設ける場合に比べて、より強固に液晶装置本体をフレーム部２１０ａに固定できる。   In this example, a case where a hole is provided only in the first protective substrate 500a is taken as an example, but a hole for fixing the liquid crystal device main body to the frame portion 210a is provided in the second protective substrate 700. It may be provided on both of the first protective substrate 500a and the second protective substrate 700. When the hole portion 212a is provided in both the first protective substrate 500a and the second protective substrate 700, the hole portion 212a is stronger than when the hole portion is provided in one of the first protective substrate 500a and the second protective substrate 700. The liquid crystal device main body can be fixed to the frame portion 210a.

したがって、割れ及び欠けが生じ易いガラス基板を第１保護基板５００ａ及び第２保護基板７００に用いた場合でも、これら保護基板に割れ及び欠け等の損傷が生じることを効果的に低減できる。本例の液晶装置８００によれば、例えば、液晶装置８００を取り扱う際のハンドリング時において対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０を含む液晶装置本体、並びに第１保護基板５００ａ及び第２保護基板７００に割れ及び欠けが生じることを低減できる。   Therefore, even when a glass substrate that is easily cracked and chipped is used for the first protective substrate 500a and the second protective substrate 700, it is possible to effectively reduce the occurrence of damage such as cracks and chips on the protective substrate. According to the liquid crystal device 800 of the present example, the liquid crystal device body including the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10 and the first protective substrate 500a and the second protective substrate 700 are cracked during handling when the liquid crystal device 800 is handled. And occurrence of chipping can be reduced.

＜２−３：電気光学装置の製造方法＞
次に、図１０を参照しながら本実施形態に係る電気光学装置の製造方法を説明する。図１０は、本実施形態に係る電気光学装置の製造方法のうち主要な工程を順を追って示した工程断面図である。 <2-3: Method for Manufacturing Electro-Optical Device>
Next, a method for manufacturing the electro-optical device according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is a process cross-sectional view sequentially illustrating main processes in the method of manufacturing the electro-optical device according to this embodiment.

図１０（ａ）において、対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０間に挟持される液晶層５０により表示が行われる画像表示領域１０ａの周囲に沿ったシール領域でシール材５２を介して対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０を相互に貼り合わせ、液晶装置本体を形成しておく。その後、対向基板２０の外形より大きい外形を有する第１保護基板５００をＴＦＴアレイ基板１０から見て対向基板２０の反対側で対向基板２０に対向配置する。これにと同時に、或いは相前後してＴＦＴアレイ基板１０の外形より大きい外形を有する第２保護基板７００を対向基板２０から見てＴＦＴアレイ基板１０の反対側でＴＦＴアレイ基板１０に対向配置する。   In FIG. 10A, the counter substrate 20 and the sealing substrate 52 are interposed in the seal region along the periphery of the image display region 10a where the display is performed by the liquid crystal layer 50 sandwiched between the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10. The TFT array substrates 10 are bonded together to form a liquid crystal device body. Thereafter, the first protective substrate 500 having an outer shape larger than the outer shape of the counter substrate 20 is disposed opposite to the counter substrate 20 on the opposite side of the counter substrate 20 when viewed from the TFT array substrate 10. At the same time or before and after, the second protective substrate 700 having an outer shape larger than the outer shape of the TFT array substrate 10 is disposed opposite to the TFT array substrate 10 on the opposite side of the TFT array substrate 10 when viewed from the counter substrate 20.

この段階で、後の工程で保護部材３００を配設可能な空間、即ち第１保護基板５００及び第２保護基板７００間に生じる隙間が確保される。   At this stage, a space in which the protective member 300 can be disposed in a later process, that is, a gap generated between the first protective substrate 500 and the second protective substrate 700 is secured.

次に、図１０（ｂ）において、平面的に見て対向基板２０及びＴＦＴアレイ基板１０を含む液晶装置本体の外側における第１保護基板５００及び第２保護基板７００が相互に重なる領域において、第１保護基板５００及び第２保護基板７００間の隙間に流動性を有する封止材料３００ａを充填する。流動性を有する封止材料３００ａは、浸透圧を利用して第１保護基板５００及び第２保護基板７００間の隙間に隙間なく充填される。   Next, in FIG. 10B, in a region where the first protective substrate 500 and the second protective substrate 700 overlap each other outside the liquid crystal device main body including the counter substrate 20 and the TFT array substrate 10 in plan view. A gap between the first protective substrate 500 and the second protective substrate 700 is filled with a fluid sealing material 300a. The sealing material 300a having fluidity is filled in the gap between the first protective substrate 500 and the second protective substrate 700 without any gap using osmotic pressure.

次に、図１０（ｃ）において、第１保護基板５００及び第２保護基板７００を介して封止材料３００ａに紫外線を照射することによって、封止材料３００ａを硬化させる。これにより、保護部材３００を形成され、液晶装置６００が形成される。   Next, in FIG. 10C, the sealing material 300 a is cured by irradiating the sealing material 300 a with ultraviolet rays through the first protective substrate 500 and the second protective substrate 700. Thereby, the protective member 300 is formed, and the liquid crystal device 600 is formed.

尚、上述の変形例に示した液晶装置８００を形成する場合には、第１保護基板５００の変わりに穴部２１２ａが形成された第１保護基板５００ａを用い、図１０（ａ）乃至図１０（ｃ）と同様の工程を経た後、図１０（ｄ）に示すようにフレーム部２１０ａが有する開口部２１４ａに液晶装置本体を嵌合させ、固定すればよい。   When the liquid crystal device 800 shown in the above-described modification is formed, the first protective substrate 500a in which the hole 212a is formed is used instead of the first protective substrate 500, and FIGS. After passing through the same process as (c), the liquid crystal device main body may be fitted and fixed to the opening 214a of the frame part 210a as shown in FIG. 10 (d).

このように本実施形態に係る電気光学装置の製造方法によれば、本実施形態に係る電気光学装置と同様に、表示性能の低下を抑制できることに加え、電気光学装置の機械的強度を高めることができ、信頼性に優れた電気光学装置を製造できる。加えて、本実施形態に係る電気光学装置の製造方法によれば、部品コスト及び製造コストを低減できるため、信頼性に優れた電気光学装置を低コストで製造できる。   As described above, according to the method of manufacturing the electro-optical device according to the present embodiment, in addition to suppressing the deterioration in display performance, similarly to the electro-optical device according to the present embodiment, the mechanical strength of the electro-optical device is increased. Thus, an electro-optical device with excellent reliability can be manufactured. In addition, according to the method for manufacturing the electro-optical device according to the present embodiment, the component cost and the manufacturing cost can be reduced, so that an electro-optical device having excellent reliability can be manufactured at a low cost.

＜３：電子機器＞
次に、図１１を参照しながら上述した液晶装置を各種の電子機器に適用する場合について説明する。本実施形態に係る電子機器は、上述の液晶装置をライトバルブとして用いたプロジェクタである。図１１は、上述した液晶装置を備えた電子機器の一例であるプロジェクタの構成例を示す平面図である。図１１に示すように、プロジェクタ１１００内部には、ハロゲンランプ等の白色光源からなるランプユニット１１０２が設けられている。このランプユニット１１０２から射出された投射光は、ライトガイド１１０４内に配置された４枚のミラー１１０６および２枚のダイクロイックミラー１１０８によってＲＧＢの３原色に分離され、各原色に対応するライトバルブとしての液晶パネル１１１０Ｒ、１１１０Ｂおよび１１１０Ｇに入射される。 <3: Electronic equipment>
Next, the case where the liquid crystal device described above is applied to various electronic devices will be described with reference to FIG. The electronic apparatus according to the present embodiment is a projector that uses the liquid crystal device described above as a light valve. FIG. 11 is a plan view illustrating a configuration example of a projector that is an example of an electronic apparatus including the above-described liquid crystal device. As shown in FIG. 11, a projector 1100 includes a lamp unit 1102 made up of a white light source such as a halogen lamp. The projection light emitted from the lamp unit 1102 is separated into three primary colors of RGB by four mirrors 1106 and two dichroic mirrors 1108 arranged in the light guide 1104, and serves as a light valve corresponding to each primary color. The light enters the liquid crystal panels 1110R, 1110B, and 1110G.

液晶パネル１１１０Ｒ、１１１０Ｂおよび１１１０Ｇの構成は、上述した液晶装置と同等であり、画像信号処理回路から供給されるＲ、Ｇ、Ｂの原色信号でそれぞれ駆動されるものである。これらの液晶パネルによって変調された光は、ダイクロイックプリズム１１１２に３方向から入射される。このダイクロイックプリズム１１１２においては、ＲおよびＢの光が９０度に屈折する一方、Ｇの光が直進する。したがって、各色の画像が合成される結果、投射レンズ１１１４を介して、スクリーン等にカラー画像が投写されることとなる。   The configurations of the liquid crystal panels 1110R, 1110B, and 1110G are the same as those of the liquid crystal device described above, and are driven by R, G, and B primary color signals supplied from the image signal processing circuit. The light modulated by these liquid crystal panels enters the dichroic prism 1112 from three directions. In this dichroic prism 1112, R and B light is refracted at 90 degrees, while G light travels straight. Accordingly, as a result of the synthesis of the images of the respective colors, a color image is projected onto the screen or the like via the projection lens 1114.

ここで、各液晶パネル１１１０Ｒ、１１１０Ｂおよび１１１０Ｇによる表示像について着目すると、液晶パネル１１１０Ｇによる表示像は、液晶パネル１１１０Ｒ、１１１０Ｂによる表示像に対して左右反転される。尚、液晶パネル１１１０Ｒ、１１１０Ｂおよび１１１０Ｇには、ダイクロイックミラー１１０８によって、Ｒ、Ｇ、Ｂの各原色に対応する光が入射するので、カラーフィルタを設ける必要はない。   Here, paying attention to the display images by the liquid crystal panels 1110R, 1110B, and 1110G, the display image by the liquid crystal panel 1110G is horizontally reversed with respect to the display images by the liquid crystal panels 1110R and 1110B. Since light corresponding to the primary colors R, G, and B is incident on the liquid crystal panels 1110R, 1110B, and 1110G by the dichroic mirror 1108, it is not necessary to provide a color filter.

尚、本実施形態に係る電子機器によれば、上述の液晶装置を具備してなるので、高品位の表示が可能であり、且つ信頼性に優れた投射型表示装置、携帯電話、電子手帳、ワードプロセッサ、ビューファインダ型又はモニタ直視型のビデオテープレコーダ、ワークステーション、テレビ電話、ＰＯＳ端末、タッチパネルなどの各種電子機器を実現できる。   In addition, according to the electronic apparatus according to the present embodiment, since the above-described liquid crystal device is provided, a high-quality display is possible, and a highly reliable projection display device, mobile phone, electronic notebook, Various electronic devices such as a word processor, a viewfinder type or a monitor direct-view type video tape recorder, a workstation, a videophone, a POS terminal, and a touch panel can be realized.

第１実施形態に係る電気光学装置の平面図である。1 is a plan view of an electro-optical device according to a first embodiment. 図１のＨ−Ｈ´線断面図である。It is the HH 'sectional view taken on the line of FIG. 第１実施形態に係る電気光学装置の変形例の構成を示した平面図である。FIG. 6 is a plan view showing a configuration of a modification of the electro-optical device according to the first embodiment. 図３のＩＶ−ＩＶ´線断面図である。FIG. 4 is a sectional view taken along line IV-IV ′ in FIG. 3. 第１実施形態に係る電気光学装置の製造方法の主要な工程を順を追って示した工程断面図である。FIG. 5 is a process cross-sectional view sequentially illustrating main processes of the method for manufacturing the electro-optical device according to the first embodiment. 第２実施形態に係る電気光学装置の平面図である。FIG. 6 is a plan view of an electro-optical device according to a second embodiment. 図６のＶＩＩ−ＶＩＩ´線断面図である。It is the VII-VII 'sectional view taken on the line of FIG. 第２実施形態に係る電気光学装置の変形例の構成を示した平面図である。FIG. 10 is a plan view illustrating a configuration of a modification of the electro-optical device according to the second embodiment. 図８のＩＸ−ＩＸ´断面図である。It is IX-IX 'sectional drawing of FIG. 第２実施形態に係る電気光学装置の製造方法の主要な工程を順を追って示した工程断面図である。FIG. 10 is a process cross-sectional view sequentially illustrating main processes of a method for manufacturing an electro-optical device according to a second embodiment. 本実施形態に係る電気光学装置を備えた電子機器の一例を示す平面図である。FIG. 6 is a plan view illustrating an example of an electronic apparatus including the electro-optical device according to the embodiment.

符号の説明Explanation of symbols

１、４００、６００、８００・・・液晶装置、１０・・・ＴＦＴアレイ基板、２０・・・対向基板、２００、２００ａ・・・保護基板、２１０、２１０ａ・・・フレーム部、２１４、２１４ａ・・・開口部、３００・・・保護部材、５００、５００ａ・・・第１保護基板、７００・・・第２保護基板   DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1,400,600,800 ... Liquid crystal device, 10 ... TFT array substrate, 20 ... Opposite substrate, 200, 200a ... Protection substrate, 210, 210a ... Frame part, 214, 214a ..Opening part, 300 ... protective member, 500, 500a ... first protective substrate, 700 ... second protective substrate

Claims (9)

第１基板と、
前記第１基板に対向配置されており、平面的に見て前記第１基板の外形より大きい外形を有する第２基板と、
前記第１基板及び前記第２基板間に挟持された電気光学物質と、
平面的に見て前記電気光学物質により表示が行われる表示領域の周囲に設けられており、前記第１基板及び前記第２基板を相互に貼り合わせるシール部と、
前記第２基板から見て前記第１基板の反対側で前記第１基板に対向配置されており、前記第１基板の外形より大きい外形を有する保護基板と、
平面的に見て前記第１基板の外側における前記第２基板及び前記保護基板が相互に重なる領域において、前記第２基板及び前記保護基板の隙間に設けられた保護部材と
を備えたことを特徴とする電気光学装置。 A first substrate;
A second substrate disposed opposite to the first substrate and having an outer shape larger than that of the first substrate in plan view;
An electro-optic material sandwiched between the first substrate and the second substrate;
A seal portion that is provided around a display area where the display is performed by the electro-optic material in plan view, and bonds the first substrate and the second substrate to each other;
A protective substrate disposed opposite to the first substrate on the opposite side of the first substrate as viewed from the second substrate and having an outer shape larger than the outer shape of the first substrate;
A protective member provided in a gap between the second substrate and the protective substrate in a region where the second substrate and the protective substrate overlap each other outside the first substrate in a plan view. An electro-optical device. 前記第２基板、及び前記保護基板の夫々の周縁部が嵌合される開口部を有するフレーム部を備え、
前記保護基板は、前記保護基板の周縁部に形成されており、且つ前記保護基板を前記フレーム部に固定するための固定手段の一部を構成する穴部を有していること
を特徴とする請求項１に記載の電気光学装置。 A frame portion having an opening into which a peripheral edge of each of the second substrate and the protective substrate is fitted;
The protective substrate is formed at a peripheral portion of the protective substrate, and has a hole portion that constitutes a part of a fixing means for fixing the protective substrate to the frame portion. The electro-optical device according to claim 1. 第１基板と、
前記第１基板に対向配置された第２基板と、
前記第１基板及び前記第２基板間に挟持された電気光学物質と、
平面的に見て前記電気光学物質により表示が行われる表示領域の周囲に設けられており、前記第１基板及び前記第２基板を相互に貼り合わせるシール部と、
前記第２基板から見て前記第１基板の反対側で前記第１基板に対向配置されており、平面的に見て前記第１基板及び前記２基板の夫々の外形より大きい外形を有する第１保護基板と、
前記第１基板から見て前記第２基板の反対側で前記第２基板に対向配置されており、平面的に見て前記第１基板及び前記第２基板の夫々の外形より大きい外形を有する第２保護基板と、
平面的に見て前記第１基板及び前記第２基板の外側における前記第１保護基板及び前記第２保護基板が相互に重なる領域において、前記第１保護基板及び前記第２保護基板の隙間に設けられた保護部材と
を備えたことを特徴とする電気光学装置。 A first substrate;
A second substrate disposed opposite the first substrate;
An electro-optic material sandwiched between the first substrate and the second substrate;
A seal portion that is provided around a display area where the display is performed by the electro-optic material in plan view, and bonds the first substrate and the second substrate to each other;
The first substrate is opposite to the first substrate as viewed from the second substrate and is opposed to the first substrate, and has a first outer shape that is larger than the outer shapes of the first substrate and the second substrate when viewed in plan. A protective substrate;
The second substrate is disposed opposite to the second substrate as viewed from the first substrate, and has a larger outer shape than the first substrate and the second substrate as viewed in plan. Two protective substrates;
Provided in a gap between the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate in a region where the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate overlap each other outside the first substrate and the second substrate in plan view. An electro-optical device comprising: a protective member. 前記第１保護基板及び前記第２保護基板の夫々の周縁部が嵌合される開口部を有するフレーム部を備え、
前記第１保護基板及び前記第２保護基板の少なくとも一方の保護基板は、前記一方の保護基板の周縁部に形成されており、且つ前記一方の保護基板を前記フレーム部に固定するための固定手段の一部を構成する穴部を有していること
を特徴とする請求項３に記載の電気光学装置。 A frame portion having an opening into which each peripheral edge portion of the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate is fitted;
At least one of the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate is formed on a peripheral portion of the one protective substrate, and fixing means for fixing the one protective substrate to the frame portion The electro-optical device according to claim 3, further comprising a hole portion that constitutes a part of the electro-optical device. 前記保護部材は、平面的に見て前記表示領域を囲むように延在されていること
を特徴とする請求項１から４の何れか一項に記載の電気光学装置。 5. The electro-optical device according to claim 1, wherein the protection member extends so as to surround the display region in a plan view. 前記保護部材は、流動性を有する封止材料が前記隙間に充填された後、該充填された封止材料を硬化させることによって形成されていること
を特徴とする請求項１から５の何れか一項に記載の電気光学装置。 6. The protective member according to claim 1, wherein the protective member is formed by curing the filled sealing material after the sealing material having fluidity is filled in the gap. The electro-optical device according to one item. 第１基板の外形より大きい外形を有する第２基板を前記第１基板に対向配置すると共に、前記第１基板及び前記第２基板間に挟持される電気光学物質により表示が行われる表示領域の周囲に沿ったシール領域で前記第１基板及び前記第２基板を相互に貼り合わせるシール部を形成する工程と、
前記第１基板の外形より大きい外形を有する保護基板を前記第２基板から見て前記第１基板の反対側で前記第１基板に対向配置する工程と、
平面的に見て前記第１基板の外側における前記第２基板及び前記保護基板が相互に重なる領域において、前記第２基板及び前記保護基板の隙間に流動性を有する封止材料を充填した後、該充填された封止材料を硬化させることによって、前記第２基板及び前記保護基板の隙間を封止する保護部材を形成する工程と
を備えたことを特徴とする電気光学装置の製造方法。 A second substrate having an outer shape larger than the outer shape of the first substrate is disposed opposite to the first substrate, and the periphery of the display area where display is performed by the electro-optical material sandwiched between the first substrate and the second substrate Forming a seal portion for bonding the first substrate and the second substrate to each other in a seal region along the line;
Disposing a protective substrate having an outer shape larger than the outer shape of the first substrate to face the first substrate on the opposite side of the first substrate when viewed from the second substrate;
After filling the gap between the second substrate and the protective substrate with a fluid sealing material in a region where the second substrate and the protective substrate overlap each other outside the first substrate in plan view, And a step of forming a protective member for sealing a gap between the second substrate and the protective substrate by curing the filled sealing material. 第１基板及び第２基板間に挟持される電気光学物質により表示が行われる表示領域の周囲に沿ったシール領域で前記第１基板及び前記第２基板を相互に貼り合わせるシール部を形成する工程と、
前記第１基板及び第２基板の夫々の外形より大きい外形を有する第１保護基板を、前記第２基板から見て前記第１基板の反対側で前記第１基板に対向配置する工程と、
前記第１基板及び前記２基板の夫々の外形より大きい外形を有する第２保護基板を、前記第１基板から見て前記第２基板の反対側で前記第２基板に対向配置する工程と、
平面的に見て前記第１基板及び前記第２基板の外側における前記第１保護基板及び前記第２保護基板が相互に重なる領域において、前記第１保護基板及び前記第２保護基板の隙間に流動性を有する封止材料を充填した後、該充填された封止材料を硬化させることによって、前記第１保護基板及び前記第２保護基板の隙間を封止する保護部材を形成する工程と
を備えたことを特徴とする電気光学装置の製造方法。 Forming a seal portion for bonding the first substrate and the second substrate to each other in a seal region along a periphery of a display region where display is performed by an electro-optical material sandwiched between the first substrate and the second substrate; When,
Disposing a first protective substrate having an outer shape larger than the outer shape of each of the first substrate and the second substrate opposite to the first substrate on the opposite side of the first substrate when viewed from the second substrate;
Disposing a second protective substrate having an outer shape larger than the outer shape of each of the first substrate and the second substrate opposite to the second substrate on the opposite side of the second substrate when viewed from the first substrate;
In a region where the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate overlap each other outside the first substrate and the second substrate in plan view, the fluid flows into the gap between the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate. Forming a protective member that seals a gap between the first protective substrate and the second protective substrate by filling the sealing material having a property and then curing the filled sealing material. A method for manufacturing an electro-optical device. 請求項１から６の何れか一項に記載の電気光学装置を具備してなること
を特徴とする電子機器。 An electronic apparatus comprising the electro-optical device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.
JP2006012045A 2006-01-20 2006-01-20 Electrooptical device, and method for manufacturing the same, and electronic apparatus Withdrawn JP2007193160A (en)

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
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JP2009122655A (en) * 2007-10-24 2009-06-04 Seiko Instruments Inc Display device
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