Apparatus for defining orientation of an alignment layer in a pixel unit of an LCD device and the method thereof

A method for determining orientation of an alignment layer in a pixel unit of an LCD device, the pixel unit including a glass substrate having an outer surface provided with the alignment layer which has been treated by photolithographic masking and rubbing operations, the method comprising the steps of:

• (i) spraying a predetermined amount of steam onto the alignment layer, thereby forming a plurality of water drops or water layer on an outer surface of the alignment layer;
• (ii) providing light beams onto the alignment layer;
• (iii) fetching an image data formed on the alignment layer by virtue of light reflection and refraction of the water drops hanging on the alignment layer;
• (iv) inspecting the image data to determine the orientation of the alignment layer;
• and
• (v) providing the data to an operator.

An apparatus for determining orientation of an alignment layer in a pixel unit of an LCD device, the pixel unit including a glass substrate having an outer surface provided with the alignment layer which has been treated by photolithographic masking and rubbing operation, the apparatus comprising:

• a conveyor belt for feeding the alignment layer;
• a steam-generating device disposed adjacent to and above the conveyor belt, and including
• a cooling element adapted to lower temperature of the alignment layer in such a manner to form a plurality of water drops or water layer on an outer surface of the alignment layer,
• a humidity controller adapted to increase the temperature of the alignment layer in such a manner to form said plurality of water drops on the outer surface of the alignment layer, and
• at least two partitions disposed at opposite sides of said cooling element and cooperatively defining a cooling chamber facing a passing route of said conveyor belt;
• a light source for providing light beams into said water drops on the alignment layer;
• and
• an image catcher for fetching an image data formed on the alignment layer by virtue of light reflection and refraction of said water drops hanging on the alignment layer so as to determine the orientation of the alignment layer.